Yamaha is a Japanese brand known for manufacturing a wide range of products, including musical instruments, audio equipment, electronics, and motorcycles.

Yamaha

The Yamaha A-460 is a stereo integrated amplifier manufactured by Yamaha in the 1980s. It offers 50 watts per channel at 8 ohms and features include tone controls and a phono input.

A-460

let's dive into the Genuin Audio Drive, a piece of gear that's clearly not your average turntable. First off, this turntable has seen some significant upgrades since its first appearance. It's sleeker, more compact, and honestly, it's got this cool vibe that meshes the old-school with the cutting edge. Imagine your classic turntable but with a futuristic twist.

The tech under the hood is where it really shines. The Drive has shifted from a single pulley to a trio of synchronous motors. This isn't just for show; it directly translates to a smoother spin and, by extension, cleaner sound. The setup with these motors driving an aluminum sub-platter through a triple-pulley system is pretty ingenious. It's all about reducing those tiny vibrations that can mess with your music, ensuring everything sounds as crisp as possible.

Damping is a big deal here, too. They've mixed materials like aluminum and multiplex wood with some high-tech acrylic and POM (that's a fancy engineering plastic) to cut down on any resonances that might interfere with the sound. Essentially, the turntable is designed to be as quiet as possible, so all you hear is your music.

Now, the phonostage pearl integrated into the Drive is something to talk about. It caters to vinyl enthusiasts with three adjustable equalization curves—RIAA, Decca, and Columbia. This means you can tweak the sound just right for different records, even on the fly, which is pretty neat.

The tonearm and cartridge have also been upgraded. They've put in this special damping gel in the tonearm to fight off unwanted vibrations, making sure the needle stays on track. The cartridge, called sting, aims to deliver pure, uncolored sound. It’s all about getting that music to sound exactly as it was meant to.

Let's talk numbers because, yes, quality like this doesn't come cheap. The whole setup, including the turntable, the phonostage, the tonearm, and the cartridge, sits at 19,900 euros. It's a hefty price tag, but then again, this isn't just any turntable. It's a statement piece, a blend of high-end technology and design that aims to deliver the ultimate listening experience.

So, in essence, the Genuin Audio Drive is for those who are serious about their vinyl. It’s an investment in getting the most authentic and dynamic sound out of your records. From its technical prowess to its sleek design, it's a turntable that doesn't just play records; it celebrates them.let's dive into the Genuin Audio Drive, a piece of gear that's clearly not your average turntable. First off, this turntable has seen some significant upgrades since its first appearance. It's sleeker, more compact, and honestly, it's got this cool vibe that meshes the old-school with the cutting edge. Imagine your classic turntable but with a futuristic twist.

The tech under the hood is where it really shines. The Drive has shifted from a single pulley to a trio of synchronous motors. This isn't just for show; it directly translates to a smoother spin and, by extension, cleaner sound. The setup with these motors driving an aluminum sub-platter through a triple-pulley system is pretty ingenious. It's all about reducing those tiny vibrations that can mess with your music, ensuring everything sounds as crisp as possible.

Damping is a big deal here, too. They've mixed materials like aluminum and multiplex wood with some high-tech acrylic and POM (that's a fancy engineering plastic) to cut down on any resonances that might interfere with the sound. Essentially, the turntable is designed to be as quiet as possible, so all you hear is your music.

Now, the phonostage pearl integrated into the Drive is something to talk about. It caters to vinyl enthusiasts with three adjustable equalization curves—RIAA, Decca, and Columbia. This means you can tweak the sound just right for different records, even on the fly, which is pretty neat.

The tonearm and cartridge have also been upgraded. They've put in this special damping gel in the tonearm to fight off unwanted vibrations, making sure the needle stays on track. The cartridge, called sting, aims to deliver pure, uncolored sound. It’s all about getting that music to sound exactly as it was meant to.

Let's talk numbers because, yes, quality like this doesn't come cheap. The whole setup, including the turntable, the phonostage, the tonearm, and the cartridge, sits at 19,900 euros. It's a hefty price tag, but then again, this isn't just any turntable. It's a statement piece, a blend of high-end technology and design that aims to deliver the ultimate listening experience.

So, in essence, the Genuin Audio Drive is for those who are serious about their vinyl. It’s an investment in getting the most authentic and dynamic sound out of your records. From its technical prowess to its sleek design, it's a turntable that doesn't just play records; it celebrates them.

drive-variations-1.jpg

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Genuin Audio Introduces a New Turntable Revolutionizing Vinyl Listening

Genuin Audio

Genuin Audio's latest turntable is here. Learn how it's setting new standards in the vinyl listening experience


When it comes to setting up audio equipment in your home, the type of cables you use can be just as critical as the hardware itself. One common question for DIY enthusiasts is whether it’s better to run a long RCA cable from the source to an amp located next to the speakers or use a long speaker cable from the amp to the speakers.

## Signal Susceptibility and Interference

There's a general consensus that speaker wire signals are less susceptible to interference compared to RCA cables. This can be especially significant if you are running the cables behind walls where they might be exposed to electromagnetic noise from other electrical lines.

## Gauge and Material Matters

When opting for long runs of speaker cables, it's crucial to choose a suitable gauge and material. Oxygen-free copper is often recommended over aluminum-clad copper for better signal quality. The thickness (gauge) of the wire can also play a role; a thicker wire may be more effective for longer runs, reducing signal loss and potential degradation of audio quality.

## The Balanced Option

Some argue that using balanced cables like XLR instead of RCA is the "correct" way to tackle this problem. However, it's important to note that balanced connections require compatible outputs on the device, something not common on consumer-level devices. Even though balanced cables offer significant advantages in minimizing interference and delivering a clearer signal over longer distances, they might not be applicable to all setups.

## Alternatives and DIY Solutions

For those who love tinkering, DIY solutions such as using baluns for long cable runs have been reported to be effective. These can run over distances as long as 300 ft with minimal signal drop-off and noise reduction. Ethernet to RCA boxes using audio-grade transformers have also been used successfully. However, the performance of such DIY solutions in an audiophile system might vary and warrant careful consideration.

## Audio Roll-offs and Industry Insights

Some professionals in the broadcast sector have noted that long runs of RCA cables could lead to high-frequency roll-offs, affecting the sound quality. On the other hand, they've successfully run speaker cables for approximately 100 feet without any discernible degradation in sound quality.

## The Bottom Line

If you're dealing with a domestic setup, and you don't have the option for balanced outputs, the safe bet is to go with a long run of good-quality speaker wire. This approach seems to be the best compromise between maintaining sound quality and minimizing interference, especially if the amp is placed close to the source. If the Wife Approval Factor is crucial, this method also allows for a more discreet setup. However, if your system allows for balanced connections and you're after the pinnacle of audio fidelity, XLR cables would be the recommended path.

raw high-fidelity speaker cable without any connectors. The cable should display a detailed braided sheath

raw high-fidelity speaker cable.png

RCA vs Speaker Cables: The Best Choice for Long Runs in Home Audio

Choosing the right cable can be a game-changer for your home audio setup. Explore the debate between RCA and speaker cables for long distances.


## 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.

A-460

by Yamaha

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Mastering Online Music Tours with High-Fidelity Audio