How To

How phono cartridges work

Moving magnet or moving coil phono cartridges, which is the best?

Today phono cartridges come in two main types, moving magnet and moving coil. This is normally shortened to MM or MC. Notably, there are also ceramic types that are used in inexpensive record players. A phono cartridge is an electro-mechanical device. In other words, the mechanical part refers to the unit that moves, normally the stylus and the arm that it is mounted to, known as the cantilever. The electro

Integrated amplifier or separate components, which is preferable? The range of amplifiers and separate audio components available is vast. Each has a confusing array of features and connectivity. The first choice is whether to purchase an integrated all-in-one system or separate units. There is also a finer distinction between all-in-one units and integrated amplifiers. Next, do you go down the separates route? This will provide improved performance but at a greater cost. The main factors are the

Here is a setup guide for all of the models in the Roksan Attessa range, select your model from the list below:

Streaming Amplifier

Integrated Amplifier

CD Transport

Turntable

Set Up Your Roksan Attessa Streaming Amplifier

Setting up your Roksan Attessa Streaming Amplifier could not be any easier. Firstly, using the App Store or Google Play store on your smartphone or smart device, download the MaestroUnite application. This app will allow you to create a system that connects your Attessa devices

Are you looking for a new pair of hi-fi speakers but don’t know whether to choose Active or Passive Speakers or a Powered model? We’ve created this guide to take you through the key differences and help you choose the speakers that best suit you.

The terms active, passive or powered simply refer to the speaker amplification (how it is powered) or crossover (how the signal is sent to the drivers).

Powered Speakers

Powered speakers are often confused with active speakers. They feature their own

Hi-Fi and Speaker Specifications, what do they mean and how do we interpret them? Understanding what impedance, sensitivity and power specifications really mean.

Building a Hi-Fi system can often be a confusing and mind-numbing exercise in understanding paper specifications which often, don't make much sense. Impedance, sensitivity, power rating; often these terms seem to have more in common with a physics textbook than listening to music!

Worry not though dear reader, as in today's Audio Affair

We can save you more money when you upgrade!

Often getting your desired kit can be an expensive and daunting endeavour! You may have already invested in a quality pair of speakers or an amplifier a few years back and although you have a connection with them you know there is more out there; better performance, sleeker looks etc.  This said, a step up on an already expensive investment often means another one and this can be inadvisable.

This is where we can help - we offer generous part exchange

Guide to HI-FI isolation: Firstly, what is it?

When you have spent a considerable amount of time and money on setting up your home HI-FI system you want to ensure that it works to its optimum level. To really make your hi-fi perform to its' optimum you need to take the time to explore and invest in HI-FI isolation.

Why isolate HI-FI components?

To put it simply, do not underestimate the difference that good isolation can make on your sound.

Unwanted vibrations are the enemy of a hi-fi system as

Beginners Guide to NAS Storage and Home Networking: Firstly, let’s get to grips with the terms. NAS stands for ‘Network Attached Storage’. This is the term for the drive device that allows you to externally store high-resolution music at a quality that exceeds CDs. You can rip your CD collection onto a NAS drive too so it also a brilliant space-saving solution.

What does a NAS drive offer the audiophile? Standard NAS drives are quite cheaply available but are not specifically targeted at the audiophile

Welcome to how to stream music: a beginner's guide.

Always wanted to explore streaming but don't know where to start? In this blog, we will explore what streaming is, how it can enhance your hi-fi experience and the products the team at Audio Affair recommend to make your streaming system sing.

What is streaming?

A Streamer can be described in complex terms as a network renderer. In simple terms, this basically means the ability to access and play music via a network connection, without the need