Name: Room Acoustics for hifi systems and a pleasant atmosphere @PearlAcoustics
Uploaded: 2026-09-21T08:17:00-05:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: Room Acoustics for hifi systems and a pleasant atmosphere

Room Acoustics for hifi systems and a pleasant atmosphere

Pearl Acoustics 2026-09-21 | Room Acoustics for hifi systems and a pleasant atmosphere

Brian Eno: Ambient 1 - Music for Airports. The creation of a totally new genre in music.

Pearl Acoustics 2025-09-29 | When the composer and music producer Brian Eno had to suffer intolerable 'muzak' in an airport departure lounge, while waiting for his flight home back in the 1970's, he concluded that there must be something better to fill the void. The result was the creation of a totally new genre of music which he called 'Ambient'. Designed to be played in any circumstance and not requiring the intellectual participation of the listener, unless desired, this album 'Ambient 1 - Music for Airports, was the first LP in the new genre and set a ball rolling that is very much alive, 47 years later.
In this video I explore the life of Brian Eno and this fascinating composition and recording.

00:00 - Title sequence
00:26 - Introduction to the topic & context
03:27 - Brian Eno, a brief synopsis
06:58 - Ambient 1 - Music for Airports
13:58 - Track 1 (1/1)
18:03 - Track 2 (2/1
21:19 - Track 3 (1/2)
24:41 - Track 4 (2/2)

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 7040,
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: Mogami & AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavaliere microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 Post production monitoring: Neumann KH120 / 750 with SMSL D400EX Dac driven by SPL Phonitor 2
More about Pearl Acoustics:

Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians, producers or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Phono Cartridges Pt. 1. HANA: In-depth review with downloadable sound samples

Pearl Acoustics 2025-09-15 | The brand Hana seemed to rise from nowhere. Since their first product launch of the EL/EH and SL/SH in 2016, they have become one of the most popular choices of moving coil cartridges today. In this video I talk about the entire range and offer you real sound clips (see below) for you to listen to, assess and compare. So you can choose which is best for you.

Topics covered:
00:00 – Intro
00:29 – Introduction to the series, how I test and assess etc.
04:58 – Introduction to Hana, the company its origins etc.
08:28 – SL Mono, SL / SH Mk ll (and EL & EH)
09:15 – ML / MH
24:34 – Umami Blue & Red

Content Links:
Link to Hana sound samples:
pearlacoustics.com/product/hana-cartridges-sound-samples
Link to the featured turntable by Connected Fidelity & their 'TT hub':
connected-fidelity.com/tt-hub-turntable-from-connected-fidelity
Link to the Gold Note PH-1000 video:
youtu.be/FVwQqGDiJV0
Link to Hana websites:
Hana website: hanacartridges.com
Hana UK: hana-cartridges.co.uk
Spottify link to intro and outro music:
‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians, producers or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Beethoven 7th. Symphony: Six recordings, one masterpiece. Discover its haunting beauty

Pearl Acoustics 2025-09-01 | Beethoven's 7th is a masterpiece so beautiful, that, in its second movement time seems to stand still. Give me ten minutes, and I'll prove it to you. ;-)
In this video, I share some background on the man, his life at the time of composing this great work, and play excerpts from 6 great recordings. From Rattle to Bernstein and Giulini to Kleiber. Which one does it for you?

Topics covered:
00:00 – Introduction
02:08 – Beethoven and his life at the time of the symphony' composition
10:30 – 1st. Movement: Poco sostenuto – Vivace
27:39 – 2nd. Movement: Allegretto
46:23 – 3rd. Movement: Presto – Assai meno presto
54:33 – 4th. Movement: Allegro con brio
Recordings covered in this video:
Osmo Vanska – Minnesota Orchestra on the BIS label. on CD and SACD
Carlos Kleiber – Wiener Philharmoniker on Deutsche Grammophon (1975)
Sir Simon Rattle – Wiener Philharmoniker on Warner Classics (2002)
Leonard Bernstein- Weiner Philharmoniker on Deutsche Grammophon (1988)
Jos Van Immerseel – Anima Eterna (2008)
Carlo Giulini – La Scala Philharmonic on Sony Classical (1992)

Content Links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
Link to the 'Immortal Beloved' letter:
lvanbeethoven.wordpress.com/2012/07/08/the-immortal-beloved-letters-200-hundred-years-on

Equipment used in this video:
Playback (where applicable):
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 7040
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: Mogami & AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6
Post production monitoring:
Neumann KH120 / 750 with SMSL D400EX Dac driven by SPL Phonitor 2

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians, producers or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Gold Note PH-1000 -The reference level Phonostage for serious vinyl lovers

Pearl Acoustics 2025-08-18 | With a new series of videos coming up on phono cartridges, I needed a phonostage that could handle more than one tone arm set up at once. A phono preamplifier that could be configured easily (from the front) - but also sound absolutely as good as it gets: low noise, neutral (let the cartridges sing), and output balanced, so they play back at exactly the same volume for comparative switching.
As you will see, my journey into the world of Gold Note and into this piece of equipment specifically, has brought up many surprises. Enjoy!

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
04:04 - The story of Gold Note
10:09 - The PH 5 / 10 & the PH-1000
31:45 - How does it sound?

Links to:
What Phono Preamplifier (Part 1): youtu.be/C-mbkiVBQ9I
What Phono Preamplifier (Part 2 - with sound samples): youtu.be/Db5w3VqZiSU
Download the sound samples from Part 2 here: (named phono preamplifiers)
pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pres-open
Blind test: pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pre-amps-blind-test-file-downloads

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians, producers or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Beyoncé: Cowboy Carter. A decade defining, double album classic

Pearl Acoustics 2025-08-04 | I was sceptical about this work when it was first released, especially because of all the hype around it. But it has grown on me, and I now I see it for what it truly is. A decade, if not century, defining classic. Building on so many genres and influences, Beyoncé and her amazing co-producers and musicians have produced a giant of a work that can stand up against the best. If the Beatles double 'white album' helped define them, then maybe Cowboy Carter will do the same for Beyoncé? They both explore an incredibly eclectic mix of genres, and Beyoncé, like The Beatles, nailed each and everyone of them, making each 'her own'. Enjoy.

Topics covered:
00:00 – Intro
04:20 - Who is Beyoncé?
07:05 - The album Cowboy Carter
18:25 - American Requiem
21:06 - Blackbird
22:49 - 16 Carriages
26:05 - Protector
28:45 - Smoke Hour
29:50 - Texas Hold ‘Em
31:35 - Bodyguard
33:41 - Dolly P
34:11 - Jolene
35:04 - Daughter
36:58 - Spaghetti
39:24 - Alligator Tears
42:30 - ll Most wanted
47:15 - Levii’s Jeans
49:28 - Flamenco
50:59 - The Linda Martell Show
52:20 - Ya Ya
56:12 - Desert Eagle
57:20 - River Dance
57:30 - ll Hands ll Heaven
58:36 - Tyrant
1:00:15 - Sweet Honey Bucking
1:01:12 - Amen

Content Links:
Stevie Nicks' Landslide: youtu.be/WM7-PYtXtJM?si=vQ_iKysg6Em2HnhG
Our intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Streamer: Volumio Rivo+
Preamplifier / Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Power amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 7040
Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Video & Sound Recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 Post production monitoring: Neumann KH120 / 750 with SMSL D400EX Dac driven by SPL Phonitor 2

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians, producers or companies featured in this video.
All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

The Perfect Power Amplifier Pt.3: Introducing the Pearl Acoustics 7040

Pearl Acoustics 2025-07-21 | Back in February 2023, I came to the conclusion that if we assume what the amplifier designer, Bruno Putzeys, says is true - i.e. that the output of his purify amplifier module is 'perfect' (in that it puts out exactly what comes in, except at a higher voltage) then it should sound perfect. My conclusion was, like for many others, it might be perfect but it lacked an emotional engagement that I could not quite put my finger on. Two years later, the Pearl Acoustics design team believe they have cracked the code. In this video, I explore the results and where we are today with this brand new amplifier.

Content Links:
The Perfect Power Amplifier Pt. 1: youtu.be/OAP158UkB6o
The Perfect Power Amplifier Pt. 2 (Interview with Bruno Putzeys, Hypex, Purifi, Kii loudspeakers):
youtu.be/XmLYLIDkNmM

Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Felix Mendelssohn: Piano Trio No. 1 Op 49. The most performed chamber work of all time?

Pearl Acoustics 2025-07-07 | When Felix Mendelssohn completed this work in September 1839, he couldn't have known just how popular it would become. Over 180 years later, it is one of the go to concert program choices of every classical music student wanting to start a chamber career. Its extremely challenging piano part, forms a kind of rites of passage for every serious pianist. But among the complexity lies a truly beautiful masterwork that continues to delight audiences all around the world.
In this video, I explore eight recordings of the work; from young, recently formed ensembles to the world's most famous and experienced musicians. I also give a brief overview on the composer and his life, and some background on the work itself. Enjoy.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
02:02 - Who was Felix Mendelssohn?
08:30 - The Piano Trio No. 1 in Dminor Op 49
11:10 - 1st Movement comparisons
31:30 - 2nd Movement comparisons
44:38 - 3rd Movement comparisons
48:48 - 4th. Movement comparisons
54:11 - Conclusions

Recordings mentioned / featured:
Florestan Trio - 2005, Hyperion
The London Piano Trio – 2012, Guild
Grumiaux, Fournier, Magaloff - 1972 Arkadia
Van Baerle Trio - 2014, Challenge Classics
Bell, Isserlis, Denk Trio - 2024, Sony Classical
Fischer, Gilad, Müller-Schott - 2006, Pentatone
Trio Wanderer – 2007, Harmonia Mundi
Yo Yo Ma, Perlman, Ax - 2010, Sony Classical

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics Model One - SG
Preamplifier / Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 7040
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2-
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics, Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest & Mogami (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording: Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6
Post production monitoring:
Neumann KH120 / 750 with SMSL D400EX Dac driven by SPL Phonitor 2

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

The Art of Streaming: A journey towards Volumios Rivo Plus

Pearl Acoustics 2025-06-23 | Streaming is so convenient, but selecting the right method can be complex and confusing. In this video I not only talk about the Rivo Plus from Volumio and its development, design and features, but I also look at the history of streaming; give an overview of how streaming works and what a streamer actually does. And then, why I finally chose for the Rivo Plus over the Bluesound Node, Sonos Connect and the Matrix Audio Sabre 3. Check out the chapters below to jump to a section you might be interested in, or sit back and relax and follow my journey into the world of streaming. Enjoy!

00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - My first impressions of what streaming could be
03:15 - The early days of Spotify
05:03 - The Sonos Connect box at Abbey Road Studios
08:57 - Introduction to the Bluesound Node
10:23 - Bluesound Node software & playlist
11:36 - The Matrix Audio X Sabre 3
12:33 - The Rivo Plus - Volumio its development, history and design choices
17:46 - A short word on sustainability
20:15 - Inside the Rivo Plus & the Lineo5 power supply
22:28 - The Streaming Process explained
22:49 - back to the inside and the Arm processor & the different outputs
27:26 - A tour of the Rivo Plus
29:00 - How does it sound?

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our new amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/product/7040-power-amplifier

Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.

All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Jackson Browne: For Everyman. A 2nd. album masterpiece

Pearl Acoustics 2025-06-09 | In 1973, Jackson Browne released this, his second album. With him as principle song writer and producer, he manages to capture a period of change in his life that is so profound, and yet at times funny, that I believe this album to be a true masterpiece. Surrounded by so many gifted musicians, each at the top of their game, the album gives a feeling of what it must have been like to be a part of Jackson Browne's scene, at that time.
Expertly engineered by John Haeny, Al Schmitt, Kent Nebergall and Rick Tarantini, with mixing by Al Schmitt and mastering by Greg Ladanyi, I believe this album is (in the words of the critic Janet Maslin) to be both "intimate and universal" all at the same time.
Enjoy!

00:00 - Introduction
00:29 - Background and context to me and the album
05:50 - Take it Easy
14:17 - Our Lady of the Well
16:39 - Colors of the Sun
23:39 - I thought I was a Child
27:42 - These Days
33:50 - Red Neck Friend
37:50 - The Times You’ve Come
44:36 - Ready or Not
49:40 - Sing My Songs To Me
56:20 - For Everyman

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden SPA-4
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording:
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts and figures are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Fosi i5 headphones - an unexpected surprise!

Pearl Acoustics 2025-05-26 | I don't usually review headphones, but these turned up on my doorstep last week and curiosity got the better of me!

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Time Out - The Dave Brubeck Quartet. A masterpiece that changed jazz forever

Pearl Acoustics 2025-04-14 | In this video, I explore the album 'Time Out', the band who made it and the engineers who recorded it. I play excerpts to illustrate its genius and to convince, even the most cynical, that this truly is a great work of art, a great recording.
Listening to Time Out today, it's easy to forget how progressive and unique it was back in 1959 when it was recorded. Not only did it sell over 1 million copies, it turned cool jazz mainstream, but in many ways this incredibly innovative and brilliantly performed album is way more than that. Within the structure and confines of its strict rhythmic patterns, the four musicians are each given the space to extemporize and show off their virtuosity and sheer musicality. Like J.S. Bach or even early Mozart, it is a beautifully evocative work, constructed with the knowledge of classical forms.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:33 - The big question - does the structure smother the emotive passion?
04:54 - The recording process
12:00 - The musicians
12:08 - Dave Brubeck
13:55 - Paul Desmond
16:01 - Eugene Wright
17:18 - Joe Morello
20:17 - Playing the album Time Out
20:37 - Blue Rondo à la Turk
29:34 - Strange Meadow Lark
35:37 - Take Five
40:44 - Three to Get Ready
42:59 - Kathy's Waltz
47:47- Everybody's Jumpin'
49:25 - Pick Up Sticks

Links:
Rêverie Orientale for clarinet and string quartet, composed by Alexander Glazunov (1865-1936), performed by the Firgun Ensemble - 2018
Stereo version - 88.2/24bit (download or play from our website): shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/reverie-orientale-clarinet-string-quartet-stereo
Mono version - YouTube video: youtu.be/eeAg4YwBAFk

Examples of Turkish 9/8 rhythms:
youtube.com/watch?v=bjST5xyxtqQ&t=92s
Link to example: Karislama: (famous wedding dance) tidal.com/browse/track/62278262?u
Rompi Rompi (often used in Belly dancing) play into :01:00 tidal.com/browse/track/46499044?u

Joe Morello Drum Solos:
youtube.com/watch?v=dksFL9VXnCs (1:30 in)
Castillion Drums live (from 2:11 in): youtube.com/watch?v=ULLvIlgl20Q

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden SPA-4
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the musicians or companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Regional HiFi (Pt.1): North America Vs the UK - who makes the best gear?

Pearl Acoustics 2025-03-24 | It's so easy to think of the HiFi brands we know and love as being globally famous, but in this video I will explore the massive differences in product recognition between the loudspeaker, turntable and amplifier manufacturers from North America and the UK. I will also discuss the reasons for these historical differences, while looking ahead. Asking, who are the manufacturers we should be focusing on today?

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
06:49 - Loudspeakers
13:17 - Amplifiers
20:38 - Turntables
26:48 - Closing thoughts

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment on display in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Denefrips Ponthus 15th.
Pearl Acoustics amplifier ‘blind’ switching unit
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 170, Sugden SPA-4, Decware Torri MkV
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

What Phono Pre-amplifier (Pt 2.) - which of the seven sounds best?

Pearl Acoustics 2025-02-24 | In this video (Part 2), I play a direct cut LP recording through each of the seven phono pre-amplifiers so you can choose which one you like the sound of best. In addition, you can download the original 24bit recordings from our website, which are longer than in the video (link below), and choose to do either a blind test or simply go for the open, named files.
As discussed in Part 1. (youtu.be/C-mbkiVBQ9I) phono pre-amplifiers come in all types, shapes and sizes from thousands of EURO/$ to a mere 100! But they each have a crucial job to do. Not only do they have to amplify the tiniest voltage to ensure that what we hear is as near as possible to what the pickup cartridge is putting out, they also have to apply an RIAA correction filter. But like studio microphone pre-amplifiers, they can also add distortion and colouration and (in the case of phono pre-amplifiers) even affect the soundstage. Go to part one, to follow my journey through my selection process.

Links to 24bit sound sample comparisons: (longer than in the video)
(OPEN/identified)
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pres-open
(BLIND)
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pre-amps-blind-test-file-downloads

What Phono Pre-amplifier Pt. 1.: youtu.be/C-mbkiVBQ9I

Share with us your feedback - which phono pre-amplifier did you like best and why?
pearlacoustics.wufoo.com/forms/r1yyxlv91lf8exl

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:29 - The process
02:42 - Rega Aria
03:18 - Rega Aura
03:55 - Sugden PA-4
04:31 - Luxman E250
05:07 - SPL Phonos
05:44 - Graham Slee Accession MC
06:20 - Fosi Audio Box X5

Music links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
Link to record company, where you can purchase the direct cut recording of ‘I’ve got you under my skin’ by Cole Porter, 1938, performed by Clare Teal & the Syd Lawrence Orchestra:
Chasing the Dragon Records: chasingthedragon.co.uk

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Turntable: Rega NAIA with Aphelion 2 cartridge
Phono pre-amplifiers: Rega Aria, Rega Aura, Sugden PA-4, Luxman E250, SPL Phonos, Graham Slee Accession MC, Fosi Audio Box X5
Amplifier: PassLabs Int 25
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video.

All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

What Phono Pre-amplifier (Pt.1) - which of my seven would you choose?

Pearl Acoustics 2025-02-24 | Phono pre-amplifiers have a crucial job to do. They have to amplify the tiniest voltage to ensure that what we hear is as near as possible to what the pickup cartridge is putting out, and then apply an RIAA correction filter. But like studio microphone pre-amplifiers, they can also add distortion and colouration and (in the case of phono pre-amplifiers) even affect the soundstage. In addition, some offer additional features. In this video you can follow me on my journey to choosing a new phono pre-amplifier.
In Pt2. (youtu.be/Db5w3VqZiSU) I play some sound samples through each of the phono pre-amplifiers for you to compare. You can also download the original 24bit recordings from our website (link below), and choose to do either a blind test or decide for to go for the open, named files.

Content links:
What Phono Pre-amplifier Pt. 2 (the sound clip comparisons): youtu.be/Db5w3VqZiSU
Phono pre-amplifier 24bit download sound sample files (OPEN/identified comparison):
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pres-open
Phono pre-amplifier 24bit download sound sample files (BLIND comparison):
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/seven-phono-pre-amps-blind-test-file-downloads

Share with us your feedback - which phono pre-amplifier did you like best and why?
pearlacoustics.wufoo.com/forms/r1yyxlv91lf8exl

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
06:14 - Rega Aria
10:31 - Rega Aura
16:30 - Sugden PA-4
22:03 - RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) correction curve
24:06 - Luxman E250
30:25 - SPL Phonos
35:00 - Graham Slee Accession MC
40:49 - Fosi Audio Box X5
44:44 - Conclusion

Mentioned videos:
Ten iconic turntables: youtu.be/VCAhllcc_Ew
Rega P10 vs Rega NAIA: youtu.be/9qVIjIUhb-4

Music links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
Link to record company, where you can purchase the direct cut recording of ‘I’ve got you under my skin’ by Cole Porter, 1938, performed by Clare Teal & the Syd Lawrence Orchestra:
Chasing the Dragon Records: chasingthedragon.co.uk

Equipment discussed in this video:
Playback:
Turntable: Rega NAIA with Aphelion 2 cartridge
Phono pre-amplifiers: Rega Aria, Rega Aura, Sugden PA-4, Luxman E250, SPL Phonos, Graham Slee Accession MC, Fosi Audio Box X5
Amplifier: PassLabs Int 25
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: Rega RCA Phono cables (as supplied with their Aura phono pre-amplifier)

Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video.

All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Dvorak Symphony No. 9, From the New World - An inspirational masterpiece

Pearl Acoustics 2025-02-10 | In this video I compare six different recoding of this great work. I have deliberately chosen versions that vary widely in their interpretation of, tempo, dynamics, phrasing and even orchestral positioning. In addition, I look at the recording qualities and the challenges that all conductors face when taking on this work. I also give a very brief history of the composer and how the work came into being.

This masterful work has so much to offer all music lovers, even those who are not really 'into' classical music.

Topics covered:
00:00 – Introduction
02:08 - A brief look at the life of Antonin Dvorak
08:39 - Symphony No. 9, 'From The New World' (structure & choice of recordings)
11:22 - 1st. Movement - Adagio - Allegro molto
27:10 - 2nd. Movement - Largo
47:22 - 3rd. Movement - Scherzo
57:49 - 4th. Movement - Finale

My selection of recordings:
Rudolph Kempe: Berlin Philharmonic (1958 – Stereo 1960) HMV
Leonard Bernstein: New York Philharmonic (1962) CBS / Columbia
Riccardo Muti: New Philharmonia Orchestra (1976) – EMI / HMV
Jiří Bělohlávek: Czech Philharmonic Orchestra (1990) – Suprafon
Paavo Jaarvi: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (1994) Durkin Hayes / later RPO label
Gustavo Dudamel: Los Angelese Philharmonic (2022) – Deutche Grammophon

Content Links: (Tidal)
Paavo Jarvi: tidal.com/browse/track/8747657?u
Rudolph Kempe: tidal.com/browse/track/137752989?u
Leonard Bernstein: tidal.com/browse/track/1786948?u
Riccardo Muti: tidal.com/browse/track/190541221?u
Jiří Bělohlávek: tidal.com/browse/track/31167628?u
Gustave Dudamel: tidal.com/browse/track/239092576?u

(Spotify) Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

Equipment used in this video:
Playback (where applicable):
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: PassLabs Int25
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

The New QUAD 33/303 Vs. the Original: How does it perform?

Pearl Acoustics 2025-02-03 | I must admit I was quite excited when I first saw the images of the new QUAD 33/303 but I was worried that it would be some kind of 'retro' gimmick. In this video, I explore this new reinvention of QUAD's extremely successful classic, and even offer a sound clip at the end where you can compare the performance of the two. The sound clips are also available for free download via our website, to hear in 48K/24Bit studio quality (straight from my recording device). See 'Content Links' section below. Enjoy. Harley

Erratum: I mention the original 33 had 'tilt' functionality. Since filming I discovered that it had the predecessor to it, referred to as 'Slope'. Apologies for any confusion.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Intro
00:40 - The Old QUAD 33/303
07:28 - The New QUAD 33/303
29:18 - Sound clips
30:25 - Closing and credits

Content Links:
Sound sample links:
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/old-vs-new-33-303

Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
QUAD HiFi: quad-hifi.co.uk

Equipment used in this video:
Playback (where applicable):
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Dac: Denefrips Pontus 15th. Edition
Pre-Amplifier: QUAD 33 (Old and New)
Amplifier: QUAD 303 (Old and New)
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Video recording
Sony FX30: (sorry for poor quality, I had it on the wrong setting)!
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter, or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

QUAD Artera pre/power: Why this is a hidden gem

Pearl Acoustics 2025-01-27 | Ever so often, a piece of equipment seems to go under the radar. Sometimes it's down to the timing of its launch (when too many excellent products come on line at the same time), other times it's for a whole variety of reasons: too modern, too unconventional, too low priced, lack of shelf space in local retailers, to name but a few. For me, The QUAD Artera Pre and Stereo / Mono blocks are a very good example of this. In this video, I explore this duo and try to give them context in a very crowded market.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Intro
03:35 - A Short History of QUAD
09:23 - The QUAD Artera Pre
19:05 - The QUAD Artera Mono / Stereo

Content Links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
QUAD HiFi: quad-hifi.co.uk

Video recording
Sony FX30
Sound Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated
About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Erratum: At 07:42 the photo shown is of Peter J Walker with Lord Gowrie and not his son, as mentioned in the video.

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video. Please note: all facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein. Thank you.

Joni Mitchell - Blue

Pearl Acoustics 2025-01-13 | In 2000 the New York Times nominated this album as one of the 25 albums that represented "turning points and pinnacles in 20th-century popular music". And as recently as 2020, Rolling Stone magazine ranked this album at No.3 of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
Over the last 50 years, I have shared multiple key life moments to the soundtrack of this masterpiece. Its notoriety proves that, through it, Joni Mitchell truly touches souls, - 'well surely (she) touched mine'...
In this video, I explore the album and talk a little about Joni Mitchell, her life and work, in the hope that someone may discover 'Blue' and thus, Joni Mitchell herself, perhaps for the first time.
Harley Lovegrove
Enjoy.

Topics covered:
00:00 – Intro
01:48 - The life and times of Joni Mitchell
10:41 - The album and its songs

Link:
Joni Mitchell 'Blue' (Spotify):
open.spotify.com/album/1vz94WpXDVYIEGja8cjFNa?si=7f1LIFvdQzmyqNDym4NjPg
Joni Mitchell 'Blue' (Qobuz):
open.qobuz.com/album/0603497921805
Video of Joni Mitchell performing 'Case of You' live with Brandi Carlile at the Newport Festival in 2023: youtube.com/watch?v=9evpH6yjxrI

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden SPA-4
Cables:
Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Video recording equipment: Sony FX30
Sound recording: Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

HiFi for beginners: What to recommend for a first time buyer?

Pearl Acoustics 2024-12-30 | In this video, I explore the options for first time buyers to HiFi. Possibly for their first steps away from smartphones and headphone listening to two channel listening? With the help of my colleague Ajay Verma, we look at some alternatives and invite you to recommend systems of your own.

FYI: The competition is now closed. Thank you to everyone who nominated someone,. We had so many very deserving entries, it was so hard to chose from over 150 submissions from all around the world. However, the team and I, are happy to say that we have found three very deserving people for the systems.
Thanks everyone,
Harley.

Content Links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Messiah: George Frederic Handel (1685-1759)

Pearl Acoustics 2024-12-16 | First performed in 1742, in many ways, The Messiah turned out to be Handel's most famous and often played work. In this video, I take a look his life, his travels and his compositions, and play a selection of highly regarded recordings of this masterpiece.

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Power Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 170
CD Player (Transport): Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

Content Links:
Spotify Link to intro & outro music:
‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d
Zadok the Priest: open.spotify.com/track/2JoH4WelznXZHJeWxu8ALt?si=8c65a02e64ce4570
My three favourite versions:
The English Concert, Trevor Pinnock: 1998 Archiv
open.spotify.com/album/6HkDzk6GzgLTc0OqCh1fu4?si=aX4zK_9oRTey9ZnhkIfyRQ
Dunedin Consort • John Butt (Dublin Version, 1742) released on Linn records 2006
open.spotify.com/album/5OIB6PuKrzZMNKj4GI3jQW?si=b3eRnBijTimO0ry29B4R_g
Britten Symphonia with Polophony conducted by Stephen Lytton: 2009 on Hyperion
open.spotify.com/album/4tf4EkTjkrbmcRDsJI5A50?si=MF__dko5QJWAFwvRE93jCg

Other featured versions (Symphony only):
The English Concert – John Nelson
open.spotify.com/album/7L9hDTUKox7BP3VOgeX5ov?si=Rv4G1hTxRAKaL-K4xWttlg
London Philharmonic – Karl Richter
open.spotify.com/album/77gJvkWpJ7UlDf6SGaDrFP?si=bfj8MPlPR2WVElItyAwvzg
The Philharmonia Orchestra – Otto Klemperer
open.spotify.com/album/0ioDQc1oRbvrA933thu0OS?si=-Jvv9ppPTuiZYX5IdC2RdA
The New York Philharmonic – Leonard Bernstein
open.spotify.com/album/4m6ilF9p2olP4cvlzIik5N?si=OkJlyo5VRz21a-FkFlhBQA
Boston Baroque – Martin Pearlman
open.spotify.com/album/7yfxQLsMJQhdek3ckxNAyE?si=Pk_nxpEmTe2qcwkW1CipqQ
Bach Consort Wein – Rubén Dubrovsky
open.spotify.com/album/1Hgzo5fPr2DNl1CAc3Gdxf?si=XZ94aBuMRn2hJsX3e109RQ

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

How I assess a HiFi system: My top 10 test tracks

Pearl Acoustics 2024-12-02 | Over the years, I have developed a method by which I can relatively quickly assess a HiFi system. By selecting a few recordings (which I play in a specific order), I can form the basis of an opinion. The recordings I have chosen are not necessarily super high quality, but are each selected for a specific purpose.

My tracks are:
1. Jackson Browne: Linda Paloma
open.spotify.com/track/2eEVA9YI3yhTdugUysHmaP?si=d0ca61510901417d
2. Willie Nelson: Little House on the hill
open.spotify.com/track/3dF3kvnHwiMOrTVSnDl6nY?si=5c18f894fbe74f69
3. Tracy Chapman: Mountain ‘O things
open.spotify.com/track/45GTwVJoDDLGEAYkB5NOrT?si=2a8a579ddfab4418
4. Dianne Reeves: One for my baby
open.spotify.com/track/3l8AksMKUIO35TXrn115Lp?si=db6eabfeea734ce3
5. Paul Simon: 50 ways to leave your lover
open.spotify.com/track/6Qb7gtV6Q4MnUjSbkFcopl?si=d7f04da7450f4e4a
6. Tom Jones: What good am I?
open.spotify.com/track/2OsqhOCQAi0VLg8rgTgwFB?si=df84dbe6070f414b
BBC Interview: Tom Jones Interview with John Wilson on the BBC’s ‘Master Tapes’ series: bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p04qr2kq
7. Harry Belafonte: Jamaican Farewell – Live
open.spotify.com/track/5W5D6nk659xDDwgAqeYSQJ?si=5f582dedd7274e7e
8. Jos van Immerseel: Van Beethoven 4 Symphony No. 4. 1. Adagio – Allegro
open.spotify.com/track/2ogE5tcWgsqhIULaD2rZv1?si=3b8c1c53d8b94a0a
9. Peter Hurford: Paul Hindemith Organ Sonata no 1. 1937 (Phantasie)
open.spotify.com/track/79JvhYTyp6SCs6xnTo2NZX?si=c962ff976e054d88
10. Howard Griffiths / Royal Phil: Max Bruch’s: Kol Nidrei
open.spotify.com/track/6uwUTGxaSQ5ygB0sBy1rtI?si=dd733c372bd8402c

Intro & outro music: ‘Philia’ taken from The Four Loves, by Stefan Meylaers:
open.spotify.com/track/2vaU6lWvYlW2tEbjzF2FWW?si=06d392d9074b4b3d

Equipment used in this video (where applicable):
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800 / Topping Pre 90 / D90
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 170,
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard And Soft. A 3rd album masterpiece

Pearl Acoustics 2024-11-18 | In May 2024, Billie Eilish released this, her third studio album, 'Hit Me Hard and Soft'. Produced by her brother Finneas, I think it so remarkable, that it is worthy of being included in this series of 'Great Recordings'. In this video I will not only, be sharing my thoughts on the work itself but also playing extracts from it. I compare the writing style and arrangements with that of artists from the past, such as Joni Mitchell, Daft Punk and The Beatles.

00:00 - Introduction
01:31 - trying to define how we measure a great musician
02:33 - The accomplishments of Billie Eilish, so far
04:10 - Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard & Soft
04:31 - Who is Billie Eilish? A short Biography and introduction to Finneas
09:11 - Hit Me Hard and Soft
10:51 - Skinny
20:32 - Lunch
22:10 - Chihiro
25:39 - Birds of a Feather
29:53 - Wildflower
32:00 - The Greatest
37:02 - L'amore De Ma Vie
39:38 - The Diner
41:28 - Bittersuite
43:16 - Blue
49:18 - Conclusion & summary - what next for Billie Eilish?

Equipment used in this video:
Playback:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden ANV50
Streamer: Bluesound Node
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK
Recording:
Sennheiser ME-2 lavalier microphone with XSW-D wireless kit, coupled to a Zoom H6 with MSH-6 capsule activated

About Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Superhuman hearing - Headphones vs loudspeakers & how audiophiles hear things others cant

Pearl Acoustics 2024-11-04 | This video was inspired by a visitor to our Belgian Listening Room. The video started out as a comparison between the way we hear on headphones compared with in-room stereo, and ended up covering how we hear, Tinnitus and the controversial topic of how audiophiles hear things that others can't!

Topics:
00:00 - Introduction
01:55 - Question - how do wear hear low frequencies in rooms shorter than the wavelength?
03:43 - Coming to two channel stereo from headphones
05:10 - How we hear a realistic soundstage with stereo loudspeakers
12:00 - How we hear, how our ears turn soundwaves into signals to our brain
13:39 - Tinnitus, what it is and why it disturbs us and its impact on how audiophiles hear?
17:57 - How we hear things that others don't
21:46 - Final comments on the difference between headphones and loudspeakers
22:46 - The answer to the question
26:00 - The importance of room acoustics
Spotify link to song mentioned in video: 'Linda Paloma' by Jackson Browne:
open.spotify.com/track/2eEVA9YI3yhTdugUysHmaP?si=0b51afb485d8419d

Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Thanks to Mykyta for the inspiring talk in our listening room that, in part, led to me making this video.

Bruch Violin Concerto No.1 in G Minor Op.26 - The most recorded violin concerto of all time

Pearl Acoustics 2024-10-21 | I have known this work for as long as I can remember. Its definitely among the most beautiful violin concertos ever written. And is proven to be the most popular. If you don't know it, join me and discover why this piece of music is so special. I am sure you won't regret it! In this video I will compare 7 different versions but I could have selected way, way more!

Topics covered:
00:00 – Introduction
03:21 – Short Bio on Max Bruch
06:25 – The Violin Concerto
09:07 – The First movement: Voorspiel (allegro moderato) G Minor
28:20 – The Second movement: Adagio Eflat Major
35:10 – Obtaining a rich warm tone from a violin
45:54 – The Third movement: Finale G Major
46:49 – Intermodulation Distortion (IMD)
48:44 – The Third movement: Finale G Major (continued)

Spotify links to the featured recordings (in order of appearance)
Maxime Vengerov:
open.spotify.com/track/6XVc8PNCLS67PN0fVjQsQx?si=f7c969c5e0b64101
Arthur Grumiaux:
open.spotify.com/track/6K6dWEpzo2lRuKiOSytJ7j?si=e80ec756f21b4cd8
Itzhak Perlman:
open.spotify.com/track/35gAJE7Je5ojzPWlfwZEF9?si=d858621a3c1c4e72
Sarah Chang:
open.spotify.com/track/6FuVNx3X6WscYubVyRyMdz?si=0c7c1a82ab8641a6
Julia Fischer:
open.spotify.com/track/3uLsZpdHrJsR9AjrrxMI66?si=0bc5101c6b5c4cba
Janine Jansen:
open.spotify.com/track/5xCHmCizjJ4ptpftvJ8Rlf?si=7dd3ecc2af5a43d5
Kyung Wah Chung: (Rudolph Kempe)
open.spotify.com/track/79AtrQa8JtbHLQAbESnYt2?si=12395ab5d42d4b13
Kyung Wah Chung: (Klaus Tennstedt)
open.spotify.com/track/0wFm0y7iai6bc3kLAn4LOf?si=e1f4c81b81d54428
Link to Kol Nidrei: (Mistislav Rostropovich / London Symphony Orchestra)
open.spotify.com/track/1JTybEg14AkLlSVzaYenRH?si=44b81c0682414b8f

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
DAC: Denafrips Pontus 15th.
Amplifier: Sugden ANV 50
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

DACs Pt.3: The Ultimate Comparison: Topping vs SMSL vs Sugden vs Denafrips!

Pearl Acoustics 2024-10-07 | In this video I recap on my two previous DAC episodes and go into more depth on many people's favourite DAC from my first video, the Sugden DAC-4 / DAP 800.

I also give a comparison demonstration of music played through the Topping D90 Mklll (dual Sabre), the SMSL D400 EX (dual AKM), the Topping D10 balanced (Sabre), the Denafrips Pontus 15th. (R2R, Ladder) and the Sugden DAP 800 (dual Philips TDA1543).

In the video the music sound clip is played through my loudspeakers in my listening room, but, we have also uploaded recordings made directly from the balanced output of each DAC to our website. Thus circumnavigating the room effect. These recordings can be downloaded for free from our shop at pearlacoustics.com. In months to come I may add additional recordings from other DACs to the collection. I will notify this in this description and put out a message on Facebook to advise.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
00:27 - Recap on the two previous videos
00:56 - Viewer feedback from my two previous DAC videos
01:30 - Explanation of the comparison recording process
07:10 - More info on the Sugden DAC-4 / DAP 800
09:30 - In room comparison sound clips from each DAC (see above or below)
13:56 - Summary, video closure & titles

Links:

File downloads: shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/dac-comparison-files
Philips TDA1543 technical documentation:
datasheet.octopart.com/TDA1543A-Philips-datasheet-105772.pdf

Music:
Chasing The Dragon Records (Clare Teal recording) chasingthedragon.co.uk
Joris Vanvinckenroye: ‘Cycles’ from the CD Basta:
open.spotify.com/track/2AP8CVTN7sseNxGgCGj52t?si=078b1bb055ee40b6
‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers (our intro & outro music) : open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

About us:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Contact Us:
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Topping D90 Pre
Amplifier: Sugden ANV50
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
DACs: Topping D90 Mklll, SMSL D400 EX, Topping D10B, Denafrips Pontus 15th., Sugden DAP 800
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

R2R, Ladder DACs - featuring the Denafrips Pontus 15th Anniversary DAC

Pearl Acoustics 2024-09-30 | Following on from our video where I compared an SMSL D400 EX dual AKM Chip DAC with a Topping D90 Mk lll, dual Sabre chip DAC, in this video I talk about the much loved R2R Ladder DAC concept, focusing specifically on Denafrips' brand new Pontus 15th. On the 7th October, 2024 we will release a Pt 3 'DAC Shootout' conclusion video, where we will compare the Topping D90, the SMSL D400 EX, the Topping D10, Sugden DAC4 / DAP 800 with the Denefrips Pontus 15th. To do this, we will make sound recordings, directly from the outputs of each dac and upload them to our website, for free download, so you can compare at home on your own systems. But for now let's get to know the Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC better!

Contents:
00:00 - Introduction
03:36 - The Denafrips Pontus 15th Anniversary
10:35 - The differences between the Pontus 15th and the Pontus ll - 12th
10:59 - How an R2R Ladder DAC works (high level overview)
13:37 - The Pontus 15 power supply
16:10 - My feelings towards the Denafrips Pontus 15th
19:43 - Explanation of the upcoming DAC shootout comparison video
20:35 - Conclusion

Interesting Links:
R2R Ladder DACS: electronics-tutorials.ws/combination/r-2r-dac.html
Low Jitter Clocks: insideclassicaudio.blogspot.com/2011/07/low-jitter-clocks.html

Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

The Last Ship: An almost forgotten masterpiece

Pearl Acoustics 2024-09-16 | Like me, you might not have been a big Sting fan, of course there a few tracks and song of his I quite like but this is on a total other level. And yet, almost no one I know seems to have even heard of it. I discovered this incredible work purely by accident. The melodies and arrangements are glorious, the musicianship is superb, the lyrics are the work of a genius, and the recording and engineering is expertly executed. Join me on a journey of discovery.

In this work, Sting explores the industrial might of his childhood past, his childhood and coming of age, his relationship with his father, with lost love, with life itself and eventually death.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
01:59 – Context: Why this piece?
08:35 – The Last Ship
12:36 – Dead Man’s Boots
15:19 – And Yet
21:02 The Language of Birds
25:15 – Practical Arrangement
29:22 – The Night The Pugilist Learns How to Dance
33:10 The Ballad of The Great Eastern
35:42 – I Love Her But She Loves Someone Else
40:30 – So To Speak
46:25 – “The Last Ship” Reprise

Content Links:
Wikipedia page on the album ‘The Last Ship’: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Ship_(album)
Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden ANV 50 Silver
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

MM Vs MC Phono Cartridges: The brand new Rega Nd7 versus their flagship Aphelion 2!

Pearl Acoustics 2024-09-02 | In this video I talk about the differences between Moving Magnet and Moving Coil phono cartridges. I explore their technical differences and look for justifications for the big price differences. I use as a specific example the latest, top of the range Moving Magnet cartridge from Rega (their Nd7) and compare it with their flagship Aphelion 2 Moving Coil Cartridge. Is paying 8 times the retail price of the Nd7 for the Aphelion 2 worth it? At the end of the video, I demonstrate some in room, side by side audio comparisons. BUT, I also made some recordings taken directly from the output stage of the Rega Aria phono stage (preamplifier) and uploaded them to our webshop where you can download them for free. (See link below). This is the closest we can get to offering you the chance to hear these two cartridges, mounted onto a Rega RB titanium tonearm on a Rega NAIA turntable, on your own system. In addition, I made some comparison recordings of the Nd7 from the output of the Rega Fono MM Mk5 phono-stage, which are also available from our webshop (link below). My question is: Do you think paying the extra for the Aria Mk lll is worth it, if one is not going down the Moving Coil route? - All answers in the comments please!

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:29 -Why this topic? Some background information.
05:49 – Why are Moving Coil Cartridges so expensive & What are the differences between them?
11:53 – The effects of aging on hearing and appreciating HiFi
12:52 – The new Nd range of Rega MM cartridges
15:20 – The development process of the new Rega Nd MM range
22:21 – How do they sound?
27:45 – In room recording comparisons between Rega Nd7 and Rega Aphelion 2

Link to the free download of the direct output recordings:
shop.pearlacoustics.com/product/mmmc_samples

Equipment used in this video:
Rega Nd7 and Aphelion 2 phono cartridges
Rega NAIA turntable with the Rega RB titanium tonearm
Rega Aria Mk lll & Rega Fono MM Mk5 phono amplifiers
(For in Room comparison) as above +:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Sugden ANV50
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Content Links:
Music:
Chasing The Dragon Records (I’ve got you under my skin’ and ‘Scheherazade’ recordings) chasingthedragon.co.uk
Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13
Equipment:
Rega: rega.co.uk
Pearl Acoustics Sibelius loudspeakers (who we are, what we do and what we believe in): pearlacoustics.com

Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Mozart Piano Concerto No.15, an overlooked gem from a genius at the height of his prowess

Pearl Acoustics 2024-08-19 | In Vienna in the spring of 1784, Mozart wrote two of his finest piano concertos. No. 15 in B flat K450 and No 16 in D major K451. Number 15 is probably the most technically demanding of all Mozart's piano concertos but when played well, is arguably among the most beautiful and spellbinding piano concertos ever written. In this video I compare performances by Alfred Brendel, Murray Perahia, Mitsuko Uchida, Ronald Brautigam and Ingrid Haebler. Enjoy!

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
01:15 -Why Piano Concerto No 15?
06:55 – Brief overview on Mozart and his life
10:46 – 1st. movement Piano Concerto No. 15
25:21 – 2nd. movement Piano Concerto No. 15
45:33 – 3rd. movement Piano Concerto No. 15

Content Links:
BBC Proms video: Yeol Eum Son:piano with Omer Meir Wellber Conducting the BBC Philharmonic, 23 July 2019 - youtube.com/watch?v=z2i8RDc1qpI

Spotify links to the selected works:
Ingrid Haebler with Sir Colin Davis and The London Symphony Orchestra
open.spotify.com/track/0dVkGw8w7gAC0JzJGPZc2H?si=4b761b62b7e74715
Murray Perahia / English Chamber Orchestra
open.spotify.com/track/5M6uhSPrLBSjqC8p4KR2qP?si=c2a3ac5c55ec4216
Alfred Brendel & the Academy of Saint Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner: open.spotify.com/track/6leGi7XQBMlQH0jPGVgKaI?si=8298811748aa4f35
Mitsuko Uchida / English Chamber Orchestra / Jeffrey Tate
open.spotify.com/album/69zCnoVGvUbqUrYVEkTdPQ?si=-N681IZsTZeHcrys4OaknA
Ronald Brautigam (fortepiano) / Die Koelner Akademie / Michael Alexander Willens
open.spotify.com/track/2BbfxZcC1gt6vrVKd9SV1w?si=f2c96c51a4a14c8b
Further reading:
A marvellous website for information on Mozart, including all his letters (in English and in German): https://dme.mozarteum.at/en/letter-documents/#

Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier and Dac: Sugden Saphire DAP 800
Amplifier: Pearl Acoustics 170,
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Sibelius Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest Evergreen (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Lets talk about DACs! The Topping D90 Mklll & D10B (ESS Sabre), Vs the SMSL D400EX (AKM)

Pearl Acoustics 2024-08-05 | For many people 'all DACs sound the same'. But do they? In this video I look at the Topping D90 Mklll, pairing it with its preamplifier counterpart, the Topping D90 Pre. By way of illustration, I evaluate its use of the 2 X ES9039SPRO DAC chips and then compare it with SMSL's D400EX which uses 2 X AK4499EX chips. For a control, to compare them both against, I use the Sugden Saphire DAP 800. Which one sounds best? Finally, I ask the question can the much lower priced Topping D10B (also using a Sabre chip, the ES9038Q2M) sound as good as its flagship big brother the Topping D90 Mklll? I also explain a useful way to listen out for differences between DACs.

All the sound samples are free to download from our website (see link below), so you can hear exactly what came out of the microphones!

Topics covered:
00:00 – Introduction – Why the topics of DACs and why now?
06:45 – The Topping D90 Mklll
09:32 – SINAD Signal to noise & THD & AudioScience reviews
16:12 – Some info on the SMSL D400EX
20:07 – My first impressions of the differences between the D90Mklll and the D400EX
24:33 – Introducing Joris Vanvinckenroye – Double bass player & composer
25:27 - How to hear the differences between DACs. What to listen out for
29:16 – Sound clips: SMSL D400EX Vs Topping D90 Mklll Vs Sugden DAP 800
32:37 – Sound clips: Topping D10B Vs Topping D90 Mklll
34:56 – The credits

Content Links: Music
Your free of charge set of the comparison test soundtracks (click on ‘Music’) at:
shop.pearlacoustics.com

Recommended Tracks for comparing DACs:
Joris Vanvinckenroye: ‘Cycles’ from the CD Basta:
open.spotify.com/track/2AP8CVTN7sseNxGgCGj52t?si=078b1bb055ee40b6
Paul Simon, 50 ways to leave your lover: open.spotify.com/track/6Qb7gtV6Q4MnUjSbkFcopl?si=5f4bacaed6764709
Steely Dan: Cousin Dupree, Two Against Nature:
open.spotify.com/track/0tSetyzVMV1lSylhrYGZoS?si=a5a0e55a362f4c7c
Jos Van Immerseel, Anima eterna, Beethoven Symphony No. 4: open.spotify.com/album/6Jj90yQSvSWrOfSV7hfoLU?si=Jzsky6JWRm-9nrYYl_8wEg
Chasing The Dragon Records (Clare Teal recording) chasingthedragon.co.uk

Equipment Reviews and related topics (SINAD etc)
Darko Topping D10S review: youtu.be/zgRLCAbrr2c?si=cYxoyBJVgRrRhNt0Amir AudioScience Review Topping D90 Mklll: audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-d90-iii-sabre-dac-review.51493
Amir AudioScience Review SMSL D400EX:
audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/smsl-d400ex-dac-review.40116
SINAD, why it’s not important Andrew Park youtube.com/watch?v=DlwIGPEhfGU
Written article by Andrew Park and & Blaine Lacross: headphones.com/blogs/features/evaluating-sinad-why-its-not-important

Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Johnny Cash, American IV: The Man Comes Around

Pearl Acoustics 2024-06-17 | In ill health, knowing he’s in final chapter, Johnny Cash goes into the recording studio with a long list of songs he wants to record. The result is a series of staggeringly powerful performances that pull you in to witness the story of his life. A truly great recording because he’s there right in front of you, demonstrating exactly why he was such a revered artist.

Content links:
Johnny Cash’s : ‘Hurt’ the video: youtube.com/watch?v=8AHCfZTRGiI
Nine Inch Nails ‘Hurt’ the video: youtube.com/watch?v=dhh21crSohs
Depeche Mode ‘Personal Jesus’ the video: youtube.com/watch?v=cNd4eocq2K0
Interview with Johnny Cash about the death of his brother Jack: youtube.com/watch?v=Lbu_xWaXrWc
Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

Links to us:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics, Sibelius SG
Preamplifier: Topping Pre90
Amplifiers: Pearl Acoustics 170
Blue Sound – Node Streaming
Sugden DAC
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

The Pearl Acoustics 170, single ended, vacuum tube power amplifier - the story so far!

Pearl Acoustics 2024-05-27 | After over a decade of trying, our first own design amplifier is built, but there's a problem! In this video I outline the story of its development and talk about the approach we took but also the dilemma we now find ourselves in! We include some sound clips of it playing and discuss our next steps! Enjoy.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
00:25 - Why our own amplifier?
02:07 - The design approach
05:53 - How I think it sounds (of course I am very biased)!
07:53 - Our big problem!
11:12 - Actual sound examples played through our amplifier and loudspeakers

Link to the Class A vs AB Pt 2 video: youtu.be/Mk38FfODqEg

Links to selected music:
Stef Kamil Carlens: Painted Glass: open.spotify.com/track/2GwMupL2s3SrvAnYEzfFGm?si=ae1454c324ae4351
Stef Kamil Carlens: Like a Rolling Stone cover on Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/6wPx4WNWcaISn2DGm03W4T?si=b81ea2419ac44f83
Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13
Chasing The Dragon Records (Clare Teal recording & Rimsky Korsakov) chasingthedragon.co.uk

Links to us:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Topping Pre90
Amplifiers: Galion TS 120 SE, Decware Torri Mk V, Pearl Acoustics 170,
Turntable: Rega NAIA - Aphelion 2 MC and Rega Aria pre-amplifier
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Class A Vs AB amplifiers Pt 2: The magic of vacuum tube amplifiers!

Pearl Acoustics 2024-05-27 | In part 1. we looked at solid-state amplifiers, in this video we look at vacuum tube (or valve) amplifiers. Do Class A sound better than AB or is this a myth?

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
01:15 - Why tube amplifiers? & the amplifiers chosen for this video
08:27 - Stef Kamil Carlens & his music
13:40 - The comparison sound examples

Link To Class A vs AB Pt. 1 (solid state amplifiers): youtu.be/tY5vuinByLs
Link To the Pearl Acoustics 170 Amplifier: youtu.be/x1J00R_Plls

Links to selected music:
Stef Kamil Carlens: Painted Glass: open.spotify.com/track/2GwMupL2s3SrvAnYEzfFGm?si=ae1454c324ae4351
Stef Kamil Carlens: Like a Rolling Stone cover on Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/6wPx4WNWcaISn2DGm03W4T?si=b81ea2419ac44f83
Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13
Chasing The Dragon Records (Clare Teal recording & Rimsky Korsakov) chasingthedragon.co.uk

Links to us:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Topping Pre90
Amplifiers: Galion TS 120 SE, Decware Torri Mk V, Pearl Acoustics 170,
Turntable: Rega NAIA - Aphelion 2 MC and Rega Aria pre-amplifier
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Bach Brandenburg No. 5: The concerto that defined Jazz, Prog-Rock, Metal & even some Pop formats

Pearl Acoustics 2024-05-06 | 300 years ago J.S. Bach wrote a piece of music that would define the structure of music we still adhere to today, especially in the realms of Jazz & Rock. Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No.5 (like the rest of the concertos in the set of six) stands out as something very special. It's long and dramatic solo at the end of the first movement, defined a format that would last for ever, where the band stops to give one musician the chance play a long solo, before the band come back in to end the piece. In this video I take a number of recordings of this ground breaking work and compare them for both their performance styles and recording techniques.

00:00 - Introduction
02:32 - Brandenburg No. 5
04:47 - Listing my chosen ensembles
06:42 - 1st. Movement - comparing the recordings
20:25 - 2nd. Movement - comparing the recordings
29:05 - 3rd. Movement - comparing the recordings

Links to:
Brandenburg No. 5 'Jack Lousier Trio' video: youtu.be/vzYMWiHopZE
Claudio Abbado & Orchestra Mozart playing No.5 live: youtube.com/watch?v=gIgqeA76cdU

Spotify: Brandenburg No. 5
Akademie Für Alte Musik Berlin: open.qobuz.com/track/129161838
Concerto Italiano: open.qobuz.com/track/43066094
Orchestra Mozart: open.qobuz.com/track/3205558
Cafe Zimmerman: open.qobuz.com/track/128291897
Concerto Cologne: open.qobuz.com/track/91710416
The English Concert: open.qobuz.com/track/162905081
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields: open.qobuz.com/track/2401299

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Sugden DAP-800
Amplifier: Galion A75
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in:
Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Class A vs AB amplifiers: The search for a perfect soundstage and an emotional connection

Pearl Acoustics 2024-04-15 | I often find myself being drawn to Class 'A' type amplifiers, but why? Is that logical, or some kind of bias? I was of the opinion that they offered a better soundstage and a more natural listening experience. After this exercise, I am not so sure... In this video I also talk about 'Soundstage', what it is, and can it really be achieved? I also explain how humans detect sound sources and the importance of 'timbre' (a HiFi system's ability to differentiate between sound types).

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Amplifiers: PassLabs INT-25, Rega Aethos, Sugden SPA-4, Musical Fidelity M8s-500s
Preamplifier: Topping Pre90
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Natural Balance, Interconnects: AudioQuest
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

Topics covered:
00:00 - Introduction
07:14 - 'Soundstage', what is it and how good can it be?
10:13 - How do humans detect a sound source & hence imagine a soundstage.
15:11 - 'Timbre', distinguishing subtle differences in sounds
21:44 - Rega Aethos (Class AB)
22:45 - PassLabs INT-25 (Class A)
24:46 - Sugden SPA-4 (Class A)
25:41 - Musical Fidelity M8s-500s (Class AB)

Content Links:
More About Class A and AB amplifiers: electronics-lab.com/article/class-ab-amplifiers
More about Soundstage: soundgearlab.com/learn/soundstage-imaging-explained
How we perceive pitch: https://www.cochlea.eu/en/sound/psychoacoustics/pitch
White paper on Huygens and pitch: https://fabilsen.home.xs4all.nl/RPnature.pdf
Wonderful 3D immersive sound experience (headphones essential) youtube.com/watch?v=IUDTlvagjJA
Chasing The Dragon Records (Clare Teal recording) chasingthedragon.co.uk

Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

If you would like to discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in, please visit our website at: pearlacoustics.com or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Pearl Acoustics loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Pearl Acoustics 170, vacuum tube, Class A amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/170-single-ended-vacuum-tube-power-amplifier

Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Nina Simone. First album genius - Little Girl Blue, Bethlehem Records, 1959

Pearl Acoustics 2024-03-25 | While most people think of Nina Simone as a great singer, in this video covering the recording of her first LP, 'Little Girl Blue', I focus on Nina the pianist and why this album deserves to be right up there among the all time great jazz albums.

Topics covered:
00:00 - Title Sequence
00:26 - Introduction / why 'Little Girl Blue'?
02:35 - Nina Simone, her back story and classical music career aspirations
12:12 - 'Mood Indigo' by Duke Ellington, Barney Bigard, Irving Mills
16:06 - 'Don't Smoke In Bed' by Willard Robison
19:12 - 'He Needs Me' by Arthur Hamilton
21:54 - 'Little Girl Blue' by Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart
23:58 - 'Love Me Or Leave Me' by Walter Donaldson, Gus Kahn
25:06 - 'My Baby Just Cares For Me' by Walter Donaldson, Gus Kahn
26:48 - 'Good Bait' by Count Basie, Tadd Dameron
31:17 - 'I Loves You Porgy' by DuBose Heyward, George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin

Nina Simone: Piano & vocals, Jimmy Bond: Double bass, Albert "Tootie" Heath: Drums
Little Girl Blue released by Bethlehem Records, February 1959. Recorded in the Beltone studios in New York in 1957.

Playback Equipment for this video: Qobuz streaming over BlueSound Node N130. Saphire series, Sugden DAP-800 Preamplifier, Pearl Acoustics PA 170 power amplifier (pre-production prototype), Pearl Acoustics Sibelius SG Natural Oak Loudspeakers.

If you would like to discover more about us, who we are, what we do and our HiFi equipment, please visit our website at: pearlacoustics.com or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Link to our Sibelius loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Link to our 170, vacuum tube, Class A amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/170-single-ended-vacuum-tube-power-amplifier

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

What Preamplifier? Which one of my top 10 would you go for?

Pearl Acoustics 2024-03-11 | In this video I look at ten different preamplifiers, from 600EUR (656USD) to over 17,000EUR! I compare features and performance in some detail because preamplifiers are the pieces of HiFi equipment we interface with the most, be it via an App, a remote control, or by getting out of our chairs and pushing buttons turning dials. But how much should you spend? Is 'expensive' always better? What features are useful and which are not? And why bother with a preamplifier at all?

Pre-amplifiers covered:
00:00 - Introduction
02:09 - Topping Pre90 & Extender
09:26 - QUAD Artera
11:56 - Hattor
16:19 - Lyngdorf TDAI 1120
19:49 - SPL Elector
23:29 - Musical Fidelity M8sPre
29:50 - Michi P5 S2
32:14 - Sugden DAP-800
38:28 - PS Audio BHK Pre
44:42 - PassLabs XP12
45:29 - Mola Mola Makua
50:41 - Conclusion

If you would like to discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and our Sibelius loudspeakers and amplifiers, please visit our website at: pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Link to our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers

Link to our brand new vacuum tube, Class A amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/170-single-ended-vacuum-tube-power-amplifier

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Haydn String Quartet Op. 20, No. 5 in F Minor: The perfect music to de-stress and relax to.

Pearl Acoustics 2024-02-12 | It's been a tough day and you're looking for a piece of music to listen to that will help you de-stress but is not muzac or over simplistic. In 1772, Joseph Haydn wrote just the piece! In this video lecture, I talk about the work and Haydn, and compare six different performances, ranging from 1932 to almost the present day.

Video chapters:
00:00 - Trailer & Introduction
02:27 - Joseph Haydn, his life and works - a rags to riches story
07:27 - Overview of my six chosen recordings and ensembles
13:31 - 1st. Movement - Allegro Moderato
29:22 - 2nd. Movement - Minuet (Menuetto)
35:48 - 3rd. Movement - Adagio
44:03 - 4th. Movement: Finale Fuga 2 soggetti (2 subjects)

Links to the recordings on Spotify:
Dudok Quartet Amsterdam:
open.spotify.com/album/0ocsqjhKFO6Ww2ASVDp30X?si=-XsANjTbQ9OZ0qEvtwPf2Q
Emerson String Quartet:
open.spotify.com/album/16r1qFQkl3je2yeQIVFkRu?si=Bxzxgdw8Q9CiavFEQAYkZg
The Lindsays:
open.spotify.com/album/59fD4AW4zQgzfMoBNA18fs?si=e-RGhY4WRZKvP8u8XHPtzA
Pro Arte String Quartet:
open.spotify.com/album/01XHlcoDS31d19yQ5XH16R?si=KzinB_GvRBChc3L1z_3Y3Q
Chiaroscuro Quartet:
open.spotify.com/album/2W0HnXe3dcBiLWGoutV5gH?si=6kcQ2fS9REmolY3l6L-tnA
Jerusalem Quartet:
open.spotify.com/album/5syTmsjEsKDIY0KuVBcmEI?si=g-iOw959S3-KuefsyzR7sA

If you would like to discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and our Sibelius loudspeakers and amplifiers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Rega P10 vs NAIA: From very good to great, or just the same? + Apheta 3 vs Aphelion 2

Pearl Acoustics 2024-01-29 | I considered the Rega P10 with their Apheta 3 cartridge to be really very good, the question for me was, could the state of the arts NAIA sound any better? And if one is going to spend a few thousand Euros more for a cartridge upgrade, would it be worth it?

Chapters
00:00 - Intro
01:44 - Background to the NAIA & the P10
03:24 - Side by side comparison, the differences P10 vs NAIA
12:27 - Is the NAIA better than the P10?
13:31 - Disclaimer
14:24 - The differences (Apheta 3 versus Aphelion 2)
18:48 - The sound differences P10 vs NAIA
23:33 - In room comparison recordings - P10 vs NAIA

Links to related videos:
The Rega P10 – Why? - youtu.be/0qWVWnxVJsU
10 Iconic turntables - youtu.be/VCAhllcc_Ew

The P10 vs NAIA comparison music:
"I've got you under my skin" by Cole Porter, sung by Clare Teal with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra.*
“Violin concerto in B minor", Vivaldi, performed by Interpreti Veneziani
"Scheherazade", Rimsky-Korsakov, National Symphony Orchestra, Anthony Inglis, ,
All are available as a *direct cut LP or high resolution download or CD from Chasing The Dragon Records: http://chasingthedragon.co.uk.
Thanks to Mike & Francoise Valentine, and the musicians and engineers, for letting us feature them.

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Bob Marley & The Wailers Exodus: The best reggae album of all time?

Pearl Acoustics 2024-01-09 | I believe that 'Exodus' is worthy of being classified as one of the most important reggae albums of all time. In this video, I not only explore the album itself but also look a little into its history and the story behind it. I play some excerpts of each track (via streaming) and end with a blast from my vinyl copy. Towards the end, I also explore some other reggae music from other artists, that I also find inspiring and worthy of a mention.

Acoustic Guitar – Bob Marley
Backing Vocals – Judy Mowatt, Marcia Griffiths, Rita Marley, (Threes) & Tyrone Downie
Bass – Aston "Familyman" Barrett*
Drums – Carlton Barrett
Guitar – Junior Marvin
Rhythm Guitar – Bob Marley
Keyboards – Tyrone Downie
Lead Guitar – Julian (Junior) Marvin
Lead Vocals – Bob Marley
Percussion – Alvin Patterson, Aston "Familyman" Barrett, Bob Marley, Carlton Barrett, Tyrone Downie
Trumpet, horn arrangements - David Madden
Trombone - Vin Gordon
Saxophone - Glen Da Costa
Recording Engineer – Karl Pitterson
Assistant engineers – Guy Bidmead & Terry Barham
Mixed by - Aston Barrett, Chris Blackwell, Karl Pitterson

Interesting links:
Exodus concert, 1 June, 1997: Hammersmith, London:
youtu.be/tebTvzehp2g?si=c3eS7PiVD6yX09J5

Rita Marley: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rita_Marley

Bob Marley: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Marley

Tyrone Downie: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyrone_Downie

Rastafari: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rastafari

The concert, 2 days after being shot: youtube.com/watch?v=0qARbHzRA1A

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and our Sibelius loudspeakers and amplifiers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Musical Fidelity A1 - Sugden A21, how do they compare?

Pearl Acoustics 2023-12-18 | Many Sibelius owners have asked me how the Musical Fidelity and the Sugden A21 compare, and I was very curious too! Both amplifiers are Class A and have a similar outputs and feature sets. However, the Sugden A21, with a phono input is more than twice the price of the Musical Fidelity A1 at 3,400EUR versus 1,600EUR for the Musical Fidelity.

Musical Fidelity A1 Specifications:
Power: 25 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms
• Voltage: 42.5 Volts peak to peak
• Current: 25 Amps peak to peak
• Damping Factor: 150
• Gain: 32dB in Direct Mode, 42dB in Normal mode
• Output devices: 2 per channel
• Signal to noise ratio: 82dB
• Channel separation: 85dB
• Frequency response: + 0, –1dB, 10Hz to 40 kHz
• Line level sensitivity: 300mV rms nominal, 8V rms max
• Line level inputs impedance: 25k Ohms
• Tape Out impedance: 220 Ohms
• Pre-Out impedance: 100 Ohms
Inputs: • 1x phono RCA MM - MC, 5x line RCA
Outputs: • 1 x line level RCA fix TAPE OUT • 1 x line level RCA variable PRE OUT

Sugden A21 Specifications:
Power Output 23 Watts into 8 Ohms
Line Input Sensitivity 170mV for max. out
Phono Input Sensitivity 3mV moving magnet, 0.2mV moving coil for max. output
Phono Loading MM 47K MC 470 Ohm
Frequency Response plus minus 1dB 10Hz-20kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-200kHz
Signal to Noise: 83dB
Gross Weight (packed) 11kgs
Dimensions 92 x 430 x 350mm hwd
Inputs Five line level, four if with mm or mc phono input
Outputs Pre-out - variable, tape out - fixed
Remote Control Volume up & down

The comparison music is: "I've got you under my skin" by Cole Porter, sung by Clare Teal with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra. It is available as a 'direct cut LP' or CD from Chasing The Dragon Records: http://chasingthedragon.co.uk. Thanks to Mike & Francoise Valentine for letting us feature it.

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major: The most beautiful piano concerto ever written?

Pearl Acoustics 2023-11-27 | Could there ever be 'the most beautiful concerto', or even a 'best' concerto? In this video, Harley Lovegrove compares six different performances of this masterful work and encourages us to decide, not only, on which one we like best, but also to consider could this piano concerto ever be considered amongst the very best and most beautiful of all time?

Chapters
00:00 - Title & intro music
00:28 - Introduction to Ravel and G Major Concerto
06:46 - 1st Movement: Allegramente
28:49 - 2nd Movement: Adagio Assai
54:19 - 3rd Movement: Presto

Performances featured:
(Spotify links)
Zimmerman / Boulez: Cleveland Orchestra
open.spotify.com/album/0uMPPy2lbRhzn0PPonpyaT?si=kg0f9uIGTZ6lxq7shYpn_Q
Leonard Bernstein: Columbia Symphony Orchestra
open.spotify.com/album/5a9Tb67pcT4M2pXcfqbPei?si=YASitbQoQCSelak9LKTVIw
Argerich / Vedernikov: Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana
open.spotify.com/album/0ReZdj53R8bFVYfLb1ZKlQ?si=COf8H6pmS9uhR2EkEx3o_Q
Katchen / Kertesz: London Symphony Orchestra
open.spotify.com/album/06uSPhGeDvDAiQBhImvSUN?si=647lC0eDQ4ODheUnsZj03g
Michelangeli / Gracis: Philharmonia Orchestra
open.spotify.com/album/021fHMPCigfwXLcKXRAFME?si=9BGdy5YAQ1y-VpymNsUgPg
Grimaud / Zinman: Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
open.spotify.com/album/5WCbAvZgs0V6pbhzTiZnwe?si=OZZCWgx2SUS8Qoqp7cvvXw

Link to video footage of performances on YouTube:
Leonard Bernstein:
youtube.com/watch?v=gw7p60YvmRE
Martha Argerich:
youtube.com/watch?v=cJOW5mlhH_Y
youtube.com/watch?v=VIFYwsyI6po
youtube.com/watch?v=wMm6AR4KN1A
youtube.com/watch?v=vlvWfP-iFmY

HiFi equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Sugden DAP800
Amplifier: English Acoustics 41c
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Neutral Balance,
Interconnects: AudioQuest (various)
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Desktop HiFi (part 2) - the search for a DAC, preamplifier and loudspeakers is over!

Pearl Acoustics 2023-11-13 | In this episode I conclude my search for an outstanding desktop solution. apart from DACs and Preamplifiers, I explore active loudspeaker solutions and finally come to a decision as to what will stay on my desk and why.

Chapters
00:00 - Intro music
00:27 - Introduction - why we need desktop systems
03:37 - The pro-audio approach to hifi
06:22 - Active loudspeakers comparison
08:30 - Avoiding obsolescence
10:30 - Yamaha HS7
11:32 - Neumann KH120 Mk ll & KH750 & MA1
19:23 - What dac & preamplifier? - The Eversolo Z8
20:27 - Dac preamplifier alternatives - Fiio R7, SMSL M50, SMSL D400 EX
21:36 - Eversolo Z8 why?
22:43 - SPL Phonitor 2
29:15 - Chord Qutest vs SMSL D400 EX
32:56 - Conclusions and lessons learned

Link to Darko's review of the Fiio R7: youtu.be/dA70XDFh2Xk

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Desktop HiFi (part 1) - in pursuit of hi-quality nearfield listening

Pearl Acoustics 2023-10-30 | In this two part series, I begin with an empty desk and explore the possibilities to obtaining a hi-quality HiFi desktop set up, one which meets ones expectations and needs. In doing so, I will be sharing some tips and tricks along the way.

In this episode, look at passive loudspeakers and a variety of combinations of dacs, headphone amplifiers and integrated amplifiers.

In Part 2 (to be released on the 13th. of November 2023), I will take a very different approach and see which turns out best, and what I actually chose in the end.

Chapters by products discussed (please note that they often return after the next chapter begins)
0:00 - Intro
0:28 - Introduction to building your own desktop system (tips, tricks and essentials)
7:09 - ATC SCM 7's &
12:20 - Chord Electronics Qutest Dac & Qutest Annie integrated a headphone amplifier
21:03 - Pro-Ject Maia S3 integrated amplifier & headphone amplifier
25:12 - ATC SCM 12 Pro's
28:13 - Pro-Ject 5S2 Loudspeakers
30:00 - Totem Acoustic 'Bison'
33:12 - Eversolo Z8 Dac / pre-amplifier & headphone amplifier
38:28 - Pro-Ject Amp Box S3
38:58 - Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital
39:50 - Conclusions and my choice for Part 1

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Radiohead Kid A – a work of collective genius and beauty

Pearl Acoustics 2023-10-16 | This is an exploration into the wonders of this ground-breaking album. Released on the 2nd. of October, 2000, Kid A was initially dismissed by the press but embraced by millions. Today, it stands out as one of the greatest albums of the first decade of the 21st. century. In this video, Harley Lovegrove takes you on a journey into the world of Radiohead at the time of the making of this great recording.

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Sugden amplifiers - Whats so special about them?

Pearl Acoustics 2023-10-01 | It's not so often one gets the chance to compare four different amplifiers from the same manufacturer. In this talk, I share my thoughts on why I like Sugden amplifiers so much and the things you should take into account before purchasing an amplifier from Sugden.

The music chosen for the comparisons at the end was: 'I've got you under my skin' sung by Clare Teal with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra. (More info from www.chasingthedragonrecords.co.uk)

The Sugden amplifiers covered:
Sugden A21: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 170mV for max. out
Power Output 23 Watts into 8 Ohms
Frequency Response + -1dB 10Hz-20kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-200kHz
Signal to Noise less than 83dB
Gross Weight (packed) 11kgs
Dimensions 92 x 430 x 350mm hwd

Sugden A21SE: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 110mV @ zero attenuation for full output
Power Output 30 Watts into 8 Ohms both channels working
40 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -1dB 12Hz-141kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-280kHz
Signal to Noise Less than 90dB
Gross Weight (packed) 15kgs
Dimensions 115 x 430 x 360mm hwd

Sugden SPA-4: Specifications
Input Sensitivity 1Volt for full output
Power Output 75 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -0dB 15Hz-30kHz
Bandwidth -3dB points 2Hz-200kHz
Signal to Noise less than 85dB
Gross Weight (packed) 25kgs
Dimensions 250 x 430 x 350mm hwd

Sugden ANV-50: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 110mV @ zero attenuation for full output
Power Output 50 Watts into 8 Ohms both channels working
100 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -1dB 12Hz-45kHz
Bandwidth 8Hz-86kHz
Signal to Noise less than 85dB
Gross Weight (packed) 11kgs
Dimensions 143 x 430 x 370mm hwd

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Schubert - Piano Sonata No. 21, in B flat. - the most beautiful piece ever written for solo piano?

Pearl Acoustics 2023-09-18 | Schubert's last piano sonata, written shortly before his death in 1828, is a wonder to behold. In this talk, I give some background on the composer and the piece in general, and play excerpt performances from five truly remarkable pianists. Which one do you prefer?

Chapters:
00:25 - Introduction to Schubert his life and times and the work
06:05 - 1st. movement 'Molto Moderato'
17:56 - 2nd. movement 'Andante Sostenuto'
27:12 - 3rd. movement 'Scherzo - allegro vivace con delicatezza'
32:45 - 4th. Movement 'Allegro ma non troppo - Presto'

The Spotify links to the recordings I feature in this video are:
Leif Ove Andsnes:
open.spotify.com/album/3spm80NZ34XhAYBC59M7ML?si=fFZTKBDCSLWWe1SNSM_LDw
Sviatoslav Richter:
open.spotify.com/album/4VLvd67TGwLVc9Hw6tVux5?si=k-533wjJTxiBTFIhdvkPcg
Maria Joao Pires:
open.spotify.com/album/51e2j0LCoTQafc9wKXd2PE?si=NKLqdaFWTTejgE4p079aCA
Mitsuko Uchida:
open.spotify.com/album/4X32yxTPmTbd7i03gfiSZN?si=6K359A8zT_mvwFG-hMmObw
Stephen Kovacevich:
open.spotify.com/album/7dN59Wqhsf5tRU645fFhpe?si=mC2gV9mSSmusCSkqbt5BjA

Our intro & outro music ‘Philia’ by Stefan Meylaers: open.spotify.com/track/0w9qjKyF5mrUYelBkePEP8?si=6510d39aa9564e13

Equipment used in this video:
Loudspeakers: Pearl Acoustics SG
Preamplifier: Musical Fidelity M8s-Pre
Amplifiers: Musical Fidelity M8s-500s
CD Player: Lyngdorf CD-2
Cables: Loudspeaker cables: Pearl Acoustics Natural Balance, Interconnects: AudioQuest
Listening Room acoustic panels: GIK

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Galion TS120 vs. TS120SE - is the SE worth the extra?

Pearl Acoustics 2023-09-05 | I was lucky enough to get my hands on a TS120, to compare with my TS120SE... it's not often you get the chance to compare and the outcome was not obvious.

Comparison test Track is: 'Begin the beguine' by Cole Porter, sang by Clare Teal, with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra, Leader Chris Dean. It's taken from the album 'A tribute to Ella Fitzgerald'. Produced by Mike & Francoise Valentine - 'A direct cut recording'. Available for sale here: http://chasingthedragon.co.uk

Chapters:
06:18 Sound sample - TS120 with 'standard' PSVANE KT88 tubes
06:56 Sound sample - TS120 with Shuguang KT88 tubes
07:38 Sound sample - TS120SE with 'standard' PSVANE KT88 tubes
08:18 Sound sample - TS120SE with Shuguang KT88 tubes

As always, if you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at:
http://www.pearlacoustics.com

or email us with your questions:
enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

The Decware Zen TORII MK5 - touches down in Belgium!

Pearl Acoustics 2023-08-15 | *Harley will be away on holiday for 10 days, so please bear with us with any delay on replying to comments*

In this video I share my thoughts on Decware the company, the purchasing & logistics process of acquiring the Decware Zen Torii V amplifier and, most importantly, my impressions of it, its functionality and its sound characteristics. Enjoy.

Link to my video 'How loud is one Watt?: youtu.be/vaiEDYB5c9M
Link to the Decware site and Torii V details: decwareproducts.com/toriimk5
Link to Sophia Electric Tubes: sophiaelectric.com

More about Pearl Acoustics:
Discover more about Pearl Acoustics, who we are, what we do and what we believe in: Pearl Acoustics website: pearlacoustics.com
Our loudspeakers: pearlacoustics.com/loudspeakers
Our 7040 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/7040-power-amplifier
Our 170 amplifier: pearlacoustics.com/products__info/170-power-amplifier
Email us: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links: facebook.com/PearlAcoustics instagram.com/pearl.acoustics

Disclosure: All comments and claims in this video are the opinion of the presenter and are given independently of any external company or organisation. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the presenter does not receive any payment, gifts or other incentives from any of the companies featured in this video. All equipment in this video has either been purchased by the presenter or is on loan to him expressly for the making of this video.
All facts, figures, prices and technical specifications are quoted on a best-efforts basis for accuracy, no liability can be accepted for any errors therein.

Beethoven’s 3rd, the symphony that changed everything...

Pearl Acoustics 2023-08-01 | In this video I focus solely on four of the recordings of Beethoven's Eroica symphony (Op 55) conducted by Herbert von Karajan. However, there are many, many other brilliant recordings by incredibly conductors. Here is a list of just a few of them:

Gustavo Dudamel:
open.spotify.com/album/4SdAMgzIpyiA0xvbwM8IM5?si=iN0ctKqFQoOhG-sADGS3nA

Klaus Tennstedt:
open.spotify.com/album/0fO6TuLwe3S9npbFVkYhiW?si=GwqX_aBVR0ObnGOihCyTEw

Bernard Haitink:
open.spotify.com/album/0D1qXD7jAcNIKo6aQyO2VV?si=mEfnRXJ3QjqbzAmltanRiA

Sir Simon Rattle:
open.spotify.com/album/7t9tKznXuxySEFTWPTGQvO?si=1GopGQXyQqGR_V_ilJVuIA

Leonard Bernstein:
open.spotify.com/track/52kVfVkthirYU0lEzLazWY?si=2bd6c3c902ef4343

Nikolaus Harnoncourt:
open.spotify.com/album/1DgZ1qWpGuiNzd0a5ge7wn?si=WmaoIGlmTPeWmuTvKK1ndA

Jos Van Immerseel
open.spotify.com/track/7kgL0z2r8D6q0LupWPKgEi?si=35a8fc355939406b

Interesting videos:
Simon Rattle discussing Herbert Von Karajan: youtube.com/watch?v=5ceXbC9SF1E

The opening two chords of the Eroica: youtube.com/watch?v=UnhlQUBsd6g

If you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at: http://www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions: enquiries@pearlacoustics.com

Social media links:
facebook.com/PearlAcoustics
instagram.com/pearl.acoustics