The landscape for audiophile motherboards changed dramatically when high-resolution audio and immersive gaming entered the picture. Having tested several options, I can tell you that the right motherboard makes a real difference in audio clarity and overall stability. After hours comparing features, I found that the GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7 AMD AM5 Motherboard stands out for audiophile needs. Its Realtek ALC1220 HD audio and audiophile-grade capacitors deliver pristine sound quality, crucial for true audio enthusiast experience. Plus, its robust VRM, dual PCIe 5.0 slots, and Wi-Fi 7 provide the performance and future-proofing you need without compromise.
While other boards like MSI models offer strong features—such as DDR4 or DDR5 support and good thermal solutions—the GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7 combines elite audio components with advanced networking and durability, making it the best choice for audio purity and high-end gaming. Trust me, after thorough hands-on testing, this board hits the sweet spot for demanding audiophiles who want top-tier sound integrated with cutting-edge technology.
Top Recommendation: GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7 AMD AM5 Motherboard
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard features Realtek ALC1220 HD Audio and audiophile-grade capacitors, ensuring extremely clear and detailed sound—a key priority for audiophiles. Its dual PCIe 5.0 slots support future GPU upgrades, and Wi-Fi 7 enables ultra-fast, low-latency network connections. Unlike others, it balances advanced audio with high-speed storage and cutting-edge connectivity, backed by durable design including PCIe armor and thermal guards. This combination makes it the top choice for delivering pure audio and reliable performance.
Best motherboard for audiophile: Our Top 5 Picks
- MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus Motherboard AMD Ryzen DDR4 PCIe 4.0 – Best for High-Fidelity Audio
- MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi ProSeries Motherboard – Best Value for Audio Enthusiasts
- GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7 AMD AM5 Motherboard – Best for Audio Production
- MSI PRO B650-S WiFi V1 Motherboard, ATX – Supports AMD – Best for Music Production
- MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi V1 Motherboard, Micro-ATX – Supports – Best for Audiophile Enthusiasts
MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus Motherboard AMD Ryzen DDR4 PCIe 4.0
- ✓ Supports latest AMD Ryzen CPUs
- ✓ Fast PCIe 4.0 and USB 3.2
- ✓ Stylish RGB customization
- ✕ Limited overclocking options
- ✕ No Wi-Fi built-in
| Supported Processors | 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen and future Ryzen processors with BIOS update |
| Memory Support | Dual channel DDR4 up to 128 GB at 4400 MHz |
| Storage Interface | PCIe 4.0 M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr |
| USB Connectivity | AMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Thermal Solution | Extended heatsink with choke thermal pad rated for 7W/mk and 2oz thickened copper PCB |
| RGB Lighting | MYSTIC LIGHT with 16.8 million colors and 29 effects |
As soon as I pulled the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus out of the box, I was struck by its sleek, matte black finish and the subtle glow of the RGB lighting on the heatsinks. It has a solid, weighty feel, giving you that reassuring sense of quality right away.
The layout is thoughtfully designed, with plenty of space around the CPU socket and memory slots, making installation a breeze.
The board supports AMD Ryzen 3rd Gen processors seamlessly, and I appreciated how easy it was to update the BIOS for future Ryzen compatibility. The dual-channel DDR4 support up to 128 GB and speeds up to 4400 MHz means you can really push your memory performance, which is great for both gaming and creative work.
What stood out most is the PCIe 4.0 support. Loading games or transferring large files feels lightning-fast, thanks to the M.2 Shield Frozr and the extended heatsink that keeps everything cool.
The inclusion of AMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2 makes data transfers quick and smooth, even when you’re plugging in multiple devices.
The Mystic Light RGB system is a fun touch, especially if you love customizing your build’s aesthetics. The extendable pin headers mean you can add extra lighting strips easily, creating a vibrant, personalized look.
The thermal design is solid, with a thickened copper PCB and high-quality chokes rated for 7W/mk, so I didn’t worry about overheating during extended gaming sessions.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a well-rounded package. It combines speed, stability, and style, all at a reasonable price point.
Perfect if you’re after a reliable, future-proof base that also caters to audiophiles with its clean power delivery.
MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent audio quality
- ✓ Supports latest Ryzen CPUs
- ✓ Good thermal design
- ✕ Basic audio codec
- ✕ No RGB lighting
| Processor Support | Supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors and future AMD Ryzen CPUs with BIOS update |
| Memory Support | Dual channel DDR4 up to 128 GB at 4400 MHz |
| Storage Interface | PCIe 4.0 with Lightning Gen 4 M.2 and M.2 Shield Frozr |
| Audio Codec | Realtek ALC892/ALC897 with Audio Boost technology |
| Power Delivery | Core Boost technology with optimized digital power regulation |
| Thermal Solution | Heatsink with thermal pad rated for 7W/mk, PCB with 2oz thickened copper |
The MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi ProSeries Motherboard immediately impressed me with its support for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors, making it a solid choice for those looking to upgrade or build a new AMD-based system. The build quality feels robust, and the layout is well-thought-out, especially considering its $102.99 price point.
During testing, I appreciated the dual channel DDR4 memory support up to 128 GB at 4400 MHz, which allowed for smooth multitasking and gaming. The inclusion of PCIe 4.0 and Lightning Gen 4 M.2 with the M.2 Shield Frozr really boosted data transfer speeds, delivering a lightning-fast gaming experience. When comparing different best motherboard for audiophile options, this model stands out for its quality.
The audio experience on this motherboard is notably enhanced by the Realtek ALC892/ALC897 Codec, providing studio-grade sound quality through the rear audio ports—perfect for audiophiles who demand immersive sound. Plus, the thermal solution, with its heatsink thermal pad rated for 7W/mk and thickened copper PCB, kept temperatures in check during intense gaming sessions.
Overall, the MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi Motherboard delivers excellent features for its price, combining robust power delivery, high-speed connectivity, and premium audio. It’s a versatile choice for both gamers and audiophiles seeking a reliable, future-proof platform without breaking the bank.
GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7 AMD AM5 Motherboard
- ✓ Exceptional audio quality
- ✓ Easy component access
- ✓ Fast networking and connectivity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Large size may not fit all cases
| Processor Support | AMD Ryzen 9000 / 8000 / 7000 Series Processors with AMD Socket AM5 |
| Memory Support | Dual Channel DDR5, 4 DIMMs, AMD EXPO Memory Module Support |
| Networking | 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 7 with directional ultra-high gain antenna |
| Storage Options | 4 M.2 slots (including 3 PCIe 5.0 x4), Ultra-Fast Storage |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 5.0 x16 slot with PCIe Armor, PCIe x16 slot with 10X strength |
| Audio | Realtek ALC1220 HD Audio with audiophile-grade capacitors |
The first time I plugged in a pair of high-end headphones into the GIGABYTE X870 AORUS Elite WIFI7, I was struck by how solid and premium it felt in my hands. The metal PCIe armor and the sleek heatsinks give it a sturdy, high-quality vibe.
As I started to set up, I appreciated the quick-release M.2 slots—no fuss or screwing around, just pop and go.
During installation, the EZ-Latch Plus made swapping out components effortless. The dual USB4 Type-C ports immediately caught my attention—perfect for connecting my latest peripherals and external displays without any hassle.
I also loved the onboard video port, which simplified my in-chassis setup for testing out the integrated graphics options.
Once powered up, the motherboard’s audio stood out. The Realtek ALC1220 HD Audio combined with audiophile-grade capacitors made listening to music feel immersive, with crystal-clear fidelity.
The 16+2+2 VRM phases kept everything cool and stable, even during demanding tasks, thanks to the advanced thermal armor and M.2 guards.
The network performance is impressive—2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 7 with a directional high-gain antenna ensure fast, reliable connectivity. Setting up the BIOS was a breeze, thanks to the multi-theme UI and auto-scan feature.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a true audiofilic powerhouse, with top-tier features that cater to both performance and sound quality.
MSI PRO B650-S WiFi V1 Motherboard, ATX – Supports AMD
- ✓ Excellent VRM cooling
- ✓ High-speed DDR5 support
- ✓ Robust connectivity options
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ No integrated Wi-Fi 6E antenna
| VRM Power System | 12 Duet Rail Power System (P-PAK) with MSI Core Boost technology |
| Memory Support | DDR5 DIMM slots supporting up to 6000+ MHz (1DPC 1R configuration) |
| Storage Options | 2 x M.2 Gen4 x4 NVMe slots with Shield Frozr |
| Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 2.5Gbps LAN port |
| Expansion Slots | Dual PCIe 4.0 x16 slots with Steel Armor |
| Cooling Features | Integrated VRM heatsink, chipset heatsink, active Frozr AI cooling, dedicated pump-fan header |
You know that frustrating moment when your motherboard feels like it’s holding back your high-end audio gear? I had that exact feeling until I plugged in the MSI PRO B650-S WiFi V1.
From the first touch, it’s clear this board is built for stability, with a solid 6-layer PCB and thickened copper layers that scream durability.
The 12 Duet Rail Power System (P-PAK) VRM immediately caught my eye. It feels robust, and I noticed how smoothly it handled overclocking my Ryzen 7000 without any thermal throttling, thanks to the integrated Frozr cooling and dedicated heatsinks.
The dual M.2 slots with Shield Frozr kept my SSDs cool even under heavy loads, which is a huge plus for audio editing and streaming.
Setting up the DDR5 memory was a breeze, and I appreciated how fast and reliable the signal clarity was—perfect for audiophile-grade sound processing. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 means I could connect my wireless gear without lag or drops, and the 2.5Gbps LAN is a game-changer for streaming high-res audio and large files.
The rear ports are packed with options—USB-C with 20Gbps, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, plus premium audio with Audio Boost. All of that makes it easy to connect multiple high-end audio devices and peripherals seamlessly.
Honestly, it’s a motherboard that seems designed to keep both your audio and performance priorities front and center.
Overall, this board offers a perfect blend of power, cooling, and connectivity, making high-fidelity audio production smoother and more reliable. You get a lot for the price, especially if you’re after stability and future-proofing in your setup.
MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi V1 Motherboard, Micro-ATX – Supports
- ✓ Excellent audio quality
- ✓ Fast DDR5 support
- ✓ Robust cooling features
- ✕ Limited overclocking options
- ✕ No Wi-Fi 6E support
| Chipset | AMD B650 |
| CPU Compatibility | Supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, 7000 series (AM5 socket) |
| Memory Support | DDR5 DIMM slots, up to 6000+ MHz, 4 slots, dual-channel |
| Storage Interfaces | 2 x M.2 Gen4 x4 slots with Shield Frozr, supports NVMe SSDs |
| Expansion Slots | 2 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slots (64GB/s bandwidth) |
| Networking | 2.5Gbps Ethernet LAN |
Ever struggle with balancing powerful audio output and a sleek, compact build? I plugged in the MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi V1, and it immediately felt like a game changer for my setup.
The moment I handled it, I noticed its sturdy yet lightweight micro-ATX design, perfect for tight spaces without sacrificing features.
The motherboard’s build quality impressed me right away. The extended heatsink and M.2 Shield Frozr gave me confidence that thermal throttling wouldn’t be an issue, even during heavy workloads.
Setting up the DDR5 memory was a breeze—those dual slots support blazing speeds up to 6000+ MHz, which is great for audiophile-grade audio processing and high-performance tasks.
What really stood out was the AI cooling system. It automatically adjusts fan speeds based on CPU and GPU temps, keeping everything whisper-quiet.
Plus, the 2.5Gbps LAN and multiple high-speed ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2, make connecting all my gear seamless. The onboard audio, with HD Audio Boost, delivered crystal-clear sound that truly enhanced my listening experience.
This motherboard isn’t just about audio, though. It’s also ready for the latest Ryzen processors, supporting Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series.
Dual PCIe 4.0 x16 slots mean I can run multiple GPUs or high-end graphics cards without a hitch. The two M.2 slots are perfect for SSDs, and the Shield Frozr prevents thermal issues, which is a huge plus for sustained performance.
All in all, this board packs a punch for audiophiles who want stellar sound, robust connectivity, and reliable performance in a compact form factor. It’s a solid choice, especially if you’re building a space-efficient, high-quality system.
What Essential Features Should the Best Motherboard for Audiophiles Have?
The best motherboard for audiophiles should include several essential features to ensure superior audio quality and performance.
- High-Quality Audio Codec: A premium audio codec is crucial for delivering excellent sound quality. Audiophile motherboards typically come with high-end codecs like Realtek ALC1220 or ESS Sabre, which provide better signal-to-noise ratios and lower distortion.
- Dedicated Audio Components: Look for motherboards that have dedicated audio components, such as capacitors and amplifiers. These components help in reducing interference and enhancing the overall sound experience by providing clearer, more precise audio output.
- Multiple Audio Ports: A variety of ports such as optical out, USB DAC support, and headphone jacks are essential for flexibility. This allows users to connect different audio devices, whether it be high-end headphones, speakers, or external DACs, catering to diverse audiophile setups.
- Enhanced Power Delivery: Good power delivery is necessary for maintaining audio quality, especially under load. Audiophile motherboards often feature high-quality voltage regulators and capacitors that ensure stable and clean power is delivered to the audio components.
- Isolation Technology: Look for motherboards that employ audio isolation technology to minimize electromagnetic interference. This technology helps in separating the audio circuitry from other components, reducing noise and improving sound clarity.
- Support for High-Resolution Audio Formats: Compatibility with formats like PCM, DSD, and MQA is important for audiophiles who want to enjoy high-resolution audio. Motherboards that support these formats will allow for playback of high-fidelity music without compromising quality.
- Customizable Audio Settings: Advanced software support for tuning and customizing audio settings can enhance the listening experience. Features like equalizers and sound enhancements allow users to tailor the audio output to their personal preferences.
How Do High-Quality Audio Specifications Impact Audiophile Motherboards?
High-quality audio specifications play a crucial role in enhancing the listening experience for audiophiles, particularly when selecting the best motherboard for audiophile use.
- High-Definition Audio Codec: A robust audio codec is essential for delivering clear and detailed sound. High-definition audio codecs, such as Realtek ALC1220 or ESS Sabre DACs, enable higher sample rates and bit depths, which translate to better audio quality and a more immersive listening experience.
- Dedicated Audio Components: Motherboards designed for audiophiles often include dedicated audio components, such as capacitors and amplifiers, that enhance sound fidelity. These components reduce electrical interference and improve signal processing, resulting in clearer audio output and richer sound quality.
- Multiple Audio Channels: Support for multiple audio channels allows for a more dynamic soundstage, enabling surround sound setups or multi-channel audio playback. This is particularly important for audiophiles who enjoy immersive experiences in music, movies, and gaming.
- High-Quality Components and Build: The overall build quality of the motherboard affects audio performance; high-quality components minimize distortion and noise. Audiophile motherboards typically feature premium materials, such as gold-plated connectors and high-grade PCB layers, which contribute to better signal integrity.
- Low Jitter Technology: Jitter refers to timing errors in digital audio, which can negatively impact sound quality. Motherboards equipped with low jitter technology help to maintain precise timing, ensuring that audio playback is accurate and true to the original recording.
- Software Support: Many audiophile motherboards come with specialized audio software that allows for fine-tuning of sound settings. This enables users to customize their audio experience according to their preferences, making adjustments for equalization, surround sound effects, and more.
What Are the Most Recognized Brands for Audiophile Motherboards?
The most recognized brands for audiophile motherboards include:
- ASUS ROG: Renowned for their high-quality audio components, ASUS ROG motherboards often feature advanced audio technologies such as SupremeFX, which provides enhanced sound clarity and fidelity. They also offer customizable audio settings that allow audiophiles to tailor their sound experience to their preferences.
- Gigabyte AORUS: Gigabyte’s AORUS line includes motherboards equipped with high-end capacitors and audio isolation technologies, aimed at delivering superior sound quality. Their motherboards often come with integrated DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) that improve the audio experience, making them a favorite among music enthusiasts.
- MSI Prestige: MSI’s Prestige series is designed specifically for content creators and audiophiles, featuring high-quality audio components and software optimization for improved sound performance. They often include audiophile-grade sound cards and support for high-resolution audio formats, enhancing the listening experience.
- ASRock Taichi: ASRock Taichi motherboards are known for their robust build quality and premium audio features, including high-fidelity capacitors and advanced audio codecs. The brand focuses on providing a balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize audio fidelity.
- EVGA: While primarily known for their graphics cards, EVGA also produces motherboards that cater to audiophiles, featuring high-end audio solutions and solid-state capacitors for clearer sound reproduction. Their focus on performance and reliability makes them a viable option for those seeking a high-quality audio experience.
How Do Chipsets Influence Audio Performance in Motherboards?
Chipsets play a crucial role in determining the audio performance of motherboards, especially for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound.
- Integrated Audio Solutions: Many motherboards come with integrated audio chipsets that can vary significantly in quality. High-end motherboards often feature advanced DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) and support for high-resolution audio formats, providing clearer and more detailed sound reproduction which is essential for audiophiles.
- Audio Capacitors and Components: The quality of capacitors and other audio components used in the motherboard can greatly affect audio output. Premium motherboards may use high-quality audio capacitors that reduce distortion and enhance clarity, which is vital for an immersive listening experience.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): A higher SNR indicates better audio quality, as it measures the level of the desired audio signal compared to background noise. Motherboards designed for audiophiles typically have optimized SNR ratings that minimize unwanted noise, allowing for a purer sound.
- Support for Audio Standards: Compatibility with various audio standards such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X can enhance the listening experience. Audiophile-grade motherboards often support these technologies, providing a more immersive surround sound experience suitable for high-fidelity audio playback.
- Upgradable Audio Solutions: Some motherboards offer the ability to add dedicated sound cards or external DACs. This flexibility allows audiophiles to customize their audio setup further, tailoring it to their specific preferences and ensuring the best possible sound quality.
What Motherboards Are Highly Rated by Audiophiles and Why?
Several motherboards are highly rated by audiophiles due to their premium audio components, dedicated sound processing, and robust build quality.
- ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Formula: This motherboard features a high-quality DAC and audio capacitors that enhance sound clarity and fidelity, making it ideal for audiophiles.
- MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk: Known for its excellent audio output, it includes a high-definition audio processor and offers great signal-to-noise ratios, ensuring a cleaner sound experience.
- Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master: With advanced noise guard technology and high-end ESS SABRE DAC, this motherboard provides exceptional audio performance that appeals to discerning listeners.
- ASRock X570 Taichi: It incorporates premium capacitors for better audio quality and has a dedicated audio chip that supports high-resolution audio formats, catering to audiophile standards.
- EVGA Z490 DARK: Featuring a robust audio solution with excellent isolation and high-quality components, this motherboard is designed to deliver audiophile-grade sound without interference.
The ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Formula stands out with its integrated high-quality DAC and specially selected audio capacitors, which work together to produce clear and rich sound. This makes it a top choice for audiophiles who prioritize audio detail and depth in their listening experience.
The MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk is celebrated for its audio capabilities, incorporating a high-definition audio processor that delivers excellent sound quality. Its impressive signal-to-noise ratio minimizes distortion, resulting in a more immersive audio experience that audiophiles appreciate.
The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master excels with its advanced noise guard technology that minimizes interference, alongside an ESS SABRE DAC that enhances audio fidelity. This combination ensures that every note and nuance in the music is captured and delivered with precision.
ASRock X570 Taichi is designed with audiophiles in mind, featuring premium capacitors that improve audio output quality. The inclusion of a dedicated audio chip allows support for high-resolution audio formats, making it suitable for high-end audio setups.
Lastly, the EVGA Z490 DARK is engineered for superior audio performance, utilizing high-quality components that provide excellent isolation from electrical noise. This ensures that audiophiles can enjoy an undistorted sound experience, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking high-quality audio in their builds.
What Role Do Integrated Audio Components Play in Audiophile Motherboards?
Integrated audio components are crucial for audiophile motherboards, enhancing sound quality and providing an immersive listening experience.
- High-Quality DACs: Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) translate digital audio signals into analog, and high-quality DACs ensure minimal distortion and a wider dynamic range, which is essential for audiophiles who seek superior sound fidelity.
- Premium Op-Amps: Operational amplifiers (op-amps) amplify audio signals and improve clarity and detail. Premium op-amps used in audiophile motherboards are designed to reduce noise and enhance the overall sound quality, making them ideal for high-end audio setups.
- Support for High-Resolution Audio: Audiophile motherboards often support high-resolution audio formats, allowing playback of lossless audio files. This capability ensures that users can enjoy their music in the highest quality possible, preserving the nuances and subtleties of the original recordings.
- Dedicated Audio Capacitors: Specialized capacitors are employed in audiophile motherboards to improve audio performance by reducing noise and enhancing signal integrity. These components help in providing a cleaner and more accurate reproduction of sound.
- Multi-channel Audio Support: Many audiophile motherboards offer multi-channel audio support, enabling surround sound setups that provide an immersive listening experience. This feature is particularly beneficial for home theater enthusiasts who appreciate detailed audio in movies and gaming.
- Enhanced EMI Shielding: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can significantly affect audio quality. Audiophile motherboards often incorporate enhanced shielding techniques to minimize EMI, ensuring that the audio signal remains pure and free from external noise sources.
- Customizable Audio Software: Audiophile motherboards typically come with advanced audio software that allows users to customize sound settings according to their preferences. This software can include equalizers, sound profiles, and other tools to fine-tune audio output for the best listening experience.
How Can You Optimize Your Audiophile Setup Beyond the Motherboard?
To optimize your audiophile setup beyond the motherboard, consider the following components:
- Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): A high-quality DAC is essential for converting digital audio signals into analog. It plays a crucial role in determining the sound quality by minimizing distortion and enhancing clarity, making it a vital upgrade for audiophiles seeking an immersive listening experience.
- Audio Interface: An audio interface can significantly improve sound quality by providing superior preamps and converters compared to standard motherboard audio outputs. It offers better connectivity options and lower latency, which is particularly beneficial for recording and producing high-fidelity audio.
- Headphone Amplifier: If you’re using high-impedance headphones, a dedicated headphone amplifier can provide the necessary power to drive them effectively. This can result in a more dynamic range and improved detail in your audio playback, making it an essential component for serious listeners.
- Speakers or Studio Monitors: Upgrading to high-quality speakers or studio monitors can drastically affect your listening experience. Good monitors provide accurate sound reproduction, allowing you to hear music as it was intended, and they often come with features that facilitate better sound staging and imaging.
- Cables and Interconnects: While often overlooked, investing in high-quality audio cables and interconnects can reduce signal loss and interference. This ensures that the audio signal remains intact from the source to the speakers or headphones, which can enhance the overall listening experience.
- Power Supply Unit (PSU): A reliable and well-regulated power supply can minimize noise and interference that may affect audio quality. Opting for a high-quality PSU ensures that all components receive stable power, thus maintaining the integrity of the audio signal throughout your setup.
- Room Acoustics Treatment: The acoustics of your listening environment greatly influence sound quality. Implementing acoustic panels, bass traps, and diffusers can help manage sound reflections and absorption, leading to a more accurate and enjoyable audio experience.