In this newly updated directory, the latest in cutting-edge audio equipment is provided, including how to choose the best audio equipment on a budget, how to get the best sound for the money, and how to set up a system for maximum performance. Revised and expanded to include all the latest audio technologies, this book is packed with expert advice how to make speakers sound up to 50 percent better at no cost, avoid the most common system set-up mistakes, and how to choose the one speaker in 50 worth owning. Among the new topics covered are streaming audio, computer-based music servers, music-management apps, wireless streaming, high-resolution digital audio. A short course on listening-room acoustics is presented and additional information on audio for home theater, multichannel audio, system set-up secrets, and what each component's specifications and measurements mean is also provided.
Contents
Foreword xvi
Preface to the Sixth Edition xviii
About the Author xx
1 What Is High-End Audio? 1
2 Choosing a High-End Audio System 7
3 Becoming a Better Listener 27
4 Preamplifiers and Phono Stages 57
5 Power and Integrated Amplifiers 81
6 Loudspeakers 117
7 Digital Source Components: DACs, Music Servers, Streaming,
Disc Players, Interfaces 173
8 Turntables, Tonearms, and Cartridges: The LP Playback System 255
10 Audio for Home Theater 317
11 Multichannel Audio 345
12 Personal Audio: Headphones, Desktop, and Mobile Audio 361
13 System Setup Secrets, Part One: Loudspeaker Placement and Room
Acoustics 381
14 System Setup Secrets, Part Two: Expert Tuning Techniques,
Accessories, Equipment Racks, and AC Power Conditioners 425
15 Specifications and Measurements 451
Appendix A: Sound and Hearing 463
Appendix B: Audio and Electronics Basics 479
Appendix C: Digital Audio Basics 503
Glossary 519
Index 559
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