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Loudspeaker Designer Albert Von Schweikert Passed
Founder & Chief Designer of Von Schweikert Research / Von Schweikert Audio
Albert Von Schweikert (March 13, 1945 � May 29, 2020) was born within South America in 1945 to a US military officer and the daughter of one of the principal engineers of the Panama Canal. The Von Schweikert family moved to Heidelberg, Germany while he was still quite young. Living in Europe until he was 16, Von Schweikert studied violin and piano at the Conservatory of the University of Heidelberg, a pursuit which he hated at the time. Looking back as an adult, he acknowledges that it was this invaluable experience that had helped shape his love of all forms of music.
Switching from violin to guitar at the age of twelve, by thirteen he was building hi-fi kits from Eico and playing a Silvertone electric guitar in a rockabilly band gigging at the USO Military Club in Heidelberg. After moving to the US in 1962, Von Schweikert joined the Musicians Union and, because he was able to read sheet music, soon became popular as a "session" player. Although he spent his weekdays studying pre-med at Georgia State College, he spent his weekends playing "gigs."
One of those gigs was a Sonny and Cher tour in the summer of 1967. After hearing Cher complain about the poor sound quality of the Altec A-7 Voice Of The Theater PA speakers, Von Schweikert decided to attempt to add an 8" JBL midrange speaker to its 15" woofer and the horn tweeter in an effort to more accurately render Cher's voice. This Frankenstein patchworked system evidently sounded quite good, but he felt it still had flaws.
It didn't take long for him to build a new three-way PA system from scratch using all JBL drivers. This new JBL-based system was used by Neil Diamond on a summer tour in 1968 to stirring effect. In fact, Diamond confided in Von Schweikert that while he was a "fair" guitar player, his speaker designs were "great!" It was this comment that Von Schweikert attributes to inspiring him to pursue speaker building as a career, precipitating his change of major from pre-med to engineering.
By 1976, Von Schweikert had married his girlfriend Linda and moved to California to enroll at Cal-Tech, the California Institute of Technology. Here he spent his days studying and his nights experimenting in the lab. Under the guidance of Dr. Richard C. Heyser, the inventor of Time Delay Spectrometry and one of the Chief Engineers at JPL, Von Schweikert was inspired to develop new technologies rather than just following the status quo in speaker design. Dr. Heyser's TDS device permitted an entirely new acoustical measurement technique, allowing one to accurately measure phase as well as amplitude. Von Schweikert developed an original theory, one that suggested that "a perfect speaker should be the inverse of the recording microphone," and this hypothesis was soon validated by Dr. Heyser.
In 1980, after four years of development, Von Schweikert published his Acoustic Inverse Replication theory at Cal Tech, which stated that a music recording is actually an "encoding of microphone voltages containing the clues of spatial dimension." From this point forward, all of Von Schweikert's speaker designs included a "decoder" with which to extract the out-of-phase ambience signals that were picked up at the rear of the recording microphone. This "decoded" signal was eventually fed to a rear-firing Ambience Retrieval System, which originally featured only a 1" mid/tweeter with a variable level control.
This new Patent Pending A.I.R technology was soon advanced to include the enhancement now known as G.A.I.N. (for Global Axis Integration Network), and using a rear-firing midrange/treble driver compliment to replicate the radiation pattern of an omni microphone, the Von Schweikert "Ambience Retrieval System" illuminates the room with a spherical radiation pattern. The result is that each listener in the room, regardless of their listening location, experiences real depth behind the speakers, and is able to perceive a most realistic sense of the "live" sound field that was embedded in the original recording. Von Schweikert soon started describing what his speaker systems and integration networks were capable of delivering as, in effect, a large microphone working in reverse!
After a long career at ESS Laboratory, during most of which Von Schweikert spent as Dr. Oskar Heil's research assistant, he developed the first three-way Heil Air Motion Transformer speaker with linear phase crossovers. After Dr. Heil's passing, Von Schweikert joined KSC Industries, the second largest supplier of speaker parts in the world.
There, Von Schweikert designed transducers and/or crossover systems for Polk, Klipsch, JBL, ESS Heil, Infinity, Apogee, Cerwin Vega, Jensen, NHT and many others. While designing for Counterpoint Electronics, Von Schweikert won his first "Product of the Year Award," for his Lucas Film THX design, called the ClearField Home Cinema, which was featured on the cover of Video Magazine's July 1995 issue.
Due to his breakthroughs in psychoacoustics and theoretical principles of acoustic reproduction of transducers, Von Schweikert became widely regarded as one of the industry's most preeminent speaker designers. As such, during this time his expertise was sought out and contracted by companies such as Lucas Film THX, Walt Disney, Steinway, A&M Records, Sheffield Sound Labs, Mobile Fidelity, and JVC.
In 1994, Von Schweikert decided to "take the plunge" and started Von Schweikert Research to manufacture and market the remarkable VR-4. With a retail of under $4000, the VR-4 moniker stood for Virtual Reality in 4 dimensions, which were described by amplitude, phase, time, and space. The VR-4 was derived from his first speaker, the Vortex Screen, which was first developed at Cal Tech sixteen years earlier in 1978. And while the Vortex Screen was the first VSR product to ever receive a review (and an overwhelmingly positive one, at that) it was the monstrously successful VR-4 that quickly established Von Schweikert as one of the most innovative designers in the high-end.
In the mid 1990's, Von Schweikert moved his company to the small New York town of Watertown, situated between Syracuse, NY and Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, to take advantage of several state and local agencies offering promises of support and development money in order to stimulate business and revive the local economy by attracting upscale high-tech industries to that up-state New York local. But, in January of 1999, unseasonably warm weather melted accumulated snow, causing runoff from a hazardous waste dump nearby to flood the speaker production shop, destroying the company's entire inventory, with losses estimated at over $300,000.
This extreme set-back forced Von Schweikert Research to fold, and Von Schweikert moved back to southern California to reform as Von Schweikert Audio. Though it was a struggle, the quality and value of his product line soon brought VSA back into financial health, and in short order, actually grew it to even greater success and heights. The culmination of Von Schweikert's work, his swansong, was the 2015 realization of his one-off, $750,000, six enclosure, nine-foot-tall concentric-array/line-source hybrid loudspeaker, the VR-111XS.
In the fall of 2015, Von Schweikert's son Damon took over as VSA's CEO, and Leif Swanson, who was hand-picked by and trained under Von Schweikert for over a decade, took over as chief designer, allowing Von Schweikert to retire. From that time, he shared his days with his wife Linda in their home in the California high desert.
We can't thank you enough for your monumental and singular contributions to our industry. Your unique and brilliant light will be so sorely missed... Rest in Peace, Maestro.
RIAA Posts Guidelines For Reopening Recording Studios
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), a trade organization that supports and promotes the creative and financial vitality of the major music companies, has released their guidelines for reopening recording studios. "As businesses around the country consider how to proceed with plans for partial and staggered reopenings, we understand that they are feeling a deep sense of responsibility and trepidation," says the RIAA. "Directives for opening are, of course, on a state-by-state and city-by-city basis. In the meantime, we have spoken with numerous recording studio owners, engineers and others around the country. Based on their suggested protocols, we've compiled a list of potential safety measures. The Producers & Engineers Wing, like its membership, is resilient. The Wing has been a resource for the recording community for nearly 20 years, and will continue its work with you long after this crisis has passed. We hope this information is helpful, and wish you and your loved ones good health and safety as we navigate this crisis." You can read the complete guidelines in PDF at this link.
The RIAA also posted about MusicCovidRelief.com, a resource brought to you by partners in the U.S. Music Community to help music professionals access information and applications to receive benefits made available by the CARES Act (Phase III of the Coronavirus Stimulus bill signed into law March 27, 2020) and the "Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act" signed into law on April 24, 2020.
Technics SL-1210GAE Ltd. Ed. 55th Anniversary Turntable
According to their press release: Technics has been delivering a wide variety of epoch-making audio products, such as speaker systems, amps and audio players to worldwide markets since 1965, the year in which this valued Hi-Fi audio brand debuted. This year, Technics releases the SL-1210GAE Limited Edition direct drive turntable (�3999 including Nagaoka phono cartridge) to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Technics brand. This special model is based on the internationally acclaimed Grand Class SL-1200G hi-fi turntable and features a full black color scheme, which has already proved popular with other recent Technics products. The SL-1210GAE will be available from June 2020 and limited to only 1,000 units will be sold in the world.
Special And Exclusive Specifications
Of The SL-1210GAE 55th Anniversary Model
1. All-black color scheme
The SL-1210GAE's 10-mm-thick aluminum top panel sports a meticulously anodized black brushed hairline finish. In addition, the operation buttons and tonearm also employ a high quality black finish that results in a uniform, premium appearance.
2. Special badge inscribed with a serial number
The SL-1210GAE is wholly made in Japan by skilled artisans' hands, with a significant level of hand-made processes to ensure the highest quality possible. The top panel features a special badge, inscribed with the unique serial number to signify that it is a 55th anniversary model.
3. Insulator
The specially developed zinc insulator features αGEL�, a soft gel-like material with excellent shock absorbing properties which is also used on the highly acclaimed, 'flagship' SL-1000R reference turntable. The high-density zinc die-cast housing offers superb vibration damping characteristics and excellent long-term reliability. The new insulator effectively isolates the turntable from external vibrations, ensuring completely undisturbed music reproduction whilst preserving every fine nuance and detail within the musical signal.
αGEL� is a trademark of Taica Corporation registered in Japan and/or other countries.
4. Strobe light ON-OFF switch
Turning off the strobe light allows the listener to concentrate more effectively on the music, especially in dimmed environment.
Product Features Of The SL-1210GAE
Coreless Direct Drive Motor
Conventional analogue turntables have problems with degradation in sound quality caused by factors such as minute speed vibration during rotation and rotation irregularity called "cogging." In the SL-1210GAE, the use of a coreless direct-drive motor (with no iron core) eliminates cogging. Also, the twin-rotor construction reduces the bearing load whilst maintaining high torque, and also reduces minute vibration during rotation. These factors enable reproduction of the warm, high-level detailed sound available from analogue vinyl records.
High-Precision Motor Control Technology
The application of motor control technology developed for Blu-ray devices, and switching the drive mode depending on the operational status of the motor achieves a high starting torque and high speed stability for optimum playback.
Three-layered Turntable Platter
The turntable features a three-layered construction with a rigidly combined brass top-plate, an aluminum die cast core platter and a solid rubber coating covering its entire rear surface to eliminate unwanted resonance, thereby achieving overall superior rigidity and vibration damping. This delivers smooth rotational stability and high inertial mass surpassing the SP-10MK2 (the direct-drive turntable standard used by broadcast stations worldwide), as well as having more than twice the inertial mass of the SL-1200MK5.
High-level Balance Adjustment
When the weight distribution of the turntable is uneven, excess vibration or noise occurs during rotation, which causes degradation in sound quality. To counteract this, the balance of the turntable is adjusted at the factory by using specialized high-precision balance adjustment equipment for each and every item after the turntable is assembled. Turntables that have undergone adjustment are labeled with a sticker reading "BALANCED" to indicate that individual adjustment has been done.
High-Sensitivity Tonearm
The tonearm employs lightweight magnesium which has a high damping effect, with cold drawing improving the characteristics of the material and achieving the high-precision required. In addition, high initial-motion sensitivity is attained by employing the traditional Technics gimbal suspension construction with the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis intersecting at a single central point, as well as high-precision bearings using a cut-processed housing.
High-Quality Terminals
The use of brass-milled and gold-plated phono terminals and ground terminals prevents degradation in sound quality while enabling the easy attaching and detaching of cables. Also the use of metal shielding construction inside the case reduces the effects of external noise.
Four-layered Cabinet Construction
A hairline-processed, 10-mm-thick black top panel of immaculate aluminum is added to a three-layered construction of aluminum die-cast, BMC (Bulk Molding Compound), and heavyweight-class rubber. This four-layered construction combines high rigidity necessary for superb vibration damping with a superior solid build and a luxurious finish and feel.
According to Stereonet, "The unique Nagaoka pickup cartridge provided with the SL-1210GAE is a moving magnet type JT-1210 cartridge that was tuned explicitly for the job by a joint team of engineers from Technics and Nagaoka. The JT-1210 employs a Boron cantilever and is specifically tuned and designed to offer superior performance in focus and detail in comparison to other Moving Magnet cartridges they say. Furthermore, it will only be available together with the SL-1210GAE turntable."
Twin-Rotor Surface-Facing Direct Drive Motor
Direct Drive Motor Controller
Brass-Top Turntable Platter
Heavy Aluminum Black Top Plate
Turntable Speeds 33.3, 45, and 78 rpm
Variable Range Pitch of +/- 8% and 16%
Dimensions 17.925" x 6.175" x 14.675" (WxHxD)
Weight 39.7 lbs.
Phono Output and Signal Ground
See Technics' SL-1210GAE Ltd. Ed. 55th Anniversary turntable product page at this link.
AES Virtual Vienna 2020 June 2nd Though 5th
As much of the world follows safe-at-home and social distancing guidelines and mandates, the Audio Engineering Society is bringing the AES Europe Convention directly to attendees. Originally scheduled to take place in Vienna, Austria, the AES Virtual Vienna Convention in now set for June 2nd through 5th, 2020, with an online format. The AES Virtual Vienna Convention is a front-row-seat to the AES event experience, utilizing live streaming, on-demand audio/video/multimedia presentations, interactive Q&A and forum dialogs to realize the personal connection and emotional feedback that is at the heart of AES live events.
All Access registration for this first-of-its-kind AES live event is available for just $50 for AES members ($175 for non-members), with additional discounts available for currently enrolled audio students. The AES Virtual Vienna Convention will explore the gamut of audio engineering science, application and technology with presentations from some of the leading minds in the industry on Studio Recording, Live Sound, Networked Audio, Broadcast & Streaming, Music Production, Post-Production, Game Audio, Spatial Sound, Audio for AR/VR/XR, Product Development and more.
Historic Video: A Dream Of Audio Perfection
Stereo: Three dimensional sound.
The biggest contribution to music since Barnum & Bailey.
Throughout the years, even from the very beginning, there was audio gear... and critics soon thereafter. Audio gear evolved, just as audiophiles carefully adjusted our listening space to accommodate it all. Finding the best recordings can be a challenge, too! Here's a great look back at the beginnings of high fidelity home audio equipment, and the reviewers in hopes of finding gear that achieved sound perfection. Call it what you will, perfect sound forever or the absolute sound, audiophiles seek to reproduce music within homes that is indistinguishable from what was heard during the live event.
---> Watch this historic video about the dream of audio perfection.
Legendary Loudspeaker Designer Sandy Gross Retires
To all my friends and colleagues,
I have been involved in the audio industry all my working career, almost 50 years, and it has been grand. I have co-founded three very significant companies, created countless great loudspeakers, worked with and met many wonderful people and made many terrific friends.
It has been a blessing and a blast.
We sold Golden Ear to The Quest Group in January and it had been my intention to stay on and continue with my life's work, involvement in product design, sales and marketing. Working with Bill and all the people at AudioQuest has been great and I have enjoyed it very much. However, the world has changed and I have decided to step down from my position as President Emeritus of Golden Ear and take a little time off to pursue all my many interests.
Thanks to everyone for your support and friendship over the years. It has really helped to make the magic happen! I look forward to many more years together. Please stay in touch!
Onward and Upward,
Sandy Gross
Version 8.0 For SD Express Memory Cards
With faster speeds of Wi-Fi 6 and cell phone 5G for streaming and downloading music, the SD Association announced their SD 8.0 specification for SD Express memory cards. This version increases transfer speeds by using the popular PCI Express (PCIe) 4.0 specification delivering a maximum of nearly four gigabytes per second (4 GB/s) data transfer rate. This enables faster access and accurate playback of Hi-Res Music within Hi-Res Audio devices. These full sized cards continue to use the NVMe Express (NVMe) upper layer protocol enabling advanced memory access mechanism. As always SD Express memory cards using SD 8.0 specification maintain backward compatibility. SD Express gigabyte speeds bring new storage opportunities for devices with demanding performance levels, across a variety of industries. The cards can move large amounts of data generated by data-intense wireless or wired communication. SD Express will be offered on SDHC, SDXC and SDUC memory cards.
SD 8.0 specification provides two transfer speed options for SD Express memory card. The two transfer speeds are accomplished by supporting either PCIe 3.0 x2 or PCIe 4.0 x1 architectures with up to ~2GB/s and with PCIe 4.0 x2 technology with up to 4GB/s. SD Express cards offering PCIe 4.0 x1 architecture use the same form factor as defined for SD 7.0 specification cards with a second row of pins to deliver transfer speeds up to 2 GB/s. SD Express cards supporting dual PCIe lanes (PCIe 3.0 x2 or PCIe 4.0 x2 technologies) have three rows of pins.
NAB Show Express Draws 40,000 Industry Professionals
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced today that an estimated 40,000 industry professionals have accessed the inaugural NAB Show Express since the online event launched on May 13. Participants from around the world engaged with content through social media streams, partner programs and directly via NabshowExpress.com. In total, participants consumed more than 1,600,000 minutes of video content via the event's broadcast channels, on-demand videos, and social media streams over the past week.
NAB Show, held annually in Las Vegas, is the world's largest convention encompassing media, entertainment and technology. With more than 90,000 attendees from 160 countries and over 1600 exhibitors, NAB Show is the ultimate marketplace for solutions that transcend traditional broadcasting and fuel the digital storytelling economy. The digital experience brought the annual NAB Show online with 24-hour access to premium content curated for the global media and entertainment community and an exclusive marketplace featuring 1479 exhibiting companies. NAB Show Express continues to offer free access to more than 200 on-demand educational sessions, executive conversations, resources and exhibits. Registration remains open at NABshowexpress.com through the end of August 2020.
T+A P 3100 HV Solid-State Stereo Preamplifier
The T+A HV P 3100 HV ($19,500) is based on the company's predecessor P 3000, with the two units differing visually only in their type designation. Internally, the entire preamplifier section has been improved by a re-designed circuit board layout. The new digital power supply is stronger and better shielded, with the toroidal transformer being increased to 115 VA. Within the previous model, the input and output stages were coupled to the relay volume control via high-quality capacitors. The complex circuit board layout of the P 3100 HV eliminates the need for these coupling capacitors, thus refining the signal path between the input stage, volume control, and output stage. In addition, the preamplifier board is voltage and temperature stable. Like all components of T+A's HV series, the new P 3100 HV is discrete, with fully symmetrical construction, while every construction element is of high-end audio quality. Inputs and outputs included are both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR.
World Premiere!
ZMF X Vibro MK II Headphones
Bespoke craftsmanship and uncompromising sound.
Review By Dave Hanson
One listen to ZMF headphones and it is readily apparent that Zach Mehrbach gets tone. I mean really gets it. So it came as no surprise to me when I learned he cut his teeth building acoustic guitars long before he ever began making headphones. Only first-hand experience can breed that kind of knowledge. In his newest creation, the ZMF X Vibro MK II ($479.99), Mehrbach brings that sweet, musical take on tone to the masses with an extremely capable headphone at a very accessible price point.
---> Read Enjoy the Music.com's review of ZMF's X Vibro MK II headphones.
iFi Audio iPhono3 Black Label MM/MC Phono Stage
iFi Audio's new iPhono3 Black Label phono stage ($999) is the perfect fix for vinyl addicts, ensuring every record is heard just as the artist intended. As music lovers across the land return to the tactile virtues of vinyl, so the demand for high-quality turntables has increased. For serious turntable users, a separate phono stage is a must. The iPhono3 Black Label has been painstakingly designed to satisfy the most discerning vinyl enthusiast. User-configurable to match any moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridge and suit every record, it delivers performance and versatility that place it in a a great value for the money category. The unit is driven by iFi's Class A TubeState engine and Direct Drive Servoless design. There's a wide range of settings � gain, load and EQ curves � to precisely suit the connected phono cartridge and the record being played. Super-low noise floor � one of the quietest phono stages at any price according to the company, lets you hear every detail. High gain of 72dB, on par with high-end phono stages, ensures it'll mate well with virtually any low-output MC cartridge.
iFi Audio's iPhono3 Black Label's circuit is direct-coupled � that is to say, there is no coupling capacitor from cartridge to output. This is achieved without a conventional DC servo; iFi calls this design Direct Drive Servoless, incorporating a proprietary DC Infinity circuit to boosts DC gain to a level approaching infinity. Once the feedback loop is closed, the DC gain cancels all offset voltages to deliver a direct-coupled output with 0V DC offset. The key to the DC Infinity circuit is that it only changes the gain below approximately 0.01Hz, while leaving the AC behavior of the circuit at higher frequencies unchanged, injecting neither noise nor distortion into the audio signal. This is said to contribute greatly to the iPhono3 Black Label's audible clarity, accuracy and transparency.
Priya Darshini's Periphery Album Available In Hi-Res
Now available from Chesky Records and HDtracks in Hi-Res Music 24-bit/192kHz is Priya Darshini's Periphery album. Her music is elegant, tranquil, intricately layered, timeless, and virtuosic. The album is a musical mix of styles, genres, and cultures featuring world-renowned cellist Dave Eggar, virtuoso hammered dulcimer player Max ZT, famed percussionist, and environmentalist Chuck Palmer, and Living Colour drummer Will Calhoun. Blending elements of traditional Indian music and improvisation with American folk and pop music, the result is an alluring treat for the senses and a World music album for the ages. Periphery explores the various connotations of what 'home' means to Priya Darshini, as she introspects on her cultural identity as a South Indian growing up in Mumbai and transplanted to New York City.
In the backdrop of the current anti-immigrant rhetoric, this album is a shining example of the beauty of cross-cultural collaboration. The diverse influences on the album reflect her journey and the varied musical influences that Darshini has absorbed along the way, that have now become a part of her very distinct musical identity. Taking her roots from Indian Classical music, Priya's knowledge of music from all over the world has resulted in a fresh, imaginative and fascinating new sound. She displays an exciting combination of range, technique, unconventional compositions, a feminist perspective and a prodigious voice that truly sets her apart from other vocalists.
Enjoy Reading Your Fave Hi-Fi Magazines Online
Everyone here at Enjoy the Music.com sympathizes with those affected by the recent health issue. Our hobby is one that can be enjoyed within the privacy, and security, of your home. We'd like to take a moment to remind our readers that many of our partner magazines offer online subscriptions. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music.
Print Partner Magazines
Web Partner Magazines
CAF And Daedalus Announce Pacific Audio Fest 2021
Lou Hinkley of Daedalus Audio, in collaboration with Gary Gill of Capital Audiofest (CAF), are pleased to announce the launch of the Pacific Audio Fest (PAF) in Seattle. With their first event slated for August 6th through 8th (2021), the Pacific Audio Fest is first and foremost a show by exhibitors for exhibitors. With that in mind, they are always open to input and will do everything possible to make this a great show for every exhibitor. By doing that, they are convinced that it will also be a great show for all attendees. One of the guiding principles for this show will be to keep the scale manageable for everyone. The show promoters envision about eighty rooms as optimal for this type of consumer audio show, and will ensure that the show will not expand far beyond that.
"We expect the show to do quite well in the first year, and then hit its limit no later than the second year" says their press release. "Once we hit our desired capacity, we will have a waiting list on a first-come, first-served basis. The show will be located in Seattle, Washington, with the venue to be announced in the near future. It would be an understatement to say we are in uncertain times, but since it takes an immense amount of time and work to initiate a top-quality professional audio show, we will forge ahead. Obviously, there will be no deposits until the COVID-19 situation is manageable. When I began work on PAF in fall of 2019, the date of late July/early August 2021 was established as the goal. We are still shooting for that, but realize that date may need to be pushed back. Regardless of the exact date, there is a need for a solid American Pacific show that will draw from LA to Vancouver, BC, and the Pacific Audio Fest will be ready to rock when the time is right."
"Our primary objective is to provide an audio festival that puts the needs of the audio community first, while serving the entire US Pacific Coast, from Los Angeles, CA to Vancouver, BC" continues their press release. "The Pacific Northwest has become a Mecca for great live music, centered on Seattle, whose long history in Jazz and Rock/Alt Rock is alive today. The Seattle area is a top tech hub, and one of the fastest-growing major U.S. cities. The area also offers excellent demographics for the audio industry, as well as incredible natural beauty. It's a great destination for audio enthusiasts and their families �truly a vacation paradise in the summer months."
RMAF 2020 In Denver Has Been Cancelled
No industry is ever immune to setbacks and disasters that loom large on our personal landscapes. Sometimes, they seem small in retrospect, but sometimes, the magnitude of the crisis is never diminished, and the only thing that matters is survival and managing the calamity with as much grace as we can muster. At RMAF, our hearts have been broken by some of those disasters, but our spirit has always triumphed. We have never shied away from difficult times. Over the years, we have endured many obstacles, including....
---> Read more about RMAF 2020's cancellation at this link.
Block Audio C-LOCK Power Connection Guard
Block Audio's new C-LOCK Power Connection Guard accessory ($49 to $395) is the simple, yet unique solution to secure and protect the use of aftermarket power cables. According to the company, "your components and/or power Conditioner are supplied with essential energy through this connection. Therefore, this connection must be maintained absolutely secure. Reliably free of vibrations, resonances and movements causing short transients...." Since many aftermarket power cables are usually very heavy and inflexible, your standard wall power outlet isn't intended for such heavy loads. Consequently, the contacts in the standard wall sockets are very overloaded, bent and can even be broken.
Block Audio's C-LOCK series of product are designed to enable the consumer to stabilize and guarantees a perfectly connected power cable. It also ensures an uninterrupted, stable supply of power while also safeguarding your expensive audio equipment from damage caused through poor mains connection. Block Audio says their new C-LOCK enhances audio performance and your musical listening pleasure. The C-LOCK series consists of three models: entry-level C-LOCK Lite, the more fully-featured step-up SE and the high performance SE� for use with Furutech and similar upgrades. They are available in both US/Nema and EU/Schuko configurations.
Six Acoustic York MM / MC Analog Phono Stage
Toronto area audio company Six Acoustic has launched its new York MM /MC phono preamplifier (CAD $350, approximately $250 USD). The York purports to be a competitive piece of gear offering performance in line with other high-end audio equipment for audiophiles and enthusiasts. With high quality parts housed within an elegant anodized aluminum chassis, the York promises "to deliver an audio experience unparalleled in its price range while not peacocking about in your hallowed audio space with unnecessary lights" says the company.
Boasting distortion below 0.001% and an adherence to the RIAA equalization standards, the York's aluminum box measures 6.5" x 7.2" x 1.2" (WxDxH). This low profile instrument offers an ease-of-use for enthusiasts who desire to rediscover vinyl, and it provides a suite of load control options for experienced connoisseurs too. It has adjustable gain settings for both moving magnet (MM at 40dB) and moving coil (MC at 60 dB) cartridges. Frequency response is from 20Hz to 20kHz, input impedance is 20 Ohms to 47 kOhm, and input capacitance is 0pF to 470pF. Analog inputs and outputs are via unbalanced RCA.
Professional Show Promoter Emerald Releases Financials
Emerald Holding Inc. (NYSE: EEX), one of the few true professional event producers that also support the consumer electronics industry, has released their Q1 2020 results. Note that the company paid extra for a communicable disease rider insurance policy that should provide for a payout equal to the gross revenues, less avoided costs, plus certain costs related to taking remedial action. Due to Coronavirus, their recent financial release states that they achieved $99.7 million in revenues, yet suffered $570.1 million in losses. It has been reported that actual losses are $624.9 million before a positive tax benefit of $54.8 million.
According to Strata-Gee, "In addition to those 29 canceled events (all events have been canceled through the end of July), Emerald has 'postponed' another 14 events. The value of the 29 canceled events is approximately $118 million in revenues; while the value of the postponed events is approximately another $12 million of revenues � both estimates are based on the results of these shows in 2019." Emerald's business is to build your business. They are creators, connectors, and consultants who partner with their customers to empower them to think ahead, know more, collaborate better, and forge lasting bonds with their communities. Serving as true partners, Emerald applies creativity, innovation, and service to meet your unique requirements... and deliver breakthrough results.
Free Foo Fighters Live At Wembley Stadium 2008 Concert
The free live music concerts keep gaining steam, plus many are fantastic fundraisers too! Rock band Foo Fighters are donating their income from the band's just-posted Live At Wembley Stadium 2008 concert to the GMV Crisis Fund with Music Venue Trust. If you are able, consider supporting the Music Venue Trust during this time and "keep the indie venues going" says the band's YouTube channel. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!
Cherry Amplifier Expands Multi-Channel x-CHerry Series
Cherry Amplifier, manufactured by Digital Amp Co., provides a very versatile line of high-performance amplifiers featuring the latest in analog/digital signal processing technology. Their x-CHerry series, with the first number being the quantity of input/output channels, now consists of 2-CHerry, 3-CHerry, 4-CHerry, and 5-CHerry versions. All x-CHerry amplifiers have Power Pipes, an innovative approach to minimizing the impedance of internal power supply connections. The two and three channel versions have triple rail capacitance for strong musical transient performance. The four and five channel versions have double rail capacitance.
Today's high-resolution recordings deserve powerful, quiet amplification. The x-CHerry amplifier series delivers this with 118dB SNR, 0.016 Ohm wideband output impedance, 0.002% THD+N, end-to-end DC Coupling, true balanced inputs and outputs, 100kHz bandwidth, and a healthy 400 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers. Cherry Amplifier have continued innovating with increasing levels of performance, both on the measurement bench and in the ears of their happy customers. Designs are tweaked for sound quality above all else, and the result is clean, clear "Sweet Cherry Sound". There are two versions of the x-CHerry, standard and KING. The KING version has Gold WBT binding posts, a beautiful anodized brushed aluminum red or black faceplate, and double rail capacitance on all channels. Read Enjoy the Music.com's review of the Digital Amplifier Company 2-CHerry Power Amplifier at this link. Pricing is as follows: 2-CHerry $2490, 3-CHerry $2690, 4-CHerry $2890, and 5-CHerry $3090. Their KING versions are 2-CHerry $2990, 3-CHerry $3190, 4-CHerry $3390, and 5-CHerry $3590.
Bowers & Wilkins 800D Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Newly refined design under close scrutiny.
Review By Alvin Gold
Until it was spelt out by the powers I don't think I fully realized how strong Bowers & Wilkins' (B&W) domination of the high end of the loudspeaker has become. Of course there are other brands and many of other individual high-end models out there, but B&W's share of the market with its extensive 800 series is enormous, and this means that uniquely among high end producers, B&W is able to benefit from the economies of scale in a way that is the envy of other producers. Just as an indication of what this can mean in practice. I have here a pair of large, well built loudspeakers with sapphire tweeter domes, which currently cost UK sterling �32,000 a pair.
---> Read our review of Bowers & Wilkins' 800D floorstanding speaker.
English Electric 8Switch Ethernet Data Switch
English Electric (a Chord Company brand) has officially launched its first-ever product, the 8Switch data switch (�450). The 8Switch is a high-quality eight-port GbE Ethernet switch designed to deliver high-quality sound from music streamed over a network. Cosseted by a high-quality machined aluminum enclosure, which offers excellent protection from both acoustic and electrical noise, the 8Switch comprises eight audio-grade 100/1000 Base-T gigabit Ethernet ports, with high and low electrical noise isolation, reducing troublesome data issues when streaming music over a network. A discreet LED display on the front panel includes power, alarm and the link status/speed for each of the eight ports.
Resonance-damping feet are also featured to help decouple the 8Switch from unwanted mechanical vibration. Each 8Switch is also supplied with a Chord Company C-Stream digital streaming cable (0.75m) worth �40. English Electric's engineers set about improving the power signal by using an extremely high-quality wall supply. The advanced medical-grade power adaptor permits an optimum-quality network signal, driven by high-accuracy clock technology and has been designed to reduce electrical noise from AC sources, and prevent mains quality issues from affecting network signals. The 8Switch is driven by a customized TCXO (Temperature Compensation Crystal Oscillator) with accuracy rated at 0.1ppm: far higher than normal crystals and higher than a normal TCXO, allowing the 8Switch to generate higher-accuracy network signals, which in turn, help provide more stable music-data transmission.
Prince And The Revolution: Live 1985 Concert
The Prince Estate, in partnership with YouTube, will host a three-day streaming event of Prince And The Revolution: Live, a historic concert captured at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, NY on March 30, 1985. To celebrate the streaming release of Prince And The Revolution: Live, The Prince Estate and YouTube will host a watch party on Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m. CDT. An hour before the watch party, at 6 p.m. CDT, fans will have the opportunity to participate in a special pre-stream Q&A with Revolution drummer Bobby Z moderated by Andrea Swensson of Minnesota Public Radio 89.3 The Current.
Prince And The Revolution: Live will be available on Prince's official YouTube Channel for three days only (through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 17). In collaboration with YouTube and Google, the streaming event will run in support of the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (powered by UN Foundation and Swiss Philanthropy Foundation). Any viewer donations will include a matching component from Google (Google will match $2 for every $1, up to $5 million).
T.H.E. Show 2020 Cancelled: Here's The Important Details
Dear Exhibitors, Showgoers, Esteemed Members of the Press, and Valued Members of the Audiophile/Music Enthusiast Community:
As you are aware, we have sent out a few public announcements regarding T.H.E. Show 2020 in this one, we will provide what we believe to be a final update. There have been a few delays to releasing it publicly and for good reason, which we state below.
The original plan was to postpone T.H.E. Show from its original date of June 12-14, 2020 to December, in time for the holiday season to support everyone's holiday shopping and selling. For the past six or so weeks, we have communicated and negotiated with the hotel and were in the final stages of being ready to announce our intention to simply move the dates. However, prior to moving the dates, we wanted to ensure everyone was going to be safe. Therefore, we had written and called the hotel numerous times, forwarding them concerns we had about the safety of our participants, asking questions and asking for clarification on what their health and safety policies would be. We have not received any solid answers.
When we heard the updated news from Governor Newsome's office regarding the four-stage reopening plan for the State of California, we wrote to the hotel once again but this time to request information on a full cancellation and refund as it is our the belief that the Hotel cannot guarantee that the event could take place even if we pushed it to December. The reply that we received was an updated contract, including a brand new Force Majeure clause that moved cancellation power out of our hands. The position of the hotel to spring this clause on us with no notice (that made cancellation contingent on the CDC or a governmental entity imposing a travel ban or attendance ban 60 days prior to the event, meaning that the ban would have to be imposed by October in order to be applicable) as well as other parts of the new clause caused such concern that the uncertainty of moving forward under those conditions are, in our professional and moral opinion, untenable and irresponsible.
As such, we have had no choice but to cancel T.H.E. Show 2020. With this cancellation, we would like you to know the following:
(1) On May 5, 2020, our attorneys sent correspondence to the hotel formally canceling the event and seeking a refund of the monies that The Home Entertainment Show, LLC has already tendered to the Hotel for reservations. We are waiting for the hotel to respond to our attorney's letter.
The hotel's position, in our viewpoint, is a regrettable one, and we felt that in the face of these uncertain times, and in order to ensure the safety of our exhibitors, attendees, and the entire community we simply could not move forward.
We are a small business, like many of you, and like many of you, we know that right now, certainty, stability, compassion, and transparency in communication make all the difference in the world.
(2) Once we have heard back from the hotel, we will provide a further update to our Exhibitors directly regarding refunds. We hope the hotel will do the right thing, which is to issue full refunds and keep a focus on a longer-term relationship with T.H.E. Show and the high-end audio community for future events.
Please know we are 100% committed to doing right by each and every one of you, as much as we possibly can, and we will be by our computers and phones to welcome any questions you have. We will do our absolute best to provide you with the most up to date information we have and remain supportive of you through this time, and always.
Sincerely and in support,
T.H.E. Show
Spotify Connect Now Available For Lindemann Streamers
There's good news for all old and new owners of a Lindemann Limetree streaming product (Limetree Bridge and Limetree Network), as their upcoming software update will provide your device(s) to stream Spotify Connect. Since the update also comprises of additional improvements, they recommend all existing owners of a Limetree streamer to install this software update. This will happen � as usual - via the web update feature in the Lindemenn app. By using Spotify Connect, the world's most popular streaming service gives you access to stream millions of songs. With a Spotify premium subscription, you can use Spotify via app on a mobile device and play back the music over the Limetree streamer. This will get the data straight from the Spotify servers so that the mobile device can be set to standby.
Rotel RC-1590 Stereo Preamplifier With 32-bit/768kHz DAC
Rotel's new RC-1590 stereo preamplifier has been engineered to the highest audio performance levels and provides an incredible level of control and flexibility. Starting with a high performance power supply consisting of two Rotel custom built toroidal transformers for maximum efficiency and low magnetic fields, these transformers provide low-noise isolation between the analog and digital signals. They are part of a reference grade power supply consisting of individual analog and digital regulator circuits with custom-made slit-foil capacitors. Slit-foil capacitors have very quick charge/discharge times and low signal loss ensuring tight bass performance. Every aspect of component selection and circuit topography was designed and carefully evaluated during multiple listening sessions to ensure the highest fidelity.
Analog inputs feature very low noise circuitry and include a high performance moving magnet (MM) phono stage. Digital inputs are fully isolated and feature a precision 32-bit/768kHz digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Rotel's RC-1590 stereo preamplifier is fully feature-laden with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs, a TI precision volume control IC, a fixed volume line output, dual mono subwoofer outputs, digital outputs (S/PDIF coax and TosLink optical), digital inputs (three each coax and optical), Aux, CD, and Tuner analog inputs, internal aptX Bluetooth, a front USB 2.1A input, and rear panel PC-USB 24-bit/192kHz input supporting DSD (Windows) and DoP (MAC computers DSD over PCM).
Volti Audio's New Affordable Razz Horn Loudspeaker
Volti Audio, celebrating ten years of producing high-quality audio products for the home environment, is proud to introduce their most compact and affordable Volti horn speaker to date � the Volti Audio Razz ($4999). The Razz is a three-way hybrid horn/bass-reflex design with high sensitivity, wide bandwidth, superb build quality, and captivating sound. Volit Audio's Razz shares the same sound signature as their other products, with effortless power delivery, Wide dynamic range, finely resolved articulate mid-range, and immersive room-filling sound.
A 12" high-power and high-sensitivity woofer are loaded into a bass reflex / ported configuration. It is joined by a 2" throat large midrange horn with shallow wide-dispersion, and neodymium horn tweeter. Their custom made crossovers features high quality components, which is 100% hand-wired at the factory, and provides bi-wire capability. Sensitivity is a very generous 97dB/W/m at 6 Ohms. Frequency response is from 35Hz to 20kHz, dimensions are 40" x 15" x 12" (HxWxD), and each speaker weighs 90 lbs. Volti Audio's Razz cabinet is made with beautiful wood veneers and finishes, with 1" thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinetry. Cabinet wood veneer finishes in stock form include Walnut, Mahogany, Cherry, and Maple. Premium Bosse Cedar, Rosewood, Red Gum, or Blackened Ash veneer finishes add $1000.
Metronome Le Player 3 Third-Generation CD Player
Started in 2015 by Metronome, the original story of Le Player series continues in 2020 with a third generation of devices. The first model of Le Player 3 is a fabulous CD transport, which is intended for the most demanding audiophiles when it comes to listen to 16-bit/44.1kHz compact discs in the best conditions. As a member of the Classica range, Le Player 3 was designed to meet new requirements from audiophiles now mostly using streaming, but still needing to listen to their old CDs. Metronome says some CDs still can't be easily found on streaming platforms. With their new high-end CD transport, and knowing many music lovers may prefer to use their own Hi-Res Audio DAC, music lovers now have the option to listen to CDs with a top sound reproduction quality without necessity to go through the D/A converter of an integrated CD player. Le Player 3 integrates an easy up-sampling option, allowing to change the frequency rate from the 44.1kHz of CD up to DSD 128. For frequencies over 192kHz, the signal will be transmitted through the I2S HDMI digital output.
Hi-Fi+'s May 2020 High-End Audio Magazine
Hi-Fi+ magazine's May 2020 issue features coverage of the Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2020, plus Meet Your Maker with cable manufacturer Cardas Audio. Equipment reviews within this issue include YG Acoustic Vantage floorstanding loudspeaker, Conrad-Johnson Art27A valve stereo power amplifier, ATC CD2 CD player, Metronome Audio Le DAC, Chord Electronics Huei MM/MC phono stage, Blue Horizons PRS equipment support system, and Lateral Audio Systems LAS AmpX Concert support platform. Also reviews within this issue of Hi-Fi Plus are the Focal Arche headphone DAC / pre / amp / headphone stand, Ausounds Au-Flex-Anc noise-cancelling wireless neckband earphone system, and Ansuz Acoustics DarkZ record stabilising system.
Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says, "The movie business loves a bit of post-apocalyptic dystopian near-future noir. And in almost every one of these bleak movies, there's always a scene � often in flashback � where some crumpled-looking news anchor in a badly lit studio signs off saying something like "Good luck, and God Bless!" As a print editor, my personal favourite is the 1950s British classic, The Day The Earth Caught Fire. Blistering heat aside, that all feels disturbingly real right now! Today, we shelter. Tomorrow, we rebuild. However, that means our normal editorial has been somewhat blind-sided by the impact of COVID-19. Manufacturers who offered us reviews have products locked away in shuttered warehouses and factories. Newsagents and magazine distributors around the world have to deal with closed stores while everyone waits for this medical tornado to pass." See what's within this issue of Hi-Fi+ magazine at this link.
World Premiere Review!
VAC Renaissance Preamplifier Mk V With MM/MC Phono Stage
For serious music lovers living at the cutting edge of what is possible.
Review By Ron Nagle
The letters VAC is not an abbreviation for vacuum, although the VAC Renaissance Mk V does have five miniature twin triode vacuum tubes on board. The company banner is actually an acronym for, Valve Amplification Company. This Mk V preamplifier is something entirely new in the VAC lineup for 2017. There is a basic MkV line stage preamplifier without the phono stage that sells for $9990. That configuration uses just two miniature Dual Triode tubes. The Renaissance Preamplifier Mk V under evaluation contains an optional phono amplifier stage which adds three additional 12AX7 tubes. With the optional phono stage on board the cost increases to, $12,990.
---> Read our review of the VAC Renaissance Preamplifier Mk V with MM/MC phono stage.
The DEG Q1 2020 Home Entertainment Report
As compiled by The DEG members (The Digital Entertainment Group), consumer purchases and rentals of digital entertainment increased to $596,000,000 in March 2020. Digital transactional home entertainment grew 48% in biggest month ever! Driven by entertainment-hungry consumers sheltering at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, digital home entertainment transactions through electronic sell through (EST) and video on demand (VOD) hit $596,000,000 in March 2020, an increase of 48% over March 2019 and the sector's highest monthly revenue to date. Stay at home orders rolled out across the USA beginning in mid-March, though some consumers had started to limit social activity even earlier in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus.
During March, theatrical product was especially strong, rising 57% on EST and 67% on VOD, as numerous wide release movies came early to the home. Overall, consumers within the United States of America enjoyed home entertainment to the tune of $6,900,000,000 during the first three months of 2020. This is a 15% increase from the $6,000,000,000 consumers spent on home entertainment product in the same period a year earlier.
G�bel High End Divin Marquis Loudspeaker
G�bel High End are happy to announce their new Divin Marquis floorstanding speaker ($80,000 per pair). As every single product from G�bel High End, the new Divin Marquis loudspeakers are a product of the finest German engineering, executed with absolute passion in all details, and completely produced to the pinnacle of perfection in Germany. This three-Way, high sensitivity, design employs a symmetrical bass reflex cabinet. A significantly improved AMT tweeter is aided by a massive aluminum wave guide. G�bel High End's proprietary 8" midrange os joined by their 12" proprietary long-throw woofer. Sensitivity is a good 92dB/W/m as it presents a 4 Ohm load to your amplifier. Frequency Response is from 21Hz to 28kHz (-3dB). The enclosure is acoustically optimized and made with constrained-layer damping, is tropical room-proof as resin bounded composite board has a maximum thickness of 75mm. Standard finish is piano lacquer black, with aluminum parts in black ultra matt soft touch with silver brushed aluminum highlights. Any finish is possible at the customer's request. Dimensions are 118 x 41 x 72 cm (HxWxD) and the unit weights 150 kgs.
AXPONA's 50% / 25% / 25% Offer
Dear AXPONA Exhibitors;
Since we announced last week that AXPONA 2020 had been cancelled due to COVID-19 we have received an outpouring of support and well wishes. We are appreciative that the majority of exhibitors understand the disastrous financial predicament we are facing and are willing to give us time to get back on our feet. We have also received our fair share of criticism, lawsuit threats and demands for refunds. We get it. Many of you are hurting badly too. Unfortunately, JDE does not have the ability to issue refunds or respond to legal claims.
---> Read more about AXPONA's 50% / 25% / 25% offer.
Senseless Rambling
An Article Everyone Is Going To Hate
The below article has been rolling around in my head....
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
First off, this is a Senseless Rambling article so you know the shit is about to get real as I see it. I have to also add this undesirable legal disclaimer that any likeness to the below situation(s), people, or places is merely a coincidence and is not based on any facts. Any relation to any events real or imaged is pure coincidence. Odds are everyone is reading this article will be emotionally angry, feeling unfulfilled that their point of view is not as 'valued' as others. Perception plays a key role in how this species experiences life.
---> Steven's Senseless Ramblings that you're going to hate reading.
Sumiko Acquires Rotel And LATAM Distribution
Sumiko has been appointed as the new USA and LATAM distributor for Rotel Electronics. Under the McIntosh Group umbrella, Sumiko's acquisition of Rotel is a strategic step toward their goal of becoming the premier distributor of high-performance audio and video products. "We are thrilled to add the amazing Rotel line to our brand portfolio," states Jeff Poggi, President and CEO of Sumiko. "We are excited to work with the talented group of likeminded, passionate music lovers at Rotel. The Rotel brand enables us to offer more value to both our specialty retailers as well as our fast-growing custom installation dealers."
Sumiko approaches all new product categories and market growth opportunities with a strategic and disciplined eye. Rotel has nearly 60 years in the industry, known as a high-quality, high-performance, and high-value audio and video electronics brand. The Rotel brand and products complement Sumiko's current business portfolio and brand roster, extending customer reach with the addition of a wider range of products and price points. Sumiko will begin US and LATAM distribution effective June 1, 2020, and all Rotel products will be available through authorized dealers.
Electrocompaniet ECI 6 MKII And ECI 6 DX MKII
Electrocompaniet has launched their new ECI 6 MKII and ECI 6 DX MKII integrated amplifiers. The ECI 6 MKII is a powerful integrated amplifier equipped with four analog inputs and produces 125 Watts per channel stereo at 8 Ohms. This model is based on Electrocompaniet's ECI 5 MK II. To enhance it, the company has equipped the ECI 6 MKII with an improved power supply and a more sophisticated preamplifier module. Analog sources can be connected to one balanced XLR stereo input and three unbalanced RCA stereo inputs. There are two stereo preamplifier outputs, one balanced XLR and one unbalanced RCA. The input stage is built from discrete circuits running in Class A with zero feedback. The output stage runs with moderate amounts of negative feedback, carefully balanced between good bass extension and control, a detailed open midrange and a warm detailed top says the company. The ECI 6 MKII is upgradeable to ECI 6 DX MKII.
Electrocompaniet's ECI 6 DX MKII integrated amplifier (pictured above) produces 125 Watts per channel stereo at 8 Ohms and continues the upgrade of the company's Classic Line of products. The ECI 6 DX MKII combines a best-in-class feature set with cutting edge audio technology and true Electrocompaniet sound. This single unit is able to play whichever, wherever and whatever audio source you may have. Electrocompaniet's ECI 6 DX MKII has a built-in Hi-Res Music streamer that is extremely powerful, flexible, and easy to use. It can play directly from music services such as Tidal, Qobuz and Spotify, plus it can be fed music through AirPlay or DLNA, and a network drive. Analog inputs and output are provided for both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA. All popular formats are supported including DSD, plus continuous software upgrades can support the latest and greatest streaming services. The ECI 6 DX MKII can be operated by the intuitive iOS and Android application, a universal web interface, or with the included IR remote control.
Music Creators Join Sessions Live By Pandora's Founder
Sessions, a live streaming platform for music, announced the beta launch of its web and mobile app in 200+ countries and 15 languages. With just a laptop and a microphone, musicians can perform live, cultivate a global fanbase, and make a sustainable income from home. By combining live interactive streaming with the best engagement and monetization features of advanced game design, Sessions is ushering in a new form of musical performance. Sessions is the first live streaming platform custom built to solve the most pressing issues for musicians � building a true fanbase and generating significant and sustained income.
Building Global Fandom for Free: Most platforms provide little or no marketing support. Worse, they charge to artists to attract listeners or reach their own fans. Sessions does all of this work at no cost to the artist by using its own marketing growth engine to bring the audience.
Making Real Money: While most live streaming platforms rely on one-off tips to compensate artists, Sessions provides the enduring value of virtual goods and services engineered to help Artists earn sustainable, compounding income. Already, a growing number of artists in the beta program are building large audiences and earning steady incomes from the platform. These are artists with no prior commercial presence or success now in a position to make a living doing what they love.
Floyd Friday: An Hour With Pink Floyd KQED Music Video
Every Friday Pink Floyd is offering up a new music video for those on Staycation 2020. An Hour with Pink Floyd: KQED sees the band filmed performing live in April 1970 by San Francisco cable TV station KQED. Taken from the version featured on 2016 The Early Years 1965-1972 box set, the film includes performances of "Atom Heart Mother", "Cymbaline", "Grantchester Meadows", "Green Is The Colour", and "Careful With That Axe Eugene".
Enjoy the Music.com's May 2020 Review Magazine
High-End Audio / Audiophile Equipment Reviews And Think Pieces
Enjoy the Music.com just posted our May Review Magazine online. This month features a video interview of Enjoy the Music.com's Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin, a pair of articles about marketing during these modern times, plus a World Premiere Review tweakfest of Synergistic Research products. Chick Corea gets caught shoplifting vinyl LPs! We also feature Joe Cohen of The Lotus Group who gives you all the details about an advanced record cleaning system on the cheap. This month's 10 Questions For Manufacturers gives you an inside look into Bill Dudleston of Legacy Audio, Dan D'Agostino of Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems, John Franks of Chord Electronics, Ray Kimber of Kimber Kable, Val Cora of Acora Acoustics, and Tommy O'Brien off Digital Amplifier Company. We also have a variety of gear reviews and much more within Enjoy the Music.com's May Review Magazine!
AXPONA 2020 And The Coronavirus
Major USA show reschedules, then cancels.
As most of you reading this know, AXPONA 2020 had to be rescheduled during the first wave of the Coronavirus pandemic. In early March they sent out an e-mail that said, "AXPONA has been rescheduled from April 17-19 to August 7-9, 2020 out of concern for the health and safety of all participants due to the growing coronavirus situation. This decision was made following an outpouring of feedback from the AXPONA community over the last 72 hours."
---> Read more about AXPONA 2020 and the Coronavirus.
T.H.E. Show Interviews Steven R. Rochlin
T.H.E. Show (The Home Entertainment Show) recently launched their news series called T.H.E. Talk, which is available on Facebook and other online platforms. This week they interviewed / Q&A'ed with Enjoy the Music.com's Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin. Emiko Carlin asks many great question including budget and cost-no-object audio gear, to streaming music and more!
---> Watch this very special video interview on Facebook.
'Round And 'Round, Having Fun!
Roger Skoff writes about how one good thing can lead to another.
Article By Roger Skoff
When I was a kid, I was a music snob. Other than Doo-Wop (which I still love, even today), I pretty much thought that any music written after the death of Handel (1759) wasn't worth listening to. The exception � the reason I just say "pretty much" about my musical bias � was that, if it was brilliantly and believably recorded, I would listen to and enjoy just about anything! I became a Hi-Fi Crazy...
---> Read Roger Skoff's 'Round And 'Round, Having Fun! article.
The Six Steps To A Successful Online Strategy
Article By Bobby Owsinski
Although you'll find plenty of detailed information about most aspects of your online promotion in the latest edition of my Social Media Promotion For Musicians book, here are the six basic steps you'll need to take in order to prepare for a successful online strategy.1. Make your website your main online focal point. Make sure that all your important information is curated there and is easy for a site visitor to find.
---> Read more about The Six Steps To A Successful Online Strategy.
Marketing Strategies That Will Win
A three-pronged approach to allow your marketing to thrive in the 2020s. Article By Steven Picanza Of Latin & Code
New year... new decade... same old marketing strategies? Regardless of whether you actually kept your 2020 marketing-planning meeting on the books, all isn't lost. The amazing thing is, the impassable mountain called "marketing" that's sitting in front of you is actually an optical illusion; in reality, it's just a bunch of smaller hills.
---> Read Marketing Strategies That Will Win For The New Decade.
Flashback Editorial: The Intro
When I first heard about the Internet, I thought it was a load of crap.
Editorial By Art Dudley
When I was five years old, grocery stores began selling a product called Happy Nut, which I considered ingenious: peanut butter shaped into quarter-pound sticks, like butter, and filled with a core of grape jelly. With Happy Nut on the butter dish, one did not have to bother opening two jars (or even one!) before enjoying a healthy, satisfying meal: It was a simple and time-saving matter of dipping one's knife, spreading one's spread, and eating. The fact that the Happy Nut logo was a picture of a monkey was icing on the cake.
---> Read Art Dudley's The Intro editorial from Listener magazine.
Shoplifting With Chick Corea
Watch as Chick Corea gets caught shoplifting vinyl LPs.
First he raids their record bins, then he reviews his loot. Chick shows us how to handle vinyl properly and reminds us of the importance of not leaving your car unattended when your record collection is on the back seat. From Miles Davis Relaxin' to Issac Hayes' Hot Buttered Soul, Chick Corea takes us through his must-have LP rap sheet, album by album.
---> Watch Chick Corea shoplifting Craft Recordings vinyl LPs.
Shoplifting With Record Producer Scott Litt
Watch as record producer Scott Litt gets caught shoplifting vinyl LPs.
First he raids their record bins, then he reviews his loot. Watch as Scott Litt, longtime friend and producer of R.E.M., gets caught shoplifting at Craft Recordings! First he raids our record bins, then he reviews his loot, sharing insights into his musical heroes, influences and inspirations along the way. From THE Pharcude's Bizzare Ride to John Coltrane's Lush Life, Scott Litt takes us through his must-have LP rap sheet, album by album.
---> Watch Scott Litt get caught shoplifting Craft Recordings vinyl LPs.
Advanced Record Cleaning On The Cheap
A recipe for building an articulated, weighted brush holder.
Article By Joe Cohen Of The Lotus Group
My good friend Jeff Whitlock got me thinking about the fabulous Clearaudio Double Matrix record cleaner. I mean, who wouldn't love to own one: press a button and it performs a complete cleaning, applying the fluid, brushing, vacuuming and demagnetizing both sides of an LP in 2.5 minutes, automatically!
---> Read about Advanced Record Cleaning On The Cheap.
Speaker Placement In Five Easy Steps
Article By Nordost
Implementing correct speaker placement could be one of the most beneficial changes one can make in an audio system. The slightest shift or rotation in your loudspeakers can completely transform your soundstage, for better or worse. And when even one centimeter could be responsible for transforming the sound system that you have invested so much in, the idea of tackling and perfecting speaker placement may seem daunting.
---> Read about Speaker Placement In Five Easy Steps.
10 Questions For High-End Audio Manufacturers
Bill Dudleston, Founder & Engineer Of Legacy Audio
Enjoy the Music.com's 25th Anniversary special feature!
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring Bill Dudleston of legacy. Bill Dudleston is President and founder of Legacy Audio, a high performance audio and home theater equipment manufacturer located in Springfield, Illinois.
---> Read more about Bill Dudleston of Legacy Audio.
Featuring Dan D'Agostino Of Dan D'Agostino MAS
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring Dan D'Agostino Of Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems. Perhaps no name is more closely associated with high-end audio amplifiers than that of Dan D'Agostino.
---> Read more about Dan D'Agostino of Dan D'Agostino MAS.
Featuring John Franks Of Chord Electronics
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring John Franks, Founder, Owner and Chief Designer at Chord Electronics. Chord Electronics offers a broad range of high-end amplification and digital conversion products.
---> Read more about John Franks of Chord Electronics.
Featuring Ray Kimber Of Kimber Kable
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring Ray Kimber of Kimber Kable. In the mid 1970s Ray Kimber worked at a sound and lighting company in Los Angeles. The first big discotheques were being installed at that time.
---> Read more about Ray Kimber of Kimber Kable.
Featuring Val Cora Of Acora Acoustics
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring Val Cora of Acora Acoustics. At Acora Acoustics, their goal is simple: Engineer speakers that bring your music to life. Their loudspeakers are crafted to let pure sound take the stage.
---> Read more about Val Cora of Acora Acoustics.
Featuring Tommy O'Brien Of Digital Amplifier Company
During Enjoy the Music.com's very special 25th Anniversary we're asking various high-end audio manufacturers to answer the same ten questions. Their answers may surprise you! This month we're featuring Tommy O'Brien of Digital Amplifier Company. Digital Amplifier Company was founded in 1996 after several years of developing switching amplifiers for audio. Their goal was development of new high performance amp technology.
---> Read more about Tommy O'Brien of Digital Amplifier Company.
Couchmaster CYBOT Ergonomic Lap Desk
Be a Staycation couch potato champ with your notebook computer.
Article By Steven R. Rochlin
Suitable for notebooks up to 17", the Couchmaster CYBOT Ergonomic Lap Desk has a ventilation grille for optimal cooling of your notebook. Made from sustainable bamboo, their patented ergonomics features lateral support cushions to ensure stability. The new Couchmaster CYBOT is a game-changer for all notebook users.
---> Read more about Couchmaster CYBOT Ergonomic Lap Desk.
Porsche 911 Flat-Six Boxer Engine
Keep busy during Staycation 2020, build a Porsche flat six engine!
Bored at home during Staycation 2020? Now you can build a fully-functional 1:4 model of an all-time classic motor - the flat-six engine from the Porsche 911. This detailed replica features many excellent details as is found within the real thing. The kit includes a transparent casing so the moving parts can be seen when switched on. Furthermore, it also featured engine sounds.
---> Read more about building a Porsche 911 flat-six engine.
Sigma 200mm To 500mm f/2.8 Zoom Lens
No other lens like it in the world!
Some say bigger is better, and with this lens you have (perhaps) the world's most impressive commercially-produced for the general public lens every created by humankind. It's also the largest high speed ultra-telephoto zoom available. Sigma's APO 200mm to 500mm F2.8 / 400mm to 1000mm F5.6 EX DG, is the first large-aperture ultra telephoto lens to have an F2.8 aperture at 500mm.
---> Read about Sigma's 200mm To 500mm f/2.8 zoom lens.
ATC SCM150ASLT Active DSP Speakers
Active floorstanding speaker test.
Review By Michael Lang Of STEREO Magazine
ATC � never heard of it? Then it's time to change that! Otherwise you might possibly miss the best loudspeaker of your life � as for example the SCM150ASLT active floorstander. You might think our introductory statement to have been rather bold, which, of course is absolutely possible. However on the other hand there is the list of people using ATC speakers, which reads like the Who's Who of worldwide recording studios, musicians and producers.
---> Read our review of ATC's SCM150ASLT Active DSP speakers.
Top Wing Suzaku - Red Sparrow MC Phono Cartridge
Perhaps the last cartridge you will ever need.
Review By Tom Lyle
A few years ago I reviewed the Van den Hul Crimson Stradivarius phono cartridge. I began that review by expressing my love-hate relationship with phono cartridges. The love stems from my love of music, and the fact that I prefer music reproduced by vinyl, and that the phono cartridge converts vibrational energy from the grooves of the records into an electric signal and then this electrical signal is somehow converted into the music that comes forth from our speakers.
---> Read our review of Top Wing's Suzaku - Red Sparrow MC cart.
Meze Rai Penta In-Ear Monitor
Worth The Wait: Meze Delivers an artful and meticulously crafted masterpiece.
I first encountered the Meze Rai Penta ($1099) at CanJam SoCal in 2018, and at the time, I found myself absolutely floored by it, noting that it had the potential to be a best-in-class all-rounder. Of course, at that time, it was only an early prototype, but seeing it again and again at subsequent shows over the next year, I always came out feeling the same way � wow, this is the real deal.
---> Read our review of the Meze Rai Penta in-ear monitor (IEM).
Synergistic Research Tweakfest
With the Orange Duplex, Carbon Fiber Duplex Cover, Tranquility Pod, MiG SX footers and Ground Block.
Review By Rick Becker
Originally, I wanted to write an article about turning my aging speakers into a more contemporary version with the addition of some tweaks for tens of thousand dollars less than buying a new pair. I called up Andy Wiederspahn at Synergistic Research and gave him my wish list. Although he was willing to help, he politely twisted my arm and convinced me to first review the quartet of hot new products they have just released. How could I refuse?
---> Read our Synergistic Research Tweakfest.
Xavian Premio Esclusivo Loudspeakers
A gem of a monitor that knows how to sing.
Review By Rick Jensen
My first confession: I had only heard of Xavian Loudspeakers in this magazine before being offered a pair of their Premier Esclusivo (PE) small monitors for review. Brett Rudolph reviewed their Perla Esclusiva monitors in June 2019. Yes, I had not read reviews of the same monitors in other publications. And I will also confess that my first reason for wanting to review a pair was very simple � they looked really good.
---> Read our review of Xavian Premio Esclusivo loudspeakers.
Read All Articles, Reviews, And Show Reports
We have many more reviews, think pieces, etc than shown above, so be sure to read this month's edition of Enjoy the Music.com's Review Magazine at this link.
Previous High-End Audio News
For previous high-end audio and music industry news click here.


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Lagos reiterates commitment to Women Run
in News Update, Sports
By Oluwamayomikun Orekoya
Lagos State has restated its commitment to create the enabling platforms for the female gender to excel in sporting activities, develop healthy lifestyle and as well boost their total wellbeing.
This much was stated by the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Segun Dawodu during the award ceremony of the 2020 Lagos Women Run over the weekend, even as he assured the participants and organisers of the state's commitment to making the marathon a world-class initiative aimed at supporting the female gender to find fulfilment and achieve purpose.
"The Lagos Women Run provides an avenue for the state to support the female gender as part of our overall commitment to enhance the development of sports in Nigeria," he said.
Plateau State runner, Patience Dalyo, led from the start at Tafawa Balewa Square to Teslim Balogun Stadium; breasted the tape at 33 minutes 43.73 seconds to win the Elite Open category.
This year's edition of the 10km race saw the introduction of the virtual race, the first ever in Africa, where participants from all over the state were able to run the race on their own or as a group at their own chosen location.
First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu completed her virtual race at the State House, Marina with her entourage.
GOtv Boxing Night 21 to beamed live
NWFL threatens clubs over late registration

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