Sound care
Forever young
How do you keep the sound of your system young?
Dear music lover, it happens again and again that the sound quality of our hi-fi systems fluctuates without us knowing the technical reason for this. Or we buy a device or an accessory and at some point we have the feeling that it no longer sounds like we experienced at the beginning. Are we just making up our minds? In HiFi, we have known the effect for decades that the sound improves when a 75 ohm terminating plug is used. However, if you take this tool, which used to work well, out of the system after a few years, you will be surprised to find that the sound is even better without it!
How can that be?
In a workshop held two days ago, static charges on a plastic surface of a loudspeaker hailed a demonstration because I had always looked for the fault in the system and in the setup.
It wasn't until the next morning that I noticed the problem. I saw an unusually large amount of dust on the speaker, even though it was wiped off during assembly. After wiping the loudspeaker with a damp cloth the next morning, the usual imaging performance was suddenly back and I got goosebumps after the other. Again - I just wiped the speaker with a damp cloth (pure water).
I would like to take this key experience as an opportunity to talk about maintaining the hi-fi system, including the hi-fi accessories and the room. In my experience, not only the components of the system, the accessories, but also parts of the listening room will change in such a way that the sound potential that is fundamentally possible is far from being reached. My Vortex HiFi products are also impaired in their function in the long term by the environment. You can read below how to keep the sound young forever.
The Vortex HiFi dealers will be happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Demagnetizer
About 20 years ago, demagnetizers appeared that could demagnetize CDs, but also plugs, etc.
Here you can see the Furutech DeMag Alpha (approx. 3.600 €), one of the best demagnetizers I know and my tool and my reference for sound comparisons.
Listening tests in specialist magazines regularly showed a considerable improvement in sound if records, CDs, but also cables and plugs were "demagnetized" on these devices. One point of criticism, however, is that, as a rule, CDs, cables and plugs in the HiFi that are "demagnetized" with these devices do not contain any ferromagnetic components at all - that is, magnetic fields cannot be eliminated because there are none at all.
With our 3D (isotropic) measuring device (see left) we can determine changes in the static magnetic field up to a resolution of 1pT (1 Pico Tesla). We were able to show that most of the objects that show clear changes in sound through a demagnetizer were not (ferro) magnetic, or could not be demagnetized in this way. In Tests However, magnetic components were detected in records. The magnetic fields could be changed by approx. 10% (45pT). The truth is, however, that nothing changes in the signal and CDs or plugs in the hi-fi generally do not show any magnetism.
Our research regarding the formation of structures in materials ( see information ) shows that transient, sound-degrading structures form in all materials, regardless of whether they are magnetizable, non-magnetic, non-conductive, or conductive. These structures (transient structures created by the environment) can be erased by magnetic fields ! Therefore, "demagnetizing" is not about eliminating magnetism in materials, but about ERASING sound-degrading structures in all materials exposed to fields.
But back to demagnetizers in hi-fi. General interest in "demagnetizing" is very low these days, at least compared to the effectiveness of these devices. In my opinion, demagnetizers are the most underrated accessories of all. Demagnetization is THE measure against the "aging" of our hi-fi components, but especially of accessories such as terminals, end caps, connectors, cables, etc.
Demagnetizers are always used when an analog demagnetizing signal cannot be applied through the accessory to be demagnetized. Demagnetizers capable of demagnetizing a CD-sized device, and thus sufficient for most situations, cost from around €500. Some retailers also rent such devices. You should demagnetize your accessories once or twice a year, or as needed. If you want to treat entire cables, you will need quite expensive devices (€2000–€4000) that can also handle LPs, or you can use one of the newer, even more versatile Iraser models from Vortex HiFi.
Degaussing CD
One demagnetization CD with which I have had very good experiences is the DENSEN DeMagic. This CD has brought some setups to a significantly higher level for me. The CD not only processes the connected accessories such as cables, but also processes the devices.
The CD generates an analog signal that flows through devices, signal and loudspeaker cables and deletes structures that are harmful to the sound. So everyone in the analog signal path components are "demagnetized" (sound-damaging material structures deleted). When using streamers, the CD can of course also be ripped and played as a file. A degaussing CD like DENSEN costs around 17 euros.
Iraser from Vortex HiFi
Iraser is a portmanteau of I for Information and E for raser (erasing device). The Iraser arose from our realization that "demagnetizers" (see above) are not about "demagnetization" in the literal sense, but rather about erasing sound-degrading material structures. According to our research, this can also be achieved with specially informed, powerful permanent magnets (N52 neodymium). Simple, uninformed magnets unfortunately have the disadvantage that while the magnetic field erases sound-degrading structures that have formed in the material, it replaces them with other sound-degrading structures – those of the magnet itself.
The Iraser from Vortex HiFi is a wooden rod internally fitted with up to two specially energized supermagnets. Depending on the model, one N52 supermagnet is magnetized diametrically and the other longitudinally. By rotating the rod, an alternating magnetic field can be generated, sufficiently demagnetizing a ferromagnetic object. In our experience, complete demagnetization is not necessary for sonic improvement. With non-ferromagnetic objects (e.g., cables), simply moving the rod over them can erase sound-degrading structures. Plugs are treated with the black end, into which the second magnet is embedded. This magnet is thicker/stronger and thus erases structures even more effectively, for example, on the plugs. By energizing the magnetic field, the object being "erased" is simultaneously given a significant sonic enhancement (see information on the Vortex HiFi website).
The Iraser is available in various quality levels. Its advantages over a traditional demagnetizer are that the cables to be demagnetized do not need to be disconnected from the devices , and that all objects, including stationary and large ones like glass tables, can be treated. Another significant advantage is the price, ranging from only €100 to €400, depending on the model.
The damp cloth
One of the most important "tuning tools" is a slightly damp cloth! No detergent should be in the water. It shouldn't be wet – just slightly damp. This can be used to remove static charges and disruptive textures from surfaces . It's suitable for all surfaces made of plastic, glass (windows/mirrors!), and cables. The effect is often surprisingly significant (I mean that quite seriously – see the introduction above) and costs practically nothing.
A slightly better result can be achieved with swirled water
he. In order to destroy unwanted information in tap water, water can be swirled (water revitalization). Furthermore, standing water (the still water in the house pipe when no water is drawn off) is to be avoided. Let the water run until it gets cooler. I use the water vortex from misterwater to swirl the water, as I use a water treatment system from misterwater. Any other water vortex can also be used, such as the WellnessWirbler water vortex, which is simply screwed onto the tap.
Flowing water
For all materials that can be held under running water, running water is the first choice. The water molecule is an electric dipole. The flowing water is as electrical as a noise, which frees the material from all sound-damaging structures. In particular, energetic material such as informed glass or healing stones (precious stones) should not be demagnetized, but rather kept under running water for 10-15 seconds. Then dry the objects with a cotton cloth. This is like a makeover for the stones. Here, too, swirled water (see water swirler above) shows a slightly better result.
Now where is what to do? - Treatment of the individual objects
Device plugs: RCA Cinch, BNC, XLR RJ45, USB, etc.
Demagnetizing: No analog signal flows through device plugs, so use a demagnetizer or an iraser here.
Eliminating static charges: If the plugs are made of plastic or have a surface made of an electrostatically chargeable material, regularly wipe the plug with a slightly damp cloth (pure water without additives).
Power plugs
Demagnetizing: Treat the plugs with a demagnetizer or an irraser. You should perform this demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: If the plugs are made of plastic or have a surface composed of an electrostatically chargeable material, regularly wipe them with a slightly damp cloth (pure water without any additives). For safest results, unplug the power plugs before cleaning.
WARNING! Do not make the cloth too wet to prevent water from getting into the electrical socket. This could cause an electric shock and a fire!
Signal cable
Analog signal cables
Demagnetize: Demagnetize the cables using a demagnetizing CD, a demagnetizer, or an electric razor. You should perform this demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: To remove static charges from the cable, take a slightly damp cloth and wipe it along the cable. You should repeat this several times a year.
Digital signal cables
Demagnetize: Use a demagnetizer or an electric razor. The primary target here is the plugs. You should perform demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: To remove static charges from the cable, take a slightly damp cloth and wipe it along the cable. You should repeat this several times a year.
Speaker Cables
Demagnetize: Demagnetize the cables using a demagnetizing CD, a demagnetizer, or an electric razor. You should perform this demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: To remove static charges from the cable, take a slightly damp cloth and wipe it along the cable. You should repeat this several times a year.
A special feature is the interaction between synthetic fiber carpets and speaker cables. Due to the fact that the distance is practically zero here, the field strengths with which the static fields of the carpet and the alternating fields of the cable interact are extremely high. I strongly recommend using cable lifts here.
Grounding cable, ground optimizer
Demagnetize: Use a demagnetizer or an electric razor. The primary focus here is on the plugs. You should demagnetize once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: To remove static charges from the cable and plugs, take a slightly damp cloth and wipe along the cable. Repeat this several times a year.
power cable
Demagnetizing: Power cables must be treated with a demagnetizer or an electric razor. The primary focus here is on the plugs. You should perform this demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminate static electricity: Use a slightly damp cloth and wipe along the cable. Repeat this several times a year.
A special feature is the interaction of synthetic fiber carpets and supply lines to the socket strips. Due to the fact that the distance is practically zero here, the field strengths with which the static fields of the carpet and the alternating fields of the cable interact are extremely high. I strongly recommend using cable lifts here. The power strip itself shouldn't be directly on the floor either.
Power filter
Demagnetizing: You can neutralize interference in power filters by demagnetizing them with a demagnetizer or an Iraser. You should perform this demagnetization once a year or as needed.
Eliminating static charges: If the power filter has a plastic housing or if the housing is plastic-coated, wipe the housing with a slightly damp cloth.
CAUTION! Do not make the cloth too wet. It is recommended to disconnect the filters from the power supply while wiping. Under no circumstances should water get into the filters – there is a risk of fire!
Plastic surfaces / glass surfaces
Demagnetizing: A fact that often surprises people in workshops is that glass surfaces also need to be demagnetized/erased. This is especially true for glass tables and glass racks where DECT phones and cell phones have been placed. Within seconds, the sound quality in a room deteriorates when a cell phone is placed on a glass table. Even after the phone is removed, the sound remains severely limited. Therefore, the table must be demagnetized with an eraser .
Eliminating static charges: Plastic, painted, and glass surfaces accumulate static charges. If field sources such as devices, lamps, or monitors are located near a painted, plastic, or glass surface, strong static charges build up quickly. Furthermore, the static fields and the alternating fields of the devices then interact with each other. Therefore, regularly wipe these surfaces with a slightly damp cloth. If you clean surfaces with special cleaners for glass or plastics, be sure to wipe them afterward with a slightly damp cloth. To reduce the interaction between the static "surface fields" and the fields of the devices, I recommend using high device stands to lower the field strength.
Displays / monitors
Eliminating static charges: Displays (device screens), iPads, and monitors are particularly susceptible to static buildup. These devices accumulate static charges, which can be removed with a slightly damp cloth. Be careful not to get the cloth too wet, as this could allow water to penetrate the electronics.
Energetic materials
If you use precious stones or energetic material to improve the music reproduction, you can neutralize the negative charging of the stones with structures that are damaging to sound by rinsing the stones for 15 seconds under running water (tap). This applies in particular to Vortex HiFi and Phonosophie products.
Caution! Natural “healing stones” are to be treated individually depending on the stone. Therefore, please read the relevant specialist literature.
If you use a Vortex HiFi stone on the body, the stone should be held regularly under running water, as it contains negative information from the body about the biofield, aura, quantum field, mental field, energy field, etc. of humans (see Kirlian photography or corona discharge photography of a hand , below).
During an illness , I recommend holding the stone under running water daily, as described above.
The procedure for other stones can be found in the specialist literature.
If you are using a Vortex HiFi interference suppressor made of semi-precious stones such as discs or pyramids , it is sufficient to wash the discs or pyramids at longer, regular intervals or as needed. An interval of one year is generally sufficient. The intervals are longer than with untreated gemstones because the active field applied by our interference suppressors actively dissolves negative information to a large extent. Due to this special property, namely the dissolution of sound-degrading structures, our active field is used, for example, in our 120 mm disc for interference suppression of CDs.
Despite this exclusive Vortex HiFi technology, unwanted structures arise in the long term even in the semi-precious stones we use, which can then be easily removed with running water (see above).
The usual and time-consuming charging of precious stones can be omitted with Vortex HiFi semi-precious stones, as energy is continuously supplied to the stone via our exclusive active field and so no other energy is required for charging. Our semiprecious stones can also be used on the window when the sun is shining, without the high UV component destroying or weakening the effect of the semiprecious stone.
Our interference suppression agents are therefore very service-friendly. I hope I was able to give you a few suggestions that will help you in your favorite hobby.
Our dealers will be happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Yours Norbert Maurer
