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Kirk McElhearn

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The Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #304: Box SetsThe Grateful Dead released a big box set that Kirk will not buy, leading Doug and Kirk to discuss box sets of CDs. Help support The Next Track by making regular donations via Patreon. We're ad-free and self-sustaining so your support is what keeps us going. Thanks! ‌Show notes: Enjoying The Ride, Grateful Dead Grateful Dead Complete Europe ’72 Box Set New Live Release from Yes: Progeny, Seven Concerts from 1972 Why Box Sets Are Stuck in the Past Vinyl and packaging manufacturer, Key Production Group, reveals its predictions for vinyl and physical music releases in 2025 Stev...
2025-03-2629 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #291: Why Can't Concerts Be More Interesting?Kirk attended a unique concert recently, and Doug and Kirk discuss how concerts could be more interesting. Help support The Next Track by making regular donations via Patreon. We're ad-free and self-sustaining so your support is what keeps us going. Thanks! ‌Show notes: Episode #178 - Lieder and Opera Singer Ian Bostridge Winterreise review - agony and ecstasy as Bostridge and Drake bring Schubert’s song cycle to dramatic life Palladium Lone Star Cafe The Bottom Line Our next tracks: La Folia 1490-1701: Jordi Savall X: Smoke & Fiction If you like the show...
2024-09-2527 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #281: Kirk's New Audio GearKirk buys new audio gear for the first time in several years. Tech doesn't always work. Help support The Next Track by making regular donations via Patreon. We're ad-free and self-sustaining so your support is what keeps us going. Thanks! ‌Show notes: NAD C 3050 amplifier NAD BluOS module Cambridge Audio CXA61 amplifier Belkin SoundForm Connect AirPlay 2 Adapter CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock Our next tracks: Durutti Column: Vini Reilly 35th Anniversary Edition The Sex Pistols: The Original Recordings If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, an...
2024-05-0831 minPhotoActive
PhotoActiveKirk Simplifies with One CameraHe really went and did it. When Kirk decided to simplify his photography setup, he sold all of his Fujifilm cameras and lenses, put the Leica Q2 Monochrom up for sale, and bought a brand new Leica Q3. In this episode, we talk about the reasons behind such a drastic move and the advantages of simplifying your gear. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and...
2023-07-0735 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #185 - Use Plex to Manage Your Media LibraryPlex is a great way to manage your media library. Doug and Kirk discuss how they use it. Note: we recorded this episode before the lockdown began, but held off publishing it because we had a number of interviews with musicians in lockdown. Help support The Next Track by making regular donations via Patreon. We're ad-free and self-sustaining so your support is what keeps us going. Thanks! Support The Next Track. Show notes: Plex A Suitable Boy Our next tracks: Ustad Vilayat Khan: From the NCPA Archives The Pointer Sisters...
2020-06-1020 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #178 - Lieder and Opera Singer Ian BostridgeWe talk with Ian Bostridge, Kirk's second-favorite lieder singer, about life in lockdown, and about Schubert's Winterreise, the song cycle that Bostridge is best known for, through his many performances, recordings, films, and a book he wrote about it. Help support The Next Track by making regular donations via Patreon. We're ad-free and self-sustaining so your support is what keeps us going. Thanks! Support The Next Track. Guest: Ian Bostridge Show notes: Lieder (Wikipedia) Ian Bostridge – a life in music (Guardian) Ravel: Chansons madécasses Schubert's Winter Journey: Anatomy of an...
2020-04-1740 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #172 - Social Isolation and MusicThese are difficult times for many people, who are now required to stay at home. Music can help us get through this. In this "two guys not in a pub" episode, Doug and Kirk reflect on social isolation and music. Show notes: Bus-sized fatberg weighing 40 tonnes cleared from London sewer GrimeGran's Twitter feed The Dropkick Murphys - Streaming Up From Boston Royal Shakespeare Company in cinemas National Theatre Live Dead & Company YouTube channel (lots of videos, including full concerts) The Rolling Stones: Four Flicks The Berliner Philharmoniker's Digital Concert Hall Alex Ross's COVID-19 live streams list ...
2020-03-2530 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #168 - L'Affaire Sonos and Obsolescence in Audio EquipmentAndy Doe joins us again to discuss the perils of having software-controlled audio equipment. After the Affaire Sonos, when the company announced that a lot of its older products would become "obsolete," perhaps it's time to think more carefully about how long hardware we buy will last, when it depends on software. Guest: Andy Doe Show notes: Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance LSO Live Starting in May 2020, some of our oldest products will no longer receive software updates or new features. We want to explain why and your options. Sonos Recycling Program...
2020-01-2936 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #166 - Our Year in MusicFor the first episode of the new decade - the last one recorded in the previous decade - Doug and Kirk look back on their year in music. Show notes: Honkyoku (Kirk's shakuhachi website) The Zen of Everything (Kirk's podcast) Rode Procaster microphone Yamaha AG03 mixer Episode #147 - Kirk's New Sonos Amp KEF Q350 speakers Q Acoustics 3020I speakers Amazon Echo Dot Tivoli Audio model One Episode #162 - Apple's New Improved macOS Media Apps Doug's AppleScripts Time Out: We Don’t Give Music Enough Time to Grow on Us Anymore John Cale: Music for a New So...
2020-01-0234 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #162 - Apple's New Improved macOS Media AppsDoug and Kirk spend a half hour or so discussing Apple's new apps that replace iTunes on the Mac. They rant, they praise, they shrug, they laugh, and they reminisce on what was, while imaging what could have been. It was a very good year. Show notes: The iTunes Guy column on Macworld CarPlay Crashes Constantly in My Car The iTunes and Everything Apple forum on Audiophile Style Kirk's new book, Take Control of macOS Media Apps Poll: What Do You Think of the New macOS Media Apps that Replace iTunes? In Praise of the iTunes...
2019-11-0632 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #158 - What We Did this SummerDoug and Kirk discuss some audio-related projects they carried out this summer, new Sonos gear, streaming audio in the home, the iTunes visualizer, and more. Show notes: My New Vitsœ Shelves Have Freed Up Space in My Office Rams (documentary about Dieter Rams) Kef Q150 speakers Q Acoustics 3010i speakers Kirk's comfy chair is an older model from this brand, similar to this style. Sonos Move Sonos One SL Sonos Port Sonos Connect Kef LS 50 wireless speakers Netgear Orbi mesh wi-fi system Episode #136 - Breaking Up with iTunes? Episode #145 - The Future of iTunes Redux Episode #152...
2019-09-1229 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #147 - Kirk's New Sonos AmpKirk bought some new audio equipment: a Sonos Amp. We talk about how this amp works, and how it has allowed Kirk to minimalize the equipment in his home office. Show notes: Episode #21 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Subwoofers Sonos Amp Music Matters, Stratford-upon-Avon Yamaha R-N803 amplifier dbx 286s Microphone Preamp & Channel Strip Processor Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface Episode #134 - Downsizing Your Audio System Marantz Melody X (M-CR612) Kirk's Audio Test Tracks (AppleMusic playlist) Tangent CD II Cambridge Audio AZUR 651BD Our next tracks: J. J. Cale: Stay Around Mose Al...
2019-05-0327 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #144 - Cornelius Boots and His Bad-Ass ShakuhachiCornelius Boots is a bad-ass shakuhachi player, and Kirk's second shakuhachi teacher. Cornelius is a composer, performer, and teachers, and has just released his third album of original compositions. Guest: Cornelius Boots Sacred Root: Kung Fu Flute & Buddhist Blues (Shakuhachi Unleashed, Vol. III) Green Swampy Water (video) Show notes: Episode #96 - Kiku Day Explains the Shakuhachi Taimu shakuhachi by Ken LaCosse Ney flute (Wikipedia) Bansuri flute (Wikipedia) Our next tracks: Chiku Za: Take To Iki T. Rex: The Slider If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite...
2019-04-1232 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #143 - Too Old to Rock 'n RollLots of big rock stars are getting old. How much longer will these musicians be able to perform and tour? Show notes: Since we recorded this episode, we found out what was wrong with Mick: Mick Jagger recovers in hospital after undergoing successful heart surgery Kirk said musicians playing in arenas and studios; obviously he meant stadiums; or stadia, if you want to be pedantic Cruise to the Edge Jam Cruise 27 Rockers Going Strong After 70 Ages of Rock Stars Eric Clapton Crossroads Festival Pete Townshend and Roger Daltry plug album + tour The Ship of Theseus ...
2019-04-0529 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #142 - Why Wi-Fi Is Important for Your Home Media UseMost people depend on wi-fi to get data from one device to another in their home. This is the case for music and video, and having good wi-fi ensures that you can enjoy your home media without any glitches. Show notes: Kirk's review of the NetGear Orbi Wi-Fi SweetSpots AirPort (Wikipedia); look for the photo of the first AirPort base station NetGear Orbi outdoor unit Our next tracks: Iron & Wine: Around the Well The Greatest! Count Basie Plays, Joe Williams Sings Standards If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your...
2019-03-2926 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #139 - In Which We Bid FarewellIt's been a long, strange trip, and it's time to get truckin' on. Show notes: Doug's website Kirk's website Thanks for helping make this a wonderful adventure. See you all again somewhere.Support The Next Track
2019-01-1404 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #137 - How Do You Create a "Music Social Network?"Apple has killed off its second attempt at a "music social network," Connect, which was part of Apple Music. We ponder what it would take to create a useful music social network. Show notes: Discogs iTunes Features That Have Been Retired Episode #60 – Geoff Edgers on the Slow Death of the Electric Guitar The Classical Music Recordings Discussion Group (Facebook) How to Share Your Listening History in Apple Music Doug's profile on Apple Music Kirk's profile on Apple Music Our next tracks: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel; two-disc CD Steppenwolf: All Time Greatest Hits If yo...
2018-12-2832 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #135 - Christmas Gift GuideDoug and Kirk make a list, and check it twice, presenting some ideas for music-related Christmas gifts. Show notes: Episode #130 - Desert Island Discs, Part 1 Episode #133 - Desert Island Discs, Part 2 Angle plugs Banana plugs TwelveSouth BackPack for iMac iTunes gift cards for Apple Music Technics SL-1210 MK2 turntable IsoAcoustics speaker stands Behringer U-Phono UFO202 Audiophile USB/Audio Interface with Built-in Phono Preamp Bach 333 Mozart 225 Bach 333: Amazon.com, $523: Amazon UK: £400, Amazon FR, €384 Bloom: 10 Worlds Sonos One Apple HomePod Compared to Sonos One Sony CDP-CX355 Mega Storage Compact Disc 300 CD Changer Player If you like the sho...
2018-12-1431 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #133 - Desert Island Discs, Part 2Doug and Kirk have made lists of their ten desert island discs, and, in part one of a two-part series, we hear Doug's picks. Check out Episode #130 - Desert Island Discs, Part 1 to hear Kirk's picks. Show notes: Doug's ten desert island discs (links to Apple Music, except for Exposure which isn't streamable): The Clash: London Calling The Rolling Stones: Get Yer Ya Yas Out! Humble Pie: Performance Rockin' the Fillmore Lucinda Williams: Car Wheels on a Gravel Road Fats Waller: Greatest Hits JS Bach: The Brandenburg Concertos Fatboy Slim: You've Come a Long...
2018-11-3030 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #130 - Desert Island Discs, Part 1Doug and Kirk have made lists of their ten desert island discs, and, in part one of a two-part series, we hear Kirk's picks. Show notes: Kirk's ten desert island discs (links to Apple Music): Hume: Musicall Humours, Jordi Savall Bach: Goldberg Variations, Andras Schiff Schubert: Piano Sonata no. 21, D960, Maria Joao Pires Miles Davis: Kind of Blue Grateful Dead: American Beauty Budd/Eno: Ambient 2: The Plateaux of Mirror Reich: Music for 18 Musicians (1978 ECM recording) Bob Dylan: Blood on the Tracks Durutti Column: LC Feldman: Piano and String Quartet, Kronos Quartet, Aki Takahashi
2018-11-0926 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #117 - Back from VacationDoug and Kirk took a week off. They are back to discuss their music listening during that week, and more. Show notes: PhotoActive: a podcast about photography and the Apple ecosystem Richard Russo: Nobody's Fool, Everybody's Fool Nobody's Fool (movie) Anthony Powell: A Dance to the Music of Time (book; part one of four); A Dance to the Music of Time: First Movement (audiobook; part one of four) Episode #93 – Simon Vance on Narrating Audiobooks Coming Soon: An Even Bigger Classical Box Set, Bach 333 Our next tracks: András Schiff Plays Schubert on an 1820 Fortepiano BR5...
2018-08-1030 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #110 - Requiem for the StereoIs the home stereo dead? It certainly looks like it. Show notes: Carvel Radio Shack Realistic (Wikipedia) Wollensak (Wikipedia) Goliath Bosch The Good Fight Sonos Beam The Best Stereo Receiver (Wirecutter) Sonos One (In the show, Kirk mentioned the Play:1, but that's not the model that will support AirPlay 2; it's the newer Sonos One. Their products are a bit confusing.) Stand for Sonos Play:1 Sonos Play: 5 Focal Chorus 705 Our next tracks: Grateful Dead: Dave's Picks Vol. 26 Cake: B-Sides and Rarities Support The Next Track
2018-06-2234 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #108 - Buying RecordsDoug and Kirk wax nostalgic about buying records: what was so nice about browsing record stores, and what are we missing. Show notes: Andy Doe shows how to open any kind of CD. Episode #89 – Too Much Music; James Jackson Toth’s Failed Experiment Delete Tracks Never Played AppleScript MusicWeb International E. J. Korvette (Wikipedia) Sam Goody (Wikipedia) Collecting Music in an Analog Age Morris Levy (Wikipedia) PhotoActive: a podcast about photography and the Apple ecosystem Franz Schubert: The Complete Songs, Hyperion Records Newbury Comics Musical Heritage Society (Wikipedia) Our next tracks: John Foxx: Metamatic (3CD v...
2018-06-0837 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #106 - Music in Your Head: Listening to Music on HeadphonesDoug and Kirk discuss headphones: the pros and cons of listening to music on headphones, and the different types of headphones you can use to listen to music. Show notes: RadioShack Grado The Headphones I Use (Updated) Grado Prestige Series SR325e Headphones Binaural recording (Wikipedia) Awesome binaural albums (thread on the Head-Fi forum) Head-Fi forum Our Headphones: The headphones that Doug and Kirk use when recording podcasts: Doug: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones Kirk: AKG K702 Reference Open-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones Our next tracks: Railroad Earth: Elko Bob Marley...
2018-05-2534 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #104 - The Future of iTunesDoug and Kirk discuss the future of iTunes. What effect will streaming and Apple's forthcoming video service have on iTunes? Will it split into several apps? Will it still be called iTunes? Show notes: The Great Disappointment (Wikipedia) Less or fewer One space between each sentence, they said. Science just proved them wrong. Focal Sony's "high-resolution capable" Bluetooth speaker The big music labels are selling big chunks of their Spotify stakes Will Music Streaming Ever Be Profitable? Our next tracks: Frank Sinatra: Standing Room Only Rank and File: Sundown If you like the sh...
2018-05-1132 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #102 - SilenceDoug and Kirk discuss silence: how it is important in music, between pieces of music, around music, and on its own. Show notes: Listen Different: Add Silence to your iTunes and iPod Playlists High-Resolution Silence A Space Between AppleScript Robert J. Lertsema (Wikipedia) Bis Records John Cage: 4'33" (Wikipedia) John Cage: 4'33" score Episode #80 – John Cage John Cage and the Anechoic Chamber Einojuhani Rautavaara: Cantus Arcticus (Apple Music) Jackson Browne: Solo Acoustic Vol. 1 & 2 Bruce Springsteen; 3/19/96, Belfast, Northern Ireland Bob Dylan: Like a Rolling Stone (Judas) Side Splitter AppleScript Miles Davis: Kind of Blue Our next tr...
2018-04-2733 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #100 - How We Listen to Music TodayFor the 100th episode, Doug and Kirk discuss how they listen to music today, and how their music listening has changed in the two years they've been producing this podcast. Show notes: Episode #90 – Liz Pelly on Streaming Muzak and Playlists Episode #85 – How Much Music Is Too Much? Episode #89 – Too Much Music; James Jackson Toth’s Failed Experiment Record Labels Splitting Long Tracks into Multiple Tracks to Maximize Streaming Income Episode #69 – Brian Brandt of Mode Records on John Cage, Morton Feldman, and the Music Business Episode #1 – Songs to Albums to Songs Episode #2 – To Stream or to Own Music? Our...
2018-04-1332 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #94 – Do Classical Record Labels Make Money?People often wonder if classical record labels make money. We asked Andy Doe, who has a lot of experience in the classical record business, and he explains how the business works. This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord Show notes: Naxos Records Colin Currie Group harmonia mundi Artists and repertoire (A&R) – Wikipedia The Philharmonia Orchestra Berlioz: Les Troyens Many of the Karajan albums with “interesting” covers can be seen on this page on Amazon UK. ♫ Episode #46 – Percussionist Colin Currie on Performing and Recording Steve Reich’s Drumming Our next tracks: Kirk: Steve Re...
2018-03-0241 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #93 – Simon Vance on Narrating AudiobooksIf you’re an audiobook listener, you will probably recognize this voice. We welcome Simon Vance, one of the most widely appreciated narrator of audiobooks. He discusses what it involves to record audiobooks, and how the audiobook industry works. This week’s guest: Simon Vance Show notes: Audiofile Magazine Simon Vance’s award winning audiobooks (Audiofile) Audies Audible.com (Try Audible and get two free audiobooks) Audible UK (Free trial) Anthony Powell: A Dance to the Music of Time (first of four volumes) A Dance to the Music of Time (DVD) Alan Moore: Jerusalem Willia...
2018-02-2344 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #92 – How They Listen to Music: Chuck Joiner, PodcasterPodcaster Chuck Joiner talks to us about how he listens to music: which sources he uses, how he chooses what to listen to, and what equipment he uses. This week’s guest: Chuck Joiner, the MacVoices podcast Show notes: Audion Sonos speakers Apple AirPods JBL Flip 4 waterproof speaker Brian Eno: Nerve Net Episode #89 – Too Much Music; James Jackson Toth’s Failed Experiment View Cached Music AppleScript Apple HomePod https://www.kirkville.com/how-to-use-apple-musics-personal-dj-feature-to-create-you-own-personal-radio-station/ Our next tracks: Kirk: Creedence Clearwater Revival: Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits Doug: Dread Zeppelin: Bar Coda If you like t...
2018-02-1633 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #91 – The Apple HomePod Sounds Great, Except When it Doesn’tKirk got his HomePod. He spent a couple of hours listening to music to judge the sound quality. In short, it sounds great at times, but at others it doesn’t. Sponsor: ChronoSync, by Econ Technologies. Whatever your backup or sync scenario, ChronoSync has got you covered! Download a free 15-day trial version, and get 25% off ChronoSync on the Econ Technologies website. Show notes: Wrapping it right: In praise of Apple’s packaging Sonos PLAY:5 Cambridge Audio Minx Air 100 Coldplay: The Scientist Bob Dylan: Cold Irons Bound Talking Heads: I Zimbra Brian Eno: Just Anot...
2018-02-0932 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #90 – Liz Pelly on Streaming Muzak and PlaylistsJournalist Liz Pelly talks about streaming muzak, Spotify, playlists, and the future of streaming. This week’s guest: Liz Pelly Liz Pelly’s newsletter Show notes: The Problem with Muzak The Secret Lives of Playlists Future of Music Coalition Episode #89 – Too Much Music; James Jackson Toth’s Failed Experiment U.S. Copyright Authorities to Make Subscription Music Services Increase Payout Rate to Publishers and Musicians Topsify Filtr Digster Hands On: iTunes 10’s Ping feature Merlin Music fans bought a lot of cassettes last year Our next tracks: Kirk: Nils Frahm: All Melody Doug: Ten...
2018-02-0243 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #89 – Too Much Music; James Jackson Toth’s Failed ExperimentMusician and journalist James Jackson Toth launched an experiment in dedicated listening; sitting and listening attentively to just one album a week. He failed. He tells us why, and how we may have too much music to listen to. You stop hearing music at a certain point and you start hearing decisions. This week’s guest: James Jackson Toth, Wooden Wand Show notes: Too Much Music: A Failed Experiment In Dedicated Listening Episode #85 – How Much Music Is Too Much? Brian Eno: Nerve Net (Expanded Edition) The Cure: Pornography Jeffrey Lewis Douglas Rushkoff: Pres...
2018-01-2637 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #88 – Buying and Selling Hi-Fi EquipmentBuying and selling hi-fi equipment can be fraught with problems. Chris Connaker joins us to talk about the situation, and to present his new venture, Superphonica, a platform for buying and selling audio goods. Sponsor: ChronoSync, by Econ Technologies. Whatever your backup or sync scenario, ChronoSync has got you covered! Download a free 15-day trial version, and get 25% off ChronoSync on the Econ Technologies website. This week’s guest: Chris Connaker, of the Computer Audiophile website Superphonica Show notes: @NextTrackCast Audiophilia Forever: An Expensive New Year’s Shopping Guide Readly Schitt Audio Epis...
2018-01-1936 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #87 – Pitch, Tuning, and TemperamentWhat is pitch? How do instruments play in tune with each other? How do instruments tune, and what is temperament? Andy Doe explains all this. Show notes: Pitch (Wikipedia) Bach: 6 Suites for Cello Solo, Peter Wispelwey Music tuning (Wikipedia) Musical temperament (Wikipedia) Pythagoras (Wikipedia) Pythagorean tuning (Wikipedia) Meantone temperament (Wikipedia) Online recordings with unequal temperaments Britten: Saint Nicolas, King’s College Choir 1615, Gabrieli in Venice, King’s College Choir Our next tracks: Kirk: Bach: Well-Tempered Clavier, Ralph Kirkpatrick, clavichord Doug: David Bowie: Let’s Dance (Demo Single) If you like the show...
2018-01-1234 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #86 – New Year’s ResolutionsAs the new year rings in, we take a look at our music listening habits and think about how we may want to change them. Show notes: SwinsianRoon PlexTidalQobuzEssential Bollywood playlistThe A-List: K-PopOur next tracks: Kirk: Daniel Lanois: For the Beauty of Wynona Doug: The Bryan Ferry Orchestra: The Jazz Age If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.Support The Next Track
2018-01-0532 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #85 – How Much Music Is Too Much?As we amass music in our physical or digital libraries, it can reach a point where it doesn’t make sense to keep adding more music. How much really is too much? Sponsor: ChronoSync, by Econ Technologies. Whatever your backup or sync scenario, ChronoSync has got you covered! Download a free 15-day trial version, and get 25% off ChronoSync on the Econ Technologies website. Show notes: Play Random Albums AppleScript Collecting Music in an Analog Age High Fidelity The Deadhead’s Taping Compendium, Volume 1: An In-Depth Guide to the Music of the Grateful Dead on Tape...
2017-12-2937 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #84 – Ask Doug and Kirk: AirPods, Ripping Optical Discs, and Moving iTunes LibrariesWe answer a few listener questions about Apple’s AirPods, how to rip optical discs (other than CDs), and moving and merging iTunes libraries. Sponsor: ChronoSync, by Econ Technologies. Whatever your backup or sync scenario, ChronoSync has got you covered! Download a free 15-day trial version, and get 25% off ChronoSync on the Econ Technologies website. Show notes: Apple AirPods Sennheiser PX 100-II i headphones Episode #57 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Optical Discs iTunes Now Hides CD Action Settings if No Optical Drive Is Detected Rip audio tracks from your DVDs How to rip...
2017-12-2234 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #83 – Daniel Spreadbury on Music Notation SoftwareWe welcome Daniel Spreadbury to discuss the software that composers use to put their notes onto virtual paper. This week’s guest: Daniel Spreadbury, Dorico Dorico Show notes: Sibelius ARM processor An original score of a fugue by Johann Sebastian Bach A score by William Byrd German organ tablature French-style lute tablature Bach’s unfinished fugue Real book Newzik A shakuhachi score Our next tracks: Kirk: Stan Richardson: Shakuhachi Meditation Music Doug: 10cc: Sheet Music If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate...
2017-12-1536 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #82 – Let It SnowAs winter closes in, and the holiday season approaches, we discuss the strange ritual of listening to Christmas music for just one month a year. There’s got to be a German word for this. It’s that feeling, that first second, when you heard Jingle Bells in the middle of summer. Show notes: Episode #58 – David Weigel on the History of Progressive Rock Trio Mediaeval: Folk Songs Bruce Springsteen: Santa Claus is Coming to Town Do They Know It’s Christmas We Are the World Bob Dylan: Christmas in the Heart Bob Dylan: Must Be Santa...
2017-12-0833 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #81 – Ask Andy: Ohms and DecibelsWe bring back our regular guest Andy Doe to discuss some of the technical terms we read about with audio equipment: Ω and dB, also known as ohms and decibels. This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord Show notes: Ohm (Wikipedia) Resistor color code chart Episode #73 – Kirk Wants to Buy an Amplifier Decibel (Wikipedia) Comparative Examples Of Noise Levels dB SPL dBFS (Wikipedia) Episode #35 – Musician and Developer Peter Chilvers on Brian Eno’s Album and App Reflection Our next tracks: Kirk: Brian Eno: Another Green World Doug: Dixie Dregs: What If If you lik...
2017-12-0129 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #80 – John CageWe welcome Laura Kuhn, executive director of the John Cage Trust, to discuss the life and legacy of composer John Cage. “I am most interested in music that doesn’t say anything.” John Cage, 1991 This week’s guest: Laura Kuhn, executive director of the John Cage Trust Show notes: The Selected Letters of John Cage John Cage Unbound: A Living Archive (New York Public Library) Episode #69 – Brian Brandt of Mode Records on John Cage, Morton Feldman, and the Music Business Diary: How To Improve The World (You Will Only Make Matters Worse) (1991) John Cage...
2017-11-2446 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #79 – 1977Doug and Kirk look at how 1977 was a watershed year for popular music. Show notes: ECM Records Now Available on Apple Music Eagles: Hotel California Billy Joel: The Stranger Sex Pistols: Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols The Clash: The Clash (UK version) The Clash: Give ’em Enough Rope The Clash: The Clash (US version) Four Manchester bands we owe to the Sex Pistols’ Lesser Free Trade Hall gig 40 years ago Elvis Costello: My Aim is True Elvis Costello: Less Than Zero > Radio, Radio on Saturday Night Live Saturday Night Fever Episod...
2017-11-1730 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #78 – Alexander Joel on the Role of the Conductor in Classical MusicConductor Alexander Joel talks about the profession of conductor for operas and orchestras. This week’s guest: Alexander Joel Repertoire Show notes: Alexander Joel’s Wagner Ring cycle, Hessisches Staatstheater Wiesbaden Alexander Joel on Operabase ARTE TV story about Alexander Joel (in German) Video of Alexander Joel conducting Verdi’s La Traviata Conductor killed by conducting staff: The ironic death of Jean-Baptiste Lully Our next tracks: Kirk: Tuxedomoon: Desire Doug: Mountain: Climbing If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.S...
2017-11-1035 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #77 – How to Get the Most out of Apple MusicDoug and Kirk discuss Apple Music, how it’s changed the way they listen to music, and how to get the most out of the service. Show notes: Chris Breen Bach: French Suites, by Murray Perahia Our next tracks: Kirk: Cage / Lutoslawski: String Quartets, Lasalle Quartet Doug: Greta Van Fleet: Black Smoke Rising If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.Support The Next Track
2017-11-0331 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #76 – Mirror Balls and Polyester: Looking Back at Disco MusicDoug and Kirk were teenagers when disco hit. They didn’t care for it then, but has their opinion change after 40 years? Is it time to reevaluate disco music? Show notes: Chic: Good Times (12″ version) The Joy of Disco – BBC Documentary Marvin Gaye: What’s Going On Saturday Night Fever New York City blackout, July 13, 1977 Son of Sam Jumping the shark Why ‘Disco sucks!’ sucked Disco Demolition Night Saturday Night Fever soundtrack Readers’ Poll: The Best Disco Songs of All Time Apple Music: Essential Disco Hits Our next tracks: Kirk: Lounge Lizards: The Lounge Lizards Doug...
2017-10-2732 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #75 – Movies about Music, Part 2: DocumentariesDoug and Kirk discuss their favorite music documentaries. Show notes: Synth Britannia (YouTube) Synth Britannia (BBC) Rock Family Trees (BBC) Episode #58 – David Weigel on the History of Progressive Rock Rock Family Trees (book) Sinatra: All or Nothing at All Long Strange Trip History of the Eagles No Direction Home: Bob Dylan Bob Dylan: No Direction Home, The Bootleg Series Vol. 7 The Wrecking Crew Gimme Shelter Sam Cutler: You Can’t Always Get What You Want: My Life with the Rolling Stones, the Grateful Dead and Other Wonderful Reprobates Bach: A Passionate Life Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chas...
2017-10-2035 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #74 – Jeffrey Norman on Restoring, Mixing, and Mastering the Grateful DeadWe welcome Jeffrey Norman, who has been mixing, mastering, and restoring Grateful Dead recordings for more than 35 years. This week’s guest: Jeffrey Norman: Mockingbird Mastering Jeffrey Norman’s project list Show notes: Mid-side (MS) recording technique Owsley Stanley (Bear) What’s Become of the Bettys? The Fate of the Long-Lost Grateful Dead Soundboards Episode #67 – The Grateful Dead’s Legendary 5/8/77 Cornell Concert, with Author Peter Conners Plangent Process The Grateful Dead’s Europe ’72 box set Long Strange Trip Kirk’s Next Track pick of the Doc & Merle Watson release – Episode #70 – Movies about Music, Part 1: Fiction Owsley Stan...
2017-10-1337 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #73 – Kirk Wants to Buy an AmplifierAndy Doe helps Kirk and Doug understand “make louder boxes.” This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord “You are experiencing audio ennui.” Show notes: Yamaha R-N301 network receiver Recommended Components: Fall 2017 Edition Integrated Amps & Receivers Richer Sounds Grado headphones Episode #71 – Hi-Fi Separates, Part 1: Network Streamers Bentley Continental One note about the musical Girl From the North Country. Between the recording and release of this podcast, the show will transfer to the Noel Coward Theatre in London for 12 weeks, from December 29. See it if you can. Our next tracks: Kirk: Gi...
2017-10-0633 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #72 – What’s New in iTunes 12.7Doug and Kirk take a close look at changes Apple has made to iTunes in its latest version, 12.7. Sponsor: Rogue Ameoba’s Audio Hijack. If you can hear it on your Mac, you can record it with Audio Hijack. Download the free trial from Rogue Amoeba, then save 20% with coupon code NEXTTRACK. Check out Audio Hijack now. Show notes: This Is Where iTunes Is Bloated What’s New in iTunes 12.7 Here’s Why Removing Apps from iTunes Is Stupid How to Copy Apps, Ringtones, and Files to Your iOS Devices with iTunes 12.7 Script...
2017-09-2932 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #71 – Hi-Fi Separates, Part 1: Network StreamersChris Connaker joins us to talk about hi-fi separates. Today, we discuss the network streamer. How does it work? Do you need one? This week’s guest: Chris Connaker, of the Computer Audiophile website Show notes: Yamaha R-N301 network receiver Episode #32 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about DACs (Digital-Analog Converters) Auralic Aries Mini Chris’s review of the Auralic Aries Mini Bosch, on Amazon Prime Video Manchester Rock (Apple Music playlist) Our next tracks: Kirk: Art Pepper: The Complete Maiden Voyage Concerts (Apple Music) Doug: Electronic: Electronic If you like the sh...
2017-09-2232 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #70 – Movies about Music, Part 1: FictionDoug and Kirk chat about their favorite movies about music, and some that they don’t like. This is the first of three parts; the other parts will be released in the next couple of months. Show notes: Almost Famous (The Bootleg Cut) The Almost Famous Stairway to Heaven scene Almost Famous: the Tiny Dancer scene 24 Hour Party People Control High Fidelity Still Crazy Amadeus (I said I saw the play Monday; that was a mistake, I saw it last January.) A Late Quartet Episode #20 – You Think You Know about the Blues? Eliah Wald on the Hist...
2017-09-1533 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #69 – Brian Brandt of Mode Records on John Cage, Morton Feldman, and the Music BusinessWe talk with Brian Brandt of Mode Records about releasing recordings of avant garde music, and the difficulties of the music business. Apologies for the audio quality of this episode. We had endless Skype issues for this interview. This week’s guest: Mode Records Show notes: John Cage Edition Morton Feldman Edition Morton Feldman: String Quartet No. 2 Episode #66 – Minimalist Pianist R. Andrew Lee Episode #48 – Musician Dave Harrington of DARKSIDE and the Dave Harrington Group on Music Between Genres Our next tracks: Kirk: LCD Soundsystem: American Dream Doug: The Knack: Get The Kn...
2017-09-0837 minThe Next Track
The Next TrackEpisode #68 – Hi-Fi Snake Oil, Part 1: CablesAndy Doe joins us to discuss hi-fi snake oil. In part one of a two-part series, we look at cables. This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord Show notes: A Gift for Music Lovers Who Have It All: A Personal Utility Pole UL Listed Hospital Grade Receptacles How Hi-Fi Magazines Write about Cables, Part 14: Ethernet Cables Ethernet Our next tracks: Kirk: Iron & Wine: Beast Epic Doug: Big Audio Dynamite: No. 10, Upping Street If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the po...
2017-09-0131 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #67 – The Grateful Dead’s Legendary 5/8/77 Cornell Concert, with Author Peter ConnersAuthor Peter Conners tells us the story of the legendary 5/8/77 Grateful Dead concert at Barton Hall, Cornell University, and its legacy. A technical note: you may have noticed that your podcast app re-downloaded a bunch of old episodes last week. We moved the server that hosts The Next Track to HTTPS, and this seems to have treated all existing episodes as new. So we’re very sorry for any extra bandwidth you may have used. Note that iTunes also seems to have redownloaded them, so you may have duplicate audio files for some episodes; check your media fo...
2017-08-2535 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #66 – Minimalist Pianist R. Andrew LeePianist R. Andrew Lee joins us to discuss the minimal, and often very long, works of music he performs and records. (Sorry about the audio quality; there were some problems recording this episode.) This week’s guest: R. Andrew Lee Show notes: Irritable Hedgehog Records Episode #18 – New Yorker Music Critic Alex Ross Discusses Listening to Classical Music Tom Johnson: An Hour for Piano, performed by Frederic Rzewski Dennis Johnson: November The Four Pillars Appearing from The Equal D under Resonating Apparitions of The Eternal Process in The Midwinter Starfield 16 VIII 10 (Kansas City) Ou...
2017-08-1831 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #65 – Pass the Remote ControlDoug and Kirk express frustration about the number of complexity of remote controls they use. Show notes: All 165 Pink Floyd Songs Ranked, From Worst to Best – Bill Wyman Episode #64 – Album Artwork in Digital Files Logitech Harmony Ultimate Remote Philips Hue lights The Clash – Remote Control Our next tracks: Kirk: Theatre of Hate: The Live Albums Doug: John Lee Hooker & Canned Heat: Hooker ‘n Heat If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.Support The Next Track
2017-08-1130 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #64 – Album Artwork in Digital FilesDoug and Kirk tell you everything you ever wanted to know about album artwork in digital files. Sponsor: Rogue Ameoba’s Loopback. For cable-free audio routing when recording and playing audio on your Mac, use Loopback. Download the free trial from Rogue Amoeba, then save 20% with coupon code NEXTTRACK. Check out Loopback now. Show notes: Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes Size of Artwork Sort by Artwork Size iTunes Artwork Finder ImageOptim Deleting the iTunes Album Artwork Cache Folder May Resolve Problems with Album Art Displaying Is Artwork Embedded Tracks Without Embe...
2017-08-0430 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #63 – Will Romano on Yes’s Close to the Edge, the Seminal Prog Rock AlbumAuthor Will Romano discusses his new book, Close to the Edge, How Yes’s Masterpiece Defined Prog Rock. This week’s guest: Will Romano Show notes: Close to the Edge Close to the Edge: How Yes’s Masterpiece Defined Prog Rock Mountains Come Out of the Sky: The Illustrated History of Prog Rock Prog Rock FAQ: All That’s Left to Know About Rock’s Most Progressive Music Episode #58 – David Weigel on the History of Progressive Rock Our next tracks: Kirk: Genesis: Foxtrot Doug: Yes: Yessongs If you like the show, pl...
2017-07-2835 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #62 – Simple and Elaborate Audio Systems – How Many Devices Can You Have in Your Audio Chain?Chris Connaker joins us to discuss simple and elaborate audio systems. How many devices can you have in your audio chain? Chris surprises us with some of his. This week’s guest: Chris Connaker, of the Computer Audiophile website Show notes: Audiophiles in Japan are installing their own electricity poles dCS Linear power supplies Cable lifters? Screw-in pointy things IsoAcoustic speaker stands Gear acquisition syndrome A Beginners’ Guide To Acoustic Treatment Feng shui Our next tracks: Kirk: Matthias Goerne: Schubert Lieder Doug: Status Quo; The Last Night of the Electrics If you...
2017-07-2131 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #61 – Traditions and Etiquette in Classical Concerts – Applause, Encores, Curtain Calls, and the Bravo GuyWe ask Andy Doe why classical concerts have such rigid traditions and etiquette regarding audience reactions. And we discuss the Bravo Guy, present at concert halls around the world. Note: We apologize that this episode runs a bit longer than usual, but it was too interesting and too much fun to cut. This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord Show notes: Murray Perahia and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, April 5, 2017 András Schiff – Beethoven, the 32 Sonatas András Schiff – Encores After Beethoven In 27 Pieces: The Hilary Hahn Encores The rule...
2017-07-1437 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #60 – Geoff Edgers on the Slow Death of the Electric GuitarJournalist Geoff Edgers joins us to discuss his Washington Post article about the slow death of the electric guitar. Sponsor: Rogue Ameoba’s Audio Hijack. If you can hear it on your Mac, you can record it with Audio Hijack. Download the free trial from Rogue Amoeba, then save 20% with coupon code NEXTTRACK. Check out Audio Hijack now. This week’s guest: Geoff Edgers on the Washington Post Show notes: Why my guitar gently weeps – The slow, secret death of the six-string electric. And why you should care. How Much Did Th...
2017-07-0732 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #59 – 1967 and the Summer of LoveWe take a look back at the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love, in 1967. One correction. I said that Bob Dylan didn’t release any albums in 1967. That’s false; John Wesley Harding was released on December 27 of that year. Summer of Love The Monterey Pop Festival The Acid Tests Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival Newport Jazz Festival Newport Folk Festival The Complete Monterey Pop Festival (film) Long Strange Trip Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band – Super Deluxe Ed Events of 1967 Our World Magical Mystery Tour 1967 in Film 1967 in Music Our next...
2017-06-3028 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #58 – David Weigel on the History of Progressive RockAuthor David Weigel joins us to discuss his book The Show That Never Ends: The Rise and Fall of Prog Rock. This week’s guest: Dave Weigel’s website David Weigel’s writing on the Washington Post Show notes: The Show that Never Ends: The Rise and Fall of Prog Rock Dave Weigel’s Prog Spring series on Slate Mark Prindle’s record reviews King Crimson: In the Court of the Crimson King Wollman Skating Rink New York Concert Setlists Tangerine Dream: Encore: Live Our next tracks: Kirk: Yes: Close to the Edge Doug...
2017-06-2334 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #57 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Optical DiscsAndy Doe joins us to take a close look at optical discs: CDs, DVDs, Blu-Rays, but also HDCDs, DVD-As, and more. I bet you didn’t know how many kinds of optical disc there are… “It is the betamax of audio formats…” Show notes: Optical disc – Wikipedia Compact disc – Wikipedia Compact Disc Digital Audio – Wikipedia Close to the Edge Nyquist frequency – Wikipedia 44,100 Hz – Wikipedia Error detection and correction Pulse-code modulation Super Audio CD Hybrid disc DVD-Audio Mode Records DVD-A releases High Fidelity Pure Audio (Blu-Ray Audio) HDCD Grateful Dead Cambridge Audio 651BD Compressed audio optical disc (MP3 CD...
2017-06-1633 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #56 – Playlists in iTunesWe take a close look at iTunes playlists, how they work, what you can do with them, and how you can bend them to your will. Sponsor: Rogue Ameoba’s Audio Hijack. If you can hear it on your Mac, you can record it with Audio Hijack. Download the free trial from Rogue Amoeba, then save 20% with coupon code NEXTTRACK. Check out Audio Hijack now. Show notes: Episode #49 – Common Misconceptions about iTunes Model-view-controller (Wikipedia) Understanding iTunes Library Files iTunes playlist windows are back AppleScripts mentioned: Delete Empty Playlists Merge-Delete Playlists Smar...
2017-06-0931 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #55 – Chris Connaker Shares His Favorites from the Munich High End Audio ShowChris Connaker, of ComputerAudiophile.com, joins us to talk about the most interesting audio hardware he saw – and heard – at this year’s Munich High End Audio Show. This week’s guest: Chris Connaker, of the Computer Audiophile website Show notes: High End Munich Focal Grand Utopia EM speakers Focal Utopia headphones McIntosh Constellation Audio Leo Devialet Phantom speaker Marten Coltrane 3 Elac Adante speakers DCS Vivaldi DAC Innuos music servers Audeze LCDi4 in-ear earphone Our next tracks: Kirk: Penguin Café: The Imperfect Sea Doug: Jimmy Smith: Root Down If you like the show...
2017-06-0232 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #54 – Guitarist Woody Mann Talks about His Documentary on the Life of Rev. Gary DavisGuitarist Woody Mann joins us to discuss his documentary about the life of the great blues and gospel musician Rev. Gary Davis. This week’s guest: Woody Mann Show notes: Harlem Street Singer (documentary) Harlem Street Singer (album) Empire Roots Band – music from the documentary Harlem Street Singer Students of Rev. Gary Davis Say No to the Devil: The Life and Musical Genius of Rev. Gary Davis, Ian Zack Hot Tuna – First Pull Up, Then Pull Down Our next tracks: Kirk: Brad Mehldau: Songs: The Art of the Trio, Vol. 3 Doug: The Regret...
2017-05-2635 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #53 – Bob Dylan’s Never Ending TourWe welcome author and Dylanologist Andrew Muir to talk about Bob Dylan’s Never Ending Tour, and his recent concerts in the UK. Just a quick note: we’ve posted a brief survey about The Next Track, and we would love it if you could take the two minutes to answer a dozen questions about the podcast, how you listen, what you like, and feel free to suggest any topics you’d like us to cover. This week’s guest: Andrew Muir Show notes: One More Night: Bob Dylan’s Never Ending Tour Bob...
2017-05-1937 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #50 – Streaming Music in Your HomeDeveloper Paul Kafasis joins us to discuss in-house streaming: AirPlay, Bluetooth, and Google Cast. This week’s guest: Paul Kafasis of Rogue Amoeba Software Show notes: Episode #43 – Streaming Music 2.0 Episode #47 – 10 Ways to Connect Your Computer to Your Stereo Kirk’s Yamaha R-N301 Rogue Amoeba’s AirFoil Google Chromecast Our next tracks: Kirk: Moody Blues: Days of Future Passed Doug: David Lindley: El Rayo-X If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.Special Guest: Paul Kafasis.Support The Next T
2017-04-2834 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #49 – Common Misconceptions about iTunesDoug and Kirk take a look at common misconceptions people have about iTunes. iTunes is just a database. Show notes: Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes Kirkville Missing Tracks and Stray Files How to Set Up iTunes as a Minimalist Music Player Our next tracks: Kirk: Vinyl . Album . Cover . Art – The Complete Hipgnosis Catalogue (Not released in the US until May 16.) Doug: The Baja Marimba Band: Those Were The Days If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast.Su...
2017-04-2129 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #45 – Ask Andy, Hi-Fi Equipment and Speaker PlacementWe welcome Andy Doe for another Ask Andy episode, where we discuss hi-fi equipment and speaker placement. “If you have a valuable disc, always use a brand-new needle.” This week’s guest: Andy Doe Proper Discord Show notes: Episode #41 – Whatever Became of EQ? The Master Set speaker placement system (PDF file) Kirk’s Doctor Evil chair (and cat): Our next tracks: Kirk: Soundbreaking: Stories from the Cutting Edge of Recorded Music Doug: Rolling Stones: 12 x 5 If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast ap...
2017-03-2433 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #39 – Storing Media on a Network-Attached Storage DeviceDoug and Kirk discuss storing a media library on a network-attached storage device. We focus on using a NAS with iTunes, but there’s some useful information for those using a NAS with other media software. Show notes: WD MyCloud EX2 Plex Doug’s Launch at Login applet How to map a network drive on Windows Our next tracks: Kirk: John Cale: Fragments of a Rainy Season Doug: The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion: Jukebox Explosion If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podc...
2017-02-1027 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #35 – Musician and Developer Peter Chilvers on Brian Eno’s Album and App ReflectionMusician and developer Peter Chilvers discusses making apps with Brian Eno, including the new generative music composition Reflection. “Imagine lots and lots of theremins looping back at you…” Show notes: Peter Chilvers’ website Ten years working with Brian Eno Generative Music website with Peter’s apps Scape, Bloom, Trope, and Air Kirk’s review of the Reflection CD and app Kirk’s 2013 review of Four apps for making ambient music on your iOS device Note: Peter Chilvers’ explanation of the Reflection app’s pricing, which comes in around the 23-minute mark, is a brief recording he...
2017-01-1332 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #32 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about DACs (Digital-Analog Converters)Chris Connaker of the Computer Audiophile website explains what a DAC is, how it works, and a whether you need one. (And how you already have lots of them.) Sponsor: Waltr 2: transfer virtually any media files to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod, without using iTunes. Safe 15% on Waltr 2 with the discount code THENEXTTRACK. Check out Waltr 2. Show notes: The Computer Audiophile website DACs – digital-analog converters: Digital-to-Analog Convertor, Wikipedia Schiit Audio Explanation of 44.1 kHz CD sampling rate Kirk’s Macworld review of the Cambridge Audio DacMagic (it wasn’t ten years ago, a...
2016-12-2334 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #29 – Tagging Audio FilesDoug and Kirk explain everything you need to know about tagging your digital audio files. Sponsor: Drobo, simple to use storage arrays designed to protect your important data forever. Listen to the podcast for a discount code to save 20% on a new Drobo. Visit Drobo.com. Show notes: The ID3 version 2.3.0 specifications Take Control of iTunes 12: The FAQ How to better organize your classical music in iTunes 12.5 (using Work and Movement tags) Smarts, Doug’s app for managing smart playlists Re-Embed Artwork AppleScript Save Artwork as folder.jpg AppleScript Scripts Recommended by Task Ou...
2016-12-0232 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #24 – Composer Timo Andres on Contemporary Classical MusicDoug and Kirk welcome Timo Andres, composer and performer of contemporary classical music. This is the first part of a two-part interview. One of the ways that […] any type of musician finds their style is by setting out to imitate something and failing. This week’s guest: Timo Andres’s website Timo Andres on Nonesuch Records Show notes: Alex Ross of the New Yorker on Timo Andres and other “student composers” in 2004 Russell Platt of the New Yorker on Timo Andres in 2016 Timo Andres: Shy and Mighty Timo Andres: Home Stretch Lou Reed: Meta...
2016-10-2831 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #23 – David Browne on the History of the Grateful DeadDoug and Kirk welcome David Browne, author of So Many Roads: The Life and Times of the Grateful Dead to discuss the history of this iconic band. Sponsor: Drobo, simple to use storage arrays designed to keep your data safe forever. Visit Drobo.com. This week’s guest: David Browne’s website So Many Roads: The Life and Times of the Grateful Dead Show notes: Kirk’s review of So Many Roads The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound Our next tracks: Kirk: The Grateful Dead Movie Soundtrack Doug: The Grateful...
2016-10-2134 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #22 – In Praise of the iPod ClassicDoug and Kirk wax nostalgic about the iPod classic, and other one trick pony music players. And Bob Dylan. Sponsor: Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes. Make sure your iTunes management tools are updated for latest version of iTunes and for macOS Sierra at Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes. Reader email: A question about earbuds and low frequencies; see the reply to a question on last week’s episode page. News: Bob Dylan wins the Nobel Prize in literature! Check out these Dylan albums to appreciate his poetry: Highway 61 Revisi...
2016-10-1430 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #21 – Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about SubwoofersDoug and Kirk had some questions about subwoofers. So they invited Andy Doe to explain how they work, how to set them up, and why we might want to use them. Sponsor: Drobo, simple to use storage arrays designed to keep your data safe forever. Visit Drobo.com. You’re listening to this at home for your own pleasure, it doesn’t actually matter if it’s accurate. What matters is that you like it. This week’s guest: Andy Doe, Proper Discord Show notes: Polk Audio PSW10 10-Inch Po...
2016-10-0733 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #20 – You Think You Know about the Blues? Eliah Wald on the History of the BluesWe welcome musician, historian, and author Elijah Wald to discuss the history of the blues. Sponsor: Master iTunes with Kirk’s ebook and save 30% on Take Control of iTunes 12: The FAQ, the indispensable guide to iTunes. Show notes: Elijah Wald’s website Elijah Wald’s Songobiography Escaping the Delta: Robert Johnson and the Invention of the Blues Dylan Goes Electric!: Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties Inside Llewyn Davis The Mayor of McDougal Street Inside Dave van Ronk (the album with the cat on the cover) Robert Johnson, The Complete Record...
2016-09-3030 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #19 – Live Recordings and Studio RecordingsDoug and Kirk discuss the pros and cons of live recordings vs. studio recordings. And, are live recordings really live? “Bravo!” Sponsor: Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes. Make sure your iTunes management tools are updated for latest version of iTunes and for macOS Sierra at Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes. Show notes: Grateful Dead: Dave’s Picks Vol. 19, Honolulu, HI, January 23, 1970 The Who: Live at Leeds, Super Deluxe Edition Humble Pie: Performance – Rockin’ The Fillmore: The Complete Recordings ZZ Top: Live – Greatest Hits From Around The World Hot Tuna: Hot Tuna Peter Frampton: Frampt...
2016-09-2328 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #18 – New Yorker Music Critic Alex Ross Discusses Listening to Classical MusicWe welcome New Yorker music critic Alex Ross for a long discussion about listening to classical music today. This episode runs a bit longer than usual, but we think you’ll enjoy the whole show. “I mix the familiar and the obscure.” Sponsor: Master iTunes with Kirk’s ebook and save 30% on Take Control of iTunes 12: The FAQ, the indispensable guide to iTunes. Show notes: Alex Ross’s website, The Rest is Noise Alex Ross’s writings on The New Yorker Alex Ross’s books: The Rest is Noise, Listen to This The Composers...
2016-09-1641 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #17 – Jacks, Pods, and MusicDoug and Kirk look at the audio-related elements of this week’s Apple product announcement. The headphone jack, AirPods, and Apple Music. “Frankly, I don’t listen to a lot of new music. I’m still trying to catch up on a lot of old music.” Sponsor: Master iTunes with Kirk’s ebook and save 30% on Take Control of iTunes 12: The FAQ, the indispensable guide to iTunes. Show notes: Correction: When discussing AirPods, we said that they cannot be used with devices other than a Mac, iOS device, or Apple Watch. Since we rec...
2016-09-0929 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #16 – Managing and Storing Digital Media FilesDoug and Kirk discuss some news and some music and audio technology history, then examine the best ways to manage and store a digital media collection. Show notes: News: Rudy Van Gelder, Renowned ‘A Love Supreme’ Engineer, Dead at 91 – Rolling Stone Music Technology of the 1970s: A Timeline – Pitchfork Managing and Storing Digital Media Files: TuneSpan Drobo WD My Cloud 4 TB Synology Our next tracks: Kirk: Harold Budd: Children on the Hill Doug: Bis: Social Dancing If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes or your favorite...
2016-09-0230 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #15 – What is Mastering and Remastering?Doug and Kirk welcome Sangwook “Sunny” Nam, two-time Grammy nominated mastering engineer. He explains what mastering and remastering are, and we learn a lot about the magic that mastering engineers perform. “All the processing I’m doing is done on the analog side.” Show notes: Jacob’s Well Mastering Sunny Nam’s recordings on Discogs Doug Sax The Doors on vinyl Sunny Nam’s mastering studio. Our next tracks: Kirk: Blind Gary Davis: Harlem Street Singer Doug: Frank Zappa & The Mothers: Roxy & Elsewhere If you like the show, please...
2016-08-2635 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #14 – Audiophile Utility Poles and Other NewsDoug and Kirk take a look at recent news in the music and audio world. From audiophile utility poles to iTunes news, from record stores to car radios, this news and views episode keeps you up to date on what matters in music listening. And Kirk gives an update on his first Pearl Jam listening experience. “For $10,000 there better be a powerful placebo effect.” Show notes: News: Pearl Jam: Ten A Gift for Music Lovers Who Have It All: A Personal Utility Pole Records’ rebirth fueled by older music obsessives, not young hipste...
2016-08-1928 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #13 – Which Streaming Service Is Right for You?Doug and Kirk welcome back Chris Connaker to discuss music streaming services. Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, or another; which is right for you? What are the pros and cons of the various streaming services? “I have never heard a song by Pearl Jam.” Show notes: News: Apple Is Finally Making iTunes Better for Classical Music Dislike is a New iTunes 12.5 Track Property Streaming music services: Pearl Jam Qobuz Apple Music Spotify Tidal Pandora Roon Pearl Jam: Ten Our next tracks: Kirk: Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark: Organisation Doug: Dary...
2016-08-1232 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #12 – iTunes & AppleScriptDoug and Kirk discuss iTunes and AppleScript. This was bound to come sooner or later, since Doug is the AppleScript ninja. We look at what AppleScript does, and discuss more than a dozen of the most useful AppleScripts to use to manage your iTunes library. “AppleScript does not run on Windows, and Windows does not run in my house.” Show notes: News: New Pink Floyd box set covers the early years: 1965 – 1972 Pink Floyd copyright release: 1965: Their First Recordings Everything you need to know about playing music with AirPlay Classical Music Needs More Silenc...
2016-08-0528 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #11 – Audio Myths & SuperstitionsDoug and Kirk welcome back Andy Doe, digital music consultant, to discuss myths and superstitions around audio: cables, breaking in hardware, digital audio, and more. But first we discuss classical music playlists on streaming services. “Hooray, good for you, you have magical bat ears.” Andy Doe. Show notes: Andy Doe Proper Discord Classical music playlists: Here’s What’s Wrong with Classical Music on Streaming Services (Part Whatever) Audio myths & superstitions: Articles on Kirk’s website about hi-fi magazines writing about audio equipment How Hi-Fi Magazines Write about Cables, Part 7: An Audioph...
2016-07-2932 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #10 – Setting Up a Home Media ServerHave you ever wanted to set up your own home media server? Doug and Kirk discuss the pros and cons of doing this, and explain how to set up a Mac mini as a media server. Show notes: Discovering new music: Apple’s Mac mini OS X Server I wish there was an iTunes Server WD My Passport 4 TB portable hard drive Carbon Copy Cloner Change Screen Resolution on Headless OS X Server Sonos Plex The Merchant of Venice, by the Royal Shakespeare Company Apple improves iCloud Music Library matching, ditches copy-protected matched files fo...
2016-07-2227 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #9 – Will Hermes on Discovering New MusicIn the latest episode of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn welcome NPR and Rolling Stone music critic Will Hermes. We take a brief stroll down memory lane, then discuss music discovery: how does a music critic, overwhelmed with choice, discover new music. “For me to just become a nostalgia merchant; as a writer, and as a music fan, not interested.” Show notes: Discovering new music: Will Hermes’ website; his writing on Rolling Stone; his reviews on WNYC; All Things Considered Love Goes to Buildings on Fire, by Will Hermes NPR Mu...
2016-07-1530 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #8 – Listening to Words: Audiobooks and Spoken Word RecordingsIn the latest episode of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn discuss spoken word recordings. How to get them, how to manage them, and how to listen to them. And we discuss how the history of recording started with recordings of spoken word content. “Like a Victorian call center.” Show notes: Spoken word and audiobook recordings: Key dates in the history of audiobooks Walt Whitman reading four lines of America James Joyce reading from Ulysses and Finnegans Wake JRR Tolkien reads from The Lord of the Rings Audible.com, Audible UK...
2016-07-0830 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #7 – Music and GenresIn the latest episode of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn analyze the rumor that Apple is planning to remove the headphone jack from the iPhone, and then discuss how people organize music by genre. “No matter where we steer this thing, we always end up driving down inelegant boulevard.” Show notes: The headphone jack rumor: An iPhone without a headphone jack? No way! On the Recurring Rumor that Apple Is Getting Rid of the iPhone Headphone Jack What’s the Logic Behind Apple’s New Headphone Jack? Apple USB-C Digital...
2016-07-0129 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #6 – What Is High-Resolution Audio?In the latest episode of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn welcome special guest Chris Connaker who runs the Computer Audiophile website to discuss high-resolution audio. What are the pros? The cons? Is high-res for you? “Is high-resolution worth it? There really is no definitive answer to that…” Show notes: The Computer Audiophile website High-resolution audio: Episode #3 – Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know about Audio File Formats Gimell Records, John Taverner – Missa Corona spinea Why do CDs use a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz? Hdtracks JRiver Media Center Fiio X7 port...
2016-06-2431 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #5 – Headphones or Speakers?In the latest episode of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn take a quick look at the new features coming to Apple Music, and then discuss how we listen to music with headphones and speakers. What’s the best kind of headphones? When should you use speakers? Why not use both (not at the same time, of course)? Show notes: News: A Brief Overview of New Features Coming to Apple Music Headphones and speakers: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphones AKG K 240 Semi-Open Studio Headphones Sony MDRV6 he...
2016-06-1729 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #4 – Streaming Shenanigans and MetadataIn episode #4 of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn welcome special guest Andy Doe, digital music consultant and classical record label head, to discuss some streaming music shenanigans, and audio file metadata, the information that tells you who a track is by, its name, its album, and more. “This is the kind of mass-production of music that Henry Ford would have appreciated.” Andy Doe. Show notes: Andy Doe Proper Discord Streaming music shenanigans: Albums are getting unbearably long and sh*tty streaming rules are to blame Metadata: Metametadata: almo...
2016-06-1032 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #3 – Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know about Audio File FormatsIn episode #3 of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn examine the various audio file formats that you may encounter when you listen to music. You’re familiar with MP3, AAC, and, perhaps, Apple Lossless, but do you know your FLAC from your AIFF, or your WAV from your Ogg Vorbis? Show notes: Audio file formats: Here’s a selection of links about audio file formats, working with lossless audio, etc. An Overview of Audio File Formats Supported By iTunes Everything you need to know about digital audio files The ABCs of L...
2016-06-0328 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #2 – To Stream or to Own Music?In episode #2 of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn take a brief look at the iTunes 12.4 update, and then discuss streaming music versus owning it. Do you want to have access to most of the recorded music available or do you want to own your music, listen to it when you want, even if labels or artists decide they don’t want to play with streaming services? Show notes: News and Updates: Kirk’s review of iTunes 12.4 on Macworld Some Minor Changes in iTunes – Kirkville Main topic, streaming versus owning music: A...
2016-05-2730 minThe Next Track
The Next Track♫ Episode #1 – Songs to Albums to SongsIn episode #1 of The Next Track, Doug Adams and Kirk McElhearn introduce the podcast, and explain the topics they plan to cover. They discuss streaming music and downloads, and spend some time looking at the history of music listening, from songs to albums to songs, with some tapes along the way. Then they discuss their next tracks, the music they’re planning to listen to next. Show notes: Introduction to The Next Track, and what the podcast is going to cover. Doug Adams’ website, Doug’s AppleScripts for iTunes. Kirk McElhearn’s website, Kirkville. Songs to albums t...
2016-05-2128 min