Audio Insider, an AXPONA Podcast

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. 

In this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny sits down with Tom and Monica from Cymatix—a father-daughter team bringing groundbreaking speaker design to the hi-fi world. Tom shares his journey from building speakers in Poland over 40 years ago to creating some of the most ambitious compound planar drivers available today. Monica opens up about leaving a corporate career to embrace the healing and transformative power of sound, and together they reveal what makes Cymatix speakers unique: emotional clarity, fatigue-free listening, and fully customizable designs built in-house. From massive 750-pound floorstanders to in-wall speakers that disappear into the room, Cymatix is redefining what's possible in high-end audio.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Chris from Focal and Naim to talk about the evolution of hi-fi, from car audio beginnings to groundbreaking headphone technology and now to the all-new Diva Utopia and Diva Mezza Utopia wireless speakers. These models combine Focal's decades of loudspeaker innovation with Naim's legendary amplification, bringing true audiophile performance into a modern, lifestyle-friendly design. From luxury finishes and advanced room correction to the seamless integration of wireless streaming and powerful Class AB amplification, Chris shares how these speakers are changing perceptions of what wireless hi-fi can deliver.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Jean-Loup from Devialet to explore how the French company blends cutting-edge technology with bold design. From the breakthrough ADH hybrid amplification and the original Expert amplifiers to the iconic Phantom speakers, Devialet has redefined what high-end audio can look and sound like. We also dive into their latest innovations — the new Astra amplifier and the upcoming Phantom Ultimate series — showcasing upgraded performance, improved DSP, and sleek finishes. If you're curious about how Devialet continues to push boundaries in hi-fi, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

This week on the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast Lenny Florentine sits down with Jeff Coates of Harmonia, the U.S. distributor for Fyne Audio. Jeff shares his journey into hi-fi, the story behind Fyne's creation, and what makes their IsoFlare driver and vintage-inspired loudspeakers so special. From speaker design breakthroughs to music that inspires, this conversation dives deep into passion, history, and sound.

Step inside the story of SOTA Turntables with Christan as he shares his journey from a teenage stereo shop kid to owner of one of the most respected analog brands in hi-fi. We talk about how his background as a musician shaped his approach to design, why locally sourced materials and precision engineering matter, and the legacy of SOTA's suspended turntable philosophy dating back to 1979. Christan breaks down the challenges of building high-end turntables in today's market, the constant pursuit of lower wow & flutter, and how SOTA continues to evolve with cutting-edge electronics while still servicing decks that are decades old. From the entry-level Moonbeam to the all-new Onyx flagship, we dive into what makes SOTA unique and why their tables are still built to last a lifetime.

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny sits down with Chad Kassem of Acoustic Sounds, founder of one of the most important names in the audiophile world. From a small passion for records in the 1980s to running a company with its own record label, mastering facility, printing shop, and the world-renowned Quality Record Pressings (QRP) plant, Chad has built a complete vinyl ecosystem that has changed the way collectors experience music. We also dig into Chad's legendary vintage audio collection, including dozens of iconic Marantz, Sansui, Pioneer, Kenwood, and Yamaha receivers. He shares the stories behind collecting, trading, and preserving these classics, plus why the look, feel, and sound of vintage gear still captures the imagination of today's audiophiles. This conversation bridges two worlds: the future of vinyl production at scale and the timeless beauty of vintage hi-fi. All coming from two vintage hi-fi enthusiasts whom both run hi-fi retail businesses in different parts of the country.

In this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Joe from Tributaries and Clarus Cables—and doesn't hold back. From asking whether high-end cables are just snake oil to pressing for the real science behind the sound, this conversation isn't your typical soft-ball interview. Joe shares his incredible journey from managing a legendary Mac dealer in the '70s to launching a cable company built not on hype, but on engineering, patents, and proof. You'll hear how he challenged the industry status quo, worked directly with Jay Victor, and redefined how cables can impact music listening.

AXPONA's Lenny Florentine sits down with Sheree and Val from Acora Acoustics to explore how their pioneering use of granite and marble cabinets transforms hi‑fi listening. From their 1998 launch of handcrafted granite speakers to the new MRC marble series starting at $8,000, they reveal how exotic stone and accuton ceramic drivers deliver unmatched clarity, dynamics, and consistency. Discover the CNC precision, custom tooling, and thoughtful design decisions that make stone‑clad cabinets vibrationally inert and sonically transparent. Join us for an in‑depth look at how Acora pushes audio boundaries through material science and craftsmanship.

On this episode of the Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Dave Nauber of T + A to explore his journey from teenage hi‑fi enthusiast to industry leader, and to uncover what makes T + A's gear so uniquely captivating. Dave shares how a chance summer job working at a local audio shop led him through engineering studies, roles at Madrigal Audio Labs and Classé, and ultimately to spearheading T + A's North American launch. Along the way you'll learn about the power of design in hi‑fi, the company's focus on symmetric directivity for true musicality, and why their new Symphonia streaming integrated amplifier is turning heads with its blend of vintage‑inspired meters, high‑voltage circuitry, and full‑featured digital suite. Tune in to discover why audiophiles around the world are falling in love with T + A's German‑engineered precision and to get an exclusive look at the gear that's raising the bar for modern listening.