Tagged: value audio

Forget the old rule of matching speaker and amp cost dollar-for-dollar. Here's what actually decides a good pairing, and why it isn't price.

Forget topology wars. The cheapest way to get real performance from an amp is matching its power and impedance tolerance to your actual speakers.

Most system builds go sideways on purchase three, when excitement overtakes diagnosis. Here's how to work out what's actually wrong before you spend again.

Which part of a hi-fi system to buy used first for the biggest value jump, and which parts are safer bought new. A practical spending order for giant-killers.

Where should your hi-fi dollars actually go? Dave Okafor breaks down a simple budget split for speakers, amps and sources that beats most "advice."

MQA has folded and DSD never really took off. Here's a bargain-hunter's honest guide to which hi-res formats and services are actually worth paying extra for.

A software engineer's take on where DAC and streamer money actually buys sound quality, and where the curve goes flat.

Class D amps now deliver serious power for giant-killer money. Dave Okafor breaks down what you actually gain, and give up, versus solid-state and valve gear.