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The F302i, an upgraded version of the award-winning F302, enhances your audio experience with a new titanium tweeter and improved crossover that promise clearer and more detailed treble. Its extended high frequency range intensifies the dynamism of your music listening sessions, ensuring that the speaker performs brilliantly, even at low volume levels. With a robust power handling capacity, the F302i stands firm against distortion, even when the volume is turned up. Reflecting a feature from the premium F500 Series, it incorporates a clever magnetic grille storage at the rear, proving both functional and aesthetically pleasing by offering a neat solution for storing grilles during playback. For those passionate about high-quality audio, whether for Hi-Fi or home theatre systems, the F302i presents itself as an outstanding choice.

F302i


**Oslo, Norway**: In a significant move that's set to redefine the high-fidelity audio landscape, Hegel Music Systems has announced the launch of its latest creation - the Hegel H600 integrated amplifier. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Hegel is marking the occasion with what can only be described as an audio masterpiece.

#### Powerhouse Performance

The H600, dubbed as the company's reference integrated amplifier, is a tour de force in the world of high-end audio. Packing a formidable 303 watts per channel into 8 ohms and a remarkable damping factor of 4000, it's designed to drive any speaker with unparalleled confidence and ease. The dual mono design of the H600 mirrors the performance of two mono amps in a single box, a feat of engineering that delivers an unmatched soundstage with a broad dynamic range and deep, controlled bass.

#### Cutting-Edge Technology

A highlight of the H600 is its bit-perfect digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This state-of-the-art component ensures pure audio fidelity, free from any resampling or upsampling. With a large, dedicated power supply and robust shielding against interference, the DAC provides exceptional resolution and smoothness. The amplifier's chassis, crafted from aluminum, adds to its audio performance, offering enhanced stability and reduced vibrations.

#### Streamlined Streaming and Connectivity

Embracing the era of digital music, the H600 comes equipped with an array of streaming options, including UPnP, Airplay 2, Tidal Connect, and Roon Ready compatibility. This broad suite of features ensures that the amplifier is not just a powerhouse of performance but also a hub of convenience and accessibility. Additionally, the amplifier boasts a wide range of analog and digital connections, including True Balanced XLR inputs, USB 32/384 input, and optical inputs, making it a versatile centerpiece for any audio setup.

#### Award-Winning Design

The Hegel H600 isn't just about remarkable technical capabilities; it's also a winner in aesthetics and ease of use. Recently, it received the prestigious EISA award for Best High-End Streaming Amplifier, a testament to its outstanding quality and innovation. The EISA committee lauded the H600 for its upgraded digital stage, bespoke error-cancelling technology, and redesigned preamp stage, all contributing to its organic, compelling performance.

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Discover the Hidden Power of Hegel H600's Dual Mono Design

Hegel's latest innovation, the H600 integrated amplifier, offers a groundbreaking audio experience with exceptional power and clarity.


The term "remastered" often captures the attention and imagination of audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The promise of a cleaner, richer, and more detailed sound experience is compelling. However, remastering is a complex process that can either enhance or deteriorate the quality of an audio track. It's essential to understand what remastering entails and how to sift through the good, the bad, and the ugly of remastered versions.

### The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Remasters

#### The Process of Remastering

Remastering involves taking original audio tapes and transferring them to a digital format. The process can correct errors, improve sound quality, and sometimes even add new elements. However, these improvements are not guaranteed; the end result is contingent on the skill and intent of the engineers.

#### The Loudness War

One of the most contentious issues surrounding remasters is the so-called "loudness war." This refers to the tendency of producers to compress the dynamic range of a track to make it as loud as possible, sacrificing audio quality for volume. This can be especially jarring for audiophiles who have high-end equipment capable of capturing a wide dynamic range.

#### The "Sacriligious" Alterations

Beyond the loudness war, some remasters take the liberty of altering the original tracks in ways that many consider disrespectful to the original work. The use of auto-tune on classic vocal performances or changing the instrumentation are examples of these kinds of alterations.

### Vintage Pressings and Audiophile Labels

#### The Allure of Original Pressings

For those cautious of the possible pitfalls in remastered versions, vintage pressings—especially from periods like the early '80s—are highly prized. These pressings were often made with a greater dynamic range and are generally considered to offer a more authentic listening experience.

#### Specialty Audiophile Labels

Companies like MoFi (Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab) specialize in high-quality remastering that respects the original audio. They often use the original master tapes and employ meticulous care in the remastering process, making them a preferred choice for audiophiles.

### The Role of Equipment

The equipment used for playback can significantly affect how a remastered track sounds. Higher-end equipment can make a poor remaster sound decent, or a good remaster sound extraordinary. For example, using a quality DAC and network streamer like the Eversolo DMP-A6 can dramatically improve your listening experience.

### Conclusion

In the intricate world of audio remastering, not all remasters are created equal. For audiophiles and discerning listeners, the key is to sift through the multitude of options to find those that respect and enhance the essence of the original recording. Whether you find solace in vintage pressings or place your trust in reputable audiophile labels, understanding the nuances of remastering can help you make informed choices that elevate your auditory experience.

Photo montage showcasing a vintage vinyl record on the left and a digital audio workstation on the right.

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The Complex World of Audio Remastering

Delve into the intricacies of audio remastering. Learn what makes a remaster truly great, how to navigate the pitfalls of poor remasters, and discover the role of equipment in shaping your auditory experience.


From the moment you hold a vinyl record, you're not just holding a medium of music; you're cradling decades of auditory history. Vinyl has been the cornerstone of music collections since the 20th century, with its warm sound and tangible presence. Despite the rise of digital, the vinyl record has made a remarkable comeback, finding its way into the hearts of a new generation while rekindling the flame for veteran collectors. This comprehensive guide offers more than cleaning tips—it's a passage through time, ensuring the legacy of vinyl continues spinning for years to come.

## Basic Cleaning: The Daily Tune-Up

_What You'll Need: Carbon Fiber Brush, Microfiber Cloth_

_Carbon Fiber Brush_:

1.  Hold the brush gently against the surface of the spinning record.
2.  Allow the bristles to sweep across the grooves, picking up dust.
3.  Repeat before and after each listening session to maintain clarity.

_Microfiber Cloth_:

1.  Lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water.
2.  Wipe the record in a circular motion, following the grooves.
3.  Follow up with an anti-static brush to negate static charges that attract dust.

## Intermediate Cleaning: Groove Restoration

_What You'll Need: Record Cleaning Solution, Clean Cloth, Anti-Static Brush_

_Record Cleaning Solution_:

1.  Drip a few drops of the solution onto the cleaning cloth.
2.  In a circular motion, gently wipe the record, tracing the grooves.
3.  Allow the solution to work its magic for a minute, loosening the grime.
4.  With a clean side of the cloth, wipe the record dry.
5.  Use an anti-static brush to finish and protect against future dust accumulation.

_Maintenance Importance_: Each cleaning step is crucial; it removes the microscopic particles that, if left unchecked, can cause a chain reaction, resulting in permanent damage to both the vinyl's grooves and the stylus tracking them.

## Advanced Cleaning: The Deep Dive

_What You'll Need: Isopropyl Alcohol, Cotton Swabs, Ultrasonic Cleaner, DIY Solution Ingredients_

_Isopropyl Alcohol Spot Treatment_:

1.  Apply a small amount of alcohol to a cotton swab.
2.  Gently target the stain or residue along the groove.
3.  Immediately rinse with distilled water to avoid any alcohol damage.

_Ultrasonic Cleaning_: An ultrasonic cleaner (a device that uses ultrasonic sound waves to clean) is perfect for a deep clean without physical contact, preserving the integrity of the grooves.

For a DIY ultrasonic cleaning solution, you can mix:

750 ml of distilled water
400 ml of 90% isopropyl alcohol
30 ml of TritonX-100

_DIY Ultrasonic Solution_: Mix the distilled water, isopropyl alcohol, and a surfactant like TritonX-100 to create an effective cleaning bath that's gentle on records.

## Tips

**Troubleshooting Tips**: Static and stubborn stains can be persistent foes in vinyl maintenance. For static, ensure your cleaning area is humidified. For stains, never use abrasive methods; always stick to gentle, approved cleaning solutions.

**Long-Term Care and Preservation**: Vinyl isn't just for today—it's an heirloom. Store your records upright in a cool, dry place and in anti-static sleeves. Clean your records regularly, based on how often they're played, to prevent the buildup of contaminants that can lead to noise or damage.

**Understanding Record Grades**: The condition of a vinyl record is often described using a grading system. Cleanliness can directly affect a record's grade, which in turn influences its value. Regular maintenance ensures your records remain at a high grade and retain their value, both sentimentally and monetarily.

Depicting a cotton swab and a clear bottle labeled 'Isopropyl Alcohol' placed on a table. In the soft-focused background, a vinyl record rests

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Cleaning Your Vinyl Records

Discover various methods for effectively cleaning your vinyl records, from everyday dust removal to tackling persistent grime and stubborn stains. Learn how to use carbon fiber brushes, specialized cleaning solutions, and even ultrasonic cleaners to keep your vinyl collection in top-notch condition.

F302i

by Fyne Audio

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