For vinyl collectors, statically charged records are a persistent thorn in the side. When a vinyl record becomes statically charged, it acts like a magnet for any dust lurking near its vicinity, making it near-impossible to keep the record clean. Watch our video below or a full demonstration or continue reading to learn more. The problem is most acute in … Read More
For many, The Mars Volta ‘De-loused in the Comatorium’ is a holy grail album to bag on vinyl. So as VMP (Vinyl Me, Please) make this modern prog-rock classic their Essentials Record of the Month for July, we delve into this monstrously epic display of music virtuosity to find out why it’s still sought after nearly 20 years later. De-Loused … Read More
The 2M series from Ortofon has, for many, become the de facto cartridge and styli range for the vinyl revival. The ubiquitous 2M Red, in particular, has rightly earnt a reputation as one of the best-sounding affordable cartridges on the market at just $99 or £95. Sound-wise, the performance is undoubtedly impressive across the 2M range, which is semi-modular to … Read More
If you’re anything like me, your vinyl record collection is an ever-expanding beast. Once you’re hit with the vinyl bug, there’s no satisfying that itch to buy more records as you set out on a lifetime journey of musical discovery. The bigger your collection gets, the more creative you have to get with storage. A record crate becomes a record … Read More
A VMP Classics subscription is the perfect way to explore a new or existing love for soul, blues, and jazz. Having spent recent years acquiring a broad range of classic albums by Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, and Coleman Hawkins, Sound Matters review the latest from VMP Classics. For music exploration, nothing quite beats a record subscription service. The … Read More
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
Your phono cartridge is arguably the most important piece of kit in your entire setup. Why? Because the cartridge and its stylus are responsible for tracking the groove. The accuracy and detail captured at this point are critical, as no amount of upgrading your pre-amp, amplifier, or speakers will make up for poor quality at the sound source. Replacing or … Read More
All too often, USB LED lights for the turntable market are small, flimsy, and ultimately disappointing. Could this product from Reliable Corporation change all that? Up until now, my overall experience of USB gooseneck lights has been a fairly lackluster affair; most are pretty poorly made and represent more of a gimmick than a serious desk light. So naturally, I … Read More
VMP (Vinyl Me, Please) is one of the world’s most established record clubs. Their special releases and collaborative approach have earned them a reputation for producing some of the most desirable pressings in the industry. To learn more about what makes VMP such a desirable record club, we delve into their latest Essentials Record of the Month release. After which, … Read More
For those who prefer to watch rather than read, there is a video overview at the bottom of this post. I’m a fan of the Ortofon 2M range of cartridges; they provide an affordable entry point to audiophile quality with a clear upgrade path for those seeking a modular approach to signal path improvements. Arguably, your cartridge is the most … Read More