Drawn from Paul McGowan’s The Audiophile’s Guide series, these daily tips offer concise, expert insight into refining high-end stereo systems. With a half century of experience at PS Audio, McGowan distills complex concepts into practical steps—ideal for us audiophiles seeking to elevate realism, correct system flaws, and make their music come alive.
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The Daily Tip
Tip Number 15: The Cable Match That Matters
You may have just swapped in a well-regarded pair of speaker cables. Heavy, solid, likely reviewed to the heavens. But something's shifted—and not in the right direction. The highs might...
Tip Number 14: Short Cables Can Sound Better
The rack looks sharp. Cables neatly fanned, interconnects gracefully arced, not a strand out of place. You’ve likely taken pride in the order. But sometimes, what looks perfect doesn’t quite...
Tip Number 13: Laser Lens, Laser Focus
Your CD or SACD player once sparkled. Transients were sharp. Space felt etched and clean. But lately, something’s dulled. Detail seems softened. The shimmer’s faded. You’ve checked the cables, cycled...
Tip Number 12: Tighten the Bass with Damping Fa...
You’ve hopefully got the right gear. The amp may have plenty of watts, the speakers could be full-range and efficient. There’s presence, slam, extension. But the bass gives the impression...
Tip Number 11: Clean Contacts, Clear Sound
You’ve likely done the upgrades. Better cables. Regenerated power. Carefully chosen gear. The system probably sounds excellent—clean, balanced, refined. And yet, something still feels like it’s holding back. The treble...
Tip Number 10: Get the Listening Triangle Right...
Your measurements hopefully look spot-on. The speakers are equidistant. The triangle probably checks out at 60 degrees. Imaging seems stable. Vocals sit center. Everything appears “right”—but not quite close. You...