"Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Audio Electronics" Answers Podcast! (pt. 1) June 11, 2012 11:13 9 Comments

Last week, I put out the call for you to ask "Everything you always wanted to know about audio electronics, but were afraid to ask." The response was awesome, and a tad overwhelming: almost 50 questions! I want to sincerely thank all of you who posed questions, we got some great stuff. On Saturday our volunteer expert, Duncan Gray, joined me to answer your questions podcast style.

Download the MP3 file or subscribe via iTunes

Here's what we covered in chronological order:

  • How Duncan got into audio electronics (as usual, it involved breaking something)
  • Circuit talk:
    • What does class-A mean? Why is it desirable?
    • How do I measure the total current draw of modules in a 51x rack?
    • How do I choose the right power supply for a given DIY project?
    • What's the difference between an LC and RC filter?
    • What happens to the Q, or bandwidth, in a swinging input EQ topology?
    • What's the simplest way electronically to make a noise?
    • Why do parts of a circuit go to ground?
    • How should I ground inside the box?
    • What is star grounding?
  • Coloration talk:
    • Is there really a difference between NOS and new transistors?
    • How do you know if a device needs recapping?
    • Discrete vs. monolithic opamps?
    • How close can we get to replicating vintage gear?
    • What does a good preamp do that I can't just do in post production?
  • How do I get my foot in the door doing audio design?
  • The incredible learning resources at HyperPhysics
Again, many thanks to Duncan and those who asked questions. Stay tuned for pt. 2, when we'll talk about troubleshooting, safety, reference levels, and impedance.