Audio

We tested six headphones before and after 200 hours of burn-in, measuring frequency response, distortion, and impedance. Here is what changed.

Wired earbuds are having an unexpected resurgence. We investigated the trend with sales data, sound quality comparisons, and interviews with audio engineers.

What each Bluetooth audio codec does, how they compare on latency and quality, and which ones your devices actually support.

How to build a whole-home audio system using wireless platforms like Sonos, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, or a custom approach — covering latency, grouping, sound quality, and cost.

What to look for in a first turntable, how to set it up, and common mistakes that ruin the sound. Based on testing 12 models under $500.

A direct comparison of soundbars and bookshelf speaker setups for home theater: sound quality, room placement, ease of setup, and cost at every budget tier.

Active noise cancellation has improved more in the last two years than in the previous ten. We tested 18 over-ear headphones in real-world conditions —…

We put seven common noise-canceling headphone claims to the test with calibrated microphones and controlled sound environments. Several popular beliefs are wrong.

We measured the actual audio quality of vinyl, CD, and streaming at various bitrates. The results challenge audiophile orthodoxy.

Over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, true wireless, bone conduction — the headphone market has fragmented into dozens of form factors. After testing 100+ models…

A detailed comparison of open-back and closed-back headphone designs covering sound quality, isolation, comfort, and which scenarios suit each type.

A plain-language guide to digital-to-analog converters: what they do, why they matter for audio quality, and when upgrading your DAC makes an audible difference.

A step-by-step guide to choosing, connecting, and calibrating a turntable system including phono preamp, speakers, cables, and tracking force setup.

A detailed guide to cleaning vinyl records — from basic brush maintenance to wet cleaning and ultrasonic machines, with clear guidance on what actually removes groove contamination and what risks damage.

A practical guide to phono cartridge upgrades: stylus types, alignment, tracking force, and how a $150 cartridge can transform a mid-range turntable.

The two best earbuds in the world serve different users. We tested both side-by-side for six weeks and measured every metric that matters. Sony wins on…

You don't need to spend $350 for good headphones. We tested 20 models under $75 and found that noise cancellation at this price is real — not as good as…

A practical guide to speaker wire — what gauge actually matters, when banana plugs are worth the cost, how to run wire cleanly, and the point at which cable upgrades stop making audible differences.

We've tested 64 pairs of wireless earbuds over three years. The category has matured: noise cancellation is standard, battery life is adequate…

Running earbuds fail in ways that living-room testing will never catch. Sweat corrodes drivers. Impact loosens fit. Wind noise drowns out calls. We ran…

We played the same 40 tracks through 22 Bluetooth speakers, measuring frequency response, maximum undistorted volume, and stereo imaging. Most portable…

After three months of daily use, the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds have maintained their position as our #1 pick. We've updated our review with long-term…

Travel earbuds need three things: ANC strong enough for airplane engines, comfort for 8+ hour flights, and a case that fits in a jacket pocket. We tested…

TV speakers are bad and getting worse as panels get thinner. We tested 14 soundbars from $100 to $1,200 with movies, music, and dialogue-heavy shows.…