Skylabs Vintage Audio Podcast

In this episode, Kevin goes over some major ideas he was wrong about. Live and learn. There are aspects of vintage audio that he has changed his mind about over the years. Both through experience in owning a vintage stereo shop and advances in technology, Kevin has done a complete 180 on his opinion of over the last few years. What are they? You'll have to listen to the podcast! Kevin goes over his new thoughts on audio cables, digital music, Radio Shack, and vintage turntables. We all grow and learn as we gain more experiences in life. Let us know some Vintage hi-fi opinions that have changed for you. We love reading the comments. Please, as always, keep it friendly. These are still just opinions. Enjoy! Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop Good news for our international viewers! You can now order a few of our items on our eBay store. Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/5fs7wmke Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfkefBAR_BBXW_2z37-ozuw/join Join our Discord. It's free! https://discord.gg/aarHd3tXd5 We just started a Patreon page. You can check that out here: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=79064906 We should have our first Patreon video up later this week! ___________________________________________ Some product links below are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Grado Phono Cartridges, Record Cleaner, and more- available at https://skylabsaudio.com/shop/ Speaker wire Voltive 14/2 Speaker Wire https://amzn.to/3vNPdCa RCA cables Audiophile 2RCA Male to 2RCA Male Stereo Audio Cable,Gold Plated | 4N Oxgen-Free Copper Core (3 Feet (1M)) https://amzn.to/3Jlm4RV

In this episode, Kevin answers the most asked question he gets at the shop, "How much is it worth?". People bring in their vintage pieces all the time asking what we would pay for them, or where they can sell it to get the most money without getting ripped off. Kevin goes over the pros and cons of selling on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and specialty second-hand stores like Skylabs. Are you thinking of selling a vintage stereo that you no longer need or that is taking up too much space? You have come to the right place! Find out how you can get the most for your gear. Find out if you are asking too much for it, or why your Pioneer receiver is sitting on eBay without any bids. Do you need to sell it at a lower price just to get it out of the house? There are positives and negatives to all of the methods. It all depends on YOU. Let us know your experience in selling your stuff. Have you been scammed? Did you get as much for your speakers as you wanted? Enjoy! Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

In this episode, Kevin goes over the stereo or hi-fi systems that changed his life. From a Jukebox to car audio to a cheap 80s stereo and beyond. Take a look into Kevin's history in audio and find out what led him to what he's up to today. We are sure you have a piece of hi-fi history that started you off and changed your life forever. What were they? We'd love to read some of the stories behind how your passion for this hobby started. Let us know in the comments! Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop Good news for our international viewers! You can now order a few of our items on our eBay store. Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/5fs7wmke Join our Discord. It's free! / discord

In this week's episode, Kevin goes over all you need to know so you are not intimidated when you are looking to buy your first turntable. It's a big step and can be a confusing experience. Learn the difference between belt and direct-drive turntables. Should I get a Crosley? Is it a needle or a stylus? What is a cartridge? Is operating a turntable difficult? Looking for the easiest way to get started spinning vinyl and sound like you know what you're talking about? What to look for when shopping online? Shop with confidence! Enjoy! Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop Join our Discord. It's free! https://discord.gg/aarHd3tXd5

In this week's episode, Kevin lets you in on a little secret. With vintage Japanese stereo components from the 70s like Pioneer, Sansei, Yamaha, and Marantz fetching astronomical prices these days, Kevin goes over some surprising prices on vintage McIntosh gear. McIntosh Laboratory is an American manufacturer of handcrafted high-end audio equipment headquartered in Binghamton, New York. The company was co-founded in 1949 by Frank H. McIntosh & Gordon Gow. McIntosh Labs designs and produces audio amplifiers, stereo tuners, loudspeakers, turntables, music streamers, processors, and various other audio products. Although solid-state components are a large segment of the McIntosh line, audio enthusiasts most revere the warm sound of the company's tube amplifiers. Some of their tube amplifiers rank among the finest ever created for home audio and theater use. Let us know in the comments if you have found any bargains in the McIntosh world. Enjoy! _________________________________________________________ New Discord channel! Join the conversation! / discord Good news for our international viewers! You can now order a few of our items on our eBay store. Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/5fs7wmke Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

In this week's video, Kevin goes over some do's and don'ts when you need to take your vintage equipment in for service. Know what to say, and not to say, so you and your tech are on the same page. It could save you time AND money. If you're dealing with a vintage audio tech for the first time, Kevin lets you know what to expect. How long the repair could take, and why. Your best strategy before you even bring it in. All that and much more. Let us know your experience in getting vintage audio repaired. Maybe your story will help someone else! Enjoy! _________________________________________________________ Good news for our international viewers! You can now order a few of our items on our eBay store. Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/5fs7wmke Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

In this week's video, Kevin goes over the most wanted pieces of vintage audio that we get from our customers, from receivers to speakers. Did any of your most desired vintage stereo items make the list? Good news for our international viewers! You can now order a few of our items on our eBay store. Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/5fs7wmke _________________________________________________________ Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records, and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

In this video, Kevin gets into the nitty gritty of owning a vintage stereo store in 2024. You will hear the good, the bad, and the ugly. Ever wonder if you'd like to start a business in vintage stereo, or start a business that revolves around your passion? It may just be the best job in the world! It also may not be all it's cracked up to be. We think you will really enjoy this week's video. Let us know your thoughts and comments below. Also, please subscribe, like, and share! It really helps our channel continue to grow. It's gonna be a fun one! _______________________________________ Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

Looking for an inexpensive amplifier with good sound and plenty of inputs? The Nobsound B100 might be just right for that small office system you've always wanted or it makes a great gift that looks awesome and won't break the bank! In this video, Kevin goes over our experience putting this little "tube" amplifier through the paces. We try it on a wide variety of vintage and new speakers. We even have some of our customers sit down and compare it with some pretty heavy hitters. We were surprised at some of our findings. Watch this week's video and find out our final verdict. It's gonna be another fun one! __________________________________________________ Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission. We have owned and used every product we recommend Nobsound B100: https://amzn.to/3ujwFIO Nobsoound B100 Replacement Tubes: https://amzn.to/3MM9QnA Recommended Subwoofers with high-level speaker inputs: $100 6” Acoustic Audio (with speaker level) https://amzn.to/3d0YVaR Recommended Bookshelf Speakers: Klipsch B100 bookshelf speakers https://amzn.to/3xk9dd6 Elac Debut 2.0 speakers https://amzn.to/3LeI4y4 Recommended Turntables: Audio Technica LP60 Great entry-level “fully automatic” turntable for under $150 https://amzn.to/3eAPC1B U-turn Orbit Plus- Skylabs favorite new turntable with a 3 year warranty for under $350 https://amzn.to/3delM2H Recommended Phono Cartridges: Grado 3 series- Made in Brooklyn NY since 1953 https://amzn.to/3L9t8B7 Ortofon 2M Blue https://amzn.to/3d9fBNw Recommended Phono Preamps: U-turn Pluto- awesome little preamp for under $100 https://amzn.to/3RHm01k Kinter Phono Preamp https://amzn.to/3T1sZCm

In this video, Kevin shares his thoughts on the top formats for listening to recorded music and his experience of listening to a reel-to-reel copy of Elephant by The White Stripes. He covers various formats, including hi-res streaming and audiophile record pressings, before finally dipping his toes into the world of brand-new reel-to-reel tapes from Analogue Productions. However, preparing his vintage Teac A-3300SX reel-to-reel tape deck required the help of experts in the field. But it was all worth the time and effort as he finally got to listen to one of his favorite albums on the Ultra Tape reel-to-reel copy. If you're looking for the best format to listen to your favorite music, this video is a must-watch. Kevin's insights and experience will help you make an informed decision. Don't forget to hit the like button and share the video with your friends. Here are the links listed or mentioned in the video: https://www.woodsongaudio.com https://www.jrfmagnetics.com https://travissav.com https://store.acousticsounds.com https://thirdmanrecords.com _______________________________________ Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

Introducing the ultimate guide to upgrading your turntable game! Join us as we explore some tips for enhancing your vinyl record playback experience. Whether you’re looking to level up from a Crosley Cruiser or want to try something new, Kevin has got you covered. With years of experience in the vintage and new turntable world, Kevin shares some sound advice to help you make the next step up in quality vinyl record playback. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your turntable game to the next level! _______________________________________ https://skylabsaudio.com/shop Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission. We have owned and used every product we recommend Recommended Turntables: Audio Technica LP60 Great entry-level “fully automatic” turntable for under $150 https://amzn.to/3eAPC1B Rega Planar 2 Turntable with Premounted Carbon MM Cartridge (Gloss Black) https://amzn.to/3GA8s3R U-turn Orbit Plus- Skylabs favorite new turntable https://amzn.to/3sFtudU Ortofon 2M Black Moving Magnet Cartridge https://amzn.to/3TiuQq0 Best vintage electronics cleaner! Deoxit D-5 - https://amzn.to/3QJHKu5 Join this channel to get access to the perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfkefBAR_BBXW_2z37-ozuw/join Follow us on Instagram https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbkVTVFN1ckVIVFVSQTFtRVZib2RNazhMQ0VLQXxBQ3Jtc0ttck1fWGRiYUhtNzEyb1NVV1JkcHc3dTF4NnRXUU10SFduT2JaQndWc0JUX3QteVkxamR0ZlVYTDRGS2c2LW5pN2llVXJ3Z0xhLWNsUERYa1dqTHFjdWI2QnhnLVcyMFl6N0l0OEdRTTY0VkVxZF9BVQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fskylabsiowa%2F&v=-ASOSxs3s-8 Find us on Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbGlsYzMtZGpFU3RadUN4dG5va21LSWpQMEJzZ3xBQ3Jtc0tteEJmOTB5MklGLUNqMzRjNlUzUU12ZVAzU1dpdzR5WElQcEQ1VVlMWllSeWdndGdvdFA3TjVVaDZqcDl1ZXBOaElIcDNPc05pYXpLZFZCY0JuVDdvN0xXR3BCeUl1LUdCV3ZsQ1lPRV91UGo2Vl9CMA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fskylabsiowa&v=-ASOSxs3s-8

Looking for an affordable vintage stereo system? In this episode, Kevin showcases three different systems consisting of a stereo receiver, turntable, and speakers, all for under $600! He shares insights on what to look for and what to avoid when shopping for these systems. These three systems are sure to please any vintage audio enthusiast. If you're curious about vintage audio but don't want to spend thousands of dollars on a complete setup, this could be a great solution. Even if you already have an impressive modern system, but want a stylish office stereo, this video is worth watching. Kevin also shares some helpful tips he's learned over the years when purchasing stereo components on eBay. These tips can save you money and protect you from being ripped off. So, if you're on the hunt for affordable vintage audio, don't miss this episode! Happy hunting! _______________________________________ https://skylabsaudio.com/shop Shop our store for Skylabs merch, Grado products, WIIM streamers, new vinyl records and more! Free shipping on orders over $99! Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission. We have owned and used every product we recommend Best vintage electronics cleaner! Deoxit D-5 - https://amzn.to/3QJHKu5 Recommended Bookshelf Speakers: Klipsch B100 bookshelf speakers https://amzn.to/3xk9dd6 Elac Debut 2.0 speakers https://amzn.to/3LeI4y4 Recommended Turntables: Audio Technica LP60 Great entry-level “fully automatic” turntable for under $150 https://amzn.to/3eAPC1B U-turn Orbit Plus- Skylabs favorite new turntable https://amzn.to/3sFtudU

Here are links to some of the products we went over in the video. Wiim Pro- https://skylabsaudio.com/product/wiim... Grado Headphones https://skylabsaudio.com/product/grad... Records: UHQR https://store.acousticsounds.com/ MoFi https://amzn.to/40MWdtN Beatles https://amzn.to/3SNyIPi Turntables: LP60 with speakers https://amzn.to/3RbG1z2 LP60 $149 https://amzn.to/3QN3i9p https://amzn.to/47E3mj3 U-turn turntable https://amzn.to/47oRNMa Speakers: Edifier Powered speakers https://amzn.to/3RbH56m Accessories: Custom Slipmats https://www.etsy.com/shop/SnappyPrinting Custom Stereo Signs shttps://www.ebay.com/str/audiotagsiowa

Are you thinking of getting some vintage Sansui Hi-Fi equipment? Well, you'll want to check out this video before you end up with something you didn't bargain for! In this episode, Kevin will review some things to look for if you have your heart set on a beautiful Sansui product from the 70s. Are you looking to get a Sansui AU-717? Have you always wanted a cool-looking pair of vintage Sansui speakers? Stop! Watch this one first! We love Sansui, but every company makes mistakes- yes even McIntosh, Marantz, Pioneer, and the rest.

Kevin talks about our favorite Sansui receivers from the golden era. Hope you enjoy this one from our archives. If you want to see out latest video on Acoustic Sounds with Chad Kassem, check out our YouTube channel. You don't want to miss this one. It makes a way better video than a podcast. Thanks!

Here are the questions that were answered: 1. PART 1 - Online there has always been debate on what is the best slipmat material for turntables, in your opinion and does it matter as much as people say it does? PART 2 - Also, why is running A AND B speakers together looked down upon by audiophiles? PART 3 - Oh and why do so many sellers say “works as it should” instead of just “works”? Seems a bit shady to me. 2. …I guess maybe I'd like to hear your thoughts on putting together a system and if you prefer sticking to a brand or color or think it's better to mix and match? 3. I'm a fan of old school receivers, be it two channel or quad, what are any advantages to having an integrated amp over the aforementioned receivers? 4. Do class D amplifiers sound different than class AB amplifiers? If so how are they different? Most of the new stuff is coming with class D amplification. I’m new in this field but I’m debating which of amp I should buy. I like rich bass sound. 5. What are your favorite hot mix vinyl pressings? Let us know in the comments what your take is on these questions and answers. These are Kevin's opinions and you may agree or disagree. Remember, it's all just for fun. Enjoy the podcast! Make sure you check out our YouTube page to see the video of these podcasts. Check out our store: https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

There are still bargains out there in the vintage stereo world! Check out some of these lesser know deals in Harman/Kardon. You should check out the the video on our YouTube channel of this episode to see all of the eye candy!Check out our store: https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

This one might be better if you watch it on our YouTube channel. Lots of eye candy on this episode.

As the title says... this one is all about misconceptions. Enjoy!Check out our store: https://skylabsaudio.com/shop

Looking at buying some vintage Pioneer gear? You need to watch out for some issues. In this podcast, Kevin goes over some things to look out for. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we’ll receive a small commission. Amazon WIFI Smart plug https://amzn.to/48wMZW2