Shows
The Groove PodThe Art of Vinyl Grading: Insights from the Groove PodThe central theme of this discourse revolves around the intricate nuances of vinyl record acquisition, particularly emphasizing the challenges encountered when discerning the condition and grading of records in various retail environments. In a recent excursion, Nic recounts his unexpected venture into the realm of antiquities with his daughter, where he fortuitously encountered several albums that piqued his interest. However, he faced a notable impediment: the absence of a clear grading system to assess the quality of the records, which prompted a broader contemplation on the standards employed by different vendors. This episode delves into the significance of understanding...2025-07-0822 minThe Groove PodThe Evolution of Streaming: Raspberry Pi and Modern SolutionsThe primary focus of this podcast episode is the discussion surrounding Raspberry Pi streaming solutions and their efficacy compared to traditional audio streaming devices. Lachlan and Nic delve into their personal experiences with various audio equipment, highlighting the remarkable sound quality achievable through a Raspberry Pi setup, even when juxtaposed against more expensive alternatives. They reflect on recent feedback regarding upgrades to turntables, emphasizing the importance of selecting a model with ample potential for future enhancements. Additionally, the conversation touches on the challenges and intricacies of audio equipment, including the implications of using direct drive versus belt drive systems...2025-06-2426 minThe Groove PodDecisions in audio: upgrade, tinker or replace?This podcast episode elucidates the intricacies of upgrading audio equipment, specifically focusing on the experience of replacing a cartridge in an Audio Technica turntable. I, Lachlan, engage with Nic to unravel the implications of substituting a stock cartridge for a higher-end model, which, in theory, should enhance audio fidelity. However, the dialogue takes a pivotal turn as we discover the unfortunate reality that the turntable's cartridge is not replaceable, an oversight that highlights the critical importance of precise terminology in audio discussions. This revelation prompts a deeper inquiry into the broader implications of equipment choices, including the potential for...2025-05-1647 minThe Groove PodIntegrated devices, listener emails and cartridges - it's a banquet!Proving the shortcomings of AI, this set of show notes is written entirely by a human! Normally, AI helps me generate interesting and catchy information that I then edit to add some humanity. Not today!In this episode, Nic & Lachlan discuss cartridge types as well as how to decide on what to upgrade in your system and when. We also respond to our first listener email via askthegroovepod@gmail.com and have some laughs about how AI is letting us down.It's a varied episode with lots of laughs and lots of topics covered. We...2025-05-0158 minThe Groove PodCDs vs Vinyl vs Streaming - which should you choose?Nic and Lachlan start with some discussions about the decision making process to decide between CDs and streaming (Lachlan's preference) and vinyl (Nic's preference). From there, things dive deeper into discussion of the challenges faced when ripping and storing digital files, some hilarious brand names from China, and using AI tools to help discover new music.Nic also has some new music recommendations for Lachlan who response with a couple of his own. You might learn about 6-7 great new artists by listening to this episode!Oh, and we now have an email address. Contact...2025-04-121h 06The Groove PodSoundstage and Dynamics: The Transformative Power of Proper SetupIn a world where digital music reigns supreme, the allure of vinyl records continues to captivate audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Lachlan and Nic embark on a spirited exploration of this timeless medium, questioning the relevance of vinyl in our contemporary musical landscape. Nic shares his firsthand experiences with the Audio Technica AT-LP60 USB, detailing his initial impressions and the challenges he faced with the turntable's fixed RCA cable. As the discussion unfolds, the speakers dissect the complexities of sound reproduction, particularly the importance of preamp selection and the nuances that differentiate phono outputs from line outputs. By recounting...2025-03-2848 minThe Groove PodVinyl Weight Unveiled: Understanding the Quality Behind Your RecordsDelving into the auditory landscape of vinyl records, Lachlan and Nic embark on an illuminating discussion that encompasses the allure of vinyl in the contemporary digital era. Their conversation navigates the intricate nuances of vinyl weights, exploring the implications of pressing quality on auditory fidelity. They dissect the historical context behind vinyl production, particularly the ramifications of the oil crisis in the 1970s that led to a surge in recycled materials. This exploration unveils the complexities of sound reproduction, as both hosts share personal anecdotes and research findings on how the weight of a vinyl record can affect its...2025-03-1130 minThe Groove PodHarmony, Timing & Noise: What Makes a Great Listening Experience?In a profound examination of music's cognitive and emotional dimensions, this Groove Pod episode presented by Lachlan and Nic resonates with listeners through its exploration of the intersection between neuroscience, musical expression, and personal experience. The hosts initiate their discourse by referencing Daniel Levitin's insights into how individuals form expectations based on their musical exposure, framing the conversation around the psychological constructs that govern music appreciation. They further illuminate the creative genius of Joni Mitchell, whose unconventional guitar tunings and self-taught musical philosophy defy traditional standards, thereby creating a unique sound that poses challenges for accompanying musicians. As the...2025-02-071h 03
Passion for SoundMaximizing Your Audio Budget: A Guide to Strategic Equipment AllocationAn exploration of budget allocation in the realm of audio equipment underscores a critical aspect of audio enjoyment—ensuring that each component harmonizes effectively within a system. The conversation initiates with a common query: Should one allocate more funds towards speakers or headphones, as opposed to DACs and amplifiers? The prevailing sentiment amongst many audio enthusiasts is to invest heavily in the output devices, as they are deemed to shape the audio experience most significantly. However, I posit that such a perspective may overlook the essential role played by the entire audio chain. Notably, the episode illustrates this point by...2025-02-0108 minThe Groove PodFrom Streaming to Spinning: Why Vinyl is Making a ComebackMeet Lachlan and Nic, two cousins who share a love of music and are recording a podcast as Nic starts to dive deeper into improving his experiences with listening to music on vinyl. Meanwhile, Lachlan is resisting the pull and the romance of vinyl to stay true to his roots as a reviewer and enthusiast in the digital audio space.This episode of "In the Groove" delves into the journey of exploring vinyl records and the unique experiences they offer compared to digital formats. Hosts Lachlan and Nic share their personal stories about how they became interested...2025-01-2544 min
Passion for Sound PodcastWhy amplifier class matters less than you thinkMy recent review of the Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers stirred up some criticism of my choice of speakers for testing (not that I had a choice - they're my only passive speakers right now). The result is this conversation explaining what matters and what doesn't matter when you're choosing an amplifier to drive your speakers (or choosing speakers for your existing amplifier).Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for...2024-12-1912 minPassion for SoundWhy amplifier class matters less than you thinkMy recent review of the Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers stirred up some criticism of my choice of speakers for testing (not that I had a choice - they're my only passive speakers right now). The result is this conversation explaining what matters and what doesn't matter when you're choosing an amplifier to drive your speakers (or choosing speakers for your existing amplifier).Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for...2024-12-1912 minPassion for SoundHow overgeneralisation is damaging the audio hobbyThis is my response to DMS video about burn-in in headphones and some of the comments I saw on that video and on a video of mine that followed.Key topics in this episode:One, well executed, but narrow test does not equate to a global truthAssuming the motivations of other people's actions is dangerous groundWhy there is still more to the sound of a headphone (and it's burn-in if that exists) than its frequency response graphSupport the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on...2024-12-1016 minPassion for Sound PodcastHow overgeneralisation is damaging the audio hobbyThis is my response to DMS video about burn-in in headphones and some of the comments I saw on that video and on a video of mine that followed.Key topics in this episode:One, well executed, but narrow test does not equate to a global truthAssuming the motivations of other people's actions is dangerous groundWhy there is still more to the sound of a headphone (and it's burn-in if that exists) than its frequency response graphSupport the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube...2024-12-1016 minPassion for SoundUnveiling Audiophile Mysteries: Exploring Tubes, Bias Settings, and Circuit Design in High-End AmplifiersDelve deep into the world of audiophile amplifiers as host Lachlan chats with Andrew, Alisa and Lutz from Sparkos Labs - renowned manufacturers of discrete op-amps and the Aries and Gemini headphone amplifiers. Unravel the enigmatic nuances of tube amplification, starting with the intriguing insights into the Gemini's tuning for the 6922 tubes and Andrew's personal favorite tubes for the amp.Discover the impact of bias settings on the amplifier's sound signature. Understand the intricacies of circuit design, distinguishing between discrete and integrated designs and their effects on sound quality.The conversation delves into the role...2023-12-081h 12Passion for Sound PodcastUnveiling Audiophile Mysteries: Exploring Tubes, Bias Settings, and Circuit Design in High-End AmplifiersDelve deep into the world of audiophile amplifiers as host Lachlan chats with Andrew, Alisa and Lutz from Sparkos Labs - renowned manufacturers of discrete op-amps and the Aries and Gemini headphone amplifiers. Unravel the enigmatic nuances of tube amplification, starting with the intriguing insights into the Gemini's tuning for the 6922 tubes and Andrew's personal favorite tubes for the amp.Discover the impact of bias settings on the amplifier's sound signature. Understand the intricacies of circuit design, distinguishing between discrete and integrated designs and their effects on sound quality.The conversation delves into the role...2023-12-081h 12Passion for SoundWhy EXPENSIVE products get better reviews and other interesting stuff...Why did Chris choose to pick-up Abyss headphones to distribute here in Australia?Why does Lachlan allow brands to give him products for free to review and how does that not cause bias? Or does it?Do brands demonstrate bias in who they give products to for reviews?Why is it that the reviews of expensive gear tend to be less critical?What's next for the Passion for Sound podcast?Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a...2023-12-0133 minPassion for Sound PodcastWhy EXPENSIVE products get better reviews and other interesting stuff...Why did Chris choose to pick-up Abyss headphones to distribute here in Australia?Why does Lachlan allow brands to give him products for free to review and how does that not cause bias? Or does it?Do brands demonstrate bias in who they give products to for reviews?Why is it that the reviews of expensive gear tend to be less critical?What's next for the Passion for Sound podcast?Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future...2023-12-0133 minPassion for Sound PodcastBeyond Audiophile Expectations: Geshelli Labs' AK4499EX DACs & Sparkos Magic🎧 Get ready to embark on an auditory adventure like never before! In this electrifying episode, we sit down with the dynamic duo, Geno & Sherri, from Geshelli Labs, as they take us deep into the realm of audio innovation. 🌟Discover the cutting-edge technology behind Geshelli Labs' new range of DACs, featuring the game-changing AKM AK4499EX DAC chip, and learn how they've harnessed its potential to deliver audio excellence that will redefine your listening experience. 🎶✨But that's not all – we'll delve into the art of audio engineering as Geno & Sherri spill the beans on their use of Sparkos La...2023-09-1159 minPassion for SoundBeyond Audiophile Expectations: Geshelli Labs' AK4499EX DACs & Sparkos Magic🎧 Get ready to embark on an auditory adventure like never before! In this electrifying episode, we sit down with the dynamic duo, Geno & Sherri, from Geshelli Labs, as they take us deep into the realm of audio innovation. 🌟Discover the cutting-edge technology behind Geshelli Labs' new range of DACs, featuring the game-changing AKM AK4499EX DAC chip, and learn how they've harnessed its potential to deliver audio excellence that will redefine your listening experience. 🎶✨But that's not all – we'll delve into the art of audio engineering as Geno & Sherri spill the beans on their use of Sparkos La...2023-09-1159 minPassion for Sound PodcastHas Head-Fi Peaked? What the Munich High-End Show told us...Chris and Lachlan discuss Chris' experience at the 2023 Munich High-End Show and what it told us about the future of audio and head-fi. You won't believe how big the show actually was!Also, Lachlan provides a sneak peak into some brand new and crazy content that he's planning for the YouTube channel.Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-06-2942 minPassion for SoundHas Head-Fi Peaked? What the Munich High-End Show told us...Chris and Lachlan discuss Chris' experience at the 2023 Munich High-End Show and what it told us about the future of audio and head-fi. You won't believe how big the show actually was!Also, Lachlan provides a sneak peak into some brand new and crazy content that he's planning for the YouTube channel.Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-06-2942 minPassion for Sound PodcastInnovation Deficit: Munich High End Disenchantment and What Our Hobby Needs MostIn this thrilling installment, we dive headfirst into the world of audio shows, exploring the renowned Munich High End show and unraveling the reasons behind our growing boredom with these events.Join us as we candidly discuss our experiences, shedding light on why the excitement surrounding audio shows seems to be dwindling. From the repetitive exhibits to the lackluster presentations, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to understand why these once-thrilling events fail to captivate us anymore.But the conversation doesn't stop there. We delve into a deeper issue plaguing the audio industry...2023-05-2640 minPassion for SoundInnovation Deficit: Munich High End Disenchantment and What Our Hobby Needs MostIn this thrilling installment, we dive headfirst into the world of audio shows, exploring the renowned Munich High End show and unraveling the reasons behind our growing boredom with these events.Join us as we candidly discuss our experiences, shedding light on why the excitement surrounding audio shows seems to be dwindling. From the repetitive exhibits to the lackluster presentations, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to understand why these once-thrilling events fail to captivate us anymore.But the conversation doesn't stop there. We delve into a deeper issue plaguing the audio industry...2023-05-2640 minPassion for Sound PodcastHow I unleashed CHAOS with a scathing audio review!Chris & Lachlan discuss:Sealed vs ported vs transmission line speakers - what do we like most?What happens when I produce a negative reviewThe challenges and benefits of negative reviews Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-05-0534 minPassion for SoundHow I unleashed CHAOS with a scathing audio review!Chris & Lachlan discuss:Sealed vs ported vs transmission line speakers - what do we like most?What happens when I produce a negative reviewThe challenges and benefits of negative reviews Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-05-0534 minPassion for Sound PodcastUnlocking Sonic Superpowers: Our Top Audio Tweaks that Will Revolutionize Your System!Unlocking sonic superpowers: Join Chris and Lachlan as they dive into the wild world of tweaks for your audio system! From wicked network switches to mind-blowing streaming gadgets, prepare for an adventure packed with power cables, filters, and DIY delights! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-04-2233 minPassion for SoundUnlocking Sonic Superpowers: Our Top Audio Tweaks that Will Revolutionize Your System!Unlocking sonic superpowers: Join Chris and Lachlan as they dive into the wild world of tweaks for your audio system! From wicked network switches to mind-blowing streaming gadgets, prepare for an adventure packed with power cables, filters, and DIY delights! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-04-2233 minPassion for Sound PodcastFrom Standard to Supernatural: Chris & Lachlan's Journey into the Enchanting World of 432Hz Tuning!Exploring the wonders of 432Hz music streamers, MQA turmoil, and the streaming showdown! Join Chris & Lachlan on an epic journey as they unravel the potential benefits of harmonic frequencies and decode the future of music platforms. Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-04-1438 minPassion for SoundFrom Standard to Supernatural: Chris & Lachlan's Journey into the Enchanting World of 432Hz Tuning!Exploring the wonders of 432Hz music streamers, MQA turmoil, and the streaming showdown! Join Chris & Lachlan on an epic journey as they unravel the potential benefits of harmonic frequencies and decode the future of music platforms. Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-04-1438 minPassion for Sound PodcastAudio Brilliance: Zach Mehrbach Reveals the Secrets Behind ZMF's Newest Headphones!Join Lachlan as he gets the inside scoop from Zach Mehrbach of ZMF headphones! Prepare for a thrilling discussion on the latest headphone marvels, including Caldera, Atrium Closed, Auteur Classic, and an upcoming sub-$1000 portable headphone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of unmatched sound! You can also watch this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BG67dZ1ieA8Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this p...2023-03-2951 minPassion for SoundAudio Brilliance: Zach Mehrbach Reveals the Secrets Behind ZMF's Newest Headphones!Join Lachlan as he gets the inside scoop from Zach Mehrbach of ZMF headphones! Prepare for a thrilling discussion on the latest headphone marvels, including Caldera, Atrium Closed, Auteur Classic, and an upcoming sub-$1000 portable headphone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of unmatched sound! You can also watch this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BG67dZ1ieA8Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this p...2023-03-2951 minPassion for Sound PodcastGame-Changing Audio on a Budget: Chris & Lachlan's DIY Adventures Unveil the IKEA-Style Audio Revolution!Join Chris and Lachlan as they dive into the world of DIY audio, money-saving hacks, and the exciting rise of flat-pack, IKEA-style audio gems! Discover Chris' big gripe, explore the thrills of crafting your own sound system, and dive into the sonic playground of iFi iPower power supplies and Harbeth loudspeakers! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-2536 minPassion for SoundGame-Changing Audio on a Budget: Chris & Lachlan's DIY Adventures Unveil the IKEA-Style Audio Revolution!Join Chris and Lachlan as they dive into the world of DIY audio, money-saving hacks, and the exciting rise of flat-pack, IKEA-style audio gems! Discover Chris' big gripe, explore the thrills of crafting your own sound system, and dive into the sonic playground of iFi iPower power supplies and Harbeth loudspeakers! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-2536 minPassion for Sound PodcastTRAILER: Flat-pack audio systems: the future of hifi?Chris and Lachlan start with Chris' big gripe before we discuss DIY audio and how it can save you money, the opportunity for flat-pack, IKEA-style audio products and then the things we've been playing with (including iFi iPower power supplies and Harbeth loudspeakers)Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-2400 minPassion for SoundTRAILER: Flat-pack audio systems: the future of hifi?Chris and Lachlan start with Chris' big gripe before we discuss DIY audio and how it can save you money, the opportunity for flat-pack, IKEA-style audio products and then the things we've been playing with (including iFi iPower power supplies and Harbeth loudspeakers)Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-2401 minPassion for Sound PodcastThe Quest for Pure Sound: Dive into the Mysteries of Power Supply, Amplifier Distortion, and Beyond! Don't Miss this Audio Rollercoaster Ride!Dive into the world of power cables, trolls, and amplifier distortion! Join us as we expose the hidden noises, uncover the power supply enigma, and reveal the unexpected advantages of amps with distortion. Get ready for an ear-opening, mind-expanding podcast experience! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-0937 minPassion for SoundThe Quest for Pure Sound: Dive into the Mysteries of Power Supply, Amplifier Distortion, and Beyond! Don't Miss this Audio Rollercoaster Ride!Dive into the world of power cables, trolls, and amplifier distortion! Join us as we expose the hidden noises, uncover the power supply enigma, and reveal the unexpected advantages of amps with distortion. Get ready for an ear-opening, mind-expanding podcast experience! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound - YouTube2023-03-0937 minPassion for SoundInside the Audio Empire: Chris Strom Reveals the Truth About Being an Audio Wholesaler! Get Ready for Mind-Blowing Insights and Game-Changing Technologies! The grand premiere of Passion for Sound podcast: join us for an epic journey into the world of audio! Meet the co-presenter, Chris Strom, as he unveils the untold tales of being an audio wholesaler/distributor. Discover the insider secrets, explore the impact of distribution models on consumers, and brace yourself for an exciting glimpse into the future with cutting-edge technologies! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound...2023-02-2342 minPassion for Sound PodcastInside the Audio Empire: Chris Strom Reveals the Truth About Being an Audio Wholesaler! Get Ready for Mind-Blowing Insights and Game-Changing Technologies! The grand premiere of Passion for Sound podcast: join us for an epic journey into the world of audio! Meet the co-presenter, Chris Strom, as he unveils the untold tales of being an audio wholesaler/distributor. Discover the insider secrets, explore the impact of distribution models on consumers, and brace yourself for an exciting glimpse into the future with cutting-edge technologies! Support the showThanks for listening!Don't forget to join me on YouTube to post questions and comments you'd like me to discuss on a future episode of this podcast: Passion for Sound...2023-02-2342 min