Linn Kiko Review by Stuff Magazine
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8 Oct
Do gold and platinum records really measure a musician’s success? In the music world, you often hear phrases like ‘gold record’ or an artist going ‘multi-platinum’ without actually understanding what the phrase even means. For more than half a century record labels and other bodies have been handing out ‘gold’ or ‘platinum’ records to represent sales success for musicians, but what do the labels mean and are they a good way of measuring a musician’s success? The history of gold and platinum records The first gold record was given to Glenn Miller for his song Chattanooga Choo-Choo in 1942 by his record label. As was the tradition in the early years, gold records were usually given by record labels to their artists as an internal celebration of sales, and as such the labeling system was not standardised. An artist could receive a gold record for whatever amount of records sold that their label saw fit. The practice did become standardised however in 1958 when the Recording Industry Association of America (RIIA) started their Gold Award Program. This led the way for the RIIA to become responsible for all music sales certification in the United States, which evolved past gold and into categories like ‘platinum’ and ‘diamond’. The gold records that aren’t gold (or even records) You might think that considering the price of gold and platinum that all these records would be pricey for RIIA. Well fear not, because the records aren’t metal at all. Most nowadays are made from plastic that has been sprayed to look like metal, and they aren’t real records either. If you put them in a player all you’d hear would be a scratch, not the song or album that the award is for. Even new versions that come with ‘golden’ or ‘platinum’ CDs aren’t playable either. Platinum for a million SHIPPED, not sold. A major criticism of the RIIA certifications is that they are based on the number of records shipped to retail outlets and not on how many are actually sold. While the number is a rough indicator of records sold, it can actually be a pretty poor estimate if a label ships out thousands and records and they don’t sell off a music store’s shelves. Theoretically, as long as a label can get stores to buy up stocks of an album based on believed saleability, a record can go gold or platinum without actually selling one copy off the shelves to a real customer. However the usual basemark numbers from the RIIA of 500,000 for gold and 1,000,000 for platinum are based on US numbers. Every country has different benchmarks (adjusting for population and other factors) as ruled by their recording associations. For example, a platinum album in the UK represents 300,000 and in Uruguay just 4,000 albums sold. So do they measure success? In a way certification measures success because stores will not buy the records if they do not think that they can sell them. Records therefore are probably more of an assessment of their sales appeal than of actual sales. However one must admit that incidences of shipping vastly outnumbering sales are few, and therefore certification is a good way of measuring a musician’s success. This is a guest post by Daniel Roberts. Occasional guest blogger on unusual use of gold and full time personal finance. Daniel currently repersents Regal Assets a great resource for gold and platinum investment solutions.
Read MoreGoogle Derived from Linn’s flagship Kisto System Controller, the Linn Kinos gives outstanding audio performance from stereo or surround-sound music, making the most of your CD collection and bringing you the benefit of improved sound quality from high-resolution formats such as Super Audio CD or DVD-Audio. With the Linn Kinos System Controller at the heart of your home entertainment system, controlling your system is simple. Partner Kinos with Linn’s latest Kinik control interface and you can operate your system wirelessly from your Pocket PC. The simplicity of this rich graphical touchscreen interface helps you to access and control your audio and video sources from the comfort of your armchair. Supporting stereo, 5.1 and 7.1 processing, Kinos is also the perfect solution for the finest home-theatre systems. It precisely decodes and processes a comprehensive range of surround-sound formats. Linn’s Kinos supports both PAL and NTSC and Composite, Component (YPbPr), RGB and S-Video. When the Linn Kinos is used with Linn’s Unidisk range of multi-format disc players, an RS232 link can be used to enable automatic pre-selection of the most appropriate decoding algorithm or analogue channels, determined by the disk type being played and the signal received. Linn’s Kinos can also be programmed to control other elements of your system for the complete home-theatre experience. Your projector powers up, your cinema sized screen drops into place, the light dim for that theatre like experiance and even your popcorm maker can spring into action. Concealed sockets on the front panel of the Linn Kinos provide a user-friendly, quick access solution for less frequently used products increasing the range of uses of the Kinos. For example, a games console, video camera or headphones can easily be connected. The Kinos from Linn also benefits from ‘silent power’ delivered by a Linn Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS). Where conventional power supplies operate through the standard audio bandwidth, Linn high-frequency Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) instead convert power at frequencies well outside the audio bandwidth ensuring the audio signal is unaffected by this conversion and all you hear is the music. Like all Linn pre-amplifiers, Kinos incorporates Knekt technology which means you can also enjoy music throughout your home as part of a Linn Knekt multi-room system. The Kinos system controller is designed and precision-engineered to complement other Linn components and makes a perfect partner for Linn’s Unidisk multi-format disc players, Akurate power-amplifier range and the Akurate loudspeaker system. Add more power amplifiers with internal Aktiv cards to enjoy the improved performance of an Aktiv system.
Read MoreAlfie studied at the Royal College of Music, the National Opera Studio and was a member or the Vilar Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House, London. He has performed Rodolfo at Glyndebourne, English National Opera and in Baz Luhrmann’s production of La Boheme on Broadway, for which he won a Tony Award. Other operatic roles include Alfredo, Tamino, Don Ottavio, Ferrando, Lysander, The Italian Tenor, the title role in Albert Herring, Caliph in Kismet and Camille du Rosillon inThe Merry Widow at opera houses including ENO, WNO, Glyndebourne, Opera National du Rhin, Strasbourg and La Monnaie, Brussels. It is therefore fitting that he is returning to his operetta heritage by exploring his love of LehÍr for his fourth solo recording. In September 2006 Alfie released his eponymous first album for Classic FM which inspired such comments as, “Alfie Boe is a stunning discovery who could be the best tenor of his generation” (Observer). Then followed two albums with EMI Classics, Onward and La Passione – a collection of Neapolitan songs and arias for which he was nominated for Best Album and Best Male at the 2008 Classical BRIT Awards. Alfie studied at the Royal College of Music, the National Opera Studio and was a member or the Vilar Young Artists Programme at the Royal Opera House, London. He has performed Rodolfo at Glyndebourne, English National Opera and in Baz Luhrmann’s production of La Boheme on Broadway, for which he won a Tony Award. Other operatic roles include Alfredo, Tamino, Don Ottavio, Ferrando, Lysander, The Italian Tenor, the title role in Albert Herring, Caliph in Kismet and Camille du Rosillon inThe Merry Widow at opera houses including ENO, WNO, Glyndebourne, Opera National du Rhin, Strasbourg and La Monnaie, Brussels.
Read More“Gucci is pleased to reveal the second installment in its “Forever Now” icons of heritage advertising campaign series conceived by Creative Director Frida Giannini in collaboration with Charlotte Casiraghi. The two new portraits celebrate the iconic metal horsebit featured on the classic Gucci Loafer – the hardware that has inspired a legacy, since it was first introduced into the House’s vocabulary nearly sixty years ago.” Note in the background the Linn Lp12 turntable, the perfect complement to the classic, 70’s style luxury exemplified by Gucci.
Read MoreBiomusicology Biomusicology is a new field that studies music from a biological point of view. Biomusicologists believe that music has been around long before humans. Music has been in existence as long as the animals have roamed the world. From birds to whales, many different species of animals use music to communicate with each other. Humans and Music It is believed that humans are hardwired to make music. People in prehistoric times were likely to make whistles or drums out of bones. Later people constructed instrument to play for fun or to be used for ceremonies. Around 2,500 years ago, Pythagoras used math to come up with the musical scale. Then each note was given a letter in order to read and write music. Evolution of Music Music began to transform as the years went on. As music developed, it became more complex. Cultures began to adopt music and develop it to express their traditions. Overtime, the expansion of music caused the expansion of designs of instruments. Religion also had an influence on the development of music. It was being played in churches and monasteries. Later music began to reflect cultural changes throughout the decades. Music changed from the classical era where Beethoven and Bach were popular and expanded to rock and roll where Elvis came into the scene. Emotional Value of Music People enjoy listening to music because of the emotional benefits it offers. Some listen to oldies because it brings back memories. Others enjoy classical because it relaxes them. A few like rock because it pumps them up. Whatever the reason, each person has a reason why they listen to their favorite type of music. Music throughout a Lifetime People are exposed to music at all ages. When they are babies, parents will sing songs or lullabies. Mothers have even started playing music to their children while they are still in the womb. Kids in preschool or kindergarten listen to songs that help them understand math, geography, and even history. People who undergo stress or traumatic events will even go through musical therapy to help recover from health problems like stroke. Music No matter the reason, music is listened to on a daily bases. The rhythms and instruments helps people relax, deal with stress, focus, and feel. Live music and recorded music has benefits for everyone and it will continue to evolve with the people to listen to it. WineStyles The Vintage is the place for live music Houston. Our building is an intimate acoustically controlled venue with over one hundred seats. To ensure quality sound for every concert, we have our own sound system and an amazing sound engineer.
Read MoreIf you are planning a getaway to the Algarve region of Portugal for your next holiday, why not plan in an evening of listening to the hauntingly beautiful sounds of traditional Fado music? When you are on holiday abroad, you see the sights, taste the food and feel the sunshine on your skin. By going to a Fado performance you can take it one step further and engage your sense of hearing as well. Fado music has a long and fascinating tradition in Portugal and it is incredibly moving and powerful to listen to. Dining at a local restaurant while listening to the traditional sounds of these old fashioned ballads will truly give you an experience of the heart and soul of Portuguese culture. The Story of Fado First of all, what is Fado music and how did it originate? Here is a bit of information about the history of Fado and its significance in Portuguese culture: Origins of Fado This Portuguese musical genre can be traced all the way back to the 1820s and perhaps even earlier. Its history is mostly passed on orally, which is why it is difficult to know exact dates. Some believe that the genre traces its origins back to songs between friends during the Middle Ages, Moorish Ballads or African-Brazilian rhythms. In the mid-19th century, the performers of Fado music were poor working class sailors who danced as they sang, accompanied by a Portuguese guitar and a classical guitar. What the Music Means The songs of Fado tell the tales of life of the poor and also about the people’s relationship with the sea. They are passed down through several generations by parents singing the songs to their children and so this tradition has carried on through the centuries. Most Fado songs often have a distinct tone of melancholy and the feeling of a sense of loss. The Portuguese word for it is “Saudade” which translates as longing. Even if you cannot understand the lyrics, the powerful emotion in the music will reach into your heart and touch you deeply. This type of music is so unique and so important to Portuguese culture, that it has actually been named a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Listening to Fado in the Algarve Although this type of music originated in Lisbon, Fado has spread throughout Portugal and can be experienced in the Algarve region. You will have many opportunities to listen to live Fado music while staying in the Algarve on your holiday. At the Porches Velho restaurant in the quiet village of Porches you will find yourself within a 210 year old wine cellar, which is the perfect setting in which to feel like you have been transported back in time while listening to the music. At the Real Marina Hotel you will be able to attend Fado performances every Sunday. Another great place to listen to Fado is The Atrium restaurant in Albufeira, which has balcony dining that overlooks the streets of this picturesque city. Also, the town of Portimao hosts the Festival of Fado which gathers together some of the best musicians in the country to perform. Besides these options, you could always just ask the local people in the community if they know of any upcoming Fado performances. If you have a chance to spend an evening listening to Fado during your holiday in the Algarve, be sure to take the opportunity. Listening to this beautiful style of music being performed live is incredibly moving and will be one of the most memorable experiences of your visit to Portugal. During your holiday at Monte da Quinta Suites, be sure to take the opportunity to enjoy some traditional Fado music.
Read MoreAsk the opinion of a handful of music aficionados and the majority of them will say that The Beatles are, and will always be, the greatest band to ever live. To say they are legendary doesn’t even come close to their influence on the world that still reverberates through society today. And now they’ve made a comeback with their experimental film, “Magical Mystery Tour,” which will be available for purchase and watched on blu ray players by their biggest admirers. Of course, this wasn’t the first movie that the Fab Four has done. Before this film, there was “Help!” and “A Hard Day’s Night.” Where this movie differed, of course, was in its tone. Their first two films were comedic, while “Magical Mystery Tour” experimented with the psychedelic overtones that had become popularized during the era. Introducing six new songs throughout the film, this 1967 musical introduced us to an eccentric band of characters who populate a trip to the English countryside. Of course, this is a simplistic run-down of what occurs in the film, as the narrative doesn’t follow any hard and fast rules. Instead, it is all over the place, boiling down to an odd collection of clips focusing on songs such “The Fool on the Hill” and “I am the Walrus.” The digital restoration of picture and sound will make your Blu Ray player shine. The picture quality of “Magical Mystery Tour” really brings to life every character and sequence like never before. Add to that the 5.1 surround sound that makes the songs sound better than ever, and you have the best presentation of this film that you would have probably never seen otherwise. For all you huge Beatles fan out there (and there are A LOT of you), the release of “Magical Mystery Tour” includes a deluxe edition that will look great alongside any Blu Ray or Beatles collection. This 10″ by 10″ set includes two discs; one that is accessible for Blu Ray players and a standard DVD version of the film, plus commentary by none other than Paul McCartney, who was the real driving force behind the experimental film. You’ll also get to enjoy brand new interviews with McCartney and Ringo Starr. Plus, an added bonus: a special LP that includes the original mono EP released in the United Kingdom and half a dozen additional songs. And if all that wasn’t enticing enough to make this deluxe edition a part of your collection, you also get a 60-page book filled with production notes, background info, and photographs from the original film and its production. With this film and the recent release of the animated movie “Yellow Submarine,” we are now only one movie away from the entire Beatles film collection. Once “Let It Be” is released, The Beatles life on Blu Ray will be complete. Citations: Photo credit Mercedes Potter is a huge fan of The Beatles and looks forward to taking a psychadelic trip watching the Magical Mystery Tour. Follow her @CedesPotter to read other music related posts.
Read MoreIt is already well known amongst many music aficionados that vinyl records have been enjoying a resurgence in recent years with huge store-chains like HMV selling them in high street stores. Which is certainly the case in my nearest branch. This chart shows how in the world of declining internet sales because of piracy, other formats have been enjoying significant sales surpluses. (chart via Digital Music News) The origins of this resurgence lie in the increasing number of contemporary artists who are choosing to release on vinyl along with the mainstream digital formats as well. Their prevalence is being felt in independent record stores with a recent statisitc showing that the majority of vinyl sales are done in independent record shops. As this statisitc shows: The newly pressed vinyl that is being sold in these stores mainly consits of re-releases of classic albums, such as The Beatles’ Abbey Road as well as many contemporary artists choosing to release on Vinyl. With world-class bands like Coldplay releasing their album, Mylo Xyloto, in vinyl. The most commercially successful album of 2011, Adele’s 21, was also released in vinyl and it is evidence of vinyl moving from being the domain of nostalgic hipsters to a widely accepted mainstream format. Other artists that still release on vinyl include the long established groups like U2 and Status Quo who both have released their latest material on vinyl. Most recently Bruce Springsteen’s Wrecking Ball was also released on vinyl and is a good example of well established artists still using vinyl as a format for their new material.
Read MoreMake your Linn Renew DS sound even better and get a 2nd Linn DS player for your home at the same time! For a limited period, Linn Akurate DS owners can enjoy a very special upgrade offer which not only improves the sound of your existing system but lets you share great sound with another room of your home too using Songcast. Linn Renew DS for Linn Akurate is a special upgrade package that lets you update your system with the latest Linn Akurate DS audio performance and turns your old audio board into a second working Linn DS player. The upgrade package comprises: · a latest Linn Akurate DS audio board which fits into your existing Linn Akurate DS player and improves the sound quality · a new product that contains a power supply and your old Linn Akurate DS audio board, giving you a Linn Renew DS player for a second room of your home – just add power amps and speakers. What’s more, you’ll automatically receive a new Linn 5 year parts and labour warranty on both Linn DS players from the date you upgrade. The latest Linn Akurate DS audio board was introduced in November 2010 and offers improved audio performance over the original audio board thanks to: · a new lower jitter master clock · an improved DAC power supply and layout · a new lower distortion output circuit Why not contact us today to find out more and audition the new, higher performance Akurate system. Please note that the Linn Akurate DS audio board can also be purchased separately as an upgrade. This offer applies to Linn Akurate DS built between Dec 2007 and November 2010
Read MoreFor help and advice on choosing the right home entertainment system for you, get in touch with the experts at Rococo Systems.
