Campfire Audio Comet – unboxing and initial impressions

Introduction After the recent fanfare around the launch of Campfire Audio's first over-ear headphone (the Cascade), they have decided that one release in 2018 isn't enough to keep everyone busy, so they have released two new single driver models, the Comet and the Atlas. Both models use a new drop-forged stainless steel body and more... Continue Reading →

May 10, 2018 2

Focal Elear: dynamism with a dash of French flair

Pros: Incredible dynamics and punch, crisp and detailed sound, good balance through the frequencies, rock solid build and comfort, decent bass weight, highly engaging sound Cons: Small soundstage for an open-back, dip in upper mids may not be to everyone’s taste, “always on” dynamics make this a little excitable for more mellow genres Price: £769 ($799,... Continue Reading →

March 14, 2018 3

Bristol Sound & Vision 2018: Pioneer, Audio Technica, Quad, Ophidian Audio, Acoustic Energy, Prism Sound (part 2)

Read further for tiny speakers with big sound and professional audio produced for consumers. There's headphones too. Pioneer The Pioneer setup was running the SE-Master 1 (£1699) from the Pioneer U-05 (£540) DAC/Headphone Amp combo with the Pioneer XDP-300R (£459). I’ve checked all these elements out before, but haven’t covered them for the blog. I... Continue Reading →

March 8, 2018 1

Indulgence Show London 2017: pure pleasure (part 2)

In our last installment you were treated, or tricked, as the now post Halloween landscape may have you assess, into reading a long piece about wires. This piece isn't so controversial. This piece is about sound treatment, gin, and joy—Pure Pleasure. The Indulgence Show was not a showcase of wires, that was my particular perversion.... Continue Reading →

November 13, 2017 1

Boys Age: weird and wonderful from Japan

I've been listening to Boys Age for about three years now and keep introducing strangers, friends and family to the strange works of Kaznary Mutow. Kaz is both the creative force behind the music of Boys Age and the strange, sexual and sometimes disturbing artwork of their album covers, and he produces their music videos.... Continue Reading →