I started out with AQ (Speaker +Interconnect) moved up through the brand over time. Eventually landing on Oak (Speaker) + Earth (Interconnects) Full loom. I'm not a fan of mixing and matching...
Most media players allow you to apply ReplayGain: ReplayGain - Wikipedia If you make random playlist, use track gain. As Nicoff pointed out, it is digital volume control. This won't do any harm.
ok, just googled "lou, seattle audio show, july" and here is what i got; Pacific Audio Fest - July 30 - August 1, 2021 - Seattle, WA cool!!! at the Seatac Doubletree Inn near the Seatac...
New AXPONA 2021 Date Announced