Audio Insider, an AXPONA Podcast

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Randy Bingham and Nick Lucini of Rhythm Distribution to explore the extraordinary world of Goldmund and its flagship Telos amplifier lineup. The conversation dives into the full range of Telos amplifiers, from the Telos 800 stereo amplifier with its massive 3200VA transformer all the way up to the statement level Telos 8800, highlighting the engineering philosophy, performance goals, and luxury craftsmanship that define the brand. Randy and Nick share real world listening experiences, including customers comparing the Telos 800 against amplifiers costing several times more and still preferring the Goldmund sound. They also discuss Goldmund's broader ecosystem, including elegant lifestyle speakers, ultra limited statement designs, and fully integrated cinema systems designed entirely in house. The episode also previews the North American show debut of a Goldmund system at AXPONA, where attendees will be able to experience the Swiss brand's meticulous approach to high end audio firsthand.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Jeremy Porter of J Porter Studios to explore his lifelong obsession with hi-fi and the engineering philosophy behind his striking, asymmetrical loudspeakers. Jeremy shares how growing up around his father's hi-fi system led him to study electrical engineering at UT Austin and spend decades refining speaker design. The conversation dives deep into his Baltic birch, multi-angled cabinets built to reduce resonances and diffraction, his folded transmission line architecture that reaches down to 16Hz, and the differences between ceramic and beryllium drivers in the Waterloo and Wellington series. They also discuss active vs. passive designs using Hypex amplification and DSP, the innovative three-way Waterloo Micro with dual opposed subwoofers, and what to expect from the new active Wellington Micro debuting at AXPONA. It's a technical yet passionate look at modern speaker design from a true audio obsessive.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine welcomes Randy and Nick of Rhythm Distribution, the U.S. importers for Luxman, for a deep dive into one of high-end audio's most iconic brands. Randy shares his decades-long journey through hi-fi retail and manufacturing, while Nick details his path from pro audio and recording into the high-end two-channel world. The conversation explores Luxman's 100-year legacy, its meticulous Japanese build quality, and the intentional design philosophy behind its celebrated integrated amplifiers—from the 505 and 507 to the flagship 509—as well as the leap into separates like the M10X and C10X. They also break down new product releases including the D-03R CD player/DAC, P-100 headphone amplifier, and E-07 phono stage, highlighting Luxman's signature balance of honesty, musicality, and emotional connection. Plus, the team teases major upcoming debuts at AXPONA and what the next century holds for the legendary brand.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Stephen Healey of Innuos to trace both a personal and technical journey into high-end streaming audio. Stephen shares how a childhood surrounded by vinyl and classic hi-fi sparked a lifelong passion for music that eventually led him into the industry, before diving deep into the origins and philosophy of Innuos — from its early experiments with music servers in 2009 to becoming one of the most respected names in digital audio. The conversation explores Innuos' full-stack approach to streaming, why software, power supply design, and system efficiency matter just as much as hardware, and how modular streamers, dedicated network switches, and separates can dramatically impact sound quality. They also break down Innuos' current product lineup, explain digital connections and DAC options, and preview the U.S. debut of the flagship Nazare system at AXPONA, offering a clear look at how far high-end streaming has evolved — and where it's headed next.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Lucca Chesky of Chesky Audio, one of the youngest and most compelling new voices in hi-fi today. Lucca shares how growing up surrounded by music and reference-level sound led him to start a loudspeaker company while still in high school, and how that early exposure shaped his design philosophy. The conversation dives deep into Chesky Audio's fully 3D-printed speaker cabinets, why traditional MDF construction limits performance, and how monocoque printing allows for greater control, rigidity, and value at accessible price points. They discuss the rapid success of the LC1, the evolution to the reference-focused LC2, breakout moments at AXPONA, and why thoughtful design, aesthetics, and affordability are key to bringing a new generation into hi-fi. From speaker engineering and manufacturing to the future of 3D printing, home theater, and entry-level audio, this episode explores where high-end sound is headed—and why the future of hi-fi may be younger than anyone expects.

On this episode of the Audio Insider Podcast from AXPONA, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Mike Fajen of Sierra Sound to trace his journey from lifelong musician to one of the most respected voices in high-end analog audio. The conversation dives into Mike's early experiences with vinyl, tape, and recording, why analog listening still matters, and how those values shaped Sierra Sound's mission. They explore reference-level turntable design, tonearm engineering, and what separates truly great analog playback from the rest, with a deep look at AMG turntables and Sierra Sound's growing roster of premium brands. The episode also previews Sierra Sound's AXPONA presence, including multi-turntable all-analog systems, a hands-on "tonearm garden," and the now-legendary Metal Night sessions that challenge what hi-fi demos can be — all centered around one goal: putting music first.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine is joined by returning guest Nick Brown from SVS to talk about the changing landscape of hi-fi, the importance of hands-on audio experiences, and SVS's biggest new product launches. The conversation covers SVS's new 3000 Revolution subwoofer series with flagship-level DSP, increased amplifier power, and upcoming auto-EQ features, as well as a redesigned 3000 Micro that now reaches down to 20 Hz. Nick also reveals SVS's move into the soundbar category with a high-performance, subwoofer-driven system built to deliver true home theater dynamics, immersive sound, and modern connectivity. Beyond products, they dive into why AXPONA matters more than ever, how to bridge the gap between audiophiles and mainstream listeners, the future of intentional listening, and why fun, accessible demos are key to growing the hobby.

Eelco Grim of Grimm Audio joins host Lenny Florentine on the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast for a focused conversation on high end hi-fi and professional audio. Eelco shares his background in audio engineering, the origins of Grimm Audio, and the philosophy behind their approach to clocking, streamers, active loudspeakers, and system integration. The discussion explores how studio level accuracy translates into home listening and why precision, musicality, and long term upgradability are central to everything Grimm Audio builds.

Duncan Taylor, from YG Acoustics, joins host Lenny Florentine on the AXPONA Audio Insider podcast to share his captivating journey into high-end audio—from inheriting the passion through his grandfather's handmade tube amps in the 1940s and early DIY speaker builds, to recording over 150 bands, penning a weekly "Audiophile" column, and immersing himself in thousands of components at PS Audio and The Music Room—culminating in his role at YG for the past three years. He delves into YG's remarkable evolution, highlighting massive investments in precision CNC machining, advanced cloud simulations, and an elite R&D team spearheaded by Dr. Matthew Webster, all dedicated to perfect phase coherence, impeccable power response, and evoking profound emotional responses from music. The conversation spotlights the awe-inspiring Titan flagship from the new Ultimate series—a colossal 1,200-pound-per-side behemoth with symmetrical driver arrays and unmatched engineering prowess—plus valuable tips on room acoustics, the advantages of sealed designs, how accessible models like the Carmel and Cairn encapsulate YG's signature sound, and an enticing preview of their AXPONA showcase featuring SimAudio amplification and top-tier sources. A compelling episode for audiophiles seeking cutting-edge innovation, transparency, and truly immersive listening experiences!

Lenny Florentine sits down with Rich Pinto from Treehaus Audio to talk about the rare intersection of industrial design, old school tube knowledge, and modern execution. Rich shares how his background building Heathkit projects and designing cars at General Motors shaped Treehaus, then walks through his obsession with making gear that looks like it belongs in the living room and sounds even better than it looks. This episode gets into the why behind the wood, the open baffle approach, and the design choices that make Treehaus instantly recognizable. They dive into Treehaus tube electronics built in Connecticut, including multiple 300B amplifier variants, a transformer coupled approach that avoids capacitors in the signal path, and a phono stage built around an LCR style correction scheme. Rich breaks down why low wattage can go further than people think, how tube clipping behaves differently, and why he chases realism over accuracy. Plus, there is a detailed look at Treehaus speakers with live edge baffles and field coil drivers rebuilt from vintage telephone designs, and why that mix delivers speed, nuance, and dynamics even at lower volume levels.

Lenny Florentine sits down with Dan Clark of Dan Clark Audio for a deep dive into the fast growing world of high end headphones. Dan shares his path from childhood hi fi obsession to engineering breakthroughs, explains open back versus closed back designs, and breaks down how science based tuning and acoustic metamaterials are reshaping what headphones can do. If you have ever wondered why some headphones sound natural while others feel boxed in, this conversation makes it click. They also explore flagship models, electrostatic headphones, real world listening habits, and why headphones have become the primary hi fi experience for a younger generation. From gaming and shared living spaces to studio legends hearing serious headphones for the first time, this episode is a clear look at where personal audio is headed and why it matters.

Step inside the legendary Pass Labs garage-lab with Lenny Florentine in this very special episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast. Joined by Nelson Pass and Wayne Colburn, we go behind the scenes of one of high-end audio's most iconic companies. From Nelson's DIY roots and RadioShack experiments to the evolution of Threshold, First Watt, and Pass Labs, this episode is a rare deep dive into decades of audio innovation, philosophy, and storytelling.

Welcome to the AXPONA Audio Insider podcast! In this episode, Lenny Florentine sits down with Liam from Western Acoustics - a young, passionate audio startup shaking up the hi-fi world. Liam shares his unexpected journey from software engineering at Berkeley to hand-building speakers inspired by vintage horn-loaded systems. This isn't your typical audio company story. Western Acoustics blends cutting-edge engineering with music culture, aiming to bridge the gap between audiophiles and a new generation of listeners. Liam talks about designing gear not just for critical listening but for connection. Building systems that make people feel more intimate with their music. Whether you're deep in the hi-fi scene or just discovering it, this episode is full of fresh perspective, creativity, and inspiration from one of the youngest innovators in the game.

Lenny Florentine welcomes Bill Low, founder of AudioQuest, to the AXPONA Audio Insider podcast for a deep, thought-provoking conversation about music, emotion, and what truly makes us listen. Far beyond cables and components, Bill shares his philosophy that music is the world's most popular recreational drug — a force that changes brain chemistry, mood, and human connection. He explains how hi-fi isn't just about sound accuracy but about emotional immersion, vulnerability, and the ability to lose yourself in the moment. From the golden age of radio to today's streaming culture, Bill reflects on how generations fall in love with music, why audiophiles chase the frontier of better sound, and how meaningful listening begins with empathy and intent, not specs or status. This one is part philosophy, part hi-fi wisdom, and fully human.

Lenny Florentine sits down with Isaac Markowitz from REL Acoustics to talk subs, setup, and the new S Series. Isaac shares his path from music kid to sales leader, why REL focuses on speed, power, and beauty, and how high level analog filtering keeps timing intact. They dig into S 550, S 850, Carbon Special, and S 212, plus the cable tricks and high level connections that make integration easy for modern and vintage systems alike. Then Isaac tours his system with Wilson Alexia V speakers and a six pack REL Reference 32 line array, explaining how stereo pairs and vertical bass restore space, texture, and natural decay.

In this episode, Lenny Florentine sits down with Justin Weber, founder of Ampsandsound, to explore the craftsmanship and philosophy behind one of the most respected American tube amplifier companies. From Justin's early fascination with hi-fi and his journey from hobbyist to builder, to the creation of beautifully hand-wired amplifiers made entirely in Southern California. This conversation digs deep into what makes tube amplifiers so uniquely human and musically engaging. Justin explains why tube gear still matters, what makes the legendary 300B tube so special, and how Ampsandsound designs amplifiers to last for generations with a lifetime transferable warranty. You'll also learn about the company's lineup From the approachable Kenzie Integrated for newcomers to tubes, to the massive Red October XLS for serious enthusiasts.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Franz Ammann from Gotham Audio. Founded in New York City in 1958 and now based in Switzerland, Gotham Audio has built its reputation on precision, consistency, and signal purity. Franz shares the story behind Gotham's evolution from distributing Neumann microphones and EMT turntables to manufacturing its own double-shielded cables used in studios and hi-fi systems across the world. He explains the company's philosophy of maintaining absolute transparency in the audio chain, the science behind their signature shielding technology, and how their long-term partnerships ensure lasting quality. The conversation also includes an exclusive preview of Gotham's upcoming magnetically shielded cable, a groundbreaking design set to launch at AXPONA 2026. From studio engineering to home listening, this discussion offers rare insight into the craft and integrity behind every Gotham product.

In this episode, Lenny Florentine is joined by Eric Smith from Fidelity Imports to explore one of the most exciting new names in streaming: Matrix Audio. Born from three high school audiophiles with a passion for great sound and great design, Matrix has grown into one of the most complete digital audio manufacturers in the world. They design everything in-house—from the hardware and software to the app and operating system—making their products stand apart from the crowd. We dive deep into the new TS1, a $2,500 all-in-one streamer/DAC/preamp/headphone amp that's turning heads with its build quality, intuitive UX, and AKM-based design. You'll also hear about Matrix's full range of products, from dedicated streaming transports and DACs to their reference separates, and how features like internal SSD storage, CD ripping, ARC support, and even external clock integration make them serious contenders in the audiophile streaming space. If you've been thinking about upgrading your streamer or exploring Matrix Audio for your hi-fi system, this episode is a must-listen. 

A new name in high-end audio has arrived — and it's anything but ordinary. In this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down once again with Jeff Coats from Harmonia Distribution to introduce Ø Audio, a bold Norwegian loudspeaker brand making its U.S. debut. Founded by Sveinung Mala and Jonathan Cook, Audio blends Scandinavian craftsmanship with raw sonic power, working closely with SEAS to create proprietary driver technology that delivers explosive dynamics and live-performance realism. From the Frigg 02 to the commanding Icon 12 and the flagship Verdande, these speakers aren't just designed to impress — they're built to make you feel every note. Hear how this "Business Viking" brand is taking audio shows by storm, why their jump factor is unlike anything else, and what makes them one of the most exciting new names in the audiophile world.

Analog lovers, you're going to enjoy this one. In this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Greg Beron of United Home Audio, the man keeping reel-to-reel tape alive in the modern hi-fi world. Greg shares how he went from being laughed at during the rise of digital audio to becoming one of the most respected builders of audiophile-grade tape decks. He explains why tape remains the most authentic way to hear music recorded on analog masters, how his hand-built machines are engineered for reliability and performance, and what makes the Super Deck one of the most advanced analog sources in existence. You'll also hear stories from decades of audio shows, learn how master tape copies are produced, and understand why reel-to-reel delivers something that streaming and vinyl can't — the complete musical picture.