#High End Integrated Amplifiers

[audio-magic]

Unveiling Audio Magic: Your Gateway to Exquisite Sound with Integrated Amplifiers for Sale

For discerning audiophiles in Australia, the quest for the perfect listening experience is a never-ending journey. At Audio Magic, we understand your passion for pure, unadulterated sound. That's why we're proud to offer a curated selection of integrated amplifiers for sale, meticulously chosen from the world's leading high-end audio equipment brands.

Beyond the Basics: Unveiling the Power of Integrated Amplifiers

Traditional audio setups often require separate components like pre-amplifiers and power amplifiers. Integrated amplifiers, however, offer a streamlined and elegant solution. Here's why they might be the perfect fit for your audio setup:

Simplified System: Integrated amplifiers combine the functionality of a preamplifier and power amplifier into a single unit, minimizing clutter and simplifying system setup.

Space-Saving Design: For those with limited space, integrated amplifiers offer a compact and efficient solution, maximizing listening enjoyment without compromising on audio quality.

Versatility: Modern integrated amplifiers often come equipped with a variety of features, including digital-to-analog converters (DACs), phono inputs for turntables, and headphone jacks, catering to diverse audio sources.

Audio Magic: Your Trusted Source for Integrated Amplifiers for Sale

Choosing Audio Magic as your partner in acquiring an integrated amplifier offers a multitude of benefits:

Unmatched Selection: We offer a carefully curated selection of integrated amplifiers from leading brands renowned for their exceptional sound quality and innovative design.

Expert Guidance: Our team of passionate audio specialists is here to guide you through the selection process. We understand your specific needs and preferences and will recommend the perfect integrated amplifier to elevate your listening experience.

Unwavering Quality: We prioritize quality in everything we do. Our selection of integrated amplifiers is built with premium components and delivers unparalleled sonic performance.

The Symphony of Sound: Exploring the Benefits of Integrated Amplifiers

Investing in a high-quality integrated amplifier unlocks a world of sonic benefits:

Breathtaking Sound Quality: Experience exceptional clarity, detail, and power from your music. Integrated amplifiers from our collection are meticulously engineered to deliver audio that's faithful to the original recording.

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Audio Magic: Beyond the Integrated Amplifier

While integrated amplifiers are a cornerstone of our offering, we provide a complete audio experience:

Complimentary Components: Explore our range of high-end speakers, turntables, and audio cables to create a perfectly synchronized audio system.

Expert Installation: Our team can expertly install your new integrated amplifier and ensure it's seamlessly integrated with your existing audio setup.

Ongoing Support: We are committed to providing ongoing support even after your purchase. Our team is always happy to answer your questions and guide you on your audio journey.

Embrace the Magic of Music: Visit Audio Magic Today

Ready to elevate your listening experience and rediscover the magic of music? Here's why Audio Magic is the ideal partner:

Unwavering Passion: We share your passion for high-fidelity sound and are dedicated to helping you achieve audio nirvana.

Demonstration Rooms: Visit our showrooms to experience the breathtaking sound quality of our integrated amplifiers for sale firsthand.

Competitive Pricing: We offer competitive pricing on a diverse range of integrated amplifiers to suit every budget and audiophile desire.

Don't Settle for Ordinary Sound: Explore Integrated Amplifiers for Sale at Audio Magic Today

Upgrade your audio experience with a premium integrated amplifier from Audio Magic. Visit our website to explore our carefully curated selection of world-renowned brands. Contact our team of audio specialists for expert guidance, and embark on a journey towards sonic bliss. Let Audio Magic be your gateway to a world of captivating and unforgettable sound.

Contact- Web - https://www.audiomagic.com.au/products?Products=Integrated+Amplifier Mail - info@audiomagic.com.au Ph - +61 39489 51 22 Address - 215 Bell St, Preston VIC 3072 Melbourne, Australia

[recycledraccoon]

What happens next? What happens when The Bad Kids do what they do best and save the world? What happens when the RAGE is suddenly gone?

Would they ashamed of themselves? Of what they did? Of who they became?

.

.

You were a naive teenage freshman, and two teachers you trusted were manipulating you into a monster. You didn't notice, distracted by typical teenage problems and petty insecurities. You didn't fight it. You walked willingly down the easy path and became pawns in their grand plan.

You know how it started. This is how it ends.

(YOU HATE THEM THEY ARE IN YOUR WAY AND YOU ARE GOING TO KILL THEM AND PROVE YOURSELF BETTER FINALLY! THERE IS NO MORE WAITING YOU ARE CROSSING BLADES AND FLINGING SPELLS WITH UNRELENTING WRATH AND DEADLY INTENTIONS-)

They fight you. Their teamwork is flawless in a way your party's has never been. Their awareness of the battlefield and their control over it makes it all the more apparent that this battle is a raging wild thunderstorm trying to break apart a mountain standing tall and insurmountable. The mountain does not so much as bend, for all that you blast holes and carve deep into the rock. The mountain does not bend, nor bow, much less-

The storm will always break first.

It ends like this-

(WHY ISNT THIS WORKING WHY ARE THEY STILL FIGHTING THEY WONT DIE THEYWONTDIETHEYWONT-PAIN. IT HURTS! IT HURTS! NO!! NO NO NONONOPAINNOPAINNOPAINNOPAI-)

You die.

.

.

.

.

Dying like this is vengeance. It is retribution.

.

.

.

But it is not JUSTICE.

.

.

.

Let's try again.

You wake up.

(Doubt shepherds you back through the dark.

Justice and Conviction, like sunlight warm and golden, breaks over the horizon.

The rage implanted inside you dissolves into golden light to join the dawn.)

You are a Dragonborn, no longer little or weak by any means, but it still feels like nothing ever changed at all from that very first day. You feel very small, rubbing at a chest that is incredibly tender and sore.

Before your blurry eyes, are The Bad Kids. Battered, bruised, bloody. Standing tall, heroic, and undefeated.

The Cleric of Doubt and Paladin of Justice both have brought you back to breathing, and you watch in awe and horror as all of your friends are awake too.

Idly, you realise they also rub at their chests near immediately. You look down and find no red star-like gem of rage embedded there. Only ugly, fully healed scars like a jagged star.

(What have you done?)

Later, there will be questions and officials and repercussions. Justice for you will look like second chances, and the hard unending road of righting the wrongs you have done.

Death is the easy way out.

Redemption is hard.

For right now, the heroes before you are wearily celebrating, cracking jokes and rubbing blood off their faces. All the while your party is still gathering your bearings, and you have no idea where your glasses are.

Shame rolls in your gut and even as you and your friends sit together you can barely look at each other.

Finally, words are exchanged, a clearing of the board. It doesn't fix anything of what you've done, but you know without doubt if you ever try anything again they will not bring you back a second time. You settle in to wait for whatever authorities will be coming.

(Later, while you are in a cell waiting to find out what happens next, your party will be told that the friend you killed was brought back, the curse preventing her revival broken. You are not the only one in those cells to weep, loud and ugly and so so relieved.)

A pair of cracked glasses appear in front of you, held by a hand with bloody knuckles. You put them on, blink as you adjust to the cracked glass but vision once more clear. You see the bloody knuckles again, and with a jolt realize those are the hands that killed you. You died under the crunch of a furious fist you never anticipated.

You look up.

When you saw her for the first time, she was a cute, if sometimes awkward, elven girl in your Thursday classes. You kept seeing her, even as she became renowned and remarkable, even as you had been slowly getting angrier.

The first time she ever smiled at you, you had hated her already. She had been very pretty, and if you had been anything less than actively planning to kill her, you think her expert spell craft but awkward stumbling of words and red cheeks would have left you utterly enchanted in truth.

Later, before you fight and die, the look she gives you is cold and piercing, determined. The only red on her cheeks is blood that had splattered there.

You look up.

The Elven Oracle, the most powerful divination wizard you have ever met or will ever meet again, stands towering above you for all that you know logically she is at least a foot shorter than you.

Her blonde hair is a mess, clothes dirty and ripped and stained dark in some places. Her eyes flicker with the magic of the powerful Oracle she is, as she stares down at you.

(You wonder what she sees about you in those flickers.)

She frowns, lips pursed for a moment, but her hands clench and you think for moment she might punch you to death again. Or yell at you maybe, but is biting her tongue.

Instead, with one last look of piercingly cold eyes that could kill, she turns to join her friends, leaving you behind without hesitation or second thought, or even a last word.

(Good for her.)

You are a horrible coward. Selfish and capable of cruelty that makes your shame increase tenfold. She had smiled at you and chilled a drink in your hand. She defended you and called you cool to her friends that day in the cafeteria. You took advantage of that, of those tender early feelings, and crushed them under an angry, undeservingly bitter, heel.

You are a horrible selfish coward, and you don't think you've ever seen anyone more beautiful in your life than her, even as she walks away from you.

You can't ever imagine she will ever smile at you again now. What future will there ever be, where she sees you and her eyes aren't cold and scornful? Nothing more than a bitter memory to be forgotten and set aside for better things. How could she ever see anything you say or do as genuine ever again? You certainly wouldn't.

(The way your heart pounds in your chest, fast and heavy, feels like yet another sin on your sagging scaled shoulders. There is an intense moment of painful, shameful yearning that you swallow down, down, down and away. Watching her back as she walks away will be more than you ever deserve to have gotten in the first place. More than you think you will ever deserve again in whatever life you scrap together after this.)

Life, as ever, continues after that day like it always has and always will.

You go to prison for a time, as what you and your friends did as minors- manipulated or not- are legally responsible for in the aftermath is decided. You go to therapy, serve a very forgiving sentence, and when you go on parole your time is eaten up by both mandatory and voluntary community service.

You try to get better. To be better. You think you and your party are true friends now, bound together by bitter shame at what you've all done and gone through together.

(The first person who visits your party while in prison who isn't a member of any of your families, is Lucy Frostblade. Even as a Cleric of a Sorrowful God, you don't think you've ever seen her more sad than sitting across from all of you, warded glass between. There are no apologies that will ever be enough.

But Lucy has always, always been braver and stronger than any of you. The power of her conviction is something wondrous.

She always tried to be that fire to keep the cold and dark at bay, even as it risked burning her. By all the gods, you had burned her to ash, and yet here she is again. Alive and renewed. A campfire relit and flickering in the distance, promising safety and warmth.

Despite everything, Lucy sits across from all of you and promises to see you through this.)

Days go by. Never again are the seven of you known as The Rat Grinders, except in past tense when speaking the history of your sins. You don't go back to being High Five Heros, but you grow into something new together.

You still fight rage some days. It makes you feel sick and scared. You always are afraid of what is genuine emotion and what is lingering from the star-scar on your chest.

You still think about her sometimes.

(Selfishly you hope you are a distant memory to her, and she never thinks of you and your cruelty to her again. Even more selfishly, even more shamefully, there is a tiny part in your heart where you wish she doesn't forget you like you know you won't forget her. It's better to smother that part of your heart into deeper and deeper depths, hoping beyond hope that painful yearning doesn't overcome you and cause it to rise up again. She deserves a life without having to deal with people like you.)

The thing about The Bad Kids, is how ironic their name is given how genuinely and unabashedly good they are.

Lucy remains their friend, even as she helps the rest of them on their steady journey back from evil.

This means it's inevitable that the two once rival parties meet again. It's awkward at first, but The Bad Kids give them shit and rag on them as easily as they extend kindness. You will meet more people and realize that you are not the first villains in their lives they've forgiven.

You give the beautiful Elven Oracle as a sincere apology for the past as you can. She quirks an eyebrow at you, and as lovely a sight as it is, the shame is greater. You don't know if she believes you in the slightest. You don't want to find out.

You do your best to not bother her at all, on the occasions the two parties meet.

(Try as you might, you are powerless to stop your eyes from locking onto her the second she enters any room you are in. You always look away as quickly and casually as you can, frazzled heart pounding like a traitor. It's harder to not watch whenever she walks away, the memory of the day she walked away from you locked in your mind like crystal glass.)

You keep moving forward. Life goes on. You keep a pair of cracked spectacles in a box in your closet. On the bad days, when you hate yourself the most, you look and remember that you have been given kindness and a second chance by people who hated you. If they gave you a second chance, you feel it would be in poor taste to not extend yourself that same courtesy.

You and your friends become legally speaking, free souls. You get qualifications and find work that feels right for you. There are some things you and your friends never joke about again, but you find new things to fill in those gaps.

You move on. You're not sure if it's working sometimes, but you keep moving anyway. Relationships become easier, you try new things and meet more people. You have a whole life left to live. One day you find yourself capable and confident, which is a bit of a surprise. You try every day to be as sincere and honest as you can.

(Sometimes, you feel a powerful, almost familiar, gaze on you. You were a coward once. You never took on a quest you thought you couldn't beat, the fear of failure hanging above too great. It's been a long time, and you are a very different person now. You are still too much of a coward to ever turn around to find that gaze.)

One day, you agree to go do a job as a favor to a friend. Your field is specialized, and you enjoy working in a field that makes your brain work, writing out pages and pages of complicated maths and spell work. Either way, you have the qualifications and are confident you can get it done and settled far faster and better than anyone else your friend could have asked.

You go to the job, and are caught off guard and flustered when there happens to be a beautiful Elven woman also working on the project. She looks up at you with a powerful gaze, a cocked eyebrow and a smirk that feels a little like a challenge, a dare.

(You want to run away, hide, calm the heart that you find to be a selfish, shameful traitor even after all this time. It pounds in your chest hard enough your afraid it might just kill you.)

You walk in to get started, hands already reaching for a folder of information being handed to you from a college as you gets the run down, ready to work.

Minor thoughts on Oisin and how he seems primed to fuck over Adaine specifically. The flustered ping-pong balls that were a plan all along. The quoting her own words on the previous Elven Oracle back at her in regards to the storm.

I mean...imagine you're a skinny little dragonborn wizard, in a class with a cute elven girl. You don't talk to her, but one of your adventuring party members is pissing thinking that party is getting preferential treatment, so you KNOW about her. You watch from the corner of your eye or from a spot on the back of the class whenever she's actually there. Partway through the year she goes to jail, and when she comes back she and her adventuring party save the world from a dragon. (A dragon of whom your Grandmother had been fond. ((Also, coincidentally, the Vice Principal.))) One of them created a god.

(Your entire party is being groomed into rage by two of your teachers.)

You're in her class again. She is the Elven Oracle, already an accomplished adventurer. She and her friends are popular. She's very pretty. She does not know your name. She does not know who you are, just a skinny dragonborn a few seats back.

You go on your Sophomores Year Spring Break Adventure and don't bother to think about her party at all.

(You and your party are going to kill a god. Your teacher is going to ascend to godhood in their place and you and your party will have Made That Happen. You are angry and determined with each final blow you deal.)

You return from Spring Break angry and with a sore chest.

You find out the elven girl's party has resurrected a dead god and the live streamed the entire fight. They must think they're so much better than you and your party. You'll show them.

(Your friend refuses to change her faith. She cancels the paperwork. The rest of you kill her, confident she will make the right choice and join you again as a proper Champion for your new god. You help kill her. She does not get back up. You hide the body and none of you can say anything. You're so so angry.)

The world descended into darkness and you can do nothing. The sun finally breaks across the sky again right before Junior year. You and your party have made plans and are on the cusp of greatness. You've gained muscles to spare and ink on your scales in carefully selected runes, no longer just a skinny little dragonborn.

(You have a new cleric. He's not your friend. He's a haystack hick from that cult-church from Freshman year, and he's here because the god you're going to kill needs a Champion and he fits the bill, nothing more.)

The first day of school the plan starts to be put in motion. Immediately that party of kids is interfering, in your way. It rackles. You push on anyway, seething inside even as you act the part of being reasonable.

You go to a party at the houses of one of her friends. You've been practicing making spell runes on the inside of ping-pong balls. You're ready.

The pretty Elven girl in your class finally looks at you. She approaches you, gives you a drink, and chills it in your hand. She has to ask your name. You have shared certain wizarding classes with her since Freshman year, tho she was barely there. You have to tell her that.

You chat. She clearly gets flustered, calls you great, and flees back into the house. Your friend teases you for others to overhear. It's a convenient excuse to use your geometry and apply physics to miss every single shot and lay your trap. The drink isn't so perfectly chilled in your hand anymore.

(You talk to her. Play nice. She isn't smooth, but she smiled at you and maybe a part of you is vindictive in seeing her flustered. It's a shame she turned down the diamonds, as dragon madness would have been so poetic. You steal her summons to steal something from the house. She didn't know your name. Didn't remember you. You feel justified. Your anger burns cold like frostbite, like static in the air. You purposely don't wonder if that first miss was intentional or genuine.)

You see each other in class sometimes.

You plot and kill monsters the woods. You will win the battle. You will win the war.

Your parties have a standoff in the cafeteria. You play your part to diffuse the situation, your teacher has been harping on your friends to stop antagonizing the other party. You feel her mind touch yours gentle probing of intentions, her friends all around her as you lock eyes.

(The devil's honey your group gets from that bee girl all goes to your teacher. He is preparing himself to ascend to godhood, and he needs it for his prayers.)

She is searching for your intentions and feelings. You tell her only 'Sorry'. She believes you. You are not entirely sure why. She and her party will hopefully die during their Last Stand exam, and have no way to revive themselves in time, be trapped there until after elections.

Maybe she just wasn't perceptive enough to see the deception.

(You hate her and all her friends. You have had no devil's honey. She believes you. Briefly, you wonder if it was a lie at all.)

They catch you. They know. Your team goes to ground and waits out the remaining days 'til elections and the culmination of everything you've been working for.

It rains at the party, and you have no more masks. You are angry. She must never have been that good of an Oracle at all, and you take joy in mocking her with her own words from long ago.

She's nothing more than an elven girl in your class who was full of herself to remember your name.

(There is nothing left now to stop you from being as openly angry as you like.)

[accusticarts]

The new PLAYER IV is a top-class CD player and D/A converter and the great successor to the well-known PLAYER II. The CD module used is the CD Pro-8, the successor to the legendary Philips CDPro2.

[zahraaziza]

a call to action for everyone who is passionate about palestine:

i have no idea who this message is going to reach, but for the little time i am on this platform, i will amplify the importance of partaking in raising awareness for the palestinian cause.

since i haven't been on here for a long time, i was honestly shocked to return to a ton of informative posts, reblogged in high numbers by my mutuals, on what is happening in palestine.

this current movement on social media, the fact that people across generations are, slowly but surely, waking up to the 76 years of torment, land theft, occupation and genocide the palestinian people are subjected to, has never happened before.

it was about damn time.

everyone, let it be a die heart zionist, a willingly ignorant person or the "people" that are in charge and have all the buttons below their fingertips that could get them to put an end to all of this-

they are never ever going to stop at making you feel insignificant. they are going to downplay your efforts as an activist. they are going to make you question your integrity. they are going to bring up seemingly unrelated issues, in a deplorable effort to make you feel like the "load" that we, as activists and people that are trying to raise awareness about palestine, carry is too much of a burden, to keep going.

they'll tell you things like:

"what is my contribution going to change? we're all doomed to die anyways with how things are going"

"what could a singular dollar/ euro, that i spend, possibly do to support israel? i don't wanna miss out on (xyz item)"

"well if you're so adamant about saving the world, then why don't you go to gaza yourself?"

"yeah right, if that's the case then i would have to also care about (xyz historically oppressed group of people) and i would have to do this, this and that to raise awareness on (xyz historically oppressed group)"

never ever let these individuals in. never ever let them see you doubting your own self or your efforts as an activist.

when i tell you that standing on business has never been more crucial, you can take my word for it.

as someone who, due to the communities i belong to, has practically grown up defending this cause, i can tell you that the tides have not once started to turn the slightest bit in favor for the palestinian cause in the publics perception. most especially in the west.

now is the time to get up on our feet and make room for palestinian voices, not the seeds of doubt planted by zionists.

anyone that still genuinely believes that one, they can't do anything to bring about any change

two, believes there is any legitimacy in the existence of an "israeli state",

or three, denounces and dares to critique the forms of resistance coming from the oppressed palestinians, after five whole months of the ongoing israeli operation to annihilate them to move closer to the achievement of the "greater israel" project, is immediately disqualified in any discussions on the palestinian fight for freedom.

don't ever give your time to zionist apologists or people that try to infiltrate the pro watermelon movement, in order to gain an outlet, in which they can voice their sympathy for core ideas of the zionist movement (a right to israels existence, pseudo self defense argument, pseudo the people are not the state argument, pseudo not all israelis are settlers argument) without further notice.

now is the time of focus. partake in all the activities you can. do your part. do what is achievable.

palestinians, whether it be in the diaspora or on the ground in gaza and the west bank, don't have time for our inconsistencies.

try to control your spending habits as much as you can, try to control the pop culture (tv, music, film) you consume as much as you can. that is the very least we can do.

also, a teeny tiny, but crucial note, we all need to internalize is the fact that we need to decenter ourselves from the end goal, which is the liberation of palestine and land back to the palestinian people.

the people that are going to free palestine aren't us.

palestinians are going to free palestine. the palestinian resistance is going to free palestine.

our obligation is to facilitate that to happen. we partake in the bds boycott, put pressure on representatives of our countries and take to the streets and social media to make the voices of palestine heard.

looking inward and coming to that realization is utmost important for us as non palestinians to know our place in the bigger picture, so we can move on, organize and operate from there.

by no means am i a representative of this cause. but i am human. so i hope that you could all take something from my message.

from the river to the see, palestine will be free!!!

[linuxreinstall]

KDE 6.1 Review!

When immersing oneself in the sonic landscape of KDE 6.1, one is instantly enveloped by a symphony of precision and elegance. This latest release from the venerable KDE community is nothing short of an opus, each element finely tuned to harmonize in a resplendent orchestration of functionality and aesthetic.

Visual Fidelity:

From the very first glance, KDE 6.1 presents an interface that is both visually stunning and meticulously crafted. The new Plasma desktop environment resonates with the clarity of a high-end DAC, delivering crisp, vibrant visuals that seem almost tangible. The attention to detail in the design is akin to the craftsmanship of a bespoke amplifier, where every pixel is placed with purpose, resulting in an interface that is both beautiful and intuitive.

Performance Dynamics:

KDE 6.1's gaming performance is akin to the dynamic range of a top-tier audiophile system. It handles intensive tasks with the effortless grace of a well-balanced turntable, spinning with unwavering precision. The responsiveness of the system is immediate, akin to the attack and decay of a perfectly tuned electrostatic headphone, providing an experience that is both powerful and nuanced.

Feature Set:

The suite of features in KDE 6.1 is reminiscent of an all-encompassing, high-fidelity audio setup, with HDR and Adaptive Sync that cater to the needs of both casual users and power users alike. The integration of new technologies and enhancements feels as seamless as the signal path in a purist audio chain, ensuring that each component works in perfect synergy to enhance the overall experience.

Customization and Control:

Much like a tube amplifier with endless possibilities for tube rolling, KDE 6.1 offers an unparalleled level of customization. Users can tweak and tailor every aspect of their environment, creating a bespoke desktop experience that mirrors the audiophile's pursuit of the perfect sound. The control KDE 6.1 affords is both deep and intuitive, allowing for fine-tuning that would satisfy even the most discerning connoisseur.

Stability and Reliability:

In terms of stability, KDE 6.1 stands as a rock-solid experimental preamp, delivering a consistent and reliable performance that might crash once in a while. The robustness of the system is evident in its ability to handle a multitude of applications and processes without faltering, akin to the unwavering steadiness of a high-end, belt-driven turntable.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, KDE 6.1 is a masterpiece that embodies the same passion, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail found in the finest audiophile equipment. It offers a rich, immersive experience that is as satisfying to the user as a meticulously curated audio setup is to the listener. For those who seek a desktop environment that delivers both form and function with unparalleled finesse, KDE 6.1 is the definitive choice—a true testament to the art of computing.

Reinstall tonight to experience this unparalleled blend of beauty and performance firsthand.

[fuzzkaizer]

BOSS - CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

"... yeah, there’s a reason why they occupy so much Cabinet real estate. The company created the “first” of a variety of effects, and was certainly the first to offer many types in compact boxes. However, one such pedal is a stone-cold all-time classic despite never being offered in Boss’s trademark compact enclosure. That pedal is the CE-1 Chorus Ensemble.

Released one year after parent company Roland’s flagship Jazz Chorus amplifiers, Boss did what was once considered the unthinkable. Following the rapid and perhaps unexpected success of the aforementioned amp series, Roland wasted no time with ripping a circuit straight from them and putting them in a floor unit. In fact, this circuit ended up being the first pedal to bear the Boss name, and what a first it was.

Back when the CE-1 was conceptualized, the idea of mains-powered pedals was pretty commonplace. Mu-Tron effects used them, and so did MXR on some of its more ambitious models. Onboard and oftentimes custom-wound transformers ensured that voltages would be stepped down at precisely the right increments in order to preserve tonal integrity and headroom.

Of course, most pedals of the time also ran on nine-volt batteries, establishing a standard that continues today. But before these standards were established, the idea of grandiose effects thrived under the usage of mains power. Such a boundless canvas allowed companies like Boss to rip entire hunks of circuitry straight from larger silicon conglomerates and put them right at a player’s feet. These days, very few manufacturers offer such exacting circuitry, and the few that do charge exorbitant prices.

The CE-1 is one particularly exceptional example of this practice, because it expands on the original circuit, with the added bonus that you can play it through an actual tube amplifier. It also adds an extra functionality that the Jazz Chorus just couldn’t match. The Jazz Chorus gives players both Chorus and Vibrato modes, and to that end, serves up three knobs, of which Speed and Depth are two. The third knob is actually a rotary switch that chooses either mode. While the JC-120 offers a footswitch input to toggle the effect on and off, the CE-1 does one better and converts the rotary switch into a stompable button, meaning you don’t have to do the Angus Young duckwalk back to your amp mid-set to change modes. Nobody wants to do this.

Roland’s Jazz Chorus—and thusly the CE-1—couldn’t have come at a better time for end-users or commerce. Californian semiconductor company Reticon developed the first bucket-brigade device (BBD) and distributed them through the usual suspects, including Radio Shack under the store’s in-house Archer brand. The only problem—again for end-users and commerce—was that each one cost a crazy amount of 1970s dollars. Even at wholesale prices, Reticon’s SAD series of BBD chips made effects a bit on the expensive side.

Shortly after in Japan, Matsushita released the genesis of the Japanese BBD boom that ended up sinking Reticon and all pedals that relied on it. The first chip off the Matsushita line was the MN3002 and found its way into the CE-1 tout de suite. With the combination of the relatively inexpensive BBD and the full-strength brawn of the circuit itself, the CE-1 made a splash in the effects world and primed the pump for Boss’s compact series to take the effects world by storm.

The most unsung piece of the CE-1 puzzle is the onboard preamp that preps the signal for its impending modulation. While many effects and amplifiers (especially of this era) features “high” and “low” inputs, they usually correspond to a brute force approach that swaps out resistors in the signal path. However, the CE-1 preamp section starts with an op-amp preamp circuit that sweetens the signal, and switching over to high mode inserts a transistorized gain stage between the input and the op-amp section. This adds a velvety gloss to the signal before it ever sniffs the BBD chip, catapulting your tone into heights unreached by lesser devices.

It’s not often that almost 50 years later, no effect of a given type has surpassed the first one ever created, but such is the case with the CE-1. Its combination of unsurpassed tonal brilliance, component count and wacky power requirements has cemented its place in the effects hall of fame, leaving even the most modern refinements squarely in the rear-view mirror."

cred: catalinbread.com/blogs/kulas-cabinet/boss-ce-1-chorus-ensemble

[sistaseparatist]

The Persecution of Activists at Dongduk Women’s University

Founded by the pioneering educator Dr. Lee Tai-soon in 1950, Dongduk Women’s University was established with the vision of empowering womyn through education in a time when opportunities for womyn were limited. Originally starting as a small womyn’s college, the institution grew rapidly, expanding its programs and facilities to meet the evolving needs of Korean society. Over the decades, the university has maintained a strong focus on cultivating strong female leaders and professionals in various fields, contributing significantly to the advancement of womyn in South Korea.

Womyn’s education in South Korea has undergone a dramatic transformation, particularly in the 20th century. In the early years of the Korean Empire and under Japanese rule, educational opportunities for womyn were limited, with traditional gender roles strongly restricting their access to schooling. However, after the Korean War and during the rapid modernization of the 1960s and 1970s, womyn’s access to education expanded significantly. The establishment of universities like Dongduk Women's University in the 1950s was a pivotal moment—as it provided a platform for women to pursue higher education and contribute to the country’s economic and social development. Today, South Korea has one of the highest rates of female higher education enrollment in the world, symbolizing the importance of womyn’s education, and the impact it could have of womyn’s mobility in society.

On the date of November 4th, the University announced that it would begin opening its doors to male students (co-ed integration). This comes on the tail end of complaints about the decreasing birth rates in the country—blaming womyn for having “too many options” and “losing sight of the family.”

Recently, there has been controversy in Asia regarding co-ed universities sabotaging womyn’s education, and lowering their examinations scores in order to secure apprenticeships and sufficient employment opportunities for the male students.

Since November 11th, the female students protested valiantly using methods like occupying the buildings and offices, crashing the registration website, and reaching out to international journalists to help them tell their story.

THESE TACTICS HAVE WORKED…FOR NOW.

But a temporary victory is not enough. Our sisters in Korea are facing huge cultural backlash against advancements made in favor of female people in law, the economy, and in education. They’re asking us to help them continue to apply pressure on Dongduk Women’s University, until an official decision is made.

Dongduk Women's University has announced it will temporarily pause co-ed discussions as of now while promising it will include students if it were to start discussions again.

The problem is, Korea is extremely hostile to womyn and Feminists. Male supremacist groups and local terrorists have begun tracking and reporting activists to police in order to have them arrested—sabotaging their mission to try and protect their education. They threaten the female students with violence, rape, bombings, arson, and doxxing in order erase them into silence.

The University’s administration even saw fit to coerce its female students for citing financial issues to which these womyn will be vulnerable.

Two men had even snuck onto university grounds, and it is still unknown what their intentions were outside of generally terrorizing the students.

Representative Lee Jun-seok indirectly sided with the men’s groups in a statement to the media, claiming that womyn’s universities are no longer a necessity, and that the female students should be grateful to integrate with males, despite high rates of sex based violence in co-ed universities.

———

Please review and amplify the following:

REDDIT — Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3 | Link 4 | Link 5 | Link 6 | Link 7

[offtorivendell]

Do you think Nesta/Cassian have a true mate bond or a corrupt cauldron bond? I see a lot of people say they think Eris is her true mate and some people say the complete opposite 😅

Hi anon!

Disclaimer: more word vomit I'm sorry.

TW: discussion includes birthing winged babies and all that entails. If this is a sore topic for you, then I recommend giving this a pass. 💜

Spoilers: I'll be discussing the entire Maasverse, please beware.

I think both Nessian and Feysand have true or soul bonds, which I suspect may be a type of carranam bond, rather than corrupted Cauldron bonds.

Whether or not true/soul bonds are equivalent to carranam bonds - though as I have said before, it appears the sisters may have powers "to match" the brothers (per ACOSF) - it would make ZERO sense for Feyre and Nesta to be mated to Rhys and Cassian respectively for the sole purpose of creating more powerful offspring, given the risk to mother and child when a winged bub is born to a woman with the (I'm sorry) incorrectly shaped uterus/birth canal. And wasn't there a 50/50 chance of a winged baby, with a full Illyrian procreating with a high fae female? Those aren't great odds for the Asteri. But both couples do share bonds consisting of multiple golden threads, ergo: I suspect they share the true or soul bonds about which @silverlinedeyes and @icedflames originally theorised years ago now.

Personally - and imo this was supported by HOFAS, with what we learnt of Hunt's ancestry and design - I lean towards Feysand, Nessian and Elriel all being foretold as a way to free their land from the magical chains left by the Asteri/Daglan of the past. I think that what is most important is the pairing's ability to support each other, and make each other more powerful, rather than to create stronger children from which the Daglan can feed, hence why they complement each other's magic so well and, if I'm right about them being carranam, they can act as conduits for each other as well, further amplifying their strengths.

To complete the poetic balance of 3x3 being fated, I think Elriel were also meant to have a true/soul bond until Koschei (or Someone) loaned his (or Their) otherworldly magic to the King of Hybern*, allowing him to control the Cauldron. This hypothetical, new ability to Make powerful spells, combined with Azriel being downed by Jurian's poisoned ash arrow to the chest, may have created an opening for the corrupted Cauldron to cast a thread between Elain and the next best male, Lucien.

* My thoughts are that Koschei is either a prince of Hel and/or a Valg-type creature (how that plays in with the Daglan I'm unsure), and the King of Hybern was possessed in a way similar to what we experienced in TOG. But if the King of Hybern was a Valg prince, or had the borrowed powers of a Valg king (or queen), then it is not out of the realm of possibility that he could have tweaked the threads of fate to generate a false bond between Elain and Lucien in order to keep Elain and Azriel apart, as Maeve did between Rowan and Lyra to separate him from his true mate, Aelin. There are great theories that delve into the parallels between Elriel and Rowaelin, I recommend checking out @riddlecrux (I'm 99% sure).

It's always fun to theorise, so as always, no hate to anyone who thinks differently than me - shipping with your heart is absolutely valid, even if your fav pairing doesn't end up being canon - but I really do not think that SJM is splitting her loved up pairs with accepted mating bonds. This goes for Feysand, Nessian and Bryceriel Quinlar (hooray fatigue), all of whom have made strong declarations of love for each other. That would cheapen SJM's romances so much.

Besides that, while I understand focusing on ships - because this is romantasy after all, and the couples are integral to the overall plot - I don't see how Nesta and Eris would work into the poetry of a prophecy that we already know:

Life and death and rebirth

Sun and moon and dark

Rot and bloom and bones

Hello, sweet thing. Hello, lady of night, princess of decay. Hello, fanged beast and trembling fawn. Love me, touch me, sing me.

Madness. Where the first half had been cold cunning, this box … this was chaos, and disorder, and lawlessness, joy and despair. [...] Rhys picked up the Book of Breathings.

Light and dark and gray and light and dark and gray— - ACOMAF, chapter 57

The Book of Breathings gave us this beauty back in ACOMAF, and while there are many attempts to make sense of it (and I think many could be right), if we're talking about romantic pairings, I don't see how it could encompass any ships other than those of the brothers and sisters present. Where would the balance be in that? While there are certainly plots that people have theorised for pairings other than these three (and of course, I acknowledge that Elriel isn't canon endgame at this point in time), I haven't read any that would tie into the themes of three we have seen established by SJM: sisters, brothers, mountains, stars etc.

Eris is an intriguing character and Neris a fun ship (I don't hate it at all), but in canon it wouldn't flow, at least to me. Though of course I could be wrong.

Anyway, sorry for the mess of this response. I hope my thoughts make at least some sense lol.

Edit: I was about to post and then @wingedblooms and her beautiful mind struck again. Anon - and anyone else - please read her reblog of my post about the Asteri corrupting mating bonds, it's beautifully written and I have similar thoughts (as usual).

[marveltrumpshate]

Equity & Access

We have many organizations that are fighting for equity of marginalized groups through legal advocacy and services or urgent crisis/medical relief, but we also wanted to highlight the ones that are working towards equity and access from a non-legal/relief perspective. 

For more information on donation methods and accepted currencies, please refer to our list of organizations page.

Amputee Coalition

The Amputee Coalition supports, educates, and advocates for people impacted by limb loss and limb difference as well as their families and caretakers. They developed the National Limb Loss Resource Center, have a large focus on peer support programs, advocate on the federal and state level, and offer educational programming. They also fund local chapters that serve amputees across the globe.  

Assistance Dogs International

Assistance dogs are essential to millions around the world but are cost-prohibitive for many. Supporting this organization will mean that this essential service is less of an economic burden for those who need it. In addition to training and placement, ADI advocates for the legal rights of people with disabilities partnered with assistance dogs and sets standards, guidelines, and ethics for training the dogs.

Clean Air Task Force

As we've seen for a long time now but especially this year with constant natural disasters and alarming news from all over the world, climate change is real and we need to do something about it. Over the past 25 years, CATF, a group of climate and energy experts who think outside the box to solve the climate crisis, has pushed for technology innovations, legal advocacy, research, and policy changes. Their goal is to achieve a zero-emissions, high-energy planet at an affordable cost. Everyone deserves clean air and CATF ensures access to the planet for all of us, which science tells us hangs in the balance. 

Global Fund for Women

Global Fund for Women is the largest global organization for gender justice. They support grassroots feminist movements and organizations around the world for maximum local impact and have provided over $184 million in grants to 5,000+ women’s funds in 176 countries over the past three decades. Their recent focus has been providing mobilization and networking resources for women and girls in their own communities and amplifying those voices so they’re heard in the global community.

The Pad Project

Period stigma and lack of access to affordable, safe, and effective menstrual products are a global problem. The Pad Project partners with local communities internationally to serve people of all genders who menstruate through funding the placement of pad machines and implementing washable pad programs. They also pair menstrual product access with education—workshops on menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health and their award-winning documentary, Period. End of Sentence.

Waterkeeper Alliance

In 1966, this movement was started by a band of blue-collar fishermen pushing back against industrial polluters, and their tough spirit remains intact through the 300+ local community groups that make up the global Waterkeeper Alliance today. The Alliance works to ensure, preserve, and protect clean and abundant water for all people and creatures. Their programs are diverse, spanning from patrolling waterways against polluters to advocating for environmental laws in courtrooms and town halls and educating in classrooms.

World Literacy Foundation

Reading opens doors, both to other worlds and in real life. When someone acquires literacy skills, they’re able to access better opportunities and societal integration; they can gain better healthcare access, fill out job applications, and more. The World Literacy Foundation provides disadvantaged children with books, educational resources, and literacy support, and they use innovative tech, e-books, and digital activities to advance the learning of children in remote areas. On a community level, the WLF equips parents to support their children in their learning through mentorship programs and empowers people to advocate for literacy in their communities.

[urbanthreads]

The Evolution of Style: A Deep Dive into Men's Urban Clothing and Fashion

Introduction

The world of men's urban clothing is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape where style meets the streets, and culture shapes fashion. In this extensive exploration, we delve into the essence of men's dressing style, highlighting the best men clothing websites and the latest trends in young men's clothing, particularly focusing on urban wear for men.

The Historical Context of Men's Urban Fashion

The tapestry of men's urban fashion is rich and varied, woven with threads of cultural, musical, and socio-political influences. Its roots can be traced back to the bustling streets of New York City in the 1970s and 80s, where a revolutionary movement was brewing. This was not just a fashion trend but a powerful cultural expression that resonated across generations and continents.

The Birth of a Movement

In the 1970s, New York City was a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and artistic expressions. Amongst this vibrant chaos, the hip-hop scene emerged, not just as a genre of music but as a lifestyle that encompassed a unique way of dressing. The attire of this era was more than mere clothing; it was a form of identity, a bold statement of presence and resistance. Early hip-hop fashion was characterized by oversized silhouettes, sports apparel, leather bomber jackets, and flashy accessories, embodying the gritty and raw energy of the streets.

Art and Fashion Intertwine

Graffiti, an integral part of the hip-hop culture, played a significant role in shaping urban fashion. The bold colors, graphic lines, and rebellious nature of graffiti art found their way onto clothing, making fashion a canvas for self-expression. Brands that embraced this art form quickly became synonymous with urban wear, creating a visual language that spoke of defiance, creativity, and individuality.

Influences from Music and Dance

Music and dance were pivotal in propelling men's urban fashion forward. Breakdancing, with its athletic and acrobatic style, demanded clothing that was not only stylish but functional. Tracksuits, athletic shoes, and caps weren't just practical; they were integral to the dancer's persona. Similarly, rappers and DJs donned outfits that would amplify their presence on stage, often incorporating bright colors, bold prints, and oversized jewelry.

Socio-Political Statements

Urban fashion was never isolated from the socio-political environment. In the 80s and 90s, as hip-hop began to address social issues like racism, poverty, and police brutality, fashion became a tool for activism. Clothing with messages, symbolic colors, and designs that reflected cultural heritage became mediums to express solidarity and raise awareness. This era saw the rise of brands that specifically catered to the urban community, creating fashion that was not only trendy but also carried a deeper socio-cultural significance.

The Evolution into a Global Phenomenon

As hip-hop culture spread globally, so did its fashion. By the late 90s and early 2000s, urban wear was no longer confined to a particular group or locale. It had infiltrated mainstream fashion, with designers and high-end brands incorporating elements of street style into their collections. This fusion brought about a new era of urban fashion, one that blended the authenticity of the streets with the sophistication of high fashion.

The Contemporary Urban Style

Today, men's urban fashion is a diverse and dynamic field. It continues to be influenced by music, art, and current events, adapting and evolving with the times. Modern urban wear pays homage to its roots while continuously pushing the boundaries of style and self-expression. From the resurgence of vintage styles to the incorporation of sustainable materials, urban fashion remains a symbol of innovation, resilience, and identity.

In essence, the historical context of men's urban fashion is a story of transformation and empowerment. It's a narrative that speaks of the streets, the struggles, and the spirit of a culture that has profoundly shaped the way young men dress and express themselves today.

Defining Elements of Urban Style

Urban style, a term synonymous with individuality and cultural expression, stands out for its unique elements that have continuously evolved over the years. This expanded section delves into the specific fashion elements that constitute men's urban wear, highlighting the innovations by designers and brands that have made certain styles iconic within this genre. We'll explore the role of color, fabric, and design, each contributing to the distinctiveness of urban fashion.

The Significance of Color in Urban Wear

Color plays a pivotal role in urban fashion. It's not just a matter of aesthetics; color choices often reflect cultural, social, and personal narratives. Early urban styles were influenced heavily by vibrant hues and bold prints, mirroring the energy and dynamism of the streets. Designers have used color to make statements, with black often symbolizing strength and rebellion, while brighter tones like red, blue, and yellow represent vibrancy and vitality. The use of color blocking and the juxtaposition of unexpected colors have become trademarks of modern urban wear, allowing wearers to make bold statements through their attire.

Fabric: Blending Functionality with Style

The choice of fabric in urban fashion is a careful balance between functionality and style. Initially, durable materials like denim and leather were popular due to their longevity and ability to withstand the rigors of street life. As urban fashion evolved, there was a shift towards more versatile and comfortable materials. Cotton, especially in its heavier forms, became a staple for t-shirts and hoodies, offering both comfort and a suitable canvas for graphic prints. The introduction of athletic materials like polyester and Lycra catered to the needs of those who sought clothing that was not only stylish but also adaptable to an active lifestyle.

Design Innovations in Urban Wear

Design in urban wear is where creativity knows no bounds. Oversized garments, a hallmark of urban fashion, are not just a style choice but also a nod to the hip-hop influences where larger-than-life attire symbolized presence and power. Designers have innovated by introducing asymmetrical cuts, layering, and unconventional silhouettes that challenge traditional fashion norms.

Brands have also embraced the fusion of streetwear with luxury fashion, creating pieces that are both opulent and street-ready. This blend has led to the creation of unique items like high-end sneakers, designer graphic tees, and luxury sportswear. Collaborations between leading fashion houses and streetwear brands have further pushed the boundaries, leading to collections that are culturally relevant and fashion-forward.

Graphic Designs and Logos

Graphic designs and logos are integral to urban fashion, often serving as symbols of brand identity and cultural affiliation. From bold statement prints to subtle logo placements, these elements add character and distinction to urban wear. Street art and graffiti have been significant influences, with many designs featuring intricate artworks that tell stories or convey messages.

Accessorizing in Urban Fashion

Accessories are not mere additions in urban style; they are essential components that complete the look. Snapbacks, beanies, oversized chains, and statement watches are more than just fashion pieces; they are part of the urban identity. Footwear, particularly sneakers, holds a place of reverence in urban fashion. The rise of sneaker culture has seen collaborations between artists, celebrities, and brands, turning sneakers into coveted items of fashion and collectibles.

The Role of Cultural and Social Influences

Urban fashion is deeply intertwined with cultural and social influences. It's a reflection of the wearer's background, beliefs, and experiences. Designers and brands have recognized this, often incorporating cultural motifs and social messages into their designs. This aspect of urban fashion not only adds depth and meaning to the clothing but also connects wearers with broader cultural and social narratives.

The Digital Revolution: Men's Clothing Websites

The landscape of men’s fashion, particularly urban wear, has undergone a dramatic transformation in the digital era. The advent of online shopping has not just made fashion more accessible; it has revolutionized how men interact with fashion. This section delves into the nuances of digital marketing, online retail trends, customer behavior, and the overarching impact of social media in the realm of men’s urban clothing.

The Emergence of Online Fashion Retail

The early 2000s marked the beginning of a new era in fashion retail. E-commerce platforms began to emerge, offering a variety of clothing options that were previously limited to brick-and-mortar stores. Men’s urban clothing found a new avenue, with websites dedicated solely to this genre. These platforms offered a wider range of sizes, styles, and designs, catering to a diverse audience. The convenience of shopping from anywhere and the ability to compare products and prices quickly became appealing aspects for the modern shopper.

Digital Marketing and Its Impact

Digital marketing has played a pivotal role in shaping men's urban clothing trends. Through targeted advertising, fashion brands have been able to reach their ideal audience more effectively. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter have become crucial for brand promotion, enabling labels to showcase their latest collections, share lookbooks, and even directly engage with customers. Influencer marketing, where fashion brands collaborate with social media influencers, has emerged as a powerful tool in driving brand awareness and sales.

Online Retail Trends in Men’s Urban Clothing

The trends in online retail for men’s urban clothing have seen a shift towards a more personalized shopping experience. Websites now use data analytics to understand customer preferences and offer tailored recommendations. Limited-edition releases, exclusive online drops, and pre-order options have become common strategies to create hype and exclusivity around products. Furthermore, the rise of mobile shopping has prompted websites to optimize their platforms for mobile users, offering seamless and user-friendly experiences.

Customer Behavior in the Digital Space

Customer behavior in the context of men’s urban clothing has evolved with the digital age. Shoppers are more informed and have higher expectations. They seek authenticity, quality, and exclusivity in their purchases. Online reviews and customer feedback have become significant influencers in purchasing decisions. Consumers often rely on these reviews as a source of trusted information, impacting the popularity and sales of specific items.

Curation of Collections on Online Platforms

Men’s clothing websites carefully curate their collections to align with current trends and customer preferences. This curation is not just about selecting items; it's about creating a narrative that resonates with the target audience. Websites often collaborate with designers, artists, and influencers to curate exclusive collections. Seasonal trends, cultural events, and even political and social movements can influence these collections, making them relevant and timely.

The Role of Social Media Influencers

Social media influencers have become integral to the fashion industry, especially in urban wear. Their ability to influence public opinion and trends is undeniable. Influencers often partner with clothing brands to showcase new collections, share outfit inspirations, and offer exclusive discounts to their followers. Their endorsement can significantly boost a brand's visibility and credibility.

The Impact of Online Reviews

Online reviews have become a powerful tool in the fashion industry. Positive reviews can enhance a brand's reputation and increase sales, while negative feedback can lead to a decline in customer trust. Men's clothing websites often encourage customers to leave reviews, as these serve as valuable feedback for both the brand and potential customers.

Youth Fashion: Pioneers of Urban Trends

The world of youth fashion, particularly in the urban landscape, is a continuously evolving tapestry of style, culture, and expression. Young men, especially, are not just consumers of fashion; they are trendsetters and pioneers, significantly influencing the direction of urban style. In this expanded section, we delve deeper into what drives trends in young men's fashion, incorporating insights from interviews and quotes from young fashion influencers, designers, and stylists. We also examine the impact of global events and shifts in popular culture on these trends.

The Voice of Influencers and Designers

"Young people are looking for authenticity in their fashion choices," says Jordan Lee, a noted fashion influencer. "They want clothes that tell a story, that resonate with their personal journey and the culture they are part of." This sentiment is echoed by Mia Wang, an up-and-coming urban wear designer, who adds, "Today's youth are blending traditional elements with modern cuts. They're not afraid to mix and match, creating a style that's uniquely theirs."

Renowned stylist Elijah James comments on the practical aspects, noting, "Functionality has become as important as aesthetics. Young men want fashion that suits their active, on-the-go lifestyle but also makes a bold statement."

Influence of Global Events

Global events have a profound impact on youth fashion. The recent pandemic, for instance, has seen a surge in the popularity of comfortable yet stylish home wear, with an emphasis on versatility. "The lockdowns led to the rise of ‘Zoom fashion’, where the focus is on waist-up dressing. It's all about striking a balance between comfort and presentability," observes fashion blogger Emma Liu.

Environmental concerns are also shaping fashion choices. "There's a growing demand for sustainable fashion among the youth," says sustainable fashion advocate, Ryan Gomez. "Young people are more conscious about the environment and are seeking brands that align with their eco-friendly values."

The Role of Popular Culture

Popular culture, particularly music and movies, has always had a significant influence on youth fashion. The rise of K-pop, for instance, has introduced a whole new aesthetic into the urban fashion scene. "K-pop stars are not just music icons; they're fashion icons. Their unique sense of style has a huge fan following worldwide," states music and fashion journalist, Sophia Kim.

Social media, especially platforms like Instagram and TikTok, have become a showcase for youth fashion. Influencers and ordinary young men alike use these platforms to display their fashion choices, often setting trends in the process. "Social media has democratized fashion. Now, everyone can be a trendsetter," says digital marketing expert, Tyler Chen.

The Future of Youth Fashion

Looking ahead, youth fashion is poised to become even more diverse and inclusive. "We're moving towards a more inclusive fashion world, where there are no rigid gender norms or rules. It's all about self-expression," predicts gender-neutral fashion designer, Alex Parker.

Exploring Current Trends in Young Men's Fashion

- Athleisure Evolved: Sportswear and casual wear merge to create a comfortable yet stylish trend.

- Retro and Vintage: The resurgence of vintage styles and their reinterpretation by today's youth.

- Eco-Fashion: The growing demand for sustainable and ethically produced clothing among young consumers.

The Future of Urban Fashion

As we gaze into the horizon of men’s urban fashion, the future promises an exciting amalgamation of technological innovation, sustainability, and evolving consumer trends. This expanded section offers a deep dive into the anticipated future trends, spotlighting emerging designers, cutting-edge fashion technologies, and the shifting paradigms of consumer behavior. Additionally, we will delve into the growing significance of sustainability and ethical practices in the urban fashion sphere.

Emergence of New Designers and Aesthetics

The urban fashion landscape is continually refreshed by the influx of new designers who bring with them innovative ideas and unique aesthetics. These emerging talents are redefining the boundaries of urban style, infusing traditional elements with futuristic designs. "We are witnessing a renaissance in urban fashion, where new designers are daring to challenge the norm, blending cultural heritage with modern design," notes fashion critic Lara Edmunds. These designers are not just creating clothes; they are crafting narratives that resonate with the modern urban dweller, often drawing inspiration from global cultures, street art, and contemporary issues.

Technological Advancements in Fashion

Technology is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of men's urban fashion. Wearable technology, smart fabrics, and digital customization are areas ripe for exploration. Tech-infused clothing that can change color, regulate temperature, or even display dynamic graphics is on the horizon. "Imagine a jacket that adapts to the weather or a t-shirt that reflects your mood through dynamic designs. These are not far-off concepts anymore," states tech-fashion innovator, Raj Patel. The integration of virtual and augmented reality in fashion retail is also transforming how consumers interact with clothing, offering virtual fitting rooms and immersive shopping experiences.

Shifts in Consumer Behavior

The urban fashion consumer of the future is expected to be more informed, discerning, and value-driven. There's a growing emphasis on personal style over blind trend-following. "Future consumers will look for fashion that aligns with their personal identity and values," explains consumer behavior analyst, Mia Zhang. They are likely to favor brands that offer customization, personalization, and a strong narrative.

Sustainability and Ethical Fashion

Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity in the future of fashion. Young consumers, in particular, are increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of their clothing choices. "Sustainable practices will define the future of urban fashion. We're seeing a shift towards eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and circular fashion models," notes sustainable fashion expert, Oliver Greene.

This movement towards sustainability is driving innovation in materials, with the emergence of biodegradable fabrics, recycled textiles, and plant-based leathers. The concept of circular fashion, where clothes are designed with their end-of-life in mind, is gaining traction. This approach not only minimizes waste but also encourages practices like recycling and upcycling.

Ethical Practices in the Fashion Industry

Ethical practices in the fashion industry are becoming a significant factor in brand perception and consumer choice. Transparency in manufacturing processes, fair labor practices, and support for local communities are aspects that modern consumers are increasingly prioritizing. "Brands that are committed to ethical practices are not just doing good; they are building trust and loyalty with their customers," states fashion industry analyst, Sarah Kim.

Conclusion

As we culminate this comprehensive exploration of men’s urban clothing, it becomes evident that this style transcends the boundaries of mere fashion. Urban wear is not just about the clothes we don; it's a powerful medium of personal expression and a reflection of a lifestyle deeply ingrained in modern culture. Throughout this blog post, we have navigated the rich and multifaceted landscape of men's urban style, uncovering the layers that compose its vibrant history, distinctive elements, and progressive future.

From its historical roots in the bustling streets of New York City, echoing the beats of hip-hop and the vibrancy of street art, to its current status as a global fashion phenomenon, men's urban clothing has consistently been a mirror reflecting societal changes and cultural trends. It's a style that tells a story, one of rebellion, innovation, and resilience. The defining elements of urban fashion - bold colors, innovative designs, and statement accessories - are more than fashion choices; they are symbols of individuality and creativity.

The digital revolution has significantly transformed how urban fashion is consumed and perceived. With the rise of online shopping, men's urban wear has become more accessible and diverse than ever before. Digital platforms have not only changed the shopping experience but also revolutionized marketing strategies, creating a new paradigm in the fashion industry. This evolution is a testament to the adaptability and forward-thinking nature of urban fashion.

Youth fashion, particularly in urban wear, continues to be a driving force behind emerging trends. Young men are not mere followers of fashion; they are pioneers, constantly pushing the boundaries and setting new standards. Their choices are a reflection of their identities, beliefs, and the world they inhabit. This dynamic nature of youth fashion ensures that men's urban clothing remains fresh, relevant, and exciting.

Looking ahead, the future of men's urban clothing is bright and promising. With the advent of sustainable practices, ethical fashion, and technological innovations, urban wear is set to evolve in ways that are not only stylistically groundbreaking but also socially and environmentally responsible. The integration of personal values with fashion choices marks a new era in the urban clothing narrative.

In conclusion, men's urban clothing is much more than a trend. It's a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the essence of modern urban life. Its ability to adapt, reflect, and influence makes it a significant part of the fashion industry. As we move forward, it will continue to be a fascinating area of study and appreciation for anyone interested in the intersection of fashion, culture, and personal expression. 

[mariacallous]

Moldovans went to the polls on 20 October to elect their next president and to enshrine in the country’s constitution their desire to join the European Union. Both ballots, but in particular the constitutional referendum, attracted considerable pro-Kremlin disinformation and manipulation.

The result of the constitutional vote(opens in a new tab) – with 50.38 per cent in favour and 49.62 per cent against, a difference of just 11,400 – would suggest that Moldovans are deeply divided on the question whether their country should one day join the EU. And indeed, this is the theme the information manipulators seized to push their own narratives about Moldova and the EU.

Still, a clear majority of Moldovans has voiced support for European integration consistently over last few years and polling(opens in a new tab) ahead of the vote had shown more than 60 percent favouring the country’s EU path. The underwhelming result as well as countless reports(opens in a new tab) of Russian hybrid interference in the election suggest that with this referendum more than a usual protest vote against the government might have been at play.

A ‘creeping coup’ fails to deliver

Pro-Kremlin propaganda was in high gear ahead of the vote, seeking to sway voters. In its wake, it went into overdrive, seeking to paint the outcome as a ‘defeat’ for incumbent President Maia Sandu and her pro-EU political allies and the vote as marred by voter suppression and fraud.

The most popular narrative pushed by outlets across German, French, English, and Romanian languages was that President Sandu’s administration had engaged in pervasive electoral fraud to swing the vote its way. It had allegedly employed various nefarious schemes to suppress the will of the people and carry out what RT in German described as a ‘creeping coup d’état towards a one-party state(opens in a new tab)’. This is a version of the classic Kremlin narrative ‘the Elite vs. the People’.

Pravda in English language reported(opens in a new tab) claims by the opposition politician Alexei Lungu that masked, armed police broke into the office of the Victory bloc in Balti and searched the homes of its employees in order to intimidate them.

The leader of the Victory bloc Ilan Shor, oligarch fugitive in Moscow, meanwhile, said that the blocking of opposition Telegram channels by the authorities in Moldova ‘put an end to democracy(opens in a new tab), replacing it with a dictatorship’.

Domestic outlets in Russia asserted that the Sandu administration had banned a number of Russian-controlled outlets(opens in a new tab) to create a ‘sterile’ information environment (something Russian readers would be all too familiar with).

So why, one may ask, did the vote not go the government’s way?

Kremlin convenes its forces… three clusters

Based on data analysis during the election campaign, three distinct clusters of activity were identified within the country’s information space. The first cluster consisted of accounts that had previously engaged in disinformation and manipulation activities in Ukraine. These accounts shifted their focus toward Moldovan audiences, adapting narratives originally developed for disinformation attacks against Ukraine to fit the Moldovan context (degrading people, calling them corrupt, misfit etc.). Some of the channels within this cluster were tied to the global FIMI campaign known as Portal Kombat(opens in a new tab).

The second cluster was formed by a network of Moldovan accounts, which had behavioral links to foreign actors. These accounts functioned as proxies for the first cluster, amplifying similar narratives within Moldova’s domestic information landscape. The central themes promoted by both clusters all edged(opens in a new tab) that ‘Moldova might attack Transnistria’ if the EU referendum or President Sandu’s candidacy were approved, that ‘Moldova could be dragged into the conflict in Ukraine’, and that ‘Moldova might collaborate with Ukraine in Africa to target Russian deployments in the region’. Classic scaremongering to confuse voters.

The third cluster was made up of domestic channels that, although not directly linked to known manipulators, spread similar narratives. This highlights the blurred lines within the Moldovan media ecosystem, where foreign networks are deeply intertwined with domestic channels. This is a particular sneaky tactic as foreign actors can infiltrate mainstream media outlets.

…and the coordination efforts show flooding of the space

Furthermore, Russia-based cyber-hacktivist groups, which had previously engaged in disinformation efforts during the Spanish and Polish elections, claimed responsibility for attacks on Moldovan infrastructure during this period. A common narrative pushed by all three clusters was the allegation of election fraud(opens in a new tab), a claim that accelerated as election day drew near.

Compared to other elections monitored in the past, the level of foreign manipulative activity in Moldova was notably high. Online manipulation appears to be closely coordinated with offline actions. The tactics included fabricating false letters(opens in a new tab), documents, images, and videos(opens in a new tab), using AI-generated voices to impersonate President Sandu and creating a chatbot(opens in a new tab) offering money to promote anti-EU content.

These efforts did not rely on sophisticated techniques or large-scale campaigns. Instead of focusing on single, high-profile events, the manipulators seems to go for repeated, high-frequency actions aimed at generating a cumulative effect to flood the information space.

Commenting on results

Preliminary results on Sunday 20 October evening suggested the vote may have gone against Sandu and the pro-EU forces so pro-Kremlin outlets gleefully wrote about the President’s ‘complete failure(opens in a new tab)’. When the tide turned and a slim victory for the pro-EU side emerged, these outlets simply doubled down and stuck to their narrative of failure and disgrace.

RT [Russia Today] in German summed it up(opens in a new tab), headlining “Pro-European President disgraces herself – Citizens don’t want EU”. According to the piece, this was ‘the dirtiest election in the short history of the Republic of Moldova. Repression, bans, and Western interference have reached an unprecedented level. And yet: Pro-European President Sandu has disgraced herself with her plan to lead the country triumphantly into the EU’.

Russian, German and English language as well as Russia-aligned Moldovan outlets(opens in a new tab) all repeated allegations of widespread electoral fraud. They in particular focused on the Moldovan diaspora in Russia, which they claimed had been denied its right to vote because Moldova only opened two polling stations(opens in a new tab). This was framed as evidence of how the vote was rigged(opens in a new tab) to favour the diaspora in Western Europe and the US.

On a more serious note, EU High Representative Josep Borrell welcomed the outcome(opens in a new tab) on Tuesday: ‘The citizens of the Republic of Moldova made a historic choice to anchor their future within the European Union, despite massive interference and a hybrid campaign by Russia and its proxies to undermine the democratic vote in Moldova. This vote reflects their aspirations for a peaceful, independent, stable, democratic, and prosperous Moldova’.

Unprecedented Russian interference was highlighted also by US State Secretary Blinken who stated(opens in a new tab) that “Russia did everything in its power to disrupt the election and referendum to undermine Moldova’s democracy, including through illicit financing and vote buying, disinformation, and malicious cyber activities”.

While Russia rejected(opens in a new tab) EU accusations of interference in Moldovan elections, its fingerprints and money transfers remain all over the referendum results.

To be continued…

EUvsDisinfo has tracked the pro-Kremlin disinformation in the run-up and immediate aftermath of Sunday 20 October referendum and election. We will continue doing so as the country gears up to the second round of the presidential election on 3 November.

[audio-magic]

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[6thdimension]

What are Dimensions, which one are we in; human evolution, and its relationship with Astrology and Higher Octave 🌌🤍✨

Dimensions are separations generated by the immense differences in frequency that things and people vibrate.

Have you heard of energy and how, depending on the place and the person, as well as our thoughts and emotions, everything changes? That's how it is with Dimensions.

Dimensions do not necessarily represent physical locations, although they often symbolize a difference from the place where we are

(for example, right now we are on Earth, a planet that necessarily exists in the 3rd dimension, but despite this, some people on this 3D planet are already beginning to vibrate at a frequency of the 5th dimension and beyond).

With that said, we can understand that you are not the dimension you are in, but the frequency you vibrate.

As frequency changes, we often need to take care of it so as not to get lost and even reduce or remain in a lower dimension, which is not beneficial to us or those around us. Below is a brief understanding of what the dimensions are:

The first dimension

is the dimension of the "hardest" matter, but not in the sense of inferiority or density, because in this dimension we have important components that constitute food for life, in addition to "artifacts" of very high vibration (like crystals). In this dimension, we have minerals, rocks, and crystals. These things also coexist in the third dimension, in part, and their energetic matrix is ​​of the first dimension.

The second dimension

is the dimension of plants. Other living beings are incredibly energy amplifiers and often capable of cleansing through the process of attracting energies from other beings and environments. They are sensitive but also strong with elevated frequency and vibration. Plants also coexist with the third dimension, in part, but their energetic matrix is ​​of the 2nd dimension.

The third dimension

is the dimension of matter, where we have physical and earthly experiences. Because it is a dimension where experiences occur, it is a dimension with a frequency largely determined by the average beings who coexist there. Earth is a planet of the 3rd dimension, and its frequency changes according to the actions of its inhabitants, who are human beings, that is, us, for the most part, in addition to animals. Thus, what often determines the frequency of our beloved Mother Earth is humanity. The third dimension is characterized by vibrating much in lower patterns, because it deals with the initial learning experiences of the individual (it does not mean it's about the first incarnations, but rather initial learnings that the Being has not yet been taken by). Due to the strong characteristic of the Ego that ends up prevailing over other points that would matter more, the 3D is a dimension that ends up navigating much more in difficult patterns than in elevated ones.

The fourth dimension

is the dimension of the astral world. Think of a vast corner where there is room for everything you can imagine happening. It is where many beings who pass away live/stay, and it is a place where we see emotions, memories, records of traumas, fears, and also positive emotions and beneficial emotional experiences, where they are kept, recorded. It is where our spirit lives.

Paty, why are you saying that our spirit is there?

I'm saying this because there is a certain sense of separation between the physical body and the spirit (that's why when many project astral, it's as if they literally leave the physical and only transit in the astral world).

However, the separation only exists for some reasons that in the 3D we have a lot of difficulty in integrating the experiences of our spirit (Soul) with ease and, therefore, it could be very difficult to deal with the awareness that our Soul has with the immense tendency of low frequency that a 3D tends to have. In the end, everything is integrated, and the separation occurred because we became the "oil" and that's why the water (spirit) needed to be in a more separate dimension, waiting for our (re)connection, especially when we had cleaned the density of our oil, so that it could come into free contact with the water and unify with it, as it always has been and as it should be. Just an analogy for you to better understand.

Fifth dimension:

is the dimension of consciousness, where there is no separation but integration between what the Being is and what needs to improve. It is the dimension of the search for evolution. It is the dimension of the awareness that everything material is transitory and that eternity resides in the Soul, with its eternal free will to choose how to evolve.

It is the dimension that many beings incarnated here on Earth are already vibrating, even if they are not actually there, they already vibrate at this frequency and therefore remain many moments, they are already being contacted by beings of 5th dimensional frequencies and others higher exactly to serve as a channel for the transmission of knowledge to support others who have not yet found themselves and who are on paths of pain.

It is in this dimension that we detach ourselves from imposed patterns, limiting beliefs, we begin to see that each individual has tendencies of body, emotions and thoughts that reflect exactly his Soul and his desires and current patterns, that each person has an appearance according to their own desires and history of Soul, we value individuality and collectivity.

In this dimension, the Ego begins to be dissolved to make room for a sense that we do not need to compete, because there can be room for everyone if we release unnecessary excess and attachment, which, as we have already said, are based on things that are totally transient but when removed to the point of generating situations where people have nothing and others have much, bring deep suffering, anger, resentments, and marks that reflect for lives and lives. The fifth dimension is the dimension of consciousness expansion.

Sixth dimension:

A much deeper dimension, which is so subtle that things there occur through colors, tones, languages of Light where nothing physical is necessary to feel the manifestations of things. It is the dimension of consciousness that has full control of itself and needs nothing more than its own notion of its depth and wholeness. Some beings, even if they are in the 3D, travel to the 6D when they sleep because their consciousness already vibrates in this energy! Even if they oscillate in this vibration (since vibrating more negatively is not the person's standard, of course), if they vibrate in 6D, they can visit this dimension when they sleep.

Seventh dimension:

is the dimension of pure creativity, of the Power to Create that exists in every individual. It is the plane where the individual still lives and perceives himself as one, does not see himself separated from the other in a pejorative way but is indeed a single consciousness, individualized. However, this is the last dimension where this occurs. Because in others, the Being who reaches them will understand things from the lens that we are literally all One, living in this Unity.

Eighth dimension:

is the dimension of group consciousness. everything is done as a group. the spirit deals with group situations and seeks ascension and evolution of the Whole, its focus in this dimension is exactly this.

Ninth dimension:

It is the place where the consciousness of everything gathers, from the consciousness of planets to galaxies (Yes, all of this has consciousness. Earth, called Gaia or Mother Earth, is a living organism and has consciousness. It is so deep, wide, and vital, has its own language, and is managed by beings of high dimensions, like the ninth above it).

In this dimension, a person feels so expansive that they literally encompass everything around them. It's as if in this dimension, you are the mind of a galaxy, containing all forms of life and celestial bodies. The next dimensions, namely the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth dimensions, represent stages of Creation, let's see:

Tenth dimension:

In the 10th dimension, we find the source of Cosmic Rays (often associated with the Masters of the White Brotherhood), where new plans of creation are conceived and then sent to the next stages. Although we can maintain a sense of "self" at this level, it is different from what we are accustomed to in the third dimension. The 11th dimension holds a deep energy of Expectation, Optimism, and Hope, like the moment before creation, full of anticipation. To understand the energy that permeates this dimension, think of the moment before a sneeze or an orgasm (just an example, not implying that these events lead us to this dimension). The 11th dimension is associated with beings like Metatron and other Archangels. There are Akashic records in this system, ranging from planetary to galactic Akashic records.

Twelfth dimension:

It represents the point where all consciousness perceives itself as a part of everything that exists, without any separation. If we can access this level, we would feel completely united with the universe and the creative force behind it. This encounter profoundly transforms our perception, as once we experience this perfect unity, it's difficult to maintain the same level of separation we had before.

From all this, we can perceive that the dimensions from the 3rd to the 12th represent, ultimately, the levels of evolution we can reach and need to achieve.

Ultimately, Unity and the sense that We Are All One is the purpose, the focus, the goal, and the very means to solve all the issues we currently face in this earthly experience…

All the competitiveness, the endless and unattainable pursuit to "prove" something to others, whether through material goods, money, body, appearance, status, or through social media wanting to propagate ideas like "I'm happier than you, envy me," even though everything we do is far from what true happiness is…

The goal of EVERY Soul is to evolve and, from that, become aware that there is no superiority or inferiority, but rather unity in the pursuit of the common good. This is something quite difficult for the human mind currently living on Earth to integrate easily, but it is indeed possible, and many are beginning to understand this!

If we pause to look at this from an astrological perspective, all of this reflects the Age of Aquarius and the advent of a greater interest in Higher Octave matters, purposes beyond the individual.

The discovery of Higher Octave planets such as Neptune, Uranus, and Pluto, and their perfect resonance with our personality,

is a way for the Cosmos, the Universe, to help us begin to integrate the importance of evolving from the individual to the collective, yet continuing to evolve!

It's important to remember that discussing the Age of Aquarius does not make natives of the Aquarius sign superior to other beings of different solar signs, nor does it make them necessarily special because it's the Age of Aquarius.

Any personal distinction in the collective journey of the Aquarian Age will come from the actions and choices of the individual, not from being of a certain sign.

The Ages represent the purest qualities of the signs.

People will subvert and manifest, as we see here and there, both the good and bad characteristics of the signs. All with their free will.

Therefore, there is no superiority due to being in the Age of Aquarius, just as there was none in the Age of Pisces, Aries, or any other sign.

[harmonyhealinghub]

The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women: An Ongoing Tragedy

Shaina Tranquilino

October 4, 2023

The issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women is a devastating tragedy that has plagued Indigenous communities for decades. Despite being deeply rooted in the history of colonization, it remains an ongoing crisis that demands immediate attention. This blog post aims to shed light on this heartbreaking reality and urges society to acknowledge, address, and support initiatives aimed at ending the violence.

A Historical Context:

To truly understand the gravity of the situation, we must recognize the historical context in which this epidemic has unfolded. Since European colonization began in North America, Indigenous women have faced systemic discrimination, marginalization, and violence. These injustices persist today as a direct result of centuries-long oppression and the erosion of Indigenous cultures.

Disturbing Statistics:

The statistics surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous women are both shocking and disheartening. According to a 2016 report by the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), there were over 5,700 cases of missing or murdered Indigenous American women recorded in the United States alone. Alarmingly, many believe these numbers may be underestimated due to underreporting or misclassification by law enforcement agencies.

Root Causes:

Numerous factors contribute to this crisis. Poverty, limited access to education and healthcare services, high rates of domestic violence within communities, institutional racism, inadequate law enforcement response, and human trafficking all play significant roles in perpetuating this cycle of violence against Indigenous women.

The Need for Awareness & Advocacy:

Raising awareness about this issue is crucial towards mobilizing action to end it. It requires educating ourselves and others about the plight faced by Indigenous women who continue to disappear or be victimized every day. Social media campaigns like #MMIWG (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls) have played a pivotal role in bringing attention to their stories while demanding justice.

Government Action & Accountability:

Addressing this crisis necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Governments at all levels must take concrete steps to address the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, including improving collaboration between law enforcement agencies, enhancing victim services, and implementing culturally sensitive policies. Additionally, funding programs that empower Indigenous communities and strengthen support systems are essential for long-term change.

Community Empowerment:

Indigenous communities have been fighting tirelessly to protect their women and girls. Supporting grassroots organizations led by Indigenous people who understand the unique challenges faced by their community is crucial in eradicating this issue. By amplifying voices from within these communities, we can ensure that culturally appropriate solutions are implemented while fostering healing and resilience.

The missing and murdered Indigenous women crisis demands urgent attention from society as a whole. Recognizing the historical context, understanding the systemic issues involved, advocating for awareness, holding governments accountable, and empowering affected communities are all integral components of bringing an end to this deeply entrenched tragedy.

To honour the lives lost and prevent future victimization, it is our collective responsibility to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities and work towards creating a world where every woman feels safe, valued, and protected. Only through unity can we hope to achieve justice for the missing and murdered Indigenous women who deserve nothing less than our unwavering commitment to ending this heartbreaking reality once and for all.

[audio-luddite]

I was talking with a guy.

Hey if I am mentioning it here it was about audio.

The question was how to get started in serious audio (lets not call it audiophile yet). It is a remarkably simple and yet complex question. Spend lots of money?

So to start, the front end is the tricky bit. That is source and control. Source is what you are listening too. Control is selection of source, if you have more than one, and basic volume control. In most systems control is the preamplifier.

The back end is the speakers and power amplifier. Actually really simple. What fits in your home and how much can you afford. Easy to change if you want.

The first big issue is source. By that I mean hard copied media or virtual. The first is category is CDs and their ilk such as SACD etc, and of course Vinyl LPs. The second is streaming online.

The second one first. (interesting sentence that but perfectly correct)

Streaming is far from simple. It has the least initial cost for the media as it is just a subscription fee (forever). It has an enormous even overwhelming variety and quantity of content. It also is only permission to use the content, but you do not own it. You can have a huge "collection" but it is virtual. Also there is a controversy about payments to artists.

Often not said is that almost all the streaming services are at or below CD quality. CD quality is not considered truly great by the tribes. That is all I am going to say about that right now.

The hardware is not simple for high end streaming. In very general terms you need a DAC (Digital to Analog Converter), a box to buffer or hold the downloaded files, and a computer to do the downloads and host the streaming service software. That is three boxes. In high end they are all expensive of course.

There are devices that do all three things, but they are not cheap. They also do not have the quality of the "best" systems.

Audiophiles like dedicated computers and streaming servers and DACs of eye watering expense.

In summary the streaming front end is very expensive. In my looking about for adding that to my system it is thousands of dollars. Conservatively about $5000 for my quality goal. Emphasis on that is only the front end.

Now to my thesis.

I say the least cost path to high end sound is with vinyl. WTF?! A high end capable Turntable starts at hundreds of dollars. Much more can be spent, but in today's local classified ads there are dozens under $500 and a few very good ones up to $1000. An older model refurbished unit is perfectly fine for the job. And I mean high end sound extraction. Brands such as Technics, Rega, Thorens, Micro Seki, Kenwood, Pioneer are good candidates.

A high end phonograph pickup or cartridge can be had for under $500 bucks. I have three all around $400 ish or less. I like Grado, and Audio Technica. There are more, but I don't have any of those. Moving coils need not apply. Those are euphonic, which is they add seductive sounds that are not in the source material.

That is the whole vinyl source hardware list. Under $1400 bucks or less and you are up and running. The only caveat is your control preamp needs to have a phono input which most old ones do.

In my case have a high end hybrid tube FET preamp that can be had for $2000 or less depending on the phase of the moon. You need that anyway. My opinion is the preamp is the major contributor to the overall performance of your system.

So that brings the full front end to less than $3400 for a high end system. If you take into account all my extra phono cartridges I still spent less than that. Just.

There is an intriguing option in a high end integrated amplifier from Technics (SU-G700) that is a preamp and DAC and very good class D amplifier with a phono input for about $2400 USD. Just add speakers and turntable and you are over the threshold to high end. It is rather spooky. If I had to start from scratch I would be tempted. Far less than an ARC suite. I could no longer claim I was a Luddite though.

Yes with vinyl you still have to buy LPs, unless you are an old fart like me and have hundreds, but it is actually rather fun. Compared to the initial cost of a high end streaming system the cost of an extensive LP library looks reasonable. I search for high quality boutique stuff usually, but I also find stuff in the racks. Garage sales anyone?

I have high end sound in my home. I dare say it is the best sounding system I have every heard. Vinyl is not a compromise. There is a lot to be said for getting up to flip a record every 20 minutes. Hell I have a watch that nags me to get up and move if I stay seated for more than an hour. (yes I am a geek) It's good for you Mr couch potato.

Obviously to play at this game money will be spent. You can start off modestly and build over time (decades in my case) or jump in. In the end you will have a sonic place to spend time appreciating art at the highest level.

Interesting that I really cannot afford to add high end streaming to my system. I don't need to.

[isabellas-painting1-fall-2024]

High VS Low Tonal Contrast

Charline Von Heyl, Mad and Mooney, Lithograph and etching, 2023

This lithograph has high tonal contast as it utilizes only black and white. This contrast creates bold, geometric shapes which interact to create a more complex image. Each shape is clearly and unambiguously defined which makes the artwork as a whole feel well planned and intentional. Additionally, the contrast in tone within this artwork creates a strong sense of movement because the black and white seem almost to vibrate against each other, due to their difference in tone. This movement creates a very energetic, bold piece. It is almost as if the strong contrast endows this artwork with a feeling of confidence as any imperfection would be amplified by the use of only black and white.

Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, The Myriad Motives of Men, oil on canvas, 2014

This painting is an example of low contrast because the colors used are similar in tone. The only area of the painting that is slightly higher contrast appears in the white shirt and shoes of the back figure. However, even the whites of the painting are grayed out and deepened slightly which integrates it harmoniously into the color palette of this painting. The low contrast contributes to a sense of unity because each form seems to blend into each other. This is most apparent when observing the bench the figures are sitting on in comparison to the background. Since the tones used for both these areas are so similar, there is no clear distinction between where the bench ends and the background begins. This is also apparent when observing the figures' faces and arms. These elements are tonally similar to the background, making it seem as though the figures are receding into the space around them. The low tonal contrast therefore contributes to a mysterious mood throughout the painting as the low contrast causes forms to blur into each other.