Record subscription services offer vinyl lovers and music fans the opportunity to discover new music and enjoy premium and exclusive record releases. I’ve trialed many record subscription services in my time running Sound Matters and seen numerous services come and go. During this time, I’ve learned one crucial thing: for a subscription service to endure, it must be unique; in … Read More
Austrian Audio Breaks into High-End HiFi with The Composer and Full Score One
Austrian Audio, best known for its professional studio microphones and headphones, has announced its entry into the high-end HiFi audio market with the release of The Composer premium reference headphones and the Full Score One premium headphone amplifier. A Peek into Austrian Audio’s Background Founded in 2017 by a team of former AKG personnel, Austrian Audio has been making its … Read More
Pro-Ject Unveils Exciting New Evo Tonearm Range
High Precision Tonearms, Hand-Made in Europe, Revealed After a Stellar Showcase at High-End Munich 2023. The EVO Tonearm Range consists of two versions: the Evo Standard and the Evo Premium. This range comprises four tonearm models, available in three lengths (9, 10, or 12 inches) and two finishes (black or high-gloss silver). Both straight and S-shaped tonearms grace the lineup, … Read More
How to Clean Vinyl Records – The Ultimate Guide
With the resurgence of vinyl records, understanding how to clean vinyl records is more crucial than ever to preserve their unique sound and tactile listening enjoyment, marking them as the epitome of musical ownership. Ensuring the longevity of your beloved vinyl collection hinges significantly on maintaining the cleanliness of each record. Clean vinyl records not only guarantee a superior listening … Read More
Rega Releases “Groundbreaking” Rega Naia Turntable
After previews at various global hi-fi shows, Rega has announced the official launch of the Rega Naia turntable. According to Rega, the new Naia turntable is the culmination of many years of painstaking development, initially used to create the now-famous ‘Naiad’ test bed turntable. Rega claims that the Naia incorporates the best aspects of this development and technology, transitioning them … Read More
11 Best Turntables with Built-in Preamp
In the age of convenience, setting up a turntable can seem like hard work compared with the convenience of streaming. The good news is, it’s worth it. Vinyl is arguably the best, most engaging way to experience music. Even better, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Gone are the days where built-in preamps sound terrible, and while separate audio components … Read More
Classic Albums: Pink Floyd – Dark Side of the Moon
Few albums can claim the massive success, long-lasting appeal, and songwriting quality of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. Every song is a hit. It helped Pink Floyd soar to a new level of success and popularity that hasn’t waned even though it was released 50 years ago. Prior to 1973, Pink Floyd was regarded as the best psychedelic rock … Read More
Best Online Record Stores to Grow Your Collection
Where to Buy Vinyl Records Online – Full Guide: Finding the best place to buy vinyl records online can be a minefield. Sure, there are many places to choose from, but not all online vinyl stores are made equal. A good record retailer will hand curate a selection of new or used records, often both. Many specialize in a particular … Read More
Fluance RT81+ Review – Superior Entry-Level Turntable?
Canadian-based audio brand Fluance has earned a reputation for packing unbelievable value into its products. In particular, the RT81 brought exceptional value to anyone seeking to kickstart their vinyl hobby or jump back in after re-discovering a long-lost record collection. The RT81+ adds an acrylic platter mat, adjustable feet, and Audio Technica’s new AT-VM95E cartridge to Fluance’s popular affordable turntable … Read More
Schiit Mani 2 Review – Best Budget Phono Preamp?
Since its initial release in 2014, the Mani phono preamp from Schiit Audio has gained a reputation as one of the best-sounding affordable options on the market. Fast forward to the present day, and there’s a new kid in town, the Schiit Mani 2. The latest incarnation of this much-loved phono stage promises (in the words of Schiit Audio) to … Read More