SOUND TRAVELS

We visit an avid audiophile who has the good fortune of owning a legendary amplifier from the Far East headlining the rest of his remarkable audio system.

Edgar Kramer: Do you have a first memory… or a first unforgettable musical experience that left an impression?

Peter Smith: My first memory of music came a long time ago. When I was young I grew up listening to Vietnamese singers. All my pocket money I saved it to buy cassettes tapes and I collected a whole heap of them which I still have, stored with my uncle back in Vietnam. It’s pretty amazing, really, how music can become such a part of you at such an early age.

EK: And later, what was it that started you on the audio equipment quest?

PS: I was always longing to set up a basic audio system at home. I then researched and attended audio shows. Then I found the more you get into it the more you can’t stop. So I think this game will never end…

EK: Yours is one of the most extensive high-end systems we’ve seen, and most of it is made by exotic Japanese manufacturers, including the legendary Kondo Ongaku amplifier. What can you tell us about your choice of components?

PS: I love listening to jazz and blues. And I love the way tube components play those styles of music.

EK: How would you describe the sound you’re getting from your current set-up?

PS: Well at the moment I am very happy but my target is Kondo Kagura monoblocs.

EK: What genres of music do you listen to and who are your favourite artists?

PS: Music goes with mood. I especially enjoy blues and jazz. I find those styles soothing. Especially Lyn Stanley’s voice. What an angel!

EK: What three ‘desert island’ music albums would you choose?

Music goes with mood. I especially enjoy blues and jazz. I find those styles soothing. Especially Lyn Stanley’s voice. What an angel!

PS: Lyn Stanley, Chantal Chamberland and Inger Marie Gundersen.

EK: In what way does music affect your life, your emotions and the way you feel?

PS: Who does not like music? Music has no language, no boundaries and no restrictions: without any doubt music is an important part of our lives. It has an intense effect on our minds and our hearts. You see, music is a great healing medicine, without pills or side effects. One can feel calm and happy by listening to good relaxing, rhythmic music. Music reduces anxiety and alleviates depression.

Whenever music is playing people feel that their pains and tensions are slowly dissipating… along with the strains and chords of the composition.

I like to listen to music in the evening after coming home from a long day at work. For me, music releases all my burdens and pressures.

EK: How do you see the way we will consume music in the future?

PS: I think that already things have changed dramatically for the better, so I am fascinated to hear where all these changes will lead. Interview by Edgar Kramer