Article: Keeping It Simple - Finding Great Values In Great Sound

[Geoffrey]

Michael Lavorgna argues that, "Computer Audio Is Dead. And Streaming Has Killed It." That's especially true when budget considerations are a listener's highest priority. As a modest system is unlikely to have the resolution to reveal clear differences in source material. 

 

LOTS of choices out there, here's one possible budget/quality system:

Used Blusound Node 2 - $350.00

ADAM Audio T7V 7" Powered Studio Monitor ( Nearfield) - $500.00 pair 

Frequency Response: 39 Hz - 25 kHz 

Definitive Technology ProSub 800 - High Output Compact 300W Powered Subwoofer  

Black- $278.00 - White - $219.00 - 76% buyers give it a five star recommendation, gets down into the 20s. Tight, impactful bass...

 

Tidal or Qobuz subscription: $20. a month...

[Geoffrey]

Talk about whiplash! Here's an option to the Adam Audio nearfield monitors I highlighted above; Morel Audio's Hogtatare Powered speaker - $199.00 (single) $369.00 (pair) indiegogo early bird special. https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/hogtalare-true-hifi-wireless-sound-for-everyone#/ ---- https://ideaing.com/ideas/hogtalare-speaker/

 

Pair these with the Node 2 and a sub and you'd have an impressive budget system. Lots of fine quality, budget priced cables out there too.

[Geoffrey]

John J,

 

Clearly, in this area, your dream woman and you have different priorities. Sonos is known for their simple, intuitive interface, that's what she loves about her Sonos. You, as an audiophile, place SQ as your highest priority. She will never be happy with a more cumbersome interface. You will never be happy with Sonos' at best mid-fi reproduction. Your mission is to find a much higher fidelity alternative to Sonos, one that makes you both happy. Anything less will ultimately, leave you both unhappy and at worst, resentful. Sooner or later, that alternative will appear, indeed it may already exist.