The Sound of Design with Mark and Dan

The Sound of Design with Mark and Dan

Are you ready to embark on an electrifying audio adventure? Introducing ’The Sound of Design with Mark and Dan” - the podcast that takes you on an exhilarating journey through the captivating realm of custom technology! Join us as we unveil the sensational tales of Nashville’s very own Dynamic Duo of AV Designers. With an extraordinary blend of formal education and a wealth of experience in audio, video, post-production, and system design, these Tech Titans have left their mark everywhere they have been, from Hollywood movie sets, and Video Games, to the Music Industry, and High-End Residential system design. Join us for stories that will transport you to the heart of their triumphs and challenges. But that’s not all! They’ll also unravel real customer problems and empower you with their unrivaled expertise. Don’t miss out on this thrilling auditory expedition into the mesmerizing world of custom technology. Tune into ’’The Sound of Design with Mark and Dan” and let the excitement begin!

Episodes

April 1, 2024 44 mins
This episode explores the debate between active and passive speakers. The hosts discuss the differences between the two types of speakers and the benefits they offer. They highlight the customization and accuracy of active speakers, as well as the access to different amplification options with passive speakers. The trade-offs between aesthetics, performance, and budget are also discussed. The episode concludes with a discussion of ...
  • Mark as Played
    Summary In this conversation, Emily Hughes from Lutron discusses the various aspects of Lutron lighting control. She explains the benefits of lighting control, including the ability to automate and control lights from a smart device. Emily also highlights Lutron's holistic approach to lighting control and their innovations in the industry. She introduces Lutron's product lineup, including the Caseta wireless solution, RadioRA 2, an...
  • Mark as Played
    March 4, 2024 43 mins
    Summary In this Episode, Mark and Dan discuss outdoor audio systems and the common mistakes people make when setting them up. They cover topics such as IP64 rating, metal covers, and what not to do when installing outdoor speakers. They also share their excitement for the warm weather and discuss the importance of enjoying the outdoors. Throughout the conversation, they provide valuable insights and tips for creating a high-quality...
  • Mark as Played
    February 26, 2024 55 mins
    This episode of the Sound of Design explores the world of subwoofers. The hosts discuss the difference between subwoofers and other speakers, emphasizing the importance of room pressurization for a full range sound. They delve into the size and drivers of subwoofers, explaining how larger drivers can produce lower frequencies. The conversation also covers the distinction between active and passive subwoofers, as well as various des...
  • Mark as Played
    February 19, 2024 46 mins
    Summary This episode of The Sound of Design, Mark and Dan cover various confusing technology terms and their differences. The conversation starts with the difference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, focusing on wireless audio transmission and compression. They then discuss the difference between soundbars and surround sound, including the various formats such as 2.1, 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos. They also explain the distinctions between...
  • Mark as Played
    Summary In this episode, Daniel Newman and Mark Powell discuss their top picks for TVs in various categories. They cover the best value in a large size, best value for picture in a midsize, best value in a small size, best aesthetically pleasing television, and best picture no matter the size. They also provide some honorable mentions. The discussion includes factors such as price, picture quality, aesthetics, and processing techno...
  • Mark as Played
    February 5, 2024 43 mins
    Summary In this episode, Daniel Newman and Mark Powell are joined by Josh Gwin from the Macintosh Group to discuss the world of hi-fi audio. They explore the legacy of Macintosh and its impact on American culture. They also highlight the value and accessibility of Macintosh and Rotel products, as well as the affordability and high-quality audio offered by Project. The conversation emphasizes the importance of low noise and low dist...
  • Mark as Played
    January 15, 2024 59 mins

    In this episode, Daniel Newman and Mark Powell discuss the audio brand Sonos. They explore Sonos' history, its shift in design and focus on sound quality, and its impact on the soundbar market. They also discuss Sonos' range of speakers, including the Play 5, Subwoofer, and soundbars like the Arc and Beam. The conversation covers the simplicity and compatibility of Sonos products, as well as the Sonos Amp and Port for custom instal...

    Mark as Played
    January 8, 2024 83 mins

    Summary

    In this conversation, Daniel Newman, Mark Powell and Ryan Phillips discuss Ryan's background in the audio and video industry and his journey to Sonance. They explore the shift in the perception of audio and the importance of understanding the customer's lifestyle when designing audio systems. They also highlight the range of Sonance products, including invisible speakers, and the advancements in technology that allow for a ...

    Mark as Played
    December 18, 2023 66 mins

    Join Mark and Dan with special guest Christian Morales, with JBL Harman, who talks with us all things about JBL, Harman, their research, design philosophy, the story behind Mark Levinson being the inspiration for Revel speakers. We talk about JBL stories, from the JBL flip, to their computer speakers, their influence in car audio, professional theater, Pro Audio, soundcraft, DBX, and more. We cover fun demo tracks and share stories...

    Mark as Played
    December 11, 2023 32 mins

    In an era where we are working from home more than ever, the need to have tech that works for you is a must. It needs to work in a way that is designed for productivity, comfort, and your specific lifestyle. We cover networking, wifi, how to think through the work space, and get the most from your home office.

    Join us as we continue to explore home technology! 

    Mark as Played
    Summary: In this episode, Daniel Newman and Mark Powell discuss various aspects of AV receivers (AVRs) and provide insights into choosing the right one for your needs. They cover topics such as comparing audio technologies, integration with control systems, and additional considerations when selecting an AVR. They emphasize the importance of working with a designer and asking the right questions to make informed decisions. They als...
  • Mark as Played

    We have special guest Steve Pardo on and we talk about Music production for video games. Talk about some of the software that is used like FMOD and WISE, to UNREAL engine and other software, to the creative process required for video game composition and the difference in that and traditional music that has a start and finish. We also talk about Spacial Audio, 360 audio, Dolby atmos, and the roles of leading companies like META, SO...

    Mark as Played
    November 13, 2023 34 mins

    Mark and Dan talk about the Samsung Frame TV, and some of the unique aspects of the very cool technology. From the good and bad parts, to the install, to the audio options, and everything in between. They have been very popular in designed spaces, over fireplaces, in formal living rooms, formal family rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, wine rooms, bourbon rooms, theater hallways and more! We have seen this installed well and poorly, so we...

    Mark as Played
    November 7, 2023 46 mins

    Have you ever wondered why some places just feel comfortable? Or why you like some rooms better than others? Where does that feeling of being cozy come from? Well we have the answers! We cover - What are the common sound issues? Echos, weird reflections, sound pollution from other devices, bass too loud or disappears Types of panels - absorber, clouds, diffuser Placement - Where to place which ones Parallel VS non parallel walls Ac...

    Mark as Played
    October 30, 2023 62 mins

    We take your questions!! This episode goes all over the place, We cover: What is the ideal speaker placement? TV or projector? Which one should I do? Isn't there wireless surround sound? How do I split my cable box legally? Can't I just wire nut all of my speakers together to one amplifier output channel? What's a "promo" TV, speaker, etc… ? What's the box to make coax into hdmi? Or component into hdmi? How do I get the image from ...

    Mark as Played
    October 23, 2023 50 mins

    EPISODE 19 FINALLY ON VIDEO!!! https://youtu.be/Dhi_ds5ghK4?si=DM5Mfz4qdqatjaiH Thank you so much to KEF and David Tavares for coming in to chat about all things KEF. We talk about Uni-Q, wide dispersion, coaxial design, the legacy of the historic brand, design, trickle down technology, THX, demo songs, video games, video game collections, and more! Check us out on youtube now as well, like, and subscribe as we get this going into ...

    Mark as Played
    October 16, 2023 44 mins

    Mark and Dan talk about the rules for Future Proofing your system, and the principles of good design.  From Moores Law, chip driven vs mechanical technologies, analog vs digital technologies, the idea of headroom and more, learn the secrets, and design principles from the pros!!!

    Mark as Played
    October 10, 2023 69 mins

    Mark and Dan talk about video sources and TVs in this episode, covering all things video source including Kscape, 4k Blu-ray, Streaming, Live TV, DirecTV, Xfinity, and more. Then we get into some nity grity on TV tech, so you have everything you need to know before the holidays arrive!! This episode is great for those interested in new TVs, considering cutting the cord, curious about how to get the best source and picture quality f...

    Mark as Played

    Discover the world of Racks, what options you have to put your gear in the right place! if you are building a new home and don't want to see your equipment, or you want to show off your gear and make a statement! Racks are one of the best ways to get your centralized equipment into place! From Custom Shelves and LED lighting to make a jewelry box, or if you need to think about the closet space and how much equipment needs to go whe...

    Mark as Played

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