I don't understand the role of the preamp and integrated amplifiers. Why don't we use a multiple input power amplifier with variable gain? I know it is possible because I have seen (but not heard) one or two examples. I don't understand the need to have a seperate component to destroy sound quality.

I know previously preamplifiers were primarily for the phono input, but long after this role has passed we were still using preamps. Of course, stand alone phono preamps were always available that could have been used to directly drive a power amplifier. Confused!

I got to thinking about beginnings when I read JA's "As We See It" last January. It seemed to me at the time that his concern over the future of the high-end audio industry centered on an issue that didn't get fully exposed. JA noted that "...younger people are not finding their way to what the high-end audio industry has to offer (my italics)in anything like enough numbers to replace those who leave." My personal hypothesis concerning this trend goes back to how I came to this pursuit in my younger days.

Hi All,
I have just aquired a Velleman VAA-70 Mk II amplifier. I am trying to find out the correct input tubes for this amplifier. I originally thought 6GH8A or 7199s but the installed tubes (with no labeling) do not test as either on a tube tester.

Wes,

In your review of the Dynaudio Focus 140 I noticed the Nuforce Ref 8B listed in your associated equipment. Will we be seeing an upcoming review on these?

RG

I have a Stanton STR8-80, 2 of them, and for some reason, one of them recently lost most of the torque in the motor, or something. Now simply having a weight on it, other than vinyl, will cause it to slow down, and can be easily stopped by grazing the platter with your finger. Is there a way I can get the torque back? The turntables are less than 2 years old. Let me know if you got anything.

Thanks,

Viper

nightviper19@hotmail.com

Hello,

My name is John Agugliaro. I'm a Service Technician at a TV/Stereo repair shop in New Jersey. We're looking for a test disc (could be audio with video, or just audio alone) for an SACD/DVD Audio/Video Player that will output 7.1 Dolby Surround. That would mean eight channels, each with its own signal and identifier: Front- L/R, D.Mix*- L/R, Surround- L/R, Center, and Sub-Woofer. This is a very difficult disc to find, indeed! If anyone knows of any sources, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank-you.

Sincerely,

Hi guys

After checking all the cartridges i own,i've realized there is no standart regarding color coding.Some manufacturers , when you look the cartridge from the back,stylous facing down,place the "hot" on the top row and others on the lower row.Can anyone please tell me if i connected my Koetsu urushi properly ? (white-top left , red-top right , blue - bottom left , green - bottom right ) I've read somewhere that Koetsus use the (blue/green - top left.right) system. is that true ?

Hi guys

I remember there was a record with the beatles's songs,sung by others.Two of the groups i remember is "Aerosmith" and "The bee gees". Can anyone tell me the name of that record?

Thank you !

Guys,one of the greatest records is coming on vinyl on June 30.I've allready pre-ordered mine. Eva Cassidy "Time After Time".

Here's my list of 20 you should have but may not have.

Sonny Rollins Saxophone Colossus
St. Thomas is my favorite Rollins tune

Miles Davis Kind Of Blue
Best selling jazz album in history

Chicago Chicago Transit Authority
Their first and still the best

Beatles Abbey Road
She came in through the bathroom window

John Coltrane My Favorite Things
Julie Andrews wouldn't recognize the tune

Freddie Hubbard Red Clay
The title song is worth it all

Return To Forever Light As A Feather
Listen to Spain