Abendrot Colt DAC ReviewKharma

November 16, 2024 Comments Off on Abendrot Colt DAC ReviewKharma

https://www.monoandstereo.com/abendrot-colt-dac-review/

Every one of my reviews starts with a straightforward yet profoundly simple premise: “If it’s interesting to me, it’ll be interesting to you”, with my pedantic brain focusing on the concentration of quality while keeping the enthusiasm unbottled.

Regardless of technology, novel ideas, or price tag, many modern DACs can still sound harsh and one-dimensional. This is often closely associated with streamlined manufacturing, which Abendrot escapes by all means, drawing its design choices from an impressive track record working with some of the most renowned studios worldwide.

Pro-Ject Detailed Turntable Setup Tips 

November 16, 2024 Comments Off on Pro-Ject Detailed Turntable Setup Tips 

PS Audio AirLens and DirectStream DAC Mk2 $7,999 Review

November 15, 2024 Comments Off on PS Audio AirLens and DirectStream DAC Mk2 $7,999 Review

The remote for the Mk2 was not available, so a PS Audio system remote had been tweaked to run the DAC. A note with the packaging instructed the owner to use two buttons that were reprogrammed to give full access to the Mk2’s features. I found the remote to work seamlessly with the DAC, but it is rather cluttered. As the manufacturing lag subsides, purchasers can request the Mk2’s remote be sent to them gratis. Even though the remote buttons are backlit, they are small. It would be nice to have a smaller, simpler working remote for basic operations of its DACs or preamps.

The MK2’s notable features include Pre-emphasis, which allows the user to counter recording techniques used on some compact discs which emphasize high frequencies. The owner can select On, Off, or Auto. The default setting is Auto. Other options allow inputs to be named, the ground on each input or output lifted, the shield or shell of an XLR interconnect lifted, and Polarity inverted. I was particularly interested in the Shell Lift feature, which the Owner’s Reference states may slightly improve the sound. There are many fine points to operation that can be studied by viewing or downloading the Owner’s Reference found at the PS Audio website.

Grado Signature HP100 SE Open Air Review

November 15, 2024 Comments Off on Grado Signature HP100 SE Open Air Review


The Grado Signature HP100 SE Open Air Headphone is a true audiophile reference headphone and as such it is not forgiving of source nor electronics, yet the musicality and presentation make for an absolutely pleasurable experience, in fact, the Grados seem to lend something to every genre of music whether it was Classical, Folk, Rock, Jazz, Lounge or even stark New Wave like The B52s. I found myself racing through my playlist looking for new challenges, but felt it redundant to catalog every piece I heard as the experience was the same, massive soundstage, blistering speed, savage impact, epic dynamics, and luscious musicality. Like all Grado headphones in my experience, the HP100 SE is extremely efficient meaning though you want an amplifier of a sound quality commensurate with the Grados power is not an issue, in fact, you most likely will want something with a low gain option and a significantly low noise floor to take full advantage of them.

Master Tapes by Birdbox Records

November 15, 2024 Comments Off on Master Tapes by Birdbox Records

Focal Scala Utopia Evo Loudspeaker Review

November 15, 2024 Comments Off on Focal Scala Utopia Evo Loudspeaker Review

PSB Speakers M4U TWM—True Wireless Micro Planar Earphones $199 Review

November 14, 2024 Comments Off on PSB Speakers M4U TWM—True Wireless Micro Planar Earphones $199 Review

https://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2024/9/1/psb-speakers-m4u-twm-true-wireless-micro-planar-earphones

In conclusion, these PSB earbuds feature a unique dual driver, a planar magnetic transducer paired with a dynamic transducer, as far as I know, a first for a true-wireless component. This combination results in a sweet and natural sound. At USD 199, they are priced well. If you’re into the tech that comes with earbuds at that price, these PSB earbuds may not be for you. However, if you’re looking for a more analog sound, comfortable, and natural-sounding earbuds that can be used anywhere, even in the gym, with buttons instead of those dreadful touch sensors, then these PSB earbuds are your best bet.

TAGA Harmony Nostalgic TH-12 Floorstanding Loudpeakers Review

November 14, 2024 Comments Off on TAGA Harmony Nostalgic TH-12 Floorstanding Loudpeakers Review

https://www.stereonet.com/au/reviews/taga-harmony-nostalgic-th-12-floorstanding-loudpeakers-review

TAGA Harmony’s Nostalgic TH12 is an interesting-looking loudspeaker with real sonic ability and charm, especially on well-recorded programme material. Whether you like the styling is a personal matter, but there’s no denying that a pair of these will quickly become the focal point of your listening room. Overall, it’s a solid thumbs up for this design, which offers very good value for money—especially when you factor in the bundled stands. Do try to audition a pair if you get the chance.

How vinyl touches the heart

November 14, 2024 Comments Off on How vinyl touches the heart

2024 Capital Audio Fest

November 14, 2024 Comments Off on 2024 Capital Audio Fest