Focal is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment.

Focal

Clear MG Professional


We're diving into the world of high-end audio with a look at Alta Audio's latest creation, the Aphrodite speakers. Here's a snapshot of what we'll cover:

-   The hefty price tag of $50,000 and what makes these speakers worth the investment.
-   A breakdown of the tech inside, like their unique driver setup and patented sound-enhancing technologies.
-   How these speakers double as a piece of art with their bold design and customizable colors.

Interesting? Continue reading ...

---

In the world of high-fidelity audio, Alta Audio has once again set the bar high with the introduction of their latest masterpiece, the Aphrodite speakers. Priced at a premium, these floor-standing speakers embody the pinnacle of audio engineering and aesthetic design, marking a significant milestone in the audiophile landscape.

### Unveiling the Aphrodite: A New Era for Audiophiles

The Aphrodite speakers, named after the Greek goddess of love and beauty, are a testament to Alta Audio's dedication to merging form with function. These speakers are not just audio equipment; they are a piece of art designed to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.

### The Engineering Marvel Behind the Sound

At the heart of the Aphrodite speakers lies a meticulously crafted four-way design, featuring an array of drivers including a titanium former 10” woofer, an 8 3/4” titanium former lower midrange, dual hex cone 6” upper midrange drivers, and an amorphous core transformer high-output ribbon tweeter. This combination ensures a broad frequency response from 26Hz to 47kHz +/- 3dB, sensitivity of 90 dB, and an impedance of 4 Ohms, making them suitable for a wide range of amplifiers and music genres​​​​.

### Advanced Technologies for Superior Sound

Alta Audio has incorporated several proprietary technologies into the Aphrodite speakers, including the patented XTL II bass transmission line and DampHard construction. These innovations work together to enhance power handling, reduce distortion, and extend bass frequencies while eliminating resonances to maximize dynamic range. The result is a sound that is not only powerful and deep but also exceptionally clear and detailed across the entire sound spectrum​​​​.

### Aesthetic Design Meets Acoustic Excellence

Beyond their acoustic capabilities, the Aphrodite speakers are a marvel of design. With a true Dipole/D’Appolito (Dipolito) driver layout and an open-back design, they offer not just an accurate soundstage but also a striking visual presence in any room. Available in Alta Audio’s super high-gloss black onyx finish, with the option for special order Pantone colors, these speakers can be personalized to fit any interior design aesthetic​​.

### The Ultimate Statement in High-End Audio

Priced at $50,000 per pair, the Aphrodite speakers are undeniably a significant investment. However, for those who seek the ultimate in audio fidelity and craftsmanship, they represent a worthwhile pursuit of acoustic perfection. As Alta Audio's founder, Michael Levy, states, the Aphrodite speakers are the culmination of a career dedicated to creating the most memorable listening environments. They are not just speakers; they are an experience, designed to bring music to life like never before​​​​.

In summary, the Alta Audio Aphrodite speakers stand as a beacon of excellence in the high-fidelity audio market. Combining advanced audio technology, unparalleled design, and meticulous craftsmanship, they offer a listening experience that is as visually stunning as it is sonically captivating. For the discerning audiophile, the Aphrodite speakers are not just a purchase but an investment in a lifetime of musical enjoyment.

65b4eb8b29509_1000.webp

Alta Audio's Aphrodite: A love song for your ears (and eyes)

Alta Audio is an audio brand that specializes in high-end speakers.

Alta Audio

XTL II technology in Aphrodite speakers delivers bass that's felt, not just heard


There's something new for audio enthusiasts to get excited about. Hidisz has just rolled out its latest offering, the ST2 Pro Digital IEMs, a noteworthy addition to the world of in-ear monitors. These aren't your average earbuds; they're a leap forward, especially for those who've embraced USB-C devices, like the upcoming iPhone 15.

#### High-Quality Sound in a Tiny Package

What's intriguing about the ST2 Pro is its heart – the ESS ES9281C PRO DAC. This little piece of technology is a game-changer. It's capable of handling a variety of high-resolution audio formats, something you'd typically expect from larger, more cumbersome audio devices. The promise here is clear: these earbuds are set to deliver a level of sound quality that could rival what you'd get from more traditional, high-end audio setups, but in a much smaller package.

#### Designed for Real Life

The design of the ST2 Pro seems to be a thoughtful balance between practicality and quality. With 10mm drivers, these earbuds aim to cover a wide range of sounds, from deep bass to high treble. They're also light and come with a flexible, durable cable, which suggests they're built for real-life use – whether that's commuting, casual listening, or even a bit of gaming.

#### A Nod to the Past

Acknowledging those who still hold onto their 3.5mm jack headphones, Hidisz has also introduced the SD2 mini-DAC. This little gadget connects to USB-C devices and offers an output for traditional headphone jacks, bridging the gap between the new and the old.

#### Market Implications and What's Next

The ST2 Pro enters the market at an interesting time. As more devices ditch the traditional headphone jack for USB-C, there's a growing space for innovative audio solutions. Hidisz seems to be tapping into this trend, although we're still in the dark about the price and when these will hit the shelves. But one thing is clear: they're stirring up some buzz among those who care about sound.

#### Final Thoughts

The Hidisz ST2 Pro Digital IEMs seem to be more than just another pair of earbuds. They represent a shift in how we think about portable audio – blending high-fidelity sound with the convenience of modern connectivity. It's an exciting time for audiophiles and everyday listeners alike. The future of portable audio isn't just about going wireless; it's about packing exceptional sound into every possible format, and the ST2 Pro seems to be leading the charge.

Screenshot 2024-01-09 at 15.54.11.png

 Hidisz Unveils ST2 Pro Earbuds: A Fresh Take on HiFi Sound for USB-C Devices

Hidizs is an audio brand that specializes in manufacturing high-quality audio products.

Hidizs

The ST2 Pro - Hidisz's latest innovation in high-resolution portable sound.


## Introduction to Acoustic Metrics

### Why Acoustic Metrics Matter

Sound is more than just what we hear; it's a wave that behaves in specific ways in different environments. To better understand and control how sound behaves in a space—be it a home theater, recording studio, or an open-office layout—we use acoustic metrics. These metrics provide us with a quantitative means of assessing and improving a room's acoustical properties.

### Brief Overview of NRC and STC

Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) and Sound Transmission Class (STC) are two of the most commonly used acoustic metrics. NRC tells us how well a material absorbs sound, thereby reducing echo and reverberation. STC, on the other hand, measures how effectively a material can block sound from traveling from one space to another. Both metrics are crucial for anyone interested in acoustics, from audiophiles to architects.

----------

## Exploring NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient)

### What is NRC?

NRC, or Noise Reduction Coefficient, is a number between 0 and 1 that represents the fraction of sound energy absorbed by a material. A score close to 1 indicates that the material is very effective at absorbing sound, while a score near 0 means it reflects most of the sound hitting it.

### How to Interpret NRC Ratings

NRC ratings are often found on products like acoustic panels, carpets, and ceiling tiles. A material with an NRC rating of 0.75, for example, would absorb 75% of sound energy and reflect the remaining 25%. In spaces where clear, detailed sound is essential—such as recording studios or home theaters—an NRC rating closer to 1 is generally desired.

### Practical Applications of NRC

Understanding NRC is essential when you are looking to control sound within a space. In recording studios, materials with high NRC ratings are used to reduce ambient noise and improve recording quality. In home theaters, NRC-rated panels can significantly enhance the viewer's experience by cutting down on distracting echoes and reverberations. Even in noisy industrial settings, NRC can play a role in creating a more acoustically pleasant environment.

----------

## The Importance of STC (Sound Transmission Class)

### What is STC?

Sound Transmission Class (STC) is a metric that measures a material's ability to block sound from traveling through it. Unlike NRC, which focuses on absorption within a single space, STC helps us understand how soundproof a material is between two distinct spaces.

### Factors Affecting STC Ratings

Several factors can affect a material's STC rating, including its density, thickness, and how it's installed. Generally, materials like concrete and brick have high STC ratings, making them excellent for soundproofing. However, even a high-STC material can underperform if it's installed poorly, such as with gaps or cracks that allow sound to seep through.

### STC in Real-world Scenarios

In residential buildings, understanding STC can help you create a quieter and more private living environment by choosing walls, floors, and doors with higher STC ratings. In commercial settings, like offices or hospitals, STC-rated partitions can greatly enhance privacy and reduce noise pollution.

----------

## NRC vs STC - Knowing When to Use Which

### Different Goals, Different Metrics

While both NRC and STC are instrumental in shaping a room's acoustic properties, they serve different purposes. NRC is used for improving sound quality within a room by minimizing echo and reverberation. STC is used for isolating rooms from each other, ensuring that sound doesn't leak from one space to another. Knowing which metric to focus on is crucial for effective acoustic treatment.

### Complementary but Not Interchangeable

It's important to note that a material with a high NRC rating won't necessarily have a high STC rating, and vice versa. For example, foam panels may have excellent sound absorption properties but may not be effective in soundproofing between rooms.

### Case Examples

-   **Home Theater**: You'd likely be concerned with both NRC (to improve sound quality within the room) and STC (to prevent sound leakage into other parts of the home).
-   **Recording Studio**: NRC would be critical here to capture clean recordings, but STC would also be important to ensure external noises don't contaminate the recording.

----------

## Measuring and Evaluating Acoustic Metrics

### Tools of the Trade

Sound level meters, room analysis software, and specialized microphones can be used to measure and analyze acoustic metrics. These tools can provide a quantitative evaluation that can guide you in choosing the right materials.

### DIY vs Professional Analysis

Simple mobile apps can give you a basic understanding of a room's acoustics, but for critical applications like studios or professional theaters, you may need to consult with acoustics professionals for a more detailed evaluation.

### Understanding the Numbers

-   **NRC**: Generally, an NRC rating of 0.6 or higher is considered good for most indoor environments.
-   **STC**: An STC rating of 50 or higher is considered excellent for blocking out most everyday noises.

----------

## Practical Applications and Recommendations

### Tailoring to Your Needs

Your specific needs will dictate whether you should prioritize NRC, STC, or both. Are you trying to improve the acoustics of an open office, or are you more concerned with soundproofing an in-home cinema?

### Material Selection

-   For high NRC: Look for specialized acoustic panels, fabrics, and foams.
-   For high STC: Consider denser materials like mass-loaded vinyl, drywall, or even specialized acoustic doors.

### When to Consult an Expert

If you're dealing with complex acoustic challenges or need specialized solutions, it might be wise to consult an acoustics professional for a more in-depth analysis and tailored solutions.

simple sound insulating panel with a neutral-colored fabric finish.png

Introducing Acoustic Metrics: NRC , STC

Explore the essential acoustic metrics NRC and STC, learn their differences and applications, and discover how to measure and optimize them for better sound quality and isolation.

Clear MG Professional

by Focal

Interesting articles

Alta Audio's Aphrodite: A love song for your ears (and eyes)

Hidisz Unveils ST2 Pro Earbuds: A Fresh Take on HiFi Sound for USB-C Devices

Introducing Acoustic Metrics: NRC , STC