Stephen Mejias

Remember my friend, Eden? The one with the">http://blog.stereophile.com/stephenmejias/project_sapphire_at_the_end_o… amazing apartment and the Sota Sapphire? I visited her the other day. Slowly, so slowly, we're revitalizing the old turntable. Getting her ready to spin again. Getting her ready to sing again.

What depression? There's nothing like a good old-fashioned listening party for lighting a fire on your savings account. Might as well spend your money now before it disappears. Turn your money into stuff. Turn your stuff into records. John">http://www.devorefidelity.com/">John DeVore should charge admission to his new listening room. Perhaps he'll accept payment in vinyl. I'd happily pay one limited edition pressing for an evening of outstanding music and fine company.

I am almost done with the "Recommended Components" blurbshttp://blog.stereophile.com/stephenmejias/072006essay/">blurbs;. And it feels so good.

The February 2009 issue of Stereophile is now on newsstands. On the cover, we feature the first CD player to come from Canadian manufacturer, Bryston.

Michael Fremer:

Art Dudley:

When I was younger, in my teens and early twenties, it happened all the time. On a whim, I'd go out to a small rock venue, and be absolutely shocked, ignited, devastated by some young, unknown band. Afterwards, I was always too shy to speak to the musicians, but, if I had any extra cash on me, I'd be sure to head to the merch' table and pick up a demo, maybe even buy a button or t-shirt. The feeling was as intoxicating and brilliant as New York City's snow-covered streets on a sunny winter day. This band was now yours to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, from this day forward, or until they signed to a major label.