Review
Audio Reality is the title of a new book encouraging "hands-on" audio by DIY author and tube gear manufacturer Bruce Rozenblit of Transcendent Sound. Pitched at a level that is comprehensible to the intelligent novice, Audio Reality seeks to furnish the reader with a solid theoretical understanding of the fundamentals of audio technology. Writing in a refreshingly "curmudgeonly cheapskate" persona, the author attempts to explain the scientific facts that underlie and sometimes contradict the hearsay and mythologies of high-end audio. Although produced by a commercial manufacturer, the advantage of building your own is a subtext that runs throughout the book and Bruce wants to help equip the reader to take on that rewarding challenge. He tops off his presentation with complete schematics for some of his unconventional designs, including his complete product line! By Joe Roberts of Sound Practices magazine. -- Publisher Comments
Product Description
Written by an industry insider and manufacturer, this book gives the consumer essential knowledge about the workings and operations of the vast array of accessories and components available in the marketplace. By providing the scientific basis for how they work, the reader is equipped with the knowledge needed to weed out false claims and make economical, low-cost purchases. Emphasis is on spending as little as possible to encourage people to become involved with audio. All explanations use simple analogies and are easy for the novice to understand. No math is required. Fundamental electronics theory is presented in a comprehensible fashion and written specifically for the non-technical reader. In addition, common marketing practices are shown so the consumer can recognize unscrupulous sales tactics. Many widely held myths are debunked.
In the second half of the book, the author demonstrates the innovation and superiority of his products by publishing all of his designs. Complete schematics, parts lists, circuit descriptions, and checkout procedures are included. The hobbyist can build six high-end commercial audio products as follows: The Transcendent OTL in both 80W and 25W versions, the Grounded Grid preamp, the Super Compact 150W amp, the Cathode Follower Single-Ended amp and a new phono stage. All design techniques are revealed. Nothing is held back.
