L’Or du Son • April 2026
Dear Friends,
Spring is now well underway, and I hope this message finds you well.
This month also marks a meaningful new chapter for Le Son. Following the strong enthusiasm for our upgraded Denon DL-103, we have officially launched our Cartridge Restoration service on our website. What began with the growing demand for one much-loved classic has naturally evolved into a broader offering, now extended to other cartridges and other brands as well. We will return to this subject very soon in a dedicated communication.
For now, we invite you to explore below a curated selection of reviews, news, and analog discoveries that recently caught our attention.
Enjoy the read!
Gregory de Richemont
Reviews
Pass Labs XS Phono Preamplifier
An in-depth evaluation of Pass Labs’ cost-no-object phono preamp, praised for its exceptional sound and design sophistication.
Eminent Technology LFT8c Loudspeaker
Review of Bruce Thigpen’s innovative hybrid planar loudspeaker, blending planar mids/highs with cone bass for refined audiophile performance.
AGD DUET GaN-Power Monoblock Amplifier
Review of a high-performance monoblock amplifier emphasizing the personal connection musicians have with their instruments and sound.
News & Releases
LTA Century Monoblocks Celebrate Linear Tube Audio’s 10th Anniversary
Introduction and first sales of LTA’s Century monoblocks, showcased at Capital Audiofest, exemplifying the company’s commitment to tube amplification excellence.
Wilson Benesch Greenwich Turntable Introduced
Entry-level model in the GMT® platform featuring ALPHA–OMEGA direct drive architecture, sharing core technology with higher-end Wilson Benesch turntables.
Music & Mastering
Johnny Cash's "Hot and Blue Guitar" on 180g 45rpm Mono LPs Reviewed
A nostalgic review of this classic Johnny Cash album reissued on heavyweight mono vinyl, capturing the raw energy and authenticity of the original recordings.
Five Outstanding Reissues from the Vinylphile Series
A review of exceptional reissues offering superior packaging, pressing, and sound quality, featuring artists like Jellyfish, Peter Frampton, and The Velvet Underground.
Chess Records Celebrates 75 Years with Acoustic Sound Series
Chess Records marks 75 years with a new Acoustic Sound Series featuring remastered LPs from original analog tapes, highlighting iconic blues artists. A significant release for vinyl enthusiasts appreciating authentic analog mastering.
Miles Davis' "Birth of the Cool" Tone Poet Reissue Announced
A new audiophile reissue sourced directly from original analog phono reel master tapes, promising authentic sound quality for this seminal jazz recording.
Forum Threads
Phono Preamp Using Loctal Tubes
Community exchange on building phono preamplifiers employing Loctal tubes, offering insights for tube enthusiasts and DIY builders.
Recent LP Purchases That Sound Amazing
Community thread where members share recent vinyl acquisitions noted for exceptional sound quality, inspiring collectors and listeners alike.
Etsuro Gold MC Cartridge In-House Discussion
Forum thread discussing the Etsuro Gold moving coil cartridge, relevant for cartridge collectors and analog enthusiasts.
Culture & Essays
The Woman Behind Some of the World's Finest Vinyl Records
A video tribute highlighting the contributions of a key female figure in vinyl record production, celebrating craftsmanship and dedication in analog mastering culture.
My Audiophile Journey: A Life Shaped by Sound
A personal narrative tracing a lifelong passion for music and sound, highlighting the human side of audiophile culture beyond gear.
Flemming Rasmussen: Engineer Behind '80s Metallica Sound
Interview with Flemming Rasmussen, producer of seminal Metallica albums, discussing his studio and influence on heavy metal’s analog sound.
L’Or du Son
A Monthly Exploration of the Analog World
A thoughtful selection of reviews, articles, videos, discussions, and news to deepen our connection with music and analog sound.
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