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At Your Service Dear Editor: Having read innumerable words of praise and damnation in the pages of Audio, I find that one particular subject has, unfortunately, been pushed aside in favor of disposable audio and mass merchandising. In that today's technology, regard less of price, virtually ensures respect able performance, what might resurrect itself as a tangible consideration when contemplating the purchase of audio equipment? The subject of service to the customer, not only during the sale but, more important, after, has faded into oblivion for many audio buffs. Increasingly, ser vice after the sale is encompassed by your local independent television, radio and bicycle repairman who, through years of experience, knows all there is to know about your just-released equipment. I wish Audio would look at "State of the Art" service, such as that rendered by one of the last great names in American audio, our own McIntosh Laboratory. Often exposed to the incessant banter of "new and improved," I will contentedly remain a member of the McIntosh family. Their concern for the customer is, like their equipment, absolutely first rate. Michael J. Rodney Pineville, N.C. Editor's Note: Nominations are now open for more such recommendations. -E.P. Defending Auto Coverage Dear Editor: In a past "Signals & Noise" column, reader Robert T. Shaw wrote to object that an entire issue devoted to auto sound was a step toward low fidelity. He also objected to your inclusion of Lirpa products. I believe that high fidelity should not be limited to the home but be extended to the car as well. Since I spend a lot of time in my automobile, I appreciate good sound to make trips more enjoyable. With some of today's high-quality mobile components and with careful selection and placement of speakers, I can produce a level of fidelity in my sedan that can rival many of the better home systems. I am also looking for ways to upgrade my car system and thus appreciate any literature that can keep me informed of the latest equipment available. For those audiophiles who don't want your publication filled with "wasteful" material, let them drive to their office with a Tchaikovsky overture trying to squeeze out of 3 1/2-inch factory dash units or cruise down the interstate with a 4W Montgomery Ward cassette radio grossly distorting a Beethoven symphony. As for products from Professor I. Lirpa, I find nothing wrong with a little sense of humor, which obviously some readers seem to lack. Lirpa makes for a refreshing pause in a highly sophisticated publication. I commend Audio for its excellent coverage of the entire spectrum of the hi-fi world as well as a little humor. Keep up the good work! Lonnie Wong Denver, Colo. It's a Must Dear Editor: I do agree somewhat with reader David Lansdown's point that you could review more affordable audio gear ("Signals & Noise," February 1987). I must say, though, that Audio's features and columns, along with such indispensable articles as the blank cassette comparison you ran in June 1986 (which I still refer to), make your magazine "must" reading each month. Tom Quarles Production Director, KILO 94 Colorado Springs, Colo. Tchaikovsky Found Dear Editor: In "Behind the Scenes" (January 1987), Bert Whyte says that neither Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 3 nor his "Manfred Symphony" is available on Compact Disc. I have both works on CD: Symphony No. 3 (Chandos 8463) by the Oslo Philharmonic under Mariss Jansons, and the "Manfred" (Angel CDC -747412-2) by the Philharmonia Orchestra conducted by Riccardo Muti. The Symphony No. 3 is also avail able on DG with Herbert von Karajan conducting the Berlin Philharmonic, a fairly recent release. Jack Bowers Wilmette, Ill. (Source: Audio magazine, Aug. 1987) = = = = |