-
The Case for Analog – Part 2: The Sound
Analog audio may be inconvenient and imperfect, but its ability to convey musical realism remains unmatched. From recording techniques to playback nuances, this in-depth exploration makes the case for why vinyl and reel-to-reel continue to captivate—and why the soul of music might still live in analog.
-
How Music Streaming Services Are Killing Music
Streaming has changed how we listen to music—but not always for the better. In this post, I explore how the subscription model undermines ownership, devalues artistry, and erodes the deep emotional connection we once had with music. From generational listening to the decline of the album, this is a call to reclaim the music we…
-
The Case for Analog – Part 1: The Journey
From film photography to vinyl and reel-to-reel tapes, this post traces a personal journey through the rise, fall, and resurgence of analog media. It’s a reflection on process, discovery, and why now is the perfect time to return to analog.
-
A Tale of Two Amplifiers: Tube Stereotype Redefined
The 300B and EL34 tubes are often dismissed as too soft, too warm, or lacking bass — stereotypes born from uninspired designs. But in the hands of Engström Sound and Kondo Audio Note, these legendary tubes are completely redefined. This post explores two amplifiers — the Engström Arne and the Kondo Melius — that challenge…
-
Hi-Fi Rebellion: An Unorthodox Guide to Put Together A Hi-Fi System
What if everything we’ve been told about building a high-end audio system is wrong? In this unorthodox guide, I challenge the industry’s obsession with power-hungry speakers and amplifier overkill. From boutique speaker design to overlooked essentials like room acoustics and second-hand gems, this post is a call to rethink, rebuild, and rediscover what truly matters…
-
Hi-Fi Reviewers and Dealers
In the ever-evolving world of high-end audio, navigating reviews, forums, and dealer advice can feel like walking through a minefield. This post unpacks the role of hi-fi reviewers — both credible and questionable — the subjectivity of listening, and the vital but often overlooked importance of great dealers. Drawing on personal experience and hard-earned lessons,…
-
Living with Kondo Audio Note ONGAKU: A Journey into Sonic Purity
An in-depth, personal account of living with the legendary Kondo Audio Note ONGAKU amplifier. From first impressions and tube rolling to system synergy and emotional connection, this post explores how the ONGAKU not only reshaped the sound of music — but refined how music is heard.
-
Blumenhofer Acoustics Corona 4×180 Speakers
A personal journey into discovering, fine-tuning, and ultimately falling in love with the Blumenhofer Acoustics Corona 4×180 loudspeakers. This post chronicles how a chance demo turned into a long-term relationship with the most lifelike, emotionally engaging speakers I’ve ever heard — and why I believe they’re the finest in Blumenhofer’s entire lineup.