HUEI PHONO AMPLIFIER FROM CHORD

[@danielduesbury9269]

Hi Paul, Would you get this over the project tube box ds2 or music feldelity mx vinyl?

[@roodud]

Do you have a video or link to an article on what impedance and gain mean and their relationship to cartridges. I sort of take gain to mean volume but really don’t understand impedance. FYI, I have a goldring 1042 and you’ve previously suggested the item in the next video, the Vertere

[@dcfcdunk]

Recently purchased this phono stage...really not that difficult an interface to deal with. Sounds great.

[@mkp420]

Great review! I bought this while transitioning from a MM to a MC cartridge. I found false hope as the set up for MM was understandably easier (did not have to think about settings for impedance). When I transitioned to the MC, I was befuddled during set up. After trial and error, I figured out the toggles of the impedance and gain orbs scrolled down and up the chain of colors. Once I figured that out, it made it easier to pinpoint which 'hue' (pardon the pun) was next up. After getting it set up, I am pleased with the sound!

[@TheAudiophileMan]

More people should use 'befuddled' in their social media posts. It's a vastly under-used and ignored word and I, for one, like it very much. And I'm happy that you're happy.

[@gregladd9790]

Paul- I am planning on cleaning my vinyl albums soon and was planning on using Tergitol based on a video I had seen on your KZbin channel not too long ago. I can’t find it now. Will you be putting the video up again? There was quite a bit of information there I found valuable and was hoping to be able to take advantage of your extensive testing in regards to amounts and combinations with isopropyl alcohol. Thanks in advance. - Greg

[@classicrock7890]

Get some 'Right One' from MCRU. No financial connection but is best vinyl cleaner I have tried (secret formula).

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Hi Greg - yes I slipped up there didn't I? I pulled the video to update it with a new surfactant but then I experienced delays in receiving it. Then I found an additional surfactant and chased that. Then the latter proved to be ultra expensive so I binned that idea. Meanwhile the first new surfactant has finally turned up and I'm planning to issue a new, updated video soon :) Phew! In future, rather than pulling and updating videos, I'll leave the old one and just add updates as I go.

[@HoomanR17]

@@TheAudiophileMan Holly cow.. a new surfactant.. Better than Turgitol? You have my ear!! I've cleaned my first 50 mostly old records out of 500 records the Turgitol method and USC you had suggested. Hopefully your video will come out when I get to my more audiophile records :)

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Well, I'm not sure about that yet :) It's a surfactant that has been used elsewhere but mixed with other products in a commercial form. I've managed to find a bottle of pure liquid, unsullied by anything else to see if it alone does a good job. Tests to follow :)

[@gregladd9790]

Paul, Thanks for the reply. I look forward to the update. By the way, you do a great job with this channel. Tons of information well presented. Many thanks for the help in navigating .through the audio hobby. - Greg

[@tonyhodgkinson4586]

I quite like the interface, admittedly a problem without a manual

[@HoomanR17]

Paul greetings and enjoying your videos. I'm wondering if you can explain how your "reference" system relates to the reviews that you do. Is it a system that is made up of parts you happen to have for review or are they your-own you've curated based on a given criteria, cost/sound/resolution/etc. etc.. and are you happy with its sound, or not,... or do you have a different Reference system with a capital R. Just wanting to adjust and fine tune my lens when I watch your reviews.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Hi Hooman - yes, good question. I have a range of reference systems. Some relate to a price point, some are geared to a genre of hi-fi component or a specific technology. They're a mixture of my own gear and other items on long term loan but those I like and trust and have been specifically requested by myself to do a specific job. some I wouldn't buy for casual listening but I know are good tools for a specific task. All are chosen tools for a particular job and are brought out when needed. Hence, if I receive Product X for review, I'll think about the reference system it needs to sit within and what products I want to compare it with. All reference products are familiar to me. I know the reference items and how they behave. The idea, basically, is to remove all variables. That is, when played in a reference system, the only sonic changes/differences I hear will be offered, triggered or inspired by the review product.

[@HoomanR17]

@@TheAudiophileMan Paul thanks for your reply. After reading it I watched the video again to see your review with a new lens. I realize now a photo-stage is a complex animal in all it offers/enhances and see how you are providing us with the brushstrokes in this canvas by sharing what it does within tracks you are clearly familiar with. I still find myself thinking about features you share (ie the space, the singer separation from the band, dynamic, separation of percussive elements, etc.)and how they would compare to particular phono in your "reference" system or specific ones you've heard along your journey. If I wasn't currently in the market for a phono amp, I would enjoy your review as is, but since I am in the market for one and can't audition every phono amp, I naturally wonder how the Chord compares to models in its price range, lower and higher, perhaps not in totality(Model A is better than Model B) but within each axis of differentiation (ie instrument separation is better in Model A vs. Model B). In general I find you have a wealth of comparative knowledge that I wish I could get to see/hear more of in your reviews . Perhaps I need to read your written reviews.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

By all means read the reviews, they will provide a broader overview then you will see on this channel. For no other reason than there's more reviews over there and it's possibly easier to compare and contrast via the written word. Give me a shout if you need further help.

[@simsyguitar]

Hi Paul, I need a phono stage for my rega plamar 1. whats the cheapest you'd reccomend? thanks.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Probably the Pro-Ject Phono MM which you can pick up from Amazon for around £65: www.amazon.co.uk/Pro-Ject-Phono-Box-MM-Amplifier-Black/dp/B000YEK1AQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=project+phono+mm&qid=1594137379&sr=8-1

[@simsyguitar]

@@TheAudiophileMan thank you! would this be a better purchase than the planar 1+ with the internal preamp?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Hi Luca - check out my review for an answer to that: theaudiophileman.com/rega-planar-1-plus-turntable-review/

[@simsyguitar]

@@TheAudiophileMan thanks paul 😁

[@StylusDrop]

The user interface is a very stupid design but it would not put me off buying one. You would only need to change the settings when changing cartridge. Don't lose that manual though! Also, colour blind enthusiasts need not apply!

[@tonydeniro284]

I bought it, I think it's unique, unlike any other, and if it sounds anywhere near their symphonic, all the better. I got mine on sale, and so I bought the chord qutest stand to go with it. I love the design of it. Only caveat is no mm capacitance settings only gain an 47 k ohm....I think it is gears to moving coils...you take your pick, lights, dip switches, or a dial...

[@ricochet243]

Belting review, Paul. You’re in a purple patch at the minute and it’s great to see.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Thanks! :)

[@bkkersey93]

Hey man, also review the iPhono3. There are a few reviews on youtube, but their mainly in foreign languages.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Noted.

[@morrisonAV]

Very nicely done, Paul. You'd think that their PR person (or whoever is responsible for sending out review samples) would give you some phonetic help. After all, it IS their product name. Speaking of goofy names, have you ever reviewed the Schiit Mani phono pre? I'd be curious to get your take on it compared to some of the higher end units you've listened to.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Many thanks and yes I have reviewed it - check out the link: theaudiophileman.com/schitt-mani/

[@mikemcguinness1304]

Mmmmm maybe I could partner it with my rega p6! Your thoughts Paul..

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Sure - it's an option.

[@thomasedward2231]

Great review

[@andrewmorgan5795]

Huei the lads. I really enjoyed this video which is saying something as I don’t have a turntable or intend to ever buy one. I sense you enjoyed making it too. I do however have a Chord 2Qute and have the same sort of memory issues about which colour is which. But frankly it doesn’t really matter one jot as it sounds great.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Hehe - and that's the bottom line for you and for me. The sound is there thing. I can handle a lot if the sound is great.

[@classicrock7890]

I Think the interface on Chord is all about style and also useless for DACs as well. Their fancy casework adds a great deal to the price of all their products. Also how does it compare with similar priced competing products?

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Hi - the review focuses on the unit but also draws upon my experience with other competing units. Here, my conclusions are based upon how the Chord fits in the market, as seen at the time of the video. You can also see my reference system in the Description box.

[@sidvicious3129]

This is absolutely ridiculous that Chord would have done this. I agree with you what if you are Color Blind, how do you set this up then? I’m glad they got the sound right.

[@rarknivesandleatherwork8045]

Hmm, over half the review slamming the interface, which you later point out will rarely be touched. Surely, on the fly adjustment is better than tiny little DIP switches on the base, back or even inside the unit. Which, by the way, you'd also need a manual for. I'll be honest, I found the first half of the review as irritating as you found the interface. However, just as you warmed to the Huei because of the sound quality, I warmed to your review when you finally reviewed the sound quality. This was insightful and helpful.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Triggering the emotions of my readers and viewers for good or ill? That's why I'm in this job :) Being ignored is what you have to avoid. ("There is only one thing in life worse than being talked about and that is not being talked about." Oscar Wilde)

[@rarknivesandleatherwork8045]

Ha ha, that's a great response. Yes, I'll give you that.

[@MrNuggin]

Cordial exclusion of the Dalton brothers :)

[@Ceko]

I have the Chord Qutest and I thought thos would match nicely but boy those colours... I’m completely put off.

[@evowhite777]

Hello Paul another informative &(as always)funny review sir,good on you for coming across as being "normal"...ish I like your humour(lol). Your description of Chord`s user interface is spot on & the reason I would never buy Chord. Yes you are correct in saying it`s mainly about how an item sounds but,if I`ve got to ;smack the wife,kick the dog,repeatedly bang my fists & my head against a hard surface just to get it to work the way I want,then "Na" I`m not buying it,there`s plenty at that level that are easier to use & sound just as good if not better(Musical Fidelity MX-VYNL,Musical Surroundings Phonomena II+ MM/MC Phonostage,Dynavector P-75 Mk4,Rega Aria, etc.). I`ll read the Mani review link you posted for someone else now,I`m curious what your opinions are as I use to own one,keep them coming especially on vinyl front ends it`s the way of 2020! #hifi4ever #vinyl4ever

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Thanks for your thoughts ev, very nice of you. Look out for a turntable-based video to be posted later today!

[@wcg66]

Huei-ly cow! Colour blind vinyl enthusiasts please do not apply!

[@TheAudiophileMan]

:)

[@tg6373]

This interface looks like a breeze compared the the Hegel V10, which I detest.

[@scottspinner1]

I read it as hew a

[@TheAudiophileMan]

Ahhh, the joys of language :)

[@Akstergrind]

Wow, that sounds like an utter nightmare to set up!

[@vancouverpingpong]

It’s Huey

[@TheAudiophileMan]

That’s ‘news’ to me.

[@Alamo-cz5xc]

Why do I have to be Mr Pink?

[@markielinhart]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me. A beautiful if quirky looking piece of kit, but it sounds like you need a science degree to operate it...

[@TheAudiophileMan]

You could be right there :)

[@Anacridhaze]

Possibly one of the least aesthetically pleasing electronic devices I have ever seen. It may be built well and perform well but it looks like a poorly conceived child’s toy.

[@SuperSamuelt]

You spent 40% of the video time to complaint the interface while there is less than 1% possibility of don’t have the manual on hand,. You better don’t review this product as you totally off the point.

[@TheAudiophileMan]

You've lost me there, ST. Maybe you can elaborate? To recap, I shouldn't have to have the manual to hand to use the interface in the first place but, even if I do, the manual is confusing and contradictory while the supporting crib-stickers are just as bad. I like the sound though. And that, to me, is all of the point.

[@kobush18]

there is no sense or logic buying records and to mess up with costly gear,there are a lot of limitation to this format like limited dynamics and high noise floor hum and rumble. good turntable with good arm and cartridge can cost thousands of pounds, records (grooves) and cartridge stylus start to wear from the first moment you use them,records start making click noises after some time because of use and dust,the cartridge needle have to be replaced from time to time,and they are not cheap.you also need a good phone stage that also can be expensive. much better to buy a good DAC like denafrips and to have music service like tidal (master) or qobus or spotify hifi. all the money you spent on gear for playing records and the money you spent on records themselves can fund you a lifetime of music services and enjoy the wide variety of records (millions) and songs.

[@thegoldenpanther6986]

You're so extremely negative about vinyl, let me guess, you're a digital fanboy? Vinyl has wonderful sound qualities that digital cannot match. Digital is far, far from a perfect medium and has has problems too. I wonder if you have ever heard a vinyl record on a good turntable? because I don't think you have.

[@kobush18]

@@thegoldenpanther6986 i am over 60 years age old ,i heard and won turntables probably before you were born , I also have Technics sl d202 turntable wich i rarely use , it's not all about sound quality , it's more that records got wildly expensive, also have 4 amplifers including valve amplifer, i probably have more experience in audio than you have , records have many disadvantage, i will not willing to pay the very expensive audiophile records ,it went too far up. I prefer to hear digital like CD and streaming including youtube, can turntable match the experience to have both audio and video in the same time? Vision elevate the enjoyment very much, did you experience to see you favorite singer or band thru valve amplifer , you can hear the 3 dimensionally as well, i bet you didn't experience it , ok i know you tube premium streams 256k ,you loose some audio quality but you gain vision, i also have tidal premium that also have video clips (not as much as KZbin), i get enough quality in digital especially when vision included! You can't replicate vision enjoyment with records that for sure. What you said it's audiophile snobbery ( which i call "audiofools").

[@tonydeniro284]

Yea ok...in you opinion only...analog still rules...

[@kobush18]

@@tonydeniro284 wrong , streaming rules , other formats (cd's records and cassettes ) are only 15 percent of the total sales , records costs 3 times more than cd while containing half the playing time of cd and consume much more space, New records prices are insane , only streaming rules! And sales of cd are still more than records by absolute numbers (not by revenue). You reaction is emotional not logical. I see trend of ditching records to cd because of the insane prices of records. As for used market cds are much chipper than records and the chances to get good playable quality are much greater ,this fact is important too. I have a record player but it is not my main player ,streaming rules for shure endless music in your tip of a finger in excellent quality.

[@highfell1]

You are a digital bot and I claim my prize !