Lyngdorf is a Danish audio brand that specializes in high-end audio products.

Lyngdorf

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The MH-2 is a highly efficient and discreet speaker designed to deliver top-tier performance without compromising on musicality. Offered in both matte black and matte white, this speaker is tailored for dynamic musical experiences across a wide spectrum of sounds. Due to its compact and solid design, the MH-2 not only maintains a minimal footprint but also excels at minimizing unwanted cabinet sound interference, enhancing the natural timbre of the music.

Its versatility is one of its key features, as it can be conveniently placed on furniture, wall-mounted, or installed using standard aftermarket 100x100mm brackets. Despite its shallow design, it provides robust sound performance, which is suitable for those who enjoy music at louder volumes. The MH-2 is crafted to handle increased volumes with ease, equipped with a temperature-resistant voice coil made from glass fiber and impregnated with polyimide resin, a ventilated magnet, and a copper cap on the magnet that collectively prevent temperature build-up and reduce distortion.

For an even more enriched sound experience, the MH-2 speakers function superbly as standalone units, yet shine when paired with additional high-end subwoofers like the BW-2. Integration with the TDAI-1120 or TDAI-3400 amplifiers, which feature built-in RoomPerfect™ and digital crossovers, creates a full-range system that outstrips competitors in its price bracket and beyond. Installation is straightforward: connect the MH-2 units with one or two BW-2 subwoofers to the TDAI, set the BW-2 to "bypass," and configure the setup through the TDAI’s menu. After running RoomPerfect™, the system is optimized for premium listening, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in superior sound quality.

MH-2

In the realm of high-end audio equipment, Lyra's latest offering, the Erodion EVO, is a significant development. This Moving Coil Step-Up Interface, tailored primarily for Lyra cartridges, is also adept at working with other low-impedance cartridges within the 2 to 10 ohms range. Its compatibility with Lyra's SL MC cartridges, including the Kleos SL, Etna Lambda SL, and Atlas Lambda SL, is particularly noteworthy.

The Erodion EVO stands out for its ability to reduce noise and minimize electronic artifacts more effectively than many phono stages. This feature ensures an elevated audio experience, often surpassing the performance of well-regarded high-gain, low-noise phono stages. Its wider bandwidth and dynamic range are other remarkable aspects, delivering a sonic impact that bridges the gap between an active head amp and a conventional step-up transformer.

Equipped with a 26dB gain, the Erodion EVO adeptly increases the signal voltage and output impedance of low-output, low-impedance MC cartridges, making it a suitable match for MM-compatible phono inputs of preamplifiers and phono stages with around 47 kohms load. This makes it versatile for a range of audio setups.

An integral part of the Erodion EVO is the Lyra-designed-and-made low-capacitance PhonoPipe output cable, which measures approximately 60 cm (2 ft.). This addition further enhances its performance. Moreover, the device offers two switchable grounding positions, with Position 2 (floating ground) being recommended for optimal performance.

In terms of its physical attributes, the Erodion EVO has a compact and sturdy build. It features three stainless steel spikes for stability and has a net weight of 2430 grams (5.2 lbs). Despite its technical sophistication, the device does not contain or require any electrical power supply, emphasizing its user-friendly nature and ease of integration into existing audio setups.

The release of the Erodion EVO is a testament to Lyra's commitment to advancing audio technology, offering audiophiles a product that enhances their listening experience with minimal electronic interference and maximal audio fidelity. For those interested in exploring this latest innovation in the audiophile world, visiting Lyra's official website or contacting their customer support would provide more detailed information and technical specifics. The Erodion EVO is priced at $6,500, reflecting its position in the high-end audio equipment market.

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Lyra Unveils Erodion EVO: A High-Fidelity Moving Coil Step-Up Interface with Exceptional Noise Reduction Capabilities

Experience unmatched 26dB gain with Lyra's Erodion EVO, a game-changer in audio fidelity.

In an ambitious move that underscores its commitment to innovation and quality in the audio industry, Canada's The Lenbrook Group of Companies has announced the creation of Lenbrook Media Group, a new business unit dedicated to revolutionizing the way high-resolution music is commercialized and delivered. This announcement, made at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on January 4, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Lenbrook and the wider audio technology industry.

Lenbrook, the parent company of globally recognized high-fidelity brands like NAD Electronics, PSB Speakers, and Bluesound, as well as the architect behind the renowned BluOS high-resolution multiroom platform, is no stranger to the audiophile community. Its latest venture, the Lenbrook Media Group, aims to harness and further develop the company's existing content management solutions, BluOS, MQA, and SCL6, to offer unparalleled audio experiences to music fans and enthusiasts across the globe.

The strategic formation of the Lenbrook Media Group is a testament to Lenbrook's foresight in recognizing the evolving landscape of the audio industry. As consumers increasingly demand higher quality and more immersive audio experiences, there is a clear need for innovative solutions that can deliver content that is both high in quality and easily accessible. By focusing on the commercialization of these advanced technologies, Lenbrook is positioning itself at the forefront of this burgeoning market.

Leading the charge of this new division is Mike Jbara, the former CEO of MQA and a respected figure with extensive experience in the music industry. Jbara's appointment is a strategic move, leveraging his deep understanding of music technology, licensing-oriented business activities, and his exceptional people skills. Under his leadership, Lenbrook Media Group is expected to drive significant advancements in the performance audio industry, fostering opportunities that empower creators, distributors, fans, broadcasters, and hardware manufacturers alike.

Gordon Simmonds, President and CEO of The Lenbrook Group, has articulated the vision behind this initiative, emphasizing the company's commitment to capturing and delivering the highest quality art directly into the homes of music lovers. The acquisition of MQA’s assets, which complements their existing BluOS platform, is a cornerstone of this strategy, allowing Lenbrook to fully capitalize on its unique position by providing the necessary focus, strategies, structure, and resources.

As the Lenbrook Media Group takes its first steps, it is clear that the company is not just content with maintaining its reputation for quality but is actively seeking to redefine what is possible in the audio industry. The focus on BluOS, MQA, and SCL6 technologies is particularly noteworthy, as these are seen as key to unlocking new levels of audio fidelity and user experience.

As the industry watches on, Lenbrook's move could very well signal a new era of innovation and quality in audio technology. By creating a dedicated unit for content delivery, the company is freeing itself to explore and exploit new opportunities in this space, potentially setting new standards for audio quality and distribution. As Mike Jbara and his team prepare to take the helm of this exciting new venture, the message is clear: Lenbrook is not just playing music; it's setting the tempo for the industry's future.

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Lenbrook Announces New Independent Media Business Unit

NAD is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment and electronics.

Bluesound is a brand that specializes in high-quality wireless audio systems.

Bluesound

Join the journey of hi-fi sound and discover how Lenbrook's audio solutions are changing the game


## Setting the Stage for a New Wave of Music Experiences

The onset of online music tours is a game-changer, not just for artists and fans but also for high-fidelity audio enthusiasts. The world of HiFi—an abridged term that encapsulates 'High Fidelity,' or the accurate reproduction of sound—finds itself at a fascinating intersection with this emerging trend. The new virtual concert landscape opens up fresh avenues for sonic exploration, providing opportunities to transform what can be a flat, one-dimensional experience into a rich, immersive one.

The advantages of a well-curated HiFi system have traditionally been enjoyed by those who could experience live performances in acoustically engineered spaces or those who could afford high-end home systems. But now, online concerts have expanded the scope. A live-streamed event viewed through an optimized HiFi setup can bring unparalleled depth and texture to the music, transcending physical boundaries and limitations.

As music tours increasingly go online, optimizing HiFi systems for this virtual landscape becomes a new frontier for both casual listeners and seasoned audiophiles. This transformation doesn't merely concern the hardware involved, but extends to the software, the streaming quality, and even the acoustics of the room where the audio is played. And that’s precisely what we will delve into.

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## The Virtual HiFi Tour

#### A World Tour of HiFi Systems

There's a fascinating diversity in HiFi setups across the globe, each configuration reflecting a unique auditory aesthetic shaped by culture, technological access, and individual preference. In this chapter, we'll embark on a virtual journey, making "stops" at various HiFi havens worldwide, examining what makes each of them tick.

**Vintage Systems in Japan** In Japan, there is a cult following for vintage HiFi systems, particularly vacuum tube amplifiers and horn loudspeakers. The audio setup is not just about the sound, but also about the craftsmanship and the aesthetic. The components usually found in these setups include DACs like the Denafrips Ares II and amplifiers like the legendary McIntosh MC275. The horn speakers, often custom-made, reproduce audio with a warmth that digital systems frequently lack.

**Cutting-Edge HiFi Lounges in Europe** Europe is home to some of the most technologically advanced HiFi lounges. Here, the setups are focused on achieving crystal-clear audio through high-resolution audio formats and top-of-the-line components. Brands like dCS and Chord Electronics are popular choices, their DACs often paired with equally impressive amplifiers, such as the Burmester 911 MK3. The speakers of choice are often planar magnetic or electrostatic models, offering a level of detail and clarity that is hard to match.

**High-End Setups in America** The U.S. takes a more eclectic approach, blending both vintage and modern elements to create versatile systems. You'll find setups employing the latest streaming technologies coupled with classic analog elements like vinyl turntables. For DACs, the Schiit Yggdrasil is a popular choice, often paired with monoblock amplifiers like the Pass Labs XA25 for a balanced, full-bodied sound. Speaker setups can range from the spatially expansive Magnepan panels to the pinpoint accuracy of bookshelf speakers like the KEF LS50.

In each of these setups, the common thread is a meticulous focus on component synergy. It’s not just about having the best individual parts but about how they interact to create a cohesive, enveloping soundstage. From the quality of the audio source and the accuracy of digital-to-analog conversion, to the power and clarity of amplification and the final sonic signature of the speakers—every element plays a crucial role.

As online music tours become increasingly prominent, understanding the unique characteristics of global HiFi setups can offer invaluable insights. Whether you're tuning in to a jazz performance from a New York lounge or a classical concert from a Berlin orchestra, the right HiFi configuration can bring you closer to being 'in the room' where it happens—even if you're half a world away.

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## Acoustic Properties in the Virtual Space

#### A Detailed Analysis of Sound Qualities in Live Streams

The translation of a live performance into a live-streamed event involves a complex interplay of acoustics, particularly when striving for high-fidelity sound reproduction. In this scenario, three critical properties are of utmost importance: sound staging, timbre, and dynamic range.

**Sound Staging** The ability to convey a sense of space, dimension, and location of instruments within that space is what we refer to as sound staging. In the context of a live-streamed concert, this becomes somewhat challenging. HiFi systems with an optimized pair of speakers and a well-calibrated amplifier can recreate a sound stage that gives a listener the illusion of a live venue's spatial characteristics. Look for systems with low levels of crosstalk and precise imaging capabilities to maintain the spatial cues present in high-quality recordings or streams.

**Timbre** Timbre refers to the character or quality of a musical sound that distinguishes different types of voice and instruments. High-resolution audio streams are more capable of maintaining the integrity of an instrument's timbre. A well-implemented DAC can make a substantial difference here, effectively conveying the texture and tonality of each instrument.

**Dynamic Range** In high-fidelity audio, dynamic range—representing the difference between the quietest and loudest sound in a track—is a critical factor. The limiting of dynamic range during live streaming is a common issue. It's advisable to seek out uncompressed or minimally compressed audio formats for live-streaming as they offer a broader dynamic range.

It's also worth mentioning the importance of the audio source material. Lossless formats like FLAC or ALAC are preferable for streaming, as they preserve the original recording's dynamic and tonal richness.

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## Signal Paths and Audio Protocols

#### Optimal Routes for Uncompromised Sound

Establishing a HiFi system that performs optimally in the context of online music tours involves understanding and effectively utilizing various audio protocols and signal paths.

**Audio Protocols** Various audio transmission protocols, like AirPlay, DLNA, and more specialized ones like Roon RAAT (Roon Advanced Audio Transport), play a critical role in preserving audio fidelity. These protocols are designed to handle high-resolution audio files with minimal loss, ensuring that the data from the source reaches the DAC with as much integrity as possible.

**Signal Routing** The route your audio signal takes from source to speaker can have a significant impact on sound quality. This pathway includes not only digital protocols but also the cables used for connection—whether USB, coaxial, or optical. Here, the rule of thumb is to minimize the signal path, avoid unnecessary conversions, and use high-quality, audiophile-approved cables.

**Interconnects** The role of interconnects—the cables connecting your different HiFi components—can’t be overstated. High-quality interconnects like those made from pure silver or oxygen-free copper can reduce signal degradation and interference. They ensure that the audio remains as uncolored as possible as it moves from your source to the amplifier and eventually to the speakers.

In the world of online music tours, the capabilities of your HiFi system can significantly impact your overall experience. By understanding the essentials of acoustic properties, signal paths, and audio protocols, you can be well-equipped to curate a setup that brings you closer to the music, making each live-streamed event a memorable sonic journey.

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## Calibrating Your HiFi System for Online Concerts

#### A Step-By-Step Guide to Optimized Settings

Once you have your HiFi components—DAC, amplifier, speakers—properly selected and connected, calibration is the next pivotal step to ensure that your online concert experience is as close to the live event as possible. Let's delve into some critical calibration parameters.

**Room Acoustics** Your room is the final, and often most overlooked, component of your HiFi setup. Acoustic treatments like diffusers and bass traps can mitigate room modes and standing waves, thereby improving sound quality. At the very least, a Room EQ system should be utilized to measure and subsequently correct the room's frequency response.

**Speaker Placement** The location of your speakers in relation to the listening position can greatly affect sound quality. For a stereo setup, the ideal is an equilateral triangle between the two speakers and the listener's head. Toe-in adjustment and vertical alignment are also critical for optimizing the imaging and sound stage.

**DAC and Amplifier Settings** High-quality DACs often come with filters that can subtly alter the sound character. Similarly, amplifiers may have gain settings that can be adjusted to better match your speakers' sensitivity. Keep an eye on quantifiable metrics like Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), which should be as low as possible (below 0.1% is a good benchmark), and frequency response curves to ensure linearity across the audible spectrum.

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## Conclusion

#### The Future Landscape of HiFi and Online Concerts

As we navigate the evolving landscape of online music tours and high-fidelity audio, it's exhilarating to think about the innovations that lie ahead.

**High-Resolution Audio Streaming** Technological advances are continuously pushing the limits of what is possible with high-resolution audio streaming. Lossless and even high-res lossless streaming at 24-bit/192kHz are no longer a pipe dream but a reality that is increasingly accessible.

**Adaptive Audio Algorithms** Imagine a world where your HiFi system could adapt in real-time to the specific genre or even the song that is being played, optimizing the acoustic properties dynamically. With advancements in machine learning and signal processing, this is no longer the stuff of science fiction.

**Interactive Online Concert Experiences** As streaming technology improves, we can anticipate more interactive features in online concerts, such as multiple camera angles or even binaural audio streams for a more immersive experience. These will leverage HiFi systems in novel ways, providing yet another layer of immersion and engagement.

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By focusing strictly on high-fidelity audio components and technologies, this guide aims to prepare audiophiles and enthusiasts for the unparalleled experience of attending online music tours with impeccable sound quality. The future holds immense promise, and the confluence of HiFi audio and online concerts is poised to take our musical journeys to an entirely new echelon.

Illustration of a modern pair of highend headphones with intricate design detailsconce.png

Mastering Online Music Tours with High-Fidelity Audio

Discover how high-fidelity audio is transforming the landscape of online music tours. From global HiFi setups and room acoustics to audio protocols and streaming technologies, this comprehensive guide prepares audiophiles for a rich, immersive virtual concert experience.

MH-2

by Lyngdorf

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