The Sound of Design with Mark and Dan

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 epis...

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 Case...

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 a...

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...

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 al...

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...

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 i...

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 S...

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 advanceme...

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 cove...

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! 

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 t...

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...

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 th...

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 one...

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...

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 s...

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 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 th...

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...

Dive into the world of luxury home automation with our latest episode! We delve deep into professionally installed systems that transform homes into technologically advanced paradises. Learn about the elite Savant and Control 4 platforms that offer unparalleled control over every corner of your home. From superior Home Audio systems to the rhythm of Music flowing through every room, our hosts ensu...

" Think Cubicles are a good idea..." Huh? We start by talking about restaurant and plenum spaces, and continue to talk about internet access at work. We keep it going talking about little known issues until after the fact, acoustics, and more.  We discuss LED Video Walls, Budget concerns, and finally  We wrap up with Tech Mythbusters - we debunk common misconceptions within the industry, and get i...

Mark and Dan talk about upgrade paths for different kinds of systems, specifically for Stereo: integrated, separates amplification, bi-amping, upgraded speakers, adding subs, adding sources, adding power conditioners and adding outlets, acoustics, sources including computers and audio interfaces. We also talk about Surround sound: AVRs, speakers, subs, separate amplification, TVs doing the shuffle...

Mark and Dan discuss room by room of the house ideas and inspiration from past projects. These are cool and unique, from Bonus rooms, Bedrooms, Offices, and the Outside, these project stories are sure to inspire your imagination for your next renovation, home build, or upgrade!

Dive deep into the world of stereos with a special focus on the Middle TN high-end residential market. This episode harmoniously blends the allure of classic turntables and vinyl with modern sound formats, tailored for the luxury homes of Nashville, Brentwood, and Franklin. We discuss the evolution of music in opulent living spaces, dive into the nuances of design philosophy, and unravel the signi...