You Can DIY! Build the Mojo Maestro

Ethan Winer explains how to "Build the Mojo Maestro," a simple device that allows "subtle distortion" or saturation from any recording or track. Just using two diodes and a few resistors, Winer designed this simple box using the free LTspice simulation software and only half a dozen parts. And the results can be heard on the audioXpress website, with Winer playing multiple instruments, with and without the "Mojo effect." This article was originally published in audioXpress, October 2017.

audioXpress October 2017 brings another strong combination of inside perspective, educational value, and practical projects. In this edition, Christopher Paul explains his Denali Voltage Reference low impedance amplifier design, Stuart Yaniger does a full objective review of the surprising Markaudio-Sota Viotti speakers, we explain how Harman is using COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software on car audio, Richard Honeycutt explains the story of the Circlotron amplifiers and so much more...

Following his original 2008 essay on sound pressure level (SPL) meters, in this article for audioXpress published in March 2015, Ethan Winer considers some practical applications for a basic SPL meter, such as calibrating loudspeaker levels and measuring room acoustics, using a simple Galaxy Audio CM-130 SPL Meter as an example. He then moves on to a more sophisticated model, the NTi Audio XL2.

The August 2017 edition of audioXpress is now ready to download and on its way to print subscribers. Our Acoustics in Focus issue includes a round-up of First-Approach Acoustic Solutions, we highlight how JOCAVI Acoustic Shells enhance stage sound, and feature great articles by acoustic experts Jim DeGrandis, Ethan Winer, John Calder, and our own columnist Richard Honeycutt. Also in this issue, read our Munich High End 2017 report and reviews of the Celemony Melodyne 4 software and Primacoustic Recoil Stabilizers.

For our March 2015 edition, we have selected a series of articles dedicated to Test & Measurement, both from a practical and a DIY perspective. First is Ethan Winer’s (re)take on Practical Applications for SPL Meters, followed by an historical recap from Voice Coil magazine editor Vance Dickason, on his reputed Test Bench process used to characterize drivers. We also discuss Headphone Testing issues among other things.

Another great edition of audioXpress is now available online and in print. There’s an exciting double review of OPPO Digital’s new PM-1 Planar Magnetic Headphones and the new HA-1 Headphone Amplifier. We also examine Powersoft Audio’s amplifier technologies and we explore the immersive challenge on Cinema Sound.