SVS subwoofer
July 21, 2003
There's a lot of talk about SVS subwoofers over at
www.avsforum.com. Has GoodSound! reviewed any SVS products? I see you've looked at
Hsu, and SVS seems to compete very well with them and might make for a good comparison.
Justin Inman
Although we've yet to review an SVS subwoofer at GoodSound!,
we have reviewed the 25-31PC-Plus at our sister publication Home Theater & Sound. In
fact, that subwoofer gained the SoundStage!
Network's Reviewers' Choice designation for value. I'd say that makes it a prime
consideration for GoodSound! readers as well. We'll see what we can do about
getting an SVS sub for GoodSound! to evaluate, too.
New formats
July 17, 2003
Do you see digital media formats such as MP3 and WMA
becoming a viable source for high-fidelity playback? What is the general opinion in the
industry regarding these sound formats?
Eric Meier
I think there is a great likelihood that these new
formats will become even more financially viable, become better in overall quality, and
continue to gain market share. Will they become "a viable source for high-fidelity
playback?" I'd wager yes, though there will be a segment of the audiophile market
that will resist this change, and there are still technical obstacles to overcome. But
just as DVD gained momentum and a foothold in the video market, so will downloadable music
(if it hasn't already), and then the writing is on the wall. Here comes high-end
MP3!
Pioneer
July 15, 2003
Would you consider reviewing some Pioneer equipment? I
really like it and wonder why GoodSound! does not review it. Their receivers are
especially good.
Glenn Harris
We've been in contact with Pioneer over the years, but
they have yet to send any review samples. We'd love to review their gear, and we hope
they'll come through for us, and you guys, sooner rather than later. Contact them and let
them know GoodSound! is waiting!
Priorities
July 14, 2003
I've heard some "experts" claim that cables make
more difference in a system than almost any other component. I find this hard to believe
as I have not heard this to be true. Do I need a higher-resolution system to hear it?
Shipak Urytra
Cables are not the most important part of your system,
and will not make a bigger difference than "almost any other component." I like
to think of cables as icing on an already good cake. They can make that last bit of
difference, but not change the general constitution of the more important ingredients.
Overall, I'd say speakers play the biggest role in sound quality, followed by your
electronics, with cables bringing up the rear. And if you factor in room acoustics, then
the order changes once again. So get some good-quality cables, but don't obsess over them.
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