The Absolute Sound Podcast

Jaksot

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  Innuos Nazaré Music Streamer & Server Stack Review 13.09.2026 18min

  In this video, Tom Martin reviews the Innuos Nazaré Server & Streamer System, a stack of premium audio components that elevates your music playback experience. Tom delves into the intricacies of server streamers, their essential role in contemporary stereo setups, and how they stand apart from basic audio solutions. Join him as he discusses the critical need for minimizing noise in digital signals and the evolution of audio equipment, highlighting the importance of the source in achieving superior sound quality.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Eversolo T10 Streaming Transport Review 11.09.2026 14min

  In this video, Matt Coykendall reviews the Eversolo T10 streaming transport, showcasing its enhancements over the T8 model. Matt dives into its larger, brighter screen, upgraded internal components, and improved clocking hardware. Join him as he explores the T10's design, connectivity options, and unique features like dual M.2 slots for local storage and CD ripping capabilities. He also discusses its performance, app experience, and the critical role of firmware support, ultimately questioning if the upgrades are worth the price difference from the T8.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Octave V 70 SE Integrated Tube Amp Review 09.09.2026 13min

  In this video, Muse Kastanovich reviews the Octave V 70 SE tube integrated amplifier, exploring its features, specifications, and performance. Priced at $8,250, Muse compares it to the Audio Research I70, discussing its design, tube configuration, and sound quality. He also highlights the Super Black Box power supply's role in enhancing bass and soundstage, along with the significance of power conditioning and cable choices for achieving optimal performance.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  NAD M23 V2 Stereo Power Amplifier Review 04.09.2026 13min

  In this video, Tom Martin reviews the NAD M23 V2 Power Amplifier, a key component in his $15,000 audio system build. Tom dives into its Class D design, impressive power output, and how it pairs with the Eminent Technologies LFT-8c speakers and Wattson Madison streaming DAC. Join him as he evaluates its sound quality, focusing on clarity and low distortion across frequencies, to help you determine if the M23 V2 is the right fit for your audio setup.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Saros Audio Europa Headphone Amp & Preamp Review 02.09.2026 11min

  In this video, Matt Coykendall dives into the Saros Audio Europa tube amplifier. With its fully differential design, this amp promises to elevate your listening experience by minimizing noise and maximizing dynamic range. Priced at $8,995, the Europa serves as both a headphone amp and a preamp, featuring user-replaceable tubes and top-notch components like Lundahl transformers and VPG Z foil resistors. Matt explores how it delivers a clear, dynamic sound across various genres, challenging the notion that tube amps are only warm and soft. Plus, he points out how easy it is to switch between headphone and speaker use without any hassle.This video is sponsored by: https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/he6-remastered.html00:00 Sarrus Audio Europa01:15 Overview02:45 Design & Features05:30 Sound Quality12:00 Headphone vs. Speaker Use15:30 Is it for you?16:45 SummaryWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Ø Audio ICON 12 High Efficiency Horn Speakers Reviews 28.08.2026 18min

  Norway’s Ø Audio cast off into the hi-fi world a decade ago with the Icon two-way horn speaker. Since then, they’ve debuted a number of different models, but the two-way Icon remained at the heart of their brand. Well, that is until the company launched the redesigned Icon 12 last year, alongside a push into the American market. Priced at $25,000, this is not a speaker that’s going to be in everyone’s budget, but perhaps this speaker has something unique to say. I put these floorstanders into my system almost two months ago now and I’ll say that what on the surface might look like well-trodden ground, could just surprise you. This video is sponsored by: https://fidelityimports.com/00:00 Ø Audio ICON 12 01:4 Overview02:30 Specs & Design04:52 Set Up06:47 Sound Quality15:19 Amplifier Pairings16:20 Is it for you?17:19 Summary
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  Recordings of the Month: July Discoveries 23.08.2026 4min

  We’re changing up Recordings of the Month a bit. From time to time we’ll have some of our music-loving audio reviewers highlight one or a few recordings they’ve recently discovered. They’ll explain what the discovery is. But part of the idea is that, in the age of streaming, the problem is knowing what music exists that might be worth a try. The cost of trying is zero dollars, though of course a small investment of time is needed. But as with love, food, travel and movies, there really are no guarantees. Alright, let’s get experimental! This video is sponsored by: https://fidelityimports.com/What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved.
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  J. Sikora Aspire Turntable Review 21.08.2026 14min

  In this video, Robert Taylor reviews the J. Sikora Aspire turntable, an "entry-level" model from a Polish company renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Priced at $11,000, this turntable boasts a sturdy aluminum-and-cast-iron body, a custom DC motor, and adjustable feet for precise leveling. Robert discusses its impressive sound quality, including speed stability and low noise floor, as well as my experiences with setup and performance across various albums. Join me as we explore whether this turntable can deliver the rich audio experience you’re looking for.00:00 J. Sikora Aspire Turntable 01:30 Overview 02:15 Product Description 06:45 Sound Quality 15:00 Setup Challenges 18:30 Performance Insights 22:00 Summary What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved.
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  YG Sonja 3.2 Speaker Review 16.08.2026 25min

  YG Acoustics is a long-established manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers. They are based in Denver, Colorado, but have their research hub in Cambridge, England. Dr. Matthew Webster, their CEO and head of research, has a PhD in Astrophysics and specializes in computational modeling of mechanical and electrical systems. I was curious to see the results of this approach, which for this review is embodied in the Sonja 3.2 floorstanding speakers. Let’s take a closer look. This video is sponsored by: https://advanceparisusa.com/00:00 YG Sonja 3.201:27 Overview02:14 Product Description 07:08 Sound Quality20:23 Character24:37 Summary
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  PSB iQ2 Streaming Powered Speaker Review 14.08.2026 12min

  In this video, John Quain reviews the PSB iQ2 streaming-powered speakers, showcasing their remarkable sound quality and innovative design. With the ability to deliver deep bass through DSP, wireless connectivity, and built-in amplification, these speakers are engineered for an exceptional audio experience. Featuring a four-inch woofer and a three-quarter-inch tweeter, they provide a wide soundstage and dynamic range, making them perfect for a wide range of music genres, from classical to prog rock. Join him as he explores their performance and versatility.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  New Unison Research Amp & Preamp Review 07.08.2026 22min

  Unison research had made a bit of a name for themselves in recent years, launching attainable and high value tube hybrid integrated amplifiers under the Unico moniker, all manufactured at their factory in Treviso, Italy. Earlier this year, Unison Research launched all new flagship products in their Unico line with the Unico Pre V2 and Unico DM v2 separates. Priced at $7,500 and $11,000 respectively. Do these expensive separate successfully scale Unico value proposition to the high end market? Let's find out. This video is sponsored by: https://fidelityimports.com/collections/perlisten-audio00:00 New Unison Research Amp & Preamp01:46 Overview02:42 Unico Pre V207:14 Unico V2 Power Amp10:06 Sound Quality17:32 Phono Preamp & DAC19:22 Is it for you?20:51 Summary
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  Coastal Source EB2650 Speaker System Review 05.08.2026 14min

  When a non-audiophile tells a member of the tribe that they "really ought to get out more," they usually don't mean the subject for this video: Coastal Source EB2650 Speaker System. A loudspeaker designed for use out-of-doors.This video is sponsored by: https://gttaudio.com/00:00 Coastal Source EB265001:49 Overview04:16 Specs & Design10:19 Sound Quality13:36 Summary
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  Opera Quinta V2 Loudspeaker Review 31.07.2026 11min

  In this video, we review the Opera Quinta V2 speakers, showcasing their impressive evolution from the original Quinta. With a redesigned cabinet to minimize standing waves, increased sensitivity for easier amplifier driving, and premium materials like rosewood and leather-like finishes, these speakers are built for performance. The three-way design features custom drivers and a well-engineered crossover, delivering exceptional sound quality, imaging, and bass control for a truly dynamic audio experience.What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  The Best Orchestra Recording Ever 26.07.2026 7min

  In this video, Andrew Quint explores the immersive audio album 'The Orchestra Surrounds You,' which replicates the sonic experience of conducting a symphony orchestra. Join him as he highlights the album's realistic sound quality, achieved through advanced recording techniques and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra's performance. Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction & Overview1:30 - The Concept of Immersive Audio3:15 - Recording Techniques & Sound Quality5:00 - The Tokyo Symphony Orchestra's Performance6:45 - Spatial Audio Explained8:00 - Final Thoughts & RecommendationsWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  LAiV Crescendo CHORUS Power Amplifier Review 17.07.2026 11min

  In this video, Adrian Alexander reviews the LAiV Crescendo CHORUS power amps, exploring their affordability, build quality, and versatility in both stereo and monoblock configurations. These amplifiers offer impressive sound quality with a focus on tonal balance and soundstage depth, making them an excellent choice for music lovers who want high-end performance without breaking the bank.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction & Overview1:45 - Design & Build Quality3:30 - Stereo vs. Monoblock Configurations5:15 - Sound Quality & Performance7:00 - Upgrade Path & Future Expansion8:45 - Final ThoughtsWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Klipsch The Sevens II Active Wireless Speaker Review 15.07.2026 11min

  Join John Quain from The Absolute Sound as he takes an in-depth look at the Klipsch The Sevens II powered wireless speakers. Priced at $1,999.99 a pair, these active bookshelf monitors bridge the gap between high-res streaming convenience and classic, hard-hitting American audio performance.Developed in partnership with Onkyo, The Sevens II feature a 1-inch titanium vented tweeter paired with a Tractrix horn, a 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofer, and 200 watts of internal amplification per side. From vinyl playback to home theater integration via HDMI eARC, we put these speakers through their paces to find out exactly where they shine—and where they might be a bit too much to handle.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction & Overview2:23 - Design, Drivers, & Connectivity4:26 - Dirac Live & Control Options5:54 - Sound Quality & Volume Dynamics7:33 - Music Tests (Rock, Jazz, & Classical)10:35 - Final Verdict & ConclusionWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Matrix Audio MS-1 Streamer + DAC Review 10.07.2026 11min

  Most streamers at this price are chasing the same thing flat, neutral, maybe invisible. Those are just some of the common terms you hear people say when they're describing music streamers. Matrix built this one to do something else. Refined detail and a warm musical character both at once. And that's just how it sounds. And this is the matrix Ms1 C music streamer. This video is sponsored by: https://goebel-highend.de/00:00 Matrix Audio MS-101:50 Overview05:13 DAC06:15 Inputs & Outputs09:24 Sound Quality10:09 Is it for you?What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  $15K System - Mofi Sourcepoint 888, Rega Planar, Luxman 505Z Review 05.07.2026 19min

  For better or for worse, vinyl got me into the hobby of hi-fi and in many respects it’s still what drives my interest in equipment and fidelity. My system has evolved steadily over the years, and not always been a straight or simple path. That said, friends and fans have asked me for advice on building turntable-based systems over the years, some at the absolute entry level, and some in the high end. Well, this would be a taste of my own medicine because selecting an entire hifi system in one go is not an easy feat, but I gave it a go anyway, and you may be interested in the results...This video is sponsored by: https://rel.net00:00 $15K System01:52 Loudspeaker02:50 Turntable03:48 The System09:28 Sound Quality15:52 Is it for you?What Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Soulution 717 Power Amp Review 03.07.2026 12min

  Soulution Audio is a Swiss manufacturer of electronics and turntables. Swiss amplifier companies seem to pursue extreme engineering and this is often accompanied by extreme pricing. Let’s see what the 717 offers and why you might or might not want it. This video is sponsored by: https://www.perlistenaudio.com/products/d8is/00:00 Soulution 717 Power Amp01:28 Specs & Design04:53 Sound Quality07:37 SummaryWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved
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  Focal Mu-so Hekla All-in-one Dolby Atmos System Review 01.07.2026 14min

  In this video, Aaron Jenkins reviews the Focal Mu-so Hekla, an all-in-one sound system that promises an immersive audio experience. At $3,600, it boasts 15 speakers, 660 watts of amplification, and support for high-res audio formats. With advanced connectivity options and five listening modes, including Dolby Atmos, Aaron explores its design, performance, and how it fits into everyday life.This video is sponsored by Fidelity Imports00:00 Focal Mu-so Hekla01:20 Overview03:15 Design & Build Quality06:45 Connectivity Options09:30 Sound Performance12:00 Listening Modes14:30 SummaryWhat Is The Absolute Sound? The Absolute Sound magazine has been a leading publication in high-end audio since 1972. Since the early 2000s, The Absolute Sound has expanded to include web, newsletter, digital magazine, social media, YouTube, and Substack platforms. The Absolute Sound platforms have a global audience of over 500,000 audiophiles.Intro/Outro Music: Backed Vibes Clean - Rollin at 5 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#hifi #audiophile #theabsolutesound Copyright 2026, Nextscreen LLC, all rights reserved