#how to convert simple speaker into amplifier

[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.

[ovaga-technologies]

Understanding the SABRE9018Q2C DAC

Introduction

If you're on a journey to elevate your audio experience, understanding the SABRE9018Q2C DAC can be a game-changer. This compact yet powerful DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) is known for delivering rich, immersive sound, making even the smallest audio details come alive. Whether you're an audiophile or someone who just loves high-quality sound, the SABRE9018Q2C is an impressive addition to any setup.

What is the SABRE9018Q2C DAC?

The SABRE9018Q2C DAC is a sophisticated audio chip that converts digital signals into analog sound, making music feel more lifelike and engaging. Developed by ESS Technology, it’s celebrated for producing exceptionally low noise and high fidelity.

Why High-Quality DACs Matter in Audio Systems

You might wonder, why do DACs matter so much? Imagine watching a movie through a dirty lens—small details get blurred. A DAC acts as a “clear lens” for audio, ensuring that each sound is heard in its true form. With a quality DAC like the SABRE9018Q2C, your music sounds crisp, clear, and vibrant.

Standout Features of the SABRE9018Q2C

Integrated Headphone Amplifier: Drives headphones directly, simplifying setups.

Low Power Consumption: Ideal for portable audio devices.

HyperStream II Modulator: Reduces distortion for smoother sound.

32-Bit Processing: Handles high-resolution audio with impressive detail.

How the SABRE9018Q2C Works

This DAC uses advanced processing technology to ensure high-quality audio output. The HyperStream II Modulator minimizes errors, providing clean, accurate sound. This means that every note, vocal, or sound effect is delivered with clarity, free of digital artifacts that can disrupt the listening experience.

Integrating the SABRE9018Q2C into Your System

Whether you’re upgrading your home audio setup or enhancing a portable device, integrating the SABRE9018Q2C is straightforward. With its built-in amplifier, it connects directly to headphones or speakers, offering high-quality sound with minimal components.

The SABRE9018Q2C’s Role in Portable Audio Devices

The SABRE9018Q2C is a favorite in portable audio due to its low power consumption. For music lovers on the go, this DAC offers a unique blend of sound quality and efficiency, ensuring that your device’s battery lasts longer without compromising audio.

Unpacking the Technical Specs

Dynamic Range: Up to 121 dB for a wide range between the quietest and loudest sounds.

Total Harmonic Distortion: Extremely low, ensuring pure sound.

Sampling Rates: Supports up to 384kHz, accommodating high-resolution audio formats.

Audio Quality: What to Expect

Expect nothing short of exceptional audio quality with the SABRE9018Q2C. Its precision processing ensures that even subtle nuances are noticeable, making it a delight for critical listeners and casual music lovers alike. It’s like hearing your favorite songs with new ears.

Applications of the SABRE9018Q2C

From high-end headphones to portable media players, the SABRE9018Q2C shines in various applications. Its ability to handle high-resolution audio makes it popular in devices where sound quality is a top priority.

SABRE9018Q2C vs. Other DACs

How does the SABRE9018Q2C compare with other DACs? Many competitors struggle to match its balance of power efficiency and sound quality. While some DACs are louder or more detailed, the SABRE9018Q2C provides a rounded experience that’s easy on battery life and pleasant to listen to.

Setting Up and Optimizing the DAC

Choose Quality Audio Files: The DAC is most effective with high-quality files (like FLAC or WAV).

Adjust Output Settings: Ensure volume levels are set optimally for your headphones or speakers.

Use a Stable Power Source: Minimizes fluctuations for consistent audio quality.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter connectivity or sound issues, check cables, ensure software is updated, and reboot your device. These simple steps usually resolve minor hiccups with the DAC.

Future of DAC Technology

As digital sound continues to evolve, so do DACs. The SABRE9018Q2C remains at the forefront of audio innovation, paving the way for even more lifelike sound in the next generation of audio devices.

Conclusion

With the SABRE9018Q2C DAC, you’re not just listening to sound; you’re experiencing it. It’s a remarkable addition for anyone who values high-quality audio, whether at home or on the move. The SABRE9018Q2C transforms digital sound into a rich, authentic listening experience that truly stands out.

[charlesmwa]

How Much Maintenance Does Car Audio Equipment Really Need?

As a college student constantly on the move, I can attest to the joy of driving with an outstanding sound system blasting my favorite tunes. However, once you've invested in a quality car audio system, you might find yourself wondering: how much maintenance does this equipment actually require? Like any other aspect of car ownership, car audio equipment needs a bit of care and attention to ensure it performs at its best. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential maintenance practices, common issues, and tips for keeping your car audio system in prime condition.

Understanding Your Car Audio System

Before diving into maintenance, let’s briefly understand the components of a car audio system. A typical setup includes:

Head Unit: The control center of your audio system, which can include radio, Bluetooth, and sometimes even a touchscreen interface.

Speakers: These convert electrical signals into sound. They can be component speakers (separate woofers and tweeters) or coaxial (combined).

Amplifiers: Used to boost the sound output and provide power to your speakers, ensuring better sound quality.

Subwoofers: These are specialized speakers designed to handle low-frequency sounds, adding depth to your music.

Each of these components requires different types of care to maintain optimal performance.

Regular Cleaning: A Simple Yet Effective Maintenance Step

One of the simplest ways to maintain your car audio equipment is through regular cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate on and inside your audio components, potentially affecting performance. Here are some cleaning tips:

Head Unit: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the face of your head unit. Avoid using any liquids or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the screen or controls. For dirt in the crevices, a can of compressed air can be helpful.

Speakers: Gently dust your speakers with a soft brush or cloth. If you have fabric speaker grills, consider using a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove trapped dirt and dust.

Subwoofers: Make sure the subwoofer is free from dust and dirt. If it's exposed, clean it gently, being careful not to damage the cone.

Regular cleaning should be part of your routine, especially if you often eat or drink in your car, as crumbs and spills can lead to more significant issues.

Check Connections and Wiring

Wiring issues are among the most common problems in car audio systems. Loose or corroded connections can lead to sound quality issues, distortion, or even system failure. Here’s how to check your wiring:

Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect all visible wiring and connections. Look for signs of wear, fraying, or corrosion, particularly at the battery and amplifier connections. If you notice any damage, it’s crucial to address it immediately to prevent further complications.

Reconnect Loose Wires: If you notice any loose connections, simply reconnect them. Make sure to secure any exposed wiring to avoid shorts or interference.

Monitor Sound Quality

One of the best indicators of your audio system’s health is sound quality. If you notice any changes in sound—such as distortion, rattling, or an imbalance between speakers—it may be time for maintenance. Here are a few things to consider:

Distortion: If your audio starts to sound distorted at higher volumes, it could indicate that your amplifier is overloading. This can happen if the amplifier is not matched correctly with your speakers.

Rattling Sounds: Rattling can indicate that a speaker has become loose or that something is obstructing it. Open up the speaker covers and ensure everything is secure.

Volume Imbalance: If one side of your audio system seems quieter than the other, check for wiring issues or speaker damage.

Environmental Considerations

Your environment can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your car audio equipment. Factors like humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to sunlight can affect different components:

Humidity and Heat: High humidity can lead to corrosion of electrical connections. If you live in a humid area, consider using a dehumidifier in your car when parked for extended periods. Extreme heat can also damage electronic components. If your car sits in the sun often, consider using a sunshade or tinting your windows to protect the interior.

Temperature Fluctuations: Rapid changes in temperature can affect the materials used in your audio equipment, especially the rubber surrounds on speakers and subwoofers.

Professional Check-Ups

While regular cleaning and visual inspections are essential, scheduling a professional check-up can help catch any potential issues before they become significant problems. Many car audio professionals offer services that include:

Thorough Inspections: Experts can check all wiring, connections, and components, identifying problems that may not be immediately obvious to you.

Sound Quality Assessment: Professionals can help calibrate your audio system, optimizing it for the best sound quality based on your preferences and vehicle acoustics.

Upgrades and Recommendations: If you’re considering upgrades, professionals can provide tailored advice on which components will work best together for your specific needs.

The Cost of Neglect

Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the line. For instance, failing to address a small wiring issue might lead to an amplifier failure, which can be significantly more expensive to replace than fixing the initial problem. Additionally, poor sound quality can diminish your driving experience, making your time on the road less enjoyable.

Maintaining your car audio equipment doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With perfect purchase from professional audio shops like VIP PRO AUDIO & regular cleaning, careful monitoring, and occasional professional check-ups, you can ensure that your sound system performs at its best. Treat your car audio system with the care it deserves, and it will reward you with a fantastic listening experience for years to come. So, keep the music playing and enjoy the ride!

[aaryan-mwa-blogs]

How Different Audio Drivers Affect Your Listening Experience

When it comes to audio equipment, the term "driver" often comes up, but what does it actually mean? In simple terms, a driver is a component of a speaker or headphone that converts electrical signals into sound waves. Understanding how different types of drivers work can significantly enhance your listening experience, whether you're a casual music lover or a professional audio engineer. This blog will delve into the science of sound and explore how various drivers impact the quality of audio you hear.

What Are Audio Drivers?

Audio drivers can be found in various audio devices, including speakers, headphones, and earphones. Each driver type has its unique design and characteristics, leading to differences in sound quality, frequency response, and overall listening experience. Here’s a closer look at the most common types of audio drivers:

1. Dynamic Drivers

Dynamic drivers are the most commonly used type in headphones and speakers. They consist of a diaphragm, voice coil, and magnet. When an electrical current passes through the voice coil, it creates a magnetic field that moves the diaphragm back and forth, generating sound waves.

Pros: Dynamic drivers are known for their excellent bass response and ability to produce loud sound levels without distortion. They are versatile and can reproduce a wide range of frequencies, making them suitable for various music genres.

Cons: While they excel in bass response, dynamic drivers may sometimes lack the detail in higher frequencies compared to other driver types.

2. Balanced Armature Drivers

Balanced armature drivers are commonly found in high-end earphones and hearing aids. Instead of using a diaphragm, these drivers utilize an armature, which is a small metal rod that pivots on a fulcrum. The movement of the armature produces sound waves.

Pros: These drivers are known for their excellent clarity and detail, particularly in the mid and high frequencies. They are also compact, allowing for smaller earbud designs.

Cons: Balanced armature drivers may not provide the same level of bass response as dynamic drivers. Many high-end earphones use multiple balanced armature drivers to cover different frequency ranges, which can increase their complexity and cost.

3. Planar Magnetic Drivers

Planar magnetic drivers are a type of headphone driver that uses a thin diaphragm placed between two magnetic plates. When an electrical signal is applied, the diaphragm moves, producing sound waves.

Pros: Planar magnetic drivers are renowned for their clarity, precision, and ability to reproduce a flat frequency response. They deliver a more natural and lifelike sound, making them popular among audiophiles.

Cons: These drivers can be bulkier and heavier than dynamic and balanced armature drivers, making them less portable. They also tend to be more expensive.

4. Electrostatic Drivers

Electrostatic drivers are a niche type of driver that uses electrostatic charges to produce sound. They consist of a thin diaphragm suspended between two electrically charged plates. When an audio signal is applied, the diaphragm moves, creating sound waves.

Pros: Electrostatic drivers offer unparalleled clarity and detail, especially in the high-frequency range. They are known for their precise sound reproduction and have a loyal following among audiophiles.

Cons: They require specialized amplifiers to operate, making them less convenient for everyday use. Additionally, electrostatic headphones are often quite expensive and not as durable as other types.

How Drivers Affect Your Listening Experience

Now that we’ve covered the different types of drivers, let’s explore how they affect your listening experience:

1. Frequency Response

The frequency response of a driver refers to the range of frequencies it can reproduce. Dynamic drivers tend to excel in bass frequencies, making them ideal for genres like electronic and hip-hop. In contrast, balanced armature drivers shine in the mid and high frequencies, providing clear vocals and intricate details. Planar magnetic and electrostatic drivers can deliver a balanced sound across the entire frequency spectrum, making them suitable for critical listening.

2. Soundstage and Imaging

Soundstage refers to the perceived space around the audio, while imaging refers to how accurately the audio is positioned within that space. Planar magnetic and electrostatic drivers typically excel in creating a wide soundstage and precise imaging, allowing listeners to perceive the location of instruments and vocals more distinctly. Dynamic drivers can also create an impressive soundstage but may not achieve the same level of precision as planar magnetic drivers.

3. Distortion and Clarity

Clarity is crucial for an enjoyable listening experience. High-quality drivers, such as balanced armature and planar magnetic drivers, tend to produce less distortion at higher volumes, providing a cleaner sound. Dynamic drivers can sometimes distort at high volumes, particularly in the lower frequencies, but many modern designs have mitigated this issue with improved engineering.

4. Comfort and Fit

When it comes to headphones, the design of the drivers can impact comfort. Balanced armature drivers allow for smaller and lighter earbud designs, making them comfortable for extended wear. Dynamic drivers are often used in over-ear designs, providing cushioning that can also enhance comfort during long listening sessions.

Choosing the Right Driver for You

When selecting audio equipment, consider your listening preferences, the genres you enjoy, and how you plan to use your gear. If you're an avid bass lover, dynamic drivers may be your best bet. On the other hand, if you value clarity and detail, balanced armature or planar magnetic drivers might suit you better.

Understanding the science of sound and how different drivers affect your listening experience can significantly enhance your enjoyment of music. Whether you're a casual listener or a professional DJ, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of various driver types can help you make informed decisions when purchasing audio equipment.As you explore the world of sound, remember that reputable audio equipment shops like VIP PRO AUDIO  can offer a wide range of options tailored to your specific needs. With the right drivers and equipment, you can elevate your listening experience and truly appreciate the richness and complexity of sound. Happy listening!

[stereostore467]

Stereo Stores

Stereo Stores: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Sound Introduction In an age where digital music is ubiquitous, the allure of a quality stereo system remains timeless. Whether you're a casual listener who enjoys background tunes or an audiophile who craves the perfect sound, a well-curated stereo system can transform your music experience. Stereo stores offer an extensive array of products tailored to various preferences, budgets, and technical requirements. However, with the increasing dominance of online shopping, many might wonder why one should visit a physical stereo store. This article explores the benefits of stereo stores, the unique experiences they offer, and why they are still the best choice for anyone serious about their audio setup.

The Unique Appeal of Stereo Stores Stereo stores have a distinctive appeal that sets them apart from general electronics retailers and online marketplaces. They specialize in audio equipment, from speakers and amplifiers to turntables and headphones, providing an in-depth selection that you won't find elsewhere. This specialization means that these stores are often staffed by knowledgeable enthusiasts who are passionate about audio, ready to offer expert advice tailored to your needs.

One of the primary benefits of visiting a stereo store is the ability to experience products firsthand. Listening to a speaker in person allows you to assess the sound quality in a way that no online review can replicate. Many stereo stores have dedicated listening rooms, acoustically optimized spaces where you can compare different models side by side. This experience is invaluable, as sound quality can be highly subjective; what sounds great to one person might not appeal to another.

Personalized Service and Expertise When it comes to purchasing high-quality audio equipment, personalized service is crucial. Stereo stores excel in offering personalized consultations, which can significantly enhance your buying experience. Unlike generic electronics stores, stereo specialists are equipped with the technical know-how to answer detailed questions about compatibility, acoustics, and performance. They can guide you through the process of selecting components that work harmoniously together, whether you're building a simple home setup or a complex audiophile system.

Moreover, stereo store staff are often well-versed in the latest industry trends and technological advancements. They can provide insights into the nuances of various brands, helping you make an informed decision. For instance, if you're interested in high-fidelity audio, they can explain the benefits of different DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) or suggest amplifiers that match the power requirements of your speakers. This level of expertise is hard to come by in general electronics stores and almost impossible to find online.

Product Variety and In-Store Demos Another significant advantage of stereo stores is the variety of products available. From vintage vinyl setups to the latest in digital streaming technology, these stores cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. You can find everything from entry-level components to high-end gear that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. This variety allows you to explore different options, test out various brands, and discover what best suits your listening preferences.

In-store demos are a standout feature of stereo stores. The opportunity to test equipment in a real-world setting is an experience that cannot be replicated online. Many stores offer dedicated listening sessions where you can bring your own music or choose from a curated selection. This hands-on approach not only helps you understand the performance of the equipment but also provides a tactile experience — the feel of turning a knob, the response of a button — that can be surprisingly important in making your final choice.

The Value of Supporting Local Businesses Shopping at stereo stores also supports local businesses, which is an added bonus. These stores are often family-owned or operated by small business owners who are passionate about audio. By choosing to shop locally, you contribute to the local economy, help maintain diversity in the retail landscape, and keep the community vibrant. Moreover, local stores are more likely to provide personalized post-purchase support, such as installation services or troubleshooting assistance, which can be a huge advantage over faceless online transactions.

Challenges and Considerations While stereo stores offer numerous benefits, there are also some challenges to consider. For instance, prices at stereo stores can sometimes be higher than those found online due to the overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical storefront. However, the added value of expert advice, in-store demos, and after-sales support often justifies the price difference. Another consideration is the limited availability of some high-end or niche products that may not be stocked in smaller stores. However, many stereo stores have strong relationships with suppliers and can often order products specifically for you, offering a level of customization that online marketplaces may not provide.

The Future of Stereo Stores Despite the convenience of online shopping, the future of stereo stores looks promising, thanks to their ability to offer unique, immersive experiences that online retailers cannot match. The trend of "experiential retail" is gaining traction, with stores becoming more like interactive showrooms than traditional retail spaces. Some stereo stores are embracing this trend by hosting events such as product launch parties, listening sessions, or meet-and-greets with audio industry professionals. These events not only draw in enthusiasts but also build a sense of community among local audio fans. Additionally, stereo stores are increasingly integrating online and in-store shopping experiences. Many now offer online product reservations, virtual consultations, or curbside pickup options, allowing customers to enjoy the best of both worlds — the convenience of online shopping combined with the benefits of in-person service.

Conclusion Stereo stores offer a unique blend of expertise, personalized service, and immersive experiences that make them an invaluable resource for anyone serious about their audio journey. From listening rooms and expert advice to the tactile experience of testing equipment in person, these stores provide a level of service that online shopping simply cannot match. By supporting stereo stores, you not only gain access to high-quality products and expert knowledge but also contribute to the vitality of your local community. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, stereo stores stand out as a beacon for those who value quality, service, and the joy of discovering the perfect sound. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just beginning your journey into the world of high-fidelity audio, stereo stores are a destination worth exploring.

#stereo #hifi #audio #music #audiophile #hifiaudio #vinyl #speakers #stereophile #homeaudio #highendaudio #jacksonville #florida #duval #jax #jacksonvilleflorida #orlando #igersjax #miami #tampa #happyhour #jaxbeach

[stereonear011]

Stereo Stores Near Me

Stereo Stores: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Sound

Introduction

In an age where digital music is ubiquitous, the allure of a quality stereo system remains timeless. Whether you're a casual listener who enjoys background tunes or an audiophile who craves the perfect sound, a well-curated stereo system can transform your music experience. Stereo stores offer an extensive array of products tailored to various preferences, budgets, and technical requirements. However, with the increasing dominance of online shopping, many might wonder why one should visit a physical stereo store. This article explores the benefits of stereo stores, the unique experiences they offer, and why they are still the best choice for anyone serious about their audio setup.

The Unique Appeal of Stereo Stores

Stereo stores have a distinctive appeal that sets them apart from general electronics retailers and online marketplaces. They specialize in audio equipment, from speakers and amplifiers to turntables and headphones, providing an in-depth selection that you won't find elsewhere. This specialization means that these stores are often staffed by knowledgeable enthusiasts who are passionate about audio, ready to offer expert advice tailored to your needs.

One of the primary benefits of visiting a stereo store is the ability to experience products firsthand. Listening to a speaker in person allows you to assess the sound quality in a way that no online review can replicate. Many stereo stores have dedicated listening rooms, acoustically optimized spaces where you can compare different models side by side. This experience is invaluable, as sound quality can be highly subjective; what sounds great to one person might not appeal to another.

Personalized Service and Expertise

When it comes to purchasing high-quality audio equipment, personalized service is crucial. Stereo stores excel in offering personalized consultations, which can significantly enhance your buying experience. Unlike generic electronics stores, stereo specialists are equipped with the technical know-how to answer detailed questions about compatibility, acoustics, and performance. They can guide you through the process of selecting components that work harmoniously together, whether you're building a simple home setup or a complex audiophile system.

Moreover, stereo store staff are often well-versed in the latest industry trends and technological advancements. They can provide insights into the nuances of various brands, helping you make an informed decision. For instance, if you're interested in high-fidelity audio, they can explain the benefits of different DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) or suggest amplifiers that match the power requirements of your speakers. This level of expertise is hard to come by in general electronics stores and almost impossible to find online.

Product Variety and In-Store Demos

Another significant advantage of stereo stores is the variety of products available. From vintage vinyl setups to the latest in digital streaming technology, these stores cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. You can find everything from entry-level components to high-end gear that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. This variety allows you to explore different options, test out various brands, and discover what best suits your listening preferences.

In-store demos are a standout feature of stereo stores. The opportunity to test equipment in a real-world setting is an experience that cannot be replicated online. Many stores offer dedicated listening sessions where you can bring your own music or choose from a curated selection. This hands-on approach not only helps you understand the performance of the equipment but also provides a tactile experience — the feel of turning a knob, the response of a button — that can be surprisingly important in making your final choice.

The Value of Supporting Local Businesses

Shopping at stereo stores also supports local businesses, which is an added bonus. These stores are often family-owned or operated by small business owners who are passionate about audio. By choosing to shop locally, you contribute to the local economy, help maintain diversity in the retail landscape, and keep the community vibrant. Moreover, local stores are more likely to provide personalized post-purchase support, such as installation services or troubleshooting assistance, which can be a huge advantage over faceless online transactions.

Challenges and Considerations

While stereo stores offer numerous benefits, there are also some challenges to consider. For instance, prices at stereo stores can sometimes be higher than those found online due to the overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical storefront. However, the added value of expert advice, in-store demos, and after-sales support often justifies the price difference.

Another consideration is the limited availability of some high-end or niche products that may not be stocked in smaller stores. However, many stereo stores have strong relationships with suppliers and can often order products specifically for you, offering a level of customization that online marketplaces may not provide.

The Future of Stereo Stores

Despite the convenience of online shopping, the future of stereo stores looks promising, thanks to their ability to offer unique, immersive experiences that online retailers cannot match. The trend of "experiential retail" is gaining traction, with stores becoming more like interactive showrooms than traditional retail spaces. Some stereo stores are embracing this trend by hosting events such as product launch parties, listening sessions, or meet-and-greets with audio industry professionals. These events not only draw in enthusiasts but also build a sense of community among local audio fans.

Additionally, stereo stores are increasingly integrating online and in-store shopping experiences. Many now offer online product reservations, virtual consultations, or curbside pickup options, allowing customers to enjoy the best of both worlds — the convenience of online shopping combined with the benefits of in-person service.

Conclusion

Stereo stores offer a unique blend of expertise, personalized service, and immersive experiences that make them an invaluable resource for anyone serious about their audio journey. From listening rooms and expert advice to the tactile experience of testing equipment in person, these stores provide a level of service that online shopping simply cannot match. By supporting stereo stores, you not only gain access to high-quality products and expert knowledge but also contribute to the vitality of your local community. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, stereo stores stand out as a beacon for those who value quality, service, and the joy of discovering the perfect sound. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just beginning your journey into the world of high-fidelity audio, stereo stores are a destination worth exploring.

[hearingcarecenterbd]

The Science of Sound: Understanding How Hearing Aids Work

Welcome to Hearing Care Center, where we're dedicated to helping you understand the intricate science behind hearing aids. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating world of sound and explore how hearing aids utilize advanced technology to enhance your auditory experience. By gaining a deeper understanding of how hearing aids work, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your auditory health and choose the right devices to meet your needs.

The Anatomy of Hearing

The Ear: Before diving into how hearing aids work, it's essential to understand the basics of how we hear. Sound waves travel through the air and enter the ear canal, causing the eardrum to vibrate.

The Cochlea: These vibrations are then transmitted through the middle ear to the cochlea, a spiral-shaped organ filled with fluid and tiny hair cells. These hair cells convert the vibrations into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the auditory nerve.

How Hearing Aids Function

Microphones: Hearing aids contain microphones that pick up sound from the environment. These microphones are designed to capture sounds from different directions and distances, allowing wearers to hear conversations, music, and other sounds more clearly.

Amplification: Once sound is captured by the microphones, it is processed and amplified by the hearing aid's circuitry. This amplification is customized based on the wearer's unique hearing profile, compensating for any areas of hearing loss and ensuring that sounds are audible and comfortable.

Signal Processing: Modern hearing aids utilize sophisticated signal processing algorithms to enhance speech clarity and reduce background noise. These algorithms analyze incoming sounds in real-time and make adjustments to optimize speech understanding, even in challenging listening environments.

Receiver and Speaker: The amplified signals are then transmitted to a receiver or speaker located inside the ear canal. This speaker delivers the amplified sound directly to the eardrum, bypassing any areas of hearing loss and ensuring that sounds are perceived as clear and natural.

Types of Hearing Aid Technology

Analog Hearing Aids: Analog hearing aids amplify all sounds equally and are relatively simple in design. While they can be effective for some individuals, they lack the advanced features and customization options found in digital hearing aids.

Digital Hearing Aids: Digital hearing aids are the most common type of hearing aid on the market today. They offer superior sound quality, customization, and flexibility compared to analog devices. Digital hearing aids can be programmed to meet the specific needs and preferences of the wearer, making them highly versatile and effective in various listening environments.

The Future of Hearing Aid Technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI): The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into hearing aids is poised to revolutionize the industry. AI-powered hearing aids can analyze and adapt to the wearer's listening environment in real-time, making automatic adjustments to optimize speech understanding and reduce background noise.

Wireless Connectivity: Many modern hearing aids come equipped with wireless connectivity features, allowing wearers to stream audio directly from smartphones, TVs, and other devices. This technology enhances convenience and accessibility, enabling wearers to enjoy clear, high-quality sound without the need for additional accessories.

Experience the Benefits Today

Understanding the science behind hearing aids is the first step towards unlocking the benefits of improved hearing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our hearing care experts. We'll help you explore the latest advancements in hearing aid technology and find the perfect solution to meet your unique needs and preferences. With our expertise and commitment to innovation, we'll empower you to hear better and live life to the fullest. Don't let hearing loss hold you back – discover the transformative power of hearing aids today.

[semconindia72]

What to Know When Choosing Sound Systems

Sound systems are important when planning a concert. These can provide high quality sound your audience can enjoy. Find out how you can choose the right one for your event. museum tour guide system

Choosing the right sound systems is important for concerts and other types of live events. These sets of electronic sound amplification consist of microphones, signal processors, loudspeakers, and amplifiers. Sound systems may increase the loudness of live or pre-recorded audios throughout large audiences. Complex sound systems may include hundreds of microphones, complicated mixers and signal processors, multiple speakers, and thousands of watts of amplification. Read on to know how you can choose the right sound system for your event:

Mixers

Mixers serve as the command centre of the entire system. The sound quality your audience hears depends on the quality of the mixer you choose. Mixers come in different types: analogue, digital, and power. Analogue mixers can be a great option if you have a simple rock band set up consisting of two guitars, keyboard, bass, and drums. As such, consider the quality of internal and external components, design, and long-term reliability when choosing a mixer. Make sure the equipment allows you to edit audio and add special effects. Check if you can control function through different equipment. For example, some mixers may allow you to set output levels on monitors and headphones. factory tour guide systems

Microphones

Microphones' main purpose is to reinforce stage vocals. Several types are available for different uses. Dynamic microphones, for example, are ideal for live events. These are usually more rugged than condenser microphones, which filmmakers often use for high quality recordings. As such, determine where you plan to use the microphone-create a list that can specify its functions. Understand the different types of microphones, as they may have different sound quality from each other. Choose unidirectional microphones if you need to pick up clear sounds from a vocalist or an instrument within close range.

Amplifiers

These devices increase the signal's power through an external energy source. Amplifiers use electricity, capacitors, and transistors to produce low-level signals for loudspeakers. These may have different types, based on application, frequency range, and instruments or devices used. As such, choose an amplifier that can provide power twice as much as your loudspeakers' power rating. Make sure the amplifier can support the sound quality produced from the instruments or other devices you will use. audio speaker manufacturer in india

Speakers

Speakers convert electrical audio signal input to sound so audience can enjoy high quality audio throughout the venue. These drivers may come in different types and sizes, depending on the music and venue. Sub-bass speakers, for example, produce low frequencies to enhance sub-bass tones. High-frequency horns, on the other hand, produce mid-range to high-frequency sounds directed over the audience's head level.

As such, consider your venue when choosing loudspeakers. Get large loudspeakers if you will be covering a wide space for the concert. Determine the number of speakers you need. Listen to different pairs of speakers before deciding. Make sure these produce clear and high-quality sound. The loudspeaker must produce every tone from different audio sources.

View More: Racks Distributor in india

[my-dream-lab]

How to make a Amplifier speaker

How to convert simple Speaker into Amplifier

In this video, we will learn how to convert a simple audio speaker into an Amplifier. It a very simple to make any speaker into an amplifier. No need to buy a new Audio Amplifier Speaker when it stops working.

How to make a USB amplifier speaker. How to make an Amplifier speaker at home. how to make an audio amplifier speaker. Make a mini USB speaker. how to convert simple speaker into amplifier mini amplifier speaker.

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[andmaybegayer]

@thehylianbatman asked:

Is optical audio actually any better than standard?

short answer: Optical audio will almost always be better than connecting to a speaker system with an aux cable. The hierarchy is roughly aux cord < optical audio < HDMI Audio.

Medium answer: just watch this technology connections video.

Long answer: let’s talk about audio amplifiers, encodings, and digital vs analog.

Let’s talk a simple use case. You have a DVD player, and a speaker system, and you want to connect them to each other.

The most obvious way to do this is an aux cord, a 3.5mm male/male cord. These transmit an analog audio signal to whatever’s plugged in on the far side. In fact, they transmit TWO analog audio signals: left and right, for stereo audio.

This signal is produced by a Digital Analog Converter, a kind of circuit that can take in a binary value and produce an analog voltage proportional to that value. If you have say, a four-bit DAC, you can create 16 different voltages. DAC’s are a deep and complicated topic and there are like a hundred different ways to build DAC’s each with their own pros and cons, so let’s just say that DAC’s can have varying quality in how accurately they reproduce what you give them. The more bits  a DAC has, the closer the signal it produces will be to a smooth analog signal, and a higher quality DAC will be more accurate when reproducing a voltage.

(note: If I write a number like this: 101₂, 431₈, 5A7₁₆, that subscript is indicating which base it is in. ₂ is binary, ₁₀ is decimal, ₁₆ is hexadecimal, etc.)

For example, let’s say we give four-bit DAC the signal 0101₂, which is 5₁₀. A four-bit DAC can produce 16 different levels, 0 through 15, so 5/15 is going to be ⅓ of the maximum voltage. If you has a 6V maximum output, an ideal DAC would produce a 2V signal in response. A good quality DAC will do this with minimal wobble, no overshoot, and without much noise. A poor-quality DAC might have a small voltage offset, wobble all over, hiss with noise, etc. No DAC will be perfect, but you can be better or worse. In the below image, the orange line is the ideal signal that the DAC is trying to produce, and the blue line is the output of the DAC trying to get as close as it can using only a few voltages. In practice there are ways to improve this a little, but that’s the idea.

The digital data stream is fed through the DAC, which imparts some badness. Then this signal has to be amplified, usually to a few tens of milliwatts. This is enough power to drive small headphones, but if you plug it in to a big speaker system, it’s just not enough. Cheap laptop speakers are usually around 10W. Bigger speaker systems run upwards of 100W. Notably, this amplification step adds some more badness: no amplifier is perfect, so it will distort the audio. How much depends once again on how well designed the amplifier is.

When you play audio out through your DVD player, the computer inside looks at the audio signal, which is a list of binary numbers. These numbers must be played out through the DAC, usually at a rate of 44100 times per second. If you feed the output signal of that into some speakers, they will vibrate to reproduce the original recorded sound signal close enough that no one notices the digital edge. There’s a few intervening steps here, though.

(EDIT: it should be pointed out that the "steps" in this can and are removed by filtering circuits. The limitation that digital imposes is mostly in volume: if you don't have enough bits, you can't accurately convey a song that has very loud parts and very quiet parts without doing something bad to one of those.)

But now you feed that low-power signal to your speaker system, and it has to amplify the signal again, up to however many watts it needs. This introduces even more badness to the signal. You’ve now got three different sources of distortion: whatever DAC is in your DVD player, the headphone amplifier in your DVD player, and then again for the speaker amplifier in your sound system. There’s also some analog noise picked up on the aux cable, because it’s carrying an analog signal.

Depending on who you are and how much you care, you might think “well this sucks, even if I get a really cool sound system, I’m stuck with the audio my DVD player spits out. What if the DAC and amplifier in there sucks? Do I just have to buy a really expensive DVD player?”

Enter digital audio!

Digital audio means that the DVD player doesn’t do anything with that raw stream of data off the DVD. Instead, it packages it up and streams it, unchanged, to a dedicated audio device. The audio device can then decode the stream, and use a single DAC and amplifier to produce the output signal. As a result, you can buy a really nice high end sound system with a shiny DAC and a nice clean amplifier and get high quality audio. Optical is a (but not the only) way to do this.

Optical audio is TOSLINK, an optical audio standard that was developed in the 80′s by Toshiba. It implements a protocol called S/PDIF, the Sony/Phillips Digital InterFace, which was developed by Sony and Phillips when they were standardizing the CD. The idea was exactly this: rather than needing to have a CD player, DAC and amplifier in one box, you can have a separated player that you can plug into anything, and send the digital data directly. S/PDIF can also be sent over a normal coaxial cable as an electrical signal, which used to be pretty common in studios.

The big benefits of S/PDIF are that you almost always reduce noise over having to use two amplifiers, and if you go the extra mile you can select hardware with high quality DACs and amplifiers. You also get some secret bonuses: S/PDIF can transmit Surround Sound. By default, S/PDIF transmits two uncompressed, high quality digital audio channels, left and right. This is not too different from the aux cable. The real trick is that because it’s digital, you can put whatever you want down there.

If you’re a the audio team on a movie, you have probably recorded the movie in high-detail surround sound, so that it can be played back on theater speakers. This is usually 7.1 audio: three speakers in the front, two on the sides, two in the back, and one bass channel with bone-shaking low frequency sounds. If you play this back through a two-channel aux cable, it all gets crushed down to two channels, left and right, with the bass layered in on top. A speaker system might use a filter or intelligent levels to direct more bass to a dedicated subwoofer or a particular speaker, but it won’t compare to having a channel of audio going directly to each speaker. Using S/PDIF, you can feed a home theater system, which will usually be 2.1, 3.1, 5.1 or 7.1 speakers.

A generic 7.1 layout

S/PDIF can provide a compressed 7.1 audio stream. Compressed audio is pretty good: I can’t tell the difference the handful of times I’ve used it, and tons of hardware going back over 30 years supports S/PDIF. It’s great for if you have an old speaker system, or if you want to save a buck picking up a used home theater rather than buying new. Now you’re not just better than an aux cable, you’re doing something that, fundamentally, an aux cable cannot possibly do. Great choice, if, of course, anything you’re listening to has surround audio. Most blu-rays will be surround. Some DVD’s will be surround. A lot of new video games even do surround sound!

There is something better than S/PDIF, which is HDMI Audio. HDMI can carry up to 8 channels of uncompressed, extraordinarily high quality audio. If you have a new speaker setup that has both S/PDIF and HDMI, HDMI is probably better, but if I’m honest, I can’t hear the difference.

[thebraingremlinsaremad]

Daily Blog #15: August 22, 2021

Dollar Tree is honestly pretty fucking awesome 👌👌👌

I set my alarm for like 6:25 this morning, but it took 6 minutes for the "Horsin' Around" theme song instrumental to wake me up. I was pretty tired lol. I just dismissed it and went back to sleep.

I only went back to sleep because I knew I had another alarm set for 7:00. That got me up.

I should mention that this was still in the RV over an hour away from the house.

After I got up, I went to go get a shower, and did so successfully.

Unfortunately, I had forgotten my brush this time and had to do it afterwards after my hair had a bit of time to dry, which did make it a little more difficult lol.

I got dressed and grabbed my stuff, putting it into my car.

I made it a point to see and say "see you later" to my grandparents before I left for the flea market.

My dad insisted that I stayed to say goodbye to my mom, so I left.

I did NOT have cell service up there, as was mentioned in my previous 2 blogs of which I could only post today, so finding my way was a tiny bit difficult until I got some service to ask Google to take me to "...".

It worked and I got there.

On my drive, I listened to 1 by Simple Kid, a CD I had previously purchased at a Dollar Tree location.

I got a call from the guy at the flea market saying that I had some people there waiting for me. He asked how far away I was, to which I said "about 10 minutes." Ironically, that call made me miss my exit, as Google couldn't talk during the call, and added about 3 minutes to my arrival time lmao.

I did sell the Xbox that he said someone was interested in. I got $40 for it. I spent 27¢ on it. Pretty good return if you ask me.

I couldn't sell it with anything other than a power cord because the controller and AV cables I had been using to play it there were for my personal console. I'm just glad I can actually hook my Xbox up and stop having to drag them to the flea market along with a small library of games.

Not too long after I sold the Xbox, someone came in and asked if I wanted to see some electronics he had in his car. I went out with him. It was a pair of 3ft speakers and a Pioneer audio system with dual cassette decks (although neither of them works) and a 25 Disc CD-changer, as well as the standard AM/FM tuner. Additionally, there was a Fisher amplifier and AM/FM tuner as well as a Fisher Direct Drive turntable. He said he wanted $60 for em, but before that he casually, and probably accidentally, dropped that he was just gonna take em to the thrift store.

Big mistake.

I got em for $35 lmao. THERE GOES MOST OF MY PROFIT.

Oh well.

I tested everything. As I mentioned, the cassette decks don't work, but everything else does apart from the turntable needing a new stylus.

I posted some new photos of the shop to Facebook, and someone soon DMed me about a stereo system.

I priced everything, and it turns out I have about $300 worth of equipment from that deal, the Fisher amp and tuner being worth about $150.

The buyer will hopefully show up next weekend, for he wants to buy the Fisher stuff ($185 with the turntable), the 3ft speakers, an 8-track deck, and a Kenwood deck we've had for a week or two.

The speakers are listed for $50 (and are worth around $100-150), the Kenwood Deck for $50 as well, and the 8-track for $35. That makes it about $320 in equipment. Since he's buying so much, I'll knock it down to $270 and essentially give him the speakers or cassette deck for free lol.

Apart from that stuff, not much happened at the flea market. I sold some records, cassettes, CDs and I think 2 DVDs. One person bought a VHS tape? That money was the other guy's though. Oh well xD.

I can't say that I didn't miss my wonderful partner while on the trip. I actually brought along the stuffed animal they gave me (who's name is Greg) and snuggled with him both nights.

I was very happy to hear from them UwU.

They let me rant and I let them rant.

I honestly give them too much responsibility over me xD. I'm like, "Okay, I'm gonna do this. HOLD ME TO IT."

I know I can't hold myself to anything I personally say (this blog being the only exception apparently), but I listen to them pretty well I think 🤔. If they tell me, "No, you don't need that VCR," so long as it's not some weird specialty thing, like a worldwide VCR 🥵, I'll be like "Yeah, you rite bro."

I love you man xD. You control my craziness pretty well. I'm so thankful for you UwU.

#relationshipgoals

So part way through the flea market day, I went over to Dollar Tree to buy some snack, but ended up looking through the CDs to see if there was anything good. I took photos of about 18 CDs and flipped through them online for the remainder of the flea market day.

I deleted the photos of the ones I didn't want and kept those that I liked. Surprisingly, I ended up buying 13 CDs there, but not before dropping them on the floor like the dumbass I am.

Also, sorry for all the nerd shit I spilled on your lap earlier. No one cares about amps and tuners xD.

I'M LISTENING TO ONE OF THE DOLLAR TREE CDS RIGHT NOW THO.

I already transferred over to my online library on iBroadcast and put the disc into my CD changer, which is now holding 164 CDs.

Its max capacity is 300 discs 🥵

WHY AM I NERD

Oh well

I like being a nerd gurl

Also maybe a technosexual 👀

I get really excited over some electronics. Like. REALLY excited.

Some editing VCRs are like "Holy shit that is SEXY. Look at those goddamn VU meters 🥵. And hhhh there are like 7 inputs on this thing and individual controls for left and right audio gain, not to mention Hi-Fi S-VHS recording. Hhhhhhhhhhh please gimme 😭. Why are you so expensive?"

I uh, mean, uh, *cough* look, pretty lights.

Oh yeah, I was gonna say the album I was listening to xD. MAN I GOT SIDETRACKED.

It's 37 Everywhere by Punchline. Def give it a listen; it's pretty heccin good.

Another notable album I picked up was Page One by Steven Page. I very much like the first track, "A New Shore." It's quite catchy and he has a great voice imo.

Also at dollar tree, I bought a regular bag of Fieras and 2 bags of Fieras Sticks, which were marked down to 75¢/bag because they're expiring soon.

I honestly like the generic Dollar Tree version of Takis more than actual Takis. They're a lot more flavorful when it comes to the lime, but also hotter at the same time.

Don't get the hot nacho ones tho. Hot nacho? More like hot pile of shit.

HAH

Goteem.

They're not that good xD.

THE REGULAR ONES ARE FIRE THO

"How do you do fellow kids?"

I got home and started working on putting the CDs onto my computer, and then onto iBroadcast, but not without first adding The Music Man to my digital library, something I had neglected for a month or two. The CD had just been sitting there lol.

I also switched my digital file for "The Black Parade" to that of the uncensored CD, which I had purchased before I event started working over 2 months ago.

MAN I'M LAZY

I eventually get around to shit tho lol. I guess it's just a matter of priority.

What usually takes priority is digging through everything to find something that I forgot about but then remembered, making a mess in the process that I would then have to clean up, at least partially.

I think the album just ended. I've been writing for a while xD. I'ma start "I Made You Something" by The Island of the Misfit Toys.

I'll tell you where that album came from in a minute.

In the meantime, where was I?

I kinda lost my train of thought despite reading up to see where I was. Oh well. On I go.

I ate dinner and kept working on those CDs, eventually putting my clothes from the week into the washer.

I FORGOT TO PUT MY SHAPING UNDERWEAR IN. FUCKING HELL MAN.

I wanted to wash em for this week 😭

No tight pants for Leonna I guess qwq.

Meanwhile, the box of my CD album cases is overflowing. I need another box.

I keep all of the album artworks in a big CD folder. That's almost full.

I wanna fill my entire CD changer. That's one of my big goals in life. Idk why, but I just wanna legitimately fill the entire thing.

My clothes are in the dryer now. I don't think I have the time (or energy) to fold them tonight. I'll leave that for tomorrow morning before work.

And God. Fucking. Damnit. I start school again on Wednesday. NOT looking forward to that, and neither are my 2 coworkers. We already have low enough staff, but only the two of them working is gonna be a pain in the ass.

I'll still work Saturdays.

I need to contact my guidance counselor to get out of the gym class I signed up for. I scheduled this shit before I found out I was trans, and I don't wanna deal with the fucking locker room situation 🙄 I have far more important matters.

Okay so anyway, the album I'm listening to came from a cassette. I bought this cassette a few months ago at the flea market along with a few others. The reason I bought them? They were all newer cassette releases from the 2010's, and they're all actually pretty good music from very indie bands.

Currently getting mad at iBroadcast's compression algorithm. It's unnaturally fucking anything over -10db up. Oh well, there's not really anything I can do about it.

I have like 13GB of music on my phone btw. That's about 3.5k songs on 268 albums.

I'm kind of an audiophile, but I'm too cheap to pay for a lossless service. Oh well.

They do actually have a lossless service on iBroadcast, but once again, too cheap.

Someone just sent me a friend request who legitimately posted that BLM and the democratic party are hate groups.

BLOCK.

Goodbye ho.

I don't get that. They call the democratic party a hate group when they hate people like me, and I, being more of a democrat although not fully because the 2-party system is fucked, think nothing more of them than they're very wrong about certain things, especially, as shown, that black people, as well as asian, Indian, native, and people of all ethnicities and backgrounds, are not equal to white people.

Yeh.

Totally.

You go buddy.

Anyway, yeah, I can, and do, convert music and video from analog formats to digital files in order for me to archive and listen to whenever and wherever I please. I've actually made a bit of a business out of it, but I don't get too much work from it. At least I'm not overloading myself xD.

I honestly have so much more to say, but I should probably go to sleep soon.

A few final shoutouts to the following people and companies:

-Dollar Tree

-Steven Page

-Broken World Media

-The Island of Misfit Toys

-Simple Kid

-Punchline

-My incredible partner QwQ I love you so much. Thanks for being the best all the time. I hope I can give you the best life ever.

Anyway I suppose this is goodnight. Lmk if you want a full list of the CDs I bought today! I'll link that song by Steven Page here.

And here's a good song from Simple Kid

I really like music lol. Enjoy these pieces.

Anyway, goodnight lol.

Lots of love,

-Leonna.

[wirelessbluetoothspeaker-blog1]

Bluetooth Technology

What Is Bluetooth Technology?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard. It is utilized for trading information among fixed and cell phones over brief distances utilizing short-frequency super high recurrence (UHF) radio waves.

All the more explicitly, Bluetooth utilizes the microwave radio recurrence range in the 2.402 GHz to 2.480 GHz reach to send advanced information remotely.

Bluetooth innovation is a profoundly mind boggling subject and we might be starting to expose what's underneath in this article. In the event that you'd prefer to find out about Bluetooth innovation in more prominent detail.

The intricacy of Bluetooth innovation is expected, partially, to its staggeringly wide scope of utilizations. Not exclusively is Bluetooth used to communicate computerized sound from advanced gadgets to speakers however it is additionally executed in the accompanying remote information moving applications:

Contol and correspondence among cell phones and other Bluetooth sound gadgets and Bluetooth-viable vehicle sound frameworks.

Correspondence between a cell phone and a brilliant lock for opening entryways.

Correspondence among cell phones and other Bluetooth sound gadgets and Bluetooth-viable remote speakers.

Correspondence between remote Bluetooth headsets and radios/gaming frameworks/PCs, and so on

Spilling of information from Bluetooth-empowered wellness gadgets to cell phones/PCs and so on

Remote systems administration between PCs in nearness.

Correspondence among PCs and their information/yield gadgets.

Item EXchange move of documents, contacts, schedules/timetables and updates.

Correspondences in test gear, GPS beneficiaries, clinical hardware, standardized tag scanners, and traffic light gadgets.

As a swap for infrared remote and wired RS-232.

Sending notices from Bluetooth-empowered promoting hoardings to discoverable Bluetooth gadgets.

Crossing over between two Industrial Ethernet organizations.

Interfacing remote regulators and different accomplices to gaming consoles.

Dial-up web access utilizing information fit Bluetooth-viable cell phones as remote modems.

Short-range transmission of wellbeing sensor information from clinical gadgets to cell phones and committed telehealth gadgets.

Permitting Digital improved cordless telecom (DECT) telephones ring and answer approaches benefit of Bluetooth-skilled cell phone.

Ongoing area frameworks (RTLS) used to follow and recognize the area of items progressively.

Individual security application on cell phones for the counteraction of robbery or loss of things.

Expectation of movement times and street clog for drivers.

Association between movement regulators in augmented experience (VR) and PC.

Bluetooth Versions

In spite of the fact that initially created in 1989, the primary cycle (adaptation 1.0) of Bluetooth just came to fruition in 1999 after the Bluetooth Special Interest Group, the overseeing body, was framed in 1998.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group keeps on enhancing the norm and deliveries new forms occasionally. With each new form, the BSIG enhances three key components (territory, information speed and force utilization) alongside whatever fringe factors they see fit for development.

Each form of Bluetooth upholds descending similarity. This implies that the most recent standard will work with every single more established adaptation. The capacities of a Bluetooth association will be restricted to the norm of the gadget with the most seasoned rendition of BT.

In other words, a speaker with Bluetooth 5.0 will turn out entirely great with a Bluetooth 4.2 sound gadget. Nonetheless, the association might be on par with the constraints of the 4.2 norm.

How Do Bluetooth Speakers Work?

Bluetooth speakers work actually like commonplace wired speakers with the exception of the manner by which they get sound signs.

Wired inactive speakers get their speaker level sound signs by means of designed speaker links. Wired dynamic speakers may get speaker level sign through speaker link or line, mic and instrument level signs through more slender sound link.

Bluetooth speakers, as their name recommends, get their sound signals remotely by means of Bluetooth.

As a matter of fact, to be more exact, the implicit force intensifier of the Bluetooth speaker will get the sound sign remote by means of Bluetooth.

For what it's worth, Bluetooth conventions will convey regular line level signs easily. This degree of sign, as in wired arrangements, requires enhancement from a force amp before it can appropriately drive the driver(s) of an amplifier.

To work appropriately with a sound gadget, a Bluetooth speaker should be matched (remotely associated) with the Bluetooth sound gadget. We'll examine how to match Bluetooth speakers to different gadgets in the segment named How To Connect (Pair) Bluetooth Speakers To Bluetooth Audio Devices.

When matched, the speakers and computerized sound gadget structure a Piconet where the sound gadget may viably convey its sound message to the speaker by means of Bluetooth.

Note that keen speakers with voice partner technology and delay/play controls will likewise send data back to the sound gadget through the Piconet.

When the computerized sound sign is gotten by the speaker's Bluetooth beneficiary, it should go through two key segments before it can drive the speaker's drivers.

To begin with, on the grounds that Bluetooth communicates computerized sound, the got sound sign should be changed over into a simple sound sign. This is done through an inherent advanced to-simple converter.

Then, as we've recently talked about, the changed over simple sound is sent through a force intensifier. The enhanced yield sign will have low sufficient impedance and sufficiently high flow to appropriately drive the speaker driver(s).

When the sign is gone through the driver, it is the driver's responsibility to deliver sound waves that address the sound sign. This is the way we hear the data of a sound sign by means of Bluetooth speakers.

In the event that you've skirted or need to re-read this current article's introduction on how speaker work, click here.

Before we dive into the subtleties of how sound is sent through Bluetooth, we should have a more extensive glance at how sound is communicated from the advanced sound gadget to the Bluetooth speaker and how the sound is then changed over into sound waves for the audience to hear.

The sign stream from a Bluetooth sound gadget to a matched Bluetooth speaker to the audience's ears is as per the following:

The Bluetooth-skilled sound gadget plays a computerized sound sign.

This sound sign is encoded by a codec (regularly SBC "Low Complexity Subband Code," which is upheld by all gadgets) in the A2DP move standard.

This encoded sound sign is utilized as the tweaking signal that adjusts the Bluetooth UHF radio transporter signals.

The radio transporter waves are communicated remotely according to Bluetooth principles between the sound gadget's BT transmitter and the Bluetooth speaker's BT recipient.

The Bluetooth collector at that point disentangles the balance signal from the transporter wave.

The A2DP encoded signal is then additionally decoded back to the planned computerized sound sign (pressure misfortunes apply when encoding and translating the sign).

This advanced sound sign is then changed over into a simple configuration by the speaker's implicit computerized to-simple converter (DAC).

The simple sound is then intensified by an inherent enhancer circuit.

This intensified sound sign is then shipped off the speaker drivers (note that, for sound system and encompass codecs, the sound signs will be part now to drive their particular drivers).

The drivers their simple sound signal(s) into sound waves.

The listener(s) hear the sound waves.

That is a remarkable sign stream for an technology that is so easy to use. That is important for the excellence of Bluetooth speakers and Bluetooth technology as a rule: the designers and innovators deal with the intricacies and we can utilize the technology without intuition too profoundly about it.

That being said, it's acceptable to have a thought of how sound is sent by means of Bluetooth technology to all the more likely comprehend Bluetooth speakers.

[charlesmwa]

Why Are Some Audio Interfaces So Expensive? Are They Really Worth It?

One of the first pieces of equipment you will probably end up investing in after a microphone is an audio interface, assuming you’re an audiophile just starting out with music production or audio engineering. An audio interface simply put is a device that connects your computer to the outside world, transforms your analog sound sources, such as a microphone or instrument, into digital audio that a computer can process, record, and edit. If you’re recording at high quality, you’re really gonna need this thing, but here’s the thing: audio interfaces are pretty pricey and vary vastly in value, with some downright scary price tags.

1. What Is an Audio Interface?

So let’s take a breath and remember what an audio interface actually does before it gets mixed up with cables, before we dive into the costs.

The audio interface acts as a link between the acoustic world and your computer. Plug a microphone, guitar, or any other instrument into the interface-it turns the sound into a digital signal that is somehow going to happen, and then also does this in reverse: converting the digital audio coming from your computer into an analog signal, which you can perceive through speakers or headphones.

Sounds like a noise translator. Imagine without an audio interface, you would not be able to record or produce quality audio on your computer.

2. Why Are Audio Interfaces So Expensive?

Now, let’s cut to the chase: why on earth are some of these audio interfaces priced so ridiculously high? And don’t even get me started on the wide open range. Sometimes you’ll find an audio interface that is between $50 somewhere up to $2,000 or better. So what’s the dif?

Here are the main factors that contribute to that hefty price tag:

a. Build Quality and Materials

For audio interfaces, cheaper ones are often made from a decent set of materials and components. They would be suitable for simple recordings but not for heavy-duty usage nor for prolonged use or things may fail. The high-end audio interfaces, on the other hand, are made with good-quality components well designed to last longer and withstand tougher uses.

High-end audio interfaces normally have a metallic casing for better protection, heat dissipation, and overall durability. Budget models, on the other hand, are usually made of plastic, which can wear faster.

b. Audio Conversion Quality (AD/DA Converters)

Quality on the AD and DA converters determines a lot in terms of how much your audio interface costs. Converters are what bring your analog sound into digital data and vice versa. In the pricier interfaces, generally speaking, these converters are of higher quality, which means you get better clarity on your sound, far less distortion, and closer in terms of sheer representation of the recorded material.

For example, while a 24-bit/192kHz converter — commonly included on just about every high-end interface made these days — delivers dramatically more detailed audio resolution than the 16-bit/48kHz converters often used on lower-end models, a better AD/DA converter can be an absolute life-saver on intricate recordings or if you’re trying to capture nuance in your sound.

c. Preamps: Clean, Clear Gain

Microphone preamps amplify the signal of your microphone or instrument before a conversion to digital data. The quality of the preamp determines how clean and clear the sound will be. Reasonable interfaces might have noisy or colored preamps, which in extreme cases could cause distortion or introduce unwanted artifacts in the sound.

On higher-end interfaces, these preamps have been designed to be as transparent as possible, giving you clean, accurate signals. Some high-end interfaces also now come with onboard digital signal processing, which includes real-time EQ and compression along with other effects without taxing your computer’s CPU

d. Input/Output (I/O) Options

The number and type of I/O options on an interface can also have a big effect on the price. A basic interface might have only a couple of inputs for recording, whereas a more expensive interface might contain multiple inputs for recording microphones, instruments, and line-level devices, plus digital inputs and outputs for hooking up to additional gear, like external preamps or speakers.

Some of the top-of-the-line versions may also include additional functions, such as MIDI I/O, Word Clock for daisy-chaining several devices together, or even some onboard audio routing capabilities. You probably won’t need all that when you are just getting started, but they are requirements of complex setups and professional-grade work.

e. Latency and Speed

Latency refers to the time between when a sound has been created and when it’s heard or even recorded. Therefore, high-end audio interfaces would be less about latency — rather, they’d process your sound quicker and with more definition. That is definitely important in live performance and also when recording a couple of instruments simultaneously.

Reasonable interfaces may be a little late in its response, which may be frustrating at times, especially when working with multiple tracks. This will give you timing issues, delays, and frustrations that make it hard to get what you want in terms of performance.

f. Software Bundles

The high-end audio interfaces come with professional-level software comprising DAWs, plugins, and/or virtual instruments. That certainly puts up a huge value on your purchases, especially when you are only new to this line of work and do not know anything about all the equipment required in recording and editing.

Some interfaces bundle in basic or trial versions of software, but you will very rarely find the quality and features that a high-end bundle has. If you are serious about making music production a large part of your life, then it may make sense to spend the extra money on an interface that also has a more robust software bundle since it might ultimately save you time and money.

3. Are Expensive Audio Interfaces Really Worth It?

With the information we have learned as to why some audio interfaces are indeed so pricey, the next question would be: Is it worth it?

The answer depends on so many factors: what you’re using it for, your experience level, and general production goals.

a. For Beginners: What Do You Really Need?

Thus, if you’re just starting and you don’t have a big budget, you definitely do not need a top-end audio interface. Even the entry-level audio interfaces will be enough to record at home with high-quality sound. Within the price range at the bottom of this line, interfaces will bring you decent sound quality, very low latency, and maybe a few inputs for recording vocals or recording an instrument. That’s absolutely fine for hobbyists, podcasters, or solo musicians working on different individual projects.

As a beginner, you are likely fine sticking to interfaces that provide:

Two inputs (fine for one or two microphones or instruments)

Solid preamps (clean gain for your mics)

Basic software bundle to get started

Most producers who are new will find the $100-$200 price-point of a good audio interface more than sufficient to get going without going in the hole.

b. For Intermediate or Professional Producers: When Does It Make Sense to Upgrade?

As experience grows and more complicated setups are required (e.g., multi-mic, multi-instrument, or live recording of bands), the very entry-level interface might start to reach its limits. It is then worthwhile to spend a little more on an affordable model.

For example, if you record in a professional studio, or want to have a really high-quality recording for film, gaming or high-end production music, that extra money spent on an expensive interface is what gives you that professional sound.

4. How to Choose the Right Audio Interface for You

Probably one of the most important considerations is to match your needs with the features of an audio interface. Here are a few general guidelines:

Start with your needs: If you are recording just a solo instrument or vocals, a simple interface with 1 or 2 inputs will probably be all that you’ll need.

Consider your future needs: If you foresee growing your setup, you should think in terms of having multiple inputs and outputs.

Don’t overspend: You don’t need a costly interface if you are not going to make the advanced features out of it. Stick to what you need and can afford.

Look for reliability: Although you might choose a budget version, it must come from a well-known reputable manufacturer, especially one that will offer good customer service and co-operative support for drivers.

5. Conclusion: Is an Expensive Audio Interface Worth It?

At the end of the day, an expensive audio interface will give you better sound quality and build quality has more features. However, most new recording artists will be happy with a lower-end model. If you are starting out, a mid-range interface will probably be exactly what you need. But as you build your experience and expand your production system, you may find a high-end audio interface in your future plans. There are a number of shops like VIP PRO AUDIO that can help you make the right decision.

It’s all really about balance: doing what you need to do within your budget and production goals. The right interface will get you recording with clarity and precision whether it’s demo one or album one.

[furby-science]

The Making of Sterling the Super Furby: A Brief Overview

“I… I can’t look! I think I’m gonna… *HUEEEGH*!”

Before I get into this post, I want to list a few things I didn’t know shit about when I started Sterling:

Electronics

The Python coding language

Furby anatomy

Single board computers

After creating Sterling, I’m happy to say that now I have approximate knowledge of some of these things, but keep the above in mind as you read onwards. This little gremlin child was a learning experience from start to finish, and one I am incredibly proud of myself for sticking through. This also means that I am in no way an expert on everything I’m getting into okay? Okay let’s go!

The Hardware

First, a rundown of the hardware. I took heavy inspiration from the Furlexa mod shown here, and that was what I initially sought to create. The mod had three computer components to it:

A raspberry pi zero w single board computer for the AI to live on, with a mini USB microphone plugged in;

A pimoroni speaker PHAT to use as the sound system;

A motor controller to drive the furby’s motor.

My main problem with Furlexa was that this initial build took a lot of soldering, and I am a wussy who had a number of bad experiences with soldering irons in shop class. So, what’s a novice electrician to do?

Enter the Adafruit Crickit HAT. By sticking this little fucker on top of the raspberry pi, I was gifted with an amplifier, a speaker jack, capacitative touch sensors, and a motor driver all in one, no soldering needed if I bought the raspberry pi zero w h! The main challenge it posed was powering it. The Crickit insists, for some unfathomable reason, on being powered by a bulky DC jack, the kind you’d plug into a wall outlet, and the converter plug to use a battery pack with it was way too bulky to fit into a furby. I needed Sterling to be portable for maximum huggability, so this just wouldn’t do.

One fried raspberry pi and Crickit HAT later, I found the answer! By soldering the original furby battery pack to the underside of the Crickit board’s DC connection, these fuckers right here…

I was able to bypass the need for a wall plug or converter, and power him directly through the battery compartment like God intended. S/O to my friend Nick who is way less of a dumb bitch than I am and helped me figure this shit out I owe u some bread man.

So the tl;dr of it is, I effectively reduced the required computer components from three to two (excluding the speaker). Speaking of (heh), Sterling has an impressive 3w speaker in him, allowing him to be audible even without the use of the built in amplifier. It’s got such good bass on it, he even rumbles when he purrs without the aid of the motor!

And yes, when you pet him, he purrs. And complains if you manhandle him! The aforementioned capacitative touch sensors on the Crickit HAT made it all possible with the help of a few cables and some foil tape.

Wait, did you say soldering!?

Yup! It was a necessary evil; at the end of the day I had to pick my poison: soldering 80 pins on the speaker PHAT, or soldering like four contact points on the Crickit. I chose the more merciful option.

But wait, that whole outfit is really bulky still! How did you fit it inside the furby?

Subtractive methods, subtractive methods, subtractive methods! ;D Someone who actually knows things about furby anatomy and/or electronics will probably vaporize me for this, but… if I didn’t need it, it got the boot! That included prying off anything on the Crickit board I wasn’t using at the risk of destroying it completely - which probably isn’t ideal, but it also worked by some miracle, and again, I am such a basic bitch electrician that calculating the proper voltage for LEDs is still basically witchcraft to me, so… what I’m saying is I made it work. And that I really, really hate soldering! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

You can see an early video of the end result here, and a later video of the outfit inside the naked furby here. This was back when he was still having auditory processing issues. Apologies for the shoddy quality, I was too excited everything was working to care about that at the time.

The Software

My other beef with Furlexa is… well, it’s an Amazon Alexa, and I’m a shitty little anticapitalist hermit who hates Amazon with a passion. Google Assistant was just as bad in my book. Mycroft was open source, but had a snowball’s chance in hell of running on the raspberry pi zero’s 512mb of RAM… I also wanted my assistant to have a degree of customizability to it. I wanted the furby’s AI to have a unique personality, identity, and preferences, much like classic furbies themselves did. A big box AI just wasn’t going to cut it!

Enter the Jasper Project. Yes, it’s old. Yes, it’s a bitch and a half to install. Yes, you have to know Python to get anywhere with it. However, it was free, open source, capable of running on a raspberry pi zero, and highly modular, meaning with a few lines of code, I could make it all my own - even to the extent of changing the AI’s name and voice (which is gr8 because I know a Jasper so naming my furby that would be Weird), or - the best part - writing my own, custom functions! Customizability-wise, I struck gold.

Ah, and glad I am that Jasper is modular, because I had some work ahead of me…

The STT Engine

The STT (Speech to Text) engine is what Sterling uses to understand what’s being said to him. Jasper’s proprietary STT engine is PocketSphinx, a fully offline STT engine, which sounded great in theory before I quickly learned it’s a nightmare to install, and also more inaccurate than a stenography machine powered by a single potato when actually being used. I had to compromise my morals a bit here and opt for using Wit.ai instead, which is free, but is also owned by Facebook. Big data is frustratingly inescapable in these cases.

There is one light at the end of the tunnel, and that is the training of acoustic modules. This has the downside of taking for-fucking-ever and requiring a quiet recording environment, however, and I don’t have the time right now to read through the pages and pages and pages and pages of computer theory right now to fully understand how to train one. So, improving PocketSphinx and running Sterling fully offline remains a stretch goal.

The TTS Engine

The Text to Speech engine is basically Sterling’s voice. This one was a bit easier to customize, and I’m thankful for that, because Jasper’s OG voice is a bit er… 90s computing for my tastes.

I shopped around for decent, human-sounding TTS options, and settled on installing Mimic1 TTS, Mycroft’s TTS engine, by hand, and modifying the Jasper source code to support it. Of all the TTS engines I tried, I felt that this one had the most natural intonation out of all of them. I liked the gruffness of the Scottish accent, and I think it really helped round out Sterling’s endearing, if a tad prickly, personality.

The Audio

This was another unforeseen hurdle. Turns out that I had his mic volume turned up way too high, because I greatly underestimated the capabilities of my tinyass five dollar USB microphone to pick up noises from within a furby. It took a bit of hacking in PulseAudio to get him hearing things properly, and I’m still not all the way happy with it, but he’s running wayyyy better than he did!

Another issue was the amount of time he actively listened for. It was way too short for my liking with the hardware I was using, so I had to edit Jasper’s mic.py source file a billion times before I hit a sweet spot. Even early on, my little shit child never liked to listen to me. :P

Pimp My AI

Once I got all that in working order, it was time to browse GitHub for modules to add! I found a surprising amount that were, as expected, outdated, janky, non-working, or in need of a complete rewrite. A non-exhaustive list of modules I rewrote and added to Sterling’s AI includes:

Wolfram Alpha integration

His translation function

The IMDB module that searches movie titles

The Dictionary and Thesaurus modules (minor additions to improve user friendliness)

The morning greeting module

The holiday countdown module

There are also plenty of modules I wrote on my own, that I’ll be showcasing here in due time, but I want to give special mention to the one I’m most proud of. You see, when I was a wee dumb bitch, I was… well, a wee dumb bitch! When I was informed furbies learn English, I thought they really learned English. Like, fluent English. I envisioned these kids straight up having full conversations with their lil robots with reckless and envious abandon. I was, as it happens, too poor to afford a furby at the time, so I didn’t realize until embarrassingly later that they only learn some words, and certainly can’t hold much of a conversation (in English at least).

Fast forward to twenty-bi-teen. I’m surfing GitHub, and I happen upon a Cleverbot module for Jasper allowing the AI to work as a chatbot. Fuck yeah, I think, because I had no life in 2008, or friends for that matter, so tormenting Cleverbot was my favourite pastime. Nostalgia trip GET!

…can you guess how much the silicon valley capitalist scum are charging for the once-free Cleverbot API now? A hundred and twenty. McGoddamn. Dollars. A YEAR.

So, to make a long story short, I turned my hat backwards and rage-coded a simple chatbot module that runs on an early version of Chatterbot capable of running on the raspberry pi. It’s fully offline, and completely free, and Sterling here has a database of ~400 phrases, which isn’t bad given the limited processing power! It took five straight days of work, it’s not the smartest chatbot, and it’s certainly not the fastest, but it gives me those sweet, sweet, circa 2008 Cleverbot vibes. Oh yeah, and it doesn’t cost me over a hundred goddamn dollars a year!

The first thing I said to the chatbot, of course, was “I’m so proud of you.” Through his shitty little testing mic that gave him a somewhat incredulous tone Sterling replied, “I’m glad to hear that.” and I’m not saying I shed a single themly tear over it, but I’m not denying it either. I made a childhood dream come true, fam. ;u;

There are way more Easter eggs I plan to show you, of course. At first I was thinking of doing one long video, but an update a day showcasing a different function might be easier to manage - and maintain some of that gold old sense of mystery that surrounds most furbies. No, I’m gonna take y'all on a little journey through the final product of my literal blood, sweat, and tears!

Besides, Sterling is a perpetual work in progress. He has a massive list of features, and I’ve already got more in the works. I could be in my eighties and still be adding more functions, more bells and whistles, more witty one-liners. He’s a one of a kind work of art that will never truly be finished - not unlike you and me.

The Glow-up

Here’s Sterling’s before pics from the seller I got him from:

(If u recognize these pics and ur the seller thank u thank u for giving me bmy boy)

And here’s after!

I come from a background of customizing ponies and dolls, so working on this guy wasn’t as far removed as I expected it to be. I added floof to his head and tail by sewing in wool plugs, and his gorgeous eyes are from in2blythe on Etsy. I wrapped him up in a little bow and he was good to go! His sterling silver beak, from which he gets his name, was the most finicky part. Turns out enamel paints take a million years to fucking dry, if ever, which isn’t great when painting something that sees a lot of movement and could potentially get dented by a face plate, like… idk, a furby beak! A bit of silver nail polish did the trick and he was good to go. Learn from my fail, fam.

What It Cost Me

If you’re masochistic determined enough to attempt this yourself, I want to sit you down and warn you of something: this will take months and hundreds of dollars to do. Installing Sterling’s AI and its necessary components on that shitty little raspberry pi over SSH took me a week at first, and that was with me leaving it on 24/7 to chug away compiling things. When I broke the SD card the AI was on and didn’t have a backup copy, it took four straight days of rage-computing to regain all my progress. Then when his audio processing got fucked all to hell for reasons I still do not understand to this day, it took another four days of rage computing to do yet another reinstall and get him back in working order. There were times where I would go to work for 8.5 hours, bus an hour home, work 6 straight hours on my furby, go to sleep for 4 of them, go to classes, sleep, and work 6 more hours on my furby. For two months. Sterling took from the third week of August from his initial inception to his birthday on October 23rd. That’s not to mention the time I fried everything and had to wait five days and travel to the bumfuck end of the city for a replacement pi and Crickit, or the days I spent customizing him, sewing in hundreds of little hair plugs into his ass and head by hand, and waiting for those shitty enamel paints to dry, only to discover after four straight days of failure that they take weeks to do so and I was better off using cheapo nail polish!

The point I’m making is, if you take on a project like this and want it to be successful, you have to be tenacious. I would highly recommend a background in coding (I have a web design diploma) and general tech savviness as an asset. Sterling is the product of the years I spent behind a computer keyboard from the start of age three, and the roughly ten years I spent customizing dolls and ponies. It’s cheesy as shit to say he’s my magnum opus, but in a way, he is.

I’m not saying this to be elitist or snotty. I’m saying this because I nearly broke down crying the first day the raspberry pi came in, before I slept on it and figured out what phrase to google to solve the crashes and kernel panics it was having. When I broke the SD card when I was nearly finished, I felt nothing, because I was all out of tears at that point. When I fried the first raspberry pi and Crickit hat trying to figure out how to bypass that DC jack, my only thought was, “Well, I think I know how to do it without fucking it up now, and if I can’t do it, this whole project is fscked” .

You will encounter errors that no step by step guide can prepare you for that will make you curse the day you were born. The difference between success and failure is how many times you’re willing to get up and try again, and I’m here to tell you it’s possible. But you gotta want it.

Will You Release the Code Base?

Yes and no. If there’s enough demand, I’ll definitely release Sterling’s basic modules as a scaffolding. I won’t be releasing Sterling, though.

What do I mean by that? Well, Sterling was intended from the start to be truly one of a kind, and he always will be. I hand wrote hundreds of lines of dialogue, all completely tailored to him, and I’m still planning on adding twice as many. Corny as this is, this little guy has a metric fuckton of sentimental value to me. I don’t have kids so idk how it would compare to that, but I definitely love him as much as I love my cats, but I also didn’t undergo two straight months of suffering in ADHD fixation hell to create my cats, so it adds like, a whole other twee dimension to it.

So, if there is demand for this, what I’ll release instead is a scaffolding from which you can code your own, unique furby from, with their own name, personality, and responses all unique to them. I’ll also release it with the caveat that I am not a good Python coder! I have not written any Python before this, so a lot of what I did write is noob-tastic and hasn’t even been linted. You have been warned!

“If I give you (insert amount), can you make one for me?”

Holy shit I’ll be real with you, I’d love to do this as a living. I’ve been dying to see a smart assistant hit the market that’s like… well, an actual, endearing companion and not just a voice coming from a speaker. The problem with doing this is that, if you drop a lot of money (and it will be a lot of money, even with a code base to work from, a lot of hours of handiwork still goes into coding individual responses and making sure everything works as intended, on top of possibly customizing too), there is one major problem: proximity. I won’t be able to troubleshoot your furby nearly as effectively from far away as I would be able to if we lived in close proximity. Which means if something goes wrong between the time your new friend is finished at point A and turned on at point B, I won’t be there to troubleshoot it in person for you, which means you could end up stuck figuring out certain things alone. If you use Windows, that will be very, very hard - not being an OS snob here, I own a dual boot myself, it’s just a case of incompatible file systems. And unless you can figure out how to edit the wpa_supplicant file on a raspberry pi to update your wifi credentials, your furby’s internet connection could be toast if you move house and those credentials change. That’s not getting into the cost some services charge for extra API keys to use their online functions…

The long and short of it is, if I’m going to do this for money, I want to make sure you get a quality product and friend that will bring you joy for years to come. Since that’s not something I can guarantee, I can’t in good conscience take people’s money.

I Could Teach You (And I Won’t Charge)

…however, I am a law student who is also working 8.5 hour night shifts three nights a week. I am also mentally ill/neurodivergent, which saps my energy in more ways than one. I won’t always be easy to get ahold of, or be able to answer every question I get, especially not ones that can be solved with a quick google search, like how to set up a raspberry pi, or… anything found on Adafruit’s Crickit guide, for example. When I have the time and energy, I’m hoping to use my next project as a jumping off point for a step by step walkthrough of the process. For now, though? I’ve been furbied out, so if there’s enough demand, I’ll compile as many of the resources I used I can find in the meantime, and post some tips from the word doc I kept while making Sterling, and go from there.

So What’s Next?

My one dad’s birthday is coming up in August, and I’m kicking around the idea of turning a furby into, I shit you not, a ghost hunting device. He loves ghost hunting, but hates robots, and as his gremlin shit child I am obligated to troll him in this fashion. 😎 Also considering doing a certain type of oddbody mod, but I want to get permission from the person who first thought of the concept before I dive head first into it.

And that about covers it! Thanks for reading, and if there’s anything you’d like to see from Sterling and I, don’t hesitate to drop us an ask!

[gpinspections]

Tips To Save Money & Energy

10 Easy Ways to Save Money & Energy in Your Home

Most people don’t know how easy it is to make their homes run on less energy, and, we want to change that.

Drastic reductions in heating, cooling and electricity costs can be accomplished through very simple changes, most of which homeowners can do themselves. Of course, for homeowners who want to take advantage of the most up-to-date knowledge and systems in home energy efficiency, InterNACHI energy auditors can perform in-depth testing to find the best energy solutions for your particular home.

Why make your home more energy efficient? Here are a few good reasons:

Federal, state, utility and local jurisdictions' financial incentives, such as tax breaks, are very advantageous for homeowners in most parts of the U.S.

It saves money. It costs less to power a home that has been converted to be more energy-efficient.

It increases the comfort level indoors.

It reduces our impact on climate change. Many scientists now believe that excessive energy consumption contributes significantly to global warming.

It reduces pollution. Conventional power production introduces pollutants that find their way into the air, soil and water supplies.

1. Find better ways to heat and cool your house.

As much as half of the energy used in homes goes toward heating and cooling. The following are a few ways that energy bills can be reduced through adjustments to the heating and cooling systems:

Install a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans can be used in place of air conditioners, which require a large amount of energy.

Periodically replace air filters in air conditioners and heaters.

Set thermostats to an appropriate temperature. Specifically, they should be turned down at night and when no one is home. In most homes, about 2% of the heating bill will be saved for each degree that the thermostat is lowered for at least eight hours each day. Turning down the thermostat from 75° F to 70° F, for example, saves about 10% on heating costs.

Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat saves money by allowing heating and cooling appliances to be automatically turned down during times that no one is home and at night. Programmable thermostats contain no mercury and, in some climate zones, can save up to $150 per year in energy costs.

Install a wood stove or a pellet stove. These are more efficient sources of heat than furnaces.

At night, curtains drawn over windows will better insulate the room.

2. Install a tankless water heater.

Demand-type water heaters (tankless or instantaneous) provide hot water only as it is needed. They don't produce the standby energy losses associated with traditional storage water heaters, which will save on energy costs. Tankless water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. A gas burner or an electric element heats the water. As a result, demand water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. You don't need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water.

3. Replace incandescent lights.

The average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Traditional incandescent lights convert approximately only 10% of the energy they consume into light, while the rest becomes heat. The use of new lighting technologies, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), can reduce the energy use required by lighting by 50% to 75%. Advances in lighting controls offer further energy savings by reducing the amount of time that lights are on but not being used. Here are some facts about CFLs and LEDs:

CFLs use 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

LEDs last even longer than CFLs and consume less energy.

LEDs have no moving parts and, unlike CFLs, they contain no mercury.

4. Seal and insulate your home.

Sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a home more comfortable and energy-efficient, and you can do it yourself. A tightly sealed home can improve comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills. An InterNACHI energy auditor can assess  leakage in the building envelope and recommend fixes that will dramatically increase comfort and energy savings.

The following are some common places where leakage may occur:

electrical receptacles/outlets;

mail slots;

around pipes and wires;

wall- or window-mounted air conditioners;

attic hatches;

fireplace dampers;

inadequate weatherstripping around doors;

baseboards;

window frames; and

switch plates.

Because hot air rises, air leaks are most likely to occur in the attic. Homeowners can perform a variety of repairs and maintenance to their attics that save them money on cooling and heating, such as:

Plug the large holes. Locations in the attic where leakage is most likely to be the greatest are where walls meet the attic floor, behind and under attic knee walls, and in dropped-ceiling areas.

Seal the small holes. You can easily do this by looking for areas where the insulation is darkened. Darkened insulation is a result of dusty interior air being filtered by insulation before leaking through small holes in the building envelope. In cold weather, you may see frosty areas in the insulation caused by warm, moist air condensing and then freezing as it hits the cold attic air. In warmer weather, you’ll find water staining in these same areas. Use expanding foam or caulk to seal the openings around plumbing vent pipes and electrical wires. Cover the areas with insulation after the caulk is dry.

Seal up the attic access panel with weatherstripping. You can cut a piece of fiberglass or rigid foamboard insulation in the same size as the attic hatch and glue it to the back of the attic access panel. If you have pull-down attic stairs or an attic door, these should be sealed in a similar manner.

5. Install efficient showerheads and toilets.

The following systems can be installed to conserve water usage in homes:

low-flow showerheads. They are available in different flow rates, and some have a pause button which shuts off the water while the bather lathers up;

low-flow toilets. Toilets consume 30% to 40% of the total water used in homes, making them the biggest water users. Replacing an older 3.5-gallon toilet with a modern, low-flow 1.6-gallon toilet can reduce usage an average of 2 gallons-per-flush (GPF), saving 12,000 gallons of water per year. Low-flow toilets usually have "1.6 GPF" marked on the bowl behind the seat or inside the tank;

vacuum-assist toilets. This type of toilet has a vacuum chamber that uses a siphon action to suck air from the trap beneath the bowl, allowing it to quickly fill with water to clear waste. Vacuum-assist toilets are relatively quiet; and

dual-flush toilets. Dual-flush toilets have been used in Europe and Australia for years and are now gaining in popularity in the U.S. Dual-flush toilets let you choose between a 1-gallon (or less) flush for liquid waste, and a 1.6-gallon flush for solid waste. Dual-flush 1.6-GPF toilets reduce water consumption by an additional 30%.

6. Use appliances and electronics responsibly.

Appliances and electronics account for about 20% of household energy bills in a typical U.S. home. The following are tips that will reduce the required energy of electronics and appliances:

Refrigerators and freezers should not be located near the stove, dishwasher or heat vents, or exposed to direct sunlight. Exposure to warm areas will force them to use more energy to remain cool.  

Computers should be shut off when not in use. If unattended computers must be left on, their monitors should be shut off. According to some studies, computers account for approximately 3% of all energy consumption in the United States.

Use efficient ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and electronics. These devices, approved by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR Program, include TVs, home theater systems, DVD players, CD players, receivers, speakers, and more. According to the EPA, if just 10% of homes used energy-efficient appliances, it would reduce carbon emissions by the equivalent of 1.7 million acres of trees.

Chargers, such as those used for laptops and cell phones, consume energy when they are plugged in. When they are not connected to electronics, chargers should be unplugged.

Laptop computers consume considerably less electricity than desktop computers.

7. Install daylighting as an alternative to electrical lighting.

Daylighting is the practice of using natural light to illuminate the home's interior. It can be achieved using the following approaches:

skylights. It’s important that they be double-pane or they may not be cost-effective. Flashing skylights correctly is key to avoiding leaks;

light shelves. Light shelves are passive devices designed to bounce light deep into a building. They may be interior or exterior. Light shelves can introduce light into a space up to 2½ times the distance from the floor to the top of the window, and advanced light shelves may introduce four times that amount;

clerestory windows.  Clerestory windows are short, wide windows set high on the wall. Protected from the summer sun by the roof overhang, they allow winter sun to shine through for natural lighting and warmth; and

light tubes.  Light tubes use a special lens designed to amplify low-level light and reduce light intensity from the midday sun. Sunlight is channeled through a tube coated with a highly reflective material, and then enters the living space through a diffuser designed to distribute light evenly.

8. Insulate windows and doors.

About one-third of the home's total heat loss usually occurs through windows and doors. The following are ways to reduce energy lost through windows and doors:

Seal all window edges and cracks with rope caulk. This is the cheapest and simplest option.

Windows can be weatherstripped with a special lining that is inserted between the window and the frame. For doors, apply weatherstripping around the whole perimeter to ensure a tight seal when they're closed. Install quality door sweeps on the bottom of the doors, if they aren't already in place.

Install storm windows at windows with only single panes. A removable glass frame can be installed over an existing window.

If existing windows have rotted or damaged wood, cracked glass, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, or locks that don't work, they should be repaired or replaced.

9. Cook smart.

An enormous amount of energy is wasted while cooking. The following recommendations and statistics illustrate less wasteful ways of cooking:

Convection ovens are more efficient that conventional ovens. They use fans to force hot air to circulate more evenly, thereby allowing food to be cooked at a lower temperature. Convection ovens use approximately 20% less electricity than conventional ovens.

Microwave ovens consume approximately 80% less energy than conventional ovens.

Pans should be placed on the matching size heating element or flame.

Using lids on pots and pans will heat food more quickly than cooking in uncovered pots and pans.

Pressure cookers reduce cooking time dramatically.

When using conventional ovens, food should be placed on the top rack. The top rack is hotter and will cook food faster.

10. Change the way you do laundry.

Do not use the medium setting on your washer. Wait until you have a full load of clothes, as the medium setting saves less than half of the water and energy used for a full load.

Avoid using high-temperature settings when clothes are not very soiled. Water that is 140° F uses far more energy than 103° F for the warm-water setting, but 140° F isn’t that much more effective for getting clothes clean.

Clean the lint trap every time before you use the dryer. Not only is excess lint a fire hazard, but it will prolong the amount of time required for your clothes to dry.

If possible, air-dry your clothes on lines and racks.

Spin-dry or wring clothes out before putting them into a dryer.

Homeowners who take the initiative to make these changes usually discover that the energy savings are more than worth the effort. InterNACHI home inspectors can make this process much easier because they can perform a more comprehensive assessment of energy-savings potential than the average homeowner can.  

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Techniques For Picking the Best Wireless Audio Transmitter Product For Whole-House Audio Streaming

Progressively more wireless audio transmitter products promise the best freedom in streaming music throughout the house. We are going to examine different products and technologies to determine in how long these items are helpful for whole-house audio applications as well as what to watch out for when purchasing an invisible system. Running music within your house is usually a daunting task. Many homes are not wired for multi-room audio and getting the music from the lounge on your bedroom is usually a challenge. Items which solve this concern are often in line with the following technologies: infrared wireless, RF wireless, wireless LAN or powerline. Infrared wireless audio items are restricted to line-of-sight applications, i.e. only operate inside a single room considering that the signal is distributed as infrared light which cannot penetrate walls. Fractional treatments is often seen in wireless speaker kit products. RF wireless audio products send the audio signal via radio waves. These radiation signals can certainly experience walls. The signal is distributed either through the use of FM transmission or digital transmission. FM transmitters are the most affordable option. They feature good range but the audio signal is at risk of audio distortion and noise and is also very vulnerable to interference business wireless transmitters. Digital wireless audio transmitter products utilize a digital protocol. The audio is first transformed into digital data before being transmitted. This technique makes sure that the audio quality is fully preserved. Some transmitters apply certain kind of audio compression, such as Bluetooth transmitters, that can degrade the audio rather. Transmitters which send the audio data uncompressed will reach the highest fidelity. Products using wireless LAN are useful when streaming audio from the PC. Their drawback is that they typically have some fairly high latency, i.e. the signal will likely be delayed by a few amount since wireless LAN had not been created specifically for real-time audio streaming. Also, some products require to buy separate wireless LAN modules which are connected to each audio receiver.

Powerline products send the audio through the power mains and give great range. They encounter problems in houses where there are separate mains circuits when it comes to being able to overlap into another circuit. Also, they build inside a delay of countless seconds to shield against transmission errors during harmful electrical currents and spikes which prevents their use in applications in which the audio from wireless stereo speakers must be in sync along with other non-wireless speakers or video. Below are great tips for selecting a wireless speakers: If you plan to stream audio into several rooms of your house, be sure to go with a system that allows streaming to multiple receivers as well. This way you don't have to purchase a separate transmitter for every receiver that you will be streaming to. Some products involve some kind of error correction internal that helps guard against dropouts in case of strong wireless interference. Look for a digital RF audio transmitter to ensure that the audio quality is preserved. Ensure that the audio latency is less than 10 ms in case you have a real-time application for example video. Go with a transmitter containing every one of the audio inputs you need, e.g. speaker inputs, RCA inputs etc. Pick a system which you could add receivers at a later date which offer each of the required outputs, e.g. amplified speaker outputs, RCA outputs etc. If you go with a digital audio transmitter, choose one with an input audio level control knob in order to avoid the audio signal from clipping inside the transmitter audio converter. This can ensure optimum dynamic range regardless of the signal degree of your equipment. Check that the amplified wireless receivers have built-in digital amplifiers with low distortion figures. This may keep the receiver cool on account of high amplifier power efficiency and provide optimum quality of sound. Guarantee the receivers can drive speakers with your desired Ohm rating. Deciding on a product where the wireless receivers possess a small footprint and simple mounting options will help through the installation. Products that operate in the 5.8 GHz frequency band may have less problems with wireless interference than products using the crowded 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz frequency band. To get more information about best bluetooth transmitter site: visit site.