Thorens is a brand that specializes in high-quality turntables and vinyl-related equipment.

Thorens

TCD 2000

In a recent turn of events, Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MFSL) has agreed to a $25 million settlement over a class-action lawsuit concerning their "Ultradisc One Step" and "Original Master Recording" products. The issue at hand was the alleged use of digital mastering in what was marketed as an all-analog process, leading to a significant backlash from the audiophile community. Despite the legal settlement, opinions among consumers are mixed.

Some consumers feel vindicated, asserting that the analog purity they paid a premium for was compromised. They argue that the settlement is a rightful acknowledgment of the misleading marketing practices. Others, however, take a more pragmatic view. They suggest that the uproar is somewhat overblown, noting that the quality of the records was never in question, only the process by which they were made. This group might point out that if the records sounded good before the revelation, they should still sound good now.

A notable segment of responses comes from those who see a broader implication in the case. They argue that the entire episode highlights how challenging it can be to distinguish between analog and digital quality, suggesting that the perceived superiority of one over the other is largely psychological. This perspective is not just about defending digital processes but also about questioning the staunch, sometimes elitist preferences that can prevail in the audiophile community.

However, amidst these varied reactions, a common theme is a disappointment over the perceived deception. Whether they are outraged, indifferent, or philosophically musing about the nature of sound quality, many agree that transparency is critical. Customers feel they have the right to know exactly what they're buying, especially in a market that often commands a premium price for perceived quality.

In the end, the settlement may close a legal chapter for MFSL, but it opens up a broader conversation about marketing, consumer expectations, and the subjective nature of sound quality in the modern music industry. Whether this leads to more informed consumers, changes in marketing strategies, or a reevaluation of what quality means in an increasingly digital world remains to be seen.

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Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab Agrees to Multimillion-Dollar Settlement in Mastering Process Lawsuit

MoFi Electronics is a brand that specializes in high-quality audio equipment, particularly renowned for their dedication to delivering an authentic, audiophile-grade listening experience. Their product line is often characterized by meticulous engineering, where each component is selected and crafted to preserve the integrity and detail of the original audio recording.

One of the hallmarks of MoFi Electronics is their turntables, which are designed with precision mechanics to ensure stable rotation and minimal vibration. This focus on mechanical stability not only enhances the clarity and depth of the sound but also extends the life of vinyl records. Additionally, their turntables often feature aesthetically pleasing designs that blend classic elements with modern technology, making them not just audio equipment but also a piece of art for enthusiasts.

MoFi also offers a range of phono cartridges, meticulously engineered to extract subtle nuances from vinyl records. These cartridges are known for their ability to provide a warm, dynamic sound profile, which appeals to those who appreciate the unique qualities of analog audio.

Furthermore, MoFi Electronics extends its expertise to other audio components like phono preamps, which are designed to amplify the signal from the turntable with minimal distortion. Their preamps often incorporate advanced electronic design to ensure that the amplified signal remains as true to the original recording as possible.

MoFi

Mobile Fidelity's legal resolution and implications


MoFi Electronics has announced the release of its latest high-end audio equipment, the MasterDeck Turntable, designed by the acclaimed Allen Perkins. This reference-grade turntable, priced at $5,995, is poised to set a new standard in vinyl reproduction.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each MasterDeck is hand-assembled in limited batches in Ann Arbor, Michigan, ensuring unparalleled quality control. The turntable features a state-of-the-art 10-inch dual-pivot carbon-fiber tonearm, allowing for precise adjustments and friction-free tracking. This advanced tonearm supports a wide range of cartridges and includes premium internal wiring from Cardas Audio for optimal sound quality.

A highlight of the MasterDeck is its three-speed selection, accommodating 33, 45, and 78 RPM records. It also includes a fine-tuning trim adjustment for precise playback speed, crucial for achieving accurate and faithful audio reproduction.

The MasterDeck's performance is further enhanced by its sensor-regulated motor. Equipped with a three-phase brushless DC drive, it offers exceptional stability and precision in rotational speed. The motor's isolated design plays a critical role in producing clear and accurate sound, free from interference.

Another key feature is the turntable's anti-vibration feet, designed by Harmonic Resolution Systems (HRS). These feet provide exceptional isolation from environmental vibrations and feedback, ensuring stability and clarity in audio output.

The MasterDeck showcases a 1.75-inch thick Aluminum-Delrin hybrid platter, designed to reduce resonance and provide a stable base for vinyl playback. This design choice is crucial for maintaining the purity of the audio signal.

With its combination of innovative design, advanced engineering, and high-quality materials, the MoFi MasterDeck Turntable is set to become a coveted item among audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts seeking the ultimate listening experience.

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MOFI's MasterDeck's Anti-Vibration Tech Transforms Vinyl Listening

MoFi's MasterDeck: Revolutionizing vinyl playback with anti-vibration technology for unparalleled sound fidelity.

#### Why Acoustic Terminology Matters

Understanding the language of acoustics is not just for scientists or sound engineers; it's essential for anyone passionate about achieving the best sound experience, whether you're an audiophile or a professional. Knowing terms like "Reverberation" or "Absorption" can help you diagnose problems in your listening room or even enhance your enjoyment of music or movies.

#### The Four Pillars

At the heart of acoustic understanding are four key terms: Reverberation, Absorption, Reflection, and Diffusion. Think of these as the four pillars that uphold the 'temple' of sound quality. Understanding these terms can significantly elevate your listening experience.

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### Unpacking Reverberation

#### What is Reverberation?

Reverberation is the continuation of sound in a particular space even after the original sound source has stopped. Imagine clapping your hands in an empty room; the sound lingers for a few moments, bouncing off the walls, ceiling, and floor. That lingering is reverberation. Too much of it can muddy sound quality, while too little can make a room feel "dead."

#### Reverberation Time (RT60)

RT60 is a metric that measures how long it takes for the sound to decay by 60 decibels in a room. In simple terms, it gauges how 'echoey' a room is. Measuring RT60 helps in tuning a room for optimal sound quality. For example, a home theater might aim for a shorter RT60 to keep dialogues crisp, while a concert hall might aim for a longer RT60 to enrich musical notes.

#### The Role of Reverberation in Different Environments

Reverberation behaves differently depending on where you are. In a recording studio, excessive reverberation is usually undesirable as it can muddle the clarity of recordings. Conversely, in a concert hall, a certain level of reverberation can add richness and warmth to live performances. Even in your living room, getting the reverberation right can make your hi-fi system shine.

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### The Absorption Factor

#### What is Sound Absorption?

Sound absorption refers to the process where materials, like acoustic foam or carpeting, "soak up" sound waves, reducing echo and background noise. Imagine sound absorption like a sponge soaking up water, but in this case, the sponge is soaking up sound energy.

#### Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC)

The Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) is a number between 0 and 1 that indicates how well a material absorbs sound. A higher NRC means better absorption. For example, acoustic ceiling tiles with an NRC of 0.7 would absorb 70% of the sound hitting them, reflecting the remaining 30% back into the room.

#### Practical Applications of Absorption

In a home theater, strategic placement of absorbing materials can help reduce unwanted noise and echoes, making dialogues and musical scores clearer. In recording studios, absorption is essential for capturing the 'true' sound of an instrument or voice without interference from the room itself. Even in industrial settings, absorption can be crucial for employee comfort and safety, mitigating the impact of machine noise.

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### Understanding Reflection

#### The Basics of Sound Reflection

Sound reflection is the phenomenon where sound waves bounce off surfaces like walls, floors, and ceilings. Imagine throwing a ball at a wall; it comes back to you, right? Sound behaves similarly. When sound waves encounter a hard surface, they reflect back into the room. This can either be a positive or negative factor, depending on what you're aiming for acoustically.

#### First Reflection Points

First reflection points are the initial surfaces that sound waves hit after leaving a speaker. They're critical because these first reflections will reach the listener almost immediately after the direct sound, and can either clarify or muddy the sonic picture. In most cases, these are spots on your side walls, ceiling, or floor. Knowing where these points are can help you decide where to place absorbing or diffusive materials.

#### Reflective Surfaces and Sound Quality

Reflective surfaces aren't all bad; sometimes they're exactly what a room needs. For example, in a home theater, you might want some reflection off the side walls to make the audio sound more spacious. However, in a recording studio, excessive reflection could distort the true sound of an instrument or voice. The key is to find a balance between reflective and absorbent surfaces.

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### The Complexity of Diffusion

#### What is Sound Diffusion?

Diffusion is the scattering of sound waves in multiple directions. Unlike absorption or reflection, which deal with sound in a more linear way, diffusion disperses sound, reducing the sense of localization. Think of it like a garden sprinkler for sound; it scatters water (sound) uniformly in different directions.

#### Types of Diffusers

There are various types of diffusers, but two common ones are Quadratic Residue Diffusers (QRD) and Primitive Root Diffusers (PRD). QRDs use a sequence of well depths to scatter sound, while PRDs utilize a different mathematical formula for a more randomized scattering. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, but the goal is the same: to spread sound energy across a room evenly.

#### The Role of Diffusion in Room Acoustics

Diffusion can enhance a space by making it sound larger and more open. It helps break up sound energy and redistributes it throughout the room. This is beneficial in places like home theaters where you want a balanced, immersive sound field, or in music studios where you want to capture a more natural ambiance.

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### Putting it All Together

#### The Interplay Between the Four Terms

Understanding Reverberation, Absorption, Reflection, and Diffusion in isolation is good, but appreciating how they interact is even better. For instance, too much absorption can make a room sound lifeless, but adding diffusion can breathe life back into it. Likewise, too much reflection could cause problems, but the right amount of reverberation could fix it.

#### Case Studies

Real-world examples can illustrate how a blend of these four elements can create an acoustically optimized space. Whether it's a Grammy-winning recording studio or a state-of-the-art home theater, the principles remain the same: balance and harmony between these four pillars.

#### Final Thoughts and Further Resources

Mastering these terms is essential for anyone interested in acoustics, whether you're a professional or just passionate about sound. For those looking to deepen their knowledge, various books, online courses, and consultation services are available to guide you further.

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What is Reverberation, Absorption, Reflection, and Diffusion

A proper understanding of acoustical terminology is essential for effective room treatment. Learn how they impact room treatment and sound quality.

TCD 2000

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Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab Agrees to Multimillion-Dollar Settlement in Mastering Process Lawsuit

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