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This is by far the most professional and enjoyable podcast about audio equipment. I look forward to its monthly releases to hear two knowledgable gents discuss various topics in the audio world including music (just enough - it's mostly about equipment), equipment, streaming in the digital age, the vinyl & cassette "comeback", and other topics. I always come away learning something new such as using a quality streamer is going to be better than most computers (this is also covered in Darko's YouTube channel) or that even with Vinyl making a comeback it isn't necessarily about sound quality but the tactile feeling of owning something. They are dead on with most of their statements and recommendations as well as their observations about the audio world, such as audio stores and shows demonstrating the same old music on everything - where's the Snoop Dog?! I actually walked into my local hifi store to test out some speakers and headphones and the only music I could select was classic rock and Diana Krall (ugh). It actually bothered me after listening to their podcast once they pointed this out - thanks guys. The podcasts have also gotten better each time as Jeff and John have gotten more comfortable with the format and the latest episode was the best. They each represent different parts of the world and can each give a different, unique perspective on the state of hifi in the world. They like to challenge typical audiophile thinking as well with their takes. The humor is also pretty good - I can certainly fall into the category of cranky (not old) white guy but I can also laugh at their jokes about how the audio world shouldn't just revolve around us. Seriously great podcast and look forward to future episodes. If you are into audio then give it a listen - you won't be disappointed.
There is only one con - they haven't released it on Vinyl yet. C'mon guys - stop being lazy and get on this already - your lossy podcast is ruining my system everytime I stream it... /s
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John Darko, and his pals Michael Lavorgna et al., are the most enjoyable, informative audio critics I’ve found. Intelligent, informative, funny, insightful and not at all pedantic or ponderous. Darko’s special guests are fantastic, first-rate pros, and the host’s questions are relevant and poignant to pros and laypeople alike. The show is like you’re hanging out with people you wish were your friends, with a beverage of your choice, and just listening to them talk about a subject you love.
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I enjoy listening to Darko Audio not because I agree with everything John & Jeff say.
Actually, some of their conclusions I disagree with whole heartedly (NWA's "Staright Out of Compton" was NOT the Sgt. Pepper of Hip Hop. Please listen to De La Soul's "Stakes is High". Immediately).
I listen to Darko Audio because, unlike many other audiophile/home audio podcasts, John & Jeff persistently remind me what's most important about this hobby - enjoying the music.
Over the years, I think I lost that simple idea. I think I focused too heavily on the gear, the latest format, etc.
Darko Audio reminds me that if a person is spending more time looking for new gear than listening to new music, then you're doing it wrong.
Great podcast. Keep up the good work...
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Long time reader/listener/viewer of Darko reviews, every since I bought an Audio-GD Fun DAC in 2011. His views are always refreshing amongst those others that seem more focused on the sponsors. In fact, I was recently up in Portland for my Bachelor Party Weekend and stopped in at Campfire Audio to check out the Comets that were recently reviewed, and I ended up buying a pair right there...they sound great for a pair of IEMS to take with me anywhere, straight out of an iPhone. One thing about Episode 9 that was quite true was how the level of hobbyism that this and other activities can make people push the realms in search of that nirvana moment. I see it a lot with cyclists especially (as I can imagine with the other hobbys Jeff mentions). As you note, it's important to focus on what's important to each of us without loosing focus on the music nor insulting other people's tastes. Within the audiophile world, Darko's reviews help to at least focus where we can drive some of that attention. Keep it up guys!
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Love the different perspectives both hosts bring to the table but lowering my rating to one star due to the annoying beeping in the background that's started a couple episodes ago. Plus thesound quality on Jeff’s side of the conversation has always been bad. Ironic as the topic is audio hifi!
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