I want a new CD player to match with my Simply 8 Unison Research amp and Living Voice speakers. Ideally something that gives me excellent instrument transparency when playing acoustic, contemporary and classical music, but with an intimate, rounded, warm sound.....if that makes sense!! Some dealers have told me that because amp technology has progressed so far in the 8 years since I bought the Simply 8, I really need to think about not only a new CD player, but also a new amp/preamp to get what I want.

http://www.stereophile.com/news/unique_hi-rez_downloads/

My CD transport (EMM Labs) conked out last week, and since it's gone for repairs, I've been listening exclusively to LPs. Yesterday, 16-yr old son comes over and asks me if I can show him how to use the record player! So far, his listening has been exclusively through his iPod or through his laptop (mp3), and he has never been curious about operating the CD player/DAC. Any of my CDs he liked, he ripped on his laptop and wouldn't care about the hifi.

I have 3 Lascalas across the front. My reciever has lots of different modes, 5ch stereo, Neo 6, DPL 2 etc. It seems that I like plain stereo better than any other format. I Use these for surround, I also have Klipschorns in the rear for surrounds but it seems for music 2 ch stereo is best. Does anyone here prefer any other format except stereo for music?

http://www.audiotweaks.com/collection_ascend.htm

Has anyone ever heard that tube amps will self destruct if powered up with no load?

Many good recommendations by JA and other authors refer to online downloads from HD Tracks.
I find that it makes sense as online music is probably (and sadly) the music format of the future.
However, HD tracks sells only within USA. I am in Canada and cannot get these interesting music

Hi Everyone, I'm a huge Louis fan but have trouble deciding what albums to purchase because there are just so many. I know some of them while being great in the music sense, aren't so great in the recording sense. Louis and The Good Book is a prime example of that, excellent music but not the greatest recording.

What are considered to be the best Louis Armstrong CD/SACD/XRCD discs in terms of sound quality and music?

Thanks a ton.

- Lukas
Audio Junkies