The Suhr PT100 Signature Edition head bears the name of guitarist Peter Thorn. He’s known for his session and touring work with artists like Melissa Etheridge and Chris Cornell. Thorn is also one of the foremost experts on tone and quality in the music industry today. It took five years […]
Amps
Can You Put an Amplifier on Top of a Speaker?
Think about the last time you went to a concert or a show that stood out. For me, I went to see a band called Plankeye back in my early adult years. That group could grind out a sound that was a mix of Seattle grunge and heavy metal that […]
Do Amplifiers Lose Power Over Time?
Amplifiers create sound because electricity runs through the equipment to power the speakers. That energy impacts the materials included in the unit’s design, generating wear and tear that eventually causes the amp to wear out. Some amplifiers need more attention than others to stay in good repair. Vacuum tubes often […]
Axe – Fx III Mark II
Fractal Audio Systems came into existence in 2006 with the Axe – Fx series of preamp and effect processors release. Ever since the electric guitar became a presence in the music industry, guitarists experimented with creating new sounds from the stock options available from the instrument. That process led to […]
DAC vs. DAC Pre-Amplifier Differences in Sound
“DAC” stands for “Digital to Analog Conversion.” Most DACs have a volume control function that gives the equipment the option to serve as a straight DAC or a DAC with a pre-amplifier. If you only listen to the output differences from DACs with your ears, you might not notice anything […]
Schiit SYS – Review
Founded in 2010, Schiit was founded by two experienced audiophiles who work with brands like Sumo and Theta. The pedigree of the company’s leadership includes work on the Angstrom 200 and the Andromeda III, among several other projects. Although the name is funny to say, the results you’ll get with […]
User Reviews: Peavey KB100
Although the KB100 is a 100W amp, it operates at 70 watts. It’s on the older side, but aging well since it produces minimal distortion. That’s indicated by the 0.2% THD rating. Once you get into the higher power levels, the THD rating can reach as high as 5%, but […]
British vs. American Amps
When you are on a quest to create your signature sound, the amplifier is one of the most essential ingredients in that recipe. An amp’s performance dictates the overall sound that your instrument produces. If you want to develop a better tone, that often means investing in the best possible […]
Mono Blocks on a Budget: Is It Possible?
Modern audio systems for vehicles have become quite complex in recent years. What was once a simple analog installation has turned into an extensive industry with multiple options to review. Almost every modern audio system has something in common with all the others out there. A power amp is necessary […]
Element II – Amps + DACs
The Element II comes from the brilliant designers at JDS Labs. This company designs and manufactures some of the best audiophile amps and DACs you can find anywhere in the world. Their goal is relatively simple. Every product is meant to deliver a genuine and authentic sound while offering affordability […]