Frequently asked questions about general hi-fi stuff including various types of equipment, technical concepts and advice for getting the best results.
It depends on the system, sometimes yes, usually no. The sound pressure levels achievable with a hi-fi system come down to two parameters: amplifier power output and speaker sensitivity. Low-power amplifiers can create realistic sound pressures and dynamics, but only when partnered with sensitive speakers. This all comes down to simple physics. A 20W or […]
Are low-power amplifiers acceptable in hi-fi systems? Read More »
That depends on the circumstances. Properly installing and setting up a cartridge with the right hardware and precisely calibrating overhang, azimuth, tracking force, anti-skate, VTA, arm lifter position and height using the correct tools is never a 5-minute job. It can take significant time with a complex deck/installation but no matter what the scenario, doing
Where people imply they possess magical powers in terms of designing/repairing/improving audio gear, I advise you to slowly back away from the ‘guru’ and run when safe to do so! Magic Audio gurus are generally associated with pseudoscience and nonsense, often claiming magical powers through ‘secret’ wiring skills, ‘special’ ultra-bad construction techniques and dollops of
I’d like you to consider something: we put men on the Moon in 1969, more than 50 years ago. There are three key elements here: Take a moment to process that, and no, it wasn’t a hoax. Do you reckon we could do it now..? I seriously have my doubts, but either way, it tells
How can vintage audio gear and formats sound so good? Read More »
As of 2023, it’s either magnetic tape running at 15 IPS, an excellent vinyl playback system, or the best hi-resolution digital files played back through seriously good DACs. People are often upset to learn that their favourite digital files were originally recorded onto analog tape, but there is more obscuring of the provenance of digital
What’s the highest fidelity, highest resolution music source I can access at home? Read More »
Mostly its overall condition, control functionality and service history. It might sound obvious, but the physical condition of a piece of second-hand hi-fi gear tells us a lot about how it’s been looked after. Gear that has been well cared for is almost always a better bet than gear that’s been neglected, other things being
What should I look for when buying second-hand hi-fi gear? Read More »
Yes, though this answer somewhat depends on what you consider decent and affordable! Those looking for new high-performance machines for under $1,000 will find very little of interest. High-performance turntabling can’t be done for $1K new, spend a little more though and things start to improve. If you broaden your horizons to include pre-owned equipment,
Are there any decent, affordable new turntables? Read More »
