Dummies for This Dummy

[Ex-Newsie]

One more thing, my friends. Is there a book or guide you can recommend to give a former audiophile who strayed an education re: all the modern technology? Y'know...something as easy to digest as a Dummies book or Idiot's Guide?

 

[lovinthehd]

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/consumer-electronics/home-theater.html

 

[Ex-Newsie]

Thanks...but the problem with this book is its publishing date...2008...and the fact no new editions have come out since then. So much new tech in 8 years.

 

[lovinthehd]

Not a lot really. Some new stuff relating to 4k/HDCP if that's something you're aiming at, newer codecs for more immersive sound maybe. What new tech are you thinking about? You've tried the basic setup articles here? http://www.audioholics.com/home-theater-setup

 

[Ex-Newsie]

Yes, I have. I really need a primer that also acts as a glossary. There are plenty of terms and concepts I'm not familiar with. I need a re-edumacation.

 

[highfigh]

Thanks...but the problem with this book is its publishing date...2008...and the fact no new editions have come out since then. So much new tech in 8 years.

That's OK, the words that are supposed to describe a sonic experience aren't much different from that time, so you can still use 'chocolatey mid-range', 'scintillating highs', 'improved pace and timing'. As long as your system completes you, kudos.

 

[j_garcia]

Believe it or not, it actually does exist here

http://www.audioholics.com/frequent-questions/glossary-of-electronics-terms

 

[Ex-Newsie]

Believe it or not, it actually does exist here

http://www.audioholics.com/frequent-questions/glossary-of-electronics-terms

Wow. I owe you a debt of thanks. That's a great start.

 

[rojo]

Wow. I owe you a debt of thanks. That's a great start.

Ex-Newsie is an interesting moniker you've chosen. Have you fallen victim to the decline of print news media? Or are you Roger Ailes? Either way, I bet you have a fascinating backstory.

 

[Ex-Newsie]

30+ years in broadcast journalism as a reporter, investigative reporter, anchor and manager. Retired now and thankful. The industry was sliding down the slippery slope when I left my last gig. It didn't want seasoned, old school journalists like me anymore...and I no longer wanted anything to do with all the infotainment, celebrity sh!t, and pablum masquerading as news. So there you have it.

 

[Swerd]

Ex-newsie, welcome to Audioholics! I can't add anything to the already good suggestions others have made.

Your skepticism learned as a reporter will serve you well in audio. There are lots of dubious claims of superior performance of overpriced products. We love that topic here, so we will be glad to try and answer your questions.

 

[Ex-Newsie]

Thanx, Swerd. I think you and your cohorts should contact the Dummies and Idiot's Guide folks and propose a new, comprehensive guide to either home audio or home theater. I'd buy it the day it comes out.

 

[Swerd]

Thanx, Swerd. I think you and your cohorts should contact the Dummies and Idiot's Guide folks and propose a new, comprehensive guide to either home audio or home theater. I'd buy it the day it comes out.

That sounds like way too much work .

A much simpler approach is this: The Top 10 Things where spending more money translates into audible improvements.

1. Speakers
2. Speakers
3. Speakers
4. Speakers
5. Speakers
6. Speakers
7. Speakers (I'm being conservative stopping at 7th)
   
8. Quality of musical recording or other sources
   
9. Room acoustic effects
   
10. Amplifier power

Note how I avoided mention of DACs, preamps, other electronics, or cables of any kind.

 

[Diesel57]

The knowledge in this forum is refreshing and very informative, while being educated in one of the most important areas that we all share is how & what to invest our money in or on and not being taken by some sales reps and companies...THANKS TO ALL

 

[rojo]

30+ years in broadcast journalism as a reporter, investigative reporter, anchor and manager. Retired now and thankful. The industry was sliding down the slippery slope when I left my last gig. It didn't want seasoned, old school journalists like me anymore...and I no longer wanted anything to do with all the infotainment, celebrity sh!t, and pablum masquerading as news. So there you have it.

Related:

 

[Ex-Newsie]

Related:

Watched it a week ago. Brilliant and on point.

 

[Pogre]

Believe it or not, it actually does exist here

http://www.audioholics.com/frequent-questions/glossary-of-electronics-terms

wow. that is really comprehensive. I'm reading through that whole list. clears up some questions for me too.

 

[j_garcia]

wow. that is really comprehensive. I'm reading through that whole list. clears up some questions for me too.

AH = source of lots of good info.

 

[shadyJ]

AH = source of lots of good info.

The AV Research section of audioholics really is a goldmine for anyone interested in high-fidelity audio. One of the best resources on the internet, and probably my favorite part of the site.

 

[Diesel57]

WATCH OUT SALES PEOPLE, 101 made simple...