So, this could easily be a hoax, but I'm not making it up. From I Like Jam's fantastic and widely-blogged guide to crazy things done by audiophiles (like $6,820 volume controls), comes Altmann Tube-o-Lator, a tiny test-tube of black gunk which you're supposed to paint onto op-amp chips. The result: "Transforms transistor sound into tube sound. Transforms cold and harsh sound into warm emotional sound." It was made by a German company called Altmann: "Altmann Micro Machines is a German company focusing on the deliberate application of technology with the intent to improve customer's wellbeing through procreation of uplifting and joyful experience." At least they're honest: "We are not able to provide an accurate description why the "Tube-o-lator" stuff actually works. Maybe some of you guys out there will solve this mystery and tell us." At just €59 a tube, it's a shame this stuff is out of production. Presumably it would make digital synths sound like real analogue!