Goldring is a brand that specializes in high fidelity audio equipment, particularly turntable cartridges and phono cartridges.

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The allure of vinyl records lies not just in their musical content but also in the intricate details of their pressings, which directly impact sound quality. From the classic charm of original pressings to the polished nuances of remasters, each variant offers a unique listening experience. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the art of vinyl.

#### Original Pressings vs. Remasters: The Sonic Evolution

Original pressings are often lauded for their authenticity, capturing the raw essence of the recording era. They offer a snapshot of the music as it was first conceived, with all the nuances of the period's recording technology. In contrast, remasters come into play with advancements in audio engineering. They aim to refine the sound by enhancing clarity, balance, and depth. This process, when done right, can elevate the listening experience while maintaining the original's spirit.

#### The Impact of Different Pressings

Various pressings of the same record can differ in sound due to variables like mastering techniques, vinyl quality, and pressing methods. Higher-quality pressings may use purer vinyl, resulting in lower noise levels and a more pristine sound. The pressing plant's technology and expertise also significantly influence the final audio output.

#### Gold-Plated Records: Aesthetic vs. Acoustic Value

Gold-plated records, often created as collectibles, prioritize visual appeal over sound enhancement. They're typically not intended for regular playback and don’t offer a superior sound quality compared to standard pressings.

#### Record Weight: Does Heavier Mean Better?

The weight of a record, commonly expressed in grams (e.g., 180g), is thought to influence sound fidelity. Heavier vinyl is believed to provide a more stable playback experience, potentially leading to a cleaner sound. However, weight is just one factor in a complex equation of audio quality.

#### 33 1/3 vs. 45 RPM: The Speed Factor

Vinyl records are generally available in two speeds: 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM. The choice of speed can affect the record’s sound quality. 45 RPM records, due to their faster rotation speed, can offer better sound fidelity. This is because the faster speed allows for more groove detail per inch, leading to improved dynamics, less distortion, and a richer frequency response. However, this comes with the trade-off of shorter playback time per side.

#### Deciphering the Details: Barcodes and Artwork

Barcodes and artwork variations can help identify the release period and type of pressing. Barcodes are common on modern reissues and signify a digital-age release. Differences in artwork and packaging can also offer insights into the pressing's history and value.

#### The Rich Tapestry of Vinyl

Each aspect of a vinyl record, from its pressing type to its rotational speed, contributes to a unique auditory and collectible experience. The journey through the world of vinyl is as much about the nuances of these pressings as it is about the music they contain. For collectors and audiophiles, understanding and appreciating these subtleties is part of the vinyl record's enduring appeal and mystique.

vinyl records -  highlighting the various aspects of vinyl pressings and their impact

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The Hidden World of Vinyl Pressings

Gold-Plated or 180g Vinyl - uncover the truth behind these audio choices!


Back in the early days of hi-fi, around 1961, LEAK wasn't just making speakers—they were making history. Their original Sandwich speaker was a game-changer because it solved a big problem of the time: speaker cones that weren't stiff enough. You see, back then, the stiffness of the speaker cone was a make-or-break factor for sound quality. If the cone wasn't rigid enough, the sound got distorted, which was pretty common and a real buzzkill for music lovers.

So what LEAK did was kind of like what tech companies today do when they come up with a new smartphone or gadget—they found a clever workaround. They took expanded polystyrene, which is light and has good damping properties, and they sandwiched it between two aluminum sheets. This wasn't just for kicks—it was to give the cone the stiffness it lacked without adding too much weight. That way, the speaker could move back and forth really fast without bending out of shape. And just like that, the sound got a lot clearer, the bass felt right, and music had more punch to it.

Now, let's fast forward to our time. The new Sandwich 150 and 250 speakers from LEAK take that original stroke of genius and dial it up. They're leveraging all the advances we've made in materials and engineering to make something that's true to the spirit of the original but performs like a modern champ. We're talking about materials that didn't even exist back in the day, like aircraft-grade foam, which makes the new cones even stiffer and keeps the sound super crisp.

Why does this matter, you ask? Because music isn't just about noise; it's about feeling every strum, every beat, and every note exactly as it was intended. And that's what LEAK's new speakers aim to deliver, just like the original did all those years ago. It's about honoring the past not by staying stuck in it, but by building on it, improving it, and making sure the music always gets the respect it deserves.

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New LEAK Sandwich Speakers A Legacy Reborn in Hi-Fi

LEAK, a brand with deep roots in the history of audio innovation, was established by Harold Joseph Leak in 1934 in London, England. Known for its high-quality audio components, LEAK carved out a reputation for affordability combined with high performance, a hallmark that defined the brand for decades.

Harold Leak, identifying himself as a 'Sound Engineer – Technician,' alongside Ted Ashley, who became Chief Engineer, propelled LEAK to the forefront of the home audio equipment market. Together, they led the company through an era of significant technological advancements in amplifiers, loudspeakers, pickups, and turntables.

The mid-20th century was a transformative period for LEAK, as the brand navigated the challenges of wartime disruption to focus on developing purposeful audio technology. Post-war, the emphasis shifted towards high-fidelity systems, marking LEAK's entry into an era of low-noise, high-performance products that gained international acclaim.

A pivotal moment came in 1945 with the introduction of the LEAK Type 15 amplifier, which featured innovative 'negative feedback' and 'push-pull' triode connected KT66 valves, achieving an impressive 15 watts output. This product laid the groundwork for the brand's reputation in high-fidelity sound reproduction.

The late 1940s and 1950s saw LEAK introducing groundbreaking products like the TL/12, which became a standard for high-fidelity sound, and embarking on marketing campaigns that directly compared live versus reproduced music, showcasing the superior quality of LEAK systems. These efforts culminated in LEAK's products being adopted by prestigious institutions like the BBC.

Innovation continued with the introduction of the LEAK Sandwich loudspeaker in 1961, a design that utilized a novel approach to reduce vibrations and resonance, leading to more dynamic audio reproduction. This period also saw the development of the LEAK Stereo 30, a transition to transistor amplifiers that offered a more accessible price point to a broader audience.

Despite its innovations and contributions to the audio industry, LEAK faced challenges from global competition and changing market dynamics, eventually leading to the brand's acquisition by the Rank Organization in 1969 and a gradual fade from the forefront of the audio market.

After years of dormancy, LEAK was revived by the IAG Group, bringing the brand back to the market with a focus on blending classic styling with modern audio technology, ensuring LEAK's legacy continues for new generations of audiophiles.

Leak

The latest LEAK Sandwich speakers deliver crisp, precise audio with a nostalgic twist


If you're the type who appreciates good sound and has an eye for unique pieces in your living space, the Ferguson Hill Jetstream Loudspeaker System might just pique your interest. This isn't your average speaker setup; it's more like a piece of modern art that also happens to play music. But before you think it's all looks and no play, let's dive into what makes this setup tick.

### The Look and Feel

First off, these speakers are transparent. Yes, you read that right. The main horn speakers stand tall and clear, making them blend in yet stand out in any room they're placed in. It's not something you see every day, and that's part of the charm. The bass speakers follow suit with their own clear, sphere design, making the whole system look futuristic.

### What's Under the Hood

Now, for the techy bit. Ferguson Hill didn't just focus on making these speakers look good; they've poured a lot of thought into the sound quality as well. They teamed up with Cube Audio to develop a custom full-range drive unit for the horn speakers. This means you get a smooth transition of sound from the speaker to your ears, with minimal distortion. The bass speakers and amplifier are built to complement this setup, ensuring you get that deep, rich bass without losing any clarity in the sound.

### The Catch: Price

All this innovation and design doesn't come cheap. The Jetstream system is definitely on the pricier side, with the whole setup running into the tens of thousands. It's a hefty investment, but for those who have the means and are looking for something that doubles as a conversation piece and a high-quality audio system, it might just be worth it.

### Bottom Line

In essence, the Ferguson Hill Jetstream Loudspeaker System isn't for everyone. It's a blend of high-end audio engineering and unique design that'll appeal to those who value both aesthetics and sound quality. If you're after something that looks like it's straight out of a sci-fi movie and sounds like you're front row at a concert, and you don't mind the premium price tag, this could be the setup for you. Just remember, it's as much an investment in art and design as it is in audio technology.

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### Tech specs and Features

-   **Design & Materials:**
    
    -   Transparent horn speakers and bass units for aesthetic appeal and sound clarity.
    -   Materials include acrylic for the horns and spheres, and anodized aluminum for the amplifier, chosen for their acoustic properties and visual impact.
-   **Horn Speakers:**
    
    -   Developed in collaboration with Cube Audio, featuring bespoke semi-full range drive units.
    -   Sensitivity: 100dB at 1M/1KHz/1 watt, ensuring efficient sound projection.
    -   Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms, compatible with a wide range of amplifiers.
    -   Horn dimensions: Stands at 1.65 meters tall, providing a significant visual presence and acoustic function.
-   **Bass Units:**
    
    -   Equipped with neodymium-powered drive units within transparent acrylic spheres for deep bass performance.
    -   Low-pass filter set at 140Hz, allowing for a smooth transition between the bass and higher frequencies.
    -   Designed to work seamlessly with the horn speakers, ensuring a balanced and cohesive sound profile.
-   **Amplifier:**
    
    -   Class D bass amplifier, designed for efficient power usage and minimal heat generation.
    -   Power Output: 200 watts per channel, providing robust support for the bass units.
    -   Constructed from a solid block of aluminum, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional durability.

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A Closer Look at the Futuristic Transparent Ferguson Hill Jetstream Speakers

Ferguson Hill

From its transparent aesthetics to its sonic excellence, Ferguson Hill Jetstream redefines high-end audio systems.

G1012 GX

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Interesting articles

The Hidden World of Vinyl Pressings

New LEAK Sandwich Speakers A Legacy Reborn in Hi-Fi

A Closer Look at the Futuristic Transparent Ferguson Hill Jetstream Speakers