Classic Albums: Fleetwood Mac (1975)

Marc HenshallClassic Albums6 Comments

The release of Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album in 1975 saw the band move distinctly away from their British blues roots. The arrival of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham symbolized more than a change in personnel; it heralded the birth of a sound that would become iconic. (Huge thanks to VMP for supplying the reissue copy of this record). Founded in … Read More

MC Pro Review: Quietest Phono Preamp Available?

Marc HenshallReviewsLeave a Comment

The MC Pro phono preamp by Michael Fidler (Classic Audio Ltd) promises a whisper-quiet signal-to-noise ratio, alongside hyper-accurate RIAA performance. Having been suitably impressed with Michael’s Spartan 15 moving magnet phono stage, can his first venture into the delicate world of moving coil amplification knock it out of the park once again? As is the case with all Michael Fidler … Read More

Best Budget Phono Preamps for Amazing Sound

Marc HenshallNew to Vinyl, Reviews6 Comments

If you’re buying your first vinyl setup, you’ll need to make sure you have a phono preamp somewhere in the signal chain. In straightforward terms, a phono preamp amplifies the signal up to a level suitable for the AUX input on your Hi-Fi receiver. Also, it will apply an equalization curve to inverse the standard frequency adjustment made during the … Read More

iFi Zen Phono Review: Better than the Mani 2?

Marc HenshallReviewsLeave a Comment

The iFi ZEN Phono lists some impressive specs for a phono preamp sitting in the sub-$200/£200 price bracket. iFi makes the bold statement that “you will fall in love with your LPs all over again,” but with such stiff competition in the market, how does the ZEN phono measure up? Having reviewed many affordable phono preamps here at Sound Matters, … Read More

Audio Technica AT-LPW50BT Review

Marc HenshallReviews2 Comments

Featuring Bluetooth connectivity, a rosewood veneer MDF plinth, and a sleek carbon fiber tonearm, Audio Technica’s LPW50BT combines stylistic flair with impressive sound. Is this the levelling-up manual turntable you’ve been looking for? Pros Cons Engaging and well-balanced sound. Bluetooth was temperamental to connect (in my experience). Excellent build quality from both a look and feel perspective – a joy … Read More

Best Headphones for Vinyl Records in 2024

Marc HenshallNew to Vinyl, Reviews, Uncategorized9 Comments

For most of us, speakers are the most common choice for vinyl playback. Speakers allow you to fill the room, generate an atmosphere and share the musical experience with friends and family. There are times, though, where a set of great headphones and a more private listening experience is advantageous, or perhaps (if you live with housemates or close-contact neighbors), … Read More

Ten of the Best Budget to Mid-Range Turntables in 2024

Marc HenshallReviews5 Comments

Vinyl is back! The momentum behind consumer enthusiasm for the vinyl experience shows no sign of slowing, and while streaming offers day-to-day convenience on a mass-market level, vinyl continues to appeal among the most decerning of music fans.  Hi-Fi equipment across the board has a reputation for costing a lot of money, but in truth, there are plenty of options … Read More