PMC is a British company that specializes in designing and manufacturing high quality loudspeakers and professional monitoring systems. Their products are used in various settings, from professional recording studios to home audio systems. PMC's technology is particularly noted for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) design, which enhances the bass output and audio clarity. Their products cater to audiophiles and professionals seeking accurate and immersive sound reproduction.

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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


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!


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.

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How Deep Cryogenic Treatment Elevates the F700SP Series to Audiophile Heaven

The Hidden World of Vinyl Pressings

A Look at Spotify's "Supremium" Tier