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For those who don’t know, I run the channel 123Toid on YouTube. I am curious what have you liked and disliked. I really want the channel to grow and provide content that you enjoy. If there is anything you think could be improved on, I am always willing to hear suggestions. If there are videos you absolutely hated. Feel free to me and why. Same if there are some you really liked. I appreciate the feedback.
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I enjoy any of your videos on speaker reviews or builds. I also like anything on mini amplifiers and boards. Anything on subs is good. The poly fill one was good and the one you did on the Dayton classic 8 with 2 passive radiators come to mind.
There seems to be a lot of videos on um 18 but hardly any at all on the ho 18 or really any of the smaller Dayton subs. Maybe a less popular brand like Eminence lab c 12 one of the peerless wavecor or the hsu buy out subs p.e. started carrying would be interesting to me anyway.
I’d love to see someone do a good video on horn enclosures. A how to design why someone might consider this type of project advantages disadvantages etc. Seems to be plenty on t-lines but hardly any on folded or tapped.
Maybe a video on some of the higher power mini amp boards.Seen plenty on the lower powered boards but haven’t ran into any on ones that do well over 100 watts.
A video on what different types of wood you can use to build an enclosure with advantages disadvantages etc. If you haven’t already.
I can’t say I haven’t enjoyed any of the videos you’ve done… -
Thank you. I appreciate the thoughtful comments. I will definitely check those out. I had been thinking of doing the wood one for a while. And I had no idea they bought out some Hsu subwoofer drivers. Those would be killer to get in. I would like to do some more subwoofer builds. I’ll have to get on that. I hadn’t put too much thought past the IcePower boards, but maybe I should. I was thinking about doing a 3 channel 500w or 1000w for my front soundstage in the theater room. So I would probably do a video on that as well. You have given me a lot to think about. I appreciate it.
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For those who don’t know, I run the channel 123Toid on YouTube. I am curious what have you liked and disliked. I really want the channel to grow and provide content that you enjoy. If there is anything you think could be improved on, I am always willing to hear suggestions. If there are videos you absolutely hated. Feel free to me and why. Same if there are some you really liked. I appreciate the feedback.
I really liked your latest video, on whole home audio. More of that, with explanations of how to set it up and the pros and cons of various systems would be great!
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It doesn’t matter what channel, I absolutely hate reviews. The reason being that your room and listening material contributes so much to your listening experience. It’s pissing in the wind to say that xyz speaker sounds this way or that. I much more appreciate speaker teardowns and measurements to get a basis of how they compare measurement-wise to other speakers and whether the company spec is accurate. My favorite videos are those that get deeper into the esoteric side of speaker building, like breaking down the TS parameters and technically describing different build types as well as their application. Hexibase does a solid job of digging into the technical stuff along with Impulse Audio. Kirby tried but he kinda just skims the surface.
Just to throw some duality, though, I also love Kirby’s simplistic build videos. Aesthetic af and pure build porn. Soundblab is another one who does that but not as pretty as Kirby. So, I’m both ends of the spectrum. Either super technical or just music over build footage.
Oh, and since I’m here…run your audio in your videos through some compression and limiting before exporting. You’re always so quiet.
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Cap,
I appreciate knowing what you like. I am always torn on whether to be more technical or less. And then I end up being somewhere in the middle. I feel like I am trying to teach people, that may not understand the graph. So it is hard to do, unless I explain it every time. I am sure there is an easier fix than I am thinking of. But I think you are right, more technical would be nice. I have been considering adding a list of my favorite drivers each with some testing information so people can see why I prefer them. Interesting some of them that I like more don’t always measure “the best.” I have been trying to add more of that with amplifiers and testing their frequency response, but I need some other equipment to test true wattage and distortion. If you know of some good test equipment, I would love to know.
I have also considered doing more tests of audio myths. Not that they are myths, but just stuff people always say. Such as do people really prefer flat frequency response? You’ve already hit on that in another post. Or are ported subwoofers really less musical than sealed. Things like that.
As far as the audio goes. I appreciate what your saying…and I also have no idea how to do that with the program I am using. I am always up for learning though. Especially from a DJ 😉 I had been considering buying a Tascam DR 60D since my cameras preamp is terrible. But honestly wasn’t sure if that was the right way to go.
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Cap,
I appreciate knowing what you like. I am always torn on whether to be more technical or less. And then I end up being somewhere in the middle. I feel like I am trying to teach people, that may not understand the graph. So it is hard to do, unless I explain it every time. I am sure there is an easier fix than I am thinking of. But I think you are right, more technical would be nice.
Take a look at most of the reviews out there, right now… Ask yourself what you are seeing and hearing… is it real world information? Or is it more like a cleverly designed sales pitch? I won’t get into naming names (those guys are already mad at me… 😀 ) but I would say that the current ratio is like 10% information, 90% marketing. Seriously… when’s the last time you saw a negative review?
There is a David Duchoveny movie called “The Joneses” that every reviewer should watch before trying to use “Stealth Marketing” to monetize their channel. There is a very real moral lesson for reviewers in that movie.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1285309/ https://rarbg.to/torrent/ae9wp1m
What would I like to see in a review video? Real information… features, specifications, installation, setup… followed by a personal impression that is either positive or negative and totally unafraid to call a piece of crap a piece of crap.
I’ve written quite a few Reviews using these guidelines on Amazon Canada…
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AGHW3L6EAFQOC6AFAHVULVFR4WZA
I’ve always thought that if you’re going to talk to consumers, you should give them the information they need to decide for or against a product. I don’t care if a company dies or some major conglomerate looses money… if they’re selling crap or ripping off their customers they probably shouldn’t be in business to begin with.
If you are worried that people won’t understand… then augment your reviews with a series of videos … “Understanding Frequency Response”, “Damping Factor Explained” etc so that the information is available to your viewers. It’s up to them to look and learn…
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I have been trying to add more of that with amplifiers and testing their frequency response, but I need some other equipment to test true wattage and distortion. If you know of some good test equipment, I would love to know.
As far as the audio goes. I appreciate what your saying…and I also have no idea how to do that with the program I am using. I am always up for learning though. Especially from a DJ 😉 I had been considering buying a <a href=” removed link ” target=”true”>Tascam DR 60D since my cameras preamp is terrible. But honestly wasn’t sure if that was the right way to go.
A channel called Williston Audio Labs regularly tests amps with something called an SMD Amp Dyno and the dude that runs it judges the results against the marketing.
It’s pretty pricey so I hope you got $4k laying around. 😀
As far as your recorded audio in your vids, what program are you using?
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I have been trying to add more of that with amplifiers and testing their frequency response, but I need some other equipment to test true wattage and distortion. If you know of some good test equipment, I would love to know.
As far as the audio goes. I appreciate what your saying…and I also have no idea how to do that with the program I am using. I am always up for learning though. Especially from a DJ 😉 I had been considering buying a <a href=” removed link ” target=”true”>Tascam DR 60D since my cameras preamp is terrible. But honestly wasn’t sure if that was the right way to go.
A channel called Williston Audio Labs regularly tests amps with something called an SMD Amp Dyno and the dude that runs it judges the results against the marketing.
It’s pretty pricey so I hope you got $4k laying around. 😀
As far as your recorded audio in your vids, what program are you using?
The most basic tool for this would be a USB oscilloscope, which is available very cheaply (Like $80 for a good one) … in fact this method can be more accurate than the Amp Dyno if used correctly. Most of the mid-priced units will have FFT functions that will let you run a spectrum analysis. The software for them usually also includes signal generators and other handy tools.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009H4AYII
If you need help with the testing procedures, just let me know…
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I have been trying to add more of that with amplifiers and testing their frequency response, but I need some other equipment to test true wattage and distortion. If you know of some good test equipment, I would love to know.
As far as the audio goes. I appreciate what your saying…and I also have no idea how to do that with the program I am using. I am always up for learning though. Especially from a DJ 😉 I had been considering buying a <a href=” removed link ” target=”true”>Tascam DR 60D since my cameras preamp is terrible. But honestly wasn’t sure if that was the right way to go.
A channel called Williston Audio Labs regularly tests amps with something called an SMD Amp Dyno and the dude that runs it judges the results against the marketing.
It’s pretty pricey so I hope you got $4k laying around. 😀
As far as your recorded audio in your vids, what program are you using?
The most basic tool for this would be a USB oscilloscope, which is available very cheaply (Like $80 for a good one) … in fact this method can be more accurate than the Amp Dyno if used correctly. Most of the mid-priced units will have FFT functions that will let you run a spectrum analysis. The software for them usually also includes signal generators and other handy tools.
<a href=" removed link ” target=”true”> removed link
If you need help with the testing procedures, just let me know…
Is it the test where you run a sine wave through the amp and measure the output from the amp with the oscilloscope until you see the distortion in the wave form?
Cus that’s exactly why I bought an oscilloscope…well, I mean that and school.
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That is one of many…
EDIT: Please note the following applies to single ended amplifiers only. BTL outputs require a somewhat more complex setup.
1) for power … connect an 8 ohm dummy load to the amp’s output… connect the input of the amp to a signal generator and set up a CLL level signal (800 mv/pp) at 1khz, measure the amplifier’s output with your scope, power the amp and adjust it’s output to clip, then back it off just a hair. The Peak voltage should show on the scope (many also have built in voltmeters)… RMS Power == ((Vp x Vp) / 8) x .707
2) For frequency response … using a signal generator set up a fast scan from 1hz to 100khz with the scope in triggered FFT mode. If it has spectrum analysis mode, use that to see the peak voltage as a single line. The scope will display your frequency response curve.
3) For distortion you can set up a null test…. feed the amplifier from the signal generator, in sine wave mode hook one scope probe to the input and one to the output… level balance the signals in the scope… now invert the second channel and add… whatever remains on the display is distortion. %Distortion == Vn / Vp
A little experience with each of these setups and, you’re a testing maven!
Of course if you’re playing with the big boys you’re gonna need a pretty hefty dummy load… at least 100 watts, probably with a cooling fan attached.
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Ok, Nick, here’s a suggestion for a video …
To do this you will need a television set with S-Video inputs (the Three RCA cables) and a source with S-Video outputs.
1) Start out with the TV and Source connected properly with the supplied three RCA cables, showing a standard resolution image.
2) Explain that S-Video picture signals can reach 4.5mhz frequency response.
3) Explain that 4.5mhz is approximately 200 times the bandwidth required of an audio cable. Thus, if an audio cable can pass video at all it is going to be more than good enough for audio use.
4) Now pull off the S-Video cable at both ends and replace the video cable with a known good audio RCA interconnect and note what happens … Most likely: No noticeable effect. On a high capacitance cable you might get some minor loss of focus and a bit of smearing but even at 225 times the required bandwidth the audio cable still passes a usable signal.
5) Follow up with both high end cables and dirt cheap cables (like the ones supplied with new equipment) …. What you will discover is that almost any audio RCA cable whether cheap or high end has the bandwidth needed to pass S-Video … Proof positive, right before our eyes that spending thousands of dollars on interconnect cables is just a total waste of money.
Now, depending on the cables you test with, you are going to make some very interesting discoveries…
a) Many high end cables are only grounded at one end.
b) Some high end cables are not shielded.
c) Some cables with blobs in them use ferrite chokes that actually reduce their bandwidth.
d) Cables made with RF coax will often exhibit ghosting because of bounce back in the cable.
e) And all kinds of other strangeness….
In fact, you will almost certainly discover that many high end cables are not as capable as the ones that came in the box…. Ask why a manufacturer would ship a decent piece of gear with inadequate cables?
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That is a great idea. I’ll have to look into it. I have a few videos and am planning for MWAF right now. Thanks for the idea.
It’s not without precedent …
Here is John Audio Tech running video through audio amps …. https://youtu.be/83_g3t_UmCE
This is video through an audio cable … https://youtu.be/6D6mRd0Eswo … but it should be noted that the resolution used in this video is well beyond the DVD’s SD spec.
We used to mess with S-Video by mis-matching the colours (video through the red wire, etc.) and noting that it made no difference whatsoever….
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As someone who is new to this hobby, I really appreciated some of those early videos you did on wiring and connections, etc. A couple that come to mind are the one where you built the little test amp by enclosing it in the case and then the one where you showed how to wire everything to put in a boombox and the wiring of led lights. The crossover building videos are really good too.
I know some of this stuff is way elementary for a lot of guys but I do believe as your channel grows, there is value there as new people get on board. Another future project might be a lesson in helping people learn to read schematics. I really appreciate all the information and the way it’s presented. It’s been great to watch the progression of your channel and projects.
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That is a good idea. Thank you.
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I wouldn’t mind a deeper look at crossovers. Your original crossover videos are what got me into this level of speaker building so more of that would be great! Maybe more into what exactly different setups accomplish (like Zobels and L-Pads) and also other considerations like phase shifting, harmonics, inductance and impedance etc…
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I would like to see your whole process on how you take the results from REW and how that influences your crossover design.
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I am going to do this for you Richard. It might have to wait until after the move. But I will do a build from beginning to end to show what goes into the process. Thanks for the great input.
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I have a few on the list. I’ll try to get out. I did recently do one on different ways to attenuate a tweeter. Not sure if you saw it, but it might help with the Lpad.
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If you are worried that people won’t understand… then augment your reviews with a series of videos … “Understanding Frequency Response”, “Damping Factor Explained” etc so that the information is available to your viewers. It’s up to them to look and learn…
I was going to recommend this myself. I like how you go down the middle at times, but most of the time I’m just lost. Yes I could go do research to get more in depth, but sometimes I wish you would. So I’m suggesting making tutorial videos that go in depth with each step of the design and testing, then reference those in your description on other videos. I don’t recommend going on depth for every video, or even for several videos in a row. You need to stay in the middle or less to keep views, but start throwing tutorials in there time to time.
Secondly, for a quick easy video to make. You could do a review and comparison on past projects. Best budget build, most enjoyable build, best quality build. Stick to home theater or bookshelf speakers for the review unless there’s another style you really enjoyed.
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Secondly, for a quick easy video to make. You could do a review and comparison on past projects. Best budget build, most enjoyable build, best quality build. Stick to home theater or bookshelf speakers for the review unless there’s another style you really enjoyed.
Thanks for the great ideas. THis is happening. I am planning on starting to create a list of my favorite drivers as well. That way people can see some of my favorite tweeters, subs, woofers, etc.
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I have seen that one and it was very informative and helpful. I guess the two parts (there are a lot more) I don’t know much about in terms of speaker and crossover design is impedance and phase shift.
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I understand what you are talking about with phase shift, but what would you like to know about impedance? What impedance should you shoot for? What crossover parts affect impedance? Is there a right or wrong impedance?
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Impedance does not affect the frequency response of a speaker. It does affect the watts of power needed from the amplifier for a specific voltage.
The only time impedance affects frequency response is when a speaker is driven by an amp with a high output impedance such as a tube amp. I was actually just reading about that this morning from Toole’s book. Basically, the high output impedance of a tube amp plus the impedance of the speaker wire act as one side of a voltage divider against the speaker impedance causing small peaks in the frequency response at the speaker’s impedance peaks. Where the impedance is at a normal level, the high resistance from the amplifier output impedance and speaker wire compared to the small resistance from the speaker impedance, you get a voltage divider that reduces the voltage (and loudness) of the speaker across most of the frequency range. Where the speaker’s impedance is high, the higher resistance results in less voltage drop at those peaks causing the speaker to play louder at those frequencies.
Of note, solid state amplifiers have very low output impedance and do not exhibit this behavior. They will drive your speakers with consistent voltage at all frequencies.
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This is a good point. Typically tube amplifiers like a very linear impedance. A lot of my speakers that I design, the impedance rises significantly post crossover. These would not be speakers I would recommend to run on a tube amp. They just wouldn’t sound very good. However, they sound great on any other amplifier. 😀
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I have been thinking of doing one on staining. I should do one. I have learned a ton on it. And the Baltic Birch would be nice since you can get some in flat packs.
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Hello there,
A selection of your favourite speaker drivers (tweeters and woofers if you can, not just subs). I think it would be a very useful and fun video. What you like/don’t like about each driver.
I love your channel by the way, I was directed to it from one of Kirby Meets Audio’s speaker design videos. I have learned all I need to create a set of super responsive and flat satellite speakers that reach (mostly) flatly down to 80Hz. I’ve designed it so it has a sealed enclosure as I wanted accuracy over SPL.
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That would be nice. Baltic birch is tough to stain, it can turn out blotchy. I’ve had recommendation to use gel stain. However, I’ve had good luck with shellac on BB, and you can buy shellac in different shades.
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Hello again,
I just realised something that is missing throughout youtube. No one has done a video on how to pick crossover parts to buy and the differences between different types; i.e. electrolytic capacitors vs other ones and so on.
I just thought it would be a perfect finisher to your crossover series. I think that is the only thing missing from being able to design a crossover from start to finish.
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I’m thinking of adding a new series to my channel. We all build electronics and speakers for a variety of reasons. For me, my love started from movies. I love surround sound and of course movies. I’ve recently been able to get my hands on movies around a week before they come out on Blu-ray. I’m thinking of doing a weekly mini review of 1 movie that will come out that week. I’ll mainly focus on the sound quality and if it was a movie that was fun to watch in surround sound. I’ll also tell you if I enjoyed it, and if I think it’s worth renting or buying. Or if it’s worth adding to your demo library. And of course I’ll point out any specific scenes. Thoughts?
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Sorry about the late reply, I went on a trip. That sounds absolutely amazing. I can’t imagine there would be many reviewers of movies that concentrate on an audiophile perspective. I feel it would be filling a very good niche target audience but it would work because there isn’t any good content for these types of reviews. As well as normal surround sound, verifying how well the Dolby atmos function of a film worked (was it used throughout the film/or just one scene?). I think it sounds like a great idea
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