Akai is a Japanese consumer electronics brand known for producing audio and video equipment. They specialize in manufacturing home audio systems, headphones, speakers, and professional audio equipment.

Akai

The Akai 4000-DS MK II is a reel-to-reel tape deck manufactured by Akai in the 1970s. It is a 3-head, 2-motor unit that operates at speeds of 3.75 and 7.5 inches per second. The tape deck features auto-reverse playback and recording capabilities. It has a frequency response of 30 Hz to 24 kHz and offers a signal-to-noise ratio of 58 dB. The Akai 4000-DS MK II also includes features such as a tape counter, tape type selection, and Dolby noise reduction.

4000-DS MK II


Totaldac has announced the launch of its latest innovation - the D1-Driver-sublime. This new product is an advanced amplifier driver, specifically designed for audio systems that primarily utilize a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) as their source.

#### Key Features of the D1-Driver-Sublime:

-   **Analog Driver Functionality**: Primarily serving as a connection between a DAC and an amplifier, the D1-Driver-sublime is an analog driver that addresses the ongoing debate about the benefits of using a preamp in modern audio systems.
    
-   **No Volume Control Design**: Unique to the D1-Driver-sublime is its lack of a volume control feature, a deliberate choice to rely on the DAC's volume control. This design is intended to deliver the best sound quality with minimal noise and user-friendly volume control from the DAC's remote.
    
-   **Advanced System Gain Control**: The device includes an analog attenuation feature of -15.5dB, useful when the overall system gain is too high. This feature is activated via a switch on the rear panel, utilizing precision resistors for accurate control.
    

#### Technical Specifications:

-   **Versions Available**: The D1-Driver-sublime comes in a one-box stereo version with RCA inputs and outputs, and a two-box monobloc version with additional XLR inputs and outputs.
    
-   **Class A Design**: The device boasts a high bias current Class A design, ensuring natural low output impedance and low distortion.
    
-   **Low Noise Level**: Thanks to its discrete design and external power supply, the D1-Driver-sublime achieves an extremely low noise level.
    

#### Customization Options:

-   **Damping Feet**: Optional custom damping feet are available for improved sound quality.
    
-   **Output Choices**: Users can opt for additional outputs for various components like subwoofers or headphone amplifiers.
    

#### Pricing and Availability:

The Totaldac D1-Driver-sublime is now available for purchase. For more details on pricing and availability, interested customers are encouraged to visit Totaldac's official website or authorized dealers.

This release marks a significant development in Totaldac's product line, offering audiophiles and music enthusiasts a new level of audio experience with enhanced sound quality, dynamic range, and minimal distortion.

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Totaldac Revolutionizes Audio with D1-Driver-Sublime: The No Volume Control Design That's Changing the Game

Embrace the future of sound with Totaldac's D1-Driver-Sublime, a high bias current Class A amplifier for unmatched audio quality.


The Moondrop Aria 2 In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) have been making waves in the audiophile community, not just for their technical specifications, but also for the experiences they deliver. With a sensitivity of 122dB/Vrms, an impedance of 33Ω, and a frequency response range of 16Hz - 22kHz, these IEMs promise high-quality sound. But what do users actually think about them?

#### Build Quality and Design: A Robust and Elegant Offering

The Aria 2 stands out for its impressive build quality. The zinc alloy cavity and brass nozzle provide a sturdy and premium feel. Users have noted the balance between durability and aesthetics, finding the design both robust and elegant.

#### Audio Performance: Engaging and Balanced

When it comes to sound, the Aria 2 has received praise for its balanced yet engaging audio performance. The mid-bass boost is a highlight, enhancing vocal clarity, making it a favorite among gamers for its crisp mid-highs. The overall tuning has been described as more technical and resolving, especially in the high frequencies, indicating a significant improvement over its predecessor.

#### User Experience: Comfort and Convenience

Comfort is a key factor in any IEM, and the Aria 2 does not disappoint. Its ergonomic design ensures a snug fit, suitable for long listening sessions. The accessory package, including a high-quality stock cable and a convenient storage case, adds value to the overall user experience.

#### Comparisons and Recommendations

Comparisons with other models, like the Moondrop Stellaris, suggest that while the Aria 2 is a competent IEM, it may not represent a groundbreaking upgrade for users of previous models. However, it comes highly recommended for those new to the Moondrop family, particularly for first-time IEM users, due to its overall value and quality.

#### Points of Contention: Build Quality and Price

Despite the positives, there are some concerns. Some users remain cautious about the long-term build quality, recalling issues like paint peeling from the original Aria. Additionally, there's a debate about whether the price point is fitting for newcomers to the audiophile hobby.

#### A Solid Choice with Room for Improvement

In summary, the Moondrop Aria 2 stands as a solid choice in the realm of IEMs. Its combination of build quality, sound performance, and comfort make it a compelling option, particularly for those new to high-quality audio devices. While there are areas for potential improvement, the Aria 2 largely succeeds in delivering a high-quality audio experience at a reasonable price point.

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The Moondrop Aria 2: Where Quality Meets Affordability

Get an inside look at the Moondrop Aria 2's unique sound features and design, crafted for an unmatched audio experience.

In the world of high-fidelity audio, the quest for smaller yet powerful devices continues to fascinate audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike. Periodic Audio has stepped into this arena with the launch of its Silicon Micro DAC/AMP, a device that's stirring conversations and raising eyebrows with its diminutive size and impressive capabilities.

Dubbed as the ultimate portable DAC, the Silicon Micro DAC/AMP measures merely 27.7mm in length, 10.1mm in thickness, and 12.4mm in width, making it smaller than many 3.5mm headphone plugs. Despite its size, this device doesn't skimp on power. It offers a robust 150+ mW RMS/channel stereo amp and supports PCM formats up to 32 bit/768 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. This means it can handle nearly any high-resolution music format currently available, promising an uncompromised listening experience.

Users are taking notice of its ability to drive nearly any headphone, from in-ears to over-ears, with some highlighting the 150mW per channel into 32 ohms as a particularly impressive feat for such a compact device. There's a buzz about the power and clarity it delivers, especially considering its size.

However, it's not just the power that's drawing attention. Enthusiasts appreciate the Silicon Micro DAC/AMP's simplicity and ease of use — plug in and play without the hassle of switches, knobs, and LEDs. Its design, featuring a black anodized aluminum extrusion and caps molded from Eastman Tritan™, speaks to its durability and the brand's commitment to quality.

While many are excited about this leap in portable audio technology, some discussions turn technical, diving into the DAC's performance characteristics. For instance, there's talk about its amp stage and how it compares to other options in the market. Some users have pointed out specific behaviors under certain conditions, sparking a deeper analysis among the audiophile community.

In essence, the Periodic Audio Silicon Micro DAC/AMP is more than just a piece of tech; it's a conversation starter, a statement in the continuous evolution of portable audio. It represents a blend of miniaturization and power, appealing to those who want no compromise in their audio experience, regardless of where they are. As this device continues to make waves, it's clear that the balance of size and performance will remain a pivotal point in the audio world.

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Tiny Titan: The Periodic Audio Silicon Micro DAC/AMP Packs Performance in a Petite Package

Periodic Audio is an audio brand that specializes in creating high-performance in-ear monitors (IEMs) and headphones. They are known for their dedication to precision engineering and creating high-quality audio products.

Periodic Audio

Experience portable power with Periodic Audio's compact, high-performance DAC/AMP

4000-DS MK II

by Akai

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Interesting articles

Totaldac Revolutionizes Audio with D1-Driver-Sublime: The No Volume Control Design That's Changing the Game

The Moondrop Aria 2: Where Quality Meets Affordability

Tiny Titan: The Periodic Audio Silicon Micro DAC/AMP Packs Performance in a Petite Package