The Hifi Podcast with Darren and Duncan

Duncan Taylor, Darren Myers•www.thehifipodcast.net

Hi-Fi engineer Darren Myers (Parasound) and marketing guy Duncan Taylor (YG Acoustics) discuss all things HiFi audio, covering such audiophile topics as speakers, amplifiers, DACs, preamplifiers, vinyl, cables, music, stereo soundstages, tweaks, adjustments and a whole lot more.

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Episodes

Ultra-Fi: What Is It, And Why?

Would millions of people be interested in learning about cars if Ferrari wasn’t making super cars or if Lamborghini didn’t exist? Possibly not. Their amazing achievements not only represent the top of what’s possible, but also serve to inspire all of us to devote ourselves to learning more about what makes a great car truly special. Audio is no different, and the top end of hifi audio, known commonly as “ultra-fi,” makes the same case for its existence. While many may decry the sometimes eye-pop...

Oct 14, 2020•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 7

DIY: Dreams, Dangers and the Magic of Making It Yourself

If you’ve ever looked at a calculus equation as it relates to DIY audio and wondered just how the heck is that going to correlate with the sound signature you want to achieve, you’re not alone. Darren talks about his experiences going through school to get his Electrical Engineering degree (EE), in the hopes of convincing some that an application-focused approach to audio design is completely valid and appropriate, and can sometimes lead you to a better understanding of the big picture. Making a...

Oct 07, 2020•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 6

Top 5 Ways You Can Improve Your System

In a tough hobby full of myriad choices and sometimes wanton expense, there are a range of things to think about adjusting based on what’s already there. Instead of suggesting new speakers or recommending component matching for synergy, the guys are looking at five ways a good system can be improved as it stands already. Specific approaches and ear-approved moves are mentioned which have made serious differences for Darren and Duncan in their systems, and while you may think this is a topic that...

Sep 30, 2020•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 5

How To Enjoy Being An Audiophile / How To Be Critical

Upgrades, product specifications, room problems and system deficiencies can consume the mind of the active audiophile. It can take discipline to let go of all of that and realize the beauty of what you've already got. Whether it's a visit to a friend's audio system or a friendly compliment to your own stereo, there are ways to adjust our perspectives on this craft and bring us back to what's most important: enjoying music. Now, there's nothing wrong with working on your system, but if you can't ...

Sep 26, 2020•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 4

To Balance or Not To Balance? That Is The Question

Some hifi companies, like Boulder's PS Audio, recommend that balanced connection between components is the only way to go. Other companies don't offer that option at all. Duncan and Darren explain what all the hoopla is regarding single ended versus balanced operation, bringing up some pros and cons for each and shedding light on the whole affair. From overly complex topologies to bank-breaking component cost to science-backed noise reduction, there are fine arguments on both sides. But there ma...

Sep 26, 2020•49 min•Season 1Ep. 3

Subwoofers and Why You Need One... Or Two

In audio's past, folks have tried to get along without a subwoofer or subwoofers in the mix. From modern production capabilities to the intentional limits of excellent speakers, the guys explain that subwoofers are an essential part of great speaker systems. Touching on a few makes and models out there, Darren zeroes in on what type of subwoofer drivers make the most linear - or truthful - bass. He also touches on his upcoming DIY subwoofer project and outlines his choices for that. Duncan adds ...

Sep 23, 2020•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Single Ended Triodes and Full Range Driver Speakers

Darren and Duncan break down their opinions on single ended triode amplifiers and their use with speakers with no crossover -- single driver full range speakers. Duncan talks about his DIY corner horns and his latest amplifier purchase - a Decware Mini Torii SEP (pentode) 3.9 Watt tube amplifier and how good it sounds in his new bedroom audio system. Engineer Darren explains why so much of this is good for an audiophile experience, and talks about distortion profiles, the difference between SET ...

Sep 19, 2020•50 min•Season 1Ep. 1

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