United States of Analog | June 10, 2023

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🎙️ Early Video Analysis

What is this video about?

This video documents how host Bob built a Japanese-style “Jazz Kissa” vinyl bar in his home office over the course of three months. He explains what a Jazz Kissa is (a small bar that plays vinyl and serves Japanese whiskeys), shows his transformation process from a cluttered office to a finished bar setup, and promises to showcase audio gear throughout the tour.

What gear, products, or brands are discussed?

• Klipsch speakers [00:02:24] – Third-generation Klipsch speakers positioned on the shelving
• Calax shelving [00:02:12] – IKEA shelving system used for the build, described as inexpensive but sturdy when properly secured and bolted to walls

What are the host’s main opinions or takes so far?

• His old office was a disorganized “hodgepodge” that he “finally had enough of” [00:01:38-00:01:59]
• Calax shelving is a good choice despite being inexpensive – “when done right and secured to the wall it can be quite sturdy” [00:02:16-00:02:22]

Any interesting vinyl records, albums, or music discussed?

• Brutus magazine [00:00:46] – Japanese magazine featuring Jazz Kissas in the Tokyo area, showing different venues, pictures, and the music they play

Were there any funny moments, strong opinions, or memorable quotes?

• “Well wouldn’t you like to know? I’m gonna tell you in just a second” [00:00:17] – playful teasing about what a Jazz Kissa is
• “So gear heads don’t tune out” [00:00:28] – reassuring his audiophile audience

Summary

Host Bob introduces viewers to his newly completed Jazz Kissa project, explaining that what appears to be just a video set is actually a functional Japanese-style vinyl bar. The inspiration came two years ago when his son Caden gave him a Japanese magazine called Brutus that featured Jazz Kissas (essentially small bars that play vinyl and serve Japanese whiskey) throughout the Tokyo area.

Fed up with his cluttered home office filled with books, magazines, computers, audio equipment, and vinyl, Bob decided three months ago to completely transform the space. The renovation process involved deconstructing the room, painting walls and ceilings, and building new shelving systems using IKEA’s Calax units, which he praises for being both affordable and sturdy when properly secured.

The finished space now houses his audio equipment, including third-generation Klipsch speakers mounted on the reinforced shelving. Bob promises to show viewers more gear throughout the video while giving them a complete tour of his DIY Jazz Kissa, combining his passion for vinyl, audio equipment, and Japanese bar culture into a functional home workspace.

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⏱️ Mid-Video Analysis

What gear, products, or brands are discussed in this portion?

[00:02:40] Calax (IKEA storage units) – custom cut cubbies for $600-700

[00:03:38] Hera C3 horn speakers

[00:03:42] McIntosh MHA 100 headphone amplifier (also 50 watts per channel speaker amp)

[00:03:58] Duke One Little Bear speaker/amp switcher with VU meters

[00:04:19] KEF LS 50 Metas

[00:04:30] Marantz 2245 receiver

[00:04:43] Jolida tube amplifier (owned for 20 years)

[00:04:54] Ween Mini Streamer

[00:04:56] Jusheli Labs J2 DAC

What are the host’s key findings, verdicts, or opinions?

[00:02:51] Custom wood cabinets would have cost $10,000 vs. $700-800 for the IKEA solution

[00:03:01] Considers the setup “somewhat disposable” since future homeowners likely won’t want a Jazz Kissa

[00:03:24] Describes the custom bar as “truly one-of-a-kind and spectacular”

[00:03:31] Notes that big horn speakers were featured in many Tokyo Jazz Kissas he researched

[00:03:49] Enthusiastic about VU meters: “Who doesn’t love meters?”

[00:04:09] Praises the Duke One switcher as “reasonably priced, easy to get, and it works fabulous”

[00:04:49] Says his 20-year-old Jolida “still kicks ass”

Any price/value assessments?

[00:02:43] IKEA Calax solution cost $600-700 vs. $10,000 for custom wood cabinets

[00:04:06] Duke One Little Bear switcher described as “reasonably priced”

Any audiophile tips, advice, or how-to content?

[00:04:10] The Duke One switcher allows flexible pairing: “I’m able to use any amp with any speakers that I have in the room. Two amps, two sets of speakers, good to go”

[00:04:21] Mentions ability to swap LS 50 Metas with other bookshelf speakers for flexibility

Any memorable quotes or strong takes?

[00:03:49] “Who doesn’t love meters?” – expressing enthusiasm for VU meters

[00:04:49] “Still kicks ass. I love it.” – about his 20-year-old Jolida tube amp

[00:04:51] “This is United States of Analog, but when I want to go digital…” – acknowledging his channel’s analog focus while showing digital gear

Summary

In this portion of the video, the host walks through the equipment setup for his home Jazz Kissa, starting with the practical decision to use modified IKEA Calax units for storage rather than expensive custom wood cabinets. He explains that his son Caden helped conceive the custom bar design inspired by the strong vertical and horizontal lines found in Tokyo Jazz Kissas, which craftsman Gabe Nieto then built by hand.

The host showcases his diverse audio equipment collection, anchored by Hera C3 horn speakers chosen specifically because large horn speakers were common in the Jazz Kissas he studied. His amplification options include a McIntosh MHA 100 (which he notes has both headphone and speaker outputs plus beloved VU meters), a 20-year-old Jolida tube amp that he still loves, and a Marantz 2245 that’s currently just for display. He’s particularly enthusiastic about a Duke One Little Bear switcher recommended by Randy the Cheap Audio Man, which allows him to flexibly pair any amplifier with any speakers in the room.

The setup balances his analog focus with digital capabilities, featuring KEF LS 50 Meta speakers, a Ween Mini Streamer, and Jusheli Labs J2 DAC for streaming and CD playback. Throughout the tour, the host emphasizes both the aesthetic authenticity to Jazz Kissa design principles and the practical flexibility of being able to swap components and experiment with different combinations, though he admits to keeping some gear like the Marantz receiver connected purely for its visual appeal.

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🏁 Final Thoughts & Verdict

What gear, products, or brands are discussed in this final portion?

[00:05:10-00:05:25] Turntable and Cartridges:

• Technics 1200 Mark 7 (50th anniversary edition) in black with gold tone arm
• Ortofon Blue cartridge (currently installed)
• Nagaoka MP110 cartridge
• Sumiko cartridge with Moonstone stylus

[00:05:40-00:05:53] Phono Preamps:

• IEMA phono preamp with blue tubes
• Schiit Magni

[00:06:16-00:06:19] Other Items:

• Fender Joe Strummer Edition guitar
• Shepard Fairey lithograph

[00:06:57-00:07:04] DIY Elements:

• Kallax shelving unit (modified)
• Metal pins from Home Depot for vinyl storage

[00:07:13-00:07:14] Accessories:

• Eelik robot figures

What is the host’s final verdict or conclusion?

[00:05:53-00:05:55] The host expresses satisfaction with his setup, calling the components “modest, but they get the job done.”

[00:05:57-00:06:06] He’s proud of his completed Jazz Kissa home bar, which he built with friends and was inspired by Brutus magazine.

Any final tips, caveats, or advice for viewers?

[00:05:25-00:05:37] Cartridge recommendations based on sound preference:

• Nagaoka MP110 for “punchy rock and roll sound”
• Ortofon Blue for “cleaner sound”
• Sumiko with Moonstone stylus for “something in between”

[00:06:57-00:07:07] DIY tip: Drill metal pins into Kallax shelving to safely hold vinyl records in place for display without them falling.

How did the video wrap up?

[00:06:09-00:06:26] The host reveals his bar’s name is “Strummer, The Bar” (named after Joe Strummer of The Clash) and shows a membership card.

[00:06:29-00:06:44] He asks for viewer feedback about the project and requests equipment suggestions for future additions.

[00:06:44] Standard channel sign-off: “We’ll see you next time on the United States of Analog.”

[00:06:52-00:07:28] Bonus segment showing additional details like his Kallax vinyl storage mod and decorative robot figures.

3-Paragraph Summary

In this final portion, the host showcases the audio equipment that completes his Jazz Kissa setup. He features a special 50th anniversary Technics 1200 Mark 7 turntable in black with a gold tone arm, currently fitted with an Ortofon Blue cartridge. He also discusses his collection of cartridges, explaining how the Nagaoka MP110 delivers a punchy rock sound, the Ortofon Blue provides cleaner audio, and his Sumiko with Moonstone stylus offers a middle ground. For amplification, he uses modest but effective phono preamps including an IEMA unit with decorative blue tubes and a Schiit Magni.

The host then reveals that his completed Jazz Kissa bar, built with friends and inspired by a Japanese Brutus magazine, is officially named “Strummer, The Bar” in honor of The Clash’s Joe Strummer. This theme is reinforced by a Fender Joe Strummer Edition guitar and Shepard Fairey lithograph displayed in the space. He even shows off a membership card for his personal bar, adding an authentic touch to the Jazz Kissa experience.

The video concludes with the host seeking viewer feedback about his project and asking for equipment suggestions for future additions. In a bonus segment, he demonstrates a clever DIY modification where he drilled metal pins from Home Depot into Kallax shelving to safely display vinyl records, and introduces his robot “bouncers” called Eelik that add character to the bar atmosphere. Throughout, he maintains that while his equipment choices are modest, they effectively serve his vision of creating an authentic Jazz Kissa experience at home.

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Analysis generated from archived transcripts. Channel: United States of Analog — hi-fi gear reviews, vinyl, and audiophile culture.

United States of Analog | June 10, 2023

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🎙️ Early Video Analysis

What is this video about?

The host Bob is showing off his completed DIY Jazz Kissa vinyl bar project that took 3 months to build. He explains what a Jazz Kissa is (a Japanese-style small bar that plays vinyl and serves Japanese whiskey) and documents his transformation from a cluttered home office to this themed audio setup. The video covers both the construction process and the audio gear integrated into the space.

What gear, products, or brands are discussed?

• Klipsch speakers [00:02:24] – Third-generation models, described as “heavy gear” mounted on the shelving
• Calax shelving [00:02:12] – IKEA shelving system used for the build, noted as inexpensive but sturdy when properly secured and bolted to walls with double-thickness reinforcement where needed

What are the host’s main opinions or takes so far?

• On Calax shelving [00:02:16]: Despite being inexpensive, it can be “quite sturdy” when installed properly and secured to the wall
• On his old office setup [00:01:39]: He “had enough” of the cluttered space filled with a “hodgepodge of books and magazines and work and computers and audio equipment”

Were there any funny moments, strong opinions, or memorable quotes?

• Teasing tone [00:00:17]: “What’s a Jazz Kisa? Well wouldn’t you like to know? I’m gonna tell you in just a second”
• Self-deprecating description [00:01:41]: Describes his old office as a “hodgepodge of books and magazines and work and computers and audio equipment”

3-Paragraph Summary

Bob introduces viewers to his completed Jazz Kissa vinyl bar project, explaining that what appears to be a video set is actually a functional bar space. The inspiration came from a Japanese magazine called Brutus that his son gave him two years ago, which featured various Jazz Kissas in the Tokyo area. He explains that a Jazz Kissa is essentially a small bar that plays vinyl records and serves Japanese whiskey, translating “Kissa” as tea house.

After living with a cluttered home office filled with audio equipment, books, computers, and vinyl records for years, Bob decided three months ago to completely transform the space. The renovation process involved deconstructing the room, painting walls and ceilings, and building new storage solutions. He chose IKEA’s Calax shelving system for its affordability while ensuring proper installation with wall mounting and reinforcement.

The construction required careful planning to support heavy audio equipment, including Klipsch third-generation speakers. Bob emphasizes that despite Calax being inexpensive, it becomes quite sturdy when properly secured to walls and bolted together, with double-thickness construction used where extra reinforcement was needed. He promises to show viewers more of the audio gear integrated into this Japanese-inspired listening space.

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⏱️ Mid-Video Analysis

Gear, Products, or Brands Discussed:

• [00:02:40] IKEA Calax shelving unit ($600-700 solution vs $10,000 custom wood cabinets)
• [00:03:38] Hera C3 horn speakers
• [00:03:42] McIntosh MHA 100 headphone amplifier (50 watts per channel speaker amp with meters)
• [00:03:58] Duke One Little Bear speaker/amp switcher with VU meters (recommended by Randy the Cheap Audio Man)
• [00:04:19] KEF LS 50 Meta speakers
• [00:04:30] Marantz 2245 receiver
• [00:04:46] Jolida tube amplifier (owned for 20 years)
• [00:04:54] Ween Mini Streamer
• [00:04:57] Jusheli Labs J2 DAC

Key Findings, Verdicts, or Opinions:

• [00:04:49] The 20-year-old Jolida tube amp “still kicks ass” and he loves it
• [00:04:09] The Duke One Little Bear switcher is “reasonably priced, easy to get, and works fabulous”
• [00:03:24] The custom bar built by Gabe Nieto is described as “truly one-of-a-kind and spectacular”
• [00:03:49] Expresses love for VU meters: “Who doesn’t love meters?”

Audiophile Tips, Advice, or How-To Content:

• [00:04:10] The Duke One Little Bear switcher allows flexibility to “use any amp with any speakers” in the room (two amps, two sets of speakers)
• [00:02:51] Cost comparison advice: IKEA Calax modification ($700-800) vs custom wood cabinets ($10,000)
• [00:03:03] Practical consideration: chose the cheaper option because future homeowners probably won’t want a Jazz Kissa setup

Memorable Quotes or Strong Takes:

• [00:04:49] “Still kicks ass. I love it.” (about the 20-year-old Jolida tube amp)
• [00:03:49] “Who doesn’t love meters?”
• [00:04:51] “This is United States of Analog, but when I want to go digital…” (acknowledging his channel’s analog focus while showing digital gear)

Summary:

In this portion, the host details the equipment choices for his Jazz Kissa-inspired vinyl bar, emphasizing both aesthetic and practical considerations. He explains his decision to use modified IKEA Calax shelving units instead of custom wood cabinets, saving thousands of dollars on what he considers a somewhat disposable installation. The bar itself was custom-built by craftsman Gabe Nieto based on design ideas from his son Caden, who identified the strong vertical and horizontal lines characteristic of Tokyo Jazz Kissas.

The audio equipment selection reflects the horn speaker aesthetic typical of Jazz Kissas, featuring Hera C3 speakers as the permanent installation with swappable KEF LS 50 Metas for variety. The McIntosh MHA 100 serves dual duty as both headphone and speaker amplifier, chosen partly for its appealing VU meters. A key component is the Duke One Little Bear switcher, recommended by Randy the Cheap Audio Man, which provides flexibility to use any combination of the two amplifiers with either set of speakers.

The setup accommodates both analog and digital sources, maintaining the channel’s analog focus while acknowledging modern needs. A 20-year-old Jolida tube amplifier provides “pure tube sound,” while digital capabilities come from a Ween Mini Streamer and Jusheli Labs J2 DAC. The host also mentions his beloved Marantz 2245 receiver, though he admits it’s currently just for display, appreciating its “pretty lights” rather than its functionality in this particular setup.

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🏁 Final Thoughts & Verdict

Gear, Products, and Brands Discussed

• [00:05:10] Technics 1200 Mark 7 50th anniversary edition turntable in black with gold tone arm
• [00:05:18] Ortofon Blue cartridge (currently installed)
• [00:05:25] Nagaoka MP110 cartridge (for “punchy rock and roll sound”)
• [00:05:34] Sumiko cartridge with Moonstone stylus (described as “something in between”)
• [00:05:40] IEMA phono preamp with blue tubes
• [00:05:51] Schiit Mani phono preamp
• [00:06:57] Kallax shelving unit (modified with metal pins from Home Depot)
• [00:07:13] Eelik robots (described as “bouncers to my bar”)
• [00:06:16] Fender Joe Strummer Edition guitar
• [00:06:19] Shepard Fairey lithograph

Host’s Final Verdict or Conclusion

[00:05:53] The host expresses satisfaction with his modest but functional setup, saying the equipment pieces “get the job done.” He’s clearly proud of completing his Jazz Kissa project, naming it “Strummer, The Bar” after Joe Strummer of The Clash.

Final Tips, Caveats, or Advice for Viewers

• [00:05:46] Host admits uncertainty about whether the tubes in the IEMA preamp “do much, but they sure look pretty”
• [00:06:57] Shares a DIY tip about drilling metal pins into Kallax shelving to safely display vinyl records and prevent them from falling

How the Video Wrapped Up

[00:06:29] The host solicits viewer feedback in the comments, asking if they would undertake a similar project, whether it was crazy, and if viewers would want to visit. [00:06:38] He also requests suggestions for future equipment to add to the space. [00:06:44] The video concludes with the standard sign-off “We’ll see you next time on the United States of Analog,” followed by additional footage showing his vinyl storage modification and Japanese robot figures.

Summary

In this final portion, the host completes his tour of the Jazz Kissa setup by showcasing his turntable and phono preamp collection. He features a special 50th anniversary Technics 1200 Mark 7 paired with various cartridge options including Ortofon Blue, Nagaoka MP110, and Sumiko with Moonstone stylus, each chosen for different sonic characteristics. His phono preamp options include an IEMA unit with decorative blue tubes and a Schiit Mani, which he describes as modest but effective equipment that gets the job done.

The host reveals that his Jazz Kissa bar has an official name – “Strummer, The Bar” – paying homage to Joe Strummer of The Clash, with related memorabilia displayed throughout the space. He expresses pride in completing this ambitious project with help from friends, all inspired by a Japanese Brutus magazine. The personal touches, including a membership card he’s created, demonstrate his commitment to authentically recreating the Jazz Kissa experience at home.

The video concludes with the host sharing a practical DIY modification he made to Kallax shelving, adding metal pins to safely display vinyl records, and introducing quirky Japanese Eelik robot figures that serve as the bar’s “bouncers.” He actively seeks viewer engagement, asking for feedback on the project and suggestions for future equipment additions, while acknowledging both the ambition and potential folly of his undertaking with characteristic self-awareness and humor.

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Analysis generated from archived transcripts. Channel: United States of Analog — hi-fi gear reviews, vinyl, and audiophile culture.