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. These two parameters are inextricably linked. Low-power amplifiers can create realistic sound pressures and dynamics, but only when partnered with sensitive speakers. This all comes down […]
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 not a 5-minute job. It can take significant time with a complex deck/installation, and doing this work correctly requires time
I advise you to slowly back away from any guru implying they possess magical powers in relation to designing/repairing/improving/servicing audio gear, and run when safe to do so! 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 mystical horse-$hit. Goodness
I’d like you to consider something: we put men on the Moon in 1969, more than 55 years ago. There are three key points here: Take a moment to process that. Do you reckon we could do it now..? I seriously have my doubts, but either way, it tells you a great deal about the
How can vintage audio gear and formats sound so good? Read More »
As of 2025, it’s still either magnetic tape running at 15 IPS, an excellent vinyl playback system, or hi-resolution digital files played back through serious 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 files than
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 »
Power can be a real issue in older houses, so here are a few suggestions. The first might seem obvious, but have everything checked and tested by a qualified electrician. This can identify and rectify wiring and ground issues, broken outlets etc. Power outlet testers like this one allow end-users to identify miswired outlets, ground
What do you recommend in terms of power supplies for hi-fi gear in older premises? Read More »
