The Absolute Sound Podcast

Marantz Stereo 70s Stereo A/V Receiver Review

DESCRIPTIONIf the novelty of your soundbar has worn off, or you’re in the market for a receiver or amplifier that provides an opportunity to tidy all those cables in addition to presenting the music you love on hi-fi stereo, Marantz had you in mind when creating the Stereo 70s AV Receiver. Jason's music for this review: https://open.qobuz.com/playlist/28143020The Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.com00:00 Marantz Stereo 70s Stereo A/V Receiver01:15 Overview02:29 How does it Sound?07:53 User Experience13:22 ConclusionWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Speakers Series: Magico M7 Loudspeaker Review

The Magico M7 is an extraordinary speaker, as it should be at its price point. Except price isn’t always a good indicator of sonic quality to the degree you might expect. And even allowing for price and appropriate budget, the M7 will mainly appeal to knowledgeable music lovers.00:00 Magico M700:36 Specs & Design05:08 Sound Quality13:04 Thoughts on Value18:58 SummaryThe Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comTom Martin’s Reference System:Aurender N200 ServerRoon Nucleus serverMac Mini (M2) serverWiim Pro server/DACBluesound Node server/DACTopping D70 Pro DACdCS Lina DAC/Master clockBerkeley Alpha DAC Reference Series 3 with Alpha USB Series 2 input moduleJ Sikora Initial Max turntableTechnics SL-1210G turntableKuzma 4Point 9” armJ Sikora KV12 tone armDS Audio 003 cartridgeBenz Gullwing SLR cartridgeHana Umami Blue cartridgeHegel V10 phono preampMusical Surroundings Phonomena III phono preampDS Audio 003 optical cartridge energizerAudio Research Reference 6SE preampPS Audio BHK 600 mono power ampsMBL N51 integrated amplifierMagico A5 speakersWireworld Platinum Electra speaker and line cablesShunyata Omega digital cablesShunyata Venom power cables and directorAVN Systems acoustic designRediacoustic diffusers and absorbersRediacoustic bass trapsSalamander racksSolidsteel Turntable rackWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Speakers Series: Wilson Sasha V Revisited

DESCRIPTIONIn our loudspeaker brand surveys, Wilson Audio is consistently rated the highest by consumers. This is not an accident in my view, as the company has a long history of excellence, is supported by one of the best dealer networks in the world and continues to improve its products at a steady pace. Wilson has carved out this position in part by exploring the state of the art with the WAMM Master Chronosonic ($890,000 per pair) Put image labelled WAMM here which debuted in 1981, and the XVX Chronosonic ($349,000 per pair). But I sense that the Wilson reputation depends even more on its lower priced (not to be confused with low priced) speakers, in particular the Sasha V ($48,900 per pair). The Sasha V works for a lot of people who’ve heard it, and I thought it was time to look into what exactly that special sauce is.00:00 Wilson Sasha V00:55 Specs & Design02:11 Sound Quality06:31 Sound Quality 2: Alan Taffel's Thoughts10:38 SummaryThe Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comTom Martin’s Reference System:Aurender N200 ServerRoon Nucleus serverMac Mini (M2) serverWiim Pro server/DACBluesound Node server/DACTopping D70 Pro DACdCS Lina DAC/Master clockBerkeley Alpha DAC Reference Series 3 with Alpha USB Series 2 input moduleJ Sikora Initial Max turntableTechnics SL-1210G turntableKuzma 4Point 9” armJ Sikora KV12 tone armDS Audio 003 cartridgeBenz Gullwing SLR cartridgeHana Umami Blue cartridgeHegel V10 phono preampMusical Surroundings Phonomena III phono preampDS Audio 003 optical cartridge energizerAudio Research Reference 6SE preampPS Audio BHK 600 mono power ampsMBL N51 integrated amplifierMagico A5 speakersWireworld Platinum Electra speaker and line cablesShunyata Omega digital cablesShunyata Venom power cables and directorAVN Systems acoustic designRediacoustic diffusers and absorbersRediacoustic bass trapsSalamander racksSolidsteel Turntable rackWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Speakers $10k-20k Series: Kaya Audio VIVA 45 Review

Robert returns with his review of the idiosyncratic but no less impressive VIVA 45's. Does their unique enclosure produce a novel sound? Listen in to learn more...The Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Robert's Reference System: -Turntable: VPI Classic Signature with the 10 inch gimbal tone arm and Nordost wiring.-Cartridge: DS Audio 003 with matching energizer.-DAC: DCS Bartok( currently out to get the Apex upgrade).-Pre-amp: McIntosh C2700 tube preamp-Power amp: McIntosh MC 462-Speakers: Magico S1 Mk 2 with ISO acoustics Gaia 2 feet.-Power conditioner: Shunyata Gemini-8 with the grounding system.-AC outlets: PS Audio.-Cables: Synergistic Research and AudioquestNewsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/news...Facebook: / theabsolutesound Substack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack...What Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Turntables Over $10-20k Series: Pear Blue Audio Aras Turntable Review

Robert has spent some time with the Pear Blue Audio ARAS Turntable, diving into its design, features, and sound quality – here’s what he discovered.00:00 Pear Blue Audio Aras Turntable00:48 Specs & Design06:36 Set Up7:17 How to Play10:26 Sound Quality13:28 ConclusionThe Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Robert's Reference System: -Turntable: VPI Classic Signature with the 10 inch gimbal tone arm and Nordost wiring.-Cartridge: DS Audio 003 with matching energizer.-DAC: DCS Bartok( currently out to get the Apex upgrade).-Pre-amp: McIntosh C2700 tube preamp-Power amp: McIntosh MC 462-Speakers: Magico S1 Mk 2 with ISO acoustics Gaia 2 feet.-Power conditioner: Shunyata Gemini-8 with the grounding system.-AC outlets: PS Audio.-Cables: Synergistic Research and AudioquestNewsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/news...Facebook: / theabsolutesound Substack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack...What Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Speakers $20k-$40k Series: Perlisten S7t SE Review

DESCRIPTIONThe Perlisten S7t is a very special speaker. Special because it does some sonic things particularly well. Special because its design is different. And special because this is a speaker that will be favored by specific kinds of listeners. 00:00 The Perlisten S7t00:34 Specs & Design04:41 Sound Quality11:25 Sound Quality: Listening Examples15:26 Voicing21:31 SummaryThe Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comTom Martin’s Reference System:Aurender N200 ServerRoon Nucleus serverMac Mini (M2) serverWiim Pro server/DACBluesound Node server/DACTopping D70 Pro DACdCS Lina DAC/Master clockBerkeley Alpha DAC Reference Series 3 with Alpha USB Series 2 input moduleJ Sikora Initial Max turntableTechnics SL-1210G turntableKuzma 4Point 9” armJ Sikora KV12 tone armDS Audio 003 cartridgeBenz Gullwing SLR cartridgeHana Umami Blue cartridgeHegel V10 phono preampMusical Surroundings Phonomena III phono preampDS Audio 003 optical cartridge energizerAudio Research Reference 6SE preampPS Audio BHK 600 mono power ampsMBL N51 integrated amplifierMagico A5 speakersWireworld Platinum Electra speaker and line cablesShunyata Omega digital cablesShunyata Venom power cables and directorAVN Systems acoustic designRediacoustic diffusers and absorbersRediacoustic bass trapsSalamander racksSolidsteel Turntable rackWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X Open Back Studio Headphones

DESCRIPTIONMost headphones today are intended for one of two markets. They're either for listeners who want to remain at home with their stereo system and enjoy that intimate, solitary sonic experience. Or they're for listeners who are on the go and want to use music off their smartphone or their laptop while they're traveling. Yes, there are models that say they do everything for everyone, but few actually do. Of course, for every rule, there are exceptions. And the subject of today's review, the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X Open Back Studio Headphones.Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, podcast and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Amplifiers $5K to $10k Series: Hegel H400 Streaming Integrated Amplifier

DESCRIPTIONIn the final quarter of 2024, Hegel debuted
their new H4 100 integrated amplifier build to replace the very popular
H3 90, of which I am a long time owner. That AMP has traditionally been
one of the biggest sellers for the Norwegian company,
and its popularity gives the H 400 a lot to live up to.00:00 Hegel H40000:45 Overview02:10 Specs & Design07:58 Sound Quality 13:49 DAC & Streamer19:25 Preamp20:56 Is it for you?23:28 SummaryThe Absolute Sound’s Review Methodology: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-absolute-sounds-review-methodology-first-principles/Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Speakers $5k to $10k Series: Paradigm Founder 80F Speaker

DESCRIPTIONParadigm is a Canadian company that has been around for about 40 years. Their Founder 80 speaker is part of their premium line, made in a factory near Toronto—about seven hours from where I live now.Although I’ve owned over 100 pairs of speakers over the years, strangely enough, I had never owned a Paradigm speaker. So, you can imagine my excitement when I finally got my hands on one!00:00 Overview01:54 First Impressions03:36 Specs & Design6:41 Sound Quality 7:58 Are they for you?08:56 SummaryNewsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, podcast and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound

Best Wireless Earbuds Series: Denon PerL Pro Wireless

Have you ever had an experience so revelatory that it brings into question everything you know on a particular subject? Undoubtedly, you have. I have recently had an event like this occur in the realm of personal audio. Historically, I have reserved the use of personal audio for listening while exercising and this is where my review of the Denon PerL Pro Premium True Wireless earbuds begins.Newsletter: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/newsletterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabsolutesoundSubstack: https://www.theabsolutesound.substack.comWhat Is The Absolute Sound?The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, podcast and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound