It hasn’t been a good year for me, but your videos helped to bear with it. Thank you very much for your fun and down to earth approach. I can’t wait to watch your videos nor John Darko’s. Let’s have a great 2025, Randy. Cheers!
I watch all of your videos and love them all. You come across as a very honest guy. Also really enjoy the chats with Kevin from Skylabs. You compliment each other well with the different perspectives on vintage and new hi-fi. It is great to watch.
Loved your Italy videos this year! Hopefully you get another junket this year. Your enthusiasm for the Unison Research Unico Primo amp has me saving money for it!
I am grateful for finding your channel and the community you've created. My wife gifted me an entry-level turntable this Christmas, and as a result, I discovered your channel as I rediscovered my dormant audiophile. This channel is entertaining and informative, regardless of whether you're talking about low-cost options or high-end gear. The higher-end gear is something to strive for. As someone just getting back into the hobby after decades away, this entire experience has reawakened my love of just sitting down and listening to music, to the joy of holding physical media in my hands again, to being a gearhead again and doing it on the affordable side. Keep doing what you're doing, and rock on.
Good job with 2024 Randy! Hopefully doing YT full time is paying off for you, thanks to you and your vids my audio setups at home have gone up a notch, without spending crazy money, with now a house full of Wiim (all of them as they are great) Fosi Za3 x2 and sparko op-amps and I've never been happier, so keep up the good work! Hopefully alot of your subscribers also find your advice useful, I definitely have!! So keep up the great work in 2025!! We all hope you do!
As someone who moved from basic mass-market desk speakers to a full 2.1 channel HiFi system over the last year, I really appreciate your "best --- at every price point" videos - helps with research when I want to upgrade or wishlist speakers/amps/subwoofers/etc. Happy new year Randy!
I got into your channel because of the name and really enjoyed being introduced to the world of cheaper Audio. My equipment is firmly based around older pieces, based on a NAD 3130. I was unaware of what I guess is mainly Chi-Fi but based on what you’d shown found a newish second hand Topping for my wife’s turntable which had sat neglected for over a decade. I was surprised when you sometimes showed equipment that was well out of my budget but loved being shown what is out there - and I love the Paris A10. Your reviews are fantastic and I suspect there are like me, many out there looking for cheap audio gear that outperforms the name brands. Keep on doing what you do.
People will always be curious about expensive products that the majority can't afford, in an aspirational way. See also: Cars, boats, clothes, houses, pretty much anything. But the reality of the world right now is that many, many people are hurting financially. So they're really interested in stretching what money they do have. I think "going back to your roots" to concentrate on the budget/value end of the market is a smart idea and a very worthwhile approach many people will appreciate.
keep doing what you are doing . i love seeing all levels of HI FI . I am on vacation this week and had some time to go visit some stereo stores that i use to frequent back in the 80s, stereo stores are not what they used to be ,where you could go in and play with gear and listen to gear , they are custom install stores and you feel like you are bothering them when you walk in . so YOU and your content is like if I was going into a store and playing around with new gear , thank you for all you do .
I found you in Nov and I've watched all your videos now! I love your content and how you present it. It's like sitting down with a buddy and chatting about audio. I'm a tell it like it is kind of guy so I really like your approach . Entertaining, informative and fun! Keep those great videos coming! Thanks from John in Calgary!
Yes Randy, 2024 was a great year! Love the direction you have been taking the channel. IMO, I agree most with "products that punch above their weight class." I still appreciate content about gear that is above my price point, but my favorite videos have usually ended with me clicking "buy now." The one miss I think you may have had from 2024, was not reviewing the Moondrop Para, these are my favorite purchase this year and I think Moondrop will continue to surprise us.
Found you because I wanted to find a review on the Dentons 85. That is what I wanted to buy but it was pricier than my second option the LSX.II LT. Liked your style but moreover you seem to know what your talking about. I ended up buying the LSX and you helped me to consider every aspects. I wanted to go for the Denton's but couldn't afford them since in need an amp and a dac to fit with these. All this for my desk setup. That was also the condition. The LSX were on sale, Almost 40% off. Too good to pass and it would have been better than anything I own anyway. So if I don't know the other speakers sound on the market, and as I first entry in to the audiophile world, I can't be too disappointed. Anyway, I could send them back. But I took your opinion in account and especially since I prefer warmer and fuller sound by nature. What the heck I know in the end. Everything is still a rumor to my ignorant ears. So I pulled the plug on the KEF. Of course I'm happy with them. Because I can from some Sony's BT box that sounded great. Really for what it is. But I keep your opinion and taste mind when I'll upgrade and be able to hear these nuances you mentioned. But in the ned, ignorance is bliss, KEF are small for my desk, they look great too (the Dentons too OMG), they sound great, I dont have to find an amp and a dac that fit the bill and the size. Your channel will grow for sure. The camera loves you. So views will grow bigger if you carrying on the good work (of course, we need knowledge in the end). You'll attract authentic and grounded people. I think we're also glad to find someone that is exploring cheeper options and tell us about these. Sometimes they are so gems in there and being an audiophile can be a pricey passion. I would have died for a video that explore desk setups at different budgets. Or different solution for a 1000€/€ budget for instance. Cheaper dac and amp, pricier speakers and vice versa. You collect a lot of new comer and be an enabler. I don't drink coffee but I sure feel like relaxing watching you. Thank you for sharing your love for the sound.
Thank you brother, for the transparency in how you did last year and also access and thought process in building your viewership. My own journey in audio changed in 2024 because of the WiiM Ultra and Darko and your channels. The WiiM Ultra made me transition from headphones and IEMs mostly to my first desktop setup: Roon Core (Mac Mini)>WiiM Ultra to Geshelli Jnog (AKM) >Arcam A25>Kef Q Concerto Meta. The journey remains personal, music first, but no longer just in my head. Here’s to a new year in the hobby Cheers
I have just started collecting the Polk xt series speakers… slowly over time to fit my budget. Economical is always good, as a lot of other channels else seems to think people who love music are rich… and I would say we have a rich culture, but maybe not a rich pocket book!
At this point I just like your format and your polished but still bloopered and dad joked content...doesnt matter to me what youre talking about I'll still watch....but I do like the cheaper stuff more cause I can actually "play along" lol anyway keep up the great work, shake them haterz off, and keep the vidz comin'...Much Love, Many Blessings, and More Success for the New Year!!!! 😊
Congrats Randy, grab a cup of coffee! I have a nice HT setup, all equipment in a rack in a closet in the lower level. But, I would really like to find options for listening to 2-channel music in the same location. Just don't know if that should be using old LPs, old CDs, or a streaming service, like Spotify. I would love to be able to do this without having to go down to the rack. For me, I need a 101 on getting the best 2-channel sound.... Thanks for your video, I will now go back a watch a few that peak my interest that I didn't see. Cheers!
Thank you for an awesome year of you being you. I know it’s against your brand but I really enjoy when you veer upstream , the stuff in the $2000 mark specially speakers seems to be where a lot of innovation is happening and that is expensive but it seems like that price point is performing where stuff that used to be in the 10k plus used to be just a few short years ago
I've been with you since way back. I miss the ratings toys you used to award the products you compared. I also miss seeing you without glasses. Thanks for all!
Thanks for investing the time to inform and entertain! I enjoyed the year in review. It's time for me to subscribe and show my support in a tangible way! Just subscribed! Keep 'em coming.
I look forward to your videos about the audio industry. I find it very interesting how we have such an illusion of choice when it comes to manufactured products, especially through mainstream channels.
Thanks for the year in review debrief! You were one of the first UA-cam channels I started following when I began my HiFi journey and I have learned a lot from you. I do not view you as the Cheap Audioman but as the "Value" Audioman (I know it's not as catchy) so please continue to explore the full price range ($0-$2k) of products in search of the best values in HiFi. For 2025, please do a little more comparisons when reveiwing new products and I always enjoy building different systems at different price point videos. Keep up the great work and best wishes for continues success in 2025!
Love the channel. Finding gear which replaces the expensive gear from the past but brings the warm sound back at that affordable level. It does not have to be the cheapest as you still want quality components. Why is vinyl popular again. Do maybe some vinyl record players. Oh touchy subject maybe, headphone amplifiers. A very reasonable priced headset with a "cheap" amplifier will out perform expensive speakers if you are on a tight budget, but want amazing sound. I get it not for everyone.
I agree with your conclusion, i believe budget options are the most interesting. On my end i am always interested in bang for a buck! Value to performance is important for me anyway. Keep up the good work!
Happy New Year to you and yours Randy! Love your channel and have been a longtime subscriber (ever since the wobbly kitchen table). Keep doing what you do, your way and any other way you see fit (love the mixed content whether cheap or expensive ) ! I think it's both informative, entertaining and I sure appreciate your sense of humor! Again, Happy New Year to all!
Randy! Happy New Year to you and yours. I hope everyone world wide has a much better 2025 than 2024. I'm a little concerned though - 2025 is starting with W.T.F.. Be safe, happy, healthy, prosperous and enjoy your music folks!
So much fun on AliExpress! It’s like an adventure, from beginning (finding something cool or interesting) to end (it actually being delivered to you). I’ve recently been into single driver full range open baffle listening. Two pairs of Aiyima drivers arrived the other day and I am very impressed. My next purchase on AliExpress is probably going to be an amplifier. Maybe even the one you reviewed.
I bought the Douk Audio ST-01 Pro from AliExpress (Amp). Powers my Acoustic Research AR18LS speakers with inputs from my Fluance RT82 (upgraded acrylic platter and AT VMN95EN cartridge and stylus), my PC, my Sony BluRay player (for CD's) and Bluetooth from anyone's phone. It was Cheapaudioman's review that convinced me to pull the trigger and buy it! I haven't looked back, it's INCREDIBLE bang for buck quality!
Favorite CAM video of the year: the emotive, second video on Advance Paris 10. It captured so eloquently why many of us listen to music in the first place. Not recommended to strict super-gear-heads, hyper-techie-analytic folks (as some of the comments revealed) - best spend your time at ASR for optimal rewards and life enrichment.
Hey Randy. I have become a big fan of yours and you have been my reference to get my audio gear, from the Emotiva TA-100, the Sony speakers, the WiiMs ( I have the mini and the pro plus), a Sony blu-ray with coax output, I really love the sound I got from your recommendations. Thanks for your good work and happy new year to you too from the Pacific coast of Mexico
Great year young man! Titles are the best way to capture us, but like u said, without making it click bait. As soon as the trust is lost between, us your customer then its just like another business. Glad you've stayed true to u and what u do. Ofcourse your going to do promotional videos, just keep it real, man. Talk to us like you did here and people will see that as honesty, which will increase our good perception of you. Take care and best of luck in 2025!
I’m starting 2025 by assembling all the 2024 gear, now that I can get to that part of the room! The WiiM Ultra documentation is as awesome as the unit itself! To me, good docs are so rare and wonderful that I have to give it a shout-out! I’m truly impressed with WiiM. Thanks, Randy, for the heads up about that gear!❤
Randy, loved the videos from your Italy trip. As to products if you like something trust your gut, if you think it's interesting a lot of us will be interested also.
The highlight of the year was the Tom Evans Audio Design Mastergroove repair video by Mend it Mark. We got an insight into the true quality of a high end audio component. On the SMSL PO100 Pro that's the low point.
Here's a fun idea: How about inviting Billy Idol and Steve Stevens to test out some 'cheap' audio setups? It might be a challenge to pull off, but imagine the reaction and how epic it would be! Worth a thought?
I'm just trying to figure out something really good to hook up to my new M4 iMac. "Near Field" seems right. Don't want anything too big. Tubes and all that seems silly for a system that might just be doing computer beeps and sounds sometimes. Streamers don't seem needed when the source is my computer. I want great sound, at low volume and a minimal look and not a bunch of extra stuff. That's the video I'm waiting for. Thanks. Happy 2025.
Random find a few months ago and enjoy your ‘entertainment’ and reviews. On your recommend I got a wiim ultra. Being Canadian and suffering currancy exchange changes the ‘advertised’ price point, though still an unbelievable product! I’d do my own review if I knew what I was doing, but I’ll leave that up to you. Keep it cheap, my man, we’re all pinching pennies to feed our ears.
That Ali Express video was great for three reasons: 1. We have *all* wanted to buy one of those knockoffs just to see what you get 2. You were having a great time and it showed. 3. There was a little more snark than usual, so it had me laughing out loud.
Starting from the title of the channel, even I love to see the Wharfedale Linton, I prefer you discover for us cheap audio equipment. Thank you from Canary Islands, Spain.
I don't think anything startling happened with audio quality this year, what you could say is the bang for buck you're now getting is startling compared to even a few years ago. The "high-end" is still doing what the high-end does, which is empty the pockets of people with expendable income.
Evening from the UK and happy new year! Really like this channel - learning a lot as I get back into listening to music. I’d love to see a video when you recommend music tracks that really get the best out of a set up. We have similar music taste - which helps :-)
I'm only speaking from my point of view. But I have always loved audio equipment but had let my interest wane for different reasons. One of main reasons is I was watching many frustrating videos on UA-cam. In the category of politics. But I want to just leave that nonsense behind and reignite my interest for things I love. And one of my biggest love is music and audio equipment. So I started to watch your very good videos the last few months. And you have me hooked. I am subscribed. Keep up the good work. FYI I have been into vintage speakers lately and made some nice purchases. I'm now ready to upgrade my audio equipment.
Happy New Year Randy. Will you be at the FL Audio show this year? Wife and I are driving to it this year and we're both hoping to see you there. All the best ...
No ceiling on youtube! I love hifi channels, you an Darko are the best! Would be great to collaborate in some way, one of my most popular videos was about Music Assistant, a streaming software for home automation systems!
Douk (Nobsound) just released the A5 amplifier, which is TPA3255 based with adjustable high pass filter with separate Aux output for a powered sub. Has a very nice look and it takes up to a 48v power supply. I’d like to see a video about that.
Perhaps it was done and I missed it, but I would love to see an updated sound bar replacement set up video. With and without arc options so the family doesn't have to learn multiple remotes.
"Entertaining videos on cheap stuff"....yes Randy, you are both entertaining and very funny.....and you are also great at talking about the "stuff" that bats above its weight. This hobby is fun and too many people take themselves way too seriously....you don't and its refereshing, but you are also very good at it. Bring on 2025!
Maybe budget AV receivers? I know I know, most here are 2 channel people....I am too, but I just decided to dive into some home theater stuff and have tested 5 receivers. I might be trying to get sound that will never match my 2 channel budget setups. So far the budget winner is Onkyo NR6100...BUT cannot find that perfect music sound stage even in Pure Direct. Room correction software or manual...I'm still beating my head into the couch cushions. lol
Hi Cheap Audioman Randy. Thank u for the reviews. I realy like to watch every week to you content. I like the real expensive stuff like Goldnote. Realy enjoying cool smart devices like Fosi or Wiim. I,am an B&O enthousiast. It would bij nice to review some of there nice products the next year. Like the amazing theatre soundbar or the sweet wifi speakers like the Beosound Balance, Emerge or level ( or all three of them) have a great year and hope to see more content and reviews. Cheers Hans from the Netherlands👍🏻
Actually bought the Evo 150 Delorean ... partly inspired by your review (and Old Guy HiFi), though here in Europe they are cheaper (paid €2100 near Black Friday). Amazing if you want a hi-ish end all in one solution (not sure that's your main audience 🙂).
Thank you for the back end details regarding how the UA-cam thing works. This helps understand what's going on between playing the game ..and who you are. I do blame the Algorithm for manipulating us all to dance like monkeys for the clicks... but like you said.. this is your income .. so, that's a fine line to walk.
I can recommend the Aliexpress Brz Hifi Marantz MA9 clone. Again, roughly $250. It's based loosely on the 1999 MA9 mono block amps. It's class AB, biased towards class A and gets pretty hot. It could probably do with better case design/circuit layout to manage this, but insane sound for the price.
You're right, stick to your roots, best value for money and great deals on cheap stuff. I like good deals on Aliexpress, not the cheapest but best preamp under $50, best amp under $100, best streamer under $75, best speaker $100, $250, $600. Best deal for Dac setup with streamer and cd player. Good audio on the cheap.
Good point on overdoing content. Personally, when i see a content creature pumping out videos, it comes off as desperate in a sense. Example, i loke watching Lost in vegas. They react to music. They are really good at leaving me wanting more because they pace themselves. Of course thats a different type of content but still holds true in my way of thinking, like i said not coming off as just making content for views. Your Quality has gotten much better from the editing to little add ons in your videos. That makes me feel like you are taking your time and evolving in this business venture. Products, good inexpensive with good quality and with your seal of approval is what i Personally enjoy best. Like amps etc. Im a hometheater guy usually, adding to that could also gain some followers. I dont think its a must to have a hometheater if you base it on multichannel amps or subs. Probably a fine line to viewers though so be careful if you decide to go that route as well, without theater knowledge. Just my thoughts man, take care!
I'd like to see a video on the differences between the Denon Home Amp and the Marantz M1. People say they're the same, but that extra $200 for the marantz must buy you something, shouldn't it?
Maybe I'm the only one, but I miss the sponsored content from Sith Audio.
Me too!
Me too! So original, so counter culture, so awesome 😊
he can't pay himself.
It hasn’t been a good year for me, but your videos helped to bear with it. Thank you very much for your fun and down to earth approach. I can’t wait to watch your videos nor John Darko’s.
Let’s have a great 2025, Randy.
Cheers!
Thanks and let’s hear about those topping b200s. Your boy is on the fence!
Thanks so much! I haven’t had one in yet but I’m probably picking one up
I was Gifted an Schiit Asgard 3, and your reviews and interview with Schiit founder, got me running down a fun rabbit Schiit hole. Happy New Year
I watch all of your videos and love them all. You come across as a very honest guy. Also really enjoy the chats with Kevin from Skylabs. You compliment each other well with the different perspectives on vintage and new hi-fi. It is great to watch.
Loved your Italy videos this year! Hopefully you get another junket this year.
Your enthusiasm for the Unison Research Unico Primo amp has me saving money for it!
Happy New Year to you and the whole family, Sir. Your content is a great way to kick off my 2025. All the best to you and the whole family.
Happy New Year to you, too!
I am grateful for finding your channel and the community you've created. My wife gifted me an entry-level turntable this Christmas, and as a result, I discovered your channel as I rediscovered my dormant audiophile. This channel is entertaining and informative, regardless of whether you're talking about low-cost options or high-end gear. The higher-end gear is something to strive for.
As someone just getting back into the hobby after decades away, this entire experience has reawakened my love of just sitting down and listening to music, to the joy of holding physical media in my hands again, to being a gearhead again and doing it on the affordable side.
Keep doing what you're doing, and rock on.
You never just know what video will take off, I run a small channel 5K subs. Looking forward to 2025!
Just Subbed 🤓
@ thank you, you must have just pushed me over the 5k mark :)
Did the same - after a quick look, I’m digging it.
@@simonsayshomeassistant keep cranking out the videos!
@ thanks mate I sure plan too!
Yes, please do more videos that suit this channel. " The cheap audioman" get back to your routes, enjoying music without spending huge money
There is only a limited amount of cheap products out there and those have been done to death.
There are quite a few that he hasn't done, such as the Douk Audio H7 amplifier. He also hasn't done the L3, also from Douk.
@jukingeo agreed,,,and he could review turntable cartridges,or headphones and head phone amplifier plus there are always new products coming out
Good job with 2024 Randy! Hopefully doing YT full time is paying off for you, thanks to you and your vids my audio setups at home have gone up a notch, without spending crazy money, with now a house full of Wiim (all of them as they are great) Fosi Za3 x2 and sparko op-amps and I've never been happier, so keep up the good work! Hopefully alot of your subscribers also find your advice useful, I definitely have!! So keep up the great work in 2025!! We all hope you do!
As someone who moved from basic mass-market desk speakers to a full 2.1 channel HiFi system over the last year, I really appreciate your "best --- at every price point" videos - helps with research when I want to upgrade or wishlist speakers/amps/subwoofers/etc. Happy new year Randy!
I got into your channel because of the name and really enjoyed being introduced to the world of cheaper Audio. My equipment is firmly based around older pieces, based on a NAD 3130. I was unaware of what I guess is mainly Chi-Fi but based on what you’d shown found a newish second hand Topping for my wife’s turntable which had sat neglected for over a decade. I was surprised when you sometimes showed equipment that was well out of my budget but loved being shown what is out there - and I love the Paris A10. Your reviews are fantastic and I suspect there are like me, many out there looking for cheap audio gear that outperforms the name brands. Keep on doing what you do.
December is when I discovered your channel. Learning so much about stuff. Thanks for your work.
People will always be curious about expensive products that the majority can't afford, in an aspirational way. See also: Cars, boats, clothes, houses, pretty much anything. But the reality of the world right now is that many, many people are hurting financially. So they're really interested in stretching what money they do have. I think "going back to your roots" to concentrate on the budget/value end of the market is a smart idea and a very worthwhile approach many people will appreciate.
Your A10 video convinced me to upgrade from my AS501, but the 501 is a great back up!
keep doing what you are doing . i love seeing all levels of HI FI . I am on vacation this week and had some time to go visit some stereo stores that i use to frequent back in the 80s, stereo stores are not what they used to be ,where you could go in and play with gear and listen to gear , they are custom install stores and you feel like you are bothering them when you walk in . so YOU and your content is like if I was going into a store and playing around with new gear , thank you for all you do .
Happy New Year Randy !!! Health and Happiness to you and your loved ones!!! Bill from Northeast France !!!
I found you in Nov and I've watched all your videos now! I love your content and how you present it. It's like sitting down with a buddy and chatting about audio. I'm a tell it like it is kind of guy so I really like your approach . Entertaining, informative and fun! Keep those great videos coming! Thanks from John in Calgary!
Wow, thank you!
Happy New Year!
Keep lovin' the music, man
Yes Randy, 2024 was a great year! Love the direction you have been taking the channel. IMO, I agree most with "products that punch above their weight class." I still appreciate content about gear that is above my price point, but my favorite videos have usually ended with me clicking "buy now." The one miss I think you may have had from 2024, was not reviewing the Moondrop Para, these are my favorite purchase this year and I think Moondrop will continue to surprise us.
Found you because I wanted to find a review on the Dentons 85. That is what I wanted to buy but it was pricier than my second option the LSX.II LT. Liked your style but moreover you seem to know what your talking about. I ended up buying the LSX and you helped me to consider every aspects. I wanted to go for the Denton's but couldn't afford them since in need an amp and a dac to fit with these. All this for my desk setup. That was also the condition. The LSX were on sale, Almost 40% off. Too good to pass and it would have been better than anything I own anyway. So if I don't know the other speakers sound on the market, and as I first entry in to the audiophile world, I can't be too disappointed. Anyway, I could send them back. But I took your opinion in account and especially since I prefer warmer and fuller sound by nature. What the heck I know in the end. Everything is still a rumor to my ignorant ears. So I pulled the plug on the KEF. Of course I'm happy with them. Because I can from some Sony's BT box that sounded great. Really for what it is. But I keep your opinion and taste mind when I'll upgrade and be able to hear these nuances you mentioned. But in the ned, ignorance is bliss, KEF are small for my desk, they look great too (the Dentons too OMG), they sound great, I dont have to find an amp and a dac that fit the bill and the size.
Your channel will grow for sure. The camera loves you. So views will grow bigger if you carrying on the good work (of course, we need knowledge in the end). You'll attract authentic and grounded people. I think we're also glad to find someone that is exploring cheeper options and tell us about these. Sometimes they are so gems in there and being an audiophile can be a pricey passion.
I would have died for a video that explore desk setups at different budgets. Or different solution for a 1000€/€ budget for instance. Cheaper dac and amp, pricier speakers and vice versa. You collect a lot of new comer and be an enabler.
I don't drink coffee but I sure feel like relaxing watching you. Thank you for sharing your love for the sound.
Sounds like a great year! Wishing you an even better one.
Thank you brother, for the transparency in how you did last year and also access and thought process in building your viewership.
My own journey in audio changed in 2024 because of the WiiM Ultra and Darko and your channels.
The WiiM Ultra made me transition from headphones and IEMs mostly to my first desktop setup: Roon Core (Mac Mini)>WiiM Ultra to Geshelli Jnog (AKM) >Arcam A25>Kef Q Concerto Meta.
The journey remains personal, music first, but no longer just in my head.
Here’s to a new year in the hobby
Cheers
That is awesome!!!
I have just started collecting the Polk xt series speakers… slowly over time to fit my budget. Economical is always good, as a lot of other channels else seems to think people who love music are rich… and I would say we have a rich culture, but maybe not a rich pocket book!
At this point I just like your format and your polished but still bloopered and dad joked content...doesnt matter to me what youre talking about I'll still watch....but I do like the cheaper stuff more cause I can actually "play along" lol anyway keep up the great work, shake them haterz off, and keep the vidz comin'...Much Love, Many Blessings, and More Success for the New Year!!!! 😊
Congrats Randy, grab a cup of coffee! I have a nice HT setup, all equipment in a rack in a closet in the lower level. But, I would really like to find options for listening to 2-channel music in the same location. Just don't know if that should be using old LPs, old CDs, or a streaming service, like Spotify. I would love to be able to do this without having to go down to the rack. For me, I need a 101 on getting the best 2-channel sound.... Thanks for your video, I will now go back a watch a few that peak my interest that I didn't see. Cheers!
Thanks!
Wow! Thank you so much!!!
People long for that lovely Macintosh blue vibe it represents the early high Fidelity market.
Thank you for an awesome year of you being you. I know it’s against your brand but I really enjoy when you veer upstream , the stuff in the $2000 mark specially speakers seems to be where a lot of innovation is happening and that is expensive but it seems like that price point is performing where stuff that used to be in the 10k plus used to be just a few short years ago
I've been with you since way back. I miss the ratings toys you used to award the products you compared. I also miss seeing you without glasses. Thanks for all!
This is your best video of the year. Just keep doing what you do!!!
Really is the best video I’ve put out in 2025
Thanks for investing the time to inform and entertain! I enjoyed the year in review. It's time for me to subscribe and show my support in a tangible way! Just subscribed! Keep 'em coming.
I look forward to your videos about the audio industry. I find it very interesting how we have such an illusion of choice when it comes to manufactured products, especially through mainstream channels.
Just as long as we never see those pastel Chinese headphones again…lol Happy New Year and keep the vids coming.
Thanks for the year in review debrief! You were one of the first UA-cam channels I started following when I began my HiFi journey and I have learned a lot from you. I do not view you as the Cheap Audioman but as the "Value" Audioman (I know it's not as catchy) so please continue to explore the full price range ($0-$2k) of products in search of the best values in HiFi. For 2025, please do a little more comparisons when reveiwing new products and I always enjoy building different systems at different price point videos. Keep up the great work and best wishes for continues success in 2025!
Thanks for a great year, Randy!
Love the channel. Finding gear which replaces the expensive gear from the past but brings the warm sound back at that affordable level. It does not have to be the cheapest as you still want quality components. Why is vinyl popular again. Do maybe some vinyl record players.
Oh touchy subject maybe, headphone amplifiers. A very reasonable priced headset with a "cheap" amplifier will out perform expensive speakers if you are on a tight budget, but want amazing sound. I get it not for everyone.
I agree with your conclusion, i believe budget options are the most interesting. On my end i am always interested in bang for a buck! Value to performance is important for me anyway. Keep up the good work!
Thank you! Happy 2025, keep up the great work!
Happy new year mate. Hopefuly the year 2025 for those 300k subs ☺️
Happy New Year to you and yours Randy! Love your channel and have been a longtime subscriber (ever since the wobbly kitchen table). Keep doing what you do, your way and any other way you see fit (love the mixed content whether cheap or expensive ) ! I think it's both informative, entertaining and I sure appreciate your sense of humor! Again, Happy New Year to all!
Gonna watch more of your Vijay-os get your counts up. Happy new year to u and yours
Looking forward to the lowering of prices on good older newish equipment. Happy New Year!
Randy! Happy New Year to you and yours. I hope everyone world wide has a much better 2025 than 2024. I'm a little concerned though - 2025 is starting with W.T.F..
Be safe, happy, healthy, prosperous and enjoy your music folks!
YES!!!!! Stick to you roots. I found you late. But I've seen many videos, and the only one's i end early are high dollar components.
So much fun on AliExpress! It’s like an adventure, from beginning (finding something cool or interesting) to end (it actually being delivered to you).
I’ve recently been into single driver full range open baffle listening. Two pairs of Aiyima drivers arrived the other day and I am very impressed.
My next purchase on AliExpress is probably going to be an amplifier. Maybe even the one you reviewed.
I bought the Douk Audio ST-01 Pro from AliExpress (Amp).
Powers my Acoustic Research AR18LS speakers with inputs from my Fluance RT82 (upgraded acrylic platter and AT VMN95EN cartridge and stylus), my PC, my Sony BluRay player (for CD's) and Bluetooth from anyone's phone.
It was Cheapaudioman's review that convinced me to pull the trigger and buy it!
I haven't looked back, it's INCREDIBLE bang for buck quality!
Favorite CAM video of the year: the emotive, second video on Advance Paris 10. It captured so eloquently why many of us listen to music in the first place. Not recommended to strict super-gear-heads, hyper-techie-analytic folks (as some of the comments revealed) - best spend your time at ASR for optimal rewards and life enrichment.
Hey Randy. I have become a big fan of yours and you have been my reference to get my audio gear, from the Emotiva TA-100, the Sony speakers, the WiiMs ( I have the mini and the pro plus), a Sony blu-ray with coax output, I really love the sound I got from your recommendations. Thanks for your good work and happy new year to you too from the Pacific coast of Mexico
Congrats man, I've been subscribed since your backyard days. keep up the good work.
Great year young man! Titles are the best way to capture us, but like u said, without making it click bait. As soon as the trust is lost between, us your customer then its just like another business. Glad you've stayed true to u and what u do. Ofcourse your going to do promotional videos, just keep it real, man. Talk to us like you did here and people will see that as honesty, which will increase our good perception of you. Take care and best of luck in 2025!
Love your channel man❤
More cheap audiophile stuff, more views. It’s why I started watching you. Thanks man.
Cool video! Nice work Cheap Audio Man!
I’m starting 2025 by assembling all the 2024 gear, now that I can get to that part of the room!
The WiiM Ultra documentation is as awesome as the unit itself! To me, good docs are so rare and wonderful that I have to give it a shout-out! I’m truly impressed with WiiM. Thanks, Randy, for the heads up about that gear!❤
Randy, loved the videos from your Italy trip. As to products if you like something trust your gut, if you think it's interesting a lot of us will be interested also.
A common amp purchased on Ali express is the Dartzeel D5pro clone.
The highlight of the year was the Tom Evans Audio Design Mastergroove repair video by Mend it Mark. We got an insight into the true quality of a high end audio component. On the SMSL PO100 Pro that's the low point.
Here's a fun idea: How about inviting Billy Idol and Steve Stevens to test out some 'cheap' audio setups? It might be a challenge to pull off, but imagine the reaction and how epic it would be! Worth a thought?
If I didn't already have a good little CD player I would get that SMSL it's small affordable and has great outputs. Seems like a great deal.
I'm just trying to figure out something really good to hook up to my new M4 iMac. "Near Field" seems right. Don't want anything too big. Tubes and all that seems silly for a system that might just be doing computer beeps and sounds sometimes. Streamers don't seem needed when the source is my computer. I want great sound, at low volume and a minimal look and not a bunch of extra stuff. That's the video I'm waiting for. Thanks. Happy 2025.
Random find a few months ago and enjoy your ‘entertainment’ and reviews. On your recommend I got a wiim ultra. Being Canadian and suffering currancy exchange changes the ‘advertised’ price point, though still an unbelievable product! I’d do my own review if I knew what I was doing, but I’ll leave that up to you. Keep it cheap, my man, we’re all pinching pennies to feed our ears.
That Ali Express video was great for three reasons:
1. We have *all* wanted to buy one of those knockoffs just to see what you get
2. You were having a great time and it showed.
3. There was a little more snark than usual, so it had me laughing out loud.
Starting from the title of the channel, even I love to see the Wharfedale Linton, I prefer you discover for us cheap audio equipment. Thank you from Canary Islands, Spain.
I don't think anything startling happened with audio quality this year, what you could say is the bang for buck you're now getting is startling compared to even a few years ago. The "high-end" is still doing what the high-end does, which is empty the pockets of people with expendable income.
Evening from the UK and happy new year! Really like this channel - learning a lot as I get back into listening to music. I’d love to see a video when you recommend music tracks that really get the best out of a set up. We have similar music taste - which helps :-)
Thanks for sharing your UA-cam thoughts. I just started a channel and am soaking in as much good advice as I can.
I'm only speaking from my point of view. But I have always loved audio equipment but had let my interest wane for different reasons. One of main reasons is I was watching many frustrating videos on UA-cam. In the category of politics. But I want to just leave that nonsense behind and reignite my interest for things I love. And one of my biggest love is music and audio equipment. So I started to watch your very good videos the last few months. And you have me hooked. I am subscribed. Keep up the good work. FYI I have been into vintage speakers lately and made some nice purchases. I'm now ready to upgrade my audio equipment.
Can’t wait for review of the PXN 308E!!! 🤣🤣🤣
🎉🎉🎉 congrats brother, keep going 2025! Stick to the name/roots, cheap audio man the reason I subbed 😂
Happy New Year Randy. Will you be at the FL Audio show this year? Wife and I are driving to it this year and we're both hoping to see you there. All the best ...
No ceiling on youtube! I love hifi channels, you an Darko are the best! Would be great to collaborate in some way, one of my most popular videos was about Music Assistant, a streaming software for home automation systems!
Douk (Nobsound) just released the A5 amplifier, which is TPA3255 based with adjustable high pass filter with separate Aux output for a powered sub. Has a very nice look and it takes up to a 48v power supply. I’d like to see a video about that.
I think I have it somewhere. I’ll be doing a video
Perhaps it was done and I missed it, but I would love to see an updated sound bar replacement set up video. With and without arc options so the family doesn't have to learn multiple remotes.
Randy - interesting video. Thanks. I’m curious as to what your 5 least watched videos were?
"Entertaining videos on cheap stuff"....yes Randy, you are both entertaining and very funny.....and you are also great at talking about the "stuff" that bats above its weight. This hobby is fun and too many people take themselves way too seriously....you don't and its refereshing, but you are also very good at it. Bring on 2025!
You make very interesting ads. Among the very few ads I don't skip - 'cose they are interesting ☝☝😀
Maybe budget AV receivers? I know I know, most here are 2 channel people....I am too, but I just decided to dive into some home theater stuff and have tested 5 receivers. I might be trying to get sound that will never match my 2 channel budget setups. So far the budget winner is Onkyo NR6100...BUT cannot find that perfect music sound stage even in Pure Direct. Room correction software or manual...I'm still beating my head into the couch cushions. lol
Happy new year!!
Hi Cheap Audioman Randy. Thank u for the reviews. I realy like to watch every week to you content. I like the real expensive stuff like Goldnote. Realy enjoying cool smart devices like Fosi or Wiim. I,am an B&O enthousiast. It would bij nice to review some of there nice products the next year. Like the amazing theatre soundbar or the sweet wifi speakers like the Beosound Balance, Emerge or level ( or all three of them) have a great year and hope to see more content and reviews. Cheers Hans from the Netherlands👍🏻
Actually bought the Evo 150 Delorean ... partly inspired by your review (and Old Guy HiFi), though here in Europe they are cheaper (paid €2100 near Black Friday). Amazing if you want a hi-ish end all in one solution (not sure that's your main audience 🙂).
Thanks Randy!
Quick comparison suggestion : MF A1, VMV A1 and the last cheap class A you reviewed lately.
That gaming head set really suits you 😮
Love the candor, Randy.
I hope you reviewed the Kanto Ren speakers someday !
Cable warmers. Bluetooth reclockers. WIIM Drones. Looking forward to 2025!
Thank you for the back end details regarding how the UA-cam thing works. This helps understand what's going on between playing the game ..and who you are.
I do blame the Algorithm for manipulating us all to dance like monkeys for the clicks... but like you said.. this is your income .. so, that's a fine line to walk.
Have you ever reviewed the Micca OoO Passive Slim Bookshelf Speakers, since they can be mounted horizontally I was interested.
It's been awhile since you reviewed any Dayton Audio speakers. How about reviewing their $200 new(-ish) "Classic T65" towers?
Thank you Randy!
I can recommend the Aliexpress Brz Hifi Marantz MA9 clone. Again, roughly $250. It's based loosely on the 1999 MA9 mono block amps. It's class AB, biased towards class A and gets pretty hot. It could probably do with better case design/circuit layout to manage this, but insane sound for the price.
Hope you geta change to look at more topping stuff,
like the pa5 2 plus amp.
You're right, stick to your roots, best value for money and great deals on cheap stuff. I like good deals on Aliexpress, not the cheapest but best preamp under $50, best amp under $100, best streamer under $75, best speaker $100, $250, $600. Best deal for Dac setup with streamer and cd player. Good audio on the cheap.
Congratulations on a great 2024, and I'm excited for 2025.
Good point on overdoing content. Personally, when i see a content creature pumping out videos, it comes off as desperate in a sense. Example, i loke watching Lost in vegas. They react to music. They are really good at leaving me wanting more because they pace themselves. Of course thats a different type of content but still holds true in my way of thinking, like i said not coming off as just making content for views.
Your Quality has gotten much better from the editing to little add ons in your videos. That makes me feel like you are taking your time and evolving in this business venture.
Products, good inexpensive with good quality and with your seal of approval is what i Personally enjoy best. Like amps etc. Im a hometheater guy usually, adding to that could also gain some followers. I dont think its a must to have a hometheater if you base it on multichannel amps or subs. Probably a fine line to viewers though so be careful if you decide to go that route as well, without theater knowledge. Just my thoughts man, take care!
I'm saying it again. GO BIG RED!
BTW overkicking your coverage is supposed to be a bad thing right?
Happy New Year!
I'd like to see a video on the differences between the Denon Home Amp and the Marantz M1. People say they're the same, but that extra $200 for the marantz must buy you something, shouldn't it?
Great re-cap! I was drawn to your channel because you review cheap audio equipment. Keep doing that!