Recently, we reviewed the Pass Labs XP-20 stereo preamplifier, and it was marvelous. Hot on its heels is the new XP-30, which has the analog gain stages for each channel in a separate chassis, making a total of three chassis instead of two. The power supply is more substantial, and there are other changes as well, all resulting in lower noise and better dynamic range. I was surprised at how different the sound was from the XP-20, and the bench test spectra will show you why.

Tags: Class A | Preamplifiers

If you have a home theater system where your bass management isn't as flexible as you would like it to be, an outboard crossover network could solve your problems. Bryston makes several models, and the one I chose to review was the 10B-SUB, which is designed for sending the low frequencies to the subwoofer and the mid/high frequencies to the power amplifiers that drive your left and right front channels. You can select the crossover frequency and the slope for both the low-pass and high-pass outputs. It is superbly constructed, extremely flexible, and its bench test results were first rate.

Tags: Crossover | Crossover Frequency | Crossover Networks

Founded in 1972 by Matt Polk, George Klopfer, and Sandy Gross, Polk Audio has always strived to deliver natural, full-range sound at a competitive price. While no longer run by the founders, Polk Audio still works hard to provide a high-quality sounding product at a price that mere mortals can easily afford. Recently refreshed, the RTi A series of speakers from Polk sports new curve-sided cabinets, upgraded drivers, and real-wood veneer finishes. The Polk RTiA 5.1 Home Theater Speaker System is reviewed here.

Tags: 5.1 | Speakers

It is surprisingly easy to build a high performance speaker for considerably less than purchasing a commercial product. All it takes is a few inexpensive tools, the right plans, a little time and patience. Even for those with little to no construction aptitude. So what to do if you're like me and are able to screw up the most basic home improvement projects, yet still desire to build your own speakers? Answer: Flat-Pack speaker kits.

Tags: Speakers

I am starting to feel very comfortable with LG products of late, having recently reviewed a couple home theater Blu-ray systems, and their 3D LED LCD TV. The BD670 is the first stand alone Blu-ray player from LG that I have tested. So, for $199, how do you think it performed? Hey! Don't make assumptions based on price!

Tags: 3 D | Blu ray

To compare today’s Blu-ray players with the very first models that shipped back in 2006, one would find those early players to be a mere shadow of what’s available today. Early adopters had to live without full lossless sound support, no 24p, no Internet apps, terrible ergonomics, glacially slow load times, and of course, high prices. Now we have models like Toshiba’s BDX-5200 that give you everything but the kitchen sink for under $180. Ain’t technology great?

Tags: 3D Blu ray Players

The extremely evocative, beautiful voice of Annette Cantor that elevates this album of seven songs for meditation and healing is the same voice that, years ago, helped make master musician Deuter’s Garden of the Gods (New Earth Records) one of my favorite New Age albums.

Tags: DVD A | Music Reviews