My missus said to me the other day "let me get this straight you spend over £1,000 on speaker cables because you can 'hear the difference' but you can't hear me calling you from the kitchen" 🤣

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Plonk ! oh oh...

@alanpoland7688

2 жыл бұрын

IKR⁉️😂🤣😂

@richardrosetta2728

2 жыл бұрын

Try plugging one of those $5k cables into her and see if you can hear her then...

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

After the break in, it's open and airy

@mikecampbell5856

2 жыл бұрын

I have selective hearing loss too.

If you don't draw a line in hi-fi , you'll never be satisfied.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Yes Daniele, its true . people must keep in mind that this is very much a thing of the mind as its perception and fantasy at times. so make a decision how far to take it and when you reach that goal then enjoy it !!

@homelessballoon

2 жыл бұрын

Maybe the purpose for many hi-fi fanatics isn’t to become satisfied, but to get the feeling that a hunter gets?

@homelessballoon

2 жыл бұрын

@@Coneman3 Yes, that’s a good description! And as you say, we are different - and that is a benefit for all of us. I do enjoy Mikey’s attitude and what he is sharing, too!

@donk1822

2 жыл бұрын

An absolutely spot on comment Daniele, I have come to much the same conclusion. I am satisfied with Lapp power cables, 4mm Fisual OFC speaker cables, and £150 a pair interconnects for everything but the turntables, I spent a bit more on those. I have a good friend who works in the trade who has loaned me some really expensive stuff over the years. Results generally, to my ears, only a tonal shift caused by differing capacitances.

@rafalbroncel5792

2 жыл бұрын

@@donk1822 Lapp cables doesn't do anything positive to sound. They exactly same as standard cables delivered with equipment. I know because I started with them also long time ago.

I like so much the pause before "misdirected"!!! I can imagine you had in mind other words for that 😀

Hey Mikey, new to the channel. Totally agree with your prospective. Really like how you explained about the quality of the small unknowns vs the big corporates . Wanted to get your honest thoughts of Spectral. I am intrigued with this company because of the way they are so off the radar, and very rarely bring out any new products. Not even update the website (witch is hilarious to me because it looks like it was made when the internet was first introduced!). But they really show me that they care about the customers, knowing that if they pay that kind of money for gear, your product won’t be replaced or outdated anytime soon. That’s important to me. It shows me that their R&D in the products are at such a high standard that it’s hard to improve on it, especially in the short term (like 5 years or so). Your thoughts, thanks.

Back in 1995 when I was getting into tube gear, Herb Reichart advised me not to buy a tube amp using long out of production weird and obscure tubes. I've followed that bit of advice and am happy to hear you telling the KZread folks the same. Also 100% agree about not knowing WTF we're doing. I realized that one early on reading Glass Audio, Klag &%Tang, Vacuume Tube Valley, the DIY audio magazines and forums, wearing out my welcome in the HiFi Shops of yore, attending HiFi shows and club shin-dings. Meeting the enginer geeks who design build and pruduce product and know what they're doing. It's a learning experience for sure.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Look I hate to say things like you dont know shit because I know it will upset people but my intention is to prevent audio files especially new ones from chasing their tail forever. I'm consulting with a guy right now in his mid-70s who still is looking for the 3D image. I feel it's like he's been cheated. And it upsets me. So I'll make it right for the guy.

@jimovergaard1254

Жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy The updated tube are available and technology of Tube equipment of DIY should look at Audio Note Kits as well. The 3d is there from older equipment and many fetching big bucks. Ever hear and Audio Research SP-3a, still updated by the company and still the best sounding preamp they ever made. I take it you have never heard the Servo Statics, IRS, Dayton Wrights, Yamaha from the 1000M to the NS-2000 and the Century Anniversary System. Spectral was also starting and Kenwood proved the direct drive principle that only the deaf could not tell the difference. Many components are no longer even possible to make of film resistors (most of what is left will cost 10+ per piece that are still made), inductors (Goertz is an old technology and still is great today), capacitors are just lost with the better speaker units at very high dollar of copper film, Rubicon is gone and there is only one Electrolytic cap that tries to keep up with the old, Kaisai. Circuit boards of thick high quality copper and silver traces are gone except in the idiot zone. Then comes the crossovers of new megabuck systems which Griffon is great but few others know how to put them together. Tables and Arms are pure crap and hype compared to those of the 70s-80s and high end has no clue of the engineering full explanation of the flywheel effect which used to be in HS Physics.

@OCDHIFiGuy

Жыл бұрын

@@jimovergaard1254 that pretty much sums it up. ;-)

You know a great deal about stereo equipment. 20 years is a long time. I have done it since I was a schoolboy in 1978, some decades I have been preoccupied with other things or I just have not had the money. Recently especially since Covid there has been next to nothing out there I consider to be worthwhile. I'm just glad I got in there a few years back & sorted things out to a level I can be happy with. I like your frankness, there is nothing worse than listening to a so called expert who knows very little.

I consider this video to be one of the most important lessons in hifi in all of KZread. Thanks for your honesty.

@prokofievchambers8603

4 ай бұрын

So true.

OCD Hi-Fi Guy, just wanted to take a moment to let you know I really appreciate the time, effort, & honesty you put into your videos, for me it's an education. Thank you!

@OCDHIFiGuy

11 ай бұрын

Thanks Jerome, much appreciated 🙏

Great video. Looks like I have just enough power but my speakers are too small for the room. Agreed as well, that most people haven't a clue on how to spend on Hi Fi, myself included, so we go through the merry go round, hoping to strike gold. Here's a point of controversy however: I haven't heard a better CD player than the old Accuphase DP 57. It brought back the original recording; good, bad or mediocre. Since then, at least for most brands, its been ameliorating the imperfections, artificially creating a more palpable sound. I've been to Axpona and have heard great systems. ( The Stenheim speakers are wonderful to my ears anyway - but too rich for my blood though)

I agree with you and thanks for the hints about tubes. I made different experiences with cables, but it's definitely not a question of brands or price - it's just physics-based...

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

I see, sure..like the physics of AC Current on Copper foil, rather than copper wire. Physically speaking the surface area is exponentially more than in round wire and the electrons behave differently depending on how I treat the surface. among other things .. I can make a power cord that will push your midrange forward for instance. One that will lay back and sound dark and super dense. one that's open airy and effortless..

Hi, really enjoyed the video. love your passion and knowledge. do you have an opinion on australian made VAF speakers. I noticed yo have an aus made amp for main system. cheers

I year ago i replaced my ARC vt200 with two Carver M1.0t amplifiers and never looked back! The preamp is a JR Synergy 2 with BPS1. Speakers are Audiostatics es300rs’. Sacd player is an Esoteric x-03se and my pickup is a modified Lenco l75 with Van Den Hul Colibri. All components are connected by XLR. I’m a happy camper!!

Hi Mike Great video with logical advise. I agree the first step is your room If you use a great/living room you can only utilize the shape it is and what the room design is for, thus no sense going crazy on gear to fix the room. If you have the ability to improve the room and listening position I agree speakers are #1 as per placement in relation to the listening position. If you are trying to achieve a a HT solution with music listening then one needs to determine what is the most important. I happen to be one of these type people. I went with an Arcam AVR 850 Ohm Walsh 3000 for LR and a mix of other speakers for surrounds and subs. I know it isn't perfect setup for critical audio listening per music but it does a good job per what it is for that room. I am not one who likes DSP room correction though I have Dirac Live I typically only use if for HT. I have furniture carpets coffee tables etc. Is the sound stellar no per pure 2 channel audio. But it sounds good to me for the equipment and room. I do have upgraded cables mostly stuff from Shunyata and Audio Quest. Bear in mind I got these prior to seeing your videos on your cables. I think for my great room it is fine being 90% of my use is combination TV, Movie 7.1 and Direct Audio through the Arcam AVR 850. Is the DAC the best probably not but it does a good job and the Arcam does offer Direct for analog bypassing the DAC which I do occasionally listen with cassette and vinyl. I will though in the next year or so be building a new HT room which will also have more components which will be also double as a Music Listening room and will be getting components and cables specific for that 2 channel use along with HT gear. But not sharing the HT gear for two channel audio.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Gary, looks like you have a good grip on what you have going. Great choice on OHM Walsh. I actually couldn't think of a better speaker for a multipurpose room where you can't have the set up geometry of a dedicated listening room. Bottom line is if you can enjoy the system and relax and connect with the music. Happy listening!

Great subject! I have been telling my High Fi friends this stuff for years! I used to be a high end consultant for years, and when I would visit a customer who spent a fortune on audio,that stated his system sounds like shit.I would first look at the room .most were set up horrible.the second issue was bad system Matching. Bright+bright+bright= problems.your right! The best names are not the best! I saved for a Krell KSA 250 due to the rave reviews,It was the most unrealistic amp I ever had!! Period. equalization was built into it.bumped up bass, recessed miss and hard highs.i cancelled my high end magazine subscriptions,and started trusting ears and gut.(that was in the 90's) great sound is attainable at a fraction of the price.stay in the hunt,it pays off!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Chris, well lookee here, the guy who's got solid industry experience who agrees 100% with what I say the other people on this thread with the convictions don't have nearly any experience doing what you and I have done, yet they sure talk like they know what's going on don't they?

@NOVAISPERES

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy lol you don’t are sweet that is for shure but you speak the truth! 👏

And just like that...you hit home with #1. My wife is an Angel for allowing me to move the couches back and have no coffee table. 🙏

Right on Mikey! I have been at this a while building my own gear and setting it up. It is working pretty well. I know enough to know you are speaking wisdom from experience. What you do is a tough sell, because people will spend a lot on commodities but choke on value services. But average well funded people should hire you to do this. Money well spent. You are in a career that is a terrible way to make money but it is clearly your passion. Great you share that for a fee. Hire this guy.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Man, even people buying T-shirts from me helps, and to tell you the truth anyone that hires me to do their full system gets me for free. In other words the reason people should buy from me is because I am a free bonus with your gear purchase. !!

@user-od9iz9cv1w

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Absolutely. I have no talent decorating my home. So I bring in a pro. She has talent and gets the job done in a few weeks. She makes her money by getting a small cut on the furniture, carpets and lamp fixtures. Just like the store would. But in this case she is in my home and had the talent to create something special. Sure I am buying premium stuff. But I get it right the first time and I am happy with it for years. Same business model.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@user-od9iz9cv1w Yes, you understand the "Buy it once" rule. People do hire me and I make a riig forthem within thier budget and if they do this there is a 100% guarantee Ill leave you with a rig that will make 3D magic soiund. ;-) Thanks for your endorsement !

Great video. Mogami makes good value XLR cables like $50 a pair for 6ft?

🤔 I’m always conflicted with Audiophiles rules/Top list. I guess it’s because I do most of my listening in my studio. Something I can get with some I can’t.🤣👍🏽 this was very interesting.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Jeremy, Ive spent a decent amount of time in studios , If I can share with you how I see it perhaps it may help . Professional users want reliability first then accuracy as a close second. Most of the time studio music is heard in the near or midfield and you are enveloped in it , its very intimate with the performer thats being played back . You are listening for time cues and parts of the music that will make a great mix. The "boogie "factor I would call it. The concentration is on overall sonic and kick assness or profound beautyness .. In Hi Fi we are looking for an image that floats in the middle of the room and we are not usually a part of it , it happens in front of us . we want a ghostly spooky image that appears out of nowhere and places a performer in the middle of the room where in our minds eye, due to the sonic information have no problem imagining them , their location, and how well they scale out in our minds eye compared to how a live show scales out when youre there. VERY FEW rigs are capable to recreate the live event so well that if you close your eyes you can actually have the same experience of actually being at a show or event. This level of experience innately connects one to the music and the subsequent feelings of bliss as if youre tripping balls at your favorite guitarists live show while he melts steel droplets of melody off his guitar strings. Its profound and very moving . So its not the same sound at all. In fact its very different. sometime Ill have to bring a live recording to the studio to experience that. Now even with fully produced studio music the home rig still sounds like the person n is there the main key is connection with the music so your brain stops thinking in terms of critiquing sonic.

The truth hurts but the truth will set you free. Well said brother. Great video. A very educational one.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for recognizing my man , people lose thier shit when you speak the truth , dont they ?

Spot on mike that’s why now that I live in a hotel I gave up on 2ch for the time being I’m running a single ch setup put it in my chair play music crawl around on the floor until I find the best sounding spot and that’s where it goes

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

LOL< you get it Adir.... This is what the establishment Audio people will not tell you . Theyll let you spend into oblivion chasing your tail. Never once making sure what they sold you fits in your rig and room to fulfill your expectations.

Thanks for the Statement on cables!!I really hate the discussion about it. Have you heard Brinkmann gear?

Thanks, cheers. To have a worthwhile mission, such as improving the quality in the life of the people is something very good.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Dude, Im so glad that I found it in something I love to do, Its a total bonus that it hits my "giving back" thing that most of us must have at a certain age .

@zweer13

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Ok, with a hobby everythings gets in place much easily.

Hi Mike. Great advise as always. I appreciate it a lot. I'm thinking about building a system consisting of Wilson Alexxes, Ypsilon amplification and APL transport/streamer/dac. What are your thoughts on these brands? Considering also adding some of your beautiful cables too :))

@brunorivademar5356

2 жыл бұрын

Nevermind about the Wilsons. I see you don't like them that much!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Ive just never been impressed at any show ...however there was one time at CES that we had Sascha 2 and those were fantastic .. But for the most part it seems Wilson has an amazing box build, but the sonic does not ,match how robust the cabinets are made. Then again, Ive never had them in hand to set up myself , perhaps I could make them sing , who knows ? all I know is that its pretty unanimous thats its an OK speaker , just not as good as it looks in the end , and people spend a ton on them . Ypsilon is pretty good possibly great , I showed in California with a full Ypsilon rig and it sounded pretty killer to me although maybe buy them previously owned to get the best bargain. Ive got an APL HiFi DSD MR, Ill make you a sweetheart deal on if you are interested. Alexs stuff is great sounding ..

@brunorivademar5356

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Thank you for replying! And thank you for the offer too. Unfortunately I don't have the money right now. Keep up the good work my man!.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@brunorivademar5356 cheers Brother ! Just holler if you ever need anything !

Hi Mike. I have a good preamp so better not to get a Playback designs DAC if I understand you correctly. So COS D1 is the better option? Regards Jan

Comment on DACs are interesting. Pls share which DACs under $10K can do a good 3D. I for one live in a place where placing speakers evenly from a listening position won't work well because the room is not even. Also I think most of well designed class AB amps have among the lowest THD just before clipping, so in reality, I think amp should sound the best when playing loud providing that the speakers / room can handle the loudness. Problem of buying an esoteric brand name is that they do poorly when one needs to sell it.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi there, if you cannot place your speakers correctly then I cannot in good conscience recommend to you a DAC that is known for its imaging. You are unable to set up properly to receive that imaging. So stick with what you have for now until you can change the room. You think ABM's have the lowest distortion right before they clip? I've never heard of that, I will ask Jeff Rowland. The idea when buying an esoteric brand-name is to go deep the first time. Then you never need to sell it. And actually, the best names in the market command high resale. Thank you for your feedback !

your philosophy is pretty much on point. system design and shopping around is fun, isn't it? i think so, even when i'm not an expert in something. the learning along the way is fun. and product design/aesthetics is also a big part of it. that's why a fair few people here wouldn't be your ideal customers. many of them like the journey and the (illusion of?) free will that comes with (even simply dreaming about) putting 'ideal' systems together for a given budget. it would be interesting to know who the good and bad guys are out there when it comes to inexpensive components but it's quite possible that you couldn't do it because you have tasted bigger and better things and have figured that there is no hi-fi below a certain budget. or simply because you've inevitably become out of touch with the things that wouldn't be worth your time exploring. this is not being sarcastic or facetious in any way, it's just how it would be, from my observations. time is money after all and brain space is valuable. ironically, it feels like a waste, for a certain class of consumer that we've *just* missed a unicorn. like we still haven't found that guy that sorts the wheat from the chaff AND still operates at a 'little people' level for the little people and that's easily explained by the fact that you love music and sound and hi fi and you're on that journey that is way past little-people level. i would say at least provide better alternatives to the brands you diss, that come in at the same price-point, but those brands you dis are also out of some of our budgets, so that would also be a waste of time. i mean cheapaudioman is almost on the right path too but still, it's all about affiliate links and a bunch of the same popular brands that pop up everywhere, even if they are products that offer stand-out value among inexpensive items. where some designer has been granted access to the buying power of a mega company and so is able to offer decent parts in a $100 speaker, including crossover etc. yes, people might as well make money of their youtube content but really, is it necessary? i mean can't people do it purely as a hobby or for the love while also holding down a separate job that earns them enough to support their habit? i do prefer boutique brands to mass-produced stuff and believe that they offer more to the world but at the end of the day, people like you are still promoting them, selling their stuff and getting a commission of it and due to lower turnover, there are larger margins and commissions. nothing wrong with it but this always corrupts when compared to people who sell nothing at all, for instance. even if it doesn't corrupt, there will always be doubt in certain peoples' minds and if my guess is correct, that is their problem and it doesn't affect you in the slightest and at the end of the day they can decide not to engage and ultimately, it will probably be their loss. absolutely fair enough. i found you not through this vid, but after a quick search to see if anyone else could see how REL was taking the absolute p*ss, after i had just unsubscribed to jay soulsik upon watching his latest upload. it all became so clear to me, especially after checking rel's website. anyway, with your most expensive products, where do you think the money goes? would you say mainly r & d? i'm assuming that they would make their own dacs from scratch right. or if they did base them on an existing chip they would have the right to reprogram, fine tune, rebrand and basically make it indistinguishable from anything we could hunt down ourseves, yeah? like some 'miracle' speaker 'producers' give you the models of the seas or peerless drivers they use so you can basically take a short cut to getting a similar product but if i got my hands on an mpd-8, i probably wouldn't be able to open it up and hunt down most of the parts for myself huh? it wouldn't be easily reverse-engineerable and even if it was, i've already paid enough to cover any royalties for a while yeah? i'm still working on ways to design stuff, put things together and profit from it one day too. still trying to working out what the actually industry/ies will be and the model etc., which will probably take months and years. in the mean time i'll survive the way i always have and i'll be one of those people eagerly looking out for tips and tricks and shorcuts to best kept secrets, best bang-for-buck options, whispers, insider shiz and 'giant killers'. thanks for sharing some of your stuff, i look forward to sifting thru your other vids.

@PlaAwa

2 жыл бұрын

*scan-speak

Hi, just found you. I agree with much of what you said, except for #7. Older gear often had what were SOTA components when built, or in cases like Hafler's Dynaco ST70, was not well designed, but is very upgradable for less than new. I have a Threshold Stasis 2 amp. These were famous for needing 24 hours to warm up, and then was warm, aka dull/dark. I got one that was down a channel. I went through the drivers, I used Resistas for the available values, they were discounted, and Holcos for the other values. I replaced the emitter resistors with Mills non-inductive wire wound resistors, I replaced the electrolytic caps on the board with Black Gatevcaps, bypassed with good poly caps. Rather than purchasing 1K worth of output transistors, I had former Threshold tech Jon Soderberg replace the old output transistors with newer substitutes with much tighter tolerances, and closely matched, as well as new increased capacitance power supply caps. Jon said that it is the best sounding Stasis amp he had ever heard. While available, he began using Black Gates in his mods going forward. Never say never because universal negatives are nearly always wrong. A single exception makes it false. I certainly agree that this is the exception and that you are generally correct. I am sure that your Roland amps have better slew rates, but the detail masking from the old carbon resistors is gone, details are amazing, and the bass is relatively good as it is not fast and powerful. Anyway, great advice generally. Thanks for the video, will be watching more of them!

I get around the room issue where I bought maggie LRS where I pushed them back against corner walls when not in use then pull them into the room when I’ve ready to listen. They are light enough to pull out and small enough to store away.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Lemmy !! Yes, I am about to go round the track wiith LRS

Here goes my Olympica Nova III to hifishark, thanks for nothing. That's too bad, because i always dress to match my speakers:)) Great video, Mikey!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Oh Cmon Sara, you can't say that and not post a pic ! Ill bet youve got some truly Chic outfits then ! Please comment more on my vids. Youll be a breath of fresh air .. ;-) all the best !

Love your motivating Passion. I bought a nice 2011 Pioneer ELITE with everything, Mic,Manual,original remote $100 & now I am off to Buy a pair of used Turbosound inspire ip82 8" 4 Ohm Pro Loud Speakers for $200. Shweeet... I use 10 Gauge Solid Core Electrical Wire for speaker wire & 8 gauge solid core electrical wire for my 18" Subs Boom Boom Boom..

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Schveet Titz ! Hey man, I started with a Denon receiver and it wasnt the 4 or 5 series it was a 3 series. You are off and running meeboy ! Solid core for speaker cables ? that big too stiff and pain in the ass, youre better off using stranded for ease of use and its not going to sound any worse. Find silver plated copper 10AWG in Teflon insulation either get it or make it into twisted pair and let me know how much more stoked you are . Turbosound is some serious dance club kit. you'll be rocking the house !

OMG, you got me so worked up before Ugly Truth number 8, I was expecting something more than NOS vacuum tube supplies are drying up. Damn, I thought you were going to say something like we all are crazy here, yeah, not much fix for that.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

LOL, sorry for the letdown , but tubes disappearing to me sucks ...

Too many truths! Loved them all. Last one works for me daily.

Hello, Mickey. Thanks for your video. May ask you a question. Is it a good idea to buy MPD-8 DAC for headphone rig (Meze Elite now, and STAX SR-X9000 with amp in the future)? Thanks.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Dimitriy, MPD-8 is the best DAC I know of. The last DAC I'll ever buy.. There is now MPD-6 which is 95% of MPD-8 and its $9K less. If there was no MPD-8, MPD-6 would be my favorite DAC. So depends on your budget, but MPD-6 will be incredible for almost everyone ... ;-)

Hi Mikey, Just a quick question: I already have and existing Dac and only listen streaming via tidal. My Question is: Should I invest in a power amp for worth $6k and hook it up straight a away to the dac or buy $6k integrated amplifier and connect my dac?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

So you are wondering if you should use a power amp and your DAC with volume control. There is not enough information for me to answer fully. I would need to know if there is any advantage for you to have the preamp section of the Amp and want to know how good the volume control on the DAC is .. some truncate signal which is bad

Thanks for the great advice! Can you give me some quick recommendations on speakers for HT? I currently have Klipsch 5.1 (4x RF5, 1x RC3 II) set up and want to upgrade my center (RC3 II) channel because I don't like its sound, which I think translates to -> I need to get a different brand for all my speakers. Taking in account your feelings about made in China... I'm sort of interested in Warfedale EVO 4.4, Arendahl 1723, and Aperion Verus III. Any others to look at in those price ranges? Any American made? I think I want a little warmer sound and not so bright, but still with good detail. I know there are a lot of variables, but does anything come to mind? Thank you.

@OCDHIFiGuy

Жыл бұрын

Hi Mike, I'm not up to speed for HT. Not my wheelhouse I'm afraid.

Ok so I do want to spend some money on a power cable. But what component do I start with? Streamer, DAC, PreAmp or Amp. What will give me the most difference in sounds? Thanks man. You rock. I love the honesty. You say it how it is. Haha.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Pers, DAC for sure first place, and let me be the guy to sell it to you if you are willing. Audio Cable design is my main skill and ive had the Verastarr Brand of cables for 20 years. I can start you out with a $200 , 5 foot cable. next one is $600 and Ill buy the first one back . The $600 is all you'll ever need, but I do go higher.. So just email me verastarr at g mail , Ill take good care of you ... Looks like you are a MTB Shredder !! I was looking at Enduro Electric MTB's and they look sick ! I ride a Moto, and have all my life...

Your channel is great. Really informative. But regarding cables, have you, or would you, ever take part in a blind A/B comparison between cheap and expensive cables? Is there a website you can point to where such a test took place and the expensive cable won out? It seems that such tests always indicate that there is no meaningful difference.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@Coneman3 you make a very good point. Because personal perception is all that matters when you're building your own rig. So if every time I listen to my more expensive cable I am fooling myself into believing that it sounds better then it is reality in fact, it's my reality. You seem to get this. On the other hand I intend to set up a blind test with my cable versus really cheap crap one I'll bet I can pick it out seven times out of 10 I'd love to do this because the blind test is all cable haters ever talk about not saying that youre a cable hater Craig.

Point # 5 is absolutely accurate. Companies (who can afford to last for the long haul) sell way too cheaply just to gain market share, and then double or even triple prices once they are more known. If you find that company in it's early stages you will be purchasing great quality at an amazing value. I have personally done it. ( The other 8 points are valid also ) haha.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Right on bro... i dig your whip !

@01sapphireGTS

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Hello Mike: Thank you, the "clown shoes" are cool cars. I never thought you would read, let alone respond to my comment. A HiFi acquaintance of mine pushed me from a Audio Research D-100 that died, into a Vincent Audio SP-331 when nobody had heard of Vincent for the very reason you stated. He told me about it's German design, etc. I bought the amp for $975 the current model of my amp (the SP-332) has very few change in specs and sells for $2,699-2,999. I have seen the same thing with other products also. I am a very blue collar, wanna-be audiophile and can't purchase the gear you talked about here, but I think the key is to enjoy what you can afford to get, and constantly look for ways to upgrade that make financial sense. Thanks for the post ~

I love strong opinions, particularly if they're similar to my own. Subscribed!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

LOL< its great when it works that way, right ?

Thank you for keeping it real bro!

Your passion is very apparent i am very new to this hobby and have been taken by a few of your rules . Its a expensive hobby for us common folk . I don't want to continue making mistakes. I would really appreciate your insight as i have a dual purpose room i know not ideal but with two channel i also enjoy movies. I am looking yet again for a speaker and mutli channel amp suggestion

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Darren, if youd like a complete specific assessment of your rig and suggestions, I charge $150 credited to your first purchase over $2K just call me ...

I currently have B&W 802’s and have always wanted to upgrade to Wilson Watt Puppies or Sophia’s but lately I’ve been reading about Vandersteen design concepts and specifically Quattro Wood CT, which price wise is similar. My goal is to reproduce the sound not change it. It seems like this is Vandersteen goal as well. Could you comment on both? Thanks

Really like these talks. I'm in a condo. My couch (listening position is against the wall in a 11'6"x10'6" (latter being pretty open other then the kitchen island). I've had bass issues I think, I had Usher be718's with a Primaluna Dialogue 1 and rega dac. Noticed it most with that set up vs SS and smaller speakers. I prefer to buy used usually. I like 'liquid' over harshness. But I could just be speaking from lower-end experience. I do like tubes, but who knows. I do want 'magic'. Emotion. I want looks too with at least one of the pieces of gear. Budget 4k for used gear. Would you offer a consulting package for me without being here in my room?

@derekviveiros

2 жыл бұрын

O and I'm just getting into Vinyl too :) So streaming and vinyl.

@derekviveiros

2 жыл бұрын

Also have my own ripped music files in iTunes, but i did rip them all in wav, flac if needed.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@derekviveiros Yes, I can help , and save you time .. Just call me at 404 seven 6 four six two three 3 or email vera starr at g mai l

Hello , what speakers do you recommend for am Arcam avr 250 in term of power ?

A lot of companies sell fancy wires (“cables”) because the margins are ridiculous. Who wouldn’t want a piece of that action? Like printing money. Don’t be their sucker!

Wow Mike. That was impressive. The comment about tweaks is interesting. I agree with that comment. But then I thought of your Magnepan Ag upgrade which I bought from you a few years ago. It made a big difference. But I guess I wouldn’t consider that a tweak but a necessary modification. To me Maggies are great. But they are incomplete. They are basically part of a “kit” where you have to buy the parts separately (unfortunately) to me that kit includes: Maggies of your choice, the Mike Powell Ag tube/jumper upgrade, MyeStands or similar, and lastly a pair of good stereo (not HT) subs. For me those would be RELs. That is the “Maggie Kit”. Of course you need a powerful SS amp with lots of headroom for dynamics and a good speaker cable. So longer story shorter, there are tweaks and there are upgrades. Sometime the line is a little blurry. Thanks for what you do! See YA!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Richard, thanks for pointing this out and you are very clear on the distinction, I could not have said it better myself !

Hey Mikey I have a PS Audio DirectStream PerfectWave DAC and an Innuos Zen Mkiii Streamer and it sounds glorious. It’s magical. What is it that you don’t like about the PS Audio?

@matthewrond7386

2 жыл бұрын

Seriously! And there's a new PS Audio DAC coming soon? Consider me interested.

@ThreeDogShow

2 жыл бұрын

@@matthewrond7386 absolutely. Me too 🤙🏼

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@ three dogs, one man's regular is another man's magical. my regular is your magical.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Look at there is a place for PS audio and it's not with my clients we swim in different waters.

@ThreeDogShow

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy I doubt it bud.

Started my journey in hifi in the 80’s as a young kid because of my farther. My biggest pet peeve are people that poo poo equalizers. Most of us don’t have the money or the room characteristics to get the perfect system. An eq makes this happen. You can adjust accordingly.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

I like EQ and use one but Id rather do it passively , so most of the time its out and I change room acoustics and components , I feel the less EQ the better , but when needed nothing works like an EQ to fix things ...

Thank you. This is a great video. Could you give us a list of unknown small boutique Amp & speaker/manufacturers/Company’s that are just as good or better then The more popular company’s (Within different budget) Company’s That you believe are a better value then the corporate owned speakers & amplifiers/audio equipment company’s ?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, I represent the brands if I can. Go to 11stereo.com i will eventually post a list.

Hey Mikey, what format for music playback do you think is best? Cd, Sacd, Wav files, or DSD files. I’m just asking because I want to start buying music for the long term and only want to buy my music once if possible. Records aren’t my thing, that’s why I left it out. Any help would be great, thanks.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Zach, It depends on how things are recorded . If recorded digitally from the start, I like 4X DSD

Greetings from Denmark. Great video 👍 I love amps with a little flavor

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Henrik, well that's just it. A little flavor goes a long way. If audio gear was actually tuned to be perfectly flat, it would sound horrible. Are you in Copenhagen? You live in my favorite country for audio gear, along with United States of course. :-)

@henriksrensen3220

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Hi. I think Devialet amplifiers are a good example of almost totally flat/neutral sound. I have owned a Devialet expert pro amplifier, sold it after 6 months. I live in aalborg, that's the northern part of Denmark. There are so Many places in USA I would love to visit.

I got a hypex mono design power amp, and a Xindak preamp- also mono design.. I used to have my two volume pots on my power amp turned full throttle, and then fine tuned the volume on my preamp.. Now, I'm on half volume on the power amp, and I actually firmly believe, it sounds better- more relaxed ..

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

There you go, thats great. In your situation, its OK to do what you did originally without damage since you are controlling it externally like a power amp for instance, but yes, burying it allows it to distort most all the time . You are safer doing what you did and can experiment with where to set the parameters on each . Happy Listening !

@TheBodhisattvaWisdom

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy very helpful advice- thx

I watched OCD guy develop his system over the years. He's really across the good, the bad, and the ugly. Really a devoted audiophile. Thanks for sharing.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks man, I appreciate your support !

@DBTAudio

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy Mikey, I’ve scene a few of your videos and have enjoyed them. I have a few boutique components; Spatial Audio X5 speakers, HoloAudio Spring DAC 2 KTE, PrimaLuna EVO 400 preamp & amp. My system smokes, but I’m still working towards my desired sound. I agree that the big name selling hifi manufactures are not necessarily the best. Peace!

I understand the goal of the amp is to amplify the analog signal going to the speaker. I also believe the amplifier changes the sound signature of a rig drastically (probably due to being voiced with other gear that has a signature). When trying to tailor the sound of the rig I believe it is important to keep this in mind.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Stephen, I would say that your amp should not change the sound of the rig drastically, If it does, then its heavily colored. Nothing wrong with that but if you want something more true to the recording then transparency is paramount. Essentially I seek transparency in every part of the rig. When this is accomplished it puts the DAC clearly in the drivers seat as far as control of the overall sonic is concerned. The DAC is in control of the hardest thing to overcome in our rig... aside from the room of course , DAC is the piece that must convert something very unnatural into something natural. Its almost as if this goes against God in some way by having such hubris to think we can create nature out of a digital representation of such. I feel its the reason that the conversion is plagued with anomalies. How any given company handles these anomalies. Its the reason our rig sounds "Digital" or not. Most of the time there is a glare or a certain spot of harshness that we cant seem to get rid of. so with a killer DAC the problems and anomalies are over. I think its all up to the DAC to create the image , tone , density, pace, presence, realism and ultimately connection to the music.

@stephenvolker7555

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy probably at least mostly onto something with your statements regarding DAC and amplification. It might be worth noting that the server, how it is powered, and everything before the DAC is pretty important, too. I think anyone who watches your videos will catch onto that though. Without a killer DAC you're not going to get full value of that on the digital side. I've actually been going pretty hard in the Analog direction for a while. Turntables have their own set of fundamental difficulties. I do love the hobby and the journey for the sound I desire.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@stephenvolker7555 Yes, I need to dig deeper as this is the first server design to me and its held up for 5 years beating contenders, JCat card just helped and the Waversea filters. drop by for a looksie. and a listen

@stephenvolker7555

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy you know I'll take you up on that!

@franky2shoes660

2 жыл бұрын

It's called a coupling capacitor.

Thanks for saying cables matter. You can’t convince the zip cable crowd. I believe the system is only as good as its weakest link, and that includes cables. They are components as critical as the speakers or amp. Buy the best you can afford, it makes a big difference. Room treatment is also a great way to make the sound better. Everything is important.

Wholly jumpin Jesus guy... ya just collapsed all of my expectations! I'm in a position to build my very 1st dedicated stereo/theater room with appropriate treatments and you went ahead and rained down on ALL the equipment I was planning on buying. ALTHOUGH, I completely agree with you on the "corporate" angle. 1st off, I've never heard ANYTHING past 2.1 stereo! So, having been at a ton of sites and ingesting the info, I was under the assumption that I would end up with your (so called) Magic. Now I'm left thinking... should I bother at all. I haven't a clue what your income level is, but it certainly can't be where I'm at, which is a pitiful 21 bucks an hour. Which explains why all I can afford is Yamaha and Klipsch. In closing, just like to say I enjoyed how you presented yourself, spoke your mind and filled us in on how things really are. I'm 61 yrs old... and was simply hoping for a space where I can forget about everything that's wrong with the world ... and drift away in acoustic solace.

@OCDHIFiGuy

Жыл бұрын

Hey Dave, call me and I can break it down for you. You dont need much $$ and you are in the enviable position of just starting out so many things will blow you away. No need to spend a lot of dough.

Kindred Spirits! I’ve been an Audiophile since 1975 and an Audio Dealer since 2010. I’m learning new things every day! I love this hobby and helping people too! I can relate to everything you stated!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Rock on Kaplan !! Call me to shoot the shit any time ...

@zachansen8293

2 жыл бұрын

Most of this is just the same lies that you probably don't even understand why they are lies. You probably don't even understand the amount of things you tell people matter that don't.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@zachansen8293 (watch me make you look stupid right now)... Hi Zac, please show the people here what are lies that I dont understand are lies. Since you are so enlightened, please teach us your wisdom.

Great stuff, as a young audiophile (25) I’ve found most of this list to be true. I’m in the market for a new dac at $3k, I was eyeing the holo audio spring 3. Any suggestions? The dac I have now sounds fine but has that digital edge to it

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

He said dac not transport/DAC which I recommend against. CD blows chunks as far as quality. only like 50% of them sound good and there will eventually be no replacement parts as its a near dead format . SO 3K ,,,, Im getting ready to check out a new one for $2K shortly ., Let me check on it and get back. I find the actual price points at 2 then 4K. As far as may goes, Ive not heard it . Its a 5 week wait or something and I hope its not from China because they are the biggest offenders to our globe right now in every way. I could not support them by using thier HiFi gear in my rig. It would be bad karma. Find Vlad at Audio Mirror, I have not heard one yet, but it supposed to be a good piece and handbuilt in USA

@patriots7111

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy sweet thank you, I’ll check it out

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@patriots7111 rock on brother!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@Coneman3 so tell me, do you love the Chinese government? Do you want to support the communist regime? I'm pretty sure every country in the world is protesting right now against the draconian measures of beaten government mandates the whole world is repulsed at the way China runs things, and I for one don't support governments that murder whole tribes of people and enslave the others. So go on by your Chi Fi and you deal with the cognitive dissonance. So let's look at this logically. If your record label selling music, what makes more sense the expense and logistics of producing plastic media that gets sent to stores and put in inventory or computer files that cost you nothing to reproduce and that you sell for the same amount you sell a CD for. No logistics, no broken product no returns, no expense for duplication, for printing liner notes, I'd say the dummy in this scenario is the one hedging on record labels maintaining the hard road. For the last 10 years all I've been doing is converting people out of CD format very few want to stay there. My computer files where I record analog master tape to four times DSD are indistinguishable from the master tape when A/B compared. Using a tablet to choose my music is exponentially more enjoyable then my stack of 40 CDs sitting right next to my player because those are the 40 best sounding ones. Those days are over. We don't sell our collections of CDs and rely on streaming we first archived them digitally on two separate drives one to use and one for backup I store them as WAV files, which is exactly what a CD is. No difference whatsoever. Only where the file lives. And if that file lives in my computer server, I never have to get up to change CD. The same tablet goes out to the Internet and gets absolutely any music I can possibly think of and a whole lot of music I had no idea existed. Music exploration alone is reason enough to go server. Add to that the playback is coming from a flash memory that doesn't spin and have vibration/jitter. So hey you want to buy some CDs? :-)

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

The Digital "glare: Hard to get rid of without changing the DAC, the "naturalness" of music is directly related to DAC for $3K I say Exogal Comet, best value ... $2k to $2500 maybe less.

Thanks, is it possible to do a deeper dive on specific recommended / avoid tubes? In case we want to buy back up

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Theres really just a few that are hard to come by .. 805 DHT is one, the russian "super tube 6H30P -DR. 6SN7 can sound spongy or tubey ... and all of them are climbing in price

@paigewingerd5788

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy you were going to throw my rig under the bus there when you started a list off weren't you? Before the giggle? Sansui?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@paigewingerd5788 No my beautiful Bunny, I totally respect your lovely well seasoned components . ;-)

Great Video Mike :), lots of insights into this industry.

@OCDHIFiGuy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks RS !

I'm glad you stopped at 9. Whenever I see a top 10 or a top 5 list, I know that one or two of those are bogus and were included just to make it to that nice round number. Either way, thank you for your input. That was very insightful.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your feedback !

Would also wonder what are the brands you respect / admire that “we haven’t heard of” . My biggest problem is my living room has a coffee, table, a lounge chaise and 2 tape machines. I’m guessing I’m screwed in terms of getting a good image?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Jeff, just call me if you dont mind. four oh four 764 six 2 three three. Please text me a few images of the listening space and I can comment . If you have been following my vids then you know about the brands I represent and love. AGD Production SS Amps, NAT Audio Tube amps for instance.

Great video I love it. I have one question. Im in the market for a turntable and my budget is from $1200 to 2k. Im sick of my debut carbon and changing belts for 45rpm and lifting the tone arm before the needle wares out. So can you recomend something in that ball park that an auto lift and has speed switch or would that not be acceptable?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

My apology Richard, i made a decision to ignore vinyl and TT's. Ive only got so much bandwith

Hi, enjoyed the video as usual! The one thing that keeps gnawing at me is forums like ASR which keep debunking cables through measured performance. I do believe that cables make a difference but how do you explain when you can’t measure it?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Sujay, Let me put something in to perspective. We listen to music , do we not ? Bench tests that are performed using a single frequency test tone is hardly the way one would measure the ability of a cable to provide something so much more complex than a test tone. Furthermore , the cable is part of a symbiotic circuit between amplifier cable and speaker and all of them produce different results , so to try and simplify this down to a test bench and a scope or analyzer is just not how we hear things . Its like putting a Ferarri up on a lift and running tests inside the garage, then trying to conclude how it will perform on the track including ambient temp, tire compound, etc... you simply would not be able to determine how it reacts to driver input . Its an improper way to judge cables . Your ears are the measurement device. The thing as you said, it can be heard. therefore it exists... There are things that exist that can not be measured , like realism of the sound, how "real " does it sound.. connected to this is the Presence.. how present is a singer in the room ?.. Image depth or instrument layering , tonal density... how do you measure that ? You see where Im going ... testing cables with test tone and analyzer is majorly flawed.

@sujayks

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy indeed!😀

@Jeffrey91423

2 жыл бұрын

You judge with your ears

@wa2368

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy it comes down to how well the cable specs match the specs of your preamp/amp etc. An expensive cable could sound worse than a relatively cheaper cable if it is poorly spec matched to your individual components than the latter. I can demonstrate this ALL DAY LONG. So, you are incorrect about the more you pay for the cable, the better it sounds.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@wa2368 This is a very important and significant post, so please dont edit it , Id like to point something out that everyone can learn from. Lets look at how W A perceived things . My guess is you are a cable naysayer, which is fine when I started talking about cables being valid and needed you decided to take the opposite position in that moment. In fact you were thinking out your retort while I was still talking about it to the point that your ears closed and you made up what you thought I was saying , which I never in a million years would say , which is the more you pay for a cable the better it sounds. Thats a ridiculous statement . I would be a complete idiot if I said some shit like that . Lets pull NORDOST out for this example .. heres the great part about them. They TELL YOU that their Odin 2 , $35K per half meter cable is silver plated copper in extruded PET. If you know manufacturing you know that stuff is not expensive at all. And you can see how thin thier strands are as they are lined up in a row and you can see through the transparent jacket. all of them together probably make up a 14AWG. So the buyer is the stupid one, and no foul for NORDOST as they have divulged that they are throttling the piss out of the buyer. And they are not that great of cables I beat them with my designs. You see , I am committed enough that I dont just tell you something is crap and overpriced and leave you stranded, I actually design an alternative that sounds better ands costs exponentially less. I am bringing back one of my companies Legacy designs so I can offer you guys cables in the hundreds of dollars which I gave up, for selling cables in the thousands long ago. Even though my core client is a dyed in the wool audiophile with means , it does not mean I forget or turn my back on the entry level guys ..

This is the video that convinced me to give Mikey a call. Previously, I went to a buddy's house for a listening session. The next day I turned on my rig and to me it sounded like a transistor radio. I called Mikey and said I wanted the magic and he delivered it!

@OCDHIFiGuy

Жыл бұрын

That I did .... Rock on Vuch !

All points are gold! It took me a while to stop fuming my brain when some "experts" are saying that "You must spend bla, bla, bla on speakers FIRST and build your system from that point". One thing I failed to understand is if they are truly morons or if they think that everyone else is an idiot?! Room - definitely a no.1 if you intend to blow your hard earned cash on HiFi gear! If you do not have a dedicated space to listen than it's better to go with a desktop setup with a Hi-End DAC and headphones rather than blow a money for gear trying to fit between the existing furniture (and family, of course). Source (recording) is my no.2 important point. If a music you are listening is recorded as crap - no gear will be able to fix it. Cables do matter a lot but once everything else is in place. Strange science but unfortunately it does make a difference! 😆

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Yep, you got it man ! Thanks for your feedback !

Could you compare and contrast Esoteric vs Chord Dave DAC?

#5 is so true, while im a "budget hunter" i found "Aune" and never heared about them, found some reviews that sounded really good, and was really surprised how good the X8 XVIII sounds compared to similar priced known brands a real bargain at 300€ + a discrete op amp

@dornauge1995

11 ай бұрын

tho im unsure how this dac compares to 5k+ dacs :D let me know if you can say something about it x)

What would you suggest for cables for a 7.2.4 system? This is my first kind of high end system I am building but I can't decide on cables so any help and options are most appreciated.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Jason, Im happy to give free advice and support to my subscribers, so please subscribe and Ill help ...

The room is the most important followed by room treatments, then the source whether digital or analog, Speakers, amp, preamp and cables…. In that order. Cables make a difference if they have no shielding.

I love music and i play several musical instruments.... I have tried the Hi-Fi thing of fixing the room acoustics, placing the speakers and sitting in the centre... and it bores me stupid. I find myself picking up a guitar and working out the chords or using a laptop to search the net. I would much sooner listen on a vintage radiogram while doing other things like housework or DIY. Music makes me want to move... to get up on my feet and move my body in time with the music. It took me a long time to work this out.... but i enjoy my music so much more since i sold the hi-end gear.

that's why Nelson pass says "Hi-end is Entertainment i'm happy with what i learn from you Mikey thank you👊 Could you give me some advice for a not to expensive 3/4 K tube preamplifier.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Anjo, I recommend a previously owned NAT Audio symmetrical.. It should be 3500 to 4K make sure it has the latest volume control board. You may also be able to find a balanced audio technology I can't remember VK 35 or 32 I think.

@anjovandijk9797

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy how do I know if it has the latest volume control board

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@anjovandijk9797 ask the seller. If they dont know if you look under the bottom panel there willl NOT be a fat ribbon cable present.

I agree with your last point man. Hahah this is REAL!! Most think they know how to build a system and the reality is they DO NOT!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Right ?, Think about it man.. How long has it taken you ? Shit, im 20 years in, full time and Im still learning little tricks and things to do and not to do .. I cant imagine coming in fresh now and trying to even make sense of the landscape of the market and how to separate it out , just to get my bearings .... sheesh... Keep on Killin it Jay ;-)

@jaysaudiolab

2 жыл бұрын

Buying and trying it is the only way most of us learn but that costs money and losing lots too. Very few people want to understand that most forums are simply people with an opinion on items they've never owned or seen. Lots of "gurus" on the forums but yet they all own nothing of what they seem to be preaching or claim to be experts of.

@veniceog

2 жыл бұрын

@@jaysaudiolab So true. So many opinions out there based on regurgitated stuff read off the internet. Unfortunately, we have to wade through hard liner opinions from the inexperienced. Reminds me of when a classmate told me how it was to be high, without never having been.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

@@jaysaudiolab Its true, and to me I feel that the sellers keep audiophiles in a perpetual tail chase in order to keep selling the person over and over. I figure if I do the opposite, and teach people how to weed through the BS, while at the same time offering complete systems that are guaranteed to have the magic to some degree, and guarantee them results, then Im taking the bull by the horns and eliminating the drawbacks including the buy and sell ferris wheel ride. But truly thats how we learned , buy sell, lose, buy sell , lose. I figure its paying my dues in order to be the best educated seller I can. Like paying for school or something, but the main reason is so I can offer an option for people who would like to completely avoid the HiFi Game. Just be a good trustworthy seller that stokes people and the rest will fall into place. So Hey, have you had the Aries Cerat through your place ? How did it stack up sonically ? It sure looks big ..

You have really opened my eyes with this video. Last year I purchased a pair of Dynaudio Emit M20 bookshelf speakers, though I’d be interested in your opinion on this company. I’m rather impressed with the way they sound, but now just need a decent amplifier to run them to at their best. I saw a video a while ago, on what goes into the most popular speakers, the build quality and what you should be getting for your money. As an example, the Klipsch RP-600M for $1600.00AUD is poorly built with very cheap crossover parts and poor cabinet inertia for the price. The guy that does these videos does upgrades for these speakers and many others on the market, to get the best out of them. What you said about major companies that have stock shares and owned by big corporations don’t care about the quality of what they are selling, it all makes sense. They are just trying to make a big marginal profit. Beats By Dre is a perfect example, lousy sounding headphones for the price and they just happen be owned by Apple. Overpriced junk! So I think you are right, do your research, and find the small boutique companies that are not very well known. Thanks for making this video, it has really heaped me! 🙂

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hey dragonfly, are you in Melbourne by chance? If you are I can turn you on to Dr. good vibes audio, he's a dealer of mine and he's got a record shop and a hi-fi shop, his name is Martin. You can trust him for sure. Hes a good man and he knows a lot .. All the best

@benkrake3678

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy unfortunately I’m in Adelaide, South Australia and there’s only a few hifi shops in Adelaide that I can think of, and most of them are on the other side of town. Denis White is where I got my Dynaudio Emit M20’s from, and they are reasonably good there. Might have to look up the website of the Melbourne store you mentioned and check them out, see if they do interstate delivery. Always trying to find more sources for blank cassette tapes too!

@benkrake3678

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy I just found him on Facebook, looks like he has some killer setups. Also looks like he’s really into his tube amplifiers!

Absolutely brutal.. loving the video 100%

Thanks for the video. This is an important conversation. The most expensive thing in a hi-fi system is a room. If you don't have this investment, you can buy a couple of active speakers for a thousand dollars and calm down...

@OCDHIFiGuy

Ай бұрын

No way. .

What brands do you recommend for DAC’s, and network bridges? I think your right about the less known under the radar companies, 100%

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

What price point, Matt ?

@m.g4708

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy anything under 7k? Thanks

@m.g4708

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy I’m using a sonore optical rendu currently, wondered what else is out there, things are moving and improving so quickly with gear like this.

Brilliant video. I’m probably around 80% satisfied with my system as of now, but I also know my limit. While staying within my limit, hopefully I can achieve the joy I’m after in reproducing the music so it really touches my heart and takes my breath away. I’m pretty sure what I’ve gotta do to hopefully get that extra 20% or so. I’d say 15% or more of it is setting up my room differently/better, and the other 5% is just tiny upgrades to my source(s), which are 2 turntables, as you know. I know I eventually need to try some different cables also. (A talk I’ll have with you when the time comes) You’ve been a tremendous help in getting me closer to my audio bliss, and I truly appreciate you, Mikey. Thank you. Talk to you soon, my friend. 🎶✌️🔊

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hey Nick hope you're well man, we gotta get your ass on an airplane come down to visit. do it !!

Mate, you had me rolling with your reparte!

@OCDHIFiGuy

3 ай бұрын

THX !

Good advice here. Maybe for many of us just get your system sounding nice, then play well recorded music, then move on with life and don’t let yourself think you need better when you really don’t. Be content with what you have in life. Unless you win lotto then buy everything 😂

In audio. if your volume control is on "5", you are likely at 30% or les power because of the "audio taper" built into the control. Our hearing is logarithmic and so is our sound perception.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

OK great , so turn it to half volume or just over half wherever that lies on the knob, . ..What he is saying people is that if the knob goes to 10 (Mine go to 11) then 5 is not actually half when using an audio taper attenuator

So to sum it up, i'd best do room treatment and get a full Accuphase set and some great speakers?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

If you like. Its great equipment. Ive set an Accuphase complete rig up before and I liked it. The customer used TAD speakers. Room treatment is a must. Does not need to be extravagant but should have at least 2 Tube Traps by ASC..one diffusor center at front wall and youre rolling !

Agree with you about the disappearing quality tube market. I have decided to forego a beautiful tube integrated for a solid state amp to avoid tube hell.

@OCDHIFiGuy

10 ай бұрын

It's a strong position..

Just joined your website. I'm happy with my powered speakers ADR Eona, a small east European brand competed with Mayer for concert level sound. I do not believe they are around now. Speakers are simply unbelievable and I'm happy with them I'm open to improving my digital and analog pre.amp stage ie turntable and phono pre.amp , dac and regular pre.amp. how do I engage with you.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

If youre in UK< then email or some sort of video internet thing, verastarr at g ma ail is my email addy... I can respond with phone number from there.. Cheers !

Hey man. What’s your take on Rega as a company ? I know we’re not talking crazy dollars, but they seem to make solid engineered products putting sound way ahead of BS features.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

As a matter of fact I totally respect to Rega. Great products at a great price, what more can you say? Thanks for bringing the brand up I had forgotten about it.

22:47 So that's why so many people on the forums suggest a setup that's way above the original poster's budget or needs. That also happens alot on photography forums.

@williammorales8204

2 жыл бұрын

Photogs are a bit more cheapskate than hifi folks.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Did I tell ya Ive got a few rare Leica lenses for sale ?LOL JFK

You can go past the standard of the DAC. But it then requires a full custom streamer typically that is maxed out way beyond these top DACs you can buy in the stores. I have heard this, but it is very rare. And it will also most likely happen if the DAC is built, into a very good integrated amp, and you have full control over the system and room, and especially network/cables. I am talking about a 0.001% case here. I am just saying, it is possible, just very unlikely. When you are in Denmark, I invite you to this setup that I am talking about. I am sure that it is the best streamer setup in the world. Thanks for the vid.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Okie dokie, Ill take your word for it ... There are always a few exceptions to the rule .. I will be playing with something like Taiko Extreme by fall time ...

@RealHIFIHelp

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy I heard that it is most likely the best streamer that you could buy in the stores. Good luck with that, I heard good things about it.

Love it. thanks man.

Overall,,,,,this is pretty right on! I agree with a lot of it. *APPLAUDS LOUDLY"

what do you think of bryston B60 intergrade

What’s your opinion with Emotiva power amp and JBL 590 speakers set up?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Never heard those together, but Emo is a high value brand. You get a ton for your money. Plus Dan is a good, honest founder. I actually have a massive 7 channel Emo in my closet for movies. This room actually has a home theater rig hidden in the walls and closet.

Hey l bought my VAC amp and ARC LS15 pre amp back in the mid nineties They are working perfectly today Please tell me they were well made back then Mickey, great overview on the proper approach to putting together a good stereo rig no matter what your budget is Oh one reason l don't have a killer stereo rig, is my track (money pit) car!

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Jack, I need to make a machine , call me bro. I think you need a free something .. what you did Jack was to buy the right stuff , out of the chute. VAC is still great stuff and ARC was great back then, so you have the basis of a killer rig..

@Jack96993

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy A machine! Time travel?? : ) yes all in all l think l made a good choice with my VAC & ARC considering the money l had to work with I think at that time l owned the Dunlavy SC lll's for speakers Call me and we can discuss what you require I'm hoping l can get out your way within the month

@Jack96993

2 жыл бұрын

Oh l have the Maggie's. 7's now with two SVS Ultra 13's sub with their upgraded plate amps that l control with my phone I would live to get the 1.7's but just don't have the room

I am not a rich guy, neither I am a Audiophile. However, I love to listen to good music. I have a Mac MA 7900 and need to upgrade my Altec Lansing 510 speakers. My Audio guy is recommending the Focal Kanta 2. I have a Oppo 103 blue ray player and a clear audio turn table. Need your guidance.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

If you are buying the Focal at half price OK, but then they will sound too bright most likely . Nobody can recommend speakers without knowing evetrything about your system and your room .

To enjoy your hi fi system you have to have a dedicated room. The room you choose must have a balance of absorbed and reflective surfaces. Many people today buy speakers based on their looks and not by their sound.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Rob from Oz, I'd say I could enjoy hi-fi without a dedicated room, but to get the best out of your hi-fi yes absolutely you need a dedicated room. You could not be more correct about people buying speakers based on looks. They will see something and say I've gotta have that, and they don't even care to find out if those speakers will even work in their room. This is why I think it's foolish to tell people that are relatively new to this to trust their own ears and figure out their own components and speakers you'll chase your tail for 10 years.

@alanpoland7688

2 жыл бұрын

Buying speakers BECAUSE OF THE WAY THEY L🤔🤔K⁉️ W T H … S E R I O U S L Y⁉️ I wonder how well their couch sounds??? Lol

@LA-db9xj

2 жыл бұрын

So according to you. If you don't have a "dedicated room"...you shouldn't bother even trying. Too bad I didn't hear from you years ago before I spent all of this money!

Don’t agree with everything you said here, but I believe in you and your earnest and knowledgeable and expert point of view and perspective. Thank you for this

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Fair enough, have a great evening thanks for the feedback . Make sure you heard me correctly as well. Like I never said if you pay more for cables they will sound better. cheers

I'm looking for 4 15 in subwoofers that I can run sealed that will yield excellent transient response and be lightweight with great musicality and efficiency any recommendations?

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Rythmik Audio servo subs

@johnnycorn7225

2 жыл бұрын

@@OCDHIFiGuy checking them out now I appreciate it

What's wrong with Mogami cable or Canare for that matter, hasn't it been in use for decades in studios? I use it exclusively for balanced and unbalanced cabling in my system and in my opinion it doesn't colour the sound, just tells it as it is. But I might be wrong.

@OCDHIFiGuy

2 жыл бұрын

Hi David, there's nothing wrong with either of them in fact they are industry standard meaning they do everything by the book. We go way outside of the book with our designs. It's just another way to tailor our systems to how we like. You can hear a difference if you use a foil as a conductor instead of a round wire even more so if it's silver foil. So again nothing wrong with the industry standard.

Yes! Please have cable playback. It will be awesome. Let that cool off the whole argument. 😬

I was in the audio business for almost 3 decades and I agree with some of these things. The most important part of your system is your room. I totally agree that is a fact. The 3000 $ dac is not a fact . Just like you said later in this video I have heard a custom dac made by a friend of mine who is a designer for several high end companies that can make a DAC for sub 1 k that would blow your mind. I would not call it and ugly truth but it is still a bit of personal taste that can make or ruin a system.

This is a very high value message. Rock on ✊🏼

@OCDHIFiGuy

3 ай бұрын

Thanks !! Back atcha !