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Man, I just wanted to drop a line and say I love this channel. I've got an Akitika and Geshelli sitting on my shelf thanks to you and I enjoy them every day. Props to speaking about mental health in this video.
I’ve made my “final purchases” years ago. The most recent purchases I made were a streamer (the ultimate in exploring new music) and a replacement for a phono cartridge that was nearly 20 years old. These days my audio money is spent on music and the occasionally needed repair (last time I needed to have something serviced was 3-1/2 yrs ago and that was more due to component age- 47 years old- than any outright malfunction). I am a strong believer doing it right the first time is the cheapest long term solution to being happy with a system.
My military career spanned three decades and I can promise you, chronic depression is a byproduct of prolonged military service. Military life is rough on marriages. Every two to three years, your spouse and kids have to pack everything up and move to a strange place. This is especially problematic with kids of a career military member, That in turn affects the military member often as much as his or her dependents. Thank you for mentioning this, Randy. Military service is often challenging on its own. Added stressors can become a heavier weight on its own.
Thank you for sharing. My Father was injured fighting Germans in France during WWII. Even though I didn't hear the phrase until I was watching a movie, I remember when we'd be fishing or hunting and such, he would on occasion, have that "thousand yard stare". He was a kind and gentle man. He self medicated with alcohol, and it eventually led to his demise. I didn't have to face the horrors of war, so I never once judged him for his alcohol consumption. May you be blessed sir.
@@davidjudd951 David, combat scars people in ways that are invisible to others. I've battled my own demons so I understand what your dad did to cope with those memories. War often damages the psyche of an entire generation of combatants and we deal with it the best we can. Most of us just suck it up and take solace in the fact that we share that burden with an entire generation. Often we recognize each other without saying a word. But life goes on as we re-enter a more gentle population. I consider serving in the military as a privilege, David and I've been blessed with a good life despite it all. Thank you for your kind and honest words. I appreciate it more than I can express.
The secrets are obviously: 1. Cable risers 2. Rare metal cables 3. Audiophile power outlets 4. HIFI network switches 5. Liquid contact enhancers.... and if your not already running your system completely on AAA batteries I highly suggest it. Thanks for the video Randy!
My 5 secrets are: 1. Unlimited budget 2. Must be single 3. Must own you own home 4. No neighbors within a one mile radius 5. Car audio must sound as good as your home system. Now that's a happy Audiophile 😄
I didn't realize you were a fellow veteran. Thank you for your service brother. Lost my former Father-in-law to the 22 a couple years back and far too many others...
Damn fine video, sir. I actually needed some of this sort of wisdom when it comes to deciding on what to get next for my two channel system at home. It’s so tempting to splurge too often and get too caught up in the gear and to sometimes forget about the damn music. Thank you for this moment of clarity.
Hi Randy, thanks for the audio dialogue! I enjoy, in order, you, Darko and the Audiophiliac. My friends and I binge listen and tweak and improve our stereos. I’m currently enjoying 4.3 Wharfedales, a Topping LA90, and E50 with an old Mac Mini, server-modified with an SSD and Audirvāna. Don’t stream but enjoy building my own collection. It’s not really cheap but I think tips led to better bang for buck and suits our own sound. Entertaining ourselves with maybe our last systems, we’re the “baby boomers”!😊
My 3 free improvements. 1. Couch of the back wall. A more enveloping sound stage 2. Rear or front ported speakers. Stereo speakers always sound better away from boundary interference of walls. 3. Big room... absorption. Small room... diffusion. Especially if one's trying to keep depth within the two channels sound stage.
You nailed it, my friend... my brother (RIP) was the champion of "lateral moves", making multiple purchases within a year's time, every year, because a particular product had another bell or whistle that he inevitably never used! My advice to "Be patient" was vehemently ignored, and he eventually wasted thousands, maybe tens of thousands over a 50 year span. The only saving grace was that his little brother (that be me), was available for all of his hand-me-downs!🤗
Thank you for talking about what our veteran brothers and sisters struggle with. Even those of us that can deal with our issues still struggle with memories and images that just pop into our heads on a daily basis.
I’m a USAF vet who has definitely experienced my share of mental health and addiction issues. Thanks for spreading the word about mental health and programs available.
As a returning ancient audiophile of the 1980s I have to pretty much agree with everything Randy says here. Delayed gratification with a bit of extra savings will also sometimes float the budget for that next component JUST enough to go up the extra little bit to get exactly what you want as opposed to what you afford in the moment. Still rocking my HK receiver, cassette and the Bose Series III 601s I purchased new on September 5, 1986. These Bose still sound amazing. As a laugh I hooked those same 601s to my mini A/V system which is a 27" Samsung 4k monitor, Sony BDP-S3700 Bluray, Apple TV 4k, WiiM Mini, SMSL SU-1, Fosi Audio BT20A Pro (Sparesy Oracle II 02 op amps) and a little pair of Jamo S801s which I swapped out for the 601s as a lark and it was GLORIOUS. Those fossil boxes all but got up and moshed when I played some White Zombie through them. There's a reason I've kept them around nearly 40 years.
I really enjoy the shows you create, and this episode was a good guide in system purchases. But for me the speakers are the # 1 core item, and good ones will last for decades.
very very fruitful advice to not make sideways moves or baby steps, make giant steps!!! when you can buy even on the used market you can build a great budget system like a good pair of used speakers , receiver or intergrated but i would buy a cheat new cd player then stream!! just other food for thought , much appreciation to you randy for telling the cold truth , hope everyone listening lamp was on lol!! retired bm !!
All great advice, Randy! Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge and experience. I will tell you, my "core purchase" was a pair of Def Tech BP10's back in 1997. Still sounds amazing. I bought a SONY ES receiver with them at the time and have just updated receivers. Currently on the ZA3000ES. The BP10s still sound amazing to my ears. I'm still working on the "being satisfied with your system thing, because I always get the bug to try something new. LOL.
9:04 A few years back I decided that the Klipsch Forte IV would be my endgame.... But in the past few months I started to gravitate towards the Heresy IV, based on stellar reviews. Yesterday I picked up a pair of used La Scalas (the pro type, not the fancy new ones) for ca. the same amount as a single brand new Heresy retails for! Klipsch has next to no footprint where I live and this is literally the first time I've seen a used pair of any kind of Klipsch pop up! I plan to build a very decent (if inconvenient) system around those speakers and pray they still have a good decade in them 🙏🙏🙏
6. Don't cancel strengths. I've known a lot of half-serious audiophiles in my life and one of the mistakes that I see being made over and over is when people think that they will prefer the sound of contradictory components, such as a forward-leaning amp and darker speakers. In my experience this is almost always a mistake because, even if the resulting sound is more balanced -- which is no guarantee -- it's all coming at you from a lower median level of performance. Instead find a sonic philosophy that suits your palate and stay true to it from source to speaker. One of my favourite examples of this is when Tarun played the Naim Nait 5si with his long-term-demo Amphion Argon 1 speakers. It shouldn't have worked as a combination because the end result should have been too bright, but not a bit of it.
You made some good points 👍. One point of view, which I know you are aware of but did not mention this time - how much equipment can come from Goodwill store for pennies. Today I just bought 10 yr old PSB Sub-sat original retailed for $730 + tax. I paid $14 + tax, ha!!!
After over 55 years in audio, I did change many systems but mainly the sources such as LP, Reel-to-Reel, Cassettes, Mini Discs, CDs, and DAP players. As I worked in 20 countries sometimes the shipping was a bit expensive therefore I sold some of the heavy equipment. Now I'm close to 75 years old and have come to the conclusion that the core is an all-in-one unit with BluOs , DAC, Roon Ready, and Wi-Fi connection, can be upgraded by modules avoids cable salad, is easy to use doesn't take much space is convenient a decent speaker and CD player(still have over 1300 CDs). Download still music (mostly Band-camp)don't buy CDs anymore because the cost of shipping is ridiculous. My home is in Bali therefore one reason shipping is expensive from the US or Europe. As you can imagine my listing rooms changed 20 times?
The biggest “ misconception “ in the audio world is that it’s “ about the music”. When let’s face it, it’s about buying more and more gear. It never ends it just never ends😅
Depends if you’re an “audiophile” or not. Most people use audio components to listen to their music. Audiophiles use music to listen to their audio components.
I have to admit, you learned a lot in you’re journey, the word focal wouldn’t of come out of your mouth when you first started your channel. The problem that I’m having is when you started, you were against the word audiophile & everyone who said they were an audiophile. Yet you are now an audiophile. I hope you get more then 200k soon. I’m a 72 year old experienced listener of cd’s, lp’s & streaming. & I purchased new equipment that you recommended. I have my older gear in a dedicated room. I’ve been using magnepan speakers in a 25 feet by 16 foot room, the speakers are 6 feet from the back wall. my newer stuff is in the living room with the streamer.
Thank you Randy. I've learned that saving and waiting is the way to go. The bad feeling of living with a lesser product, when you could've had more with patience, never goes away. Saving and waiting also makes a person a much better and more sensible shopper. Especially if you're waiting to save up and have the cash to back the purchase. Parting with cold hard cash, forces one to apply logic more aptly. And you're correct, the gratification of patient ownership, is exponentially higher than impulse purchases. Most of us have all given into that bug at a point in our lives, and jumped on that perfect something before we should've. Every time we go to enjoy it, that little guilt ruins the full pleasure. It's that thought of "Man, I love this, but I really should've taken care of that honey do for the wife first guilt".
I’m in a journey, so about ten years ago now, my wife bought me a lp60 that I hooked up to my little all in one Sony shelf system with cd player and a iPod dock. I upgraded to a uturn plus and Pluto. I had some old klh speakers that I fitted to the weird Sony connects. I then upgraded carts from the stock ort om5e to a grado black and upgraded through a green 3 where I am today. Upgraded to Elac b6.2. Then I auditioned a great phono stage and my amp hindered it. So now I have a nad c 3050. Just got the mdc2 so will step into room correction and hi res digital when I install that. Next will probably be. Klipsch fortes, then a phono stage (several options I like there) and then table maybe a vpi or a vérete. Then I will maybe upgrade another set of analytical speakers for classical play because I have a b on the 3050. Anyhow… I agree with Randy on core component and vision board.
Buying used is an excellent way to build a quality system. Many people afflicted with the dreaded “ upgradeitis” move their immaculate products on regularly leaving bargains to be had. I’ve had many many ( many) products over the decades, a mix of new and used. My current speakers when new were AUD$24k, 6 years old in perfect condition $9.5k. My amplifier was over $5k, the owner “ upgraded “ to tubes and misspelt the brand in his ad. I spotted it and $1.3k later….you get the picture. New isn’t best bang for buck in many instances. Most audiophiles take exceptional care of their equipment and there are little to no advances in speaker tech so put used on your wish list as well.
I recently discovered vintage gear... I put together one helluva a system for $1350. A 1970 Sansui 4000 receiver, a pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekend speakers and a WiiM Pro. I found the Zu's and Sansui used locally, was able to audition before purchasing. I added the WiiM Pro, Thanks Randy! Add a TT to this setup, plenty out there and I found Audio Nirvana. These old Sansui units are incredible with vinyl, as that was what they were designed for. Vintage and used gear folks, US Audio Mart is a good place to start.
50 years ago I heard the most incredible system. As you state, I set my sights and worked my way up to replicate that system. Last year I finally got there. I'm now running a complete Phase Linear system, The 700 amp, 5100 tuner, 4000 preamp, Technics turntable, and Marantz CD. All playing through a set of JBL L-7's. All the components have been recapped, and a speaker protection circuit added to the Amp. During those 50 years I kept adding good quality Vinyl to my collection. I love my sound, and have a fantastic album collection to play on it. I haven't had a thought of upgrading since. As they saying goes "On the 7th day I rested".. LOL keep up the good advice.
Great advice for aspiring audiophiles! Thanks also for that shout out to the vets. My damages were more physical than cerebral, but I've seen plenty the other way around, and I think that's harder - it's tough to explain 'invisible' disabilities, especially to family and friends that haven't served. I've lived with mine since '71. It's nice to know there are people out there to talk to that 'get' it.
Question: Why do you say, "I wouldn't make your core product your speakers" ? Request you to explain the reasoning behind that statement advising against making speakers the core product. I liked the idea of overspending on a core product and building the other components of the system around it at a lesser price. Very nice video filled with a lot of wisdom.
My vinyl set up is going to stick around for a long time. I'm really happy with my lounge audio lcr and pioneer plx 1000. I can't imagine anything sounding better without spends thousands more on each component.
I am a firm believer in the core product idea. I actually have a JVC DD-7 cassette deck that is last purchase that has been refurbished and a Yamaha A760 that has the features I need to incorporate the JVC and an LG 4K Blu-ray player with open option of adding a turntable later on.
That DD-7 is a nice deck...unfortunately mine started to spill its guts on to the circuit boards and don't have the funds . Really miss it...even though it still works, just think it would be foolish to use it. I can tell the difference from the tapes I made with it and clearly the best deck I have. Going to have to pick up some new skills.
@@stevengagnon4777 My first JVC cassette deck was a Magnavox CD1776, I believe. The second was a KD-65 from Lafayette, and the third was an A7 3-head deck. I bought it new and it ran for 25 years before the belts cut loose. The DD-7 was an eBày purchase and ran for 3 months before quitting due to the faulty capacitor on the Direct Drive board. I won't buy anything else when it comes to a quality cassette deck.
My own Top 5 (some overlap): 1. Your dream setup might not sound like what you had in mind. Go out and listen or demo stuff at home, learn what it is that you want, but more importantly what will work for your space. 2. Aspire and save up. Don't squander money on lateral changes or incremental upgrades along the way. It's only going to prolong the way to your endgame or end up making it impossible. 3. Open your mind up to buying vintage, there is a wealth of very capable sounding, beautifully built, preloved gear out there. Compare and buy smart. It can be a worthy investment, as used gear doesn't typically fluctuate in price much. Unless you are well-informed, confident in your technical abilities, or budget for repairs, only search for well maintained and/or revised components. Don't buy into a headache. 4. If you're happy with the sound of your system, then stop, and just enjoy the music. 5. Consider budgeting for a broader set of gear, multiple sources, amps and/or speakers to fit your lifestyle, needs and moods. Unless you are very much focussed on achieving peak performance in your listening space and know exactly what you want, the flexibilty of having different setups can be wonderful. That way you can have your cake and it eat too!
Can I ask a stupid question? Good. I had to stack my two different-sized and different-powered subwoofers in order to get my new speaker stands to fit in my room. Now it seems like I get a bit more "boom" It's been said that you get a 6 Db boost when you do that...now the meat of the issue...does the 6 Db boost mean it goes to a lower frequency 6 dBs or it just gets louder by 6 dBs? I get a new power amp tomorrow to add to my AVR (putting it into pre-amp mode) and will do a new Adyssey setup. I have a feeling it will change everything.
I have a Mac Mini M2 (2023). It has 2 x Thunderbolt 4's, 1 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A's (useless, really) and 1 x 3.5 headphone jack. So what is the best way to connect this to a DAC/Amp combo unit for some passive desktop speakers? I see many DAC/Amp's have an optical, a USB Type B (the square looking one), and a coax. What is the best connection to use in this setup? Should I try to make use of the HDMI or one of the Thunderbolt 4's? Could really use guidance on this. Thank you kindly.
As a fellow vet (Desert Storm) I appreciate you calling out mental health issues and the help that is in fact out there. And as always, great content !
Did my research, sold my Roksan Attessa turntable, then pulled the trigger on a 2nd hand but mint condition Funk Firm Little Super Deck, and a new Origin Live Discovery One phono pre. Many thanks for the sage advice :)
Thank you so much for bringing awareness to mental health! I struggle with my own ongoing issues, as do many others, but your channel always brings a smile! Hats off to our military service members and veterans - my thoughts and prayers are with you all! Never be afraid to reach out for help!
Thanks. I’m new and bought some cheap stuff you talked about in previous videos. When you talk about the decent good better best it would be nice if you’d consider giving everything that label for us newbs.
This was a really great and helpful video. Nice work and I agree with the sentiments, especially about no lateral moves and checking the tendency to just buy stuff
Thank you for sharing your information. I'm trying to get back component base audio station and away from wireless phone RUclips music streaming. I have become too ignorant and trying to re-educate myself. You are great. I have components from back in the late 80s and early 90s to start with, but I need to update them. Take care 🎉
I like your Audio and wristwatch videos, but focusing on suicide awareness was the tops. Did not expect that in your channel. Great job! I appreciate you even more
This could've been "6 secrets." A couple of decades ago I was introduced to Meridian by a dealer. While it was way above my price range, I got to love it more and more over time (as the dealer let me come in during slow hours and watch movies or listen to music). To make this short, by expanding a network of dealers I was able to get (really) great deals on used Meridian gear, and built a great system that lasted for a long time. I've downsized it, now, due to a different living space, but the core of the system is still Meridian. This isn't about Meridian specifically, it's about the used market - where someone might be able to level up much more easily than they think. Getting "better" or "great" gear at a much lower price is still, apparently, a secret - and I'd have no qualms about getting the "better" components of, say, 2-3 years ago at a "good" price.
Thanks for the shout-out for veterans mental health. I struggle. The VA hotline is great. If you just want to chat, you can. You don’t have to be at rock bottom. I call a few times a year, great people on the phone!
Lateral moves / side grades can be ok if you know what you are looking for. So much of this hobby and personal preference plays a huge part of what you will like. So its not always about upgrading from ok, to good, to great, ect sometimes its about finding what suits you even if its in the same price category.
Good video as per usual. I think I found my final system. Might do 2 more upgrades tho. Currently I’m running a Rogue Audio RP5 preamp with the Rogue St100 poweramp. Might upgrade the Rp5 to RP7 since it’s balanced. For digital I got Gustard x16 dac and the matching usb interface. Cds are playing in a Denon RCD 1572. Everything else digital comes from a MacBook. For analog I got a Transrotor Massimo Nero. And a Fluance R85N which is run over a Fosi x2 for old rough shape vinyl. Speakers are Klipsch Quartets and 2 s-10 subs. And minus the two planned upgrades, I couldn’t be happier.😊
I bought the Emotiva xpa-2 gen 3 amp and the Eversolo dmp-a6 streamer and I could listen to different songs everyday for the rest of my life and still not hear every song ever made. O also KLH-5 speakers👍🏻
That's a nice mix, I just sold my Model 5's and was running those with a variety of amps, the Emotiva XPA-2 was my favorite, even bested the Parasound A23+.
@@raymoore8435 They were difficult to part with, which I did. They were replaced by a pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekends I found locally. I have since upgraded to the Zu DW6 Supremes. I have the Zu's paired with a vintage 1970 Sansui 4000 receiver. The bass is incredible, the midrange is airy and tube like and the top end is natural sounding, while very detailed. The Model 5's were not even in the same league at the end of the day. But still, a great speaker.
Hey Randy, just watched this video on building a great system. That is exactly what I'm trying to do. Thanks and man I'm so sorry I did enter more than once.
As a fellow veteran (USAF) with numerous friends and family members who are also vets, I can't thank you enough for helping to shine a spotlight on the mental health issues and the need for action.
I would add that if you can buy something that has a way to be upgraded, then that is wise. On an integrated amp, get one that has pre-outs, and/or has a sub out, or can have different op-amps plugged in. Later, you can get a power amp, and keep using the integrated as a preamp. With new op-amps, you can seriously improve the integrated amp's sound quality. You can get a CD player that has digital output(s) so you can add a DAC later, etc. And similarly, you can get a streamer with both analog and digital outputs, and add a DAC later.
My best friend and a fellow submariner ET took his own life. 20 years later and it still affects me deeply. I always thought I could advocate for suicide awareness but I’m too weak because it’s so much of a dark area of my soul. It’s so painful! Thanks for advocating for those of us who can’t. And thanks so much for your awesome channel!
You are so spot on! I started out with about a $1000 budget & have had it for a year or so. I've been happy with it but I'm ready for upgrades to it. Great video! 🤘🏻
It's not my end game, but running kef q350 with bluesound powernode and paradigm 10 inch sub. Started with kanto Yu6. Yes it's a journey. Very enjoyable channel. All the best.
I agree about spending more on a "core" piece. One just has to know exactly what they are into or what their main medium will be...Vinyl, Digital, Tubes, 2 ch, Surround, etc. etc
There were 47 males in my high school class in 1969. 13 didn't come back from Vietnam, 17 dispatched themself within less than a year after returning to the states.
Thanks for another good video. This should've been put out about 6 months to a year ago so that I would've listened and wouldn't have just done the "spend, spend, spend"...lol. Side note...can you possibly do a video on the Arylic BP50? I just found out about it yesterday and ordered one. Looks like a pretty good option that I've been looking for...a preamp with HDMI. Will be hooking it up to my modified Insignia turntable (and the Fosi P3 that I'm waiting on from Kickstarter)...the Fosi V3 for power...and a pair of B&W M-1 mkII speakers to try out in my main living room. Still has a line in available so I will grab a Wiim for that...not sure if I want to go to the newest Pro Plus or if I want to save a few bucks there and add a different DAC...the SU-1 you recommend or a J2...I've been doing a pretty good budget system so probably the SU-1. Can always upgrade down the road sometime. This is more about me messing around and not spending a fortune to see what I can come up with rather than having the best of the best system. I'm just having fun with the budget pieces.
For movie and gaming use only, is moving from the flagship Polk RTi A9 to the Polk R700 a lateral move? I know it is an upgrade for music listening but I do not do that on my theater system.
The Ramones! I saw the Ramones in Lincoln Nebraska in 1980. Everyone was dancing in the isles and standing on the armrests of the concert hall seating. Wildest concert ever.
Cool that you saw THE band. I saw them around 85 in the Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver Canada. I could feel the floor bouncing. I was told their was some kind of fibre under the very old and original dance floor. Twenty feet away from Joey and the boys I was in pure joy mode.
@@cheapaudioman Actually, it must have been the Omaha Civic Auditorium April 29, 1980 but I'm not sure. I remember the seats were like an opera house with nice cushions and wooden arm rests. The floor sloped down to the stage maybe at a 7% angle. I was a junior at Lincoln South East and a senior had an extra ticket and asked me to tag along. We were on the wrestling team. I remember the girls were wearing animal prints. I'd been to a few concerts like The Doobie Brothers, The Cars and Heart but nothing I ever saw was like that Ramones concert. Nobody was sitting in their seat. Everyone was dancing.
hi, I'm very confused, I don't know which receiver to buy, I have an LG OLED C2 83 inch and a 5.1 Polk Audio Signature Elite, 2x es10 2x es20 1x es35 1x hts10, what do you recommend? ps I live in Belgium! I would be happy if you could help me, thanks
Hi guys i bought my first record player and i bought also the kef Q350s and im having a hard time what amp should i buy any suggestions ? (Price range 200 to 400)
I would say 60%of your budget should go to your speakers - you don't agree, but the backbone of any quality system is the quality of your speakers 2 - start with more than $1000.00 - good quality speakers can cost upwards of $1000.00. Shoot for the $2500.00 price range for flexibility. 3 - an AVR with pre outs leaves room to grow. Power and additional channels. And be sure you have HDMI 2.1 inputs to future proof your system. For say $1800.00, you can get an Onkyo RZ-50 and real quality speakers. Leaves you $700.00 for a center and height / rear speakers. Or a decent sub. JBL Sub550P is a great choice since it goes down to 27hz and has 300 watts RMS - normally $599.00 but always ends up on sale for $189.00. You don't have to go broke to get a great subwoofer.
Hi, I just watched your review of a cheap Sony DVD player vs. the $600 Rotel. Have you ever done a review or just looked at the Sony UBP-X800M2 universal player? Plays every disc format and built like a brick (by today's standards). I like my 2 🙂
Honestly, keeping it cheap is going both DIY and with DSP in some cases. This definitely doesn't mean buying everything new but buying second hand something that would be out of your reach comfortably speaking as new. Fix things, learn to fix new things or pay someone to fix 'em for you for a right price. Go to exhibitions to hear the difference (or not in case you have a kickass system 😁). When going secondhand and potentially buying something that is salvageable -> think first can you do it and do you have the tools required. If not then figure out do you want to go that way in any case and how much will that cost? What do you need to learn also - it can be something as easy as soldering. This hobby will be as expensive as much you are willing to pour money into it unless you think twice and trust for instance dull things as: - properly done measurements by yourself in your listening room or by someone else doing it for you - legit professional reviews about products - they are not in your room though as your starting points. Also remember that your room can be your "enemy" so without thinking about room acoustics it doesn't matter how much you pour money into equipment if you room dominates the
My answer to this was to get off the bus, as it were. And get a minidsp active crossover. I actually mved on and will do it in my PC source, but I'm a geek. Or get some Hypex plate amps and put them in some speaker stands. Once you have that gear, you can scratch the gear itch buy buying some MDF and new drivers (or even just a new combination from your parts bin) and having a good old tinker. Maybe start with a GR or CSS kit (or a PartsExpress one, or Madisound, whatever) and wire both drivers to the back and put the suppleid crossover in an external enclosure. Then you can listen as intended, twealk the crossover if you want, and play with different crossover topologies etc rather easily. Speakers are the bit of the replay that is most amenable to this sort of therapy. One drawback though - unless using amps with DSP built in that can ADC/crossover/DAC/amplify, then the source is constrained to ripped/stored music retrieved from disk or the internet. But I don't care - I buy CDs second hand from charity shops.
Good video. I respectfully disagree about making your speakers a core product. In my experience, a well made, decent sounding set of speakers can still sound great decades after they were made. My main system consists of several older B&W 600 series speakers (683 towers to be precise) and more then 10 years on, they still sound wonderful. I’ve replaced just about everything else in my system in the time since: new A/V receiver, new subwoofer, etc., but the speakers remain. If you have a set that sound great, I don’t see any reason they can’t be the core of your system.
Yeah, there's something to be said about having speakers you love. It also makes it much easier to try out other components, IMO, vs changing out your speakers (which might end up requiring changing out other components that aren't well-matched to those speakers).
If you view it as a hobby and you're buying AND selling and look at the difference as the actual cost I can see it being not that expensive in the long run. Golf costs you money every time you step on the course. If you pick up a pair of new or used speakers for $400 and use them for 12 months then sell them for $300 that's $8.33 a month for your hobby. Even if you do that in every category it's still not bad as long as you don't take a total bath. My next step in the hobby is to combine my beginner woodworking hobby with getting vintage speakers and fixing them up. Even if I "lose" money it's the satisfaction of the work that I'm seeking. I don't "need" any component right now but there's a pair of classic ADS speakers with some water damage to the cabinets an hour and a half away that keep calling me.
Just in case you're not aware, there are a lot of DIY speaker designs out there. Could be the perfect opportunity to combine your woodworking with speaker hobby.
@@danielh12345 it was Randy's review of the CSS products that led me to build two kits already. I think my next project will be a set of Klipsch Cornwall clones. That won't be a kit so it will be quite a learning experience.
@tmdillon1969 Thats cool! I'm contemplating making the Paul Carmody designed "Tarkus" in the future. Have made his Overnight sensations (kit with wood) twice now. Very fun. I just don't have a good space to make them now. Does the design you want to build have a name so I can find it? Thanks for the response!
@@danielh12345 I have not found a specific design yet. I can easily find a schematic for making the cabinets for the Cornwall 1s but I was hoping to make a more recent model. The horns changed with the new models. I've seen some builds but I'm of the impression they bought the drivers and then reverse-engineered the front baffle to fit them. So far the audio DIY pages haven't been a huge help. I've had some condescending responses to my questions so I may find myself also figuring out the front on my own.
Very wise advice. I would always put the majority of my budget into the source whatever that may be. I am a firm believer in the saying garbage in, garbage out and that mantra has served me well for the better part of 50 years.
A bit off topic, but possibly you could discuss options in future. --Would love to improve system by using my 100wpc ab power amp. Need a balance control in my system and the Wiim and stand along DAC's seem to have shunned that feature. Forces me to use my Onkyo integrated amp....boooo!
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Man, I just wanted to drop a line and say I love this channel. I've got an Akitika and Geshelli sitting on my shelf thanks to you and I enjoy them every day. Props to speaking about mental health in this video.
Randy, you are a good person plugging mental health. Thank you for all you do.
I’ve made my “final purchases” years ago. The most recent purchases I made were a streamer (the ultimate in exploring new music) and a replacement for a phono cartridge that was nearly 20 years old. These days my audio money is spent on music and the occasionally needed repair (last time I needed to have something serviced was 3-1/2 yrs ago and that was more due to component age- 47 years old- than any outright malfunction). I am a strong believer doing it right the first time is the cheapest long term solution to being happy with a system.
Yep, buy once-cry once!
My military career spanned three decades and I can promise you, chronic depression is a byproduct of prolonged military service. Military life is rough on marriages. Every two to three years, your spouse and kids have to pack everything up and move to a strange place. This is especially problematic with kids of a career military member, That in turn affects the military member often as much as his or her dependents. Thank you for mentioning this, Randy. Military service is often challenging on its own. Added stressors can become a heavier weight on its own.
My dad went through that as a kid, very disruptive for him.
God Bless you, and all our serving men, women, and veterans 🙏
Thank you for your service! You are appreciated!
@@mattrenn It was my absolute privilege Matt. Thank you
Thank you for sharing.
My Father was injured fighting Germans in France during WWII.
Even though I didn't hear the phrase until I was watching a movie, I remember when we'd be fishing or hunting and such, he would on occasion, have that "thousand yard stare".
He was a kind and gentle man.
He self medicated with alcohol, and it eventually led to his demise. I didn't have to face the horrors of war, so I never once judged him for his alcohol consumption.
May you be blessed sir.
@@davidjudd951 David, combat scars people in ways that are invisible to others. I've battled my own demons so I understand what your dad did to cope with those memories. War often damages the psyche of an entire generation of combatants and we deal with it the best we can. Most of us just suck it up and take solace in the fact that we share that burden with an entire generation. Often we recognize each other without saying a word. But life goes on as we re-enter a more gentle population.
I consider serving in the military as a privilege, David and I've been blessed with a good life despite it all. Thank you for your kind and honest words. I appreciate it more than I can express.
The secrets are obviously: 1. Cable risers 2. Rare metal cables 3. Audiophile power outlets 4. HIFI network switches 5. Liquid contact enhancers.... and if your not already running your system completely on AAA batteries I highly suggest it. Thanks for the video Randy!
Put crystal piramid under receiver
Oh man this is good info, time to remortgage the house!!!😂
@@TECHATER I dont know how I missed that one HA
@brianromska9369 you know what....
Are you going to cover that in your next video? LOL
My 5 secrets are:
1. Unlimited budget
2. Must be single
3. Must own you own home
4. No neighbors within a one mile radius
5. Car audio must sound as good as your home system.
Now that's a happy Audiophile 😄
That's about right.
I didn't realize you were a fellow veteran. Thank you for your service brother.
Lost my former Father-in-law to the 22 a couple years back and far too many others...
Damn fine video, sir. I actually needed some of this sort of wisdom when it comes to deciding on what to get next for my two channel system at home. It’s so tempting to splurge too often and get too caught up in the gear and to sometimes forget about the damn music. Thank you for this moment of clarity.
Hi Randy, thanks for the audio dialogue! I enjoy, in order, you, Darko and the Audiophiliac. My friends and I binge listen and tweak and improve our stereos. I’m currently enjoying 4.3 Wharfedales, a Topping LA90, and E50 with an old Mac Mini, server-modified with an SSD and Audirvāna. Don’t stream but enjoy building my own collection. It’s not really cheap but I think tips led to better bang for buck and suits our own sound. Entertaining ourselves with maybe our last systems, we’re the “baby boomers”!😊
My 3 free improvements.
1. Couch of the back wall.
A more enveloping sound stage
2. Rear or front ported speakers.
Stereo speakers always sound better away from boundary interference of walls.
3. Big room... absorption. Small room... diffusion. Especially if one's trying to keep depth within the two channels sound stage.
You nailed it, my friend... my brother (RIP) was the champion of "lateral moves", making multiple purchases within a year's time, every year, because a particular product had another bell or whistle that he inevitably never used! My advice to "Be patient" was vehemently ignored, and he eventually wasted thousands, maybe tens of thousands over a 50 year span. The only saving grace was that his little brother (that be me), was available for all of his hand-me-downs!🤗
Thank you for talking about what our veteran brothers and sisters struggle with. Even those of us that can deal with our issues still struggle with memories and images that just pop into our heads on a daily basis.
Thank you for sharing the 988, and Veterans Crisis Line Information!
I’m a USAF vet who has definitely experienced my share of mental health and addiction issues. Thanks for spreading the word about mental health and programs available.
Me too brother.. F-15 crew chief- 2 deployments shield/storm/southern watch. Thanks!
As a returning ancient audiophile of the 1980s I have to pretty much agree with everything Randy says here. Delayed gratification with a bit of extra savings will also sometimes float the budget for that next component JUST enough to go up the extra little bit to get exactly what you want as opposed to what you afford in the moment.
Still rocking my HK receiver, cassette and the Bose Series III 601s I purchased new on September 5, 1986. These Bose still sound amazing.
As a laugh I hooked those same 601s to my mini A/V system which is a 27" Samsung 4k monitor, Sony BDP-S3700 Bluray, Apple TV 4k, WiiM Mini, SMSL SU-1, Fosi Audio BT20A Pro (Sparesy Oracle II 02 op amps) and a little pair of Jamo S801s which I swapped out for the 601s as a lark and it was GLORIOUS.
Those fossil boxes all but got up and moshed when I played some White Zombie through them. There's a reason I've kept them around nearly 40 years.
I really enjoy the shows you create, and this episode was a good guide in system purchases. But for me the speakers are the # 1 core item, and good ones will last for decades.
Really appreciate your content. Thanks for the shout-out regarding veterans and mental health.
very very fruitful advice to not make sideways moves or baby steps, make giant steps!!! when you can buy even on the used market you can build a great budget system like a good pair of used speakers , receiver or intergrated but i would buy a cheat new cd player then stream!! just other food for thought , much appreciation to you randy for telling the cold truth , hope everyone listening lamp was on lol!! retired bm !!
All great advice, Randy! Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge and experience. I will tell you, my "core purchase" was a pair of Def Tech BP10's back in 1997. Still sounds amazing. I bought a SONY ES receiver with them at the time and have just updated receivers. Currently on the ZA3000ES. The BP10s still sound amazing to my ears. I'm still working on the "being satisfied with your system thing, because I always get the bug to try something new. LOL.
9:04 A few years back I decided that the Klipsch Forte IV would be my endgame.... But in the past few months I started to gravitate towards the Heresy IV, based on stellar reviews. Yesterday I picked up a pair of used La Scalas (the pro type, not the fancy new ones) for ca. the same amount as a single brand new Heresy retails for! Klipsch has next to no footprint where I live and this is literally the first time I've seen a used pair of any kind of Klipsch pop up!
I plan to build a very decent (if inconvenient) system around those speakers and pray they still have a good decade in them 🙏🙏🙏
Great Advice!!! Thank you Randy! 👍👍👍
6. Don't cancel strengths.
I've known a lot of half-serious audiophiles in my life and one of the mistakes that I see being made over and over is when people think that they will prefer the sound of contradictory components, such as a forward-leaning amp and darker speakers. In my experience this is almost always a mistake because, even if the resulting sound is more balanced -- which is no guarantee -- it's all coming at you from a lower median level of performance. Instead find a sonic philosophy that suits your palate and stay true to it from source to speaker. One of my favourite examples of this is when Tarun played the Naim Nait 5si with his long-term-demo Amphion Argon 1 speakers. It shouldn't have worked as a combination because the end result should have been too bright, but not a bit of it.
@Click-Here-To-Massage-____ If it's not a really vicious dose of the clap, I ain't fuckin interested.
You made some good points 👍. One point of view, which I know you are aware of but did not mention this time - how much equipment can come from Goodwill store for pennies. Today I just bought 10 yr old PSB Sub-sat original retailed for $730 + tax. I paid $14 + tax, ha!!!
After over 55 years in audio, I did change many systems but mainly the sources such as LP, Reel-to-Reel, Cassettes, Mini Discs, CDs, and DAP players. As I worked in 20 countries sometimes the shipping was a bit expensive therefore I sold some of the heavy equipment. Now I'm close to 75 years old and have come to the conclusion that the core is an all-in-one unit with BluOs , DAC, Roon Ready, and Wi-Fi connection, can be upgraded by modules avoids cable salad, is easy to use doesn't take much space is convenient a decent speaker and CD player(still have over 1300 CDs). Download still music (mostly Band-camp)don't buy CDs anymore because the cost of shipping is ridiculous. My home is in Bali therefore one reason shipping is expensive from the US or Europe. As you can imagine my listing rooms changed 20 times?
The biggest “ misconception “ in the audio world is that it’s “ about the music”. When let’s face it, it’s about buying more and more gear. It never ends it just never ends😅
My record and cd collections beg to differ.
Depends if you’re an “audiophile” or not. Most people use audio components to listen to their music. Audiophiles use music to listen to their audio components.
People collect cars, watches, wine, antiques, art, whiskey, glassware, books. For some audiophiles, it's about collecting gear, and that's okay.
I have to admit, you learned a lot in you’re journey, the word focal wouldn’t of come out of your mouth when you first started your channel. The problem that I’m having is when you started, you were against the word audiophile & everyone who said they were an audiophile. Yet you are now an audiophile. I hope you get more then 200k soon. I’m a 72 year old experienced listener of cd’s, lp’s & streaming. & I purchased new equipment that you recommended. I have my older gear in a dedicated room. I’ve been using magnepan speakers in a 25 feet by 16 foot room, the speakers are 6 feet from the back wall. my newer stuff is in the living room with the streamer.
Thank you Randy. I've learned that saving and waiting is the way to go.
The bad feeling of living with a lesser product, when you could've had more with patience, never goes away.
Saving and waiting also makes a person a much better and more sensible shopper. Especially if you're waiting to save up and have the cash to back the purchase.
Parting with cold hard cash, forces one to apply logic more aptly.
And you're correct, the gratification of patient ownership, is exponentially higher than impulse purchases.
Most of us have all given into that bug at a point in our lives, and jumped on that perfect something before we should've.
Every time we go to enjoy it, that little guilt ruins the full pleasure. It's that thought of "Man, I love this, but I really should've taken care of that honey do for the wife first guilt".
I’m in a journey, so about ten years ago now, my wife bought me a lp60 that I hooked up to my little all in one Sony shelf system with cd player and a iPod dock. I upgraded to a uturn plus and Pluto. I had some old klh speakers that I fitted to the weird Sony connects. I then upgraded carts from the stock ort om5e to a grado black and upgraded through a green 3 where I am today. Upgraded to Elac b6.2. Then I auditioned a great phono stage and my amp hindered it. So now I have a nad c 3050. Just got the mdc2 so will step into room correction and hi res digital when I install that. Next will probably be. Klipsch fortes, then a phono stage (several options I like there) and then table maybe a vpi or a vérete. Then I will maybe upgrade another set of analytical speakers for classical play because I have a b on the 3050. Anyhow… I agree with Randy on core component and vision board.
I love this. I think this is the best audio advice I've heard yet. Esp from audio reviewers.
Buying used is an excellent way to build a quality system. Many people afflicted with the dreaded “ upgradeitis” move their immaculate products on regularly leaving bargains to be had. I’ve had many many ( many) products over the decades, a mix of new and used. My current speakers when new were AUD$24k, 6 years old in perfect condition $9.5k. My amplifier was over $5k, the owner “ upgraded “ to tubes and misspelt the brand in his ad. I spotted it and $1.3k later….you get the picture. New isn’t best bang for buck in many instances. Most audiophiles take exceptional care of their equipment and there are little to no advances in speaker tech so put used on your wish list as well.
A couple years ago, I scored a pair of Klipsch Forte 2 at Salvation Army store for $200. My dad now has the best "barn system" in the entire world!
I recently discovered vintage gear... I put together one helluva a system for $1350. A 1970 Sansui 4000 receiver, a pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekend speakers and a WiiM Pro. I found the Zu's and Sansui used locally, was able to audition before purchasing. I added the WiiM Pro, Thanks Randy! Add a TT to this setup, plenty out there and I found Audio Nirvana. These old Sansui units are incredible with vinyl, as that was what they were designed for. Vintage and used gear folks, US Audio Mart is a good place to start.
50 years ago I heard the most incredible system. As you state, I set my sights and worked my way up to replicate that system. Last year I finally got there. I'm now running a complete Phase Linear system, The 700 amp, 5100 tuner, 4000 preamp, Technics turntable, and Marantz CD. All playing through a set of JBL L-7's. All the components have been recapped, and a speaker protection circuit added to the Amp. During those 50 years I kept adding good quality Vinyl to my collection. I love my sound, and have a fantastic album collection to play on it. I haven't had a thought of upgrading since. As they saying goes "On the 7th day I rested".. LOL keep up the good advice.
Great advice for aspiring audiophiles! Thanks also for that shout out to the vets. My damages were more physical than cerebral, but I've seen plenty the other way around, and I think that's harder - it's tough to explain 'invisible' disabilities, especially to family and friends that haven't served. I've lived with mine since '71. It's nice to know there are people out there to talk to that 'get' it.
Question: Why do you say, "I wouldn't make your core product your speakers" ? Request you to explain the reasoning behind that statement advising against making speakers the core product. I liked the idea of overspending on a core product and building the other components of the system around it at a lesser price. Very nice video filled with a lot of wisdom.
My vinyl set up is going to stick around for a long time. I'm really happy with my lounge audio lcr and pioneer plx 1000. I can't imagine anything sounding better without spends thousands more on each component.
I am a firm believer in the core product idea. I actually have a JVC DD-7 cassette deck that is last purchase that has been refurbished and a Yamaha A760 that has the features I need to incorporate the JVC and an LG 4K Blu-ray player with open option of adding a turntable later on.
That DD-7 is a nice deck...unfortunately mine started to spill its guts on to the circuit boards and don't have the funds . Really miss it...even though it still works, just think it would be foolish to use it. I can tell the difference from the tapes I made with it and clearly the best deck I have. Going to have to pick up some new skills.
@@stevengagnon4777 My first JVC cassette deck was a Magnavox CD1776, I believe. The second was a KD-65 from Lafayette, and the third was an A7 3-head deck. I bought it new and it ran for 25 years before the belts cut loose. The DD-7 was an eBày purchase and ran for 3 months before quitting due to the faulty capacitor on the Direct Drive board. I won't buy anything else when it comes to a quality cassette deck.
My Emotiva TA-100 is my core. Love this amp. 4 years and zero issues. Second is my Technics Sl-1200 MK 5.
Speakers are my weakness. Still searching...
My own Top 5 (some overlap):
1. Your dream setup might not sound like what you had in mind. Go out and listen or demo stuff at home, learn what it is that you want, but more importantly what will work for your space.
2. Aspire and save up. Don't squander money on lateral changes or incremental upgrades along the way. It's only going to prolong the way to your endgame or end up making it impossible.
3. Open your mind up to buying vintage, there is a wealth of very capable sounding, beautifully built, preloved gear out there. Compare and buy smart. It can be a worthy investment, as used gear doesn't typically fluctuate in price much. Unless you are well-informed, confident in your technical abilities, or budget for repairs, only search for well maintained and/or revised components. Don't buy into a headache.
4. If you're happy with the sound of your system, then stop, and just enjoy the music.
5. Consider budgeting for a broader set of gear, multiple sources, amps and/or speakers to fit your lifestyle, needs and moods. Unless you are very much focussed on achieving peak performance in your listening space and know exactly what you want, the flexibilty of having different setups can be wonderful. That way you can have your cake and it eat too!
Thank you for supporting mental health and speaking about it so people don’t feel so weird to have mental stuff
Love the work you put in
Can I ask a stupid question? Good. I had to stack my two different-sized and different-powered subwoofers in order to get my new speaker stands to fit in my room. Now it seems like I get a bit more "boom" It's been said that you get a 6 Db boost when you do that...now the meat of the issue...does the 6 Db boost mean it goes to a lower frequency 6 dBs or it just gets louder by 6 dBs? I get a new power amp tomorrow to add to my AVR (putting it into pre-amp mode) and will do a new Adyssey setup. I have a feeling it will change everything.
The 5 secrets.... Chinese, Chinese, Chinese, Chinese and Schiit Audio, my guess 🤪 Love to cheapaudioman.
I have a Mac Mini M2 (2023). It has 2 x Thunderbolt 4's, 1 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A's (useless, really) and 1 x 3.5 headphone jack. So what is the best way to connect this to a DAC/Amp combo unit for some passive desktop speakers? I see many DAC/Amp's have an optical, a USB Type B (the square looking one), and a coax. What is the best connection to use in this setup? Should I try to make use of the HDMI or one of the Thunderbolt 4's? Could really use guidance on this. Thank you kindly.
Love the channel. Thanks for all you do Randy!
Thank You
As a fellow vet (Desert Storm) I appreciate you calling out mental health issues and the help that is in fact out there.
And as always, great content !
Did my research, sold my Roksan Attessa turntable, then pulled the trigger on a 2nd hand but mint condition Funk Firm Little Super Deck, and a new Origin Live Discovery One phono pre. Many thanks for the sage advice :)
CAM - you rock - thanks for always being awesome
Great advice. Thanks for your continuous support for our vets!
Thank you, Dan!
Thank you so much for bringing awareness to mental health! I struggle with my own ongoing issues, as do many others, but your channel always brings a smile! Hats off to our military service members and veterans - my thoughts and prayers are with you all! Never be afraid to reach out for help!
Thanks. I’m new and bought some cheap stuff you talked about in previous videos. When you talk about the decent good better best it would be nice if you’d consider giving everything that label for us newbs.
This was a really great and helpful video. Nice work and I agree with the sentiments, especially about no lateral moves and checking the tendency to just buy stuff
Thank you for sharing your information. I'm trying to get back component base audio station and away from wireless phone RUclips music streaming. I have become too ignorant and trying to re-educate myself. You are great. I have components from back in the late 80s and early 90s to start with, but I need to update them. Take care 🎉
I like your Audio and wristwatch videos, but focusing on suicide awareness was the tops. Did not expect that in your channel. Great job! I appreciate you even more
Appreciate it. It’s an important thing to talk about
Great tips! Thank you!
My core products are Emotiva speakers and RSL subwoofers! Thank you CAM!
The decent / good / better / best method is GREAT for all aspects of life and budgeting
This could've been "6 secrets." A couple of decades ago I was introduced to Meridian by a dealer. While it was way above my price range, I got to love it more and more over time (as the dealer let me come in during slow hours and watch movies or listen to music). To make this short, by expanding a network of dealers I was able to get (really) great deals on used Meridian gear, and built a great system that lasted for a long time. I've downsized it, now, due to a different living space, but the core of the system is still Meridian. This isn't about Meridian specifically, it's about the used market - where someone might be able to level up much more easily than they think. Getting "better" or "great" gear at a much lower price is still, apparently, a secret - and I'd have no qualms about getting the "better" components of, say, 2-3 years ago at a "good" price.
Thanks for the shout-out for veterans mental health. I struggle. The VA hotline is great. If you just want to chat, you can. You don’t have to be at rock bottom. I call a few times a year, great people on the phone!
Lateral moves / side grades can be ok if you know what you are looking for. So much of this hobby and personal preference plays a huge part of what you will like. So its not always about upgrading from ok, to good, to great, ect sometimes its about finding what suits you even if its in the same price category.
Good video as per usual.
I think I found my final system. Might do 2 more upgrades tho.
Currently I’m running a Rogue Audio RP5 preamp with the Rogue St100 poweramp. Might upgrade the Rp5 to RP7 since it’s balanced.
For digital I got Gustard x16 dac and the matching usb interface.
Cds are playing in a Denon RCD 1572. Everything else digital comes from a MacBook.
For analog I got a Transrotor Massimo Nero. And a Fluance R85N which is run over a Fosi x2 for old rough shape vinyl.
Speakers are Klipsch Quartets and 2 s-10 subs. And minus the two planned upgrades, I couldn’t be happier.😊
I bought the Emotiva xpa-2 gen 3 amp and the Eversolo dmp-a6 streamer and I could listen to different songs everyday for the rest of my life and still not hear every song ever made. O also KLH-5 speakers👍🏻
That's a nice mix, I just sold my Model 5's and was running those with a variety of amps, the Emotiva XPA-2 was my favorite, even bested the Parasound A23+.
@@michaelwright1602You didn’t like them ?
@@raymoore8435 They were difficult to part with, which I did. They were replaced by a pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekends I found locally. I have since upgraded to the Zu DW6 Supremes. I have the Zu's paired with a vintage 1970 Sansui 4000 receiver. The bass is incredible, the midrange is airy and tube like and the top end is natural sounding, while very detailed. The Model 5's were not even in the same league at the end of the day. But still, a great speaker.
Hey Randy, just watched this video on building a great system. That is exactly what I'm trying to do. Thanks and man I'm so sorry I did enter more than once.
I need a stylus for my 1967 Magnavox console stereo/record player. Have had no luck locating one. Where should I look?
As a fellow veteran (USAF) with numerous friends and family members who are also vets, I can't thank you enough for helping to shine a spotlight on the mental health issues and the need for action.
I would add that if you can buy something that has a way to be upgraded, then that is wise. On an integrated amp, get one that has pre-outs, and/or has a sub out, or can have different op-amps plugged in. Later, you can get a power amp, and keep using the integrated as a preamp. With new op-amps, you can seriously improve the integrated amp's sound quality.
You can get a CD player that has digital output(s) so you can add a DAC later, etc. And similarly, you can get a streamer with both analog and digital outputs, and add a DAC later.
much love brother for all that you do
My core product is the MiniDSP Flex. It functions as dac, eq, preamp, and sub management in a 2.2 system
Ugh, lateral moves... I hang my head in shame. At least I'm a budgetphile. Kudos to you on the veteran suicide information. Keep up the great work.
My best friend and a fellow submariner ET took his own life. 20 years later and it still affects me deeply. I always thought I could advocate for suicide awareness but I’m too weak because it’s so much of a dark area of my soul. It’s so painful! Thanks for advocating for those of us who can’t. And thanks so much for your awesome channel!
Great reviews/videos! Entertaining AND informative!!
But Dali Spektor 1s or Oberon 1s?
Thanks for the mental health plug!!!
You are so spot on! I started out with about a $1000 budget & have had it for a year or so. I've been happy with it but I'm ready for upgrades to it. Great video! 🤘🏻
It's not my end game, but running kef q350 with bluesound powernode and paradigm 10 inch sub. Started with kanto Yu6. Yes it's a journey. Very enjoyable channel. All the best.
I agree about spending more on a "core" piece. One just has to know exactly what they are into or what their main medium will be...Vinyl, Digital, Tubes, 2 ch, Surround, etc. etc
My equipment is all about 20 to 25 years old now..Is it out of date? Do I have to get new equipment or does it depend on what I have?
There were 47 males in my high school class in 1969. 13 didn't come back from Vietnam, 17 dispatched themself within less than a year after returning to the states.
Thanks for another good video. This should've been put out about 6 months to a year ago so that I would've listened and wouldn't have just done the "spend, spend, spend"...lol.
Side note...can you possibly do a video on the Arylic BP50? I just found out about it yesterday and ordered one. Looks like a pretty good option that I've been looking for...a preamp with HDMI. Will be hooking it up to my modified Insignia turntable (and the Fosi P3 that I'm waiting on from Kickstarter)...the Fosi V3 for power...and a pair of B&W M-1 mkII speakers to try out in my main living room. Still has a line in available so I will grab a Wiim for that...not sure if I want to go to the newest Pro Plus or if I want to save a few bucks there and add a different DAC...the SU-1 you recommend or a J2...I've been doing a pretty good budget system so probably the SU-1. Can always upgrade down the road sometime. This is more about me messing around and not spending a fortune to see what I can come up with rather than having the best of the best system. I'm just having fun with the budget pieces.
Good stuff again. Thanks
For movie and gaming use only, is moving from the flagship Polk RTi A9 to the Polk R700 a lateral move? I know it is an upgrade for music listening but I do not do that on my theater system.
The Ramones! I saw the Ramones in Lincoln Nebraska in 1980. Everyone was dancing in the isles and standing on the armrests of the concert hall seating. Wildest concert ever.
what venue?
Cool that you saw THE band. I saw them around 85 in the Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver Canada. I could feel the floor bouncing. I was told their was some kind of fibre under the very old and original dance floor. Twenty feet away from Joey and the boys I was in pure joy mode.
@@cheapaudioman Actually, it must have been the Omaha Civic Auditorium April 29, 1980 but I'm not sure. I remember the seats were like an opera house with nice cushions and wooden arm rests. The floor sloped down to the stage maybe at a 7% angle. I was a junior at Lincoln South East and a senior had an extra ticket and asked me to tag along. We were on the wrestling team. I remember the girls were wearing animal prints. I'd been to a few concerts like The Doobie Brothers, The Cars and Heart but nothing I ever saw was like that Ramones concert. Nobody was sitting in their seat. Everyone was dancing.
@@cheapaudioman I was 14, living in Crawford Nebraska when I saw The Doobie Brothers in Rapid City. 1977 or 1978.
@@carlsitler9071that sounds like the Orpheum theater in Omaha NE. Great acoustics for sure!
hi, I'm very confused, I don't know which receiver to buy, I have an LG OLED C2 83 inch and a 5.1 Polk Audio Signature Elite, 2x es10 2x es20 1x es35 1x hts10, what do you recommend? ps I live in Belgium! I would be happy if you could help me, thanks
Very good advice!
this is the best video u made so far thanks
Solid advice.
Hi guys i bought my first record player and i bought also the kef Q350s and im having a hard time what amp should i buy any suggestions ? (Price range 200 to 400)
keep up the good work man🤟
I cannot access your playlist anymore. Did you change the playlist's privacy?
I would say 60%of your budget should go to your speakers - you don't agree, but the backbone of any quality system is the quality of your speakers
2 - start with more than $1000.00 - good quality speakers can cost upwards of $1000.00. Shoot for the $2500.00 price range for flexibility.
3 - an AVR with pre outs leaves room to grow. Power and additional channels. And be sure you have HDMI 2.1 inputs to future proof your system. For say $1800.00, you can get an Onkyo RZ-50 and real quality speakers. Leaves you $700.00 for a center and height / rear speakers. Or a decent sub. JBL Sub550P is a great choice since it goes down to 27hz and has 300 watts RMS - normally $599.00 but always ends up on sale for $189.00. You don't have to go broke to get a great subwoofer.
Hi, I just watched your review of a cheap Sony DVD player vs. the $600 Rotel. Have you ever done a review or just looked at the Sony UBP-X800M2 universal player? Plays every disc format and built like a brick (by today's standards). I like my 2 🙂
Honestly, keeping it cheap is going both DIY and with DSP in some cases. This definitely doesn't mean buying everything new but buying second hand something that would be out of your reach comfortably speaking as new. Fix things, learn to fix new things or pay someone to fix 'em for you for a right price. Go to exhibitions to hear the difference (or not in case you have a kickass system 😁).
When going secondhand and potentially buying something that is salvageable -> think first can you do it and do you have the tools required. If not then figure out do you want to go that way in any case and how much will that cost? What do you need to learn also - it can be something as easy as soldering.
This hobby will be as expensive as much you are willing to pour money into it unless you think twice and trust for instance dull things as:
- properly done measurements by yourself in your listening room or by someone else doing it for you
- legit professional reviews about products - they are not in your room though
as your starting points.
Also remember that your room can be your "enemy" so without thinking about room acoustics it doesn't matter how much you pour money into equipment if you room dominates the
My answer to this was to get off the bus, as it were. And get a minidsp active crossover. I actually mved on and will do it in my PC source, but I'm a geek. Or get some Hypex plate amps and put them in some speaker stands.
Once you have that gear, you can scratch the gear itch buy buying some MDF and new drivers (or even just a new combination from your parts bin) and having a good old tinker. Maybe start with a GR or CSS kit (or a PartsExpress one, or Madisound, whatever) and wire both drivers to the back and put the suppleid crossover in an external enclosure. Then you can listen as intended, twealk the crossover if you want, and play with different crossover topologies etc rather easily.
Speakers are the bit of the replay that is most amenable to this sort of therapy. One drawback though - unless using amps with DSP built in that can ADC/crossover/DAC/amplify, then the source is constrained to ripped/stored music retrieved from disk or the internet. But I don't care - I buy CDs second hand from charity shops.
Randy. You rock. Nuff said.
Good video. I respectfully disagree about making your speakers a core product. In my experience, a well made, decent sounding set of speakers can still sound great decades after they were made. My main system consists of several older B&W 600 series speakers (683 towers to be precise) and more then 10 years on, they still sound wonderful. I’ve replaced just about everything else in my system in the time since: new A/V receiver, new subwoofer, etc., but the speakers remain. If you have a set that sound great, I don’t see any reason they can’t be the core of your system.
Yeah, there's something to be said about having speakers you love. It also makes it much easier to try out other components, IMO, vs changing out your speakers (which might end up requiring changing out other components that aren't well-matched to those speakers).
If you view it as a hobby and you're buying AND selling and look at the difference as the actual cost I can see it being not that expensive in the long run. Golf costs you money every time you step on the course. If you pick up a pair of new or used speakers for $400 and use them for 12 months then sell them for $300 that's $8.33 a month for your hobby. Even if you do that in every category it's still not bad as long as you don't take a total bath. My next step in the hobby is to combine my beginner woodworking hobby with getting vintage speakers and fixing them up. Even if I "lose" money it's the satisfaction of the work that I'm seeking. I don't "need" any component right now but there's a pair of classic ADS speakers with some water damage to the cabinets an hour and a half away that keep calling me.
Just in case you're not aware, there are a lot of DIY speaker designs out there. Could be the perfect opportunity to combine your woodworking with speaker hobby.
@@danielh12345 it was Randy's review of the CSS products that led me to build two kits already. I think my next project will be a set of Klipsch Cornwall clones. That won't be a kit so it will be quite a learning experience.
@tmdillon1969 Thats cool! I'm contemplating making the Paul Carmody designed "Tarkus" in the future. Have made his Overnight sensations (kit with wood) twice now. Very fun. I just don't have a good space to make them now. Does the design you want to build have a name so I can find it? Thanks for the response!
@@danielh12345 I have not found a specific design yet. I can easily find a schematic for making the cabinets for the Cornwall 1s but I was hoping to make a more recent model. The horns changed with the new models. I've seen some builds but I'm of the impression they bought the drivers and then reverse-engineered the front baffle to fit them. So far the audio DIY pages haven't been a huge help. I've had some condescending responses to my questions so I may find myself also figuring out the front on my own.
Very wise advice. I would always put the majority of my budget into the source whatever that may be. I am a firm believer in the saying garbage in, garbage out and that mantra has served me well for the better part of 50 years.
A bit off topic, but possibly you could discuss options in future.
--Would love to improve system by using my 100wpc ab power amp. Need a balance control in my system and the Wiim and stand along DAC's seem to have shunned that feature. Forces me to use my Onkyo integrated amp....boooo!
The last time my son won something, he had to pick it up himself.
It cost me $ 3000 to get it from Sydney and transport to Perth on the other side of Australia.