(Apologies if this is in the wrong section, it didn't seem to fit anywhere else)!
I'm quite interested in subscribing to a UK (and/or imported) audio hardware/technology magazine, but I've been put off by the snake-oil solutions many of them seem to espouse. As an example, I was recently searching for reviews on speakers, and I came across this in the UK's 'What Hi-Fi' magazine. It's hard to believe it's a review of an
optical S/PDIF cable...
Link (http://www.whathifi.com/Review/True-Colours-Industries-Coral/):
Simply, it delivers more detail, more punch and more poise than any rival in this price class. Basslines are easier to track and easier to embrace, while voices have character and proper presence in the room. In short, it's a true all-rounder – and a worthy winner here.
I naively assumed that this A/V magazine, perhaps the most widely circulated of its genre in the UK, would have more checks on content. I'm aware of 'Stereophile' too, which seems even worse...!
Does anyone know of any sensible publications in this genre? Perhaps some blogs, too? I liked the style and objectivity of the Audio Critic (http://theaudiocritic.com/cwo/Web_Zine/), but that's now a web-zine which is rarely updated.
Any suggestions/discussion/thoughts are appreciated.
Does anyone know of any sensible publications in this genre? Perhaps some blogs, too? I liked the style and objectivity of the Audio Critic (http://theaudiocritic.com/cwo/Web_Zine/), but that's now a web-zine which is rarely updated.
Any suggestions/discussion/thoughts are appreciated.
The simple answer is no. There is no business case for a regular publication that is objective about the technical performance of home audio products. Many modestly priced consumer products are good enough to be audibly neutral and any home audio publication that wants to earn a living by providing a vehicle for the industry to advertise has got to avoid putting this message across.
A question for you: what do you want to gain by regularly subscribing to a magazine like What Hi-Fi?