It is with great sadness that we report on the passing of Ernie Fisher, Founder, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The Inner Ear and the voice behind Audio Perspective.

Ernie began his industry adventure in 1964 working at a small boutique audio retailer honing his skills and developing a vast knowledge of audio gear and would eventually move on to join Bay Bloor Radio in the mid 70s. From there he moved on to the areas of wholesale and distribution, all the while continuing to learn while keeping his passion for music alive. After a few years of travelling across North America, it was time to take up roots and once again return to retail, this time as a specialist in High End audio which had now become his passion as it enhanced his appreciation of his first love, music.

1984 brought the need to slow down during his recovery from a medical issue. During this timne Ernie noted a heightened sense of hearing. This made him look even deeper into the technology – and the experience of achieving the ultimate sound possible. Leaving the retail store behind he started selling independently which gave him the opportunity to experiment with more equipment and in the process, started putting his notes on paper, This was the birth of The Inner Ear and it’s pledge to “Discover High End”.

Ernie finally put his words in print with the Introduction of Volume 1 of The Inner Ear Report in the summer of 1986 with a cover that read, “For The Sake of Music – An (Underground) Guide To Better Audio”. Over the next 20-plus years The Inner ear would grow from a 44-page “booklet in black and white to a full-sized, 130-page glossy magazine featuring multiple, award-winning writers, honest editorials, special features and more. Ernie was in his element and his goal – to educated and inform, which dated back to his early days in retail, was achieved.

As the print industry changed, so did The Inner Ear and Ernie was quick to embrace social media as a way to continue publishing his notes and reviews. He was just as a eager to discover and review emerging new audio technologies all of course, “For The Sake of Music”.

To the very end, music – and the unfettered enjoyment of it, was always Ernie’s passion. When he was not meditating or enjoying a walk or bike ride on the finest of days, you would always find him listening to music.

Ernie left us on Saturday, April 5, 2025 having just started his 90th year. He leaves behind a legacy spanning six decades during which time he touched so many lives and made so many friends.

He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.