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

Heco

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Stepping into the realm of high-quality sound without the usual marketing fluff, let's talk about what makes Fyne Audio's F700SP series, particularly the F702SP and F703SP models, stand out in the crowded speaker market. It's not just about the fancy terms or the hefty price tag; it's about what these speakers actually do to make your music listening experience something special.

First off, these speakers come with something called IsoFlare drivers. Imagine having a speaker that throws sound at you from a single point, blending different tones perfectly to make music sound more natural and lifelike. That's what these drivers aim to do. It's like the vocalist or the guitar player is right there in the room with you, not scattered around.

Then there's this cool feature known as the BassTrax porting system. Ever felt like the bass in some speakers just doesn't feel right or fills the room properly? This system is designed to spread out the bass in a 360-degree pattern, making it smoother and more integrated into your space. It's about feeling the depth of the music without it being too overpowering or muddy.

The technical side also gets pretty interesting with the F700SP series. These speakers undergo a process called deep cryogenic treatment, which is a fancy way of saying they freeze the crossover components to relieve stress. This supposedly makes the sound clearer and more transparent. They also pack in some high-quality internal components like ClarityCap capacitors and Neotech wiring, aiming to keep the audio signal as pure as possible.

Design-wise, they didn't hold back. Available in finishes like Piano Gloss Black, White, Walnut, and a satin Natural Walnut veneer, these speakers are made to be both a feast for the ears and the eyes. Plus, they have these heavyweight aluminum plinths that not only look good but help in sound dispersion too.

Now, for the elephant in the room – the price. The F702SP and F703SP models are definitely on the higher end, with price tags of £11,999.99 and £14,999.99 respectively. It's a hefty investment, but for those who are serious about their audio, it might just be worth considering.

In essence, the F700SP series from Fyne Audio is about bringing high-end, detailed, and immersive sound to those who are willing to pay for that premium listening experience. It's not just about the specs or the luxury finishes; it's about how all these elements come together to make your favorite tracks sound the best they possibly can.

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How Deep Cryogenic Treatment Elevates the F700SP Series to Audiophile Heaven

Fyne Audio is a manufacturer of high-quality loudspeakers for audio systems.

Fyne Audio

The BassTrax technology in Fyne Audio's F700SP series offers a revolutionary listening experience with smooth, room-filling bass.

The F702SP by Fyne Audio stands as a pinnacle of their ongoing pursuit of acoustic perfection, embodied in an elegantly designed floorstanding speaker. Crafted by hand in the UK, this model boasts a sophisticated 200mm IsoFlare driver from the F1-8, which benefits from an enhanced HF waveguide that ensures a smoother frequency response. This advanced driver is set within the celebrated and award-winning F702 cabinet that is uniquely configured with twin cavities and utilizes the BassTrax LF diffuser for superior bass distribution.

Improvements do not halt at mechanical design; the crossover circuitry of the F702SP has undergone a significant redesign. Through the use of computational modelling coupled with exhaustive auditory trials, the circuitry has been finely tuned. It now includes high-quality Claritycap capacitors and Neotech PC-OCC wiring, which work in tandem to deliver an exceptionally pure signal transfer. The commitment to preserving audio integrity is further evidenced by gold-plated WBT Nextgen 0703 terminals and a specialized cryogenic treatment process, aimed at maintaining the fidelity of every sonic detail.

Supporting its superior sound technology, the F702SP is anchored by a robust aluminium base. This base is outfitted with M12 threaded support cones, providing the speaker with unparalleled stability. This feature not only enhances the physical steadfastness of the speaker but also contributes to its ability to deliver articulate and powerful audio performance. Ideally suited for medium to large-sized rooms, the F702SP offers an auditory experience that is both immersive and expansive, reflecting Fyne Audio's reputation for producing cutting-edge audio solutions.

F702SP

The F703SP is a refined version of the original F703 from Fyne Audio, integrating advanced technology from the F1 Series into its design. Crafted in Scotland, this floorstanding speaker boasts a 250mm IsoFlare point source driver, similar to that found in the F1-10, and is enhanced with a robust Neodymium HF magnet system and a 3” titanium dome. This configuration ensures a dramatic reduction in distortion and a smoother frequency response across the board. The reinvention of the crossover network in the F703SP demonstrates meticulous engineering, with optimization achieved through comprehensive computer modeling and critical listening tests. High-quality components such as Claritycap capacitors and Neotech PC-OCC wiring are utilized to maintain signal integrity and transparency.

Enhancements do not stop at internal components. The terminals of the F703SP feature superior gold-plated WBT Nextgen 0703 connectors and the crossover benefits from a unique cryogenic treatment performed in Fyne Audio’s own facilities, which further refines signal clarity. Stability is paramount in a speaker of this caliber; thus, it is equipped with a robust F1 grade machined aluminum platform with M12 threaded support cones. This base not only grounds the speaker solidly but also aids in the precise articulation of low-frequency details, making every listen a deeply engaging experience. The combination of sophisticated design, high-quality materials, and meticulous engineering makes the F703SP a powerhouse that captures the essence of pure audio performance.

F703SP


In this article, we're diving into the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 8, a speaker that's as much about style as it is about sound. Here's a quick rundown of what we'll cover:

-   **Beam Width Control**: Tailoring sound to your environment.
-   **Adaptive Bass**: Keeping the bass balanced at any volume.
-   **Room Compensation**: Smart sound adjustments for your specific room.
-   **Ultra-Wideband Tech**: Sound that follows you, not just sits there.
-   **Eco-Friendly Approach**: A nod to sustainable design.

Interested? Keep reading for the details...

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First off, the Beolab 8 is pretty sleek. It's got this modern look with a choice between wooden or fabric covers, which is cool because it can fit into different room styles. The top part is made of glass, which isn't just for looks; it's actually a touch panel for controlling the speaker.

Now, about its sound capabilities – it's quite versatile. There's this thing called Beam Width Control that lets you change how the sound spreads in the room. You can either have it focused directly at you for a more personal experience or spread it out to fill the room, great for when you have friends over.

The bass quality is worth noting. It's got this Adaptive Bass Linearisation tech, meaning the bass adjusts itself based on the volume. So, at lower volumes, you get a nice bass boost, but it doesn't go overboard when you crank up the volume.

Another interesting feature is its room compensation ability. Essentially, the Beolab 8 can figure out the acoustics of the room it's in and adjust its sound to fit the space. That's pretty handy because not everyone has the perfect room setup for speakers.

For those who are into tech, it uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, which is a fancy way of saying the speaker can adjust its sound based on where you are in the room, as long as you have your smartphone on you.

In terms of connectivity, it's got you covered with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even some legacy Bang & Olufsen connections. So, whether you're streaming music from your phone or hooking it up to an older system, it should work just fine.

Bang & Olufsen also seems to be thinking about the environment. They've made the Beolab 8 with materials that are supposed to be more degradable, reducing electronic waste. Plus, it's designed to be upgradable, so it's not just a one-and-done kind of purchase.

The catch? Well, it's pretty pricey. You're looking at a significant investment, but if you're after a speaker that combines good sound with a stylish design and some neat features, it could be worth it.

In short, the Beolab 8 is a mix of style, sound quality, and some smart features. If you're into your music and want a speaker that's a bit of a conversation piece, this could be a good pick.

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Bang & Olufsen Beolab 8: A Convergence of Innovation and Elegance

Bang & Olufsen is a Danish audio company that designs and manufactures high-end audio products. Their products are known for their sleek design and exceptional sound quality.

Bang & Olufsen

Get to know how the Beolab 8 adapts its sound to fit your room's acoustics, enhancing your listening pleasure


When it comes to setting up a HiFi audio system, one of the most overlooked components is often the speaker cable. While most enthusiasts are happy to invest significant sums in their amplifiers, speakers, and DACs, the speaker cable is often an afterthought. The question that many ask is: Do high-end speaker cables really make a difference?

## Different Gauges, Different Needs

The gauge of the speaker cable is its diameter, commonly specified in American Wire Gauge (AWG). A lower gauge means a thicker wire, and consequently, less resistance. For shorter distances, a 16-gauge cable may suffice, but many audio aficionados swear by 12-gauge cables for more demanding setups. The advantage of a lower gauge cable like 12-gauge is that it offers less resistance, ensuring that more of the amplifier's power reaches the speakers. However, lower gauge cables are stiffer and heavier, which can be cumbersome during installation.

For residential applications, especially those requiring runs of 150-180 feet, 14-gauge cables can be suitable. When it comes to in-wall installations, cables must meet specific safety standards, such as those established by the National Electrical Code (NEC), typically requiring at least a CL2 rating.

## Material Matters

The debate also extends to the materials used in the cables. While you can find exotic cables with silver and other costly materials, most cables are made from copper or copper-clad aluminum (CCA). Pure copper is the choice of many for its conductivity. Some popular brands like Blue Jeans Cable offer well-terminated cables using pure copper with ultrasonic bonding, hitting a sweet spot between cost and performance.

## Quality Versus Cost

There's an array of high-end options, with some costing hundreds of dollars. Martin Logan, a respected name in audio, suggests that even Amazon Basics will suffice, despite its use of copper-clad aluminum instead of pure copper. Other economical brands like GearIt and Monoprice are also commonly cited for delivering reliable performance without breaking the bank.

## Audiophile Skepticism

There are skeptics in the HiFi community who claim that as long as the wire is of sufficient thickness to handle the power and distance between your amplifier and speakers, a more expensive wire will not offer significant improvements in sound quality. In fact, some enthusiasts have even demonstrated the lack of difference between high-end cables and makeshift cables, including the infamous "coat hanger test," in which an ordinary coat hanger wire was used as a speaker cable to great effect.

## It's More Than Just Sound

What many find is that high-quality cables bring benefits beyond potential sound improvements. They are often more durable, with better shielding to protect against interference. Some also appreciate the aesthetics of well-made cables, which can enhance the overall experience of setting up and enjoying a HiFi system.

## The Final Word

While there's no definitive answer as to whether high-end speaker cables significantly improve sound quality, they do offer other benefits like durability and aesthetics. In the end, the choice often comes down to personal preference and budget. If you are keen to find out if higher-end cables will make a difference in your setup, the best approach is to try a few different types and decide for yourself. Even if the improvements in sound quality are subtle, the satisfaction gained from knowing you've optimized every part of your system can be well worth the investment.

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The Big Question About Speaker Cables: Do They Make a Difference?

Explore the complex world of HiFi speaker cables. Understand the factors like gauge, material, and quality, and whether they really impact your sound experience.

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Interesting articles

How Deep Cryogenic Treatment Elevates the F700SP Series to Audiophile Heaven

Bang & Olufsen Beolab 8: A Convergence of Innovation and Elegance

The Big Question About Speaker Cables: Do They Make a Difference?