Audiophilepure

Listening to vocals was equally impressive. One weekend I was listening to Melody Gardot’s outstanding recording of “Love Me Like a River Does” from her Worrisome Heart (Decca (UMO) Qobuz). I was startled, by the immediacy and presence of images, then by the resolution and complexity of her voice. Both the Vimberg Tonda D and the Lawrence Audio Labs LM1 sounded fabulous; they sang like a canary; her voice had utmost transparency and resolution with freedom from grain. Music flowed with detailed information without being analytical. Often, solid-state’s superb transparency can be accompanied by an analytical sonic aftertaste but not here. 

The Karan Acoustics POWERa Stereo amplifier is an astounding achievement. It sets the benchmark even higher for solid-state amplifiers. It has it all; power and grace. Where it is expensive. If you’re in the market for a top tier reference amplifier (at any price), do yourself a favor and go listen to the POWERa Stereo. Highly recommended!

https://www.soundandvision.com/content/zeppelin-pro-ultimate-wireless-speaker-audiophiles-who-value-form-and-function

While I was loving how the Zeppelin Pro handled female vocals, I needed to be sure it could perform as well with male tonalities. I queued up Jelly Roll’s “Liar” and was not disappointed. His vocals start out close-miked with a warm intimate sound, balanced by the Spanish-inspired acoustic guitar. This is the warmth and richness that runs through many Bowers & Wilkins speaker tunings, and it does not disappoint. The bass and kick drum jump in halfway through the first verse, gearing up for the full band in the explosive chorus. The barely perceptible doubled lead vocals add a depth to the chorus and bridge, and once again, the Zeppelin Pro shows off its ability to handle details with ease. Its ability to maintain the most subtle features of a mix at all volumes is exemplary.

https://www.soundandvision.com/content/music-youtube

The music selections offered below are worth a look and listen despite the occasional adverts. You might even find yourself investigating music genres you’ve never considered before. But try to listen with the best sound available to you, whether that’s a TV with decent internal audio (rare, but they do exist), a good soundbar, or your home theater.

Most of the selections here are classical, including opera arias without subtitles. But even if you think you don’t like such music, give these link a fair try. You may have never before heard opera with visuals. Only once have I sat through a live opera from beginning to end. It was years ago on a trip to Vienna. The opera was Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot, not the most accessible choice for a newcomer. But I wasn’t bored, and standing-room tickets were an irresistible $1. Try to find that today!