The Absolute Sound Podcast
by Nextscreen, LLC
The Absolute Sound is the world’s preeminent source of expert reviews, features, and commentary on high-performance audio and music. Since 1973, TAS has set the standard for quality audio and music journalism, helping to shape the industry and guiding audio enthusiasts and music lovers to components and recordings that faithfully reproduce the sounds one might hear in a good concert hall.The Absolute Sound is a monthly print and digital magazine, an online destination for those interested in better sound, and a community of audiophiles and music lovers.For a Brief History of The Absolute Sound:https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/fifty-years-of-the-absolute-sound/Sign up for our weekly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/iPNIR2Subscribe to our monthly magazine: https://theabsolutesound.secure.darwin.cx/J200BNRA
Episodes
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The Mastering Lab Interview
In this video, Michael Johnson takes you on an exclusive tour of the mastering lab at Blue Heaven Studios, led by lead engineer Matt Lutthans. You'll get an inside look at the cutting-edge equipment used for mastering vinyl records, including a live demonstration of cutting a lacquer. This video…
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NuPrime IA-9XG Integrated Amplifier Review
In this video, Aaron Jenkins reviews the New Prime IA9XG integrated amplifier, showcasing its compact design and impressive performance at an entry-level price of $1,449. He delves into its advanced Gallium Nitride technology, which delivers 170 watts per channel and a low noise floor for...
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SVS Ultra Evolution Nano Bookshelf Speakers and 3000 Micro R | Evolution Subwoofer Review
In this video, John Quain takes an in-depth look at the SVS Ultra Evolution Nano bookshelf speakers. He discusses their innovative design features, impressive sound quality, and overall performance, then pairs them with the SVS 3000 Micro R | Evolution subwoofer for an elevated audio experience....
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Innuos STREAM3 Streamer Review
In this video, Matt Coykendall dives into the Innuos STREAM3 streamer, comparing two units with different optional on-board DACs—one of which costs $3,150 more than the other. He discusses the Digital Output Module Bay's significance, the meticulous design and assembly of Innuos products in...
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$5,000 System Recommendation
In this video, we dive into the art of building a high-quality two-channel audio system on a $5,000 budget. We focus on the crucial role of a strong digital front end, in this case the HiFi Rose RS451 Streaming DAC, and explore reviewer Jason Methfessel's philosophy on audio system building…
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CH Precision M10 Amplifier Review
In this video, we review the CH Precision M10 stereo amplifier, a standout in high-end Swiss audio electronics. With its innovative two-chassis design and 550 watts per channel, the M10 excels in imaging and sound staging, bringing recordings to life. We test it with various speakers and sources,...
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PS Audio PMG Signature 512 Streaming DAC Review
In this video, Adrian Alexander reviews the PS Audio PMG Signature 512 DAC, a high-end digital-to-analog converter priced at $8,999. He highlights its unique Pure Stream engine, which converts all inputs to high-rate DSD, setting it apart from other DACs. The review covers the design, technical...
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Von Schweikert Ultra.7 Loudspeaker & Aris Subwoofer | Robert Harley Previews
In this video, Robert Harley, editor-in-chief of The Absolute Sound magazine, sits down with Damon von Schweickert, CEO of Von Schweickert Audio, to delve into the Ultra.7 loudspeaker. They discuss its innovative features, including the integration of Aris 12 subwoofers and the unique Foundation...
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Trinnov Altitude CI Processor & Perlisten R210s Subwoofer Review
In this video, Tom Martin reviews the Trinnov Altitude CI, a high-end processor that leverages advanced DSP technology and a unique waveforming system with six Perlisten R210s subwoofers. He delves into the significance for stereo reproduction and how the Trinnov system elevates the authenticity…
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Master Fidelity NADAC-D Digital-to-analog Converter Review
In this video, Tom Martin dives into the Master Fidelity NADAC-D digital-to-analog converter, a high-end piece priced at $27,500. Tom reviews its innovative one-bit ASIC technology, comparing it to traditional delta-sigma DACs while exploring its impressive sound quality. Join him as he discusses...
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Stack Audio Isolation Devices Reviewed
In this video, Adrian Alexander reviews Stack Audio's isolation products, highlighting their ability to enhance sound quality by minimizing vibrations and electrical noise. He draws an interesting parallel between his experience with a new pickleball paddle and the 'sweet spot' concept in audio...
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VIABLUE Reference Series Cable Review
In this video, Robert Taylor explores the crucial role of audio cables in optimizing stereo system performance. He discusses how, while lower-end equipment may not see drastic improvements, quality cables can significantly enhance existing setups. Robert reviews VIABLUE's reference series…
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Audiolab 6000A Mk II Integrated Amplifier Review
In this video, Aaron Jenkins reviews the $1,199 Audiolab 6000A Mk II integrated amplifier, exploring its features and performance in the high-end audio market. Aaron discusses its improved power supply, upgraded ESS Saber DAC, and enhanced connectivity options like HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.1 aptX...
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Avantgarde Acoustic OPUS 1 Active Loudspeaker Review
In this video, Tom Martin reviews the Avantgarde OPUS 1 active loudspeakers, focusing on their innovative design and outstanding sound quality. Tom explores how the OPUS 1s, featuring a horn driver, challenge traditional audiophile norms by enhancing sound staging and minimizing distortion. Join...
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Cambridge Audio L/R S Active Desktop Speaker Review
In this video, John Quain reviews the Cambridge Audio L/R S active desktop speakers, which are priced competitively at $549 for a pair. John dives into their impressive sound quality, featuring a two-component system with an aluminum dome tweeter and a three-inch woofer powered by Class D...
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Innuos Nazaré Music Streamer & Server Stack Review
In this video, Tom Martin reviews the Innuos Nazaré Server & Streamer System, a stack of premium audio components that elevates your music playback experience. Tom delves into the intricacies of server streamers, their essential role in contemporary stereo setups, and how they stand apart from...
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Eversolo T10 Streaming Transport Review
In this video, Matt Coykendall reviews the Eversolo T10 streaming transport, showcasing its enhancements over the T8 model. Matt dives into its larger, brighter screen, upgraded internal components, and improved clocking hardware. Join him as he explores the T10's design, connectivity options…
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Octave V 70 SE Integrated Tube Amp Review
In this video, Muse Kastanovich reviews the Octave V 70 SE tube integrated amplifier, exploring its features, specifications, and performance. Priced at $8,250, Muse compares it to the Audio Research I70, discussing its design, tube configuration, and sound quality. He also highlights the Super...
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NAD M23 V2 Stereo Power Amplifier Review
In this video, Tom Martin reviews the NAD M23 V2 Power Amplifier, a key component in his $15,000 audio system build. Tom dives into its Class D design, impressive power output, and how it pairs with the Eminent Technologies LFT-8c speakers and Wattson Madison streaming DAC. Join him as he…
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Saros Audio Europa Headphone Amp & Preamp Review
In this video, Matt Coykendall dives into the Saros Audio Europa tube amplifier. With its fully differential design, this amp promises to elevate your listening experience by minimizing noise and maximizing dynamic range. Priced at $8,995, the Europa serves as both a headphone amp and a preamp,...
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Ø Audio ICON 12 High Efficiency Horn Speakers Reviews
Norway’s Ø Audio cast off into the hi-fi world a decade ago with the Icon two-way horn speaker. Since then, they’ve debuted a number of different models, but the two-way Icon remained at the heart of their brand. Well, that is until the company launched the redesigned Icon 12 last year, alongside…
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Recordings of the Month: July Discoveries
We’re changing up Recordings of the Month a bit. From time to time we’ll have some of our music-loving audio reviewers highlight one or a few recordings they’ve recently discovered. They’ll explain what the discovery is. But part of the idea is that, in the age of streaming, the problem is…
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J. Sikora Aspire Turntable Review
In this video, Robert Taylor reviews the J. Sikora Aspire turntable, an "entry-level" model from a Polish company renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Priced at $11,000, this turntable boasts a sturdy aluminum-and-cast-iron body, a custom DC motor, and adjustable feet for precise...
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YG Sonja 3.2 Speaker Review
YG Acoustics is a long-established manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers. They are based in Denver, Colorado, but have their research hub in Cambridge, England. Dr. Matthew Webster, their CEO and head of research, has a PhD in Astrophysics and specializes in computational modeling of mechanical…
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PSB iQ2 Streaming Powered Speaker Review
In this video, John Quain reviews the PSB iQ2 streaming-powered speakers, showcasing their remarkable sound quality and innovative design. With the ability to deliver deep bass through DSP, wireless connectivity, and built-in amplification, these speakers are engineered for an exceptional audio...
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New Unison Research Amp & Preamp Review
Unison research had made a bit of a name for themselves in recent years, launching attainable and high value tube hybrid integrated amplifiers under the Unico moniker, all manufactured at their factory in Treviso, Italy. Earlier this year, Unison Research launched all new flagship products in…
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Coastal Source EB2650 Speaker System Review
When a non-audiophile tells a member of the tribe that they "really ought to get out more," they usually don't mean the subject for this video: Coastal Source EB2650 Speaker System. A loudspeaker designed for use out-of-doors. This video is sponsored by: https://gttaudio.com/ 00:00 Coastal Source...
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Opera Quinta V2 Loudspeaker Review
In this video, we review the Opera Quinta V2 speakers, showcasing their impressive evolution from the original Quinta. With a redesigned cabinet to minimize standing waves, increased sensitivity for easier amplifier driving, and premium materials like rosewood and leather-like finishes, these...
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The Best Orchestra Recording Ever
In this video, Andrew Quint explores the immersive audio album 'The Orchestra Surrounds You,' which replicates the sonic experience of conducting a symphony orchestra. Join him as he highlights the album's realistic sound quality, achieved through advanced recording techniques and the Tokyo...
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LAiV Crescendo CHORUS Power Amplifier Review
In this video, Adrian Alexander reviews the LAiV Crescendo CHORUS power amps, exploring their affordability, build quality, and versatility in both stereo and monoblock configurations. These amplifiers offer impressive sound quality with a focus on tonal balance and soundstage depth, making them…
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Klipsch The Sevens II Active Wireless Speaker Review
Join John Quain from The Absolute Sound as he takes an in-depth look at the Klipsch The Sevens II powered wireless speakers. Priced at $1,999.99 a pair, these active bookshelf monitors bridge the gap between high-res streaming convenience and classic, hard-hitting American audio performance....
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Matrix Audio MS-1 Streamer + DAC Review
Most streamers at this price are chasing the same thing flat, neutral, maybe invisible. Those are just some of the common terms you hear people say when they're describing music streamers. Matrix built this one to do something else. Refined detail and a warm musical character both at once. And...
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$15K System - Mofi Sourcepoint 888, Rega Planar, Luxman 505Z Review
For better or for worse, vinyl got me into the hobby of hi-fi and in many respects it’s still what drives my interest in equipment and fidelity. My system has evolved steadily over the years, and not always been a straight or simple path. That said, friends and fans have asked me for advice on...
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Soulution 717 Power Amp Review
Soulution Audio is a Swiss manufacturer of electronics and turntables. Swiss amplifier companies seem to pursue extreme engineering and this is often accompanied by extreme pricing. Let’s see what the 717 offers and why you might or might not want it. This video is sponsored by:...
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Focal Mu-so Hekla All-in-one Dolby Atmos System Review
In this video, Aaron Jenkins reviews the Focal Mu-so Hekla, an all-in-one sound system that promises an immersive audio experience. At $3,600, it boasts 15 speakers, 660 watts of amplification, and support for high-res audio formats. With advanced connectivity options and five listening modes,...
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Aurender ACS100 Music Server Streamer CD Ripper Review
Instead of forcing you to piece together a complex computer-based setup or manage a noisy network-attached storage drive, Aurender positions this unit as a quiet, central anchor for your digital ecosystem. But at four thousand dollars, does it offer the practical everyday convenience and fidelity...
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HiFi Rose RS451 Streamer Review
What would you buy if you wanted one box that does everything and actually looks really dang good doing it is a common question these days, right? The HiFi Rose RS451 is $3,295, and it's trying to solve that problem, not by cutting corners, by building a streamer, a DAC, and a headphone amp into...
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ATC EL50 Anniversary speaker system review: State of the Art Series
As you may know, there are technical reasons that active speakers can be advantaged, and as a result, I’ve covered a few of these speakers in the last year or so. ATC is also noteworthy as a major pro audio speaker-maker. I have had good experiences with some pro speakers, and active setups are...
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Technics EAH-AZ100 True Wireless Earbud Review
Can true wireless earbuds satisfy the critical ear of a high-end audio enthusiast? In this video, John Quain, a reviewer for The Absolute Sound, puts the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds to the test to see if they live up to their "Reference Class" branding. Priced at $299.99 USD, the EAH-AZ100s...
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Advance Paris A10 Apex Review
The Advance Paris A10 APEX integrated amplifier represents an intriguing proposition in the contemporary Hi-Fi landscape. Retailing at $3,499 US, it positions itself as a feature-rich, high-value hub designed to capture the emotional core of analog playback while anchoring a modern digital…
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Goldmund & Marten System Preview
Alan Taffel provides a sneak peek of what's to come from his full review of the 1400 Wpc Goldmund Telos 8800 Monoblock Amplifiers. You'll have to check out the complete review in an upcoming issue of The Absolute Sound magazine. What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a...
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Silent Angel Extreme Trio Stack Review
We've all heard of the word trifecta. So I was curious. What's the definition? There's a couple of them. One of them is any situation where three notable achievable are or outcomes occur together, especially if they're all positive. In short, it's a "triple win or powerful group of three". Does…
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New 2026 Magico S7 speaker review: State of the Art Series
We got an early review sample of the new S7 (2026). Both interested and well-heeled audiophiles sometimes ask the question “what do I get when I spend $100k on product X, rather than, say $10k?”. Many people who ask this sort of question aren’t actually shopping in these elevated price ranges…
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DALI KUPID Bookshelf Speaker Review
In this video, John Quain takes a closer look at the DALI KUPID entry-level bookshelf speakers. Priced at $600 for a pair, these compact speakers feature a two-way design with a rear port. We’ll explore their design, specifications, and sound quality, highlighting their balanced and natural…
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Opera Prima V2 Bookshelf Speakers Review
When introducing its second generation classic, a line of speakers, opera described them as embodying the classicism of both music and Italian craftsmanship. That's an intriguing description, but how does it apply to the Prima V2 bookshelf speaker? And is that speaker worth $3,600 a pair? This...
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Pass Labs INT-250 Integrated Amplifier Review
Most amplifiers compete on features DACs, streaming room correction, app control. You guys know the 2026 menu that we just see so often lately. The Pass labs in 250 does the opposite here. No DAC, no streaming, no phono stage, no app. Just an amplifier and a preamp in one chassis. So the real...
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Vimberg AMEA Bookshelf Loudspeaker Review
In this video, Robert Taylor reviews the Vimberg AMEA speaker, an affordable yet high-quality option from a company owned by Tidal Audio. He delves into its specifications, sound profile, and unique design, showcasing why this speaker is a great addition to any audio setup. 00:00 Vimberg AMEA...
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Simco Audio Simco ONE Loudspeaker Review
In this video, Michael Johnson reviews the Simco One, a two-way horn loudspeaker from Simco Audio. This speaker combines a unique design with high efficiency at a sensitivity of 95 dB. Michael explores the speaker's performance with various amplifiers and touches on its aesthetic appeal. 00:00...
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ES Labs ES-2α Headphone Review
In this video, Matt reviews the ES Lab ES-2α electrostatic headphones, which promise a sound experience that feels both realistic and immersive. These headphones are celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship, comfort, and impressive sound quality, especially in the bass and mid-range. With a...
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Eminent Technology LFT-8c: Building a Great $15k System
Eminent Technology has built planar magnetic speakers for several decades. Their designer, Bruce Thigpen, is an original thinker and this is reflected in the design of the speakers. Having heard prior versions I guessed that the latest version LFT-8c might be interesting. And, as it happens, the...
About this show
The Absolute Sound is the world’s preeminent source of expert reviews, features, and commentary on high-performance audio and music. Since 1973, TAS has set the standard for quality audio and music journalism, helping to shape the industry and guiding audio enthusiasts and music lovers to components and recordings that faithfully reproduce the sounds one might hear in a good concert hall.The Absolute Sound is a monthly print and digital magazine, an online destination for those interested in better sound, and a community of audiophiles and music lovers.For a Brief History of The Absolute Sound:https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/fifty-years-of-the-absolute-sound/Sign up for our weekly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/iPNIR2Subscribe to our monthly magazine: https://theabsolutesound.secure.darwin.cx/J200BNRA
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