DIGITAL
Which is better? This question has been put to the test using various players and dacs
What are these differences and why do they sound different?
Although they are called digital amps by most people, in fact, most "digital" amps aren't digital at all. Confused yet?
Going through an upsampler is an easy way to reduce jitter. But does it really help?
Adjust the error correction and change the sound anywhere from precise to smooth
Will the computer ever sound as good as a top of the line CD player?
This is described by means of the DCS Delius and Purcell Dac and upsampler
Is there still life left in the DSD format? And how does it compare to CD?
Please the Computer Audio section for more computer-related knowledge
CABLES
A cable's jacket has a huge infuence on its perceived sound. What's more: adding another layer around an already insulated cable still has a large effect!
Barb wire, hearing your wallet, all interlinks sound the same and a straight wire with gain.
Some musements on these subjects.
Here's a handy table and some info, for our European visitors
This is an ever-continuing discussion. In this article I try to shed light on the matter.
The principle behind bi-wiring explained. Pros versus cons.
If speakers offer more than one connection option, how do you choose where to connect the speaker cable?
Not only bad for the sound but also potentially dangerous when making power cables
A report explaining the challenges of modifying this powercable
Some insight into terminating this 6-wire cable
Should you accentuate a component's strong sides or compensate for its flaws?
Why you should try to avoid using crimp sleeves
Best use a short lead? Or rather a minimum of 1,5 meters? Opinions divert.
Audioadvies just tried it out in some practical tests. Also there's a technical explanation.
Do digital cables really make a diference? And is AES EBU better by definition?
Power cables can have a profound influence on the perceived sound of your system. But did you know that the phase and position in the extensionblock also matters?
Intuition tells us (and lots of magazines do, too) that shorter is better. I feel that it is a relative matter.
CONNECTORS
Attaching IeGO's in place of the standard Yarbo's transformed the sound
A simple tip for easier attachement to a thick cable
This is an ever-continuing discussion. In this article I try to shed light on the matter.
A report explaining the challenges of modifying this powercable
Some insight into terminating this 6-wire cable
A report explaining the challenges of modifying this powercable
The IEC connector is oft used and well known. But what are the varieties and what is its official name?
There's also a graphical indication of the correct phase connection
Worldwide applications of powerconnectors and more info about the Schuko connector
EXTENSIONBLOCKS/FILTERS/LINE CONDITIONERS
Info: what are the differences?
Much more important than given credit for
Is starwired really so much better?
Use them or best to avoid them? This is taste and situation dependent.
The best solution?
VIDEO
Information about HDMI and DVI standards and info regarding compatibility
Are highend HDMI cables better than standard no-name brands? Read the article for an explanation.
GENERIC
Simply placing your components on an Ikea table is probably not the road to audio-nirvana
Background info and working principles
Or: why wasn't this the case in the old KEF/IMF days?
Some simple tweaks make a Philips CD614 sound much better than it has a right to
These diminutive boxes turen out to have a huge effect on the sound of the speakers
Analog recordings were made on 2 Nakamichi cassettedecks, and digital 24/96 ones on PC via EMU card and Mac via Apogee Duet
A very real phenomenon
The material on which you place a component brings its own sound characteristics to the mix
A diverse and interesting article that sheds some light on the complex matter of room acoustics.
A new situation might require different interlinks, power cables or even a different placement of components.
Tips for optimising the position of your speakers
Open, airy, rolled-off, dark etc, there is a lot to say about the high frequencies
After the initial running in period this can become a real factor as well
STREAMING AUDIO / COMPUTER AUDIO
Separate section covering all computeraudio and streaming audio related matters
PREFACE
Descriptions of the terms I use in reviews to describe how a components sounds, as well as explanations of more generically used terms in audio reviews.
The upgradevirus can easily take over control: where to draw the line?
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In writing these articles it has been my goal to be as objective and open-minded as possible. Nevertheless Personal opinion is still a factor. For that reason it is recommended to also read my background.
All new articles will be in English and existing articles are in the process of being translated.
Christiaan Punter
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Find out all about classic and current Jeff Rowland equipment
Streaming, USB, Firewire,
Computer Audio
Current and Classic CD players, Cables, Accessories and more
Galleries, timelines & interiors of fascinating classic equipment
Info, Tips, Tricks and Insights
How to optimise your system
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