Damit I just bought a basic amp switcher so I could use the CSS Criton 2TD-X speakers I just finished building with the Elekit TU-8600S Tube amp I recently built or my Yamaha 5.1 receiver for the front left and right . Grrr I will probably buy this anyway.. Thanks. I guess... : )
Hey Randy...can't believe you reviewed this item today! I have had this saved in my Wish List on Amazon for 3-4 months but never pulled the trigger. I may do it now! Thanks!
Love the Douk Audio Speaker/Amp switcher. You can actually switch between speakers for different kinds of music. Have the old Technics rack and new Willsenton amp hooked up to the system Technics speakers and a set of oldish giant Jensen speakers. Fun to see how jazz, rock and other genres sound in the different speakers and the difference in how tubes versus solid state sounds.
WOW Randy , This looks like an AWESOME little product ! Dancing needle VU meters have always filled MY soul with happiness. Thank you for bringing the One Little Bear to my attention. I can't wait to get one !!
I think all Amp manufacturers should consider putting VU meters in their Amps. Retro is the way to go. Wouldn’t the new AVR’s look so much cooler if they looked like the ones from the 70s.
@@marcusm5127 regardless of your observation, worthless is a relative term. All recording was done in studios for decades using VU meters, and you would be hard pressed to call some if the true studio masterpieces of that era less than for their use of VU meters....
I used to love amps with vu meters. I like them on my open reel machine and I went and bought the Douk Audio VU2! I wanted to be able to have several analogue sources as well as my digital sources running into my Beolab 8000s. Its tough finding a decent switch that also has remote control. But I love the meters. Oh, when I use the unit with my tape deck, the two sets of meters correspond pretty well. I can use them to check levels from my armchair.
Man I love this channel. It may be the best on RUclips because it covers so much. Frankly, I don’t even need or want most of the pieces on here but it’s entertaining and doesn’t try to be too wordy. In addition, the variety here is crazy. I don’t need the same 5 people providing their hot takes on the same 5 headphones and import black box amps while showing me money shots of plants, motorcycle keys, and carefully placed lighting. It’s getting boring man. There are few great and useful audiophile channels out there. This is one of those.
Darth! You made my day, brother. I have to tell you that answering comments is probably the least favorite part of my job but every once in a while someone, today it's YOU, gives me a shot of adrenalin and validation that I'm making a difference. You have no idea how much you helped me today, my man.
@@cheapaudioman That’s awesome sir. I’m a crazed musician and avid audio enthusiast but I’ve only got so much time and money so yeah, your channel is great. Keep it up man, we love it. Very kind words.
Hi Randy. Great video! I had no idea things like the One Little Bear existed. Perfect for the audiophile with too much gear. I bought one based on your recommendation. I’m a fan of the Klipsch RP - 600M. I think it sounds great with flea watt tube amps. Simple math shows that it’s 100 better than Klipsch RP - 500M. Keep up the great work! I look forward to your videos. -DD
@@cheapaudioman I ended up buying the TEC TC-7220 from Amazon cause it has a much higher power handlinh. But I've not forgotten these schweeeet VU meters 😎
I bought one of these Douk units about 6 mos. ago. I like it, and it seems made well. The meters have a 4 level dimmer as well. My unit uses servos for switching, but is only 5v from a USB source.
I myself added to my home hifi system, have a BDS rack mount PP131 2U (double height) 31 bar frequency analyzer. It's a tidy bit of kit, multi functions for display, left and right channels, peak, peak hold/fall rate. Yeah it cost me over £300 but, shows me everything from 20Hz to 20Kh (which has helped me identify where each set of my speakers work best and tail off on the lower end). Plus with its main green LED and red LED max display, takes me back to the 80's a little, back when I was taping the Sunday charts on my father's Technics Stacked HiFi system hahaha 😉😉😎🇬🇧
Hey Randy! I’m glad that Sith Audio is back. I’ll bet it’s a challenge to continue to be creative with it. But I challenge you to take up that challenge! And the Placebostat 1000 is a great one. I’m reaching for my wallet already 😂
If you need an RCA switcher instead of an amp/speaker switch, Douk also makes one of those with VU meters that looks a lot like the One Little Bear. It’s bigger and $50 more expensive, but I have one and I like it.
Baby bOOmer here! Thanks, Randy! Great review and endorsement of this product! I plan to get one of these to switch from my indoor Buchardt S400 MKII speakers to my Sonos outdoor speaker on our lanai powered by my Buchardt i150 Integrated Amplifier.
I found that the Placebo Stat units distorted the heat. They each gave a shimmery effect to the heat from my radiators. I swapped the Placebo Stat 1000 for a modified version that uses micro-gold sensors combined with carbon nanofibre switches. The shimmering is all gone, I use 23.5% less electricity and my rooms are both warmer and cooler at the same time! The big trick though is to run them in for at least 4236 hours.
This is something that I can see being a useful tool for me. I WILL be ordering one next week. With the amount of components that I switch in and out of my system, it is very difficult to get a real A/B comparison. This will be worth its weight on gold. Can't wait! Thank you for this!!
I just dusted off my old Optimus Pro LX7 speakers for the first time in a very long time. I have them hooked up to my Douk Audio Pro M1 amp. I have forgotten just how nice these Linaeum tweeters sound. The entire speaker setup sounds incredible. I had purchased these speakers new in 1997.
okay...I've had Little Bear on my wish list on Amazon for the last 6 mos...today because of YOU I went ahead and ordered it. I used your link in hopes you'd get a wee tad from it. I am getting ready to do some comparisons...have had Paradigm towers but got the Magnum horns and then bought some vintage Wharfdale D70's from 1965....listened to them at the buyer's house but can't wait to compare as they sounded GREAT for rock....also gonna compare my Adcom amp against a Rega Brio and even some small tubes....so this will be fun to play with. Back in the 70's I had a great Dynaco 400 amp with beautiful VU meters and have been missing them....love these goodies!
Thanks for the review, Randy👍. These VU meters are really good looking and for comparisons between two different types of speakers and amplifiers very useful. Although the Klipsch 500 m are very good speakers, a very good advice for audiophiles who are new in this hobby 💪👋great. Love your channel, thanks for your good work on it.
Thank you! I love the Douk Switcher. I was wondering though- do you know if I can swap out the bulbs with blue leds? And if so, which ones would work? Thanks for all you do!
You can often do that out of the box. My Audiolab 6000 has pre-out RCA output, which I connect to my surround receiver via aux-RCA connection. Setting the volume on the surround to -15dB enables me to switch between the 2 amps using the same volume level. Adjusting the Audiolab's volume raises the volume on the surround receiver to the same level.
Thanks for the great review of the Douk Audio VU3 by One Little Bear. Sometimes having something for fun is what makes me happy and I do love VU meters and like to switch speakers. Win
Glad you checked this out. I know I left a comment recommending it not too long ago. No idea if that helped you find it but I'm glad if it did! I love using this thing Edit: Also if you didn't know - it has a dummy load built in so it's safe to use with tube amps
Thanks for the review, Randy. I just ordered one via your link to Amazon. I have been looking for a swiitch for my 2 amps and 1 pair of speakers . This is exactly what I need and it looks great too. 😀
Randy, just found your channel last week. I’m putting together a new system and came across this Douk Audio VU3 piece you reviewed. Bought it with your link. Do you have any quality cable recommendations? Patch, speaker wire, etc? Cost isn’t really a problem.
Hi Randy, I was super-excited to see your review on the little Bear switch. I have bought several speaker/amp switch, though not from Little Bear, for the same reasons exactly as you mentioned in your review. However, bad news was that all the previous product I bought did bring a clear degradation to the sound quality when compairing to a direct connection, which was quite obvious even to my not very sensitive ungolden ear. Hence, I would really really apreciate it if you would supplement to this review in your next one I hope, whether u find the direct connection without switch as compared to the switch connected have obvious negative impact on sound quality, after sound level adjustment if necessary. I know u have a golden ear, and would help if you further calrify if the difference is obvious if one does not AB compare them. I am dying to have something like that but previous experience has not been encouraging... really really really hope u can add this extra clarification as I am sure a lot of people would be interested if the negative impact is NOT very obvious or acceptable, especially when this comes from a guy like you who are always practical and care more about enjoyment instead of just over analytical... thanks in advance
It's been measured to do nothing to your audio signal. Will be just fine. But, some would say, comparison is the thief of joy. So do you really want to compare "whether it makes things sound different"? It won't btw ;-)
i went to an audio show and the klipsch RP500M were the best "entry level" speakers by far... a vivid speaker with amazing mid range, forward-ish but not harsh at all not even with more power they should be driven...
Been waiting for someone to review this! Thanks! Also I have rp500m on stands and rp8000f.. I a/b (using my integrated) them for different kinds of listening sessions. Both are great, but in their own way.
It does look nice. I like my M10's meters on the NAD. I have two stereo rooms set up and enjoy one more sometimes and sometimes the other more and many times both together.
Good one Randy ... this is a tool I can use. VU meters are a nice touch. I understand that their XLR switches are pretty good too. Big thanks for this one cos I had no idea it existed. Looks like it accepts banana plugs... many speaker switches do not ... so a big plus for this unit.
Hi Randy, I really like your channel. You made me buy two great products: the Emotiva Basx TA100 and the Sony SSCS 5. Both of them mind blowing! Now I have a question, if I buy the Klipsch RP500M am I going to be more satisfied than with the Sonys? Thanks in advance if you can take the time to answer an thanks for this wonderful and fun channel.
Loving the FroKnowsPhoto shirt Randy! I have the same one, as well as a blue one 🤣 Great review as always. I watch a lot of the time not because I am going to buy anything but simply to be entertained. Although I did buy a DAC off your recommendation, but that was entertaining too. Keep up the great work, from a fellow FKP fan from the UK 👍
Hell man. Cool as hell. I love VU meters, tubes, watches and pets. I'm easily entertained and can afford new toys. My savings account is feeling your impact on my OCD, insane, sober, retired old ass. Thanks alot man ! My wife thinks I love you ☺️. What can I say to that? Insane Mike PS- Keep the beard so I don't kiss you.
Hi Randy, I would have a question if you find the time about the connections with this device (Little Bear). How would I do it if my source is a computer, which I connect an amp to (say the T9) ? How would I connect a second amp (say SMSL DA-9), to my computer (acting as a content playing source) before adding it to the little bear ?? Any insight welcome, because how do you share a single audio source with two amps? I find it confusing as you only talk about the speakers and amp connections to the splitter, which doesn't seem too complex, but what about the shared audio source for the two amps one would want want to compare in real time using the splitter (little bear) ? How can the two amps be connected to the same source to be compared to start with, be it a PC, CD transport, streamer-DAC, etc. ?. Something I don't get, since, apparently, you can't connect a common audio source to the little bear. Very lost here, but relatively new to the hobbie (and dumb, don't forget dumb, rock dumb)...
Outstanding channel Randy! I currently am running DefTec BP20s powered by an Onkyo SV70PRO that I bought new in 1992-1993. Any advice on what I could add to my old school setup to get a little better sound. I use it for 2 channel listening from Miles Davis to Queensryche, Megadeath and of course Metallica. I stream from my Apple 11 PRO from Amazon HD. Also any suggestion on budget system for my small shop. I like it loud and clean! Any help would be freaking awesome man! Keep up the great work man! You’re channel is the first thing I watch each morning with my coffee! My wife and 2 daughter’s think I’m insane and their probably right. To OLD SCHOOL bro! ROCK ON!
Hi Randy if you mentioned it I apologize but I'm coming back to this video to ask, can you play a and b speakers at the same time the reason I'm asking is I have a pair of Aperion super tweeters,sometimes o need them and sometimes I do not. These old ears👍. I read amazon comments but didn't see anything. Thanks
It's cool, but I'm wondering if many audiophiles are going to want to add another link in their audio chain though.... Maybe tap your speaker leads to the meters just for the looks.
Impact, well I tell you all what impact I had. I accumulated one single klipsh la scala for the mere swap of one cd, groove theory “tell me” single and a spliff…… he badgered me for it back for years. And silly swaps for a long time… it’s long gone. But still happened… great story. Enjoy
Do you think you could do a video on sound? As in when you hear a difference is it better or just different? Two speakers playing off the same amp, is one better or just different and can we confuse different for better. Perhaps that’s what you do each video and I am just dorky.
Great review. Is it possible to feed to streamers (Bluesound Node & Shanling M3X) into this beauty and output them to a Douk Audio P1 preamp? I have my Beolab active speakers connected to the Audio P1. Thank you in advance for your reply.
Hi Randy! Another great video! I’m taking the plunge and reuniting my old passion for Vinyl! Do you think this setup would produce some nice sound? Fluance RT 85 → Schitt Mani → Aiyiama A08 → JLB Stage A130 / Sony SSC55 ?
Is there any noticeable sound degradation when running this unit? I don't plan on comparing speakers or amps. I just love the look of the vu meters so I am considering running this between my receiver and my speakers.
Can this be hooked up through tape Loop? Or could you just use the tape outputs on a receiver to feed it? Is it strictly necessary that the signal go through it before it reaches the speakers, or could it be put in parallel as if it were a tape recorder?
@Douglas Blake Ah. My mistake. I thought that that low level signals headed into the amps passed through the box. Now I see that the amp connection is for the amp's speaker output. Thanks.
Different units have different functions. I have the Douk Audio VU2. That unit has multiple line inputs switchable by remote and, of course, the VU meters. That can be used in a tape loop. I don't have it set up that way, but it was my original plan.
@@andrewwilson8273 That sounds cool. Ideally, if all one wanted was VU meters, it seems best to not send the signal through them, but instead, to hook them up to an unused tape output.
@@EskWIRED if all you want is moving meters and yellow lights then get the Douk Audio VU2. That model has a built in microphone. So it does not even need a connection to an audio signal. In fact, on my system, although I use the switching all the time, I leave the meters on mic input. Of course it picks up and responds to background noise but that's not even something I notice if I am not listening to music or watching a movie.
I've been sayin this for the last 2 years, nobsound/douk/brz audio, i like em, and ive tried many, using nobsound separates at the time, I always keep one around and their really really good and have beat alot of the much higher priced stuff out of the room head t head, almost everytime it's very strange, for the money their incredible and I'll always keep them around.
I find all the visual stuff on audio gear to be kind of a distraction, especially the blue LEDs we apparently import straight from hell. I run Kodi and Amazon from my HTPC, which has a the silly motherboard lights disabled. I use a blank back screen in Kodi. When I had my Denon receiver it was dimmed all the way and I put electrical tape on anything else. Hearing music in a completely blacked out room takes some getting used to but it's a really cool experience.
I press record on my tape deck and turn up the record volume to max, then use the VU meter on the tape deck to check my input levels to my vintage amp from my audio interface. Digital signals are way too hot these days.
Hi Randy, great review. Ive bought the vu meters just for show. I saw your amp but im anal, the brushed finish didnt match. Are you are of any amps with a similiar finish of that size ? Thx !!
Cool product and something that should make your job to review and compare gear much easier. No experience with the RP500M. When putting together my modest vinyl corner a while back I bought the R-51M based on a review and a ridiculous low price, $99.00 and then replaced by the 600M based on multiple reviews and price, again! I didn't like them that much for a long time, months, and then something happened and they grew on me and sound very good but, maybe, somewhat fatiguing if listening for a long time at high volume. The R-51M ended up in my bedroom hooked up to a recycled Onkyo receiver, a Sony Blu Ray player and a 50" TCL TV. What to replace the 600 with to get a "more mature" sound? Not crazy about returning stuff and I'm running out of room to recycle gear.
Looks great. That said I already have a 6 way speaker amp switch with individual level controls. Now, whether this affects the sound is something else. It does have a bunch of transformer impedance matching inside. Still good for multi comparisons, but I think in general comparing more than 2 speakers at once creates issues as all the speakers being next to each other doesn't sound the same as when they are alone in the room
I almost bought one a few months ago but didn't know if you could play speakers A and B at the same time. Was hoping to use this as a switch and zone control. Any insight Randy?
By the way, Have you ever laid a hand on the LOne Little Bear Preamp Switch with the same outlook, but RCA ports on AFT? I found a lot Reviews about the speaker switches, but I only saw just 1 (One) Critical Review of the Preamp Switch... This "Sister" product is used to multiply the number of sources for an Amplifier with just one RCA input, like the Ayiyima T9, up to 4 Sources... Or you can use it the other way around, and switch a single source to 4 Amplifiers with just a little switch.... To be frank: Recordology mentioned, that he had massive distortion with the little bear in his line.... But what should we know without a second opinion? Maybe his piece was a Monday item? Who knows...Douk Audio VU2 MIC+LINE Dual Analog VU Meter...
I wonder if it could be used to switch other equipment such as CD players or phono inputs. Like having two turntables hooked to the Amp side inputs, and then outputting via a single speaker output to a phono amp and then patch to receiver or amp.
Douk Audio VU2 is the unit you want. Slightly different design but with VUs and remote control. 4 line inputs to a single output. Or a single line in to multiple line outs.
I am in need of some uv meters... I always question whether i made the right decision to go with the RP-150m over the RP-500m. I haven't A/B'd them but the 150 supposedly has tamed highs. Im curious what you think of the Tannoy sound. Have you tried anything like the Tannoy Studio 8?
Dude! I’ve been staring at this thing for a while now to add into my vinyl system. I have no need for this at all, but damn it looks cool! I wish it was a wider unit, it’s so small compared to my other gear lol. I bought their little mono bloc sub amp about a year ago for one of my subs, and it’s stupid great!
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Damit I just bought a basic amp switcher so I could use the CSS Criton 2TD-X speakers I just finished building with the Elekit TU-8600S Tube amp I recently built or my Yamaha 5.1 receiver for the front left and right . Grrr I will probably buy this anyway.. Thanks. I guess... : )
Hi. is it possible to connect this Vu meter to a home theater amplifier. If yes how does one do it. Thanks to assist.
Can I use the VU meter alone? Can I hook it to the amps pre out
Hey Randy...can't believe you reviewed this item today! I have had this saved in my Wish List on Amazon for 3-4 months but never pulled the trigger. I may do it now! Thanks!
Love the Douk Audio Speaker/Amp switcher. You can actually switch between speakers for different kinds of music.
Have the old Technics rack and new Willsenton amp hooked up to the system Technics speakers and a set of oldish giant Jensen speakers.
Fun to see how jazz, rock and other genres sound in the different speakers and the difference in how tubes versus solid state sounds.
WOW Randy , This looks like an AWESOME little product ! Dancing needle VU meters have always filled MY soul with happiness. Thank you for bringing the One Little Bear to my attention. I can't wait to get one !!
it's pretty cool
I think all Amp manufacturers should consider putting VU meters in their Amps. Retro is the way to go. Wouldn’t the new AVR’s look so much cooler if they looked like the ones from the 70s.
agreee
Yes but they are worthless, they are way too slow to show any real level. I'd still want them anyway.
@@marcusm5127 regardless of your observation, worthless is a relative term. All recording was done in studios for decades using VU meters, and you would be hard pressed to call some if the true studio masterpieces of that era less than for their use of VU meters....
I used to love amps with vu meters. I like them on my open reel machine and I went and bought the Douk Audio VU2!
I wanted to be able to have several analogue sources as well as my digital sources running into my Beolab 8000s.
Its tough finding a decent switch that also has remote control.
But I love the meters.
Oh, when I use the unit with my tape deck, the two sets of meters correspond pretty well. I can use them to check levels from my armchair.
My Dad had them on TEAC reel to reel tape decks.
Man I love this channel. It may be the best on RUclips because it covers so much. Frankly, I don’t even need or want most of the pieces on here but it’s entertaining and doesn’t try to be too wordy.
In addition, the variety here is crazy.
I don’t need the same 5 people providing their hot takes on the same 5 headphones and import black box amps while showing me money shots of plants, motorcycle keys, and carefully placed lighting.
It’s getting boring man.
There are few great and useful audiophile channels out there.
This is one of those.
Darth! You made my day, brother. I have to tell you that answering comments is probably the least favorite part of my job but every once in a while someone, today it's YOU, gives me a shot of adrenalin and validation that I'm making a difference. You have no idea how much you helped me today, my man.
@@cheapaudioman That’s awesome sir. I’m a crazed musician and avid audio enthusiast but I’ve only got so much time and money so yeah, your channel is great. Keep it up man, we love it. Very kind words.
Hi Randy. Great video! I had no idea things like the One Little Bear existed. Perfect for the audiophile with too much gear. I bought one based on your recommendation. I’m a fan of the Klipsch RP - 600M. I think it sounds great with flea watt tube amps. Simple math shows that it’s 100 better than Klipsch RP - 500M. Keep up the great work! I look forward to your videos. -DD
Dan! I'm no mathematician Dan. I wish I had you before I made this video. it's a cool little device for sure. and will be very useful for my purposes.
Randy, if you’re not a mathematician, that must be why you prefer the 500’s over the 600’s. You just like what you like.
Hmm… Interesting concept.🤔
@@muahaha5929 Agreed. Still, a remote control is preferable.
I love the VU meters
me too.
I've been staring at this for a year now, great review Randy!
I saw it and then forgot about it and then saw it again and bought it on a lark and I'm so glad I did
@@cheapaudioman I ended up buying the TEC TC-7220 from Amazon cause it has a much higher power handlinh. But I've not forgotten these schweeeet VU meters 😎
I bought one of these Douk units about 6 mos. ago. I like it, and it seems made well. The meters have a 4 level dimmer as well. My unit uses servos for switching, but is only 5v from a USB source.
this is 5v too. I like this thing. I'll be using it a lot.
@@cheapaudioman Great channel man, on a blue-collar budget, I love the inexpensive equipment offered these days...Keep up the good work!
@@vulcangunner58 thanks, man
I myself added to my home hifi system, have a BDS rack mount PP131 2U (double height) 31 bar frequency analyzer. It's a tidy bit of kit, multi functions for display, left and right channels, peak, peak hold/fall rate. Yeah it cost me over £300 but, shows me everything from 20Hz to 20Kh (which has helped me identify where each set of my speakers work best and tail off on the lower end). Plus with its main green LED and red LED max display, takes me back to the 80's a little, back when I was taping the Sunday charts on my father's Technics Stacked HiFi system hahaha 😉😉😎🇬🇧
Hey Randy! I’m glad that Sith Audio is back. I’ll bet it’s a challenge to continue to be creative with it. But I challenge you to take up that challenge! And the Placebostat 1000 is a great one. I’m reaching for my wallet already 😂
“That’s what make it audiophile!” Priceless.
glad you liked that one, Paul.
Thank you sir. I’ve been looking for a video like this for a while. I’ll finish watching and maybe get one of these.
Saw a video on their quality control, good stuff.......love UV meters........sold
If you need an RCA switcher instead of an amp/speaker switch, Douk also makes one of those with VU meters that looks a lot like the One Little Bear. It’s bigger and $50 more expensive, but I have one and I like it.
Would love a link to that if you still have it, or a model number, whatever... thanks :-)
Baby bOOmer here! Thanks, Randy! Great review and endorsement of this product! I plan to get one of these to switch from my indoor Buchardt S400 MKII speakers to my Sonos outdoor speaker on our lanai powered by my Buchardt i150 Integrated Amplifier.
I had a Placebo Stat 900 and wasn't too impressed with how it made me feel. Do you think the 1000 is a worthy upgrade?
I found that the Placebo Stat units distorted the heat. They each gave a shimmery effect to the heat from my radiators.
I swapped the Placebo Stat 1000 for a modified version that uses micro-gold sensors combined with carbon nanofibre switches. The shimmering is all gone, I use 23.5% less electricity and my rooms are both warmer and cooler at the same time!
The big trick though is to run them in for at least 4236 hours.
they made a bunch of updates for the 1000. there is a audible fan noise that mimics that of a real furnace or ac kicking on which adds to the effect.
This is something that I can see being a useful tool for me. I WILL be ordering one next week. With the amount of components that I switch in and out of my system, it is very difficult to get a real A/B comparison. This will be worth its weight on gold. Can't wait! Thank you for this!!
yeah. I bought it on a lark and then as I started to get to know it the light bulb went on. or maybe the VU meter went on in my head
Cool Thing about the placebo stat is that it works on both electric and gas systems, saves power consumption and is easy to install.
I should have mentioned that. You are so right
This is some of the most game changing out-of-the-box thinking I've seen in audio in decades! Pure genius!
I put one in my car, I swear the mileage improved.
I just dusted off my old Optimus Pro LX7 speakers for the first time in a very long time. I have them hooked up to my Douk Audio Pro M1 amp. I have forgotten just how nice these Linaeum tweeters sound. The entire speaker setup sounds incredible. I had purchased these speakers new in 1997.
okay...I've had Little Bear on my wish list on Amazon for the last 6 mos...today because of YOU I went ahead and ordered it. I used your link in hopes you'd get a wee tad from it. I am getting ready to do some comparisons...have had Paradigm towers but got the Magnum horns and then bought some vintage Wharfdale D70's from 1965....listened to them at the buyer's house but can't wait to compare as they sounded GREAT for rock....also gonna compare my Adcom amp against a Rega Brio and even some small tubes....so this will be fun to play with. Back in the 70's I had a great Dynaco 400 amp with beautiful VU meters and have been missing them....love these goodies!
Thanks for the review, Randy👍. These VU meters are really good looking and for comparisons between two different types of speakers and amplifiers very useful. Although the Klipsch 500 m are very good speakers, a very good advice for audiophiles who are new in this hobby 💪👋great. Love your channel, thanks for your good work on it.
Thanks for watching!
I just love Sith Audio!!!! I think they have great products.
Love the captions Jeep Awning Man!
Great review as always Randy, Thanks.
Thanks for watching!
Dude ...You could have been a GREAT Stand Up comic...Awesome!
Thank you! I love the Douk Switcher. I was wondering though- do you know if I can swap out the bulbs with blue leds? And if so, which ones would work? Thanks for all you do!
I would love to do that as well. Please let me know if you find any leads!
Very nice looking thing and also for A and B comparisons. The only thing missing would be getting the same signal to both amps first.
You can often do that out of the box. My Audiolab 6000 has pre-out RCA output, which I connect to my surround receiver via aux-RCA connection. Setting the volume on the surround to -15dB enables me to switch between the 2 amps using the same volume level. Adjusting the Audiolab's volume raises the volume on the surround receiver to the same level.
Thanks for the great review of the Douk Audio VU3 by One Little Bear. Sometimes having something for fun is what makes me happy and I do love VU meters and like to switch speakers. Win
than you, T
Glad you checked this out. I know I left a comment recommending it not too long ago. No idea if that helped you find it but I'm glad if it did! I love using this thing
Edit:
Also if you didn't know - it has a dummy load built in so it's safe to use with tube amps
I remember. yes, One look and I was sold
I love it Randy. Good Job! Thanks. Are those Hawaii 5-0 graphics? Or Vegas wiith Dan Tana?
nice shirt!
thanks for all of your videos.
Great review, I was about to order one when I noticed it said not for use with amps over 100 watts per channel because the VU meters could be damaged.
full tilt maybe. but I'd doubt that most would run full out 100 watts. But being cautious is usually the right way to go.
Thanks for the review, Randy. I just ordered one via your link to Amazon. I have been looking for a swiitch for my 2 amps and 1 pair of speakers . This is exactly what I need and it looks great too. 😀
awesome!
Randy, just found your channel last week. I’m putting together a new system and came across this Douk Audio VU3 piece you reviewed. Bought it with your link. Do you have any quality cable recommendations? Patch, speaker wire, etc? Cost isn’t really a problem.
I use the one with rca and xlr inputs and outputs. Amazing product.
Hi Randy, I was super-excited to see your review on the little Bear switch. I have bought several speaker/amp switch, though not from Little Bear, for the same reasons exactly as you mentioned in your review. However, bad news was that all the previous product I bought did bring a clear degradation to the sound quality when compairing to a direct connection, which was quite obvious even to my not very sensitive ungolden ear. Hence, I would really really apreciate it if you would supplement to this review in your next one I hope, whether u find the direct connection without switch as compared to the switch connected have obvious negative impact on sound quality, after sound level adjustment if necessary. I know u have a golden ear, and would help if you further calrify if the difference is obvious if one does not AB compare them. I am dying to have something like that but previous experience has not been encouraging... really really really hope u can add this extra clarification as I am sure a lot of people would be interested if the negative impact is NOT very obvious or acceptable, especially when this comes from a guy like you who are always practical and care more about enjoyment instead of just over analytical... thanks in advance
It's been measured to do nothing to your audio signal. Will be just fine.
But, some would say, comparison is the thief of joy. So do you really want to compare "whether it makes things sound different"? It won't btw ;-)
Where's your affiliate link to the Placebostat? I'm wondering if there's one that comes w/ VU meters.
lol. Yeah. I need to add that
Interestingly, I saw this VU on AliExpress few days ago and now Randy is introducing it 😄
That is neat but I’m wondering if there is a way to share a single subwoofer between two amplifiers?
i went to an audio show and the klipsch RP500M were the best "entry level" speakers by far... a vivid speaker with amazing mid range, forward-ish but not harsh at all not even with more power they should be driven...
Been waiting for someone to review this! Thanks! Also I have rp500m on stands and rp8000f.. I a/b (using my integrated) them for different kinds of listening sessions. Both are great, but in their own way.
nice
I’d love to have one of these with multiple in and outs for my “wall of vintage receivers”
It does look nice. I like my M10's meters on the NAD. I have two stereo rooms set up and enjoy one more sometimes and sometimes the other more and many times both together.
LOVE THIS! I was wondering if anyone made VU meters these days. Thank you!
Good one Randy ... this is a tool I can use. VU meters are a nice touch.
I understand that their XLR switches are pretty good too. Big thanks for
this one cos I had no idea it existed. Looks like it accepts banana plugs...
many speaker switches do not ... so a big plus for this unit.
How does the Placebostat graph look? Hopefully it does not muddy the bass
I like the douk audio because i remember little bear from when i was growing up. Plus the meters are so dope
agree
LOL Placebostat 1000!! I loved that one!
Hi Randy, I really like your channel. You made me buy two great products: the Emotiva Basx TA100 and the Sony SSCS 5. Both of them mind blowing! Now I have a question, if I buy the Klipsch RP500M am I going to be more satisfied than with the Sonys? Thanks in advance if you can take the time to answer an thanks for this wonderful and fun channel.
Ohh! I love it and I want it! But… I just read a review where they said that it adds distortion :/ How bad can it be? I still want it.
Great! I am wondering though, do you have the option of just switching the amplifiers and listening to the 2 sets of A/B speakers all at once?
Loving the FroKnowsPhoto shirt Randy! I have the same one, as well as a blue one 🤣
Great review as always. I watch a lot of the time not because I am going to buy anything but simply to be entertained. Although I did buy a DAC off your recommendation, but that was entertaining too. Keep up the great work, from a fellow FKP fan from the UK 👍
thanks, John! yeah. I try to be entertaining, my man. hopefully I am more often than I'm not
Wow, this One Little Bear guy did a great job with this review!
Feel like you may be taking a swipe at me with your comment?
Hell man. Cool as hell. I love VU meters, tubes, watches and pets. I'm easily entertained and can afford new toys. My savings account is feeling your impact on my OCD, insane, sober, retired old ass.
Thanks alot man ! My wife thinks I love you ☺️. What can I say to that?
Insane Mike
PS- Keep the beard so I don't kiss you.
Hi Randy, I would have a question if you find the time about the connections with this device (Little Bear). How would I do it if my source is a computer, which I connect an amp to (say the T9) ? How would I connect a second amp (say SMSL DA-9), to my computer (acting as a content playing source) before adding it to the little bear ?? Any insight welcome, because how do you share a single audio source with two amps? I find it confusing as you only talk about the speakers and amp connections to the splitter, which doesn't seem too complex, but what about the shared audio source for the two amps one would want want to compare in real time using the splitter (little bear) ? How can the two amps be connected to the same source to be compared to start with, be it a PC, CD transport, streamer-DAC, etc. ?. Something I don't get, since, apparently, you can't connect a common audio source to the little bear. Very lost here, but relatively new to the hobbie (and dumb, don't forget dumb, rock dumb)...
Listening to vinyl through the RP 500m’s I would recommend trying one of the Grado prestige cartridge’s like the red3. It may lessen your fatigue.
I have loved VU meters since the '70s! I have their little beige VU1 one...RCA. I love it! Just wish it was black, lol.
nice. they're pretty cool
Outstanding channel Randy! I currently am running DefTec BP20s powered by an Onkyo SV70PRO that I bought new in 1992-1993. Any advice on what I could add to my old school setup to get a little better sound. I use it for 2 channel listening from Miles Davis to Queensryche, Megadeath and of course Metallica. I stream from my Apple 11 PRO from Amazon HD. Also any suggestion on budget system for my small shop. I like it loud and clean!
Any help would be freaking awesome man! Keep up the great work man! You’re channel is the first thing I watch each morning with my coffee! My wife and 2 daughter’s think I’m insane and their probably right.
To OLD SCHOOL bro!
ROCK ON!
Hi Randy if you mentioned it I apologize but I'm coming back to this video to ask, can you play a and b speakers at the same time the reason I'm asking is I have a pair of Aperion super tweeters,sometimes o need them and sometimes I do not. These old ears👍. I read amazon comments but didn't see anything. Thanks
Do they come in matte silver?
Looks good, except the black that really puts me off.
All of my equipment has brushed aluminium front plates.
Why Not!!! Very Cool, Thanks Randy.👍
Thanks for watching!
It's cool, but I'm wondering if many audiophiles are going to want to add another link in their audio chain though.... Maybe tap your speaker leads to the meters just for the looks.
Impact, well I tell you all what impact I had. I accumulated one single klipsh la scala for the mere swap of one cd, groove theory “tell me” single and a spliff…… he badgered me for it back for years. And silly swaps for a long time… it’s long gone. But still happened… great story. Enjoy
Do you think you could do a video on sound? As in when you hear a difference is it better or just different? Two speakers playing off the same amp, is one better or just different and can we confuse different for better. Perhaps that’s what you do each video and I am just dorky.
Great review.
Is it possible to feed to streamers (Bluesound Node & Shanling M3X) into this beauty and output them to a Douk Audio P1 preamp? I have my Beolab active speakers connected to the Audio P1.
Thank you in advance for your reply.
Does it have any impact on the line signal?
This was perfect timing I was just about to purchase a set of 500M's!
I wish they would go on sale soon.
@@cheapaudioman I'm in Australia they are $999($750usd) but I found a set on sale for $699($525usd) it is time!
@@mattfarrar5472 I need to move to Australia and start a speaker company
In response to the VU3,
what good are VU meters when nearly all the new mini amps do not have balance controls?
Hi Randy! Another great video!
I’m taking the plunge and reuniting my old passion for Vinyl!
Do you think this setup would produce some nice sound?
Fluance RT 85 → Schitt Mani → Aiyiama A08 → JLB Stage A130 / Sony SSC55 ?
Yes, absolutely
@@cheapaudioman Thanks very much! Looking forward to the next video!
Don't have it
But
Love this thing
My concern is that its rated for 100watts.
Will more power blow this thing out??🤔
Randy can you do a review on graphic equalizers?
Can you connect a single audio input to independently run two amplifiers with speakers. Then you have the wall of sound.
Nice video! Can you use it only with input cables connected with no output and still get the VU metering?
You have to run your speakers through it to get a signal
You mention 2 amps, but Could I have 2 receivers hooked up to this to switch between?
Is there any noticeable sound degradation when running this unit? I don't plan on comparing speakers or amps. I just love the look of the vu meters so I am considering running this between my receiver and my speakers.
@Douglas Blake Awesome. Thanks for the info.
FYI, you mentioned Rocktopus on the other vid, Eric Johnson has a track with the same name written by his bass player.
Huge laugh today. Thanks Randy!
Can this be hooked up through tape Loop? Or could you just use the tape outputs on a receiver to feed it? Is it strictly necessary that the signal go through it before it reaches the speakers, or could it be put in parallel as if it were a tape recorder?
as doug said below this hooks up between your amp and the speakers.
@Douglas Blake Ah. My mistake. I thought that that low level signals headed into the amps passed through the box. Now I see that the amp connection is for the amp's speaker output. Thanks.
Different units have different functions. I have the Douk Audio VU2. That unit has multiple line inputs switchable by remote and, of course, the VU meters. That can be used in a tape loop. I don't have it set up that way, but it was my original plan.
@@andrewwilson8273 That sounds cool. Ideally, if all one wanted was VU meters, it seems best to not send the signal through them, but instead, to hook them up to an unused tape output.
@@EskWIRED if all you want is moving meters and yellow lights then get the Douk Audio VU2.
That model has a built in microphone. So it does not even need a connection to an audio signal.
In fact, on my system, although I use the switching all the time, I leave the meters on mic input.
Of course it picks up and responds to background noise but that's not even something I notice if I am not listening to music or watching a movie.
Have you tried the one little bear with a tube amp? I know they can have problems with no load.
I’m so tempted to get one. Have a Yamaha as 801 and would like a 1200 but don’t have the $$ so might settle for this.
As someone who owned corners horns years ago I can tell you that horn type speakers tend to cause listening fatigue.
I've been sayin this for the last 2 years, nobsound/douk/brz audio, i like em, and ive tried many, using nobsound separates at the time, I always keep one around and their really really good and have beat alot of the much higher priced stuff out of the room head t head, almost everytime it's very strange, for the money their incredible and I'll always keep them around.
Also on VU3 - tube amps may get damged if they suddenly loose the load.
I find all the visual stuff on audio gear to be kind of a distraction, especially the blue LEDs we apparently import straight from hell. I run Kodi and Amazon from my HTPC, which has a the silly motherboard lights disabled. I use a blank back screen in Kodi. When I had my Denon receiver it was dimmed all the way and I put electrical tape on anything else.
Hearing music in a completely blacked out room takes some getting used to but it's a really cool experience.
Can I use it to test sound producing equipment or do you know one that do so?
I press record on my tape deck and turn up the record volume to max, then use the VU meter on the tape deck to check my input levels to my vintage amp from my audio interface. Digital signals are way too hot these days.
Hi Randy, great review. Ive bought the vu meters just for show. I saw your amp but im anal, the brushed finish didnt match. Are you are of any amps with a similiar finish of that size ? Thx !!
Been wanting one
Cool product and something that should make your job to review and compare gear much easier.
No experience with the RP500M. When putting together my modest vinyl corner a while back I bought the R-51M based on a review and a ridiculous low price, $99.00 and then replaced by the 600M based on multiple reviews and price, again! I didn't like them that much for a long time, months, and then something happened and they grew on me and sound very good but, maybe, somewhat fatiguing if listening for a long time at high volume. The R-51M ended up in my bedroom hooked up to a recycled Onkyo receiver, a Sony Blu Ray player and a 50" TCL TV. What to replace the 600 with to get a "more mature" sound? Not crazy about returning stuff and I'm running out of room to recycle gear.
I've liked the RP500m more and more over time
Looks great. That said I already have a 6 way speaker amp switch with individual level controls. Now, whether this affects the sound is something else. It does have a bunch of transformer impedance matching inside. Still good for multi comparisons, but I think in general comparing more than 2 speakers at once creates issues as all the speakers being next to each other doesn't sound the same as when they are alone in the room
I almost bought one a few months ago but didn't know if you could play speakers A and B at the same time. Was hoping to use this as a switch and zone control. Any insight Randy?
By the way, Have you ever laid a hand on the LOne Little Bear Preamp Switch with the same outlook, but RCA ports on AFT? I found a lot Reviews about the speaker switches, but I only saw just 1 (One) Critical Review of the Preamp Switch... This "Sister" product is used to multiply the number of sources for an Amplifier with just one RCA input, like the Ayiyima T9, up to 4 Sources... Or you can use it the other way around, and switch a single source to 4 Amplifiers with just a little switch....
To be frank: Recordology mentioned, that he had massive distortion with the little bear in his line.... But what should we know without a second opinion? Maybe his piece was a Monday item? Who knows...Douk Audio VU2 MIC+LINE Dual Analog VU Meter...
does it affect/color the sound in anyway?
hi How do I connect the same source to two amplifiers, when I use switcher ?
Can the Douk VU3 be used w/ a vintage receiver from the 70s?
I wonder if it could be used to switch other equipment such as CD players or phono inputs. Like having two turntables hooked to the Amp side inputs, and then outputting via a single speaker output to a phono amp and then patch to receiver or amp.
Douk Audio VU2 is the unit you want. Slightly different design but with VUs and remote control. 4 line inputs to a single output. Or a single line in to multiple line outs.
I am in need of some uv meters... I always question whether i made the right decision to go with the RP-150m over the RP-500m. I haven't A/B'd them but the 150 supposedly has tamed highs. Im curious what you think of the Tannoy sound. Have you tried anything like the Tannoy Studio 8?
I've never heard a Tannoy. I'd love to, but I haven't
Dude! I’ve been staring at this thing for a while now to add into my vinyl system. I have no need for this at all, but damn it looks cool! I wish it was a wider unit, it’s so small compared to my other gear lol. I bought their little mono bloc sub amp about a year ago for one of my subs, and it’s stupid great!
FOSI AUDIO LC30 and NEOHIPO ET30 seem to be products with similar functions, and the product is larger, ET30 will be more retro.