Showing posts with label Hifi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hifi. Show all posts

Saturday, December 5, 2015

Top tips for setting up your home for sound!


The above photo is only for illustration. 

Have you always wondered what you can do to bring the best out of the audio equipment that you already have, to experience the most wonderful entertainment at home? Whether it’s your TV, subwoofer or sound bar. Below are some tips.

Where to sit

This is an important factor to maximise audio in your living room. First, you shouldn’t sit too far or too close to the TV screen. The ideal set up for your TV versus couch should be calculated as – Diagonal length of HDTV x 2 = Distance from TV (in feet) – to get the best of surround sound. Second, your main seating location couch should be placed at least one foot away from the rear wall so that bass don’t sound too distorted. Third, the sound bar should be placed directly below the TV, while speakers should be turned 22-30 degrees towards the left and right from where you sit. Lastly, make sure nothing comes between the device and your ears as it’ll block the audio goodness.

Evaluate your room

If echo is strong in your room, try adding sound absorption materials or hard staggered objects such as curtains, books, photo frames and rugs around the area to disperse sound into all directions. Everything in the room impacts how sound travels, so there should be a balance to combat unwanted sound reflection or absorption.

Sound bars beat TV speakers

Full surround sound system is pricey and takes up large space. If you have a cozy little living room, a sound bar is the way to go. It not only enhances audio from the movies and videos you’re watching, it also lets you play music and tunes when you’re entertaining guests.

Subwoofer

Subwoofers give that extra oomph to sound effects and audio tunes. Place a subwoofer at different locations around the room to find out where the bass is most deep and sounds the best.

Hopefully these tips will be helpful for you to re-evaluate how you set up your living room! 


You may also want to watch the video below for a better explanations on the tips. 







Thursday, October 15, 2015

An evening date with Bose SoundTouch



If there is one thing about the Singapore distributor, Altas Singapore for Bose system, their service is top-notch. Way back in 1990s, I bought a Bose home theatre system, Lifestyle System 12 from the Altas founder, Mr AB Tien. I was totally sold for it’s sound quality and Mr. AB Tien ability to market Bose well. I used it before I got married and the system follow me to my current home (married of course). I just love it for both music and the played movie surround sound. A good distributor does help especially the sales staff are knowledgeable and able to answer your questions without any “err, let me get back to you.”

But recently, my system is giving me some hiccups and I am unable enjoy it. Sometimes back, they offered a trade-in deal for my old system. I did not take up the offer as my beloved system is still serving me well. If only they started their favourable trade-in offer again for the current range of SoundTouch systems, I may consider upgrading. Given the opportunity to visit Bose showroom, I jumped at the opportunity ( of course, for the public, you may visit the showrooms anytime if you want to. )

Visiting the beautifully furnished Bose Winstedt showroom is a real treat for my ears. In fact, they have a living room, kitchen and two bedrooms (I do not remember seeing any beds). Bose introduces SoundTouch a while ago and they have included a newly launched SoundTouch 10 which is the smallest unit among the SoundTouch systems. Worth mentioning are the exciting range of SoundTouch systems 20 and 30. As usual, Bose system sounds really good. Great sound through constant research.




I am exceptionally impressed with the new Bose SoundTouch Wave system. Every morning, my first generation of Wave radio without fail, wake us up. The Wave technology is simply awesome and delivers rich sound. But the new Wave system is even better after I verify it with both my ears.



You may install the SoundTouch apps for your iphone or Android phone. SoundTouch apps help to control all your Bose SoundTouch systems into one remote control. This apps really make me a lazy person since I do not need to go over to all my SoundTouch Systems in every rooms in my home.



Different staff demonstrated the various Bose SoundTouch systems such as home entertainment system, outdoor system etc.






In my opinion, Bose never fail to deliver the best sound quality to her customers. If you are looking into one good sound system, do invite Bose SoundTouch into your home. 

Contacts :


If you require an event photographer, wedding photographer or any other professional photography services, do email me ( Derrick See ) at see323@yahoo.com.sg . You can also message me at my  FACEBOOK account. To view my photos, click My Flicker Photos 



Monday, February 16, 2015

I was blown away by TriTone AV Bespoke Home Entertainment and Music System



When I first walked into this audio / video showroom, I sensed an air of differences. At the same time, I was curious about their systems. The welcoming room was not very big but it has two comfortable sofa seats facing an LED TV and comes with a moderate surround sound system in place. I waited and finally, Meryn Augustine Loh came out with a smile on his face. Who is he ? He is the managing director and system designer of TriTone AV, a bespke Audio, Video and Control System design company that help customer to create ideal home theatres systems and turning houses into intuitive homes with a Smart Home systems. Well, that is a very specialised service.

About Meryn


He design, calibrate, set-up and merge products into a finely crafted sound machine. The beauty of the sounds and music will be much appreciated by his clients through his scientific approach in system set-up. Meryn, although still quite young looking, already has many years of experience in the AV industry. He grew up in a family where his parents are in the AV trade.

As a child, with much influence on this field of trade, naturally, his interest built up as he grew older. He later worked for his mother’s family business, Ong Radio, a pioneer company for luxury AV systems in Singapore. His capabilities in designing and tuning systems were well received. He rose to become the Chief System Designer.

With a good ear and sheer hard work, he mastered the art and science in this trade. Besides his Marketing degree from University College Dublin, he furthered his trade skills in the sound technology by going to United States to learn more about sound projection and psychoacoustics.

With his gained insights, he generates ideas and co-develop speakers, electronics and cables with manufacturers. He also developed new methods to achieve the ideal sound for each individual, according to their listening preferences and sensitivities.

Demonstrations

I was brought into another room where sound systems brands such as Legacy speakers, Theta Digital and Mcintosh systems were located. Meryn patiently went on to introduce the different types of music to satisfy our hunger for good sounds and music. I was impressed with the sound quality.






Next was the most exciting room, a truly cinematic experience. It was relatively large room with a screen size of 110 inches. I sat on the comfortable reclining sofa. While waiting, my expectation was running high. True enough, in fact, it exceeded my expectation. It was simply awesome. I can feel my sofa tremble with one of the scenes in a movie. The sound ran from left to right, up and down my ears. That is a true surround system with a blast.


At the end of the session, I wished I could stay longer but I believe good things must be shared with everyone. Maybe someone else was waiting to experience it.

About TriTone



TriTone is an audio specialist that tailors system designs based on scientific and observatory approach to achieve perfectly voiced high-end music systems and convert homes to Smart-Homes. She is also the distributor of Legacy Audio, Theta Digital, and the authorised dealer of Mchintosh Tubes Components, Accuphase, Kaleidescape, Crestron, Piega Switzerland, Dream Vision, Screen excellence, Lowewe, Denon and Marantz, Oppo and Canare.

TriTone also offers consultation services and speaker health checks on acoustic equipment. 

For more information visit



Location :The Adelphi, 1 Colman Street, #04-46, Singapore 179803.


Conclusion


I was impressed by Meryn in-depth knowledge of the sound technology. There is no doubt of his ability to deliver a well-tune sound systems. Beside his excellent skills, he is approachable and possessed excellent communication skills. Rest assured that he will give his best services to each and every of his deserving customer. 

If you require an event photographer, wedding photographer or any other professional photography services, do email me ( Derrick See ) at see323@yahoo.com.sg . You can also message me at my  FACEBOOK account. To view my photos, click My Flicker Photos 

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Sail away with Philips Fidelio – 2015 Launch


Going on board a yacht seems to be a good idea to listen to Philips Fidelio products launch for 2015. To be honest, somehow, the brand Philips never crosses my mind when it comes to music. Most of the time, I would think of Bose, Sony etc. But Philips Fidelio, it’s premium audio, does surprises me with her range of premium quality headphones and my personal favourite is the innovative Philips Fidelio B5.







Philips Sound Heritage

Philips sound heritage have come a long way with her innovations starting from 1923, when she produced the Miniwatt radio valve – a smaller, more powerful and energy efficient solution to the current counterpart. Radio listeners were able to replace headphones with a loudspeaker. For the first time, music could be enjoyed as a shared experience. Then, came a series of Philips milestone of  innovation which shape the future of sound.

1931 – “Chapel Radio” Radio Receiver

1955 – Philetta Radio

1963 – Compact Cassette Recorder

1982 – CD Player

1992 – Digital Compact Cassette Recorder

2000 – Super Audio CD Player

2003 – Streamium Wirless Broadband Internet Micro Hi-Fi System

2010 – Primo Docking Speaker

2012 – Fidelio Surround On Demand Speaker



WOOX Innovations

Philip Fidelio is the start of the new sound era for Philips. WOOX Innovations, innovate, design Fidelio, which strives to improve the entertainment experience. With over 1,900 employees worldwide and headquartered in Hong Kong, WOOX is a Gibson Brands company and a brand licensee of Royal Philips.

Jason Chang, APAC Sales Leader, WOOX Innovations



The speaker, Jason Chang is the APAC Sales Leader for WOOX Innovations, a Philips owned subsidiary focusing on audio and video product categories, with a sales revenues of more than US$1 billion.

“Philips Fidelio is obsessed with taking sound excellence to the next level,” said Jason Chang “With its combination of highly popular features and new audio technologies and enhancements in design, the new range will give our customers sound the way it is meant to be enjoyed.”
  


Here are the following products launching in February and March 2015.

















Philips Fidelio M2L




As one of the first headphones in the market with an optimized Lightning™ connector, the Fidelio M2L kicks off a revolution for high resolution, distortion-free audio for iOS users. Integrated with high-quality 24-bit Digital to Analog Conversion (DAC) and 40mm high definition drivers, the M2L produces a wide dynamic range and a more natural sound experience.  Its acoustic seal eliminates sound leakage while its plush memory foam gives long-lasting comfort.

The Philips Fidelio M2L will be available in March 2015 with a recommended retail price of S$469.


Philips Fidelio M2BT



Building on the legacy of the award-winning M1BT Bluetooth® headphone, the Fidelio M2BT boasts a more refined design and even greater convenience in the form of Near Field Communication (NFC) pairing. A simple tap of the headphone with an NFC device is all it takes to enjoy high-fidelity audio, wirelessly. The ear pad’s dual microphones allow hands-free, better call quality calls to be made easily, while integrated controls in the right ear pad enable quick track selection.
The Philips Fidelio M2BT will be available in February 2015 with a recommended retail price of S$449.


Philips Fidelio NC1



The voyage to sound excellence continues with the Fidelio NC1, the first headphone in the Philips Fidelio range with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature. A combination of high-quality sound, sophisticated design and advanced technology, the NC1 redefines what a noise cancelling headphone can be. Compact, foldable multi-way and lightweight, the NC1 packs a 30-hour battery life, making it the ideal headphone for daily commutes or long trips.
 The Philips Fidelio NC1 will be available in February 2015 with a recommended retail price of S$499.


Philips Fidelio X2





With its Layered Motion Control (LMC) diaphragm and sensitive frequency response, the Fidelio X2 is crafted for listeners seeking an authentic, listening experience featuring rich bass and warm sound. Its acoustic open-backed architecture eliminates air pressure build-up behind the powerful 50mm high-definition neodymium drivers, giving it more freedom to produce a more precise and pristine sound. Its high quality lightweight frame and deluxe memory foam ear pads keep sound in and undesirable ambient noise out.

The Philips Fidelio X2 will be available in March 2015 with a recommended retail price of S$499.

Philips Fidelio B5


Wrapping up the 2015 range is the Philips Fidelio B5 wireless surround soundbar, an ultra-smart and highly versatile audiophile-grade device delivering crystal clear sound performance for TV, movies and music. A major innovation in the Philips Fidelio Surround on Demand range, the soundbar features two wireless detachable Bluetooth® rear speakers and subwoofers, making it the perfect solution for those looking for a stylish and authentic home cinema experience. Regardless of where the speakers are placed in the room, the soundbar’s embedded advanced calibration algorithm ensures a perfectly-balanced surround sound experience.

The Philips Fidelio B5 will be available in February 2015 with a recommended retail price of S$1,699.

Conclusion

As mentioned earlier, my personal favourite is the Philips Fidelio B5. This innovative sound bar had a remarkable surround sound quality. Everything seems easy to setup even with the calibration. Try it out at the audio shops near you. Don’t just take my words for it.

I believe Philips Fidelio is an exciting brand. It will be even more exciting in the years ahead with their innovate products.








Saturday, October 11, 2014

Sony "Feel The Air" Audio Event 2014


Sony picked the right place for their high-resolution audio event at the Timbre @ The Arts House. It was cosy and the atmosphere at the bar were great. The high resolution music was pleasant to our ears while the delicious pizza serving satisfies our stomach. 







At the Timbre @ The Arts House, Sony Audio Event.

Sony staffs both locally and from Japan introduces their latest high resolution audio products. Looking at the latest Walkman, NWZ-A15, I remember my first Sony Walkman, WM-DD100 Boodo Khan in the late 1980s. The new Walkman is so thin and powerful in audio clarity with rich detailed sound. It incorporates a unique S-Master HX digital amplifier which minimise noise and distortion. In addition, the DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) HX technology upscales the quality of compressed sound sources to surpass CD quality.















Latest Sony high resolution Walkman


Next is the impressive MDR-Z7, a premium quality headphone to match today’s finest high-resolution audio sources. It has the biggest 70mm HD driver unit completely envelops the listener’s ear, giving an immense feeling of space. Another headphone XBA-Z5, a hybrid was also a notable product.

World Biggest driver for MDR-Z7 headphone

Sony also introduces PHA-3 headphone amplifier to further enhance the high-resolution audio signals. In addition, Sony collaborated with cable specialist, Kimber Kable to create new MUC cables for better sound playback.



PHA-3 headphone amplifier
















MDR-Z7, PHA-3, MUC cables

Other notable new releases include wearable waterproof Walkman WS610 series, and the new Bluetooth headphones such as the MDR-ZX550BN, wireless speaker SRS-X3 and MAP-S1 (Multi Audio Player System). Not forgetting those expertly crafted high resolution floor standing speakers, SS-NA2ES.

Overall, I was impressed with the sound quality of the new Sony’s products. Over the years, Sony had positioned herself as a leading brand for audio system. Her continuous innovation in search for better quality sound is truly a testimonial of a great company.  


 Wearable Waterproof Walkman W610


Demonstration by Sony staff on their latest High Resolution amplifier and floor standing speakers, SS-NA2ES


Bluetooth Wireless Speaker 










  Japanese developer for MDR-Z7 headphone.