Audyssey vs Dirac Live: Is the Upgrade Worth $349?
Audyssey came free with your receiver. Dirac Live costs $259 to $349 on top. Here is what the money actually buys, which rooms need it, and when Audyssey XT32 is already enough.
Software
The apps and settings that make a good system better: lossless streaming, room correction, and the free software that punches far above its price.
The 2026 Streaming Price Hikes: Who's Worth It Now
Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube Music all raised US prices in 2026, and Tidal is next. Here is what each service costs now, what you get for the money, and who the hikes make the worst buy.
Dirac ART Explained: What Active Room Treatment Does (and Costs)
Dirac ART uses your speakers and subs to shorten bass decay at your mic positions. Here is what Active Room Treatment actually does, which receivers support it, what the $299 add-on costs, and what has been tested.
Dirac Live Alternatives: What Actually Works in 2026
Dirac Live is not the only way to fix your room, and for a single-sub stereo system it may not be the smartest. Here is what every alternative costs, what it needs, and what the blind tests actually found.
HouseCurve: Room Correction From Your iPhone (Android Options Too)
HouseCurve turns an iPhone into a room-correction tool: measure your room, generate PEQ or FIR filters, and tame bass peaks. Full iOS guide plus what Android users can do instead.
REW vs Dirac Live: Which Room Correction Should You Use?
REW is free and flexible; Dirac Live is paid and automated. Here's how they really differ, which one fits your setup, and the best REW alternatives.
Spotify Lossless in 2026: Is it actually hi-fi, and what gear do you need?
Spotify Lossless is here, but are you really hearing it? Learn what it is, why Bluetooth matters, settings to change, and DACs or headphones worth buying.
Room Correction Guide: HouseCurve, Dirac Live & REW
From free apps like HouseCurve to full Dirac Live ART setups, here's how audiophiles tune their listening rooms without an acoustic engineering degree.