Crutchfield: The Podcast

JR and Huffy are joined by Mulligan — Crutchfield advisor,AV design specialist, and all-around full-service operation — to talk about all the inexpensive (and sometimes free) things you can do to make your home speakers sound as good as they possibly can. The conversation covers where to put your speakers and why pulling them off the wall matters more than you might think, how to treat your room's acoustics without going overboard, why you should decouple your speakers from the floor, and how to use your receiver's room calibration to take the room itself out of the equation. Mulligan also brings a few bonus tips, including one surprisingly simple digital trick that costs absolutely nothing and can immediately improve your sound quality — no new gear required. Whether you've got a modest bookshelf setup or a serious multi-room system, this episode gives you practical, real-world ways to get more out of speakers you already own. Got questions? Reach the team at [email protected]. Acoustic Panels & Treatments | Crutchfield Vibration Isolators | Crutchfield Crutchfield: The Podcast home page

You bought new car speakers — now what? JR and Huffy welcome Peter, a Crutchfield merchandising veteran and former sales trainer, to talk about getting your speakers to live up to their potential. The guys tackle one of car audio's most misunderstood products — speaker baffles — and set the record straight on what they actually do, when you need them, and when you might want to grab a knife to make a small modification. From there, it's on to Fast Rings, sound deadening (Dynamat, Hushmat, SoundSkins — a little goes a long way), and installation tips that apply whether  you're swapping a blown factory speaker or building a seriousupgrade. Think of it as all the stuff nobody tells you the first timeyou tackle a car speaker install — but absolutely should. Gotquestions about baffles, sound deadening, or anything car speaker related? Email the team at [email protected] if you want to get ahead of next month's episode — all about making your home speakers sound their best — sendthose questions in too. Click here for all things Crutchfield: The Podcast related

JR and Huffy go head-to-head in a debate to answer one of the biggest questions in home entertainment: should you buy an ultra-short throw projector or a large TV? Spoiler alert: there's no loser here, only the right choice for your room, your budget, and how big you want to go.They examine the 98-to-120-inch sweet spot where these two technologies collide, covering everything from installation complexity and sound system placement to screen selection, ambient light performance, and real-world 4K considerations. JR brings the customer reviews; Huffy brings the firsthand experience. Together they'll help you figure out which big-screen setup belongs in your living room.Want more info to help you decide between a projector and a TV? Check out our How to choose a home theater projector article:https://www.crutchfield.com/learn/home-theater-projector-buying-guide.htmlTVs 80” and uphttps://www.crutchfield.com/g_146350/All-TVs.html?fa=1#&nvpair=FFScreen_Size|[rank7]80%22%20and%20upUltra Short Throw Projectorshttps://www.crutchfield.com/g_160150/Projectors.html?fa=1#&nvpair=AG_Mounting%20Options|YCUltra_Short_ThrowScreens for UST projectorshttps://www.crutchfield.com/g_160250/Projector-Screens.html?fa=1#&nvpair=AG_Features|FFUltra_short_throw

JR and Huffy may not have been in Las Vegas for CES 2026, but that isn’t going to stop them from talking about all the new gear from many Crutchfield brands. We discuss Samsung's Micro RGB televisions, LG’s newest OLED screens, wireless TVs, Klipsch Reference Signature home theater speakers, and new powered speakers. SVS debuts asoundbar that’s sure to be loud and proud, and Samsung takes Q-symphony to the next level with their Music Studio 5 and 7 speakers. In the world of car audio, Pioneer makes a splash with their new Sphera 10.1" floating touchscreen stereo with Dolby Atmos® that’s sure to enliven your commute. All this, plus much more in our January podcast episode. Please keep in mind, we are talking about products that may or may not get released in 2026; we don’t have any of this confirmed for availability or pricing at the time of this recording.Pioneer SPHERA | Spatial Audio for AllSamsung’s Serious Studio 5 & 7 Speakers. Listen UP! Klipsch Goes All In with Next Gen of Powered Speakers at… | Klipsch LG OLED evo W6: 9mm Wallpaper TV with True Wireless Tech | LG USA

JR and Huffy wrap up 2025 and the fifth season of Crutchfield: The Podcast by taking questions from our fans and providinghelpful answers. Things vary from simple compliments to deep inquiries about the quality of vintage home audio gear in comparison to newer products. One savvy fan asked about a new Pioneer retro-style car stereo that’s only available in Europe (for now). As one final gift to our listeners, JR, Zak, and Ned read and responded to some of the comments left by viewers of our YouTube channel. The comments were very observant, creative, and mostly respectful. Think Mean Tweets, but nicer!  Links to products discussed in this episode:The Pioneer SXT-C10PS, currently only available in Europe (Pioneer's EU site)Onkyo Home Theater Receivers (Crutchfield.com)Analog only Integrated Amps (Crutchfield.com)

This week Huffy and JR take turns sharing some amazing giftideas available at Crutchfield. Car stereos, subwoofers, cameras, record players, and some surprise picks! And remember: if you're buying something for yourself, we won't know the difference.Note: pricing and availability are subject to change. We’dlove to answer your questions in our December episode; please email [email protected] with any queries about consumer electronics gear. If you don’t make it in time for our December recording, maybe we’ll address your question in a subsequent episode. Either way, we’d love to hear from you!As promised, here are links to all the gift ideas we sharedin this episode:Belkin Stage PowerGrip Camera gripBelkin UltraCharge Qi2-compatible, 3-in-1 foldable magnetic chargerLG OLED65C5PUA (65") OLED evo AI C5 Smart 4K TVSony BRAVIA 7 (65") Smart Mini LED 4K UHD TV with HDRSquier Sonic® Stratocaster® Pack SVS 3000 Micro Ultra-compact powered subwooferAlpine prismalink subwoofersSennheiser HDB 630 Over-ear wireless Bluetooth® noise-canceling headphonesCanon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A digital cameraSony Alpha ZV-E10 OSS II Zoom Lens Kit mirrorless camera kitDJI mic 3DJI rs 4 MINIJVC KW-M590BT Digital multimedia receiverKeep Car Alarm Connected video security — mounts in cupholderSoundburger Portable Record PlayerJBL Grip Waterproof portable Bluetooth® speaker with ambient lightKala Red Light Face Mask

Fender, the iconic brand of guitars, basses, and amps, isnow available at Crutchfield. To celebrate this momentous occasion JR and Huffy (not guitar players) invite some of Crutchfield’s most experienced guitarists to talk about the instruments they love so much. Ned and Charlie have beenvery busy writing about all the new Fender products but were able to take some time away from their keyboards to join JR and chat Fender gear. Cory and Rodell then take to the mic to discuss how Fenderand Crutchfield are working together to provide the legendary Crutchfield experience for anybody looking for Fender gear. What type of training are we doing? Do we have special Advisors to help our Fender shoppers? What are wecarrying and how do we support it all? All those questions (and more) are answered in this episode of Crutchfield The Podcast.Shop Fender at Crutchfield

JR and Huffy share the online resources they use to stay upto date on the latest in audio, video, sound, car stereo installation, and more. The Crutchfield website is a great place to educate yourself about the gear so you can shop intelligently for TVs, home theater, car stereo, speakers, amps, subs, cameras, drones, and more!  We use these resources to do our jobs more effectively atCrutchfield, and we're happy to share some favorites with our listeners. There are plenty of other great resources out there — hopefully this episode will help you start your next project or make your next gear purchase. Here's a list of the resources we covered in this month's episode: www.rtings.com www.20k.org cheapaudioman - YouTube Car Audio Fabrication - Custom Techniques , Video Tutorials Car Audio Andrew Robinson Reviews Digital Trends - YouTube CalebRated - YouTube

Emily, a Crutchfield editor and one of our TV writers, joins JR and Huffy to talk about her picks for the top TVs for 2025. She explains the reasoning behind her picks and provides some updates that weren’t in the original article. If you are interested in televisions or are just wondering which one might be best for your TV watching situation, thisepisode is a must-listen! You can also check out the Best TVs for 2025 article that we used as the basis for this discussion.Shop TVs

JR and Huffy/Eric invite Matt Palumbo to discuss the new Stinger HORIZON10 10" floating-screen infotainment center, along with where car stereo is headed. The HORIZON10 is a feature-packed digital multimedia receiver that integrates capably with Jeeps and other vehicles. It also plays well with AudioControl DSP devices and other peripherals. It’s another example of the future of car stereo. If you have a Jeep, you need to hear this! In this episode we discuss the Stinger HORIZON10 as well as AudioControl DSPs. You’ll definitely want to enter your car in to the website to see if we have any vehicle-specific solutions for you.

Factory car stereos have become so much harder to replace in the last few years. The radio in the dash is so integrated with the vehicle systems and features that it can be almost impossible to replace. Now, JVC/Kenwood have teamed up with ADS (the makers of the iDatalink Maestro OEM interface), and the result is Direct Replacement. Finally, we can offer radio replacement solutions for millions of cars that were previously difficult or impossible to upgrade.In this episode JR and Huffy (aka Eric) interview Kelvin Riviera from JVC/Kenwood to discuss how this all came about, get into some specifics about Direct Replacement, and have some fun talking about the future of car stereo. If you want to see the Kenwood Direct Replacement stereos, here’s our YouTube video. To find out if there’s a Direct Replacement option for your car, enter your vehicle and then go to custom car stereos

In this special bonus episode Eric and JR explore thequestion, “Do you need to go to the theater to enjoy movies, or can they be just as good on a home theater?” To get to the bottom of this, the guys brought in some experts and did some of their own research. First they talked with Bryan Loy from Alamo Drafthouse Cinema about why people go to movies, especially at his theaters, as well as how he watches movies. Then Eric brings his 10-year-old son Porter into the studio to share his thoughts on movies, Dolby Atmos, Minecraft, books, WWII, and more. Porter also schools JR on the lingo the kids are using these days. He’s got plenty of rizz, that’s for sure. Eric and JR go see a movie!Thinking about making your home theater feel more like amovie theater? Here are some articles you might find helpful: TV Buying GuideHow to choose a home theater projectorHome theater receivers: The complete beginner's guideIntro to home theater speakersSmall home theater ideasBest Dolby Atmos sound bars for 2025

JR’s mother is pretty cool. So cool that she recently boughtnew speakers and installed them in her 2008 Ford Escape. JR interviewed her after she finished the installation to see how it went, and to show the world how much he loves his mom.  If you are considering your own car audio installation, weare here to help. We offer plenty of insightful articles to get you going, tons of information on the products, expert Advisors for assistance in finding the right products, tech support for your new gear, and 60 days to make sure youlove it. Car stereo buying guideCar speakers buying guideCar subwoofer buying guideCar amplifier buying guide

JR and Eric invite Tech Support Supervisor Cris Baker intothe new podcast studio at Crutchfield HQ to discuss the latest developments in EVs and hybrids and what can be done to improve their sound systems. We know a lot more about these vehicles today than we did just a few years ago, as Cris explains. Cris is also working hard to fill in the information gaps so we can be even smarter about how you can put a new system in your EV or hybrid more safely.  The guys also have some fun talking about their favorite EVsand which ones they would take home today, if money were no object. There are also some new EVs on the horizon that have piqued our interest. Alpine has developed some impressive systems specifically for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y cars,  and even made a thorough installation video so you can see what’s involved before you buy. We are pretty excited about the future of audio in EVs, and you’ll know why as you listen to this episode.  Additionally, Cris and JR answer pertinent questions fromthe owner of a 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E about adding a powered subwoofer to his system. We have custom audio packages for more than just Teslas, Go here, enter your car in to the site and see what we have for your ride: Custom-fit Audio Packages at CrutchfieldCheck out Alpine’s Tesla installation video here.

We’ve been researching cars since the early days ofCrutchfield. It’s how we know what stereos, speakers, amps, subs, and more fit your vehicle. How do we do it? Who takes apart dashes and measures speaker locations? Where do we get the cars? And maybe most importantly: How can youhelp? This episode is a deep dive into the world of Crutchfield Vehicle Research. As you listen to this episode, you can play along as JRquizzes his co-host Eric about all things Vehicle Research. The answers can be found in these articles:The history of Crutchfield's car audio DIY supportWho was the Crutchfield Installation Doctor?The Crutchfield Vehicle Research TeamResearch your car the Crutchfield way

Bill Crutchfield opened our tech support department in 1979;before that, Bill was the tech support department. Now it’s a group of around 70 people helping our customer get their shiny new toys up and running. JR asked our technicians if they had any interesting stories from their experiences working with customers, and it turns out they do! This episode features several of our techs sharing their stories. And along the way we find out about them as people, what makes them tick, what the enjoy most about helping our customers. It’s a fascinating look into the world of tech support done right. And remember you get free tech support for life with everyCrutchfield purchase. Tech Support - Crutchfield - Audio, video, and more. Since 1974.What you need to know about HDMI ARC and eARC (crutchfield.com)Revive the Drive

We put out a call for questions on Facebook and Instagram: Things you, our fans, would like us to discuss on the podcast. You gave us plenty to talk about, and talk about it we did! We couldn't think of a better way to start our fifth season of the show than interacting with our listeners. We discuss tweeter styles, amplifier power, and how to replace the radio in Chevy Suburbans.   Also: Valentine's day is coming up, so we thought of some Valentine's day gift ideas for your sweetie that might be better than traditional chocolates and flowers. Give the gifts of energy, music, and togetherness instead.   mophie phone chargers: mophie at Crutchfield Sony WH-1000XM5 (Black) Over-ear Bluetooth® wireless noise-canceling headphones at Crutchfield Apple AirPods:  Bluetooth Headphones: Wireless, Noise-Canceling & more - Crutchfield.com Crutchfield: The Podcast

We get a lot of people interested in using headphones with their TV. Some want to listen on just headphones, while others need the headphones to work at the same time as the TV sound is on for others. In this episode we dive in to how to use headphones with your TV the way that works for your household. This is also our season 4 finale, and we brought in a special guest. Eric and J.R. welcome Mullins, one of our excellent Training Managers, to the show. If you want more info, check out our top recommendations for TV headphones or begin with our headphone buying guide. Our headphone glossary will help you understand all the headphone-specific terminology, so you can shop smarter. All wireless headphones

We are super excited to be talking about Home Theater in this third episode of our four-part series that examines the best ways to make your TV sound as good as it looks. JR and Eric go in to the speakers needed for surround sound, and the home theater receivers that power those speakers. If you are considering whether home theater is the thing for you, this episode should give you the guidance you need.   If you like to read, and you want more, you should check out our beginner’s guide to home theater receivers and our Introduction to home theater speakers. And if you want some more guidance, and some visuals that will help you with speaker placement for home theater, we’ve got you covered.   Home theater receivers Home speakers

In part two of this four-part series on TV sound solutions, JR and Eric dive deep on the idea of just using a stereo, 2-channel speaker set up to enhance your TV’s sound. This can be done with powered stereo speakers, or with passive speakers and a receiver. The guys go in to the connections needed to make this work. Are you more in to music, but also want your TV to sound bigger and better than the TV’s built-in speakers? This is the episode for you. If this episode is of interest to you, here’s some articles you might find helpful in your stereo system journey. This article explains the finer points of stereo speaker placement. And we put together a list of our favorite powered stereo speakers with full explanations as to why we love them. You’ll find all our powered stereo speakers that are ideal for use with a TV right here: Powered Stereo Speakers at Crutchfield

J.R. and Eric dive into the world of TV sound. In this first episode of a four-part series, the guys focus on the easiest and most popular way of making your TV sound awesome, sound bars. They talk about the various types of sound bars, how to hook them up properly, and help you determine which soundbar is right for you. In addition to this podcast, we have several helpful articles to make picking out a sound bar as easy as you pleasey. Check out our Sound bar buying guide, And if you are looking to do surround sound from just a sound bar, our best Dolby Atmos sound bars article is a good read, and lastly, if you want to know more about how to connect and set up your sound bar, we’ve got you covered.

It has arrived — the final episode of our series on how to build the perfect car audio system. Hosts J.R. and Eric have a powerful conversation about amplifiers, shedding light on industry jargon and offering shopping tips to find the best amp for your system. Choosing the right amp for your car stereo system can be crucial to achieving optimal sound quality and listening enjoyment. Your hosts explain the role amplifiers play in enhancing sound quality, increasing volume, and providing headroom. They discuss different types of amplifiers as well as the role of channels and RMS power. Need more details on the topics discussed? Check out our helpful car amplifier buying guide. And if you'd like to see if there's a vehicle-specific solution that helps your next amp installation go a little smoother, be sure to enter your vehicle information here.

J.R. and Eric are all about the bass in Part 3 of our series on how to build the perfect car audio system. Throw out your preconceived notions of subwoofers! You don't need to crave window-rattling bass to benefit from a sub. Your hosts outline every type of solution and promise that even if you're into subtlety, there's a sub for you. Find out more about all-in-one solutions, matching subs and amps, and choosing the perfect sub size. After you listen to the episode, essential reading includes our subwoofer wiring guide, buying guide, and instructions on how to build your own enclosure.

J.R. and Eric return for Part 2 of our series on how to build the perfect car audio system for your needs. Once again, your hosts explain the jargon and answer essential questions like, "What is RMS wattage?" and "Do I need to think about 'sensitivity'?" Find out more about speaker sizes, the importance of speaker materials, and all the good reasons to upgrade the factory speakers in your older vehicle. Ready to find out which speakers fit your vehicle? Start with our ⁠⁠⁠vehicle selector tool⁠⁠⁠. And for a recap of everything in this episode, check out our ⁠⁠⁠car speakers buying guide⁠⁠⁠.

Hosts J.R. and Eric kick off Season 4 with a nod to our 50th anniversary and an introduction to the show’s new format. This episode kicks off our four-part series all about car audio and how to choose the right gear for you and your vehicle. Your hosts dive into the car stereo category to explain the jargon, a little of the history, the main types of radios, and lots of favorite features. If you’re unafraid of a little DIY and looking to refresh your audio experience in the car, add some safety features, or finally step up to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this is the perfect listen. Plus, J.R. and Eric explain why integration gear is essential to getting the most from your new stereo. Ready to find out what fits your vehicle? Start with our vehicle selector tool: https://www.crutchfield.com/whatfits And for a recap of everything in this episode, check out our Car Stereo Buying Guide: https://www.crutchfield.com/learn/car-stereo-buying-guide.html Stay tuned for Part 2 of the series, all about car speakers!

Cohosts J.R. and Eric are joined by Crutchfield's in-house A/V demo expert, Dave. The trio talk about what makes a great demo as well as their favorite (and least favorite) demos that they've experienced during their time at Crutchfield. Then, J.R. reveals results from a company-wide poll of Crutchfield employees' favorite scenes to throw on and put their home theater system to the test. Tune in to hear if any of your favorite scenes are included in the conversation. If they aren't, be sure to let us know in the comments below. Looking for some great music to test an audio system? Check out our Spotify profile! (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4z0kIU5KvlzbK0wUBDJiEa) And if you want to get a sense of what new speakers can do before you buy them, try out our SpeakerCompare tool. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/BI5) Read episode transcript

Acclaimed speaker designer Andrew Jones returns to the podcast... er, Crutchfield LIVE... to discuss his latest creation, MoFi's SourcePoint 10 bookshelf speakers. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/BEV) He discusses an assortment of topics with J.R., from his decision to join MoFi's team to his thinking behind his newest design to his feelings on car audio. It's a casual and always entertaining conversation. And if video is your preference, check out the interview on our YouTube channel. (https://youtu.be/2T0M3492BcE)

J.R. and Eric can't resist kicking off the show with a little hard selling in the spirit of Black Friday deals (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B5F) but then quickly segue into an easygoing interview with Crutchfield employee Tara. Tara leads our video and social media team — she's a self-professed headphone addict (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B5G) and has also been a Sonos fan (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B5H) from the very start. During their chat, she and J.R. chat about their history as onscreen cohosts way back when, their favorite old gear, and Tara's totally one-of-a-kind treehouse (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B5I), which is a full-functioning listening and screening room. If you're in need of A/V inspiration, this episode is not to be missed!

When we talk about Legendary Service at Crutchfield, Norm is always top of mind. In this audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube and Facebook, J.R. chats with Norm about his history as an A/V installer, his expertise, and what he does at Crutchfield these days. Plus, the duo answer customer questions about all kinds of gear.

Our headphone guy Jeff (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B0Q) got the rare opportunity to chat with Grammy award-winning mixing engineer Manny Marroquin (http://www.mannymarroquin.com/). A veteran of the music industry for over 30 years, Manny has worked with the best artists in the business, including Alicia Keys, Ed Sheeran, Rihanna, and Kendrick Lamar. Jeff talks with him about his history in the business, his studio, his groundbreaking restaurant and live venue (https://www.verse.la/), and his recent work with Audeze (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B0R) designing the Audeze MM-500 open-back planar magnetic studio headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/B0S). Before, after, and at spots in between the interview, J.R., Eric, and Jeff provide the "Crutchfield take" on Manny's philosophy and work. Before all is said and done, J.R. breaks out the new Audeze MM-500 headphones for Eric and J.R. to try out for themselves!

J.R. introduces this audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube and Facebook. He talks with Mark of Car Audio Fabrications (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4FiN46mPTtkJxzRXJY21lQ), a YouTube channel devoted to making the car audio gear we sell look and sound great in all sorts of vehicles. Be sure to check out the Crutchfield Live episode with Mark (https://youtu.be/VaeYWaGOz6Y) to see the custom builds that he talks about in the episode!

Eric H. returns as co-host, and J.R. interviews Dolly in our corporate sales department. In this episode they discuss building a home entertainment system over time, musical tastes, and Dolly's work designing A/V systems for retail clients. Plus, J.R. decides he might have a future as a music rights enforcement officer! Oh, and visit https://www.crutchfield.com/learn/crutchfield-podcast.html to see Eric's pic of his improvised soundproofing.

J.R. and Crutchfield staff writer Eric A. (not to be confused with regular cohost Eric H.) chat with Chris Stringer (Syng CEO/Chief Design Officer) and Chris Kyriakakis (Syng Chief Audio Scientist) about Syng's Cell Alpha powered speaker. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/ATQ) They discuss balancing design with audio performance, the true meaning of stereo, the concept of "sweet spots" and a lot more. It's an informative discussion that might challenge your ideas about what home audio can and should be.

J.R. welcomes Advisor Tony to the show in this mash-up of two episodes of Crutchfield Live, which you can catch every other Thursday on YouTube and Facebook. The duo walk us through the process of qualifying Tony's 2010 Mazda 3 using our vehicle selector tool (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9X9) and then using filters to narrow down choices for all types of car audio gear. Some of the gear discussed includes: Hertz car speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9XA) Boss car stereos with Apple CarPlay (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9XB) Kicker subwoofers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9XC) JL Audio amplifiers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9XD) Plus, J.R. answers a number of customer questions, including one that a listener named Buzz sent into the show! If you'd like to have your question answered on the podcast, send an email to us at [email protected].

Cohosts J.R. and Eric are back in the studio to discuss a recent interview with Advisor Rodell, who's really into wireless gear (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T1). They chat about all kinds of topics, from similarities between Crutchfield and a fine dining experience, specialized short throw projector screens (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T2), covering songs by Katy Perry, and JBL's recent visit to our HQ (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T4).  Check out some of the gear they talk about: Eton Aqualite solar powered lantern and water bottle (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T6) NAD D 3020 V2 integrated amp and DAC (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T7) Sony WH-1000XM5 over-ear noise-cancelling headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T8) Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2 portable Bluetooth speaker (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9T9) Portable chargers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9TA) Plus, don't forget to check out what's happening on our livestream show, Crutchfield LIVE (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9TB).

In this episode we have something very special — Jeff, our resident headphones pro, conducts an exclusive interview with speaker visionary, Andrew Jones. Andrew shares his philosophy behind speaker design, his reasons for joining the team at MoFi, and what's next for him. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9PV) But before that, enjoy this audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube (www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). J.R. plays the "ported vs. sealed" game with Matt, our mobile electronics catalog editor. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9PW)They take music suggestions from Live viewers and compare notes on the best sub style for job. Then, Jeff walks J.R. through his visit to AXPONA, an audio electronics expo in Chicago. Intrested in finding out more about Jeff's AXPONA experience? Check out his photos and read the full story. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9PX)

J.R. and Eric are joined by Chris, Crutchfield trainer and resident Jeep pro, to discuss the ups and downs of owning a Wrangler, as well as ideas for customization. J.R. also interviews Crutchfield employee, Wendy, about her Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, all the upgrades she's made since buying it, her many off-road adventures, and the cool stuff she does with our Corporate Sales department (https://business.crutchfield.com/Corporate/Index.aspx). Some of the gear discussed in this episode includes: Polk Audio car speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9OK) JBL's DSP4086 8-channel amp with digital signal processing (crutchfield.com/r/9OL) JBL BassPro 12 ported powered sub (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9OM) Garmin's Overlander® portable navigator for off-road use (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9ON) Wrangler-specific audio gear (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9OO) If you'd like to find gear for your Jeep Wrangler, be sure to enter your vehicle info before shopping (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9OP). And if you need a little inspiration, check out the gear Chris installed in his '06 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9OR).

Who doesn't love free stuff? J.R. delivers the details on our regular gear giveaways (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9MP) which we announce on our live-streamed video show, Crutchfield Live. You can catch it every other Thursday on YouTube (www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). This special audio version of Crutchfield Live #10 reveals what else J.R. has added to his Subaru Crosstrek (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9MQ), Advisor Dylan's experience with the Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth® speaker (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9MR), staff writer Jeff's picks for best audiophile headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9MT), and more. Be sure to tune in next time when cohost Eric in an original podcast episode to discuss Jeep Wrangler-specific audio gear (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9MU).

J.R. and Eric introduce this audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube (www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). First, J.R. talks with Peter, one of our in-house marine audio experts, about the benefit of using tinned copper wire (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9L5). Then, he chats with Advisor Cam about our handy Connect ID shopping tool that makes getting help from an expert easier than ever. And finally, J.R. circles up with Zak from our video team to discuss DACs (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9L6) and some quirks he found when streaming high-resolution audio (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9L7) using a web browser. Plus, J.R. answers customer questions about ported vs. sealed sub boxes (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9L8) and more!

J.R. and Eric are back for Season 3! This time, J.R. interviews Crutchfield legend, Charlie Pastorfield, who helps craft our online experience for mobile electronics shoppers. Charlie is also a well-respected musician with decades of experience in the music industry (https://www.skipcastro.com/skipcastrobandstory.htm). He chats with J.R. about writing songs during the pandemic, his gear-buying addiction, and the philosophy behind his enviable home audio system. Meanwhile, Eric grapples with his feelings about Steely Dan, and they guys discuss big questions like, "What makes an audiophile?" and "Does quality speaker wire really matter?" If you're into high-fidelity audio, this is an episode you won't want to skip. Some of the gear discussed includes: Polk floor-standing speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9JT) Elac amplifiers and speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9JX) NAD amplifiers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9JZ) McIntosh amplifiers and more (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9K0) Panasonic DP-UB9000P1K 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9K1) You can see some Charlie talks about in his home studio, including his Linn Sondek turntable and his guitar collection, in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1PZBPWsys8&t=413s). Also, check out the story of his one-of-a-kind Telecaster guitar, made from the wood of a tree Thomas Jefferson planted (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/9K2).

It's our final bonus episode before Season 3 arrives in March. Check out this audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube (www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). J.R. and Eric review news from this year's Consumer Electronics Show and what technology to look for in 2022. Some of the gear discussed, like Mark Levinson's No. 5909 wireless noise-canceling headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/97J) and Sony's Airpeak S1 quadcopter drone (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/97K), are available for order or pre-order now. Plus, J.R. gets exclusive access to a virtual walkthrough of Klipsch's CES booth and finds out what's next from them. (https://www.crutchfield.com/brands/klipsch.aspx) Enjoy, and we'll talk to you again in Season 3!

It's yet another special audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). First, J.R. talks with Advisor Francis about the differences between OLED and LED TVs. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/95D) Then, he and Cris from Crutchfield Tech Support discuss what we know about upgrading car audio gear in electric vehicles. J.R. and Eric A. wrap up the show, chatting about cool home audio gear from Wharfdale (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/95E), ELAC (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/95F), Parasound (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/95G), Syng (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/95H), and more!

Check out another special audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which you can watch on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). After watching Dune in both an IMAX theater and Eric's home theater (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/91R), J.R. and Eric chat about the best parts of each experience. Also, Cris from Crutchfield's Tech Support (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/91S) stops by to talk about component car speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/91T) and how his team of experts help customers every day. Staff writer and demo pro (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/91U), Dave wraps up with the show with J.R. and they chat about integrating new and vintage gear.

Check out this special audio version of our live-streamed show, Crutchfield Live, which is available to watch on YouTube (www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/crutchfield/live_videos/). J.R. talks with a bunch of our category experts about the latest car and home audio, answers viewer questions, and shares holiday shopping advice. Some of the gear discussed in this episode includes: Sony Mobile ES Series speakers and subs (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8ZU) Sony Mobile ES Series XAV-9500ES digital multimedia receiver (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8ZV) Enclave Audio home theater speaker systems (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8ZW) Andover Audio turntables and components (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8ZX) Phono preamps (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8ZY) Be sure to stick around until the end of the episode for helpful tech tips, and look out for our next bonus episode in early December!

It's the end of Season 2, and what better way to celebrate than by answering real questions from real customers. J.R. and Eric cover a range of topics from car and home audio to vehicle warranties to whether you should buy or rent a modem. Here's a full episode breakdown: - Why do your holiday shopping now? - What's a good way to compare speakers when shopping online? - Will buying a router improve home internet speed? - What's the best way to build a home audio system around one component you love? - What's the best way to wire a sub (for your home and your vehicle)? - Can you add a new stereo to a '17 Wrangler Unlimited on a budget? - What should you keep in mind when matching car amps and subs? - Will upgrading factory audio gear void your vehicle's warranty? - What should you keep in mind when matching car speakers and stereos? - Will you lose your factory USB and aux inputs when installing a new car stereo? - What are J.R.'s and Eric's ideas for outfitting a '94 Ford Probe? And, of course... the links! - Check out J.R. and guests every other week on Crutchfield Live, streaming on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/crutchfield/videos)and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/crutchfield/videos). - Make shopping home and car speakers easier by using SpeakerCompare™ (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8VR). Thanks for listening and talk to you again soon in Season 3!

J.R. interviews Robin, part of the team responsible for our ReadyHarness service (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8O1). They chat about his work, the gear he loves, and some of his all-time favorite concerts. Plus, J.R. and cohost Eric react to a YouTube video review (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX8pYUz0-xc) from Ryan at Silly Reviews — he purchased a car stereo for his Volkswagen Jetta and used a ReadyHarness wired by Robin! Some of the gear discussed includes: Kicker car speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8O4) Alpine iLX-W650 digital multimedia receiver (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8O5) Nikon DSLR cameras (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8O6) JBL Bluetooth speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8O8) J.R. and Eric also preview the next and final episode of the season. They'll be answering listener questions, so be sure to submit yours — email the team at podcast[at]crutchfield.com or leave a comment at https://www.crutchfield.com/podcast.

J.R. catches up with Aaron Cochran of Balaton Marketing about the mountain of gear he owns and the select pieces he allows to take permanent residence in his home. A manufacturer's representative for companies like Yamaha (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8II), Klipsch (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IJ), and Sennheiser (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IK), he's a familiar face in the halls of Crutchfield, thanks to his popular training sessions on the latest and greatest gear.  J.R. and Aaron talk about his history in the industry, the pleasures of listening to vinyl, some awesome benefits of streaming high-res content, and audio gear that's made in the U.S.A. Some of the gear discussed includes: McIntosh ampifiers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IL) Klipsch Heritage Forte speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IM) MoFi turntables and accessories (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IN) Qobuz (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IO) and Tidal (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IQ) high-res streaming Sennheiser Ambeo sound bar (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8IR)

J.R. interviews Michael Buratto, a musician and Senior Product Manager at Klipsch, about his history with the company, the gear he uses to make and enjoy music, and what has made Klipsch an enduring brand for 75 years. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D4) Michael also hints at some fun speaker projects in the works. After the interview, J.R. and cohost Eric explore wireless home theater solutions when they answer a customer comment on our small home theater ideas article. (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D5) Some of the gear discussed includes: Klipsch headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D6) Klipsch The Three II powered speaker (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D7) Klipsch The Fives powered speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D8) Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F floor-standing speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8D9) Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-504C center channel speaker (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8DA) Klipsch SPL-150 powered subwoofer (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8DB) For more on Klipsch, check out J.R.'s recent Facebook Live overview. (www.facebook.com/22833929554/videos/309641007477554) Thanks to Michael for letting us use his song "Rule The World" in the episode outro. Find more of his music on Spotify. (open.spotify.com/artist/6qbNwhv0TSLyMvOia12whP)

J.R. brings in special cohost Colin to assist with a panel discussion about video games and the gear that makes gaming more immersive. J.R. talks to four Crutchfield employees about their console preferences, the A/V gear they use when they game, and the gear they wish they owned!  Some of the gear discussed includes: JBL gaming headsets (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89Q) Astro gaming headsets (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89T) JBL sound bars (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89U) Klipsch speakers (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89W) Sony XBR-85X950H 85" Smart LED 4K UHD TV with HDR (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89X) For more info about great gear for gaming, check out Colin's guide to the best gaming headsets for 2021 (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89Y), Logitech gaming accessories (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/89Z), and our best TVs for next-gen consoles (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/8A0).

J.R. introduces a Crutchfield exclusive — an interview with Sujan Hong, Head of US Music Content for Qobuz (www.qobuz.com/us-en/discover). Our headphone and high-res streaming expert Jeff caught up with Sujan to talk about all sorts of music-related topics, including music curation at Qobuz, Sujan's indie music credentials, and her favorite recent albums, available in high resolution. For video extras and photos, check out Jeff's full review of Qobuz (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87N). Some of the gear discussed includes: SVS Prime Wireless SoundBase (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87P) Audio-Technica turntables (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87Q) AudioQuest Dragonfly USB DAC  (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87R) Bowers and Wilkins headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87S) Audio-Technica headphones (https://www.crutchfield.com/r/87T)