Q: I read your columns about RF skin tightening. Is there an age you should stop using it? What do you recommend?

A: RF skin tightening machines use radio-frequency energy to heat beneath the surface of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin to tighten sagging skin and smooth over wrinkles, providing a modest, natural face-lift without surgery. I started using one in my mid-50s and saw a noticeable difference within three weeks. It has also caught on with the 30- to 40-year-old age bracket for the cosmetic and rejuvenating effects.

The skin's ability to make elastin and collagen decreases with age. The most effective age range for use is between 30 and 65, with effectiveness falling off gradually afterward. By the time you are 75, the machines are not as effective. It is best to start earlier if possible to build a base, which may help later.

Quality RF machines tend to be expensive, but deals on health and beauty products are often found in the spring. And that is the case this year. Amiro is the industry leader, and besides my own positive experience, they have received praise from publications such as Forbes, Elle, Cosmopolitan and Harper's Bazaar. Using $60 coupon code AMIRO60 at amirobeauty.com reduces the bestselling $439 R1 Pro from the $259 sale price to $199. The code works with the more expensive R3 Turbo models, as well.

The R1 Pro and R3 Turbo have multiple modes and incorporate red light therapy, but the R3 Turbo has an additional mode and requires less time to apply. The R3 Turbo is tempting, but the idea of getting a high-end RF machine for under $200 is very appealing, as well.

A good-sounding deal

Q: My all-in-one stereo that includes a CD player and a cassette player has finally died, and I'm wondering if the TEAC AD-850-SE might be a good replacement. Could you perhaps say a few words about reasonably priced integrated amplifiers and bookshelf speakers to use with the TEAC?

A: "Reasonably priced" can mean a lot of things in the audio world. Here are two speaker-amplifier pairings around $500 and $1,000 that would be a great match to the TEAC CD/cassette combo. Add $15 for a spool of 16-gauge speaker wire to connect the amplifier and speakers, and you are all set.

For a total of $528.98 you can get a $299 Cambridge Audio AXA25 amplifier and a pair of $229.98 Elac Debut 2.0 speakers. The speakers are on sale on Amazon, reduced from $329.98. (cambridgeaudio.com and elac.com)

One of my favorite bookshelf speakers under $1,000 is the SVS Prime Bookshelf, which are $599.98 a pair in black ash finish. The sound is very clear, precise and open, with excellent tonality, a tight, controlled midrange and abundant detail throughout the audible range. Pair them with an NAD C316BEE V2 amplifier (currently $399, on sale from $499) for beautiful sound for under $1,000. (svsound.com and nadelectronics.com)

Send questions to Don Lindich at donlindich@gmail.com. Get recommendations and read past columns at soundadvicenews.com.