Frequently asked questions about general hi-fi stuff including various types of equipment, technical concepts and advice for getting the best results.
There is some risk associated with buying anything, whether old or new. I would argue that it can be even riskier buying modern, firmware-driven, plastic, made-in-China equipment that will likely fail within 5 years and at that point be completely unrepairable. As long as you mitigate your risk, buying older hi-fi gear should not be […]
A smart question to ask, belt-drive turntables are much cheaper to make. Even small manufacturers can tool up to make a basic belt-drive turntable. You could just about make your own at home and that’s how many small manufacturers start out. Direct-drive turntable manufacture is quite different though. It requires considerably more engineering and capital
Why are there so many new belt-drive turntables? Read More »
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 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 audio gear, 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 mystical horse-$hit.
