At Definitive, we believe that every great piece of HiFi carries not only sound, but also the story of the people and vision behind it. That is why we’ve created The Definitive Q&A Series: Beyond the Music. In each conversation, we sit down with our Pillar brands to uncover what inspires them, what drives their pursuit of perfection, and how they continue to shape the future of listening. These are not just products — they are the expressions of mastery, artistry, and dedication that define the world’s finest audio.
And this year, as part of our 50th anniversary celebration, we are bringing everything we’ve got — together with our partners — for what will be our biggest and most ambitious event yet. Pillars of HiFi will be a rare chance to hear, learn, and connect with the legends shaping the sound we love.
Reserve your spot HERE
Now we head off to a brand from Washington state, bringing home that state pride with Shunyata Research. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Caelin Gabriel the owner of Shunyata Research.
On the Edge of Innovation
What’s the idea or product you’ve made that you know changes the game… the one that, when people hear it, they just stop talking and start listening?
I'm not sure I can just pick one! With that said, the Altaira-X ground system and Omega-X QR power cable are two products that define what Shunyata's innovation and leading edge research has achieved in our 27 year history.
When you’re building something new, what’s the obsession? What’s the thing you can’t let go of until you solve it?
My goal is to exceed whatever is the current state of the art by a factory of 2X or 3X. If we can't achieve this we simply won't release the new product. There is no 1%, 5% or 10% increase from version to version, it is either radically superior or not at all.
Roots & Origin Stories
Every company has a spark… a moment where it almost didn’t happen, but did. What was yours?
I wanted to improve my personal system. In my opinion, my system didn't sound good, it sounded electronic and lacking in fidelity. Shunyata Research came about only because I wanted to improve the sound of my personal audio system.
What’s a piece of your company’s DNA that’s been there since day one… and still shows up today?
The unrelenting pursuit of perfection with every product we offer.
Why Definitive Matters
Do you remember the first time your gear ended up in a Definitive room? What did that feel like?
Yes and about time! (as I laugh out loud). Grateful. Proud. Excited.
What is it about this partnership that actually means something to you… not just business, but the way people experience it?
I appreciate the honesty and integrity of Definitive because it's in alignment with our core principles.
The Human Side
What’s the funniest or weirdest thing you’ve ever seen someone do with your product?Take the power distributors and turn them on their faceplate in order to hide them behind the rack. This is the driving force for why I created the Denali and Everest distributors in a tower form.
If there was one fact about your company that would surprise people… the kind of thing they’d tell someone later… what would it be?
Shunyata has no investors and no debt.
Music That Moves You
One album… one artist… the moment you hit play, it all comes alive. Who is it?
The most impactful songs I've ever heard was Rick Rubin's production of Johnny Cash's Hurt. And by the way, Rick Rubin uses our equipment.
What’s the record that’s the time machine for you… takes you right back the second it starts?
Simon and Garfunkel - Sounds of Silence.
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