Steven Stone rounds up three ultra-budget audio componentsโthe Fosi ZD3 DAC, iFi Zen Phono 3, and FX Audio R07Plusโthat rival gear costing far more. After blind tests and strategic upgrades, Stone finds the ZD3 indistinguishable from elite DACs, the Zen Phono nearly noise-free, and the R07Plus a neutral powerhouse across headphones.
While the world argues over streaming platforms and sound quality, one billionaire vanished into orbit to hear music unburdened by gravity. No tech shared, no guests allowed.
Rob Schryer and his photographer sidekick Karim Sรฉnoussi spend a jazzy afternoon at 2xHD Fidelio, where Renรฉ Laflamme pushes audio boundaries with vintage gear to capture raw musical emotion.
Jonson claims he’s off the audio gear merry-go-round. His wife and son donโt believe him, but this time he insists itโs real. After 20 years of perfecting the โgear gameโ and the โroom game,โ Jonson is now turning his focus to the elusive โmind gameโโthe deeply personal aspect of audio shaped by perception and mental…
A new study reveals that low-frequency sounds, notably 63 Hz bass, can cause widespread hearing loss. Bass waves forcefully penetrate the cochlea and bypass earplugs via bone conduction, severely undermining traditional hearing protection.
There are myriad products that claim to clean audio power, but which matter most? Industry experts rank dedicated lines, power conditioners, and wall outlets as top upgrades, while opinions diverge on fuses and power cables.
Howard Milstein calls the Musician Pegasus II R2R DAC a โgiant killer,โ rivaling pricier models with its smooth mids, deep bass, and spacious soundstage. In NOS mode, it delivers an organic, natural presentation, making it a standout choice. Milstein hails it as a must-hear for audiophiles seeking top-tier musicality.
NYC reinvents Japanโs jazz kissa tradition, transforming vinyl listening into a high-fidelity, immersive experience for true audiophiles.
Electrical noise sabotaging your sound? A new virtual ground system wipes hum and EMI from even the cleanest rigs, revealing musicโs full dynamic depth.
From vet school to vinyl sanctum, one manโs obsession birthed Bliss AcousticsโOttawaโs home-based haven where gear vanishes and music takes over.
Tom Gibbs discusses why any self-respecting audiophile should dispense with copper wires for streaming and opt instead for the glorious sound that can be achieved with a fiber optic connection.
The Vinyl Beat digs into some more reissues that fly under the radar.
The Orpheus Chrono-Heliophonic Aural Vessel isnโt just a sound systemโitโs an audiophileโs cosmic destiny. In a world where skepticism falters before prestige, only the foolish admit they canโt perceive its brilliance.
Gradoโs new Signature S950 blends Brazilian Walnut warmth with a 52mm S driver for a relaxed, natural soundโdetachable cables and luxe build round out the $2,195 flagship.
Monitor Audioโs $5199/pair Gold 100 6G standmounts impressed Robert Schryer with their weight, luxurious finish, and superb clarity. With deep bass, rich detail, and effortless musical flow, they felt completeโno sub needed.
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