Walk the halls, corridors and sound rooms of High End Munich 2023 with Tracking Angle editor Michael Fremer, with particular emphasis on turntables, phono preamplifiers and cartridges on the present.
The publish Michael Fremer’s Day 2! | High End Munich 2023 appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
There’s a motive AXPONA is so fashionable. After all, how typically do you’ve a possibility to listen to, for 3 days in a row, high-end stereo tools made by producers from world wide? That’s why over 9,000 folks converged to a suburb in Illinois for the 2023 occasion, and that’s why, for 3 days, the elevators had been full of audiophiles working their method from room to room. Two hundred rooms is usually a bit daunting for one weekend, however attendees did their finest to cowl as a lot floor as attainable.
While tools could also be the primary attraction at AXPONA, it isn’t the one recreation on the town. That would change into clear to you if, like me, you had been standing round shortly earlier than the Record Fair formally opened on Friday morning. There will need to have been 100 folks ready for these doorways to open.
And you may’t blame them, as AXPONA presents a splendid alternative to get your paws on what are very often extraordinarily restricted editions of audiophile LPs, deluxe editions, uncommon vinyl, and new vinyl, together with imports. Some titles had been launched that very same week, and in lots of circumstances solely the early birds had been in a position to seize these titles earlier than they had been gone. Buying records at AXPONA can truly prevent some cash, as the choice for most individuals means buying LPs on-line, which provides transport prices—and by the point you find yourself with a tall pile of wax (as many individuals did) you’ve saved your self so much moola. Below you’ll see the multi-tasking Chad Kassem from Acoustic Sounds on the far proper, attempting to carry court docket and promote bunches of records shortly after the Record Fair opened its doorways. He’s a very good multitasker.
I returned to the Record Fair a number of occasions in the course of the occasion, and when issues slowed down a bit I had an opportunity to talk with totally different distributors. Lisa Rothe from Direct Audio instructed me that vinyl is turning into more and more fashionable with followers of mainstream nation, and an early chicken bought all of the present nation LPs from her, and presumably for resale. Lisa additionally knowledgeable me that MoFi’s 1-Step of Michael Jackson’s Thriller has been certainly one of her best-selling titles:
Tyson Hall from Music Direct instructed me that though they stocked the heck out of the brand new 2-LP 45rpm vinyl of Warren Zevon’s Excitable Boy, ultimately they offered out of all their copies. Also scorching off the press was MoFi’s 1-Step of Elvis Presley’s From Elvis In Memphis, a 1969 launch that noticed Elvis as soon as once more in high type.
Kevin Berg from Elusive Disc stated a very fashionable title was Saturday Night in San Francisco, which that was recorded the night time after 1981’s Friday Night in San Francisco however solely launched final 12 months on the Impex label. Song-wise there’s no overlap between the 2 nights, and Saturday options, amongst different issues, a scorching efficiency of “Meeting of the Spirits,” a John McLaughlin composition that initially appeared on the primary Mahavishnu Orchestra LP, The Inner Mounting Flame. Quite merely, Saturday Night in San Francisco is a will need to have.
It’s all the time good to see Delmark Records on the occasion, as they’re a historic label with previous and new blues and jazz titles and they hail from Chicago. The CEO of Delmark, Julia Miller is seen right here holding a reel-to-reel tape of the Junior Wells basic, Hoodoo Man Blues.
AXPONA additionally presents an opportunity to fulfill musicians and advertising and marketing reps. Jazz singer and pianist Anne Bisson wore each of these hats this 12 months, performing a well-attended and well-received reside live performance on Friday night time and signing copies of her audiophile vinyl in the course of the day.
Along with taking part in harp, Isabeau Corriveau offered copies of her records within the foyer. Singer-songwriter Amber Rubarth carried out on Saturday night time. Also, Bob James signed copies of his reside trio album Feel Like Makin’ Live, on the Hong Kong-based Evosound label.
The founding father of Impex Records, Abey Fonn, held some talks the place, together with Nick Getz, the son of Stan Getz, she mentioned an upcoming 1-Step of Getz/Gilberto. Abey was additionally a part of a panel dialogue with Shane Boettner from Intervention Records, Julia Miller from Delmark, Chad Kassem from Acoustic Sounds/Analogue Productions, and Michael Fremer. The group mentioned the do’s and don’ts of remastering—and they need to know, as they’re all within the trenches.
The sorts of discussions and experiences described right here actually helped spherical out AXPONA, as, in the long run, it’s our love for music that makes us wish to hear recordings on great-sounding stereos.
The put up The 2023 AXPONA Show: Jeff Wilson on the Music appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
Cynthia Blankenship, AKA, The Audio Belle, takes us on her private journey, together with her insights, discoveries, and ideas on AXPONA 2023.
The publish The Audio Belle At AXPONA 2023 | Show Report appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
Cynthia Blankenship, AKA, The Audio Belle, takes us on her private journey, together with her insights, discoveries, and ideas on AXPONA 2023.
The submit The Audio Belle At AXPONA 2023 | Show Report appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
2023 AXPONA broke records with over 9000 attendees, 200 rooms, 500+ manufacturers, and a number of product introductions. Additionally, I observed an elevated variety of showgoers within the variety of girls, youthful aged audiophile/audio curious people, and folks of shade. The present organizers are shifting in the fitting route by increasing the pool of attendees, which I’m certain added to the 20% improve in attendance this yr. With 200 rooms to see, there isn’t a method I may handle to go to all of them. The objects that I used to be conscious of, from contacts or press releases obtained, had a good shot of being visited. If I missed a number of, which I’m certain I did given the scale of the present, I provide my apologies. Let’s take a look at a number of the new product introductions I discovered.
DS Audio Grand Master EX cartridge
Improving on the Grand Master, the Grand Master EX ($22,500) provides a unified one-piece diamond cantilever/stylus. That’s proper, the micro-ridge stylus and the 0.22mm cantilever are one steady diamond reduce, with out the standard bonding required for nearly all different cartridges. This advantages the cartridge with higher structural stability, extra correct transmission of groove modulation in addition to extra exact alignment of stylus to cantilever since it’s a one-piece diamond. Paired with the Grand Master EQ (optical cartridge equalizer), Clearaudio Ref Jubilee ’desk with Universal 9” tonearm ($30,000), D’Agostino Momentum HD preamp ($42,500) and M400 MvX amps ($79,950), and Wilson Alexx V audio system ($145,000) related with Transparent cables, with all parts sitting on Bassocontinuo Revolution X racks, the sound was a lot improved. Playing Lady Blackbird’s “Blackbird” observe from the Black Acid Soul LP revealed good vocals, clear and clear bass, drums, and piano. Save for a little bit of bass bloat (because of room points) and a slight breakup at one level on a vocal crescendo, the system produced satisfying sound. Look for a evaluation of the Grand Master EX in a future concern.
exaSound s82 Mark II Streaming DAC and Roon Server
The exaSound s82 Mark II Streaming DAC and Roon Server ($7599) was paired with the VAC Master preamplifier ($38,000) and Master 300 amplifier ($42,000), and Gershman Acoustics Studio XdB audio system with built-in bass-trap stand ($12,000) and Cardas cables. On an “Autumn Leaves” observe, the sound was clear on vocals with subjectively fast and nimble bass. The s82 Mark II options the ES9038PRO DAC (DSD512, DXD as much as 352.8kHz, PCM and MQA to 384kHz), unbiased single-ended and balanced output levels, headphone amplifier, inside quantity management, asynchronous USB streaming, galvanic isolation, low-jitter sign paths, selectable reconstruction filters, twin exterior energy provides, and an Intel i5 powered Roon server module with further server assist for UPnP, HQPlayer, AirPlay, Bluetooth, Tidal, Qobuz, and YouTube. The s82 Mark II presents an entire all-in-one Server, streamer, and DAC answer with a high-quality headphone amplifier.
Kalista DreamPlay Twenty-Twenty turntable and DreamPlay XC CD/SACD Player/DAC
The Kalista DreamPlay Twenty-Twenty ’desk ($54,000) and XC CD/SACD participant/DAC ($79,000) had been paired with a full set of Karan Acoustics electronics: LINEa preamplifier with exterior energy provide ($41,000), PHONOa phono preamplifier with exterior energy provide ($38,000), and POWERa mono energy amplifiers ($106,000). The audio system had been the exact same Vimberg Tonda Ds I reviewed within the pages of TAS in Issue 320. Connecting the system had been Crystal Cable Art Series’ Van Gogh and Da Vinci traces. Additional grounding was tied to the system utilizing the Entreq Olympus Infinity Ten floor field ($12,000). The DreamPlay XC options CD/SACD transport, native DSD as much as 256, PCM, DXD as much as 384kHz, Ethernet and Wi-Fi streaming, Ethernet, coax, I2S, and USB inputs, AES/EBU outputs, a built-in DreamPlay XC D/A converter, RCA and XLR analog outputs, and an exterior energy provide. Unfortunately, the Twenty-Twenty turntable part of Kalista’s web site was unavailable for specification retrieval on the time of this writing. Using both Kalista supply (analog or digital), the sound exiting the Tonda D was glorious whether or not taking part in classical music through silver disc or spinning vinyl taking part in Lady Blackbird. The soundstage was expansive, the presentation had truthful readability, and instrument/vocal timbres had been spot on and as practical as I bear in mind the audio system sounding throughout my evaluation.
Innous Pulsar Network Music Player
The Innous Pulsar Network Music Player ($6899) was launched at this present. Paired with a Magico A5, a Vinni Rossi BRAMA built-in amplifier, an MSB Premier DAC, a PS Audio P15, and Kimber Kable cables. The Pulsar encompasses a bead-blasted anodized aluminum chassis, 300VA toroidal transformer, inside PhoenixUSB Lite reclocker, optimized USB output, and twin, unbiased CX voltage-regulator modules. Brief listening within the above configuration yielded a complete system sound that was gentle and crisp in timbre.
Oracle Reference 1 Tonearm
The Oracle Delphi Reference ’desk ($13,920) hosted the Reference 1 tonearm ($6000) and Lyra Atlas Lambda cartridge ($11,995). This mixture was paired with the VAC Statement Phono ($80,000), VAC Statement Linestage ($80,000), and VAC Statement 452 amplifiers ($75,000 every), driving Acora Acoustics VRC audio system in Pearl Granite ($218,000 est.). All cables had been sourced from Cardas. The digital front-end contained the Aurender N30SA ($25,000), Aurender MC20 ($30,000), Lampizator Horizon DAC ($50,000), and Oracle CD 2000 MK IV ($13,500). The Reference 1 tonearm is a 4-bearing design that options VTA, anti-skate, and azimuth changes, a silicone trough for ’arm damping, a carbon-fiber armtube, 20g efficient mass, an end-of-record auto-armlift, 223mm pivot-to-spindle distance, and an efficient size of 240.3mm. In-room sound was excellent to glorious relying on the music tracks performed. Considering the large room measurement, this method did surprisingly properly.
VPI Avenger Direct Turntable
The VPI Avenger Direct ’desk ($36,000) internet hosting a Lyra Etna (non-lambda, $8995) was paired with the VTL Signature Phonostage ($15,000), VTL Line Preamplifier Series III ($35,000), VTL MB-450 Series III Signature mono amps ($30,000 pair), and the Stenheim Reference Ultime Two ($155,000) related with a full loom of high Nordost merchandise (cables, energy, isolation units, community swap, and many others.). The different supply on this system was the dCS Rossini Apex DAC ($32,800) with Rossini Master Clock ($10,850): which sounded excellent taking part in a stay BSO efficiency of Shostakovich’s 11th symphony. Vinyl playback was top-notch with the system taking part in Lady Blackbird, Duke Ellington’s Jazz Violin Sessions, and the wonderful Rossini L’Italiana in Algeri sinfonia.
Lumin
Lumin confirmed three new merchandise: the U2 Network Music Transport ($5000), T3 ($4990) streamer/renderer/DAC, and the U1-X Network Music Transport. A number of of the U2 and Y3’s options embrace an all-new processor, devoted USB output, linear energy provide, fiber community enter, DSD512 and PCM 768kHz playback, MQA decoding, and LEEDH quantity management. The U1-X combines the options of the U1 digital transport with the X-1 energy provide that’s mentioned to yield improved sound staging, element, heat, and total presence. The system was paired with the Lumin XAMP ($13,990) and a set of Matthew Bond cables.
SME 60 Turntable
The SME 60 was proven for the primary time at AXPONA 2023, though already reviewed by Michael Fremer in Issue 333. Most of the options are lined in that evaluation. The SME 60 with VA Series tonearm is a piece of engineering precision and creativity geared in direction of bettering on SME’s legacy designs. Based on all indications offered throughout a proof of the design, the product is a hit. Listening to the SME 60 with VA ’arm in a system with AVM 8.3 Phono ($13,995), AVM 8.3 preamp ($18,385), AVM 8.3 amplifiers ($44,995/pr.), and Canton Reference 3K loudspeakers ($13,995) related with Kubala-Sosna cables, confirmed the analog front-end to be quiet and managed whereas tracing the groove with ease.
SonoruS ATR10 mkII Tape Deck
Scott Walker Audio confirmed the brand new SonoruS ATR10 mkII tape participant ($32,500). This unit is a plug-and-play, turnkey reel-to-reel tape deck. After the unique ATR10 was launched over a decade in the past, the brand new mkII mannequin options up to date electronics and redesigned mechanical elements. The output options tube playback electronics which are mentioned to supply glorious “dynamic vary and low bass authority with minimal coloration.” Other options embrace the compact chassis of the ATR10 mkII, DC Coupled Stabilized Loop Gain Technology, regulated tape stress of provide reel and take-up reel, 7.5ips and 15ips velocity choice, IEC and NAB EQ, captive NAB spindles, motor-assisted quick breaking, library wind, and optical chief tape detection. In system, the ATR10 mkII was feeding the VAC Master Preamp ($30,000), VAC Master 300 iQ amplifiers ($42,000 ea.), and Von Schweikert Ultra 7 loudspeakers with Shockwave V-12XS subwoofer ($16,500) related with Masterbuilt Ultra cables. Brief listening to the ATR10 mkII taking part in SonoruS Holographic Imaging tapes confirmed promising efficiency. I want to discover this tape machine’s efficiency additional.
Other turntable debuts embrace: The AMG Giro MkII, Technics 1500C White ($1299), and Luxman’s PD-191A ($12,495). Bel Canto premiered the BLACK DAC System ($40,000) that features three analog inputs with one being an mm/mc phonostage. The new and improved Spin-Clean report washer ($79) with snap-in curler, wedge-fit brushes, and simple clear basin was additionally proven.
Axiss Audio launched a brand new model of the Yuki AP-01 turntable ($TBD) from Japan. This unique-looking, all-metal turntable was on show the primary day of the present. I managed to get an image of it however didn’t take heed to it on that day. When I returned, the Yuki AP-01 was on static show with no cartridge. Unfortunately, that meant no listening to it or observing its operation. However, there was one thing else of curiosity on this room. That merchandise was the Gauder Acoustics DARC 200 loudspeakers ($149,000). Being conversant in Gauder Acoustic’s Berlina RC 9, which I reviewed in April of 2016 (TAS 262), I used to be intrigued with the DARC 200. The speaker takes the Berlina rib building to new heights with the implementation of aluminum as an alternative of a dense fiber materials. In addition, the crossovers and drivers are new and have been improved through the years. The speaker options some adjustability by way of linear bass output stage and selective increase/reduce between 30Hz–60Hz (typical downside areas for a lot of rooms). Driven by a full suite of Accuphase electronics or alternately a full suite of Soulution electronics and sourced by a Transrotor TT with Airtight Opus 1 cartridge, the DARC 200 audio system sounded very promising and simply confirmed the subjective user-preference-based distinction between the 2 units of electronics: one leaning in direction of wealthy and heat whereas the opposite being faster and having barely extra perceived low-level decision. The efficiency was satisfying sufficient to foresee a evaluation of a DARC loudspeaker within the close to future.
Belgium based mostly firm, AM Belgium nv, has been in enterprise since 1969. The firm has in-house functionality to make repro and report tape heads for skilled and business tape decks. For sure fashions of the tape heads that AM Belgium shares, the shopper can order the correct different head in a single amount. For different substitute heads that aren’t stocked, the minimal order varies from 5 to 10 heads relying on whether or not the corporate has the substitute head design from a earlier order or it’s a new substitute head design. AM Belgium additionally presents relapping and reconditioning providers.
Best Sound (cost-no-object): A tie. The Wynn Audio room with Vimberg Tonda D/Karan Acoustics phono, preamp, amp, Kalista digital supply and turntable with Xquisite cartridge, and Crystal Cable Da Vinci wiring, and the Stenheim Reference Ultime Two with VTL phono, preamp, amplifiers, dCS DAC, and VPI turntable with Lyra cartridge.
Best Sound (for-the-money): The full Yamaha Flagship HelloFi Series 5000 system. While the fee was increased than some lower-priced choices on the present, this was the perfect sounding system on the lowest price that I heard.
Most Significant Product Introduction: The new and improved Spin-Clean Record Washer equipment for brand spanking new and budding vinyl playback audiophiles to begin cleansing their records.
Most Significant Trend: Diversity at AXPONA 2023. I noticed extra children, girls, and folks of shade than at earlier exhibits. The present organizers are increasing their attain. This is an efficient factor for the trade and our passion.
Most Coveted Product(s): Gauder Acoustics DARC 200 loudspeakers, SonoruS ATR10 mkII tape participant, and Kalista DreamPlay XC SACD/CD Player/DAC.
The publish The 2023 AXPONA Show: Andre Jennings on Analog and Digital Sources appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
If you’ll be able to’t make it to Munich for an audio present, AXPONA is a really shut second. This was my maiden journey to the Chicago extravaganza, however even veteran attendees marveled anew at its sheer dimension, the demographic disparity of attendees, the presence of just about each main high-end producer on earth (together with their high designers and executives), and the plethora of purposely timed product introductions. Compared to Munich, AXPONA’s most obvious lack is an effective apfelstrudel.
So, there I used to be wandering the ten flooring (plus a dozen ballrooms), trying to find audio system underneath $30k, however discovering principally fashions priced nicely beneath $10k. What was happening? The business had lastly realized that efficiently attracting a brand new, youthful, however much less prosperous clientele meant pricing its wares accordingly. Consequently—and I by no means thought I’d write this in a TAS present report—costs have been manner down. New merchandise however, that was AXPONA’s greatest information.
Mission M770. This speaker, making its U.S. debut, represented a number of developments. First, it’s uncontestably cheap: simply $5k/pair, together with stands. Second, like introductions from Wharfedale, JBL, Janszen, KLH, Klipsch and Tannoy, the Mission is an up to date model of an outdated speaker—on this case, the M770 that initially bowed in 1978. At AXPONA, every part outdated was new once more. Not all these seductively priced reboots have been profitable, however the Mission had a dynamic alacrity and midrange immediacy that have been absent even in lots of costly high-end audio system.
Janszen Nine.Five. Another retro speaker that made the grade will get particular kudos for its willingness to play with the unique’s design. The Nine.Five takes its cue from the beloved KLH Model 9. But whereas the KLH was a full-range electrostatic, the Janszen is a practically full-range ‘stat. In the fashionable model, which runs $21,900, the planar panel covers every part from 200Hz up. Below that may be a line array of six 8” dynamic woofers. At AXPONA the low-sensitivity speaker was underpowered by AGD electronics, so Beethoven’s 7th didn’t fare nicely. However, on much less strenuous supply materials, comparable to Brubeck’s “Take Five,” the amps stored up and the audio system confirmed outstanding neutrality, convincing timbre, and glorious imaging. On no event did I hear any discontinuity between the planar and dynamic drivers. Sometimes taking liberties pays off.
GoldenEar T66. The long-delayed revamp of GoldenEar’s famed Triton sequence begins now, with this good-looking, underneath $8k/pair floorstander. The T66 marks the primary core-product introduction because the firm was acquired by the Quest Group, which additionally contains AudioQuest. Compared to its predecessors, the T66 displays noticeably superior industrial design and end. Featuring a ribbon tweeter and powered sub, the T66 sounded clean and luxurious when pushed by McIntosh tubed electronics. I’d like to listen to it with some good solid-state gear, however the T66 bodes nicely for GoldenEar’s subsequent chapter.
Q Acoustics 5000 Series. This British model is extra acquainted to Europeans than Americans, however which will change with new distribution right here and selections like saying a complete new line at AXPONA fairly than ready for Munich. The 5000 sequence ranges from $750–$2000, and each mannequin options know-how from the doubly costly Concept Series. At AXPONA, powered by the at all times good-sounding Soul Note electronics, the mid-range mannequin 5040 ($1499) displayed surprisingly excessive decision and dynamics for the value. Even the cupboard was lovely.
MoFi SourcePoint 8. Designer Andrew Jones’ newest is a boundary buster. The SourcePoint 8 demonstrates simply how a lot audiophile-grade sound will be wrung from a $3k/pair of audio system. The SP8 is the newborn brother of the stellar SourcePoint 10—itself an unimaginable discount at $4k/pair—with the distinction being the woofer dimension. Both fashions function Jones’ trademark concentric-driver method. The SP8 might hand over a smidge of bass extension in comparison with the SP10, however its low finish stays highly effective and tight. As with the SP10, The SP8’s imaging, decision, dynamics, and just about every part else are ridiculously good for the value. AJ does it once more!
PureAudioProject makes open-baffle audio system that homeowners can modify by including or changing modules. For occasion, the midrange will be dealt with by the client’s alternative of a horn, coax, or full-range driver. The newest mannequin is the Trio 15, which features a pair of 15” woofers and the coax mid/hello for $8900/pair. Its sound at AXPONA was clean and soulful, with nice spatial dispersion. There have been no field colorations, due to there being no field.
Tannoy was yet one more model from hi-fi’s golden age that was sprucing up its outdated catalog. The Stirling LLLZ Special Edition ($12,500) relies on a 1967 design, however its components trickled down from the flagship Kensington mannequin. Like many of those retro-inspired audio system, there are consumer changes; on this case, for tweeter degree and roll-off frequency. Tannoy supplied solely a static show of the Stirling, however the Kensington, which is bigger however has similar specs, was enjoying. In the Tannoy custom, it sounded wealthy and sonorous.
Gershman XdB. The XdB is a stand-mount speaker with a distinction: the stand itself is a part of the system. As I perceive it, the stand capabilities as a bass lure, dissipating extra bass from the sealed enclosure. In one other departure, there’s an anti-vibration, mass-loading disc atop the cupboard. The audio system, $12k/pair together with stands, are rated all the way down to an impressively low 23Hz. At their AXPONA introduction, bass was shockingly prolonged and highly effective. The remainder of the spectrum was equally good, particularly when it comes to dynamics. A outstanding debut, particularly—I’ll say it once more—contemplating the value.
JM Reynaud’s Orfeo Grande ($19,500) had its U.S. premier at AXPONA. The French firm’s new flagship mannequin employs a planar tweeter and dynamic mid and bass drivers, all of which built-in artfully. Paired with Jadis electronics, the combo sounded each bit as candy as you’d anticipate, however not overly so. There was a shocking diploma of instrumental physique and weight for such a small footprint.
Dynaudio pulled out all of the stops at AXPONA. The firm showcased three audio system: the Confidence 50, which galvanized JV; the Confidence 20, whose sound was such that it had no enterprise costing simply $13k together with stands; and the $11k Focus 50, making its first commerce present look. These are wi-fi, powered, 3-way, tri-amplified audio system with built-in streaming, room correction, and WiSA inter-speaker connectivity for low latency. Although I didn’t get to listen to the F50, I used to be impressed by its vary of help for streaming platforms (Tidal, Roon, Spotify), wi-fi connectivity (Chromecast, exterior WiSA sources as much as 24/96, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth), and hardwired inputs (Ethernet, coax Digital, TosLink, analog). As befits a very trendy speaker, every part is configurable and controllable through an app.
Canadian speaker firm Rethm launched the Maarga floorstander ($12,900). An energetic speaker, the Maarga incorporates a 400-watt amp to energy its quad 7” isobaric woofers. Prana Fidelity showcased the ultimate model of its long-gestating Dhara stand-mount speaker ($9500/pair together with stands). Although squarely within the “nice” faculty of sound, the Dhara was by no means monotonous due to loads of rhythmic vitality. The crossover gives varied choices for roll-off, resistor values, and so on, all of that are user-switchable.
Ironically, simply throughout the corridor from the massive MBL omnidirectional system was a a lot smaller-scale—and much cheaper—execution of the omnidirectional method by Phillips Design. Making its world debut was the mannequin OH-16 ($4500-$6k, relying on end). The speaker consists of a coax mid/hello driver firing upward right into a dispersion cone, and a down-firing 12” woofer.
Martin-Logan selected AXPONA to launch a complete new line: the Motion Series. All the Motion fashions are hybrids, with AMT planar tweeters, fiberglass midrange drivers, and both aluminum or Kevlar/Nomex composite woofers, relying on mannequin. Prices vary from a mere $500 to $5500.
The Wharfedale Dovedale, one other speaker reborn from the previous, is a brand new entrant within the firm’s Heritage Series. The Dovedale hails from the 60s, when it could possibly be bought as a equipment! The new model mimics the unique’s dimension and form. Each driver has its personal inside cupboard. Built within the U.Okay., the 3-way Dovedale prices $7k for a mirror-matched pair.
Another longstanding model, Definitive Technology, launched the brand new Dymension Series. Of best curiosity to two-channel audio followers would be the floorstanding DM40, 60, 70 and 80. They promote for $2–$5k/pair. Each mannequin is a bipole tower with an attenuate-able rear driver. The sound was pure and extremely coherent.
Paradigm’s new Defiance XR11 subwoofer ($4k) powers its 11” woofer with 1100 watts. The sub contains room correction and a spinoff of the woofer used within the upscale Persona line. Phase, polarity, and degree can all be managed by an app.
Focal is changing its well-liked Chora line with a brand new sequence dubbed Theva (the ‘h’ is silent). Designed for each home-theater and two-channel purposes, the audio system vary from $1–$3k and boast upgraded cupboards, crossovers, and drivers.
Finally, the Devialet Mania is a tiny moveable sphere of a speaker. Barely bigger than a softball, Mania is energetic, wi-fi, rechargeable (one cost lasts 10 hours), and helps Apple Airplay, wi-fi, and Bluetooth. Grab your cellphone, a Mania, and a bottle of wine and have your self a picnic anyplace.
Best Sound (Cost no object): Among bigger rooms, I by no means felt the enjoyment of sonic and musical discovery as keenly as with the Acora/VAC system. Within smaller rooms, kudos go to the extraordinary new Magico S3.
Best Sound (for the cash): No contest right here. The MoFi SourcePoint 8 audio system pushed by a Hi-Fi Rose built-in amp/DAC/streamer price lower than $7 for an complete—and completely mind-blowing—system.
Most Significant Introduction: A tie between the MoFi SourcePoint 8, which exhibits simply how a lot terrific sound $3k should purchase, and the Magico S3 ($45k), which leverages the corporate’s newest design and testing know-how to create a brand new candy spot within the line.
Best Joke: In a packed elevator, Muzak wafting from the ceiling, an attendee quipped, “This is the most effective sound I’ve heard on the present.” The complete elevator exploded with laughter.
The put up The 2023 AXPONA Show: Alan Taffel on Loudspeakers Below $30k appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
This AXPONA was simply essentially the most upbeat, finest organized, and nicely attended present outdoors Munich. But what actually made this 12 months’s occasion so heartening was the range of the attendees. The halls and exhibit rooms had been filled with younger individuals and {couples} in search of new methods to discover music. Fortunately, this present had loads of inexpensive merchandise for them to see and listen to, and with options and capabilities focusing on how they wish to entry music.
Here are my picks of essentially the most attention-grabbing new electronics on the present.
PrimaLuna EVO 100 Phonostage
PrimaLuna, the corporate identified for delivering superb worth and excessive build-quality, has launched a “swing-for-the-fences,” all-tube phonostage with the EVO 100. Nearly all tube phonostages make use of a step-up transformer or transistor achieve stage on the enter earlier than the tube stage to maintain noise ranges low. Realizing 65dB or extra of achieve with simply tubes can lead to a poor signal-to-noise ratio. PrimaLuna has addressed this problem with a large all-tube energy provide that makes use of a pair of EL34s, a tube normally present in a power-amplifier output stage. The EVO 100’s tube complement contains 4 12AX7s within the entrance finish, a 6922 for extra moving-coil achieve, and a pair of 5AR4 tubes as rectifiers. The EVO 100 presents three achieve settings (52dB, 56dB, 60dB). The first manufacturing items simply began transport from distributor/retailer Upscale Audio. Price: $3695.
Aesthetix Pallena Preamplifier and Dione Power Amplifier
Aesthetix has a protracted historical past of constructing exceptionally musical merchandise, a practice continued within the new Pallena preamp and Dione energy amp. The Pallena is a totally balanced tube preamp with a switched-resistor quantity management primarily based on that of the Calypso preamp. An ideal characteristic is the flexibility to customise the Pallena to your wants or add functionality later. Specifically, you possibly can add an elective phono module with achieve and loading changes. These changes could be constructed from the entrance panel or distant management. A second module provides digital-to-analog conversion that helps as much as 384kHz/24-bit PCM and DSD64 and DSD128. The Pallena comes normal with a headphone amplifier, or you possibly can go for a totally discrete differential-input headphone amp. The modules are $1250 every.
The matching Dione energy amplifier is a hybrid design with a tube achieve stage and solid-stage output stage. The amplifier options zero suggestions and has differential balanced-bridged circuitry by means of the output stage. All inputs are supplied on each unbalanced and balanced jacks. The energy transformers are, unusually, wound in-house. Power output is rated at 160Wpc into 8 ohms and 320Wpc into 4 ohms.
The Pallena and Dione are priced at $6500 every and are a step up from the spectacularly nice Aesthetix Mimas built-in amplifier that’s Neil Gader’s reference.
Cabasse Abyss Amplifier
One of essentially the most outstanding demos at this AXPONA wasn’t with one of many present’s greatest methods, however with one in every of its smallest. French speaker maker Cabasse confirmed its Abyss “High-Resolution Connected Active Amplifier,” a 120Wpc built-in amplifier with built-in streaming. What’s particular concerning the Abyss is the DSP processing inside that may enormously enhance the sound of any speaker, most dramatically with fashions from Cabasse. The DSP means that you can inform the system the place your loudspeakers are positioned relative to room boundaries and the DSP will regulate the frequency response for smoother bass. You also can regulate the tonal stability with the integral tilt controls. But right here’s the most effective half: When used with a passive Cabasse speaker, the amplifier will interact a DSP program particular to that speaker to easy out response. The frequency profiles of a variety of Cabasse audio system are programmed into the Abyss; you simply choose which one to interact. The DSP filter has 30 bands, permitting for very exact adjustment. Non-Cabasse audio system profit from a generic DSP algorithm. In addition, the Abyss has a patented processing algorithm referred to as Dynamic Fidelity Enhancer (DFE) that analyzes the sign’s dynamics and degree in actual time and modifies the sign to revive the music’s dynamics and bass extension at low listening ranges. Price: $1795.
Naim NSC 222 Streaming Preamplifier, NAP 250 Power Amplifier, and NPX 300 Power Supply
Naim confirmed the brand new 200-Series, comprising the NSC 222 streaming preamplifier, NAP 250 energy amplifier, and NPX 300 energy provide. The NSC 222 options Naim’s personal streaming engine that helps each streaming platform, Internet Radio, UPnP servers, and can be Roon Ready. A front-panel show exhibits the album artwork. The new preamp is managed by the Naim App, which additionally supplies multi-room management over all of the Naim parts on the community. A high-quality headphone amplifier, inherited from the superb Uniti Atom Headphone Edition, is included. Price: $8999.
The NAP 250 energy amplifier carries the mannequin designation of an iconic Naim amplifier launched in 1975. This new sixth-generation mannequin is, after all, considerably up to date with the newest expertise and design. It advantages from some circuitry developed for Naim’s quarter-million-dollar Statement energy amplifier, together with discrete power-supply regulation and the similar transistors within the output stage. The NAP 250 outputs 100Wpc. Price: $8999.
Finally, the NPX 300 energy provide continues a long-held Naim custom of offering an improve path by means of a really high-quality energy provide in a separate chassis. The NPX is designed to enhance the efficiency of the NPX 222 by delivering exceptionally clear DC energy to the streaming preamplifier. Price: $8999. I’ve heard a number of demonstrations of Naim’s outboard energy provides, and the development in sound high quality was important every time. The three items within the 200-Series share similar styling for a unified look. They are additionally housed in superbly machined aluminum chassis with distinctive build-quality.
Balanced Audio Technology VK-80t
MoFi Distribution confirmed the brand new all-tube BAT VK-80t energy amplifier to rejoice BAT’s 25th anniversary. The VK-80t outputs 60Wpc from the high-current 6C33C-B output tube, the identical tube present in BAT’s flagship REX 3 energy amplifier. This tube has a better present capability that the 6550 discovered in lots of amplifiers. The enter stage is constructed round a 6H30 “SuperTube.” This new BAT could be operated as a stereo amplifier or a 120W monoblock. An auto-bias circuit simplifies possession. Available in black or silver. Deliveries of the $9995 unit start in Q2.
Air Tight ATC-7 Line Control Amplifier
The venerable Japanese artisanal producer debuted its reference linestage, the ATC-7 Line Control Amplifier. In growth since 2018, the ATC-7 is Air Tight’s assertion in linestages. The all-tube unit options three unbalanced and two balanced inputs, two pairs of 12AX7s, two pairs of 12AU7s, and a extremely superior new quantity management together with an modern energy provide. The styling harkens again to basic merchandise of the previous, with giant front-panel knobs slightly than a digital show. Much consideration was paid to the look and tactile really feel of the knobs; Air Tight wished to convey again the enjoyment of hands-on involvement in working an audio system on this age of touchscreens. In that spirit, the ATC-7 contains 4 separate changes for tonal stability, two for “Presence” and two marked “Bass Compensator.” These mean you can dial within the sound to your significantly loudspeakers, room, and style. The stability management is a pair of knobs (one for every channel) marked “Gain Trim.” As with all Air Tight merchandise, the ATC-7 is constructed by hand to the best normal.
Technics SU-GX70X Streaming Integrated Amplifier
Technics’ new SU-GX70X streaming amplifier is filled with a bunch of superior options. The amplifier is digital, which means it retains digital enter alerts within the digital area during the amplifier. Digital-to-analog conversion happens as a part of the switching output stage. The unit outputs 40Wpc into 8 ohms and 80Wpc into 4. It options Technics’ LAPC processing that “appears to be like” on the traits of the speaker the amplifier is driving and processes the sign to higher match the amplifier to the loudspeaker load. The SU-GX70X has two line inputs, mm phono, networking, Internet Radio, FM radio, Bluetooth, and each streaming service you possibly can think about. It additionally does DSD as much as 5.6MHz. An HDMI enter is included with Audio Return Channel (ARC) for straightforward integration with a TV. You can management the unit through the entrance panel, distant management, or app. Price: $1999, with availability starting in late July.
AVM CS 5.3 and CS 30.3 All-in-One, and PAS Preamplifier
Udo Besser of Germany’s AVM was available to indicate me the corporate’s new CS 5.3 all-in-one unit. The CS 5.3 is a community streaming amplifier with each streaming perform possible, HDMI enter for integrating with a TV, a phonostage with adjustable loading and achieve, and a whopping 330Wpc of Class D output energy. The CS 5.3 could be ordered as a hybrid unit with a tube enter stage at $12,800, or with a solid-state enter at $10,000.
If you don’t want that a lot energy, take into account the brand new CS 30.3 all-in-one, a part of the brand new 30.3 line that brings AVM’s expertise and build-quality to a cheaper price tier. The $5000 CS 30.3 is totally loaded functionally however presents 125Wpc of output energy. The 30.3 sequence comes with the identical superbly machined aluminum distant management as AVM’s high fashions.
If you have already got an influence amplifier and wish to add extra options to your system, AVM confirmed the PAS preamplifier, which is actually a CS 5.3 with out the facility amplification stage. Price: $8000 with tube enter stage.
All the AVM merchandise are supplied in black, silver, and chrome finishes, the latter carrying a small upcharge. Commendably, AVM has written its personal streaming engine software program and invested significantly in making a management app. I noticed a demo of the app and was enormously impressed by its energy, visible magnificence, and ease of use. The app has an ingenious graphic show for multi-room management of an AVM system with a number of parts all through the house.
Rotel Michi Series 2 Integrated Amplifiers and Preamplifier
After a protracted quiet spell, Rotel launched three formidable merchandise within the upscale Michi Series. The first of two built-in amplifiers is the Michi X3 Series 2. The X3 options greater than 90 element upgrades, ESS ES9028PRO DACs, and reengineered energy provides. This powerhouse delivers 350Wpc into 4 ohms and features a full complement of analog and digital inputs, in addition to an mm phonostage.
If you need much more energy, the Michi X5 Series 2 will present 600Wpc into 4 ohms thanks partially to twin, in-house-manufactured, shielded, low-noise toroidal transformers. The X5 additionally advantages from element upgrades and contains selectable mm or mc phono enter.
Finally, the Michi P5 Series 2 preamplifier options the ESS SABRE DAC tailored to “mono” mode for enhanced efficiency. It presents a full suite of analog and digital inputs together with MQA decoding, DSD as much as 4x, and mm and mc phono inputs. The X3 Series 2 is priced at $5799; the X5 is $7999; and the P5 is $4599. Availability begins in April.
WestminsterLab REI Class A Monoblock Amplifier and Quest Preamplifier
I noticed and heard an formidable new energy amplifier and preamplifier from an organization new to me, Hong Kong-based WestminsterLab. The compact amplifier, referred to as the REI, operates in Class A to ship 100W; but, the amplifier ran cool to the contact because of the VARI-BIAS expertise and heatsink design. The amplifier can double its output energy because the impedance is halved, all the way in which all the way down to 2 ohms. The direct-coupled, no-global-feedback circuitry is totally discrete and realized with hand-matched parts. The REI could be bridged for 400W. The minimalist industrial design is uncommon and delightful, realized with CNC-machined aluminum and carbon fiber. The matching Quest preamplifier is equally tweaky, with a dual-mono totally balanced design and a discrete stepped attenuator. Prices: $32,900 per pair for the REI, and $25,100 for the Quest preamplifier. WestminsterLabs merchandise are distributed by HearThis in Newport Beach, California.
SoTM sPQ-100 Phonostage
Korea’s SoTM, maker of dozens of high-tech digital parts for community streaming, launched its first phonostage, the sPQ-100. Housed in SoTM’s acquainted wedge-shaped chassis, the sPQ-100 presents banks of DIP switches for high-quality changes of the equalization curve. One place on every change is marked “RIAA” for setting the unit to accurately equalize for the worldwide normal. No pricing was introduced, however the sPQ-100 is predicted to promote for about $800 plus the price of one of many outboard energy provides supplied by SoTM.
Mola Mola Lupe Phonostage and Perca Stereo Amplifier
The acclaimed phonostage constructed into Mola Mola’s Makua preamplifier has now been become a stand-alone unit with its personal energy provide. The new Lupe options three single-ended inputs and one balanced enter, balanced and single-ended output, and a subsonic filter, all housed in a half-sized chassis. Unusually, the mm and mc levels are utterly separate; in most phonostages the mc sign merely goes by means of a further achieve stage. Any of the 4 inputs could be routed to the output to accommodate turntables with a number of tonearms. Price: $9850.
Mola Mola additionally confirmed a brand new stereo energy amplifier, the Perca. It delivers 150Wpc into 8 ohms and may double that score into 4 ohms. Price: $9850.
Leak Stereo 230 Integrated Amplifier
Talk a few legendary title from the previous. Leak confirmed, by means of its U.S. distributor MoFi Distribution, the brand new Stereo 230 built-in amp. The unit options mid-century-modern styling together with a brand new DAC part that gives full MQA decoding, DSD512, and decoding of any PCM sign. An HDMI enter with Audio Return Channel (ARC) permits the 230 to breed tv sound. An mm phonostage and devoted headphone amplifier are included. The 230 is Roon examined, however certification is pending. Power output is 75Wpc into 8 ohms, and 110Wpc into 4 ohms. Price: $1695
Best Sound (value no object)
I’ll title three methods, in no specific order.
Axiss Audio’s demo of the Gauder Akustik DARC 200 loudspeaker pushed by Soulution electronics with a Transrotor turntable and Air Tight Opus One cartridge. Spectacular dynamics, hard-hitting bass, fast, clear, non-fatiguing, and simply plain musical.
The Acora Acoustics VRC loudspeaker ($218,000) pushed by VAC Statement electronics sourced by an Oracle Delphi Reference turntable and cabled with Cardas all through. The sense of presence and immediacy was beautiful, as was the large three-dimensional soundstage.
MBL’s lately upgraded 101 Mk.II loudspeaker pushed by all-MBL entrance finish and electronics delivered the standard dose of MBL virtues—a shocking sense of lifelike presence, top-to-bottom coherence, enormous soundstage, and great bass extension and impression. Because of the 101’s omnidirectional nature each seat in the home was within the candy spot.
Best Sound (for the cash)
The Cabasse Rialto energetic loudspeaker. This small dice combines a concentric forward-facing driver with a rear-firing woofer, integral amplification, streaming, and even DSP room correction. You’ve heard the expression, “Just add audio system.” The Realto is, “Just add music.” The sound was stunningly nice for $4000 a pair. As a showgoer stated, “It’s scary good.” I couldn’t agree extra.
Most Significant Product Introduction
Magico S3. This new $45k speaker brings the sonic qualities of Magico’s flagship merchandise to its less expensive fashions. I’d have thought I used to be listening to one in every of Magico’s M-Series audio system.
Most Significant Trend
Great enhancements in app-based consumer interfaces. Once crude and clumsy, the most effective interfaces are quickly turning into slick and highly effective. Examples: Server-maker Innuos’ spectacular customized music-management system and AVM’s app management of its all-in-one methods with multiroom functionality. That form of software program growth is extraordinarily costly however delivers a superior buyer expertise.
Most Coveted Product
The Hill Plasmatronics plasma tweeter. Dr. Alan Hill, the physicist who invented the plasma tweeter 40 years in the past, was available to witness the primary public show of his driver in 4 a long time. The plasma driver, which has no diaphragm and thus no shifting mass, was paired with an Eminent Technology LFT-8c, crossed over at 1kHz. The sound was extremely lifelike and easy—essentially the most pure and sensible replica of upper-midrange and treble I’ve ever heard. Thanks to Tony Salsich, Joe Galanti, and Ron Hoering for spending the time, effort, and expense to showcase this outstanding expertise and landmark piece of high-end historical past.
The submit The 2023 AXPONA Show: Robert Harley on Electronics appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
Judging by the variety of shows and attendees, I’d name AXPONA 2023 a roaring success—not fairly Munich High End stage, particularly in the way in which of latest product introductions, however approaching it. Almost everybody within the trade was there, together with a bunch of parents (e.g., Cyrill Hammer of Soulution, Gabi Rijnveld of Crystal Cable, Jack Miura of Air Tight, Franc Kuzma of Kuzma Ltd., Roland Gauder of Gauder Akustik, et al.) who don’t usually come to regional U.S. exhibits. But AXPONA has grown past a regional present. It is now the closest factor we’ve to a CES-level high-end-audio occasion.
Happily, the sound at this yr’s AXPONA was, for essentially the most half, additionally a hit. Of course, the Schaumburg Renaissance’s small resort rooms and enormous convention-center halls had their peculiarities, however not less than the colorations have been constant. Many audio system (not all, by any means) struggled a bit within the higher midrange and the low finish. Very few screamed or boomed at you, as nearly all the things does in these terrible glass-walled cubicles at Munich’s MOC, however within the Renaissance resort rooms there was a slight tendency to room-induced brightness and lumpy midbass. The enormous conference halls had their very own set of sonic points, chief amongst which was the difficulty many audio system (even many giant audio system) had merely filling these cavernous areas with sound. Without a lot if any room assist, the displays may have a tendency towards the anechoic, which is to say that pure tonal heat was typically (not all the time) diminished.
Nonetheless, as I mentioned, this was principally a good-sounding—in some instances, a really good-sounding—present. It was additionally, as I’ve famous, a big present. Which signifies that, regardless of my greatest efforts, I undoubtedly missed among the demos on the Renaissance’s 11 flooring of resort rooms and conference halls. I in all probability acquired pricing and nomenclature improper in a number of instances, too. My apologies prematurely to these people I missed and to these whose names, particulars, and/or value tags I screwed up. (You attempt taking in depth notes on a tiny iPhone keyboard and see how effectively you do.) As I’ve written many instances previously, I’m only one man with a briefcase filled with blues, jazz, and classical LPs. So, present some sympathy (as Mick as soon as mentioned a few very totally different character).
I’m going to prepare this report by flooring, beginning on the prime (16), the place Dr. Roland Gauder of Gauder Akustik launched his four-driver, three-way, $149k DARC 200, pushed by an entire suite of Soulution Series 7 electronics and sourced by a Soulution 760 DAC (one in every of my references) and an unique Yukiseimitsu Audio AP-01 turntable. As it turned out, this room was a pleasant shock, because the DARC 200s weren’t geared up with Accuton ceramic woofers, as has been the case with the Gauder audio system I’ve heard previously, however with aluminum-sandwich ones (the midrange, I consider, stays ceramic and the tweeter diamond). The attribute ribs of the good-looking chassis have additionally been modified to strong aluminum, with intermediate dampers between every rib. The sonic results of these modifications to drivers and enclosures couldn’t have been extra optimistic. Gauders have by no means lacked for element, however in tone shade they’ve tended towards the lean, cool, antiseptic facet. Not the DARCs! The sound was extraordinarily wealthy, easy, darkish, pretty, and listenable. And tremendously dynamic. It was only a matter of luck, however this very first room turned out to be a possible candidate for Best of Show.
Next door, AXISS Audio (now below Cliff Duffey’s ready administration) was displaying the five-driver, four-way, $40k Franco Serblin Ktêma floorstander, pushed and sourced by Air Tight fantastic electronics. Brighter, extra current, and extra speedy than the Gauder within the midrange and treble, the Ktêma was nonetheless wealthy and full in shade with distinctive copy of standup bass. My notes learn: “Very rattling good, once more!”
I subsequent visited GTT Audio’s room, the place Bill Parish was displaying the five-driver, four-way, $68k Vivid Audio Giya G2 Series 2s. I’ve heard and favored numerous iterations of this uniquely formed (to my eye, attractively so) loudspeaker a number of instances, right here and overseas, so I used to be anticipating good issues. What I acquired was a mite disappointing. Driven by Audionet electronics and cabled by Kubala-Sosna, the Giya was a bit brighter, thinner, and extra aggressive than the Gauder or the Serblin within the mids and the treble and in addition much less well-defined within the bass (although the audio system had phenomenal influence on “The Great Gate of Kiev”). These room-induced points made the presentation good however not Best of Show-worthy.
Next up have been the multi-driver, five-way, $180k Von Schweikert Ultra 7s, powered by WestminsterLab electronics, sourced by a Lampizator DAC and Aurender server, and cabled by Masterbuilt. Although I haven’t all the time cottoned to the Von Ses’ sound within the enormous ballrooms the place they’re normally proven, this time round, in a small room, I believed they have been very good. Lovely, energetic (only a contact vivid and aggressive on guitars), and well-balanced, they excelled on Dire Straits and different music.
Børresen Acoustics was displaying its $61k (sure, you learn that proper), stand-mounted 01 Silver Supreme two-way, pushed (in fact) by Aavik electronics and cabled with Ansuz wire. I’ve been a fan of Michael Børresen’s ribbon/cone two-ways since his Raidho days, so I used to be very a lot trying ahead to listening to his new two-way references with elaborate cryo remedies and inductance-reducing solid-silver pole rings. Alas, the room didn’t serve the 01 in addition to it might need. Oh, the sound was lots good (Michael’s two-ways are all the time particular), however the nearly full absence of low bass and a little bit of graininess and brightness in mids and treble made the presentation much less excellent than it ought to’ve been for 61g’s.
The $60k, two-way Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 omni with carbon-fiber chassis was being pushed by VAC electronics. Though oddly discontinuous within the bass and a bit of vivid on woodwinds, it was, nonetheless, quick and open in every single place else, with superb depth and free-floating photos. An fascinating loudspeaker.
We now transfer to the 15th flooring, the place the massive, five-driver, $250k Göbel Divin Noblesse was being pushed by 4 ARC amps, sourced by Wadax, and cabled by Göbel. A bit vivid on top-octave piano, it was very full within the midband octaves, very current and ahead on brass and winds, wonderful on male voice, and a bit of laidback on drums and double bass. (I believed it may have used subs.) Good however a mite condensed and aggressive on this smaller area, the Goebel was nice to take heed to however not a Best of Show contender.
We come now to one in every of my favourite loudspeakers, the four-driver, four-way, $91,000 MBL 101E MkII omni, pushed and sourced (as regular) by MBL’s personal excellent electronics. A number of points in the past, one in every of my colleagues remarked that (till the present he was then reporting on) he’d by no means heard the MBLs sound good. Well, all I can say is perhaps he ought to seek the advice of an audiologist. This is and has all the time been a terrific loudspeaker. Grainless and pure with surprisingly good bass extension in a smaller room and easily outstanding spaciousness, it sounded excellent on “People Get Ready” and different soul, rock, and jazz cuts. Yeah, it was a bit darkish in shade on this area and a tiny bit vivid within the treble, but it surely was additionally exceedingly pretty and lifelike. It was the primary speaker I discovered myself tapping my foot to, which says one thing superb about its PRAT. Another Best of Show contender.
Next up was the powered (by built-in Class D amps), DSP’d, $40k Grimm Audio LS1 two-way with subwoofer. Like nearly all the things at this present, the Grimm was a bit of vivid within the higher mids. That apart, it was fairly good sounding, with a really good mix with its subwoofer. The soundstage on a Melody Gardot lower was monumental, and the timbre and focus of her voice have been fairly lifelike. While I wouldn’t name the LS1 a Best of Show, it got here shut, which is a primary in my expertise for a powered, DSP’d speaker.
Another previous favourite of mine, Magico, confirmed its new, three-way, $45k S3 floorstander, pushed by Convergent Audio Technology electronics, sourced by Wadax and an Antipodes Audio streamer, and cabled by Stealth and Veda. Put merely, the S3 was a knockout. It had extraordinarily deep-reaching bass (measurably flat right down to 20Hz), which was a shock in these small rooms from 9″ drivers, wealthy tonality prime to backside, very strong imaging, and distinctive element. (It was simply fantastic on male vocals from the Blind Boys of Alabama.) While it didn’t picture outdoors its (aluminum) containers and was restricted in depth, it was nonetheless a surefire BOS contender—and one other triumph for Alon and Yoav.
On to the 14th flooring, the place one other previous favourite, Rockport, was displaying its $37k Atria II, pushed by Vinnie Rossi electronics and sourced by MSB (one other of my references). This was a really candy, neutral-sounding transducer—neither overly darkish within the bass and midrange nor megaphonic within the higher mids. Because of its refreshing transparency and freedom from coloration, it was instantly one other of my Best of Show candidates.
We’ll skip the 13th flooring (Marriott did) and transfer on to the 12th, the place I got here throughout a French planar speaker, the $50k Dyptique Refrence, pushed by Audia Flight electronics and sourced by a Michell turntable (with DS Audio cartridge). Nowadays, coming throughout a brand new planar loudspeaker at a commerce present is a rarity (though AXPONA boasted a number of such introductions, one in every of which, as you will notice, was extraordinary). Though not BOS materials, the Dyptique was nonetheless particular—unusually impartial and practical. Maybe just a bit skinny in shade, it was, nonetheless, one in every of a small handful of audio system vying for “Best Intro.”
Once once more, an previous favourite, Vandersteen, confirmed its five-driver, three-way $41.7k Kento Carbon floorstander, pushed by an ARC preamp and Vandersteen’s personal amps, and sourced by an ARC DAC 9. As regular, the Kento made a wealthy pretty sound. Despite being a bit of lumped up within the bass as a result of room, it was nice on trumpet, sax, flute, and trombone.
The two-driver, two-way, $35k Acora Acoustics SRC-1 in a quartz enclosure was pushed by ampsandsound and VAC electronics and sourced by an SW1X DAC and a TW Acustik turntable. Unfortunately, the SRC-1 was very vivid after I got here into the room; to make issues worse, the bass was additionally poorly managed. When I returned on Day Three, these issues have been toned down, although SRC-1 was nonetheless a bit of vivid and spare and poorly outlined within the backside octaves. The speaker was additionally being performed too loud for such a tiny room.
The five-driver (a mixture of ceramic and aluminum cones), three-way $75k Marten Mingus Quintet 2 floorstander was being pushed by Jadis electronics. A bit of “ceramic-sounding,” which is to say clear, quick, detailed, and lean, the Mingus had a constant sonic stability from prime to backside (no low-end darkness or lumpiness). Overall, it was on the dry facet.
We now transfer to Floor 7, as 8, 9, 10, and 11 have been reserved for friends. the place the very first thing I got here throughout was the $75k Magico M2, pushed by Constellation electronics and sourced by Aurender. This is a speaker I’ve cherished because it was launched, and AXPONA didn’t upset the applecart (to combine metaphors). While not as wealthy in shade as the outstanding new S3, the M2 is extra delicate and detailed, although nowhere close to as deep-reaching. On Rhiannon Giddens’ “Do Right” and Leonard Cohen’s “Ain’t No Cure For Love,” it sounded extra like a ’stat than the S3 does. A borderline-BOS displaying.
The two-way, three-driver (woofer and concentric mid/tweet) $33.5k TAD ME1 stand-mount was powered and sourced by TAD’s personal electronics and cabled by Wireworld. Though gentle within the decrease octaves, it was in any other case fairly interesting on a Stevie Ray Vaughan lower.
The $49k Arion Audio Apollo 9 open-baffle line array with built-in sub was a bit one-noteish within the backside octaves however very open and wealthy in shade on sax, guitar, and different devices. Lively, with good broad staging, its chief weak spot was the sub—not a lot the mix because the extension. Still, this was a pleasant sound.
The undisputed winner of oddest loudspeaker at AXPONA was the $49k Orchestalls KMD 700R—a bizarre, multi-box, cone loudspeaker by which every of the containers is individually articulated by way of the arms of a giant adjustable stand. The humorous half was that it really sounded superb—amazingly coherent contemplating the variety of cones and containers in play. Rich, expansive, and full vary with pretty flat and well-defined bass in a tiny room, it was excessive among the many most fascinating intros at this (or any) present.
The five-driver, ribbon-tweetered, quasi-D’Appolito, $70k Raidho TD 3.2, pushed by Burmester electronics, sourced by a Vertere ’desk, and wired by RSX, was excellent on my Fabulous Basso D2D LP, completely excellent on Li-Paz’s voice. It might not have been as full and wealthy on piano as the perfect programs, but it surely got here shut. A superior loudspeaker.
The $43.2k Stenheim Alumine 3 SE, powered by Nagra electronics and sourced by Nagra digital and Baer analog confirmed fairly effectively on Leonard Cohen’s “Dance Me To the End Of Love.” Really fairly lovely sounding, the three SE may be very very similar to my reference Stenheim 5 SE, solely not as deep reaching. Even although the underside couple octaves weren’t being reproduced, there have been no different weaknesses I may detect and loads of strengths. Another close-to-Best-of-Show efficiency.
We come now to essentially the most pleasant shock of the present—one other full-range planar loudspeaker, this one from Switzerland and Vietnam (yup, it’s inbuilt Vietnam), the $36k Clarisys Minuet. This good-looking, extraordinarily sturdy, and seemingly well-made loudspeaker was being proven in two rooms, the primary the place it was pushed and sourced by Hegel electronics, the second (pictured right here) by Constellation electronics. Its efficiency in each rooms was merely excellent—super-depth, super-separation, super-speed, and fairly deep, decently well-defined bass. Above all else, the Clarisys sounded extra like the actual factor within the midband than absolutely anything else at an excellent and aggressive present. Happily, the Minuet can also be comparatively straightforward to drive (with a sensitivity of 88dB), not like the Apogee ribbons of previous, to which it bears a passing resemblance and will the truth is be partly modeled on. Obviously, the Clarisys is a Best of Show finalist.
Wilson Benesch was displaying its multiway, biocomposite-enclosed, isobaric-woofered, $102k Resolution 3Zero floorstander. Like earlier WBs, the threeZero is impartial in an nearly colorless method. This is nice for transparency and backbone, not so sizzling for timbre. Fast, outlined, and a bit of antiseptic, it is extremely full vary, however deliver your scarf and mittens as a result of it is usually very chilly.
My pal Jeff Catalano of High Water Sound supplied up a $65k Cessaro Horn Acoustics Opus horn speaker with Opus subs, pushed by unique TWAcustik Raven electronics and sourced by TWAcustik’s beautiful Raven LS-3 Copper turntable. This was a horn system that didn’t sound like horns—or, not less than, didn’t have their typical issues. Very a lot of a bit, very full vary, and really wealthy and pure in timbre—with no cupped fingers coloration—the Opuses made Ornette’s plastic sax, Don Cherry’s pocket trumpet, Ed Blackwell’s drumkit, and Charlie Haden’s bass sound “there.” It was additionally nice on Li-Paz’s basso and Rozsnyai’s live performance grand. This terrific horn system was additionally a BOS finalist.
Alta Audio was displaying its five-driver, quasi-D’Appolito $40k Titanium II Hestia floorstander, pushed by Infigo Audio Class A electronics. Neutral in timbre, the Hestia made for a pleasing hear.
Magico’s excellent M2 made a second look in MSB’s room, the place it was being powered by MSB’s 500 Series amplifiers and sourced by MSB digital (together with its fantastic new Digital Director controller). As within the Constellation room, the M2s confirmed extraordinarily effectively, sounding unusually liquid, nearly light, and three-dimensional with MSB electronics.
Tidal confirmed its $75k Contriva G2—a four-driver, three-and-a-halfway floorstander with black ceramic mid and bass drivers, a diamond tweeter, and Tidal’s Tiradur enclosure. Driven and sourced by Tidal’s personal electronics and wired with Signal Project cables, it made a very good displaying on Rhiannon Giddens’ “Do Right,” reproducing her voice with appreciable delicacy and beautiful timbre. Though a bit of skinny within the bass, it managed to do effectively by Low Cut Connie, too.
Børresen Acoustics additionally confirmed its five-driver, two-and-a-halfway, ribbon/cone, $94k 03 floorstander, pushed by Aavik’s new 880 Class A pre and energy amp. I didn’t know the Scandinavian music that was being performed, however the timbre was darkish and exquisite with breathy texture, strong imaging, and delicate decay. Bass went very deep with excellent assault and maintain—displaying significantly better linearity and management than previous Raidhos and Børresens. Indeed, this was one of the best bass I’ve heard from one in every of Michael’s giant audio system. That and the beautiful naturalness of the mids and treble made the 03 a Best of Show contender.
We come now—and ultimately—to the first-floor rooms, a lot of which have been fairly giant.
First up was Estelon’s beautiful, five-driver, $259k Extreme Mk II, with height-adjustabile higher module and a brand new tweeter that may be repositioned electronically for greatest section response. Driven and sourced by Vitus electronics and wired with Crystal Cable Da Vinci, the Extreme was seated in an enormous room that didn’t permit it to point out its greatest. Despite a bit of ceramic leanness on voices (like Diana Krall’s), it nonetheless had sufficient physique to make performers nearly seen and was a paragon of openness, with an excellent disappearing act.
Estelon was additionally displaying its fantastic $58k XB Diamond Mk II three-way, powered and sourced by Soulution Series 5 electronics with wiring and room/tools remedies by Synergistic Research. With dense, beautiful tone shade and fabulous dynamics, this was a Best of Show contender from the primary lower I listened to. It’s a pity that its large brother didn’t get the room (and Ted Denny’s room/tools remedies) that the XB loved.
As has usually been the case at exhibits previous, the massive, five-driver, three-way, D’Appolito configured, $155k Stenheim Reference Ultime 2, pushed by 4 VTL amps and preamp and cabled by Nordost, was a narrative of two days. On Day One, when it hadn’t but settled in, it was good however not nice on Ornette’s This Is Our Music and Li-Paz’s Fabulous Basso LPs. On the third day, it was a real contender—merely marvelous on Rhiannon Giddens, Sinematic, Doug MacLeod, Hans Theessink, et al. Imaging was excellent, tone shade was wealthy and lifelike, bass was sensational, and the system was audibly clear to miking and engineering. All in all, it was like a jumbo Alumine 5 SE—and, in fact, a Best of Show contender.
The $220k, granite-bodied, multi-driver Acora Acoustics VRC-1 was one other two-day affair. Driven by VAC electronics, the speaker was a mite sedate on Day One on the crisply plucked guitars of Saturday Night in San Francisco. The VRC-1 additionally had restricted soundstage depth, although stage width was wonderful. My Fabulous Basso LP was fairly good, although Li-Paz sounded a bit extra like a baritone than a basso, and the bass of Rozsnyai’s piano sounded lumped up. On Day Three, after the audio system had settled in (which should’ve examined the Renaissance Schaumburg’s flooring) and the prime listening seat had been moved a lot nearer to the Acoras, the sound was improved in presence. Soundstage depth was nonetheless restricted, and there was nonetheless a little bit of a hump within the 50–80Hz vary. On the Li-Paz D2D LP, for instance, the piano was a bit of free on the underside and never as wealthy in midband harmonics because it might need been. However, Li-Paz sounded extra like a basso, and the general presentation was fairly lifelike.
Wynn Audio was displaying the $70k Vimberg Tonda D three-way floorstanders, pushed by Karan electronics, sourced by a Kalista CD participant/DAC, and wired with Crystal’s Da Vinci cable. Though a bit of digital sounding total, the Vimberg was additionally extraordinarily clear and impartial, making for a pleasing, if barely analytic hear.
The five-driver, D’Appolito-configured, $33.5k Dynaudio Confidence 50 floorstander, pushed by Octave monoblocks and sourced by a Sim Audio 780D DAC, was surprisingly candy, delicate, and pure in timbre on digital. Among one of the best reasonably priced cone loudspeakers in my bailiwick, the Confidence 50 was terribly pure on voice. Very near a BOS finalist.
Finally, the multi-driver, line-array, $106k Scaena 12s with 4 dipole woofers per facet sounded only a bit dated. The woofers didn’t go very deep (e.g., on the bass and synth of The Black Keys “Shine A Light” from Let’s Rock); nor did they mix seamlessly, barely fudging the mids, decreasing transparency, and darkening tone shade.
JV’s Best of Show
A tie! Though totally different in sound and know-how, the Clarisys Minuet planar, the MBL 101E MkII omnis, the Magico S3 dynamics, and the Rockport Atria II dynamics all managed the trick of constructing musicians nearly seen—and making music of all sorts a sonic delight. (Note that the Stenheim Reference Ultime 2, the Borresen Acoustics 03, and the Gauder Acoustic DARC 200 have been shut runners-up.)
JV’s Best Introduction
Magico S3.
The submit The 2023 AXPONA Show: Jonathan Valin on Speakers $30k and Up appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
The following is a press launch issued by PS Audio.
Boulder, Colorado, April 6, 2023 – At AXPONA 2023 PS Audio will probably be showcasing all kinds of its high-end audio lineup together with the award-winning flagship aspen FR30 loudspeaker, the brand new FR20 speaker, the distinctive PerfectWave DirectStream DAC MK2, the ultimate-performance BHK Signature Mono 600 energy amplifiers and extra. The audio system and parts will probably be demonstrated utilizing high-resolution music from PS Audio’s acclaimed Octave Records label, and different high-res sources.
The exhibit will even function a preview of the upcoming PS Audio AirLens, a flexible high-resolution music streamer with modern options comparable to 100% galvanic isolation for noise-free efficiency from community audio, and a full vary of connectivity choices.
As a thanks to AXPONA 2023 attendees, PS Audio will probably be providing 20 p.c off urged US retail pricing on most merchandise (besides audio system, the Sprout100, the DirectStream DAC MK2, and energy cords).
Winner of the 2022 Ultra-High-End Loudspeaker of the Year award from The Absolute Sound, the aspen FR30 is a chic 3-way floorstanding tower that includes terribly low-distortion planar-magnetic and dynamic drivers and a number of revolutionary applied sciences to ship outstanding musical realism. (SRP: $29,999.00 USD)
The PerfectWave DirectStream DAC MK2 contains a host of newly-developed PS Audio applied sciences to ship distinctive sonic excellence in digital audio playback, together with FPGA gate array processing, fully-balanced operation and compatibility with PCM sources as much as 705.6 kHz and DSD 256. The DirectStream DAC MK2 additionally features as a digital preamp with quantity management. (SRP: $7,999.00 USD)
The new aspen FR20 loudspeaker brings the magic of the FR30 into extra peoples’ properties. Designed for extra modestly-sized rooms, the FR20 incorporates the applied sciences and engineering developments of its bigger sibling, together with symmetrical push-pull midrange and high-frequency drivers and full-range frequency response, in a smaller configuration. (SRP: $18,999.00 USD)
The BHK Mono 600 energy amplifier is the best amplifier ever created by PS Audio. The closing product to be designed in collaboration with the legendary Bascom H. King, the fully-balanced BHK Mono 600 delivers 600 watts of energy into 8 ohms (1,500 watts into 4 ohms), and contains a vacuum-tube enter stage working at the side of an unique N-channel MOSFET output stage. (SRP: $32,498.00 USD)
A bunch of extra PS Audio merchandise will probably be on exhibit together with the corporate’s standard-setting PowerPlant energy regenerators, the ultimate-performance BHK Signature Preamplifier, the PerfectWave SACD Transport, and plenty of extra.
These merchandise will probably be demonstrated at AXPONA 2023 at Room Schaumburg A within the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL, April 14 – 16, 2023.
The publish PS Audio to Exhibit Flagship aspen FR30 Loudspeaker and High-End Audio Components at AXPONA 2023 appeared first on The Absolute Sound.
WAM Engineering’s J.R. Boisclair, who manufactures and distributes WallyInstrument turntable arrange instruments does a fact-pact seminar clarify the 7 arrange goal factors and why they’re necessary for correct turntable arrange. I’ve been utilizing and recommending WallyInstruments for many years and watched J.R. enhance the merchandise after he took over for the late Wally Malewicz.
His seminar just isn’t product-based, however reasonably reality and knowledge primarily based. He’s examined a whole lot of expensive cartridges and located shockingly poor high quality management in lots of samples. His inspection service, which prices roughly $500 is cash effectively spent when you’ve invested 10X that a lot on a cartridge. If it’s solely barely “off” he can present a repair that may produce prime efficiency. if it’s means off, he can supply proof to justify your returning your buy for a correctly manufactured pattern.
After modifying this video and watching it a second time, I really feel absolutely assured in claiming that this video is amongst, if not an important and helpful video you will see on YouTube in case you are critical about vinyl playback and correct report care.
The submit What are the 7 Alignment Targets for Proper Cartridge Set Up? | Fremer at FLIAX 2023 appeared first on The Absolute Sound.