EPISODE · Mar 16, 2026 · 1H 27M
Perfect Sound Forever: Why Aren’t We There Yet? w/ Rob Watts
from the ecoustics podcast · host Black Circle Studios
Join Chord Electronics’ digital audio consultant Rob Watts as he dives deep into the challenges of reproducing lifelike sound from 16-bit/44.1kHz PCM. From his groundbreaking DAC designs—spanning $650 to $20,000—to why off-the-shelf chips can’t compete, Rob explains how his unique approach goes beyond conventional measurement-based audio engineering. He also previews Chord’s next flagship product, the Quartet M Scaler, which will build on the Hugo M Scaler, and shares his thoughts on DSD, the importance of cables, and hidden sonic factors like RF and power supply issues. Even 45 years after the CD’s debut, there’s still high-resolution audio left to uncover.Sponsors: Thank you to our sponsors SVS & ShurePanel:Rob Watts, Digital Audio Consultant, Chord ElectronicsBrian Mitchell, Host & eCoustics FounderCredits:Original intro music by The Arc of All. https://sourceoflightandpower.bandcamp.comVoice Over Provided by Todd Harrell of SSP Unlimited. https://sspunlimited.comProduction by Mitch Anderson, Black Circle Studios. https://blackcircleradio.comKeep up-to-date with all the latest Hi-Fi, Headphone, Home Theater and Music news by visiting: https://www.ecoustics.com#ecoustics #dacs #chordelectronics #audioengineering #digitalaudio #musicstreaming #hifi #audiophile
What this episode covers
Join Chord Electronics’ digital audio consultant Rob Watts as he dives deep into the challenges of reproducing lifelike sound from 16-bit/44.1kHz PCM. From his groundbreaking DAC designs—spanning $650 to $20,000—to why off-the-shelf chips can’t compete, Rob explains how his unique approach goes beyond conventional measurement-based audio engineering. He also previews Chord’s next flagship product, the Quartet M Scaler, which will build on the Hugo M Scaler, and shares his thoughts on DSD, the importance of cables, and hidden sonic factors like RF and power supply issues. Even 45 years after the CD’s debut, there’s still high-resolution audio left to uncover.Sponsors: Thank you to our sponsors SVS & ShurePanel:Rob Watts, Digital Audio Consultant, Chord ElectronicsBrian Mitchell, Host & eCoustics FounderCredits:Original intro music by The Arc of All. https://sourceoflightandpower.bandcamp.comVoice Over Provided by Todd Harrell of SSP Unlimited. https://sspunlimited.comProduction by Mitch Anderson, Black Circle Studios. https://blackcircleradio.comKeep up-to-date with all the latest Hi-Fi, Headphone, Home Theater and Music news by visiting: https://www.ecoustics.com#ecoustics #dacs #chordelectronics #audioengineering #digitalaudio #musicstreaming #hifi #audiophile
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Perfect Sound Forever: Why Aren’t We There Yet? w/ Rob Watts
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