SPEC has unveiled its first external DAC, the RMP-DAC3X, marking a notable expansion from their renowned amplifier lineup. Tailored for the discerning audiophile, this two-piece unit separates the DAC from its power supply, emphasizing purity in signal processing.

At the heart of the RMP-DAC3X is a dedication to authentic sound reproduction. SPEC has meticulously selected high-quality components, particularly focusing on capacitors and a specialized R-core transformer. This transformer ensures robust and stable power delivery, providing the necessary drive current for an unadulterated audio experience.

One of the standout features is the attention to the unit's physical construction. The casing incorporates multiple types of wood, with a spruce panel at the base—the same material traditionally used in the top plates of violins. This choice isn't merely aesthetic; spruce's natural resonance contributes to a richer overtone palette, enhancing the musicality and timbre of the audio output. It's as if the DAC itself becomes a musical instrument, resonating in harmony with the sound it processes.

On the technical front, the RMP-DAC3X impresses with its capabilities. It handles PCM signals up to 32-bit/384kHz and supports DSD Native 256 and DoP 128 via USB-A and USB-B inputs. Other digital inputs accommodate PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz. For output, the DAC offers both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR connections, catering to a variety of high-end audio setups.

The front panel is user-friendly, featuring two headphone outputs—a standard 6.35mm jack and a 3.5mm mini-jack—alongside a volume control that can be bypassed if preferred. This flexibility allows audiophiles to integrate the DAC seamlessly into their existing systems, whether for personal listening or as part of a larger audio chain.

Physically, the RMP-DAC3X DAC unit measures 215 x 82 x 299 mm and weighs in at 3 kg, while the separate power supply is slightly larger at 215 x 122 x 273 mm and weighs 4 kg. This separation of components underscores SPEC's commitment to minimizing interference and preserving signal integrity.

While pricing and availability details are yet to be announced, the RMP-DAC3X is poised to be a significant addition to the high-end audio market. Its blend of technical prowess and thoughtful design reflects SPEC's philosophy of creating equipment that doesn't just play music but embodies it.

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SPEC Launches First External DAC RMP DAC3X

SPEC Introduces RMP DAC3X External DAC with Advanced Signal Processing


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.


Two iconic Italian brands, Sonus faber and Maserati, have joined forces to deliver an audio experience as luxurious as a cruise in a GranTurismo. Enter the Amati Folgore: a special edition speaker designed to marry the epitome of sound fidelity with Italian craftsmanship. This collaboration extends beyond just an audio equipment release; it signifies a harmonious blend of innovation, sustainability, and acoustic brilliance.

## Unparalleled Listening Experience

The Amati Folgore represents Sonus faber's unmatched dedication to sound quality. The speaker is a fifth-generation model in the Amati series and is color-coded in Rame Folgore, akin to the Maserati GranTurismo. The intention is not merely to create a speaker but an "unparalleled listening experience," reflecting the grandeur of the Maserati GranTurismo.

## The Genius Behind Materials

The speaker's front panel is made of ECONYL®, a unique material derived from recycled nylon waste. This eco-friendly material has also been used in Maserati's GranTurismo Folgore, marking it the first time ECONYL® is used in a car. The material undergoes an aesthetic transformation, achieving a highly matte surface with a parametric design, all thanks to a specialized laser processing technique.

## Seamless and Refined Aesthetic

The speaker cabinet exhibits the Maserati trident and is dressed in the same GT Folgore finish as the car. The Rame Folgore color is a result of meticulous research on the interaction between light and color. Influenced by modern architecture, especially the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the design evolves, capturing different hues as it interacts with the lighting of the surrounding environment.

## Technical Mastery

But what's a gorgeous speaker without outstanding sound? The Amati Folgore is not just a pretty face; it's a marvel of acoustic engineering. Its 3.5-way speaker system is finely tuned, with a 28mm tweeter, a 150mm midrange, and two 220mm woofers. This produces a frequency response range from 28 Hz to 35,000 Hz, and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms.

## Sustainability Meets Craftsmanship

Sonus faber is known for its commitment to the art of sound engineering. Each speaker undergoes rigorous testing, followed by hand tuning to perfect its natural sound. This commitment to acoustic purity has been carried through into the development of the Amati Folgore Special Edition, creating a listening experience that not only pleases the ear but also respects the planet.

## An Iconic Collaboration

The Amati Folgore represents a unification of Maserati's boldness with Sonus faber's history of technical innovation. The Maserati logo is thoughtfully integrated within Sonus faber’s renowned VOS (Voice of Sonus faber), symbolizing the unity of two iconic Italian brands.

## Conclusion: The Future of High-Quality Audio

While the Amati Folgore is already an incredible milestone, it is just the beginning of an exciting adventure into the future of high-fidelity audio. As both brands continue to push boundaries, audio enthusiasts can anticipate more breathtaking innovations in the future.

A Maserati-inspired high-fidelity floor-standing speaker by Sonus Faber, part of the Amati Folgore collection, showcasing a sleek dark finish.

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A close-up view of the top corner of a Sonus Faber speaker, featuring a delicately engraved emblem resembling a stylized triad of arrows or sails

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"A detailed view of a Sonus Faber speaker showcasing its intricately designed front panel. Prominently featured is a uniquely shaped mid-range driver with the signature 'SF' logo at its center

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Pair of Sonus Faber Amati Folgore speakers showcasing Italian high-fidelity craftsmanshi

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Maserati Limited Edition Sonus Faber speaker, made in Italy

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Sonus faber speaker detail showcasing the woven pattern and branded emblem.

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Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore

Sonus Faber is a brand that specializes in high-end audio products like speakers. They are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating both aesthetically beautiful and sonically superior audio equipment.

Sonus Faber

Experience unparalleled luxury and extraordinary sound quality with the special edition Amati Folgore speakers by Sonus faber, in collaboration with Maserati. Explore the craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable materials that make this speaker a masterpiece of audio engineering.

The Sonus Faber Amati is a high-end loudspeaker that embodies the craftsmanship and acoustic engineering of Italian audio design. The speaker features a striking cabinet that is often constructed from laminated wood, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also resonance control. The Amati typically utilizes a combination of cone and ribbon transducers to achieve a wide frequency response and exceptional sound clarity. The design often incorporates advanced technologies such as D.A.D. (Double Acoustic Dome) drivers and a complex crossover network that enhances the listening experience. The speaker's frequency response generally ranges from 30 Hz to 40 kHz, delivering deep bass and detailed highs. The sensitivity is often rated around 90 dB, making it compatible with a variety of amplifiers. The speaker stands on a sturdy base, which may feature adjustable spikes for improved stability and isolation. Overall, the Sonus Faber Amati is designed to offer an immersive audio experience, driven by both aesthetic and acoustic principles.

Amati


In the world of high-fidelity audio, the union of an amplifier and a speaker system is akin to a carefully choreographed dance. Each component, mastering its own role, seeks to complement the other—ultimately culminating in an experience that transcends mere sound into the realm of sonic artistry. While a plethora of articles, debates, and tech talks have muddied the waters around the topic of amplifier power versus speaker capabilities, it's crucial to cut through the noise for a nuanced understanding. Let's unpack this complicated relationship for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, making the narrative universally accessible but richly detailed.

## The Endless Debate: Power Dynamics in Amplifier-Speaker Pairing

The first thing to grasp is that there are two prevailing ideologies in this arena:

1.  **Amplifier Power > Speaker Power**: Advocates for this approach argue that an amplifier with greater power than the speaker can handle offers better audio quality.
    
2.  **Speaker Power > Amplifier Power**: The counterargument suggests that having speakers that can withstand more power than the amplifier can produce offers a safety net for the speakers.
    

### The High-Powered Amplifier Approach: The Dynamics and Dangers

**Pros**:

-   **Extended Dynamic Range**: The added power reserve lets your amplifier gracefully manage the ebbs and flows of musical dynamics. Imagine listening to a classical piece; the pizzicato strings would remain crisp, and the fortissimo climax would hit you without distorting.
    
-   **Reduced Clipping**: A more potent amplifier seldom pushes its boundaries, reducing the odds of hitting the dreaded "clipping" stage, which can cause permanent speaker damage.
    

**Cons**:

-   **The Peril of Overpower**: If an amplifier sends an overpowering signal, it could cook the voice coils of your speaker, causing irreparable damage.
    
-   **Budget Concerns**: High-wattage amplifiers can become a monetary black hole, especially if you aren't planning to use the added power.
    

### The Speaker-Heavy Equation: The Cautions and Cost-Effectiveness

**Pros**:

-   **Speaker Longevity**: If your amplifier cannot produce power exceeding your speakers' capabilities, the risk of damaging the speakers diminishes.
    
-   **Economical**: Generally, less powerful amplifiers are lighter on the wallet, an attractive option for budget-conscious listeners.
    

**Cons**:

-   **Clipping Risks**: Lower-wattage amplifiers risk clipping when pushed, leading to distortion—a mortal enemy to both speakers and audiophile sensibilities.
    
-   **Volume Constraints**: If you're hosting an outdoor party or have a large listening space, a lower-wattage system might not cut it.
    

## Time to Damage: A Red Alert for Audiophiles

It's not just the theoretical risk that should worry you; real-world damage can happen quicker than you think. An overdriven amplifier can cause distortion, and even brief exposure to such unclean signals can wear down your speakers. So, the golden rule? Turn down the volume at the first sign of audio discomfort.

## Beyond Wattage: Sensitivity and Impedance

In audio, wattage is just the tip of the iceberg.

-   **Sensitivity**: Expressed in dB/W/m, this metric indicates how loud a speaker will sound for a given power input. Hence, a high-sensitivity speaker powered by a low-wattage amplifier could potentially outperform a low-sensitivity, high-wattage counterpart.
    
-   **Impedance**: Given in ohms, impedance essentially tells you how much electrical resistance a speaker offers. Misaligned impedance between the amp and speakers can result in energy waste and possible damage.
    

## Universal Accessibility: The Amplifier in the Modern Age

Here's the kicker: Modern amplifiers, built with precision engineering, are generally forgiving. They are designed to operate efficiently, providing a consistent power curve that makes it easier for users globally to set up systems without an advanced engineering degree.

## Conclusion: A Balanced Harmony

The dialogue between amplifier power and speaker capabilities is indeed complex, but it's not unapproachable. By understanding these various elements, you're not just making an informed choice; you're making a statement about the quality of sonic experience you desire. Whether you're listening to music in a tiny apartment or setting up a home theater, the key is to find that sweet spot where your amplifier and speakers dance in perfect harmony.

a close-up view of a vintage amplifier, spotlighting two knobs VOLUME and BALANCE.

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Striking the Balance: Amplifier Power vs. Speaker Capabilities

Your go-to resource for mastering the balance between amplifier power and speaker capabilities. From the science of sensitivity to the risks of overpowering

SPEC Launches First External DAC RMP DAC3X

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The Complex World of Audio Remastering

Italian Elegance and Hi-End: The Sonus Faber & Maserati Amati Folgore

Striking the Balance: Amplifier Power vs. Speaker Capabilities