Katz's Corner Episode 21: How Insensitive! Part 3
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.comMay I have a drumroll, please! Here is the expanded amplifier measurement chart, presenting the essential measurements in a way that consumers can actually use, without forcing them to become engineers. At first it appears to be a daunting looking chart, but consumers will be presented with only a few of these measurements.
Katz's Corner Episode 23: A Big Step Forward
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.comI was planning on presenting the next episode in my "How Insensitive" series, but that'll have to wait till next time because a wonderful new toy has just arrived straight from the technical geniuses in Hong Kong. Today we're going to introduce you to a powerful new and affordable investigative tool: The MiniDSP EARS Headphone Jig, costing $179 USD. MiniDSP has been manufacturing audio-related DSP products since 2009. Led by charismatic Frenchman Tony Rouget, MiniDSP has made some innovative and affordable audio amplifiers, digital equalizers, DACs, calibrated measurement microphones and measurement tools.
Katz's Corner Episode 24: Pass Labs HPA-1 Headphone Amplifier
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.comNelson Pass's Lab has produced an impeccable headphone amplifier with more than enough power, that's quiet, solid, and very clean. Several other reviewers have reflected on this excellent amplifier, but I want to weigh in with my unique sonic perspective and also measurements of its performance.
Katz's Corner Episode 25: Adventures in Distortion
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.comI believe that second harmonic distortion is sonic gold for audiophiles: It's very seductive, especially if you want a warm sound quality, three-dimensionality, and beautiful reproduction of ambience and depth. Based on the listening tests, there does not seem to be a sonic negative side if the proportions are done right. Yes, too much second harmonic and detail will be lost or the sound can become flubby, like some inferior tube preamp designs. That's why this listening test was so useful, as we can discover how much harmonic distortion is "just enough".
Katz's Corner Episode 8: My Current Affair
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.com
This episode is full of ideas on what makes audio sound better (or worse). If you're like me, constantly searching for scientific reasons, you'll enjoy this episode. Join me in trying to make audible sense of it all.
Katz's Corner Episode 9: Astell & Kearn AK T1p Headphones and AK380 Music Player
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.comI'm not a shy guy. If I don't like a headphone, I'll pull it off my ears within five minutes! So far, I've had the Astell & Kearn AK T1p on for over 40 minutes and I keep wanting to check them outso there must be something about them that's keeping me listening.
Katz's Corner, Episode 6: Things Are Looking Up
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.com
I am certain that sound quality improves when we sample at higher rates.
Katz's Corner: Episode One
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.com
Famed recordist and mastering engineer Bob Katz is a headphone enthusiast...who knew?
Bob recently offered to write a series of articles for InnerFidelity readers on his recent adventures with headphones. I just couldn't turn down an opportunity for a peak at our favorite head-worn audio device through his venerable ears.
Welcome, Bob!
Katz's Corner: The Great Headphone Shootout - Part 3
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.com
I've spent $4000 on the Stax 007 Mk2 and a custom-built KGSS amp, which can drive them as loudly and cleanly as you like. These are the most transparent reproducers I own, revealing details that are masked even on my fabulous loudspeaker system. That's what electrostatic transducers can do for you. I've always felt they have excellent and solid bass. So it was quite a shock to discover and admit that the cans which I have preferred for over forty years may have a victor: .......
Katz's Corner: The Great Headphone Shootout - Part 4
This story originally appeared at InnerFidelity.com
On Monday it was raining lions and tigers all day, but four of the faithful eventually arrived, between an hour and two late. Except Mitch Corbin, musician (Suzy Bogguss, David Bromberg, Byron Berline, David Grisman) and project studio owner, arrived early. That was a good thing, because I gave him a solo audition. When the four others arrived, they each had a headphone to check out and shuffle around. Mitch stuck around to learn everyone's reactions and schmooze for the evening, and a wonderful time was had by all.