Reflecting on my journey, I often wonder how I ended up here, immersed in the world of vintage audio. It all began a few years back when I dove headfirst into the realm of headphones. My enthusiasm led me to become an active member of the Head-Fi community, where I dedicated myself to reviewing headphones, digital audio players (DAPs), headphone amplifiers, and DACs.

Instagram soon became a platform for sharing my audio adventures. Under the handle HeadFiYYC, a nod to Calgary’s airport code, I connected with fellow audio enthusiasts, sharing insights and experiences about the latest gear and music.

However, there came a point when I decided to step back from reviewing. While I cherished the writing aspect, I realized my focus had shifted more towards the equipment than the music itself. The initial joy had diminished, prompting me to return to the essence of my passion: the music.

Despite stepping away from reviews, my love for headphone audio persisted. My collection, featuring a Sony WM1A DAP, Schiit Jotunheim DAC/Amp, and ZMF Ori semi-open, planar magnetic headphones, remains a testament to that phase. It was a learning experience that introduced me to gear that continues to enhance my listening pleasure.

Music has always been a cornerstone of my life. Growing up in South Africa, I was surrounded by a rich tapestry of musical influences, from school choirs and local Highland Gatherings to live musical theatre and music lessons. My parents’ modest music system filled our home with classical, pop, and folk tunes, nurturing my appreciation for diverse musical genres.

From Childhood to Audiophile

For anyone who identifies as an audiophile or simply a music lover, the experience of music evolves alongside life’s changes. From my childhood to the headphone phase, each stage has played a pivotal role in shaping my musical journey.

Music has a way of adapting to circumstances. Space constraints might lead to portable devices or mini systems, while budget limitations might steer one towards pre-owned equipment. Lifestyle changes, such as moving into a house, can open up possibilities for multiple systems across different rooms.

My journey has been geographically diverse, spanning Holland, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), South Africa, Canada, Japan, and the UK. Each move brought lifestyle changes and new music systems, all contributing to my current path.

Building Systems Across Continents

When my family relocated to Canada in the early ’80s, we upgraded our stereo system. I inherited some of the older components, forming my first personal setup. As a teenager, I was thrilled with my newfound audio gear.

University life required a more compact system suitable for dorm living, prompting me to continually evolve my audio setup as I transitioned through different living situations. Each phase introduced new equipment and a renewed appreciation for music.

In the early ’90s, I moved to Japan to teach English, selling most of my gear. My nomadic lifestyle led to a reliance on mini-component systems and portable devices, yet my love for music remained unwavering.

A Return to Vintage Audio

Fast forward to the early 2000s: back in Japan, now married, and residing in Tokyo. With more space and a daily commute, I balanced a home system with portable audio solutions. The iPod became indispensable during crowded commutes.

Upon returning to Canada and purchasing a house, I rediscovered vintage audio. A visit to my mom in Vancouver unearthed a Technics SA-500, and soon after, I acquired a Sansui AU-555 from my brother. Restoring these pieces unveiled the timeless beauty of vintage sound.

Today, I have a dedicated audio room and a growing collection of vintage gear and vinyl records. My Instagram handle has evolved to @AudioLoveYYC, reflecting my ongoing journey.

Sharing the Love for Vintage Audio

I am eager to share my experiences with vintage audio, focusing on the love of music and the lifestyle it embodies. My writing will delve into system growth, environment-specific setups, and record collecting, with a special emphasis on jazz.

I invite you to join me on this journey, celebrating the timeless allure of vintage audio and the music that fuels our passion.