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

The NAD 202 is a stereo integrated amplifier designed for home audio systems.


In recent times, the landscape of music streaming services has become a battleground for audio quality. With Spotify's rumored "Supremium" tier, a volley has been fired that adds a complex layer to the ongoing conversations about sound quality, value, and the features that users genuinely desire.

## The Value of Quality: Spotify vs. Competitors

Deezer offers Redbook quality FLAC at $11 a month. Meanwhile, Apple Music is comparably priced and boasts hi-res audio. Users often argue that the quality of Apple Music far exceeds that of Spotify, even in standard AAC formats. However, others appreciate Spotify's robust feature set, particularly its music discovery algorithms.

### AAC vs. OGG Vorbis

The encoding format also plays a significant role in audio quality. While Spotify uses a mix of OGG Vorbis and AAC across platforms, many audiophiles believe AAC provides superior quality over MP3. The effectiveness of OGG Vorbis is debatable, especially on Android devices where AAC hasn't been implemented well.

## What's in a Price? 

The proposed price for Spotify's "Supremium" tier is causing a stir. While some users think $20 a month isn't unreasonable, others find it steep, especially when compared to offerings from Deezer, Apple Music, and Amazon. What complicates matters is Spotify's attempt to justify the higher price by bundling in additional features like audiobooks, which don't appeal to everyone.

### The Playlist Limit Woes

Deezer also comes under scrutiny for its playlist limitations. In contrast, Spotify offers greater flexibility, allowing users to create extensive playlists with thousands of songs.

## The Algorithm Game

Where Spotify often wins is in its sophisticated algorithms for music discovery. The platform introduces users to a wide range of new music, which is seen as one of its strongest points. However, some users argue that the algorithms have become less effective, circling back to music they've already listened to.

### The Convenience Factor

When it comes to multi-room and multi-device experiences, Spotify tends to win out. The convenience of Spotify Connect, which seamlessly finds speakers on your network, often trumps the audio quality debate for casual listening scenarios.

## Can You Even Tell the Difference?

Many are skeptical about the perceptible differences between high-res audio and Spotify's current maximum of 320 kbps. While the debate rages on, even among audiophiles, it remains a critical point for potential subscribers. Can most people discern the difference, and even if they can, is it worth the additional cost?

## Conclusion

The forthcoming Spotify "Supremium" tier is bound to shake up the existing landscape of music streaming services. However, whether it will fulfill the audiophile's dream or become a jack-of-all-trades offering that dilutes the brand's musical focus remains to be seen. In the end, the choice may boil down to what users prioritize most: is it audio quality, algorithmic discovery, convenience, or price?

As the world of streaming services continues to evolve, users are left to navigate this complex landscape, weighing the pros and cons to find their ideal musical home.

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A Look at Spotify's "Supremium" Tier

Explore the nuances of the music streaming wars as Spotify introduces its "Supremium" tier. Learn how it stacks up against competitors like Apple Music and Deezer in audio quality, features, and pricing. Is the higher cost justified by its offerings? Dive in to find out.


In the nuanced world of vinyl playback, phono preamplifiers play a pivotal role. These devices, often simply referred to as phono preamps, are tasked with amplifying the faint signal from a turntable to a level that's usable for a standard amplifier or audio receiver. A question that often arises among audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts is about the power management of these preamps: Why do many lack a power button, and is it reasonable to turn them on and off?

### The Case for Omission of Power Buttons

Phono preamps typically forgo the inclusion of a power switch for several reasons:

1.  **Continuous Operation**: A common belief in audiophile circles is that audio equipment performs best when it reaches and maintains a stable operating temperature, a state known as thermal equilibrium. This concept suggests that a preamp, constantly powered on, is always primed for optimal performance.
    
2.  **Simplicity in Design**: In high-end audio, the purity of the signal path is paramount. Each additional component in the circuit, including a power switch, is seen as a potential point of signal degradation. By eliminating the switch, the signal path remains as direct and unadulterated as possible.
    
3.  **Automatic Integration**: Some phono preamps are designed to power up automatically upon detecting a signal from the turntable or to be controlled by another component in the audio setup. This seamless integration renders a separate power switch unnecessary.
    

### Power Consumption: A Key Consideration

A notable aspect of phono preamps is their low power consumption. Most models use only a few watts, making them some of the least power-hungry components in an audio setup. This minimal usage often raises the question: is it even worth turning them off?

### The Debate: To Power Off or Not

The decision to power down a phono preamp is influenced by several factors:

-   **Longevity and Performance**: Consistent power to the preamp is argued to prolong its life and maintain sound quality. However, the impact of frequent power cycling on modern electronics is often minimal.
    
-   **Electrical Interference**: In some cases, powering on a phono preamp can cause electrical disturbances, as evidenced by noise or other issues in connected equipment. This might advocate for turning off the preamp when not in use.
    
-   **Energy Conservation**: While the energy savings from powering off a low-consumption device like a phono preamp are modest, every bit counts for those keen on minimizing their electrical footprint.
    

### A Personal Choice

In conclusion, the decision to leave a phono preamp powered on or to turn it off hinges on personal preferences, usage patterns, and specific equipment characteristics. With their low power consumption, the impact on your electricity bill or the environment is minimal, but for those prioritizing energy efficiency or concerned about the long-term health of their audio equipment, powering off is a viable option. As with many aspects of high-fidelity audio, the choice often comes down to a blend of practical considerations and personal philosophy.

a classic vinyl record with a subtle theme of power

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The Surprising Truth Why Your Phono Preamp Has No Power Button!

Ever wondered why your phono preamp doesn't have a power button? Uncover the surprising reasons and audio secrets now!

[The North German Museum for HiFi and Studio Technology](https://hifimuseumnord.de/museum/) is pretty much a one-of-a-kind spot in Germany, especially if you're into the history of music and how we've listened to it over the years. It's not your everyday museum; it's more like a deep dive into the evolution of everything from the phonographs your grandma might have danced to, all the way to the sleek digital players we use today. It's got a collection that feels like a walk through time, showcasing gadgets and gear that have shaped the way we experience music.

This place isn't just about displaying old and new sound equipment; it's like a chronicle of the audio journey. Imagine seeing the first tape recorders that were a big deal back in the day, sitting right next to the kind of high-tech digital stuff we take for granted now. It's fascinating to see how each piece of equipment played its part in moving us from the age of bulky, mechanical devices to today's compact, digital formats.

What makes this museum stand out is how it turns technical specs and history into something you can really get into. It's not about throwing a bunch of tech jargon at you; it's more about showing how each piece of equipment contributed to the bigger picture of music and sound. You get to see firsthand how advancements in technology have changed the way we listen to music, making it a cool place for anyone who's ever wondered about the gadgets behind their favorite tunes.

In short, the North German Museum for HiFi and Studio Technology is a unique slice of audio history tucked away in Germany. It's a place where you can see, hear, and even feel the evolution of sound technology. Whether you're a die-hard audiophile or just curious about how we got from vinyl to streaming, this museum offers a rare look into the past, present, and future of listening to music.

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From Phonographs to Digital - Exploring Germany's Audio Museum

Explore the unique museum in Germany where the journey of music technology from phonographs to digital players is beautifully showcased.

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by NAD

Interesting articles

A Look at Spotify's "Supremium" Tier

The Surprising Truth Why Your Phono Preamp Has No Power Button!

From Phonographs to Digital - Exploring Germany's Audio Museum