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NEWS RELEASE 1/3/12 WADAX of Spain, a world leader in advanced digital audio electronics and maker of the PRE 1 universal digital preamp / phono amplifier announces it reference loudspeaker's debut during the CES. Our active system demonstration will take place in the Venetian, 30th floor, room 232. The La Pasión is a three way $106,500, self powered digital loudspeaker. Only a source is required to complete the system. Each driver is independently powered. DACs inside each La Pasión loudspeaker have a specifically designed current output stage to directly drive the tweeter with no degradation of the DAC performance. Individual 400-watt Wadax digital amps drive the midrange and woofer modules. Additionally, binding posts are provided to externally amplify the midrange drivers if desired. All of the electronics including amplification and digital to analogue processing are contained in the mechanically isolated aluminum module at the bottom of the loudspeaker. The La Pasión also incorporates an analog input for use with any preamplifier. “In my quest for uncompromised sonic purity, there are no elements between the drivers and the power amplifiers. No cables, caps, inductors or resistors. The same D/A electronics inside the PRE1 Universal preamplifier are used inside each speaker. This allows maximum utilization of the Wadax proprietary musIC chip which manages the crossover, mechanical non-linearity corrections, amplitude and time alignment and all other signal processes”, said Guadalajara. For more information on the Wadax company and its products, please visit (www.wadax.eu). For dealer and country distribution inquiries worldwide please contact Rick Brown at Hi Fi One (www.wadax.us). NEWS RELEASE 1/3/12 At the 2012 CES show in Las Vegas, CEntrance, Inc. begins shipping its new Audiophile Desktop(tm) product bundle. The system packs a stereo pair of "MasterClass(tm) 2504" desktop 2-way coaxial speakers and the "DACmini(tm) PX" desktop amplifier and DAC. The bundle also includes a travel case with custom foam cushioning as well as speaker and USB cables. The Audiophile Desktop system was designed from the ground up to bring Hi-Fi sound straight to the desktop for today's Internet-connected consumers. The DAC, amp and speakers are closely matched and properly voiced to work in concert. The Audiophile Desktop bundle provides a complete digital audio listening solution for a street price of $2,000 USD and is available for ordering now. "Today's networked users, who spend their day at the desk, are forced to listen to inferior audio quality piped through standard computer speakers. That's no fun. We pioneered the Audiophile Desktop concept to free your music from consumer-grade sound, offering mastering-level audio quality in a compact, desktop-friendly format," states Michael Goodman, Managing Director of CEntrance. "We have tuned this system for performance and it offers better results than ad-hoc collections of components from several manufacturers. We're confident that the new Audiophile Desktop System will turn some heads and ears." The recently released, powered DACmini PX follows in the footsteps of the critically acclaimed DACmini CX, which has garnered glowing reviews from top magazines and websites internationally with its unique "musicality and sonic detail." Combined with stylish, compact design, it offers an array of useful features, such as analog and digital inputs and 192kHz / 24-bit capability. The new 'MasterClass 2504' near field speakers boldly define 'mastering-quality' sound for the listener's immediate environment. While professional musicians have long embraced 'near-field' monitors as a standard way to listen during music production and mastering process, the Hi-Fi community's link to smaller 'bookshelf' and 'computer' speakers typically falls short of sonic expectations. CEntrance, whose roots are in the Pro Audio community, is changing that with its new system of sonically balanced components. These components include features such as patented 'Co-planar' transducer technology (tweeter and bass driver working surface located on the same vertical plane), all-wood speaker construction, an integrated amp with volume control and on-board custom-designed digital 25-watt amplifier. All of this is built with the utmost care for technical integrity and quiet, interference-free performance. Each MasterClass 2504 speaker features a full-range two-way 4-inch transducer, a carefully tuned bass-reflex cavity, a musical cross-over circuit with custom frequency-shaping components and 25 watts of power-handling capability. The speakers are finished in black piano lacquer to match the black anodized finish of the DACmini PX. DACmini PX is a compact DAC with built-in Class A headphone and Class D speaker amplifier designed to perfectly complement the MasterClass 2504 speakers. It's a preamp and digital to analog converter with multiple I/O options including: USB, optical, coax S/PDIF, analog input and output, and a front-mounted 1/4-inch connector for professional headphones. It features a proprietary JitterGuard(tm) jitter elimination system, and plug-and-play driverless USB connection on Windows, Mac and Linux computers. Galvanically-isolated, gold-plated RCA connectors provide analog input and output. The extended range volume control is matched to the MasterClass speakers and also accommodates a wide array of headphones, from IEMs to professional high-impedance models. The DACmini PX's form-factor matches the classic Apple "Mac mini" computer footprint, creating a perfect platform for an audiophile-level music server on your desktop. Using the S/PDIF inputs the DAC features 192kHz 24-bit conversion quality. For the USB connection using ASIO, a free, downloadable CEntrance 'Universal Diver' is available from CEntrance. The Audiophile Desktop bundle is available for ordering now at a street price of $2000 USD. Come meet CEntrance at CES 2012 and experience the Audiophile Desktop for yourself. We are located at the entrance to T.H.E. SHOW at the Flamingo Hotel, see: http://www.theshowlasvegas.com CEntrance is expanding its dealer network. To inquire, please call +1 (847) 581-0500 or e-mail at sales@centrance.com. About CEntrance, Inc. Founded in 2000, CEntrance develops innovative audio entertainment products and licenses its technology to industry leading brands, such as Playback Designs, Bel Canto, Benchmark, PS Audio, and Lavry. Our portable recording and playback solutions have earned enthusiastic endorsements from artists such as Harry Shearer, Nathan East and Will Lee, and mastering engineers Bob Katz, Brian Gardner and sound designer Frank Serafine, among many others. CEntrance is headquartered in Chicago and distributes its products worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.CEntrance.com NEWS RELEASE 1/3/12 Introducing new ZL-120V2SE (Special Edition) monoblock power amplifier Nagano, Japan: Japanese high-end audio manufacturer Concert Fidelity (598-13 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Nagano, Japan; www.concertfidelity.jp) will exhibit its audio electronics at both T.H.E. Show and CES, to be held in Las Vegas, January 10-13, 2012. At T.H.E. Show (The Flamingo, Conference Room F), the demo system will include the new ZL-120V2SE (Special Edition) monoblock power amplifier which makes its world debut, the CF-080LSX2 line stage preamplifier, the SPA-4C phono equalizer, and the DAC-040 digital-to-analog converter. They will be shown with Estelon's XA Diamond loudspeakers from Estonia and Fono Acustica's Armonico cables and Sinfo power distributor from Spain. A 1970s vintage Denon DP-3000 turntable, restored and modified by Concert Fidelity, will provide vinyl spinning pleasure. At CES (The Venetian, Room 29-133), Estelon will showcase its XA Diamond loudspeakers with Concert Fidelity's CF-080LSX2 preamplifier, SPA-4C phono equalizer and ZL-120V2SE monoblock amplifiers. Masataka Tsuda, CEO and Chief Designer of Concert Fidelity, is flying in from Japan and is looking forward to showcase the ZL-120V2SE (Special Edition), his latest offering in solid-state amplification. The ZL-120V2SE is a combination of the audio circuitry of the ZL-120V2 and the power supply section of its bigger brother, the ZL-200. The SE version has a power transformer with double the capacity of the current V2 version. The rectification capacity is also doubled, and the capacity of power supply caps is increased by 50%. What this means is that the ZL-120V2SE is capable of delivering significantly more current when it's needed. Sonic improvements include more powerful and tighter bass, superior macro dynamics and the ability to drive less efficient loudspeakers with more authority. All this is achieved without compromising the existing virtues of the ZL-120V2—high speed, delicacy and exquisite rendition of details and micro dynamics—owing to its minimalistic design of the audio circuitry based on the BTL architecture with a relatively small number of MOSFET output devices. The MSRP of the ZL-120V2SE is $34,000 per pair. Concert Fidelity will continue to manufacture and distribute both the ZL-120V2 and the ZL-200 monoblock amplifiers along with the new ZL-120V2SE.
Concert Fidelity NEWS RELEASE 1/3/12 The Los Angeles and Orange County Audio Society is pleased to announce that the 2012 Founder's Award, the highest honor of the society, will be awarded to veteran audio designer Tim de Paravicini, President of E.A.R. of Great Britain. Very few modern audio designers can claim as much as Tim de Paravicini. No aspect of the recording and reproduction chain has been left untouched by him, no aspect of circuit design not further researched and developed. As early as 1965, Tim was involved in customer deign work for rock'n'roll bands, manufacturing his own public address equipment, and modifying existing studio equipment to realize its full potential. A move to South Africa from England saw further development of his unique design genius, and the launch of his own professional amplifier product, sold simply as “de Paravicini.” While working in South Africa, Tim had a chance meeting with representatives of the Lux Corporation, and in 1972 was invited to Japan and offered a job as audio designer. Tim soon put together some very interesting deigns for Lux, including the remarkable C100.M6000 pre-/power amplifier combination. One of this favorite designs form this period (and that of many others) was the Luxman MB3045 tube amp. This was the only mono-block amplifier available at the time, and backed up de Paravicini's preference for locating the power amplifiers close to the speakers. As with all of his designs, the output transformer was a custom design. In 1976, de Paravicini returned to England, and very quickly made an impact as a design consultant, initially working with the ALBA Radio Corporation and Tangent Loudspeakers. Tim was also responsible for several Michaelson and Austin tube amplifiers, including the TVA10 and the M200 mono-blocks. Within a year, he had set up Esoteric Audio Research Ltd., and was marketing the remarkable EAR 509 100-watt tube mono-block power amplifiers, for which he developed a unique output transformer/tube interface circuit called “balanced bridge mode.” The 509 proved that tubes are capable of performing on a par with transistors in the laboratory, and also that they are capable of something other than the “retro” sound some manufacturers strive for. Although the 509s were aimed at the professional market, several hi-fi magazines picked up on them, comparing them to the state-of-the-art contenders of the time. The fact that the 509s beat all of the competition explains why they are still in production today. In the years since forming his own company, Tim de Paravicini has developed a sizable catalog of hi-fi and studio components. The EAR professional range includes tube microphone preamplifiers, tube equalizers, A-to-D converters, plus custom components and servicing for some of the world's most famous recording artists. He is most famous in the studio industry for his tube master tape recorders. In 1985, de Paravicini introduced his record cutting system. Now installed at The Exchange in London (originally Island Records' Sound Clinic facility), the phase-corrected system uses over 1000 watts of power, provided by amplifiers based on the classic 509 design. The cutter head is, again, a custom design, capable of deeper, wider grooves than any other cutting system. The results are as close the sound of the master tape as it is physically possible to get. A similar system, as well the rest of the analog chain, was installed for Mobile Fidelity. Throughout his career, Tim has continued to do design work for other manufacturers, including Musical Fidelity, for whom he designed the hugely successful A1, A100, and B1 integrated amplifiers, and Quad, for whom he designed the II-eighty power amplifiers, the II-Classic Integrated, and the QC-twenty four P phono preamplifier. Tim de Paravicini is a true original. His sole purpose is taking audio to the furthest possible point of development, and he has proven again and again that he is capable of doing so. The Founder's Award will be presented to Tim de Paravicini at the 19th Annual Society Gala and Awards Banquet on December 2, 2012, in Los Angeles. Tim will give the Keynote speech at the event. He will be introduced by Daniel Meinwald, President of E.A.R.-USA. John Atkinson, Editor in Chief of Stereophile Magazine, will speak on the state of high-end audio in 2012. The Founder's Award is awarded annually by the Society's Board of Directors to those professionals in the high-end who continue to advance fine musical reproduction in the home and distinguish themselves as the best in their profession. The 2011 Founder's Award went to Richard Vandersteen, President of Vandersteen Audio. The 2010 Founder's Award went to Keith Johnson, Executive Producer of Reference Recordings, and the 2009 Founder's Award went to EveAnna Manley, President of Manley Labs. Previous winners include Harry Pearson, Founder Absolute Sound, Dave Clark, Editor Positive Feedback Online, Dennis Had, Founder Cary Audio, David Robinson, Editor in Chief Positive Feedback Online, and Ray Kimber, President Kimber Kable. The Los Angeles and Orange County Audio Society now celebrates its 19th year serving top audiophiles in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The largest audio society in the world with over 1000 members, the non-profit organization provides up to 14 major events per year in Greater Los Angeles and showcases and promotes the very best in great gear and recordings worldwide. Though the majority of members hail from Southern California, the Society boasts members from twelve states and nine countries. The Society, in conjunction with T.H.E. Show Newport Beach and Richard Beers, will again co-produce the largest home entertainment show in North America in Newport Beach, June 1-3, 2012, at the Newport Hilton on MacArthur Blvd. NEWS RELEASE 1/3/12 Audioengine today announced two computer audio interface products, the D1 Premium 24-bit DAC and D2 Premium 24-bit Wireless DAC. "We've just finished our 6th year and have done our best from the beginning to stay focused on designing great products for people that listen to music from their computers and iDevices" says Brady Bargenquast, Audioengine director. "And with the emergence of high-quality music downloads and advanced media player software, computer audio has now shifted into the domain of the true audiophile". Brady goes on to explain, "And in order to enjoy the full experience of these high-quality music files you need the right gear, such as the Audioengine D1 or game-changing wireless D2 DAC". Audioengine D1 - Stream high-quality audio from your computer to headphones, powered speakers, or any music system. D1 bypasses your computer's headphone output or soundcard and sends audio through the USB port, which will improve the audio quality of all your music - even if you don't listen to HD audio yet. The D1 is a computer DAC capable of converting audio files with bit depths of up to 24 bits and sample rates as high as 192KHz. Audioengine designers, with their attention to audio quality as well as visual aesthetics, have again created a feast for both the eyes and ears. The rounded D1 case reflects the traditional Audioengine design and its smooth audio fidelity is typical of Audioengine's commitment to great sound at an affordable price. In addition to being an excellent USB computer DAC, the D1 also includes an optical input for DVD/BluRay players, TVs, and game consoles. Setup is easy and no special software drivers are needed, making D1 a true plug-and-play digital audio solution. The D1 output connects to any audio system or powered speakers, such as the Audioengine A5+ or A2 and a high-quality headphone output is also included for headphone enthusiasts.
D1 Features Audioengine D2 - Stream wireless HD audio from your computer to any music system, independent of your Wi-Fi network. The D2 offers audio fidelity and features of DACs costing several times more, with one very important feature - it's wireless! "D2 truly is a breakthrough product for computer audiophiles", says Dave Evans, Audioengine director. "The ability to stream bit-perfect 24/96 audio wirelessly from your computer right to your music system not only keeps your computer away from the rest of your audio gear, but also minimizes nagging problems such as ground loops, induced cable noise, and extra jitter". Dave went on to explain, "The higher-end audio community has embraced computer audio but understandably consider it a sacrilege to put a computer next to their expensive music system. The D2 solves this dilemma and also includes a USB-to-SPDIF wireless bridge for those that already have a favorite DAC.” The D2 Sender will accept USB or an optical input and the D2 Receiver will output optical or analog audio through audiophile-quality RCA connectors. The system utilizes an over-the-air 24bit/96KHz PCM stereo digital stream in a "closed-system" Wi-Fi configuration and its proprietary RF technology ensures data integrity, with no impact on existing routers or networks. In addition, the D2 Sender can simultaneously transmit HD audio to up to 3 Receivers. The volume control is transmitted over an entirely separate channel, so there is no impact on the digital stream.
D2 Features:
Pricing and Availability NEWS RELEASE 12/31/11 MAGICO Q7 – A NEW REFERENCE The journey to create the finest unlimited class loudspeaker in the world has stretched the very boundaries of what is technically and creatively possible in loudspeaker design. Expanding the performance envelope of the paradigm shifting Q-Series has been an exponentially challenging task, setting even higher benchmarks than those achieved by our groundbreaking Q5. Our challenge at the outset was to blend radically new and cutting-edge technologies into a reference loudspeaker, which from the faintest whisper to the most eardeafening sound-pressure levels maintains a yet unheard degree of composure and fidelity. This challenge has been met. The result is a cost-no-object loudspeaker of limitless dynamics, high efficiency, extreme extension and redefined transparency. Everything we have expected and something we could have never imagined. Magico is proud to unveil the Q7. DRIVER TECHNOLOGY In order to achieve the lofty goals of this project under all operating conditions, each and every driver of the four-way, five-driver Q7 has been designed from the ground up. Effortless to drive, an astounding 94dB efficiency pushes the Q7 to unimaginable performance levels while maintaining every grain of resolution and nuance. To create such a highly efficient loudspeaker the entire complement required new motor systems backed with exceptionally powerful neodymium magnets, 10 times higher than industry norm. Dual 12-inch bass woofers and a 10-inch midbass bring Nano-Tec® cone technology into our largest Magico-designed drivers to date. Working together, they take resolution and extension through the lower octaves to a new level. ENCLOSURE Using Advanced Finite Elements Analysis to study ‘in-box' driver behavior, the Q-Series' construction techniques were redeployed in a configuration more finely tuned to the specific parameters of ‘driver to enclosure' interaction. Comprised of over 100 parts of aluminum, copper, and stainless steel, all affixed with over 650 fasteners in a calculated labyrinth of internal bracing, the Q7 provides the ideal combination of mass, dampness and rigidity. A new three-axis matrix frame, copper decoupling levels, and a 'floating' midrange cavity yield the most effective multi-faceted strategy of eliminating the cabinet as a secondary acoustic source, making the Q7 a remarkable architectural feat. CROSSOVER Magico's elliptical crossover techniques have been employed to create the Q7 4-way filters. Once again, we have partnered with industry leaders to create a new top shelf of components to meet the very special demands of this project. Custom ultra-high precision resistors, capacitors and coils were designed to comprise the crossover network. The Q7 is our finest achievement: a technical triumph that fully expresses the ultimate passion and capabilities of Magico. We can think of no better statement to make regarding our commitment to redefine the genre both technically and artistically, providing music lovers an unlimited and unedited space within which to experience sound like never before. The US Retail Price of the Magico Q7 is $165,000/pr. Delivery will begin in Q2 2012. NEWS RELEASE 12/11/11 Channel D, developers of innovative audio software solutions for Apple Macintosh computers—including the award-winning audiophile-quality Pure Music® software, a full-featured, high-resolution music player application—today released a major update to their acclaimed and award winning Pure Vinyl™ software for high resolution digital transfers of vinyl and other analog sources. The new Pure Vinyl 3, available now, represents a significant update including over two dozen new features and usability enhancements. The update includes new peak level finder and speedy Preview Output Levels features for setting the optimum signal levels of edited output tracks; nondestructive, quality-preserving "surgical" pop and click removal; plus an extremely innovative feature using virtual iTunes "Bookmark Tracks" for creating playlists of tracks from LP recordings, without needing to save individual music tracks (the Bookmarks simply point to locations in the original high resolution recording). Also included are the "Noise Gate" stylus drop detection with automatic record and pause; standard RIAA compensation plus over 60 antique (pre-RIAA) built-in (and customizable) compensation curves; adjustable low-cut rumble filter; a virtual line-level source selector (acts as a multi-input preamplifier); and of course the unique, innovative (patented) and fun "grab and spin" vinyl track editor that features realistic "vinyl" cue guide images which are generated from the audio to aid in cueing, track selection and editing, and more. High resolution (192 kHz 24 bit) recordings made from vinyl also can be converted to iPod or CD compatible portable formats by using the built-in high performance ultra high quality sample rate conversion feature. According to Rob Robinson, creator of the product, "this update is a culmination of what's been learned since Pure Vinyl was originally conceived over 8 years ago, and it has reached a stage of maturity in which everything is now delivered in a very nice package. I can say without reservation that it will be a pleasure for anyone to use, and should be the product of choice for those interested in making the highest quality high resolution digital transfers, as well as a modern way to listen to "live" vinyl—due to performing RIAA compensation in the digital domain, which has been shown to be superior to its analog counterpart." Pure Vinyl also includes the Pure Music music player application, which is built-in and available at the click of a button, allowing seamless enjoyment of the many powerful features of both of these music applications. The Pure Vinyl 3 update is free for all users. Visitors to www.channel-d.com can download a free, 15-day, unrestricted demo program to try before purchase. System requirements: a Macintosh computer running OSX 10.5 or later and a high quality audio interface (ADC / DAC) (see www.getting-started-with-computer-audio.com for more information). The full program can be purchased on the site for $279, but will be offered at the current introductory price of only $229 until January 16, 2012. Pure Music, included free with Pure Vinyl, simply and automatically docks with Apple's iTunes music player software. Pure Music leverages the user's familiarity of iTunes functions such as track selection, playlist management and music library navigation, while handling the audio playback via its own high-resolution 64-bit playback engine. The Bookmark Track feature works with Pure Vinyl for selecting and playing individual tracks from vinyl LP transfers without having to create separate copies of music tracks. When combined with a quality sound card or DAC, Pure Music delivers dynamic and detailed digital audio playback that has won worldwide attention and praise from audiophiles in numerous Internet forums and audio journalists in leading audiophile publications, both print and online. The powerful features of Pure Music include: • Automatic sample rate switching (44.1 to 384 kHz plus DSD 2.8 and 5.6 MHz transport support) • Gapless track playback and Memory Play • Apple Remote App Support • Dithered Volume Control • Adjustable 4-way Crossover • Native FLAC and DSD file playback (tracks appear in iTunes) • CoreAudio Device Hog and Integer Mode • Audio processing plug-in support • Optional real-time 64-bit upsampling • Uncompressed audio streaming support up to 384 kHz • Low CPU Footprint About Channel D Channel D has created and delivered popular and innovative audio software solutions for Apple Macintosh computers since 1997, when they introduced the acclaimed Mac the Scope audio signal analyzer software. For the past several years, Channel D has focused on innovative products aimed at professional audio analysis and audio enthusiasts, including Waavebox (audio signal generator), AudioLeak Professional (audio loudness equivalent level analyzer), the award winning Pure Vinyl, released in 2006, and the widely acclaimed and award winning Pure Music, introduced in 2010. Channel D's Seta (Italian for silk) phono preamplifier product line (which includes a Class A rating by Stereophile) provides a solid anchor point for Channel D's end-to-end product strategy, linking analog vinyl playback with high resolution digital audio. Dr. Robert Robinson, founder of and principal product designer at Channel D, formerly was a research scientist and project manager at Bell Communications Research (originally part of AT&T Bell Laboratories) in New Jersey.For nearly 30 years, Boulder Amplifiers has been America's premier manufacturer of high-performance audio electronics. We are very proud to announce the official release of the 3050 Mono Power Amplifier (MSRP US$195,000). The 3050 is the largest and most powerful amplifier in the history of Boulder's product range, delivering 50% more power than the 2050 Mono Amplifier, already widely acknowledged as the world's finest audio amplifier by no small margin. NEWS RELEASE 12/11/11 BEHRINGER, award-winning innovator of affordable professional audio and music equipment, is excited to announce the launch of the EUROSOUND consumer electronics brand -- concert quality sound at an amazing value. To celebrate the launch of 50 new consumer audio products, BEHRINGER will unveil the iNuke Boom, the loudest iPad®, iPod® and iPhone® dock you've ever heard at CES 2012. The $29,999.99 (manufacturer's suggested retail price) monster speaker system measures a whopping 8 feet wide by 4 feet tall, weighs over 700 pounds and pumps out over 10,000 Watts of power. The EUROSOUND line fully embraces a modern, European design while remaining true to BEHRINGER's roots in professional audio engineering. Four distinct product lines will be marketed under the EUROSOUND name. The Home line brings a professional, live concert sound from the stage into the comfort of your home. EUROSOUND Live products amplify your sound. EUROSOUND Portable products deliver a mobile audio experience anytime, anywhere, whie the Creation line proves you don't have to be a professional musician to make great music. The underlying quality in all EUROSOUND products is a commitment to delivering high performance audio at an incredible value, something BEHRINGER has been providing to musicians and audio professionals since the company's inception more than twenty years ago. The BEHRINGER mantra "Double the Features at Half the Price" will also translate to the EUROSOUND products. "When I started BEHRINGER 22 years ago my goal was to provide musicians with high quality equipment at an affordable price," said Uli Behringer, founder and CEO of Music Group LLC. "With the launch of EUROSOUND we are challenging ourselves to share the incredible sound and quality we have worked to so hard to craft over the last two decades with all music and audio enthusiasts." NEWS RELEASE 12/11/11 After an incredible five years since the Magico V3's first release, we are excited to introduce its successor, the S5. This three-way, four-driver floorstanding loudspeaker borrows heavily from the peerless Q-Series' technological arsenal and employs new manufacturing techniques to create what is the most value-laden Magico loudspeaker yet. The eye will be first drawn to the S5's uniquely new curved enclosure, which is the world's first utilization of ½" thick, 16" diameter extruded aluminum walls in a loudspeaker. Taking design cues from our iconic Mini, the cabinet design minimizes diffraction effects, internal resonance, and damping requirements. The elegant, paintable exterior offers a shallow profile that will complement a wide variety of end-user living environments. Available in our signature black anodized finish, the S5 is also offered in an array of high gloss and satin M-COAT® paint blends. A removable black grille is included – a first for a Magico speaker. Incorporating entirely new dual-10" Magico hybrid Nano-Tec® bass drivers, the S5 is capable of an astonishing output of 118dB (@ 50Hz-1 meter). Combining an outer cone ring of aluminum and a Magico Nano-Tec dust cap, the new drivers combine superb power handling in the low bass with distortion-free response at the top of their pass band. The S5 midrange's dual neodymium, underhung motor system with pure titanium voice coil former is powerfully efficient and extremely low in distortion. The tweeter is a beryllium diaphragm model found in selected competitors' $100,000+ reference offerings. A new neodymium motor system has been customized to match the S5's huge dynamic capabilities and power handling, while retaining its inherent wide dispersion and low distortion. As with all Magico drivers, the latest custom computer simulations are used to optimize electromagnetic and thermal behavior. Tireless research and development have provided the means for a distinct new product that is undoubtedly Magico. Continuing an uncompromising commitment to quality, design and performance, we are proud to welcome the S5 as the latest addition to our incomparable line of loudspeakers. Magico will be showing the S5 at CES 2012 in Las Vegas in the Magico Suite: Venetian Towers NEWS RELEASE 12/11/11 Audience today announced the introduction of its Au24e Low Z, High Z and MM phono cables, the first high-end phono interconnects that are impedance-matched to optimize the electrical characteristics of the phono cartridge to the cables and to the preamp. Given the extremely fragile nature of the signals coming from the phono cartridge, it is critical that every effort is made to preserve the integrity of those signals. Cartridge output levels can be quite low, typically in the 3-5 millivolt range and often as low as 100 microvolts. Because of the weakness of the signals, they can suffer significant degradation and loss when passing through a phono cable. "We have conducted considerable research into the electrical characteristics of phono cables and have concluded that any single cable cannot possibly be optimal for every phono cartridge," noted John McDonald, president of Audience. "This is why we now offer three different types of Au24e phono cables - to obtain the highest levels of fidelity and musical accuracy from the cartridge/cable/preamp interface in a high-end audio system." The available Audience Au24e models include the following: Low Z - for moving coil cartridges with internal resistance up to 30 ohms. High Z - for moving coil cartridges with internal resistance between 30 and 100 ohms. MM - for all cartridges with internal resistance above 100 ohms, which includes high output moving coil cartridges rated at 47k ohms and most moving magnet or moving iron models. The different internal electrical characteristics of phono cartridges make choosing a cable designed to preserve and enhance those characteristics an all-important consideration. Unless the cable is properly impedance-matched, precious low-level detail information can be lost that is essential to the overall sonic presentation. Each Audience phono cable is designed to optimize the electrical characteristics of the cartridge to the cable and preserve signal flow to the phono stage without detrimental influences. The performance of the cables is further enhanced by the use of continuous cast high-purity copper and low-loss cable geometry. Conventional copper wire has thousands of crystalline barriers in every meter. In order for the signals from the phono cartridge to pass through these barriers, energy has to be expended - and lost. When dealing with the ultra-low-level signals produced by phono cartridges, these harmful crystal barriers are significant impediments to the transmission of critical musical information and can cause audible signal degradation. For this reason, all Audience Au24e phono cables are constructed using the highest purity oxygen-free continuous cast copper. In addition, all Audience Au24e cables are shielded. About Audience Audience was formed in November 1997 by John McDonald and the late Richard Smith, as a design and production company focused on building the best possible audio and video equipment. To pass the Audience test, each product must truly make a significant contribution to the reproduction of audio and/or video. Audience offers loudspeakers, electronics, cables, power conditioners, high-resolution capacitors and the Auric Illuminator optical disk resolution enhancement. Audience's commitment is to develop the very best products possible, and the company is committed to unexcelled customer service and product support. All Audience cables have an unconditional lifetime warranty and power conditioners have a ten-year warranty. For more information visit www.audience-av.com. NEWS RELEASE 11/25/11 Soundmatters www.soundmatters.com, the leader in high-quality, portable speakers founded by former NASA engineer/audio legend Dr. Godehard Guenther, announced today the $149 holiday sale for the foxLTMv2 purist non-Bluetooth ultimate portable, available from Cyber Monday, November 28 through December 31, 2011. The perfect match for the new Kindle Fire, which offers a great picture but inadequate speakers, the foxLv2 pumps up the volume with superior sound quality in a small package. The Kindle Fire's lack of Bluetooth makes it an ideal match for the foxLv2, which connects to the Kindle Fire and other devices through the included audio cable. 12 Hours or More of Battery Life - Amazingly Good Hi-Fi Music in a Tiny Package The foxLv2 is the first pocket-sized speaker that audio purists love, with a range of unique sound features, such as foxL's patented "Twoofers," "BassBattery," and other technologies that provide a smoother deeper bass and an "open & airy" listening experience. The foxLv2 now offers up to 12 hours (or more) of battery life making it a great travel companion. A great gift for the holidays, you can bring the highly portable foxLv2 hi-fi audio speaker wherever you bring your Kindle Fire, iPad, or other device: on the road, at work for presentations, to play music at parties, watch movies in the living room, tailgate at football games, and much more. Priced at only $149 and incredibly small at 5.6" wide x 2.2" high x 1.4" deep, the foxLv2 features a full range of audio output from 80Hz – 20kHz with real bass for amazingly good music in a tiny package that fits with your portable lifestyle. The foxLv2 is priced at $149 from November 28 until December 31, 2011 (normally priced at $169), available immediately through major online retailers, including ListenUp.com, MusicDirect.com, Amazon.com and more, as well as through the Soundmatters site at: www.soundmatters.com. It comes with the portable speaker, re-chargeable built-in woofer/battery, universal AC power charger, four international charger adapters (for US, Japan, Europe/China, UK/HK, and AU/NZ), USB computer charging cable, stereo 3.5mm audio cable, wrist strap, travel pouch, anti-slip mat, and manual. An optional bike mount is also available. Soundmatters provides a wireless Bluetooth version with speakerphone capability, the foxLv2 Bluetooth, priced at $199. Award-Winning foxL Line of Portable Speakers The foxLv2 line of portable speakers has won numerous industry awards and accolades, including Time Magazine's "Top 10 Gadgets of the Year." Sound & Vision said it is "the absolute best gift ever for the audiophile…fundamentally changes how and where we can enjoy great sound…it's that good!" And CNN said, "So, travelers of all stripes, or any of you looking for a small system for your room or office that can fit in your pocket and go for a good long time on a full charge, this is ultimate gear." For more information, see the Soundmatters site at: www.soundmatters.com. NEWS RELEASE 11/25/11 Energy, a Klipsch Group, Inc. brand and industry leader in audio engineering and development, announces today the introduction of the Energy Power™ Bar Elite, the brand's second soundbar debuting in the Energy Power™ Series. Employing plug n' play functionality, Dolby® Digital Decoding and 3D Surround Mode, this soundbar instantly upgrades any sound system with undeniable power. For more information, please visit Energy-Speakers.com. NEWS RELEASE 11/25/11 Onkyo has introduced a compact home music system with two loudspeakers that is designed to deliver high-quality sound from compact discs, FM/AM radio, and music files stored on an iPod or iPhone. It can also display iPod/iPhone video on an external monitor. The new Onkyo CS-345 CD Mini System has a built-in dock for iPod/iPhone, a CD player, and an FM/AM radio. The CS-345's digital power amplifier drives a pair of two-way bass-reflex loudspeakers to high output levels with exceptional sound quality. With its compact size and modest $299 suggested retail price, this system is ideal for a bedroom, office, kitchen, dorm room, or almost anywhere. Since Onkyo has always put an emphasis on sound quality, the CS-345's performance-oriented loudspeakers use a separate dome tweeter for crisp detailed imaging, plus a 4-inch woofer in a bass-reflex enclosure to provide outstanding bass for its size. Most comparable products only use single speakers that are inadequate to handle the full acoustic range. The CS-345 uses a highly-efficient digital power amplifier to maintain the wide dynamic range of digital sources. ActiveBass Control automatically adjusts bass content depending on the listening volume, while Super Bass adds gravity to the music. Because the amplifier and speakers are perfectly matched, the system runs very cool while generating high output and dynamic range with very low distortion. The CS-345's built-in dock supports iPod classic, iPod touch (Gen1-4), iPod nano (Gen2-6), and iPhone, iPhone 3G/3GS/4. It supports recharging and alarm for power-on. The CS-345 has a video output jack to play iPod/iPhone video on TV. The CD player supports CD, MP3 CD, CD-R, and CD-RW. Also included are stereo input jacks for playback from other gadgets, such as Android devices. Lastly, there is also a subwoofer output and a front-panel headphone jack. The Onkyo CS-345 is now available with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $299 NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11 Benchmark Announces ‘DEAD or ALIVE Trade-Up' Program For Non-Benchmark DACs. Due to the successful response to Benchmark Media Systems' first ‘Trade-Up' program, Benchmark is expanding the ‘Trade-Up' program to accept any digital to analog converter, "dead or alive." The program gives potential Benchmark customers a cost-effective way to upgrade to Benchmark's latest technology. Credit is limited to 50% of the original purchase price up to $800, depending on trade-in product. "Benchmark is very excited to expand the ‘Trade Up' program to accept all brands of DACs," said Rory Rall, Sales Manager. "The program will allow potential customers to upgrade to the high-performance DAC1 HDR." The Trade-Up program is only valid to customers in the United States. Offer applies to direct sales only. The program starts on November 15, 2011 and ends on December 16, 2011. For full details, customers can call 1-800-262-4675 or visit: http://www.benchmarkmedia.com/trade-up Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. has been a privately held manufacturer of precision audio electronics for professional and audiophile applications since 1983. All Benchmark products are manufactured in the U.S.A. NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11 UltraLink Products Inc, an innovative and prolific manufacturer of award-winning audio and video interconnects, cables and AC power products, welcomes industry veteran PJ Zornosa as National Sales Manager for XLO. PJ's experience in our field is vast; he's worked with Quad, Denon and Terk Technologies, Bel Canto Design and Joseph Audio Speakers amongst others, with a special focus on independent specialty A/V dealers. "There's tremendous value in the XLO brand, a long tradition of ultra-high performance cables that many reviewers used as a reference," recounts PJ. "The price-sensitive Reference 3™, exciting Signature 3™, and new UltraPlus™ incorporate many of the innovations and technologies that made XLO famous and create a new benchmark in high-quality, affordable ultra-performance cables." "We're extremely happy to welcome PJ to the fold and have great confidence he'll do a terrific job with XLO," enthuses Allen Sung. "Both Signature 3 and Reference 3 use XLO's ultra-effective exoskeleton -- surface/diving -- Field Balanced™ Geometry with all-PTFE dielectrics, core structures and jacketing. XLO reduces stored energy with low-mass dielectrics using the best materials with the minimum dielectric constant and the fastest release rate; the quicker the energy imprint returns from the dielectric the less distortion in the signal. As a result you'll hear more deeply and feel more connected to music than ever before!" "I'll be talking to you soon!" warns PJ! NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11 KEF Unveils 50th Anniversary Book: KEF 50 Years of Innovation in Sound. Elegant, full-color hardbound book chronicles KEF history through in-depth interviews and never before seen pictures and documents. As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, KEF, the renowned manufacturer of innovative, reference-quality loudspeakers, has introduced KEF 50 Years of Innovation in Sound, the definitive study of KEF's first half century. Co-authored by former KEF engineer Dr. Andrew Watson and acclaimed audio historian Ken Kessler, the elegant, 216-page hardbound book covers the period from KEF's founding in 1961, through the release of KEF Blade in 2011 in a story told by over 30 KEF employees and associates. "This book is a must-have for all audio enthusiasts," said Alec Chanin, president of KEF America. "KEF has a rich history of product and technology innovation and KEF 50 Years of Innovation in Sound does a tremendous job of documenting our legendary company through the last half century." KEF 50 Years of Innovation aggregates thousands of never-before-released printed materials, photos and company records with over 60 hours of interviews with individuals who helped shape the KEF brand. Current and former staff members contribute their recollections to recount the entire span of the company, from it's beginning in the form of Kent Engineering and Foundry, which gave the fledgling loudspeaker brand its name. Newly-captured images of classic KEF models and series and comprehensive listings of every product produced by KEF, including every drive unit, make this the most authoritative reference work an audio enthusiast could desire. KEF 50 Years of Innovation is available for purchase through authorized KEF retailers, including Music Direct, with a MSRP of $89.99. For more information on KEF's 50th Anniversary celebration, please visit http://www.kef.com/thefifty/. NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11Bryston, LTD (www.bryston.com), designers and manufacturers of the finest audio electronics for both consumer and professional applications has announced that the highly anticipated SP-3 processor/preamplifier is now shipping to authorized Bryston dealers worldwide. The SP-3 will provide 2-channel stereo output as well as 5.1, 6.1 and 7.1 surround output modes and decoding is provided for Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio as well as the more standard Dolby and DTS formats, in 5.1, 6.1 or 7.1 channels. The Bryston SP-3 has an MSRP of $9500 US and is available now. See and hear the Bryston SP-3 in action at CES 2012: The Venetian Bassano Ballroom 2601. Unique Approach: The Bryston SP-3 is first and foremost an ultra high performance audio product. Unlike most surround processors that have been designed to emphasize features over sonic performance, Bryston employs Class A discrete analog circuitry throughout rather than cost-saving Integrated Circuits (IC's). And like other Bryston components, the SP-3 utilizes separate and carefully isolated power supplies for the analog and digital circuit paths (achieves lower noise floor) plus modular construction to facilitate future upgrades. While most theater processors provide an analog pass-through option that moves the audio signal through undesirable digital circuitry before it exits the device, the Bryston SP-3 provides true analog pass-through for 2-channel as well as 5.1 and 7.1 surround formats that eliminates all digital circuits from the signal path. "It was very important to the overall value proposition of the SP-3 that this product has real longevity in the marketplace," stated Bryston's James Tanner. "Considering the volatility of rapidly changing video formats, Bryston has chosen to simply pass the video signal through the SP-3 untouched to the display. This helps future-proof the SP-3 while emphasizing Bryston's expertise in delivering the finest audio performance possible," Tanner added. When switching sources on the SP-3, audio and video signals switch together, eliminating the need for external video switching devices. Ease of Use: The Bryston SP-3 is the first high performance processor designed to make home theater easy for the non-technical user. For example, most functions are automatic, controls are well labeled, and there are clear unambiguous display windows. Step-by-step set-up menus are provided and a user-friendly yet comprehensive owner's manual make initial set-up simple and straightforward. Bryston also supplies each SP-3 with factory settings that include the most common configurations dialed in and ready for playback. Firmware updates and global system diagnostics are handled via the home network, making service a breeze for both dealers and end users.
NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11 Audio
specialist
Sennheiser announced the introduction of its stylish new HD 200 and
HD 400 series headphones. The line includes six new models: the HD 219,
HD 229, HD 239, HD 429, HD 439 and the HD 449 headphones.
HD 219: The HD 219 features a rich sound and dynamic bass. The closed ear cups keep background noise to a minimum, and the minimalist, yet sophisticated design is both fashionable and flexible. (Street price: $59.95) HD 229: The HD 229 offers thick, rich bass performance and is available in white with orange accents or black with deep red accents. Powerful neodymium magnets help deliver a precise stereo sound with impressive depth. The closed ear cup design helps keep the sound in and background noise out. (Street price: $79.95) HD 239: The HD 239 features outstanding and balanced sound and is optimized for both portable players and home audio systems. With powerful neodymium magnets and a frequency response of 16 to 23,000 Hz, the HD 239 provides hyper-realistic and detailed sound reproduction. (Street price: $119.95)
HD 429: The closed-back HD 429 headphones feature powerful, dynamic bass response and a modern design. The tangle-free, single-sided cable and replaceable leatherette ear cushions offer a comfortable listening experience. A ¼-inch adapter is included for use with home stereo systems. (Street price: $79.95) HD 439: The closed-back HD 439 features a futuristic transport-inspired design, and plush, breathable earpads. Powerful neodymium magnets offer stereo sound with powerful bass performance. The headphone includes an exchangeable cable for easy toggling between home stereo systems and portable devices. (Street price: $99.95) HD 449: The closed-back HD 449 is acoustically tuned for lifelike detail and natural frequency response. This design shields against outside noise, and an additional extension cable makes it easy to lounge at home beside a stereo system or on-the-go using portable devices. An convenient storage pouch is included. (Street price: $119.95) For more information on these or any other Sennheiser products, please visit www.sennheiserusa.com or contact an authorized Sennheiser retailer. NEWS RELEASE 11/15/11Linn Digital Music Collections - Available until 31st December 2011. Back by popular demand Linn's brilliant value, no-hassle, highest quality Digital Music Collections make a welcome return for a limited time only. And, for the first time, our premium Digital Music Collections are all available in Apple Lossless as well as FLAC. Each collection is expertly put together, with all artwork included and embedded, ready for you to enjoy. And as if having the best ever digital music isn't enough, we also include the CD Quality and MP3 versions of each album as well, should you wish to burn to a disc or listen on your iPod. Choose from one of our five specially compiled Digital Music Collections then sit back whilst we pre-load a wealth of music onto a portable USB hard-drive and ship direct to your front door. 2011 Top 50 Studio Master Collection 2011's top fifty best selling Studio Master albums; a taster collection specially selected from the greatest albums of the year. All-time Top 50 Studio Master Collection Our top fifty best selling Studio Masters of all-time. The perfect choice to get your Studio Master collection off to a flying start. Classical Label of the Year Collection The strength of Linn's classical catalogue saw the label crowned ‘Label of the Year' by Gramophone and this celebratory collection comprises fifty of Linn's finest classical recordings. Including the multi award-winning ‘Mozart Symphonies 38-41' by Sir Charles Mackerras and the SCO, as well as the bestselling classical album of 2011, ‘Kuniko Plays Reich' by percussionist Kuniko Kato and seasonal favourite ‘Handel: Messiah' by the Dunedin Consort. Complete 2011 Studio Master Collection Want to bring your Studio Master music library right up to date? This collection of over 100 albums includes all the music released on Studio Master in 2011. This means you can enjoy Bob Dylan from Barb Jungr, beautiful Brahms from Julia Fischer, ambient electronica from Jon Hopkins and acoustic intimacy from Maeve O'Boyle. The Ultimate Studio Master Collection Kick start your Studio Master library with the Ultimate Collection which includes every Studio Master album currently available. That's not just Linn's own award-winning titles but every single release from our partner labels too. That's over 300 albums! NEWS RELEASE 11/5/11 CEntrance, Inc., announced today the hiring of Michael Mercer as company's new Director of Marketing. In his new role Mr. Mercer will be responsible for building the CEntrance brand in the Hi-Fi and Consumer Electronics channels. A boutique Design Agency for dozens of famous audio brands and a growing manufacturer of fine audio products, CEntrance adds Mr. Mercer to its team to build market awareness of its award-winning home audio solutions. The latest additions to the CEntrance product line are DACmini PX(tm)-a desktop Integrated Amplifier with an Audiophile DAC and Headphone Amp, and DACport LX(tm) -the world's smallest 24/96 USB DAC. CEntrance brings over 10 years of experience in the Professional segment of the Music Industry to the home Hi-Fi environment, creating a new category of 'Pro-Audiophile' products, which offer the sound quality of hand-made artisan tools, yet are designed and built to professional standards, utilizing latest manufacturing technology. Michael Mercer got his start in the music industry at Atlantic Records and Warner Music. Having mentored under the legendary Grammy award-winning producer Arif Mardin he worked with artists such as Jewel, Sugar Ray, the Corrs, Chaka Khan, and Brandy. As a music writer Michael has contributed to The Absolute Sound, HiFi+, Positive Feedback Online and many other publications. Most recently, Mr. Mercer focused on brand-building and social media marketing for several leading Hi-Fi brands. "At a time of growing support for our innovative audio solutions we are especially excited to bring Michael on board to help us write the next chapter in our company's history," said Michael Goodman, Managing Director of CEntrance. "With Michael as part of our team we will focus on building even greater products for our customers in the years to come." CEntrance just released DACmini PX - a compact Integrated Amplifier with a 192kHz, 24-bit Digital to Analog Converter, Class A Headphone Amplifier and Class D power amplifier. Featuring a host of connectivity options including USB and S/PDIF, DACmini's stylish form-factor creates a perfect Audiophile Desktop - a high quality music system for Professional and Home Audio applications alike. CEntrance is expanding its dealer network in the pro, home and installed sound industry segments. To inquire about becoming a dealer, please call +1 (847) 581-0500 or e-mail us at sales@centrance.com. About CEntrance, Inc. Founded in 2000, CEntrance develops innovative audio entertainment products and licenses its technology to industry leading brands, such as Bel Canto, Benchmark, PS Audio, and Lavry. Our portable recording and playback solutions earned enthusiastic endorsements from artists such as Harry Shearer, Nathan East and Will Lee, and mastering engineers Bob Katz, Brian Gardner and Frank Serafine, among others. CEntrance is headquartered in Chicago and distributes its products worldwide. For more information, visit www.CEntrance.com or call +1 (847) 581-0500. NEWS RELEASE 11/5/11 "Bit Perfect" USB Performance with 24-bit/192kHz data ! This interface is achieved with a new digital input board using the highly regarded XMOS XS1 microprocessor as an input receiver, allowing for fully asynchronous data communication. All MOON 650D's and 750D's manufactured from this point forward will be equipped this High-Resolution USB interface. For units manufactured prior to November 2011, a straightforward in-the-field upgrade path can be performed by an authorized MOON retailer or distributor; This entails a simple PCB swap which requires no soldering or firmware updates – the new board uses all existing mounting hardware and connectors. Besides the increased bit-depth and sampling rate for USB data input, several design enhancements have led to an overall improvement in the sonic performance of the S/PDIF, AES/EBU and optical digital inputs. Effective immediately, MOON Evolution Series 650D and 750D DAC/CD Transports will now accept data streams up to, and including, 24-bit/192kHz on all digital inputs.
NEWS RELEASE 11/5/11 SUMIKO announces today the appointment of Adrienne Alterman to the position of Regional Sales Manager covering the South Central territory which includes the states of Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Kansas. Ms. Alterman will be representing SUMIKO's exclusive portfolio of brands that includes Sonus faber loudspeakers, REL sub-bass systems, Wadia Digital, digital audio components, Pro-Ject Audio Systems turntables and electronics, SME turntables and tonearms, Sumiko Phono Cartridges and Okki Nokki record cleaning machines. Adrienne literally grew up in the audio industry as her father owned the New Orleans based three store chain, Alterman Audio. It was this early exposure to high-performance audio that would later become her chosen career path. Upon graduation from the University of Denver, Adrienne joined audio retailer ListenUp as Executive Assistant to founder/co-owner Walt Stinson. During the next five years she rose the ranks within that organization working in E-Commerce, Promotions, Store Transitions as well as Retail Sales. Norbert Schmied, VP Sales, SUMIKO said "Adrienne brings to our group a unique skill set that will be of great benefit to our retail partners. She has seen the high-end audio industry from several prospectives and I know she will become an asset to the specialty retailers SUMIKO supplies with world-class brands". "I am tremendously excited about joining SUMIKO. Their brands are some of the world's finest audio products and for me, it is an honor to represent them. I look forward to meeting the dealers from across the region. Everything about this new position should be an opportunity to grow and learn." Millennia Music & Media Systems debuted their ultra-high performance NSEQ-4 parametric equalizer at the recent AES show in NY. It is designed for the engineer that doesn't need the versatility of having the NSEQ-2's Valve and Solid State circuitry in the same unit. "The NSEQ-4 combines the musicality of the NSEQ-2 with a substantial increase in soundstage," commented award-winning engineer Bruce Leek. Shipping will begin in December 2011. The MSRP is $4.605. NSEQ-2 owners can have their units converted to the NSEQ-4 at the factory. ($800). NEWS RELEASE 11/5/11 Marantz America, a world leader of advanced home entertainment solutions, today announced the introduction of its TT42 High-Performance Turntable (SRP: $399) (http://us.marantz.com/TT42). The meticulously engineered DC Servo belt-driven TT42 is designed as an entry-level turntable ideally suited for the growing numbers of music lovers who are discovering – or rediscovering – the benefits of an analog vinyl listening experience. Notably, for music lovers with amplifiers or receivers that do not include a dedicated phono stage input, the TT42 is also available with a built-in phono preamplifier that boosts volume and equalizes sound, for a suggested retail price of $429. Advanced, Entry Level Source Component for Analog Listening The Marantz TT42 offers total user convenience and musical superiority, with a specially designed Moving Magnet cartridge for stellar performance right out of the box. Its low-noise DC servo motor is smooth and quiet running, with a fully floating chassis for uninterrupted LP play. The automatic tone-arm return and stop functions deliver trouble-free operation, while the metal bearing and rubber belt drive add to the response, musicality and overall performance of the component. The result is a vinyl listening solution superbly suited for the modern age, one that will allow everyone to enjoy their old and new record collections in style. Noted Jim Ludoviconi, Brand and Product Manager for Marantz America: "Recent figures from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) show that vinyl LP sales grew 26% in 2010. The resurgence of interest in vinyl music comes as a welcome development for Marantz, which has always understood and appreciated the rich, pure and warm musicality provided by analog gear. That's why we have continued to offer analog music lovers a full range of the world's most sophisticated, easy-to-use, high-performance analog componentry. With the introduction of the TT42, we are giving more people the opportunity to enjoy the elevated vinyl listening experience at a new accessible price." About Marantz Marantz America, LLC is committed to upholding the tradition of technological superiority initiated by founder Saul Marantz. In keeping with this emphasis on quality, Marantz audio and video components are carried only by the nation's premier audio/video specialty retailers. Additional information is available at www.us.marantz.com and www.facebook.com/marantzamerica. Marantz America, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of D&M Holdings Inc. NEWS RELEASE 10/10/11 Synergistic Research is introducing a new line of cables with direct trickle down technology from their cost no object Galileo System cables. The world's first interconnects and speaker cables to feature pure Tungsten conductors, Actively Shielded Air Dielectrics and Enigma Tuning Bullets for Active Shielding, the new Element Series delivers game changing performance at thankfully down to earth prices.
The Element Series of Speaker Cables and Interconnects consist of:
Retail price for 1 meter interconnects start at $1200 for Element Copper, $2000 for Element Tungsten and $3600 for Element Copper/Tungsten/Silver Retail price for an 8 ft pair of speaker cables start at $1700 for Element Copper, $2800 for Element Tungsten and $7500 for Element Copper/Tungsten/Silver Introducing a new product category "The Music Cable", the ultimate All-In-One Computer Audio Solution featuring:
Separately these technologies retail for over $7000 "The Music Cable" is a plug and play computer audio solution. Limited time introductory price $3599 World debut of these new technologies will be at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest 2011 in Denver, CO, October 14th - October 16th, at the Marriott Tech Center Hotel in room # 8030 NEWS RELEASE 10/10/11 This Month at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver, CO Electrocompaniet is launching a new multiplayer in our Classic line, the EMP 2 is a fully fledged and versatile player with support for all modern audio and video formats and media. Included Blu-ray in 2D and 3D, CD, SACD, DVD and DVD Audio. Modern video- and audio processing in both two- and multichannel gives excellent picture quality and High End sonic quality. Lots of connections give great flexibility both for use in a surround or stereo set-up, or a combination of the above. The EMP 2 is a real multiplayer that works perfectly as a player in multichannel set-up and as a two-channel CD or SACD player. The EMP 2 offers both RCA and XLR balances outputs – the way you would expect it from an Electrocompaniet product.
EMP 2 will be available in October and will have a MSRP of $ 3,999.00 Electrocompaniet - 38 years of quality Hi-Fi products from Norway Electrocompaniet was established in 1973 and is the leading Norwegian manufacturer of high quality Hi-Fi equipment. The product range consists of CD-players, DAC's, amplifiers and speakers available on both a Classic line and a budget line named Prelude. Electrocompaniet products are made in Norway and sold by authorized distributors and dealers in more than 50 countries. For more information please contact: Chief Operating Officer: Peder Beckman 510-291-1222 - 510-291-1223 sales-usa@electrocompaniet.com NEWS RELEASE 9/2211 The first US appearance of the new 885 Integrated Power Amplifier will debut this October at RMAF 2011. This unique amplifier design represents a pinnacle in the evolution of solid state technology. The 885 opens a whole new chapter: the circuit design principle of the "single ended push-pull" amplifier, which was derived from valve technology, is being employed for the first time ever in a fully-symmetrical transistor amplifier with current feedback. The unique combination of these technologies yield a decisive advantage in audio quality: providing the listener with increased "speed", "accuracy", musical realism, and less listening fatigue at all volume levels. RMAF 2011: 11th Floor, Room #1118 Norbert Lindemann will be on hand, from Germany, to further explain this unique approach. Come and audition our Lindemann system as we provide a musical presentation consisting of: Analog, High Definition Computer Streaming and Compact Disc. For additional information on all Lindemann products, please visit the company's website at http://www.lindemann-audio.de/en/
Jonathan Josephs NEWS RELEASE 9/2211 MIT Cables, the Rocklin, CA based technology company known for its unique "networked" speaker cables and interconnects announced today the release of two new reference cables: The Oracle V1.3 HR Speaker Interface and the Oracle V2.3 HR Speaker Interface. This latest release improves upon the well regarded 2C3D ("Two Channel, Three Dimension") lineup of products engineered by Bruce Brisson by employing Fractional Articulation Technology (F.A.T.) first introduced in MIT Cables' Maximum Articulation product line in 2010. These newly released products are available exclusively through MIT's authorized Online Distributors. You can find links to these authorized partners by visiting http://www.mitcables.com/where-to-buy/online-dealers.html.
What is F.A.T.?
What is 2C3D? Imagine yourself in the back row of an auditorium listening to your favorite piece of live music. 2C3D technology effectively picks you up and places you right in the exact sweet spot of the auditorium. You are then able to perfectly experience the directionality and dimensionality of the performance. This is the 2C3D experience. To learn more about Oracle V1.3 HR and Oracle V2.3 HR Speaker Interfaces, please visit http://www.mitcables.com/highresolutiontechnology.html NEWS RELEASE 9/2211 KingRex annouces the new USB D/A converter - UD384 will be available in Oct. UD384 supported the sampling rate 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, & 384Khz and bit rate: 16,24,32bit. For providing the best performance, KingRex also design one battery power supply -U power. It makes the high definition audio now is available at very affordable price. UD384 (32bits/384Khz USB DAC ) US$429/pc U Power Pure DC output battery power supply unit. US$179/pc NEWS RELEASE 9/2211 CEntrance, Inc., will be again exhibiting at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest (RMAF) in Denver CO., October 14, 15 and 16. A boutique Design Agency and Manufacturer of fine audio products, CEntrance will showcase their recently released DACmini CX(tm) - an audiophile headphone amp and digital audio converter and DACport LX(tm) - the world's smallest 24/96 USB DAC. In addition, CEntrance will premier a new, custom-built interconnect cable designed for perfect synergy with DACport and DACport LX. The cable is part of the new Reserve Series and features audiophile-grade copper for reproduction accuracy, gold-plated terminals for low impedance connection, gunmetal finish for strong outside protection, and a 3-layer braided outer shield to preserve signal integrity. The cable features a Stereo 1/4" Jack and Dual RCAs. CEntrance brings over 10-years of professional audio sensibility to the home Hi-Fi environment creating a new category of 'Pro-Audiophile' products. The CEntrance booth will be located in Room C15 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center Hotel. For more information on the RMAF visit: http://audiofest.net/2011/ Michael Goodman, Managing Director of CEntrance, will be on-hand to speak with attendees, answer questions, and demonstrate the growing line of CEntrance "Pro-Audiophile" products. "DACport is the World's smallest USB DAC with audiophile sound and it needed a proper interconnect cable allowing connections to headphone amps, preamps, amplified speakers and any other stereo equipment", said Goodman. "We are excited to bring out our new Reserve Series cables, which are designed for perfect synergy with the DACport. They complete the package nicely." The recently released DACmini CX is a compact 192kHz, 24-bit Digital to Analog Converter and Class A Headphone Amplifier. It's a DAC and Headphone Amp with multiple I/O options including: USB, optical, Coax S/PDIF, analog input and output, and a front-mounted 1/4-inch connector for professional headphones. DACmini's stylish form-factor matches the classic Apple "Mac mini" computer footprint, creating a perfect platform for an audiophile-level music server. Priced at $795, DACmini CX excels at Professional and Home Audio applications alike. CEntrance is expanding its dealer network in the pro and home industry segments. To inquire about becoming a dealer, please call +1 (847) 581-0500 or e-mail us at sales@centrance.com. About CEntrance, Inc. Founded in 2000, CEntrance develops innovative audio entertainment products. CEntrance is known for its co-development work with industry leaders such as Gibson, Benchmark, PS Audio, KORG, and Line 6. Our customer-focused approach blends quality, innovation, and operational efficiency. CEntrance is headquartered in Chicago and distributes its products worldwide. Key products include new DACmini, MicPort Pro, AxePort Pro, and DACport, which offer portable, professional recording and playback quality, earning enthusiastic endorsements from artists such as Harry Shearer, Nathan East, Frank Serafine and Will Lee, and mastering engineers Bob Katz, Brian Gardner, Michael Romanowski and Mike Wells, among other music industry professionals. For more information, visit www.CEntrance.com or call +1 (847) 581-0500 NEWS RELEASE 9/2211 Soundsmith, Inc., a 35 year old company specializing in the design and manufacture of very fine phono cartridges, audio electronics, loudspeakers, and extraordinarily clever accessories for the audio system, will be demonstrating at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Room 586. We want you should come for a visit. Seriously. Here's why: 1) You will be among the first to see and hear Soundsmith's newest and most advanced Moving Iron Cartridge. It's quite special for a very unique reason - but you'll have to show up to find out what that reason is. It's called "Hyperion" and it's based on a collaboration with Frank Schroeder. You'll plotz. 2) You will finally get the answer to the question you've been asking for - oh, I don't know - about a year. Cartright. Yes - there will be information about it - and there's a fairly good chance you'll be delighted. Unless you're a Congressperson. Nothing pleases you. Complain, complain, complain. Oy gevult, already. 3) A new anti-skating device for VPI tonearms, called Vivenda. It's utterly repulsive - and gets even more repulsive as the record plays on. Come find out why that's a good thing. 4) A new tonearm-wire troubleshooting/burn-in device named "The Sprout" - trust me, you'll like. As well, we'll have the new VPI Classic III and the VPI HRX spinning records for us, AND (you lucky so-and-so's) some B-Stock cartridges that attendees can pick-up (that was a pun, for you digital guys who don't get analog references) for a sweet deal of a price. NEWS RELEASE 9/2011 Audio Power Labs, a company born of a desire to create products that provide the ultimate listening experience for music lovers and audiophiles is proud to announce the 833TNT™ monoblock amplifier. The 833TNT™ combines the best of old and new audio technologies to deliver amplified sound with breathtaking clarity, warmth and faithfulness. The ability of tubes to amplify audio without the harshness often associated with solid state technology is well known. The drawback with most vacuum tubes, however, is their tendency to add distortion to the signal as volume is increased and their need for large power supplies to provide the level of voltage and current needed for their operation. With the 833TNT™, our audio and electronic engineers have overcome these challenges. Using the newest switched-mode technology, they developed a power supply system of manageable size that enables our unit to be self-contained and to sustain continuous low frequency tones without distorting the audio far longer than most other tube based power amplifiers. In addition, the audio signal path is devoid of any capacitors or solid state devices, using tubes and coupling transformers exclusively. As a consequence, distortion is kept to less than one percent across the unit's entire two hundred watt power range. Innovative technology also includes a microprocessor with color LCD user interface that performs periodic auto biasing of all the tubes in the amplifier, as well as providing automated startup and shutdown sequencing of the power supply subsystems. NEWS RELEASE 9/2011 Denon Electronics, a premier manufacturer of high-quality home entertainment components celebrating 100 years of innovation and technology leadership, today announced the debut of its breakthrough DNP-720AE Network Audio Player (SRP: $499.99), a standalone music streaming component designed to meet the needs of everyone who wants to enjoy the full benefits of today's connected "digital universe." In addition to significantly enhancing the audio quality of music, AirPlay® allows users to stream from their iTunes music libraries on Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, though their Wi-Fi networks.* In addition, many mobile device users will appreciate that the unit is DLNA-certified. Adding even more user flexibility and source access, users can listen to Internet radio stations as well as popular online music services such as Rhapsody, Napster and Pandora.** Thanks to the USB connector, along with digital and analog outputs, they can enjoy better-sounding music from virtually any source, and smoothly integrate the DNP-720AE with systems that include both new and older components. Most importantly, the DNP-720AE features full digital processing, which allows for a pure signal transfer and optimum audio performance from all sources. Additionally, thanks to its Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), the DNP-720AE allows for easy and secure establishment of a wireless home network, and a 3-line OLED display makes it easy to see exactly where the music is coming from. To add even more flexibility and convenience, by utilizing the Denon Remote App***, DNP-720AE users can access and control music via their iPhone and iPod touch. Noted Jeff Talmadge, Director, Product Development & Systems Integration, Denon Electronics: "Today's home entertainment universe is about being able to connect with your favorite content quickly and easily – wherever and whenever you want. For Denon, this also means bringing our customers the kind of high-quality music reproduction that is our brand signature. The DNP-720AE delivers on this promise in a sophisticated and straightforward manner. It's a brand new type of component that is in essence a CD player for the 21st century, allowing all music lovers to stream music throughout the home and enjoy it with much less effort than ever before – all with the best sound quality possible. The DNP-720AE is a true game-changer, a product capable of integrating smoothly with existing systems and transforming home entertainment into something new and exciting." NEWS RELEASE 9/2011 Aaudio Imports, a leading supplier of world class high-end audio products, introduces into the U.S. market Monos Cables, a new series of advanced audio cables made by Balanced Music Concept (B.M.C.) Audio of Germany with ultra-pure Mono-Crystalline Silver Wire. The cables include Single-Ended RCA Interconnects, Balanced XLR Interconnects, and various RCA and XLR Phono Cables. The new Monos Cables are the result of a unique trifecta of material, purity and production process to create wires whose performance, accuracy and naturalness are second to none. The cables are made using mono-crystalline silver wire, developed by the Chiba Institute of Technology, the oldest private technical university in Japan. The Institute developed a special casting process that permits exceptionally long extrusions of single-crystal silver wire. Formerly, silver wire was only available in lengths of about 10mm. For practical cable lengths the 10-mm segments had to be patched together. Thus, a one-meter silver-wire cable would be made of about 100 connected sections of 10-mm strands. Silver cables were known, as a result, not only for their airy openness, but for their slightly bright character and sensitive connections. The connection points where the 10-mm segments joined together were susceptible, also, to corrosion and aging, causing gradual sound quality degradation. The much longer extrusion lengths of mono crystalline silver wire eliminates this vulnerability. Cables made by a single piece of wire end the earlier version's internal connection impedance by doing away with the internal connections, resulting in a positive sonic impact. The Monos Cables' enormous transparency combines with perfect balance to help make music breathe. Monos Single Ended Interconnects are unbalanced RCA cables that use one wire for the hot pin and two wires for the ground, with all three made of mono-crystalline silver. The shield is single-side connected, and should be plugged into the receiving unit's input. Monos Balanced Interconnects are XLR cables that use three internal mono-crystalline silver wires for the balanced signal plus ground. The shield is single-side connected to the male XLR plug. Monos' Phono Cables include a balanced PHONO-XLR-Cable that uses two twisted internal mono-crystalline silver wires for the signal transport. The tonearm ground is wired by another internal mono-crystalline silver wire. The shield is single-side connected at pin 1 of the XLR connector. Monos Single-Ended and Balanced Interconnects are available in 1-meter pairs with additional half-meter lengths. The Phono Cables are available in 1.2-meter RCA or XLR pairs with 5-Pin DIN straight or right-angle tonearm connectors. All are available now from authorized Aaudio Imports dealers. About B.M.C. Audio B.M.C. Audio, based in Germany, is a developer and manufacturer of innovative audiophile components that combine a radically different approach with unconventional technologies, modular designs and affordable prices for music lovers with the highest expectations. NEWS RELEASE 9/2011 Pass Laboratories, Inc., an audio innovator renowned for its unique high-performance products, proudly introduces the XP-30 Preamp, the finest sounding, highest performing preamplifier the company has ever produced, and a a new flagship to its line. Using a unique triple-chassis structure, the XP-30 delivers leading-edge audio that brings listeners closer to the emotional power of live performance, recalling the joy of discovery they experienced listening to great music, whether onstage or in earlier recordings. The XP-30 joins Pass Labs' XP-10, XP-15, XP-20 and XP-25 in its acclaimed XP series of preamps and phono preamps. In measurable performance, the XP-30 exceeds its predecessors in generating lower noise levels, better crosstalk specifications, and greater dynamic range, producing music exhibiting more resolution, more dynamics, and a better sense of space and dimensionality. It delivers the ultimate sonic experience a two-channel audio system can provide under any and all conditions. The XP-30 is a modular preamplifier consisting of one power supply and control chassis and two additional chassis, each serving one channel. It is typically supplied as a two-channel product although it can be configured to serve anywhere from one to six channels, enabling but not requiring the design of very large or unusual speaker systems. Each channel provides master and slave outputs. A knob on the front of each of the two gain stages sets the slave output to be equal to or less than the master level; all connected gain stages respond to a master level adjustment on the control panel. Both single-ended and balanced outputs have the same gain structure and may be used interchangeably. The control chassis also supports a mono function that allows almost limitless multi-amplifier functionality. A new low-noise volume control covers a range of 100 dB in 1-db increments. POWER PERFECT The external power supply is large enough for a small power amplifier. Its chassis houses a pair of highly efficient, low-noise Plitron transformers. The circuits use dual mono topologies that supply ample current and excellent voltage stability to the gain stages, as well as inherently better noise suppression and filtering. Very low-noise, high-speed parts further enhance its performance. The power supply enhancements allow music to flow through the XP-30 with a dramatically greater sense of ease, spatial development and dynamic contrast than through any other of Pass Labs' preamplifiers. The XP-30 Preamp is available now from authorized Pass Labs dealers at a suggested price of $16,500 (U.S. MSRP). About Pass Labs Founded in 1991 by legendary audio designer Nelson Pass, Pass Laboratories, Inc. markets its unique amplifiers, preamplifiers and speakers throughout the world. The company has been based in Foresthill, California, since its beginning, and is widely regarded as one of the most innovative audio brands in the world. Its critically acclaimed Aleph, X and XA-Series products have won numerous awards, and Founder and CEO Nelson Pass holds numerous audio patents. His achievements include developing the first dynamically biased Class A amplifier circuit, developing a fully cascode audio power amplifier, and developing the Stasis amplifier in 1977. He helped popularize solid-state, single-ended Class A power amplifiers, and developed the very successful Aleph series of products, and the Super-Symmetry™ circuit, which achieves exceptionally low distortion and noise levels. The company is now poised to introduce a new generation of amplifiers and other high-performance audio products. NEWS RELEASE 9/2011 The Peachtree Audio Grand Pre is designed for the music lover that requires exceptional audio playback from computers and streaming audio devices. The harsh digital environment that these sources generate has to be tamed if they are to perform at a reference level. The built in ESS Sabre32 9018 digital-to-analog converter does this by lowering jitter to less than 1 picosecond for measured performance beyond multi-thousand dollar music servers and CD players. Digital inputs include 24/192 asynchronous USB, two coax, two optical, and BNC. The reference-quality preamp routes all of the information from the DAC through a short signal path that uses gain control and discreet Class A output stages. The Bascom King tube buffer circuit uses the musically legendary 12ax7 tubes and is designed to rejuvenate average recordings and compressed music sources like Pandora and Spotify. The Grand Pre can be used in pure solid state or hybrid tube mode. Analog inputs and outputs include single ended RCA and balanced XLR, Home Theater Bypass, high pass output, fixed line out, and a headphone amplifier. NEWS RELEASE 9/211 We would like to announce that starting August 1, 2011 Hudson Audio Imports is taking over the distribution of the British manufacturer Art Audio. We plan to continue with the current product line and also bring in some new products that were previously unavailable here in North America. We are also a service center and will be providing service and upgrades for Art Audio along with our many other lines. For more information please contact Tom Hills at Hudson Audio Imports. NEWS RELEASE 8/2011 GERMAN PHYSIKS UNLIMITED MK II The new Unlimited Mk II loudspeaker is priced in the US at $ 14,998/pair. This is a new lower price point for German Physiks, but there have been no compromises on sound quality. It uses the same carbon fibre cone DDD driver as our Euro 200,000 Gaudi model. The DDD driver is proprietary to German Physiks. It is a wide-band transducer using pistonic, bending wave and modal radiation. In the Unlimited Mk II it covers the range from 200Hz to 24kHz, so there is no crossover in the mid-range, which yields a major improvement in clarity. The DDD driver also has a very low moving mass, so the transient response is excellent. In addition it is phase linear across its operating range, giving very high timbral accuracy. A further advantage of the DDD driver is that it has an omnidirectional radiation characteristic and this enables it to produce well focused stereo images that can be enjoyed from a wide range of positions in the listening room. This contrasts with the small "sweet spot" that many conventional loudspeaker designs produce. The bottom end of the frequency range is handled by a downward firing 8-inch woofer, which located in the base of the cabinet. The Unlimited Mk II is finished in a high quality acoustic vinyl, which provides significant additional damping to a cabinet that is inherently very well damped due to its rigid construction and the extensive use of Hawaphon® damping material. The Unlimited Mk II is available in black, grey, dark brown and white. For more details please see www.german-physiks.com. Germany Physiks loudspeakers are distributed in the US by Laufer Teknik. Visit them at ‑ www.lauferteknik.com. DDD Manufactur was founded in 1992 and is based in Frankfurt in Germany. They manufacture a range of very high quality loudspeakers based around their proprietary DDD driver. This is an omnidirectional, quasi-full range device that uses pistonic, bending wave and modal radiation. NEWS RELEASE 8/2011 Parasound, a highly regarded San Francisco-based manufacturer of high-end audio components, has introduced the Zphono·USB, a compact preamplifier for moving coil and moving magnet (MC/MM) phonograph cartridges and line-level analog sources. For new media applications, Zphono·USB also adds an analog-to-digital (A-D) converter with a USB port to transfer audio from vinyl LPs onto Mac and PC as digital media. Zphono·USB is the newest of the company's Z-Series family of half-rack-width components. First of all, the Parasound Zphono·USB is a high-quality analog phono preamplifier engineered for the optimum in playback quality for vinyl LPs. Like its predecessor, the Zphono analog phono preamplifier, which continues in the line, Zphono·USB uses high quality parts and precision RIAA equalization to achieve extremely low levels of noise and distortion, and accurate frequency response. For the digital realm, the Parasound Zphono·USB also includes an adjustable USB gain control and defeatable RIAA equalization to improve the quality of audio transfers from LPs to digital media. The USB gain control and USB clipping indicator are used to optimize the digital record-output levels for the optimum signal-to-noise ratio with all recording software programs. For those using sophisticated digital music software in their PCs or Macs, the rear-panel RIAA defeat switch allows users to bypass the internal hardware-based RIAA phono equalization in favor of software-based digital equalization. These capabilities are provided only for the rear panel USB digital output. The Parasound Zphono·USB has a stereo input for an MC or MM phonograph cartridge, and two stereo line-level inputs to facilitate digital transfers of analog sources such as a tuner, CD player or tape deck. Rear-panel settings for MM-47 k, MC-47 k or MC-100 cartridges allow the user to select the ideal impedance matching for their phono cartridge. Front panel rumble-filter and mono/stereo switches are also available to refine the quality of phono playback for older LPs and mono LPs. There is a single pair of fixed-level line-level outputs and a headphone output. The Zphono·USB has dual power transformers and analog power supplies to minimize noise and an AC polarity reverse switch to combat hum issues related to power line polarity. The Parasound Zphono·USB is the newest of many Z-Series components, each of which is one rack-space high and only one half rack-space wide. These Z-Series products are popular as stand-alone components and they can be easily rack-mounted using optional inexpensive adaptors. The Parasound Zphono·USB will be available in the first week of September with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $350. About Parasound: Founded in 1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately owned U.S. company that specializes in providing affordable audio and home theater components to the critical listener. Parasound's products are available from quality audio/video retailers, and select custom installation specialists. For more information, visit www.parasound.com or call 415-397-7100. NEWS RELEASE 8/2011 Tmh Audio We are pleased to announce the extraordinary NORMA "2Mhz" electronics are now available in US and North America! These very special designs are "more than a taste of state-of-the-art" and offer leading edge technology and matching "Class A" sonics with world class construction quality. NEWS RELEASE 8/2011 Paradigm proudly announces Monitor Series 7 loudspeakers for music and home theater — a complete redesign of the lineup, technologically and aesthetically. While faithfully preserving the natural acoustic signature of Monitor Series speakers, this generation offers critical sonic refinements through the introduction of Paradigm Reference design and technology in spades. A cleaner, more linear aesthetic rounds out the new package. Paul Wojciechowski, Manager of Product Development says: "The goal for Monitor Series 7 was to further improve acoustic integrity while presenting a more streamlined aesthetic within a (slightly) smaller footprint, particularly on the floor standing speakers and center channels. "7" is a direct response to today's consumers' desire for a good size without sacrificing good sound." In a nutshell says Paul, "We wanted the highest possible performance in the smallest physical envelope while maintaining the important Paradigm affordability difference." For more information on Paradigm, please visit www.paradigm.com. NEWS RELEASE 8/2011 Danish high-end loudspeaker manufacturer Dynaudio has released an all-new Focus loudspeaker series. The first Dynaudio Focus series debuted in 2005, and soon became Dynaudio's most successful model range. Each new second-generation Focus model has been improved in every possible manner over the previous range, with the performance updates including all-new drivers, upgraded crossovers, and an improved cabinet construction. Dynaudio's latest technologies have been incorporated into the new Focus models: Newly developed drivers with improved voice coil and spider assemblies, stronger magnets, and performance-optimized die-cast aluminum basket frames; soft dome tweeters featuring a new and improved precision coating; and fine-tuned phase-optimized first-order crossover designs. Dynaudio tweeter designs require a time-consuming and labor intensive process where the fine fabric diaphragm is shaped into a dome and then is precisely treated with a specially formulated coating. Dynaudio has further optimized this coating process in the new Focus tweeters, which are essentially like a small Dynaudio Esotar² tweeter. With the new Precision Coating, the coating is now applied more evenly and more accurately than previously possible, enabling a perfectly shaped, perfectly coated dome, This yields an even smoother sound and ideal radiation over the tweeter's entire frequency spectrum, which ultimately delivers an even better reproduction of the finest audible details and significantly improved high frequency resolution. The drivers in the new Focus range feature Dynaudio‘s distinctive center magnet system, where the magnet is positioned inside the voice coil, thus allowing a larger and more homogenous magnetic field to be utilized. Dynaudio innovated the use of aluminum wire for the voice coil, in comparison to the more commonly used and heavier copper alternative, thus yielding an extraordinarily large diameter coil that remains extremely light, making it possible to effectively double the coil diameter without increasing its mass. The aluminum coil of the new Focus series has been further improved with a more heat resistant insulation. The voice coil former of the new Focus midrange and bass drivers is made of black Kapton®, an advanced material that is non-magnetic, temperature stable, and very stiff yet extremely lightweight. Black Kapton® yields a much stronger coil former which allows higher power handling and enables the voice coil to consistently perform under ideal conditions, with perfectly controlled driver movement even during extremely dynamic passages or at very high volume levels. These midrange and bass drivers in the new Focus models feature Dynaudio's exclusive MSP (magnesium silicate polymer) cone, a material that combines low mass, high rigidity, and ideal internal damping properties. The characteristically designed membrane is formed in a special manufacturing process, and utilizes a geometrically-optimized shape to further enable smooth sound radiation and an ideal break-up pattern. Combined with more powerful new Ferrite+ magnets and an improved driver suspension featuring a new spider material which enables a more linear cone excursion, the new Focus driver design results in an extremely precise, incredibly fast and completely controlled woofer movement for accurate music reproduction – even at higher volumes. The drivers utilize new, ultra-rigid die cast aluminum baskets for increased rigidity and lower resonance. The cabinet construction of the new Focus cabinets has been improved over the previous range for lower resonance and greater rigidity via internal damping panels, which enables an even better performance of the drivers. The crossovers deliver even better phase linearity, and utilize a new PCB layout and the finest grade components, finely-tuned to match the new drive units. The net result is a powerful yet extremely precise bass response with greater dynamics and increased precision, a more open, more accurate and more transparent midrange, and a high frequency reproduction offering excellent speed, greater resolution and detail, and a smoother sound character. Now shipping, the new Dynaudio Focus series is comprised of the Focus 160 ($2,900/pair) two-way compact monitor, the Focus 260 ($4,900/pair) two-way floor standing loudspeaker, the Focus 340 ($7,500/pair) three-way floor standing loudspeaker, the Focus 380 ($9,500/pair) three-way floor standing loudspeaker, and the Focus 210C ($1,800/each) center channel loudspeaker. Each model is available in a choice or either Walnut, Rosewood, Maple or Black Ash natural wood or Piano Black or Piano White gloss lacquer finish. Further information is available online at: www.dynaudio.com/new_focus/. NEWS RELEASE 8/10/11 Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. announced a program to allow Benchmark DAC1 product owners to upgrade to the high performance DAC1 HDR. Current Benchmark customers can receive up to a $600 trade-up credit towards the purchase of a new DAC1 HDR. "Benchmark is committed to offering the latest and most cutting-edge technology to our customers," said Rory Rall, Sales Manager. "Customers upgrading to the latest DAC1 HDR will benefit with more digital inputs, an analog input, high current op-amps, and remote control." The Trade-Up program is only valid for Benchmark customers in the United States. The program starts on August 10, 2011 and ends on September 30, 2011. For full details, customers can call 1-800-262-4675 or visit: http://www.benchmarkmedia.com/trade-up-program Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. is a privately held manufacturer of precision audio electronics for professional and audiophile applications since 1983. All Benchmark products are manufactured in the U.S.A. NEWS RELEASE 7/25/11 Walker Audio, Inc., one of the world's leading manufacturers of high-end audio products, announces the release of their next generation of elite turntables, the Proscenium Black Diamond III. The new turntable features a modified suspension system that significantly improves the audio quality by adding a separate, isolated air supply that uses lower air pressure in the suspension chambers. New coupling material was also added to isolate the air chambers from the equipment rack. "We actually had no intention of upgrading or changing the Proscenium Black Diamond II turntable," said Lloyd Walker, President and Founder of Walker Audio. "That unit is already considered one of the best in the world and we thought we had achieved the pinnacle of analog playback possibilities. We were wrong. The changes to the air pressure and the new coupling material result in a musical presentation that is truly phenomenal."
The company, known for its dedication to continuous improvement, began experimenting with ways to use lower pressure to extend the life of the air chamber pods. They found this adjustment profoundly improved the audio quality.
The result is the engineering masterpiece known as the Proscenium Black Diamond III, which utilizes the perfect pressure for isolation, rigidity and resonance control. And the changes still achieve their original intention of extending the life of the air chamber pods indefinitely. "When it comes to high fidelity audio, I'm pretty hard to please," said Dennis Pitzer, President of the Philadelphia Area Audiophile Group. "Analog playback is my choice over digital for the ultimate sound and I thought the medium's potential had been fully realized with Walker's previous turntable. To describe the new Proscenium Black Diamond III as evolutionary would be a gross understatement. It is a revolution in audio analog reproduction! Walker Audio has created a game-changing product." The Proscenium Black Diamond III turntable is a state-of-the-art all air-bearing, linear tracking turntable that is hand-built to exacting specifications. Walker Audio has earned more than 80 industry awards for its audio and video components and accessories. For more information, visit: WalkerAudio.com NEWS RELEASE 7/25/11 MIT Cables announced today that Gavin Fish, International Director of Sales at MIT Cables, will be attending the 2011 Hong Kong High End Audio Visual Show in support of Roksan Tradning Company, MIT's local distribution partner. Roksan Trading, distributor of high end audio gear from manufacturers such as Halcro, Audio Physic, Simaudio, Stewart, and Elan, will be demonstrating selected gear from their library of products, all of which will be interfaced with MIT Cables interconnects, power cords, and speaker interfaces. "It will be my pleasure to assist Roksan Trading in their room this year at the show. This is my first year attending the Hong Kong Show and I can't think of a better partner to attend with. Roksan's long history of serving the high end community in Hong Kong and China places them among the most knowledgable and trusted high end companies in the region. While I'm there, I'll be taking advantage of my time to help answer questions about MIT's unique technology for audiophiles who are in attendance, as well as for the press." said Mr. Fish. MIT Cables manufactures and sells the world's most technologically advanced speaker cables, interconnects, video cables, and power conditioners. Founded in 1984 by Bruce Brisson, MIT Cables has grown to one of the most respected names in the high end audio industry. The patented technology found in MIT's products have excellent measured performance because, among other things, they control the efficiency of the cable throughout the entire audio range, allowing the the entire music signal to pass throughout the system with minimal distortion. Founded in 1998, Rocksan Trading Company, a subsidiary of Asia Theatre Enginessring Ltd., focuses on high-end audio distribution in Hong Kong and China. It operates and staffs seven showrooms, four in Hong Kong and three in mainland China, along with over 70 dealers in Hong Kong, China, and Macau. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 Playback Designs Introduces Super High Resolution Computer Listening! Audio enthusiasts who yearn for higher resolution music playback through a computer, look no further. Playback Designs, LLC., introduces three exciting new products, which break new ground in digital playback by playing Super High Resolution (SHR) music files at rates of up to 24/384 kHz PCM and 6.1 MHz DSD over USB. 3 Series Products The Playback Designs Music Playback Digital to Analog Converter 3, also known as MPD-3, and Music Playback System 3, also known as MPS-3, are products that are totally unique in today's market place. The MPS-3 is really two products in one single box: a world class CD transport combined with a discrete dual differential DAC. The MPD-3 is identical to the MPS-3 except it has no transport mechanism. Both products can receive a variety of external digital sources, including computer based music servers - not only a unique and powerful combination, but also versatile in applications. Another unique feature of the 3 Series products is their ability to playback SHR files of up to 24/384kHz PCM and 6.1MHz DSD through USB from either a PC or MAC. This is 32 times the resolution of players able to playback 192kHz high resolution files. Through the use of Playback Designs' newest apodizing upsampling filter for 44.1 and 48kHz sample rates, PCM never sounded better or more analog like. Apodizing filters are special upsampling filters that compensate for some of the ringing effects caused by brickwall filters in the Analog to Digital Converters (A/D) used during recording. Depending on the recordings, apodizing filters can provide audible improvements. This is not a new technology and is used mostly to improve reception signals from the edge of dish antennas (satellite). Since brickwalls in A/D converters are akin to edges on dish antennas the same principle holds for digital audio and similar filters can be used in DACs with noticeable improvements. With more and more enthusiasts taking advantage of computer based music, the 3 Series products might be the perfect solution! USB-X The USB Extender Box (USB-X) is an external device that gives the Playback Designs 5 Series products the ability to playback Super High Resolution (SHR) files of up to 24/384kHz PCM and 6.1MHz DSD through USB from either a PC or MAC. Playback Designs' USB-X technology is deliberately built into a separate chassis to properly isolate the asynchronous clock from the analog circuitry. The USB-X is now included with the purchase of either of the 5 Series products. The Playback Designs 5 Series products remain the ultimate digital playback device. The Playback Designs 5 Series will challenge what you have come to expect as the limitations of digital playback! For more information or to hear one these new ground breaking products, contact Playback Designs or visit them at the California Audio Show, July 15 – 17, 2011 in Room 316 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Burlingame, California. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 Rega has announced the release of two new products in their analog lineup: the RP3 Turntable and a 24V High Performance Motor Upgrade Kit for existing Rega turntables. The highly anticipated RP3 is the next step up from Rega's critically acclaimed RP1, and has been designed and engineered to achieve outstanding performance far beyond the expectations of a product at this price point. By omitting unnecessary gimmicks, Rega was able to concentrate the manufacturing costs on the high quality parts needed to reproduce records accurately. The RP3 is fitted with a brand new, hand-assembled RB303 tonearm, precision main bearing, and a low vibration, low noise 24V motor assembly which is individually hand-tuned to further reduce vibration. RB303 Tonearm – Making the Best Better Designed using the latest 3D CAD/CAM technology, the new RB303 is the culmination of more than 30 years of tonearm design experience. Due to advances in technology, Rega has been able to fine-tune the iconic RB300 tonearm design. A brand new tube with increased rigidity to the bearing housing, arm carrier, and headshell, coupled with intelligent redistribution of mass, ensure this arm will exhibit fewer points of possible resonance. Extreme stability with almost friction-free movement from the high precision bearing assemblies mean more information can be gathered from the vinyl than ever before. Double Brace Technology With the philosophy that "mass absorbs energy—lost energy equals lost music", Rega has pioneered the use of lightweight rigid plinths. Clever use of lightweight particulate core with a highly rigid phenolic resin skin became the foundation of the high performance achieved by the iconic Planar turntable range. The RP3 takes this design philosophy to the next level: a super lightweight plinth combined with a phenolic resin double brace mounted exactly where the increased rigidity is required (between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing) forms a structurally sound "stressed beam" assembly. This rigid plinth design prevents energy absorption and unwanted resonances which will add unnatural distortions to the music. Equally, heavier mass can transfer more unwanted energy such as motor or bearing noise directly into the rotating record. The use of braces instead of the complete skin allows rigidity in key areas while providing weight reduction to the plinth. This directly addresses the issue of mass absorption and unwanted energy transmission. The RP3 will be available in three finishes: Titanium, White, and Cool Grey, and with the optional Elys2 cartridge factory-fitted. The retail price is TBD. The newly available 24V High Performance Motor Upgrade Kit is designed to vastly improve the performance of all Rega turntables that do not already use 24V technology, including the RP1, P1, P2, P2 2000, Planet, Planar 2, Planar 3, P3 2000, and Planar 25. The kit includes the low noise, low vibration 24V motor developed for Rega's range of multi award-winning 24V turntables. For even better performance, the kit is compatible with the Rega TT-PSU external power supply, which incorporates an advanced anti-vibration circuit and offers even greater stability. The TT-PSU also has the added convenience of electronic speed change. At a U.S. retail price of $225, the 24V Motor Upgrade Kit is a simple way to enhance the performance of a Rega turntable. The Sound Organisation, exclusive U.S. distributors for Rega, announced today that the highly anticipated new Brio-R integrated amplifier is now available for shipment. Designed to complement the Rega DAC both aesthetically and sonically, the Brio-R embodies all the necessary ingredients of a high-quality audio component, in a compact and price-friendly package. For the Brio-R, Rega's engineers developed a newly designed output amplifier using a Class A driver stage. Based around a pair of 150w Sanken Darlington output transistors, this combination forms a complementary emitter-follower emulating Class A conditions, with good thermal stability and lower standing currents in the driver stage. Further improvements include the power supplies, phono stage, and remote control. During the Brio-R design process Rega reviewed the circuit and improved the low and high current power supplies, coupling, and bypass capacitors. The phono stage has been improved to reflect the current improvements in the Rega Planar turntables, where the input sensitivity has been increased along with a revision of the sub-100Hz part of the phono frequency response. And by keeping the remote circuit separate from the audio circuit, as well as giving it its own power supply, remote control has been added to the Brio-R without compromising the sonic design of the amplifier. U.S. retail pricing on the Brio-R is $895, available at Rega retailers nationwide. Visit www.soundorg.com for more information. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 Aaudio Imports, a leading supplier of world-class high-end audio products, presents a pair of exceptional power products with unsurpassable performance qualities and build characteristics. The Zyklop and Minotaur Power Cords by Stage III Concepts, a world-class innovator in audio cable design, represent definitive statements in advanced, ultra-high performance interface technology. Entirely handmade, the cables can be used with audio and video equipment of all types. They enhance the performance aspects of almost every system, while removing artifacts and noise that subtly mask musical nuances. The Zyklop, for example, makes treble and midrange signals smoother and better defined, and increases bass depth, articulation, video contrast and sharpness. Based in Pasadena, California, Stage III Concepts was established by Luis De La Fuente in 1996. From the start, Stage III has been an innovator in the design of world-class audio cables and the first company to offer a variety of advanced technologies in their design and fabrication. Aaudio Imports is Stage III's North America and Global distributor.
The A.S.P. Reference Zyklop
Zero Distortion Audio Power Cord The IEC and mains plugs use pure copper and silver electrical contacts with a massive conductor array delivering extremely low resistance, making it especially well suited for power amplifiers, where current demands can fluctuate quickly and drastically. The cords employ 8 palladium/silver AeroStrand Ultra™ conductors for each polarity in a tubular helix geometry, and an air dielectric with FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) Teflon® air-tubes. Stage III's high-efficiency AeroStrand conductors offer lower resistance and better heat dissipation than traditional stranded cords. The Zyklop's radiation-proof shielding uses an exclusive High Density Alloy foil plus nickel-plated copper braid, with individually protected ground, positive and negative conductors. The multi-layer construction includes a silica/ceramic/ferrite mechanical damping and shielding layer. The cords use exclusive Hyperion Ceramic plugs with silver/copper alloy electrical contacts, cryogenically tempered and plated with palladium. Carbon fiber plug housings, also custom-made and polymer-filled, help eliminate external vibrations. Zyklop Zero Distortion Audio Power Cords are available now from Stage III dealers at a suggested price of $6,000 for 1.5 meters with each additional 0.5 meter costing $2,300. Discounts are available on a sliding scale ranging from 6 to 24 percent, depending on amount. The A.S.P. Reference Minotaur Extreme Audio Power Cord Minotaur Audio Power Cords were designed to deliver the superb attributes of the Zyklop Zero Distortion Cord in a more compact, flexible, affordable format. It is better suited for all types of audio and video equipment that have less demanding power requirements, and that benefit from precise, linear and silent current delivery. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 Fine Sounds SpA, owner of Sonus faber, Audio Research Corporation and Wadia Digital, announced today that it has acquired 100% of SUMIKO (Vertical Cubed) the Berkeley, CA based distribution company serving the high-end audio trade. The current owners of SUMIKO, Donald Brody and John Hunter, will take seats on the board of Fine Sounds SpA. SUMIKO will remain the exclusive North America distributor for all its existing lines, which are an extremely complementary mix of prestigious brand names: Sonus faber (loudspeakers), REL (sub-bass systems), Pro-Ject Audio Systems (turntables and electronics), SME (turntables and tonearms), Sumiko Phono Cartridges and Okki Nokki (record cleaning machines). The REL and Wolf Cinema brands are still owned by Messrs. Donald Brody and John Hunter. While REL enters into an agreement to be distributed by Fine Sounds globally, Wolf Cinema will remain independent. Fine Sounds fully supports SUMIKO's commitment to its customers and will continue to operate to their benefit, providing increased training and marketing support to the entire portfolio of brands. Mauro Grange, the new SUMIKO President remarked, "Fine Sounds views both the USA and China as top priority markets - direct distribution in China is currently managed through Sonus faber Asia and with the SUMIKO acquisition, we now realize direct distribution in North America. Fine Sounds very much appreciates the results that SUMIKO has delivered in the past as Sonus faber's distributor and look forward to working together to maximize the North American market potential. Our goal is to increase connection with, and responsiveness to, our largest markets." Donald Brody and John Hunter said, "We warmly welcome the alliance with Fine Sounds and look forward to the opportunities ahead. As a group we now have much more to offer the high-end specialty dealers who provide the finest in luxury audio to a discriminating clientele." The Minotaur power cables employ 6 AeroStrand Ultra conductors with a palladium/silver alloy for each polarity in a large tubular helix geometry with alternating positive and negative conductors, an air dielectric, and FEP Teflon air tubes. The radiation-proof shielding uses an exclusive High Density Alloy foil plus nickel-plated copper braid, with an individually protected ground. The multi-layer construction includes a silica/ceramic/ferrite mechanical damping layer. The cords use exclusive Hyperion Ceramic plugs with silver/copper alloy electrical contacts, cryogenically tempered and plated with palladium. Carbon fiber plug housings, also custom-made and polymer-filled, help eliminate external vibrations. Minotaur Extreme Audio Power Cords are available now from Stage III dealers at a suggested price of $4,000 for 1.5 meters with each additional 0.5 meter costing $1,100. Discounts are available on a sliding scale ranging from 6 to 24 percent, depending on amount. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 Accepting the challenge to create the ultimate preamplifier would lead Robert Kŏda on an ambitious programme of new concept invention - and finally the release of the Takumi K-10 line stage pre-amplifier. The 27kg copper encased machine reaches a kind of sound quality few had expected to ever find. By unique arrangement of semi-conductors the pre-amplifier provides a total freedom from "power supply sound", superb measured performance and an elegant simplicity that stands firm under the dynamic conditions music signals present. Superlative component selection and matching, hand construction of the highest caliber are but a few of the trademarks of this machine of single purpose - Musical excellence. Robert Kŏda LLC Japan www.robert-koda.com NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 In collaboration with Studio Alkmaar Musical Reality presents KR Audio's first Kronzilla SX-ECO At 16-17 and July 18 this Hybrid Tube Amplifier is to visit but also to listen. What's so special about the new SX-ECO? This amplifier offers the ability to switch between 'solid state' mode or 'Pure Class A "Tube Triode Mode. During the day listening to the radio or i.e. a playlist from the computer does not ask directly for the highest output level and the ‘Solid-State' mode can be used. At night when there is opportunity to seriously listen to music the SX-ECO can be switched to the Class A Triode Tube Mode and you can enjoy the famous top quality sound of KR. Especially in the summer a good tube amp can provide some extra heat in the house. How nice is it that the KR ECO amp stays nice and cold and still performing at a decent level. The SX-ECO than provides a considerable saving in energy and the, already long life of the massive T 1610 triodes. "KR goes Green" we heard in Denver at last year's RMAF, "mmh, interesting ...". During the High End Show in Munich was an enthusiastic response to the arrival of the SX-ECO and the first orders were placed, unheard. During the introduction, the SX-ECO will drive Von Schweikert Audio's VR 4 SR. The EERA Tentation serves as a source connected to Harmonic Technology's Photon Link. Also there are set up several other Virtual Reality Music Systems. For example, the 100w monoblocks Kronzilla DX controling a set of VR 7 mk II and the VR 35 Export Deluxe, spurred by a set of KR VT 8000. In another room, the VA 880 will act in a set with Unifield One and the Kronzilla SDi 35 provides the power of music to the Unifield Two. Studio Alkmaar is located in the ‘Old Town Hall' ,Dorpsstraat 49, 1842 GT, Oterleek. www.studioalkmaar.nl & www.musicalreality.nl NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 CEntrance, Inc. announced today that the world's smallest, 24-bit, 96kHz USB DAC just got more flexible. The new product called DACport LX(tm) follows the legacy of the company's award-winning DACport(tm), a Stereophile Magazine recommended audiophile component. "I wholeheartedly recommend DACport: a great-sounding product at a great price!" wrote John Atkinson in his Stereophile review. The new DACport LX is a fixed-level version of the DACport, featuring a line output and no headphone amplifier. It's perfect for connecting a computer or a music server to a stereo system, easily and without taking up precious space. DACport LX features bit-perfect 24/96 audio and does not require custom drivers. It takes its power from USB and is instantly compatible with MacOS, iOS, Windows and Linux. DACport LX is available now with suggested retail price of $349.95 US. Michael Goodman, Managing Director of CEntrance said: "DACport LX is ideal for those customers who just need an easy way to connect a computer to the stereo system with highest quality. Professional Mastering Engineers already rave about our DAC products and with DACport LX we open up the range of connection possibilities even further, making our compact USB DAC solution even more flexible." CEntrance is a boutique design agency and manufacturer of the recently released DACmini CX(tm) - an audiophile-quality headphone amp and digital audio converter - along with USB converters DACport(tm) MicPort Pro(tm) and AxePort Pro(tm). The company brings over 10-years of professional audio sensibility to the home Hi-Fi environment, creating a new category of 'Pro-Audiophile' products, such as DACport LX. The recently released DACmini CX is a compact 192kHz 24-bit Digital to Analog Converter and Class A Headphone Amplifier. It's a DAC and Headphone Amp with multiple I/O options including: USB, optical, Coax S/PDIF, analog input and output, and a front-mounted 1/4-inch connector for professional headphones. DACmini's stylish form-factor matches the classic Apple "Mac mini" computer footprint, creating a perfect platform for an audiophile-level music server. DACmini CX excels at Professional and Home Audio applications alike. CEntrance is expanding its dealer network in the Pro/MI and AV industry segments. To inquire about becoming a dealer, please call +1 (847) 581-0500 or e-mail us at sales@centrance.com. About CEntrance, Inc. Founded in 2000, CEntrance develops innovative audio entertainment products. CEntrance is known for its co-development work with industry leaders such as Gibson, Benchmark, PS Audio, KORG, and Line 6. Our customer-focused approach blends product strategy, innovation, and operational efficiency. CEntrance is headquartered in Chicago and distributes its products worldwide. Key products include DACmini, MicPort Pro, AxePort Pro, and DACport, which offer portable, professional recording and playback quality, earning enthusiastic endorsements from artists such as Harry Shearer, Nathan East, Frank Serafine and Will Lee, and mastering engineers Bob Katz, Brian Gardner, Michael Romanowski and Mike Wells, among other music industry professionals. NEWS RELEASE 7/15/11 In news sure to please music lovers and audiophiles, two of the audio world's most respected brands are coming together. LYRA is pleased to announce that AudioQuest will assume exclusive distribution of LYRA Transducer phono cartridges and related products in North America beginning August 1, 2011. In moving forward, LYRA wishes to acknowledge the partnership it's enjoyed for many years with its original U.S. and Canadian distributor, IMMEDIA. Under the stewardship of Allen Perkins' IMMEDIA, the LYRA brand has flourished and today is widely acknowledged as one of the premier phono cartridge brands. Since founding Spiral Groove in 2005, Perkins has been drawn into devoting more of his time to design and manufacturing. Due to Spiral Grooves' expanding product line the decision was made to further focus its resources on its own products. In light of this decision, it was only natural for Lyra to turn to its long time partners and friends at AudioQuest for a new beginning. AudioQuest and LYRA (then operating under the "ScanTech" brand) have shared a long and rewarding partnership going back to the introduction of the acclaimed AQ-7000 cartridge in 1987. While AudioQuest ceased distribution of the LYRA-made AQ-7000 Fe5 in 1996, AQ's admiration for the groundbreaking work and delicate craftsmanship of LYRA's Stig Bjorge, Jonathan Carr and Yoshinori Mishima, has continued unabated. Like legions of audio enthusiasts throughout the world, many members of AudioQuest's executive team own and enjoy LYRA's cartridges as their reference standard for vinyl playback, including VP of product development and record producer Joe Harley and AudioQuest's owner/chief designer William E. Low. For further information, contact Joe Harley: JHarley@audioquest.com NEWS RELEASE 7/1/11 Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. has just published test results regarding the performance of an iPad connected to a Benchmark DAC1 converter via USB. According to their findings, the iPad is capable of streaming high-resolution 24-bit digital audio at sample rates up to 96-kHz. No software is required. Apple's low-cost ‘Camera Connection Kit' adaptor provides the USB connection. "This is very exciting because audiophiles can now enjoy using the iPad as a high-resolution music server," says John Siau, VP and Director of Engineering. "Benchmark's driverless AdvancedUSB(TM) system operates as a native USB audio device and is ideally suited for iPad applications. The versatility of the iPad is now coupled with Benchmark's highly respected D/A converters. Benchmark DAC1 converters are used in many of the world's top recording studios and high-end home hi-fi systems" Out of the box, Apple's iPad tablet computer can be used to watch videos, read e-books, surf the web, and listen to music. In addition, there are currently over 90,000 applications available from the iPad store. Many of these applications have audio functions. According to Siau, "The 'Camera Connection Kit' redirects all of the iPad's audio output to the Benchmark DAC1, as soon as it is plugged into the iPad. All iPad applications now have a transparent digital connection to the DAC1's state-of-the-art audio system. This high-resolution digital connection offers a vast improvement over the limitations of the iPad's built-in headphone jack. In combination, the iPad and DAC1 can deliver studio-quality audio with outstanding versatility and usability." "We performed a suite of tests on the system performance using an Audio Precision test station," says Elias Gwinn, Applications Engineer. "What we found is that the DAC1 performs to full specifications when connected to an iPad. In fact, the DAC1's performance is exactly the same when connected to other sources, such as a Mac computer, via USB or optical. Bottom line, the iPad can deliver studio-quality audio, when connected to a DAC1" Benchmark has written a whitepaper outlining their findings. Test results and setup instructions are included in the whitepaper. The whitepaper can be read here: NEWS RELEASE 7/1/11 MIT Cables announced today that Bruce Brisson will join Keith Johnson (Reference Recordings, Spectral Audio), Leslie Ann Jones (Slywalker Sound), Aaron Reiff (Engineer/Consultant), and Bob Hodas (Acoustical Analysis) in presenting a seminar titled The Past, Present and Future of High Resolution Audio at the California Audio Show in Burlingame, CA on July 16th from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and July 17th from 3:00pm to 5:00pm Pacific Time. Kent Loughlin, Vice President of MIT Cables, said, "MIT Cables is proud to be presenting this important discussion for the public with such accomplished panel members. We feel that these audio innovators are among the most experienced and knowledgeable veterans in our industry, and because of their expertise hold a special position in the fields of recording, mastering, and playback of high resolution audio in both the analog and digital formats." To learn more about The Past, Present and Future of High Resolution Audio, please visit http://www.mitcables.com/publications/tradeshows/highrescaaudioshow.html.
California Audio Show NEWS RELEASE 7/1/11 Bluebird Music is delighted to announce it has been appointed exclusive distributor for USA and Canada for the world renowned Jadis SARL of Villedubert, France. Jadis was founded in 1983 with a profound passion for making audio equipment which would faithfully reproduce the emotion of a live performance. Driven by this passion Jadis committed to it's own state-of-the-art research and development program. This led to a very unique design philosophy and the development of the incredible Jadis output transformers. Jadis output transformers are made entirely within the Jadis factory in Villedubert, France. They are hand wound then poured into a special resin which guarantees extremely low noise operation and thermal stability. Jadis output transformers are known to be indestructible in service and give their amplifiers absolute stability regardless of the load. The specifications are extraordinary; in fact the maximum acceptable power is 2500 Watts before saturation! Therefore Jadis amplification is ideal for almost all acoustic speakers regardless of impedance, type of design, or efficiency. Only Jadis delivers this kind of performance. As a result Jadis amplifiers have tremendous dynamics across the entire frequency range with a total lack of coloration. Jadis electronics are no-compromise instruments hand-built one at a time. They feature all point-to-point wiring and the very best components and materials available. Most Jadis amplifiers operate in pure class-A. Jadis offers a broad range of products including: integrated amplifiers, preamps, power amps, phono stages, cd players, cd transports and DACs. Jadis integrateds start at $5,490, preamps start at $6,500 and mono-block amplifiers start at $6,400 per pair. Jadis offers a number of products in the $10,000 - $35,000 range, as well as a few above that too. NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 Red Wine Audio, Audez'e, Inc. and ALO Audio unveil system for headphone connoisseurs. How do you make something great even better? With thousands sold, Audez"e Inc. has become a top pick by headphone enthusiasts. Audez"e"s outstanding sound did not escape Red Wine Audio"s founder… "Since meeting Alex two years ago, I"ve been amazed by his headphones. From first listen I was determined to build an amp optimized for their unique design," says Vinnie Rossi, President of Red Wine Audio. For Rossi that meant upgrading his Isabellina HPA (headphone amp / DAC) to support a new balanced design. But there"s more than technology behind the sound. For the newly announced headphone system, the three companies shared a common goal: Get the most from Audeze"s world-class planar headphones. Prototype opens door to a new partnership "We demoed with Red Wine Audio"s gear at last year"s Rock Mountain Audiofest," says Alex Rosson, Owner of Audez"e, Inc. Adding, "so I knew it was a terrific product." But nothing could have prepared Rosson for Red Wine Audio"s new ‘Audez"e-voiced" prototype… "I was ecstatic at the sound quality of Vinnie"s prototype," says Rosson. Adding, "I was experiencing absolutely amazing sound, and found myself blasting emotionally-charged texts to Vinnie. He must have thought I was crazy!" In coming months Rosson provided input on several iterations of Rossi"s new amp, along with a handful of cable designs. As the relationship matured, Rosson decided to partner and co-brand the entire system. Rounding out the system A chain is only as good as its weakest link. That"s where ALO Audio comes on the scene. "When Vinnie and Alex asked me to participate, I was very excited," says Ken Ball, owner of ALO Audio. Ball adds, "over the past six months I"ve pushed the envelope – experimenting with a variety of cables to create something ideally suited for this combination of products." Offered exclusively as a bundled system Pricing and availability $4,900 for complete system, including headphones, may be ordered directly from Audez"e, Inc. or ALO Audio. Current Audez"e owners may order the system – without headphones – directly from Red Wine Audio for $3,950. Orders being taken now for late-June shipment. About Red Wine Audio Red Wine Audio is the leading manufacturer of a full line of battery-powered stereo hi-fi components, meeting the needs of discriminating audiophiles and avid music lovers since 2005. The company leverages the benefits of high-current, low-impedance battery power so their entire line of components run off-the-grid, resulting in an effortless and emotionally involving musical presentation.
Red Wine Audio • 51 Ozick Drive, Suite 101 • Durham,
CT 06422 • USA About Audez"e, Inc. Audez"e is focused on producing accurate, high-resolution sound. Their current line of headphones are based on planar magnetic technology that have printed circuits on a very thin and flat diaphragm placed in a uniform magnetic field, and use very powerful neodymium magnets on either side of the diaphragm making it a true push-pull design. With thousands of units already sold, their products have been enthusiastically embraced by high-end headphone users. Audez"e Inc. • 848 N Rainbow Blvd, #774 • Las Vegas, NV 89107 • USA Tel: (818) 588-6530 • www.audeze.com.com
About ALO Audio
ALO Audio • 2505 SE 11th Street, Unit 103 •
Portland, OR 97202 • USA NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 No one talks about it much but the best kept secret in audio is that no existing speaker system can keep up with the music signal at the inputs! Even the finest audiophile speakers introduce a shocking 10-times more phase and timing errors than found in the signal driving them. Distortion in the signal represents just a few percent of the total distortion you hear; the rest is actually produced by the speakers and to a lesser extent by the room itself. Errors and distortion from your speakers are actually greater than those produced by the listening room! And naturally, DEQX makes products that eliminate these problems and open up your listening area to a remarkable degree. More about DEQX products in subsequent releases.
NEW: Real-Time Training/Set-Up Support Using our new DEQXpert remote client for secure, online real-time support, our experienced installers ensure best results with nothing more than a high-speed internet connection. Depending on your level of experience this can be a hands-on or hands-off event! We can simply watch your progress and offer advice as you work through measurements, filters and configurations. Or, working together with your participation we can interact with your PC and optimize your system"s performance using your ears. Think of it, years of accumulated skills and hands-on experience tuning DEQX systems are now available right in your listening room! For offline support you can DEQX your project file for comment and suggestions via email. Alternatively we can arrange complete on-site installation services. Support packages may be purchased at any time, but you"ll realize additional benefits if bundled with your DEQX purchase. Rates begin with a 2-hour package for under $200, and there are additional savings for 4 and 8 hour bundles. On-site installations are customized to your specific needs, quotations provided upon request.
New Software Release NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 THIEL Audio (www.thielaudio.com) has announced that five of their newest floor-standing speakers (model SCS4T) and two of their SmartSub® (SS2) subwoofers will be on active demo June 24th and 25th in the AIX Records/Dolby Laboratories—TrueHD suite at Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) New York, 2011. AXPONA is joining CE Week in New York in June with a two-day show focusing on high-performance audio/video hardware and software. The purpose of the event is to introduce new and innovative products to area enthusiasts in an informal and informative setting. THIEL SCS4T: The THIEL SCS4T is a small-footprint two-way loudspeaker with high output capability that satisfies the requirements of today"s home theater systems. Utilizing the award-winning coaxial driver design developed for THIEL"s architectural collection and incorporating the same innovative THIEL technologies that are used in our much more expensive products, the SCS4T provides exceptionally realistic and dynamic sonic performance, regardless of listener or speaker position. The THIEL SCS4T is available in three finishes; Natural Cherry, Dark Cherry, and Black Ash. THIEL SS2 subwoofer: The THIEL SS2 SmartSub® is the most technologically advanced bass system ever developed for seamless sonic integration in home audio and video sound systems. THIEL's SmartSub technology eliminates the major problems and limitations that conventional subwoofers have in matching the system's main speakers and the room. In addition to the THIEL loudspeakers, the five channel demo system will feature Dr. Mark Waldrep's 3D Blu-ray disc, Dolby Laboratories TrueHD lossless audio, an Oppo 3D Blue-ray Player, a JVC Pro 3D Projector, Power Modules (amplifiers) by David Belles, and DH Labs cables. The two-day demo event will be held in the Clinton Room of the Affinia Manhattan Hotel located across from Penn Station at 31st ST and 7th AVE. The show will be open on Friday, June 24th from 9AM to 8PM (9AM to 1PM for registered trade and press only, general public admitted at 1PM) and Saturday, June 25th, from 9AM to 5PM—open to the general public. NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 The awesome UltraLink® UFi™ $149.99/pr UCube™ Compact USB Digital Speakers are now available at Crutchfield! And they"re coming to the Apple Online Store soon! Wherever you hang, your music and movies follow! At just three-inches square UCubes are personal and portable, ideal for home, on your desk or on the go! Available in brilliant fashion-forward colors they look as fabulous as they sound on custom brushed aluminum stands. It"s one look and "I want them!" You"re gonna love their small sleek footprint, iconic design and big dynamic sound; they create a wide stereo image so everyone can enjoy music and video! Just plug the speaker with the USB connector into your computer"s USB port and you"re ready to roll! UCubes... for U!
Inside UCubes
Plug'n'Play
Digital Signal Processing
BMR Driver NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 ZVOX, the company that pioneered the concept of single-cabinet home theater, has announced the introduction of the Z-Base 555 and Z-Base 580, designed to fit elegantly under flat-panel TVs and use only one connecting wire. Both new models deliver revolutionary features and room-filling sound from real wood enclosures at prices that make them the clear choice versus plastic "home theater in a box" products. "To most people, a high-performance surround sound system means lots of speakers, lots of wires and a giant owner's manual," says ZVOX president Tom Hannaher. "But our new Z-Base systems deliver ground-breaking new features and accurate, three-dimensional sound from slim cabinets that seem to disappear under a TV. No external speakers. No external subwoofer. No big manual." The new systems combine a strong, traditional approach to high fidelity speaker design with radically new features, some of which have never before been used in home theater systems. Great Sound: Both new ZVOX systems use five high quality full-range speakers and built-in subwoofers all housed within real wood (MDF) cabinets. New computer-controlled tonal balance delivers ultra-smooth midrange and remarkable bass (as low as 35 Hz). ZVOX's proprietary PhaseCue® II virtual surround system creates room-filling three-dimensional sound—all from one cabinet. Green Design: The new ZVOX systems feature a super-efficient Class-D digital amplifier that uses approximately 1/10th of a watt in standby mode—making it one of the "greenest" audio systems ever made. Ultra-Clear Vocals: ZVOX systems are known for their startling vocal clarity. The Z-Base 555 and 580 add a stunning new feature: Dialog Emphasis (DE). When you push the "DE" button on the remote control you engage a circuit that mimics the functions of a hearing aid. We don"t know of any other speaker system that provides such an easy-to-use and effective method for improving the intelligibility of television dialogue. Output Leveling: If you"ve ever been blasted out of your chair by a too-loud commercial or by a cable channel that"s twice as loud as another channel, you"ll love the new Output Leveling (OL) feature on the ZVOX 555 and 580. Just push the OL button and a sophisticated compression system takes over, making soft sounds louder and loud sounds softer so there are fewer jarring moments while you enjoy TV programming. Controlled Remotes: The new Z-Base systems can be programmed to respond to your TV or cable/satellite remote control. The illuminated display walks you through an ultra-simple programming cycle. Then virtually ANY remote control can control volume, mute, power and input functions of the ZVOX system. Disappearing Display: The 555 and 580 feature a four-digit display located behind the speaker grille that shows the current setting for volume, bass, treble and PhaseCue™ (virtual surround) – and also shows when you have engaged the Mute, Output Leveling (OL) or Dialog Emphasis (DE) features. A few seconds after you stop using your remote (or front panel) controls, the display disappears completely. Multiple Inputs….including front-panel connection for iPod® and other portable devices: The new Z-Base systems each have two analog audio inputs, one optical (Toslink) digital input, one coaxial digital input – plus a front panel 3.5mm analog stereo input for convenient connection of your iPod or other portable audio device. Any specific input can be selected using either the remote control or the slim-line module below the speaker grille. Wood Cabinet with Hand-Lacquered Side Panels: The 555 and 580 feature hand-built cabinets of MDF (medium density fiberboard) with beautiful hand-lacquered high-gloss end panels. Its low-profile design blends perfectly with flat-panel TVs. Most people don"t even notice a Z-Base system...until they hear it. Availability: The ZVOX 555 and 580 systems are shipping now. They are available directly through the manufacturer's web site (www.zvoxaudio.com) as well as through select retailers throughout the country. ZVOX products are available from trusted websites such as amazon.com, crutchfield.com, onecall.com, vanns.com, listenup.com and worldwidestereo.com. Virtual surround sound: The 555 uses ZVOX"s proprietary PhaseCue II virtual surround sound system. PhaseCue II manipulates the phase of the separate channels to "fool the ear" into believing that sound is coming from a variety of sources throughout the room. Live music and well-recorded modern movie soundtracks will deliver rich, three-dimensional sound – pulling the sound out from the speakers and into the room, literally surrounding the listener. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $399.99 ZVOX 580 Specifications Virtual surround sound: The 580 uses ZVOX"s proprietary PhaseCue II virtual surround sound system. PhaseCue II manipulates the phase of the separate channels to "fool the ear" into believing that sound is coming from a variety of sources throughout the room. Live music and well-recorded modern movie soundtracks will deliver rich, three-dimensional sound – pulling the sound out from the speakers and into the room, literally surrounding the listener. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $599.99 About ZVOX Audio ZVOX Audio is a collaboration of long-time industry veterans with years of experience at companies like Best Buy, Advent Corporation, Tweeter, Boston Acoustics and Cambridge SoundWorks. ZVOX Audio is dedicated to designing and manufacturing audio products that combine high sound quality, compact size, simplicity and affordability. www.zvoxaudio.com NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 Bowers & Wilkins" 805s were the favorite "go to" product for a very long time for audiophiles considering a compact two-way speaker in the $2500 - $3500 price range, states Doug Henderson – Vice President Sales & Marketing. "When B&W upgraded the entire 800 series to Diamond status last year, we made Diamond more affordable than ever in the form of the 805D, but also vacated an important price point. Many dealers were quick to tell us that we needed to fill the gap." "Merely "filling a price-point gap" has never been B&W"s raison d"être, however. Our engineers were issued the challenge to develop a new reference standard at the $3,000 mark. I am proud to say not only did they rise to the challenge, but they surpassed all of our expectations by a wide margin! Introducing the Prestige Monitor 1, PM-1 for short." The PM-1 features several new technological innovations that account for unprecedented performance in its price range. At the top of the list is a new Carbon Braced Tweeter high frequency driver, which features an aluminum dome that has been strategically stiffened with a ring made of filament-wound Ultra High Modulus Pitch based carbon fiber. This construction technique pushes the breakup frequency of an aluminum dome up to 40kHz. Of course, these wavelengths are well above the limits of human hearing, but as with the 800 Series Diamond tweeters, the design provides a marked reduction in distortion at audible frequencies below 20kHz, and results in the sweetest sounding non-Diamond tweeter we"ve developed yet. As with the 800 series models, this tweeter is completely outboard the bass/mid enclosure in its own tapered tube housing. Like the 800 Series Diamond tweeter, the drive unit also uses the same new surround material that gives wider dispersion at higher frequencies. This wider dispersion preserves the harmonic structure of instruments and voices and enables the listener to pinpoint the position of the performer with greater accuracy and stability. Another component that has undergone substantial improvement is with the bass/midrange driver. Our Kevlar® cone driver is renowned for its ability to deliver clarity and detail at mid frequencies. New, though, is the Foam Damping Cap (FDC) in the center. Unlike the majority of dust caps, this mushroom-shaped device is a tight fit inside the voice coil former. The stiffness and resistance properties of the foam are adjusted to damp down the tendency of the coil former to go out of round under the influence of cone break-up modes. Damp the motion of the former and you also reduce the cone break-up with a commensurate reduction in sound overhang. This accounts for the desired "slam" without the unwanted bloom of lesser bass drivers. You will be surprised at the bass clarity and impact from such a compact speaker, I assure you. No less attention has been paid to the crossover, which is critical to the overall balance and smooth response of the system. For the PM-1, we have taken a few leaves out of the 800 Series Diamond design book by adopting oxygen-free copper for the conducting path of the terminals and Mundorf M-Cap Supreme Oil capacitors in the minimalist crossover. The addition of oil reduces microphony effects inside the capacitor – the tendency that all components have to convert small mechanical vibrations into low-level electrical signals that can reduce clarity. The cabinet itself is a work of art, with clear echoes of the 800 Series. At B&W we pioneered extreme cabinet bracing with the introduction of the original Matrix™ cabinet back in 1985. We have continuously evolved this design over the years and have developed cabinet designs that reduce mechanical vibration down to infinitesimal levels. The PM-1 is a superbly advanced example, using the latest generation of Matrix interlocking panels, curved cabinetry, and a mineral loaded resin baffle. Tap anywhere on the enclosure to prove to yourself how quiet it is. As you know, an inert enclosure translates directly to low coloration sound. The PM1 offers a compelling blend of new technologies and features that have been adopted from the flagship 800 Series Diamond. The result is an exquisite two-way loudspeaker that is far more than the sum of its many impressive parts. We believe it will set the performance bar at its price tier higher than ever before, and allow listeners in smaller spaces or with budget constraints to experience much of our flagship 800 Series performance in a package that suits their needs. The PM-1 is available in a Mocha Gloss finish with an optional matching stand. Suggested retail is $2,800 per pair. Stands are $550 per pair. Available late June 2011. NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 Aaudio Imports, a leading supplier of world class high-end audio products, introduces into the U.S. market the AMP C1 Stereo Integrated Amplifier, a two-channel power amp with variable amplification and input choices, by Balanced Music Concept (B.M.C.) Audio of Germany. B.M.C."s novel Amp C1 is one of a series of amplifiers the company designed and built from the ground up to deliver music to loudspeakers purely and transparently, avoiding any intrusion of the amplifier itself. The Amp C1 is perfectly balanced from input to output. It runs cool and silently. It exhibits no feedback in the signal path and no compression at any volume level on the theory that it"s better to avoid distortion from the start than try to correct it later. As a result, the amplifier passes music to the loudspeakers naturally and without the presence of the amplifier calling attention to itself. Apparent contradictions disappear, and listeners experience only the unbridled power and finest details of the music. Tranquility unites with dynamics, dissolution with warmth. The Amp C1 delivers two channels of 200 Watts at 8 Ohms, or two channels of 350 Watts at 4 Ohms, supplied by a powerful, fully stabilized network with a 2-kilowatt toroid transformer, balanced-current capacitors, and complete stabilization that contributes to the amplifier"s background of unshakeable silence. Exhibiting the modular construction and massive build quality typical of B.M.C. components, the 88-pound AMP C1 is housed in a sturdy aluminum chassis using the finest components available, and enhanced on the front panel by large Power and Volume buttons, and an easily read Stereo Power Meter. Key features include B.M.C."s exclusive: Digital Intelligent Gain Management (DIGM), a volume and amplification control that recalibrates gain without dividing and downgrading the input signal. DIGM enables the adjustment of left/right output balances in 66 1-decibel increments, avoids unnecessary high gain and additional amplifier stages, eliminates the need for a preamp circuit, and allows a DAC to directly connect to the amplifier. Benefits further include a very short signal path, low noise, and the ability to reduce noise and distortion by reducing the volume. Load Effect Free (LEF) Technology, which achieves high output and high quality audio reproduction unaffected by faults on the transistor side. It provides a top-level signal without voltage amplification, and increases the AMP C1"s efficiency. Current Injection (CI), which further increases the purity of the amplifier"s signal and the immediacy of its musical reproduction by processing the original input current up to its arrival at the loudspeakers. The AMP C1 is operated by a handsome aluminum remote control. Rear-panel connections include 2 pairs of balanced XLR inputs, 3 pairs of unbalanced RCA inputs, 2 pairs of speaker outputs, and an AC power connection. The AMP C1 Stereo Integrated Amplifier is available now from authorized Aaudio Imports dealers at a suggested price of $7,990/pair (U.S. MSRP). About B.M.C. Audio B.M.C. Audio, based in Germany, is a developer and manufacturer of innovative audiophile components that combine a radically different approach with unconventional technologies, modular designs and affordable prices for music lovers with the highest expectations. For further technical information, visit Aaudio Imports" website at www.aaudioimports.com or B.M.C. Audio"s website at www.BMC-audio/de/en. NEWS RELEASE 6/18/11 Widealab Incorporated announced the launch of their Aurender Series Digital Music Storage and Playback Systems with Solid State Drive Playback and iPad user interface. Solid State Drives have numerous advantages over CD mechanisms and hard disk drives which have mechanical parts that wear down and emit noise. More importantly, there are limitations to accurately reading and playing back data from a spinning disk in real time. Solid State Drives have no disks, almost no seek times and vastly lower random access times than hard disk drives and compact disk drives. This ensures absolute accuracy in reading and playback of music files.
Another vital factor in flawless playback is the accuracy of the clocks which
are used as references in reading and playing back music data. Aurender's clocks
are based on ultra-stable TCXO or OCXO oscillators, depending on the model. The
next step up in performance to OCXO oscillators are rubidium oscillators which
are used in atomic clocks. The OCXO oscillators used in the Aurender are of the
finest quality and boast an accuracy under 5 billionth of a second. TCXO and
OCXO based clocks along with proprietary re-clocking using Field Programmable
Gate Arrays guarantee that the signal to the Digital Analog Converter is as
accurate as possible. All models are designed to be used with high quality DACs and have AES/EBU, Coaxial and Optical outputs. The S30 model offers an IIS connection and the R10 model has a digital I/O for master clock (10Mhz). Other features include Linux OS customized for audio applications, uncompressed and lossless formats, up to 24 bit/192 kHz resolution, fanless design and precision machined aluminum case and parts designed to protect sensitive components from electromagnetic noise and vibrations. In addition, the Aurender has LAN and USB connections for transfer of music files from external storage devices or PCs. Expected retail prices are $4,600 for the Aurender A10 and $5,700 for the Aurender S10. For more information on our products, please visit our website at http://www.widealab.com Established in 2010, Widealab a subsidiary of the Work Group (listed Korea Stock Exchange). Based in Seongnam, South Korea, Widealab incorporates the latest technological advances in the development of high end audio products. Widealab products include the just launched Aurender Series Digital Music Systems for archiving, storing and playback of digital collections. All Widealab engineers have vast experience in design, development and manufacture of audio, visual and communications products for the Wonik Group. NEWS RELEASE 5/27/11 Nagano, Japan: Japanese manufacturer Silicon Arts Design and Concert Fidelity, Inc. has been offering uniquely designed, perfectionist audio equipment under two brand names—Silicon Arts Design and Concert Fidelity—for many years. Both lines of products have always been designed and built in Japan by Masataka Tsuda, CEO and Chief Designer of the company. The Concert Fidelity brand was established first, in 1986, with a launch of the SPA-4A phono equalizer. The Silicon Arts Design brand came into existence in 1993 with the introduction of the Indigo 90 monaural power amplifier and the Indigo-One line stage preamplifier. The product lines have evolved since then, and the company's current line-up includes the SPA-4C phono equalizer, the DAC-040 digital-to-analog converter and the CF-080 line stage preamplifier, which are sold under the Concert Fidelity brand, and the ZL-120V2 and ZL-200 monoblock amplifiers, which are sold under the Silicon Arts Design brand. On June 1, 2011, the two brands will be unified under a single brand, Concert Fidelity. "I had reasons in 1993 to launch a new brand, trying to pursue two different design goals. However, it has come to our attention that some of our customers are confused by the existence of the two brands," says Tsuda. "We decided to unify our brands to eliminate confusion and focus our resources on a single, stronger brand." Concert Fidelity's products are distributed by six dealers in the U.S. and seven international distributors world-wide. The name of Silicon Arts survives in a separate line of smaller and less Silicon Arts Design & Concert Fidelity, Inc. Distributed exclusively by Eastwind Import www.eastwindimport.com NEWS RELEASE 5/27/11 Music Abounds at T.H.E. Show Newport 2011 – Home Entertainment Extravaganza T.H.E. Show Newport will bring the excitement of high performance music and home theater to the Hilton Hotel, in Irvine California, June 3-5, 2011, conveniently located across from the John Wayne/Orange County (SNA) Airport. In addition to over 100 listening rooms, where attendees can experience to pure joy of high quality music and video on some of the finest equipment in the world, show goers will also be treated to live music, from local, national, and international artists. Saturday. June 4th and Sunday, June 5th from 1-3 pm will feature the sounds of Dean Peer, internationally recognized for his use of bass harmonics, his album, UCROSS, was hailed by Stereophile Magazine as "an Audiophile Classic"; during the Newport show, Dean will play selections from latest CD, AIRBORNE produced in association with Cardas Audio. The late afternoon program (Sat. & Sun.) goes nostalgic with "Remembering the Righteous Brothers" with Barry Rillera and his 5-piece band. Barry spent 30 years as the lead guitarist, bandleader and tour manager with the famed duo: Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield, The Righteous Brothers. Barry's CD "From Where I Stand" will be available at T.H.E. Show Newport. The evening performances on June 4 and 5 are presented by the BluePort International Jazz Concerts: Friday starting at 6:00 p.m. A Night of "JOBIM & BRAZIL" opening with Mike Garson on Piano with Lori Bell on flute: Legendary pianist Mike Garson , a dazzling and iconoclastic tour de force teams up Friday and Saturday evening alongside the deep, hip chops of flutist Lori Bell—a twosome not to be missed for its gentle and truly intelligent musical grandeur. From Bach to Bowie, east to west, Mike is a multi-faceted entertainer, having appeared with a multitude of "greats" including David Bowie, the Smashing Pumpkins and Alisha Keys. Roni Ben-Hur, based in New York has made his made his mark on the jazz scene with many vibrant albums that reveal his delicate touch and enormous good taste. His new release, "MOVJAVE" is a quartet recording that brings forward his co-leader, Nilson Matta, who is merging as one of the central bassists today with his rock sold time and artistic command as a member of the much-heralded TRIO DA PAZ. Anthony Smith on vibes, and Enzo Todesco on percussion/drums, joins the group with Gary Foster, playing alto sax/flute, is a renowned jazz artist who has played for nearly 200 movie soundtracks; numerous TV scores and has performed "in the studio" with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Natalie Cole, and Barbara Streisand. The evening also features Shunzo Ohno, from Tokyo, trumpeter extraordinaire, he has optimistically overcome personal adversity to reach new exhilarating heights, sharing the stage with Jazz Legend Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shortner, Larry Coryell, David Byrne, Dave Matthews, and more. Saturday starting at 6:00 p.m. Mike Garson and Lori Bell team up again for a different set to open the evening for the feature act, "Gilbert Castellanos' Bolero Romance Sextet." Recognized as a new American master by Downbeat Magazine, Castellanos has established himself as one of nation's most inventive improvisers in stirring live performances with such notables as: Clayton Hamton, Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marasalis, Diana Krall, Michael Buble, and Natalie Cole. The Trumpet Master Castellanos, leads a sextet dedicated to BOLERO ROMANCE: With Kamau Kenyatta who adds his remarkable cord voice to legendary drummer Carlos Vasquez's inimitable percussion nuances, while vocalist Lorraine Castellanos embodies the beauty and graceful loveliness of this Latin American tradition. T.H.E. Show is being produced in conjunction with the L.A./Orange County Audio Society, which boasts 750 members. The event will also include a classic car show, in conjunction with Crevier BMW Auto Museum; a Wine-Tasting area courtesy of Southern Wine and Spirits; Cigars courtesy of Vintage Cigars. For information on T.H.E. Show Newport, please visit: www.theshownewport.com NEWS RELEASE 5/27/11 WyWires, cult producer of hand-made high-end audio interfaces, has ramped up presence for the upcoming show, doubling partnerships over T.H.E. Show Las Vegas this past January. Goals for the company at this show are to engage consumers and educate them on using cables as an important step toward improving a system. WyWires also seeks more distributors and dealers on a global basis. "It's been a wild 6 months - a wild year actually since our launch in 2010," says President & Chief Engineer Alex Sventitsky. "We've brought five products to market, added distributors and dealers in Singapore, Norway, Hungary, and the US, and circled the globe with our customer base from Australia to China. Key to our success so far has been the involvement of our beta group in Spring 2010 in testing and product development. The beta team spent time and eventually money to invest in our future and they continue to be an influential group within WyWires." Sventitsky pays special homage to the mentorship of some key industry movers. "These leaders gave us legitimacy - people like Bob Levi (Positive Feedback, LAOC Audio Society) Richard Beers (T.H.E. Show) Dan Meinwald of E.A.R. USA, Brian Cheney of VMPS, Fritz Heiler of Fritz, and Dan Wright of Modwright. We could not have reached this point in our success,during the first year, with many cable companies coming and going, without this fantastic network. WyWires will be in three suites at T.H.E. Show - 207 (Fritz Loudspeakers main room), 411 (VMPS RIbbon), and 414 (Precision Transducer Engineering.) New phono stage company Zesto Audio will be launching at T.H.E. Show in the Fritz suite. Sventitsky, an unabashed martini-lover whose wife is in the wine business, promises great music and a great time for people visiting 207...especially if attendees drop by around 4 pm on Friday and Saturday afternoons. NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 Channel D, developers of innovative audio software solutions for Apple Macintosh computers—including the award-winning audiophile-quality Pure Vinyl (TM) software, a high resolution vinyl transcription, archiving and editing program—announced a major update to their acclaimed Pure Music (R) high-resolution digital audio playback software. The new Pure Music 1.8, scheduled to be released on June 1, 2011, represents a significant update including two dozen new features and usability enhancements. Three of the new features in Pure Music 1.8 are major-league heavy hitters. The first new feature is the unprecedented ability (for Mac OS audio file player software) to directly play DSD format (dsf / dff) audio files, at a user designated PCM sample rate. DSD to PCM conversion is performed in real-time, during playback. A second new and extremely innovative feature, called "Playthrough," permits conveniently playing other computer audio sources (Internet radio, movies, etc.) through Pure Music, with full access to Pure Music's dithered volume control, 64 bit crossover, audio EQ plug-ins, NetSend streaming, metering, etc. Third, Pure Music 1.8 will include nonmixable native integer stream format support, streamlining and bypassing all internal floating point operations on DACs which support nonmixable audio streams. Also included are overall usability improvements and correcting all known issues involving Gapless playback, including those involving FLAC files. The Pure Music 1.8 update will be free for all users. Other new features include: - Menu options to disable all DSP options, or disable DSP options except upsampling, mono and invert - One-click feature to assist in configuring multiway crossover filters - Option to set the range of the signal level meter (100, 60, 30 dB) - File format or sample rate conversion and adding FLAC tracks now operate on contents of folders - gapless break and monophonic tag options in iTunes to denote preferred gapless album track breaks under low memory conditions or to automatically play tagged tracks in mono - 33% more efficient memory usage with gapless albums - Now observes Repeat One in iTunes for selected track in any playlist - Improved operation of NetSend connect on launch and disconnect options Pure Music simply and automatically docks with Apple's free iTunes digital jukebox software. Pure Music leverages the user's familiarity of iTunes functions such as track selection, playlist management and music library navigation, while handling the audio playback via its own high-resolution 64-bit playback engine. When combined with a quality sound card or DAC, Pure Music delivers dynamic and detailed digital audio playback that has won the attention of audiophiles and praised in audiophile-oriented Internet forums and publications worldwide. The powerful features of Pure Music also include: • Automatic sample rate switching (44.1 to 384 kHz) • Gapless track playback and Memory Play • Dithered Volume Control • Adjustable 4-way Crossover • Native FLAC file playback • CoreAudio Device Hog Mode • Audio processing plug-in support • Optional real-time 64-bit upsampling • Uncompressed audio streaming support up to 192 kHz • Low CPU Footprint Pure Music is designed to accommodate changes in Apple's iTunes as that software continues to evolve. Through a high performance mechanism devised with the assistance of Channel D's 26 continuous years of in-house experience developing Macintosh application and low-level device driver software, Pure Music transparently and continuously monitors user commands to iTunes. This elegant design avoids the risk of needing to reverse engineer iTunes' library and playlist formats, insuring compatibility with future versions of iTunes. As far as the user is concerned, iTunes essentially behaves normally via the Play/Pause, Skip, Shuffle, Volume controls, etc. and even via remote operation with an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch using Apple's Remote App. However, the connection with iTunes stops there, because music play is handled by Pure Music, rendered and conveyed via Pure Music's 64-bit internal signal path. Pure Music natively plays all iTunes-supported audio formats, including but not limited to Apple Lossless, AIFF, Wave, AAC and MP3, plus iTunes unsupported formats such as FLAC and now DSD. Visitors to www.channel-d.com can download a free, 15-day, unrestricted demo program to try before purchase. System requirements: a Macintosh computer running OSX 10.5 or 10.6 and a high quality sound card, audio interface or DAC. The full program can be purchased on the site for $129. Besides the Pure Music update, Channel D will simultaneously be releasing an update to their Pure Vinyl software product. There will be additional public announcements made at that time. NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 MartinLogan, The Great American Speaker Company, announces it is now shipping Theos; the most affordable hand-built electrostatic speaker with real wood finishes and custom bi-wire capable binding posts. Theos features a passive 8-inch high excursion woofer and an ultra-low turbulence down-firing bass port providing detailed bass down to 43Hz. New hand-rubbed, real wood finishes and flexible set-up options also enhance the Theos appeal. The 9.2-inch wide by 44-inch tall XStat electrostatic transducer (speaker panel) on the Theos required careful mechanical engineering to achieve MartinLogan's distinct 30-degree controlled dispersion pattern. To accomplish this, MartinLogan engineers reduced the gauge thickness of Theos's steel stators, which not only achieves the desired arc, but also drastically increases the visual transparency of the panel. Borrowing from the name of MartinLogan's Chief Audio Technologist, Joe Vojtko, the Theos uses Advanced Vojtko™ Filtering. This proprietary audiophile quality network is hand-built using precision point-to-point wiring, polypropylene capacitors, massive air-core coils, and a custom wound toroidal audio transformer. Theos also features a fully passive woofer in a bass reflex design and custom bi-wire capable binding posts giving audio enthusiasts the highest level of flexibility in amplifier selection and connectivity—from single wired solid state systems to vertical or horizontal bi-amplified tube installations. For ease of install, Theos also features a low-voltage DC power supply that eliminates the need for a traditional, heavy IEC power cord. Theos' state-of-the-art features include: • CLS™ XStat™ electrostatic transducer • Ultra rigid AirFrame™ • Fully passive design • 8-inch aluminum cone woofer in a bass reflex design • Precision built Vojtko™ crossover network boasting advanced ML topology • Custom bi-wire toolless binding posts • Custom ETC™ spikes • Real wood finish options Initial shipments of Theos will be offered in three hand-rubbed real-wood finishes including black ash, dark cherry, and zebrawood. Custom finishes are also available through authorized dealers. US retail price is $4,995 per pair for standard finishes. For more information, please visit www.martinlogan.com/theos. NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 Aaudio Imports, a leading supplier of world class high-end audio products, introduces into the U.S. market the AMP C1 Stereo Integrated Amplifier, a two-channel power amp with variable amplification and input choices, by Balanced Music Concept (B.M.C.) Audio of Germany. B.M.C.'s novel Amp C1 is one of a series of amplifiers the company designed and built from the ground up to deliver music to loudspeakers purely and transparently, avoiding any intrusion of the amplifier itself. The Amp C1 is perfectly balanced from input to output. It runs cool and silently. It exhibits no feedback in the signal path and no compression at any volume level on the theory that it's better to avoid distortion from the start than try to correct it later. As a result, the amplifier passes music to the loudspeakers naturally and without the presence of the amplifier calling attention to itself. Apparent contradictions disappear, and listeners experience only the unbridled power and finest details of the music. Tranquility unites with dynamics, dissolution with warmth. The Amp C1 delivers two channels of 200 Watts at 8 Ohms, or two channels of 350 Watts at 4 Ohms, supplied by a powerful, fully stabilized network with a 2-kilowatt toroid transformer, balanced-current capacitors, and complete stabilization that contributes to the amplifier's background of unshakeable silence. Exhibiting the modular construction and massive build quality typical of B.M.C. components, the 88-pound AMP C1 is housed in a sturdy aluminum chassis using the finest components available, and enhanced on the front panel by large Power and Volume buttons, and an easily read Stereo Power Meter. Key features include B.M.C.'s exclusive: Digital Intelligent Gain Management (DIGM), a volume and amplification control that recalibrates gain without dividing and downgrading the input signal. DIGM enables the adjustment of left/right output balances in 66 1-decibel increments, avoids unnecessary high gain and additional amplifier stages, eliminates the need for a preamp circuit, and allows a DAC to directly connect to the amplifier. Benefits further include a very short signal path, low noise, and the ability to reduce noise and distortion by reducing the volume. Load Effect Free (LEF) Technology, which achieves high output and high quality audio reproduction unaffected by faults on the transistor side. It provides a top-level signal without voltage amplification, and increases the AMP C1's efficiency.
Current Injection (CI), which further increases the
purity of the amplifier's The AMP C1 is operated by a handsome aluminum remote control. Rear-panel connections include 2 pairs of balanced XLR inputs, 3 pairs of unbalanced RCA inputs, 2 pairs of speaker outputs, and an AC power connection. The AMP C1 Stereo Integrated Amplifier is available now from authorized Aaudio Imports dealers at a suggested price of $7,990 (U.S. MSRP). NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 Giant-Killer Cables launch the "Ultra-Power" cable. In response to many customer requests, Giant-Killer Cables have now launched their first speaker cable. The "Ultra-Power" cables use a beefy high-current, low impedance design, in an attempt to remove any stress on the amplification normally caused by driving the cable. The idea is to allow all of the amplifier's power to get through to the speakers, resulting in a full-blooded full-range sound. High purity OFC copper is used to preserve purity and a sweet tonality. The cables are terminated with gold-plated banana plugs (or spades on request) and are available in lengths from one to seven metres. "Ultra-Power" speaker cables benefit from a 21-day trial period and can be ordered direct from the web site at www.giantkillercables.com/speaker.htm NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 Magico LLC, the leader in high-performance loudspeaker design and manufacture, is proud to announce the unveiling of its newest loudspeaker, the Magico Q1: a 2-way stand-mounted monitor housed in a fully-braced, fully-damped, aluminum and copper, hard-anodized enclosure. The Q1 features a complete new set of Magicodesigned drivers including a new 7" Nano-Tec® woofer that has been developed to deliver improved system efficiency and greater power handling. This allows the Q1 to be satisfactorily powered by high quality amplifiers with as few as 50 Watts. Replacing an iconic and revolutionary product is as much an exercise in understanding human emotion as it is in engineering. For any new generation of products, in addition to being compared to its predecessor by actual performance, there is a need to contend with the intense feelings of witnessing the introduction of a loudspeaker so far ahead of its time that it redefines a genre. Today, the Mini II stands within the high-end as a classic, its influence rising far above the resulting industry disquiet. For Magico, it marks the starting point of an even greater pursuit. The Q1 is representative of this pursuit in both the demands it meets from a performance stand point and the technology it employs to achieve that. Tireless driver development has yielded two new drive units allowing for better power handling and an additional 7Hz of bass extension than the venerable Mini II. Continued research into the damping mechanism used in the Q platform has also resulted in addressing the common problem of resonance in the stand mount. Instead of attempting to add mass to the stand and decoupling the speaker, the Q1 is directly coupled and the stand itself is a damping mechanism. As in most products, addressing problems with more precision allows us to carefully consider a broader range of demands. In the Q1, compromises of form factor, mass, power requirements, and versatility were not necessary due to eliminating inefficiencies in common problem solving design principles. The outcome is a compact, convertible stand-mounted/bookshelf loudspeaker with explosive, true full-range performance. It is the 2-way monitor that has never before been built, by our company or any other. NEWS RELEASE 5/17/11 A new UltraLink® personal audio brand called UFi™ launches the first in a new line of products, the $149.99/pr UCube Compact USB Digital Speakers. Wherever you hang, your music and movies follow! At just three-inches square UCubes are personal and portable, ideal for home, on your desk or on the go! Available in brilliant fashion-forward colors they look as fabulous as they sound on custom brushed aluminum stands. It's one look and "I want them!" You're gonna love their small sleek footprint, iconic design and big dynamic sound; they create a wide stereo image so everyone can enjoy music and video! Just plug the speaker with the USB connector into your computer's USB port and you're ready to roll! UCubes... for U!
Inside UCubes
Plug'n'Play
Digital Signal Processing
BMR Driver Features 3.25-inches square • 6-inches high with stands Powered via USB port Digital input via computer USB port Ultra-efficient Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Amplifier Wideband BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) Driver 30W (2 x 15 Watts RMS) Equivalent Power Output Extremely wide listening angles up to 170 degrees Package Includes UCube USB Digital Speakers x 2 Brushed aluminum desktop speaker stands 1 meter (3.28 ft.) USB 2.0 cable 1 meter (3.28 ft.) RCA audio cable
It's Just the Beginning Available soon at fine retail and online stores!
Feel It Move U NEWS RELEASE 5/7/11 Cary Audio Design, North Carolina-based manufacturer of top quality AV equipment, is pleased to introduce a software update for the MS-1 Music Server. The new features give the MS-1 a multitude of control and playback options over the previous MS-1 version. Previous versions of the MS-1 could only be controlled via our free Apple iOS app and played back via its USB output. The new version of the MS-1 software is compatible with many streaming audio devices. We have also added the ability to access the MS-1 library from anywhere you have internet access via iOS, Android, and Windows Phone 7 smartphones and tablets, or even a web browser.
UPnP Compatible
SMB Share for Sonos, Squeezebox, and PC Play back
Subsonic
Multi-Zone Playback
Media Rendering
Web Interface All MS-1's shipping as of May 1, 2011 will be upgraded to the new software version. We have worked extremely hard to absorb the cost of implementing these many features. As such, all new units shipped will remain at the current list price. All MS-1 shipped prior to May 1, 2011 can be updated with the new software update release. The new software update file will be posted on the Cary Audio Design website. MS-1 owners will have the option of downloading the software update from the website at no charge, obtaining the DVD software update disk for a nominal fee, or returning the MS-1 to the factory to have the software update installed for a service fee. About Cary Audio Design A manufacturer of high-end audio and video electronics, Cary Audio Design is known for delivering innovative, no-compromise high-end audio and audio video designs to owners worldwide. The Classic Series is an award-winning product line, receiving accolades from many influential audio enthusiast magazines. Visit www.caryaudio.com for complete product specifications and additional information. NEWS RELEASE 5/7/11 Audio specialist Sennheiser announced that its RS 110 is "Headphone of the Month" for May 2011. "Headphone of the Month" is a monthly promotion designed to encourage music lovers to experience the authentic sound of Sennheiser. During the month of May, customers can purchase a RS 110 headphone from an authorized Sennheiser dealer and receive a free one-year subscription to Sound and Vision Magazine. For more information on the promotion, which ends May 31, visit the Headphone of the Month webpage at http://www.sennheiserusa.com/hotm. The RS 110 is an RF wireless, on-the-ear headphone system. They feature a transparent, well-balanced sound with excellent bass reproduction, making them an ideal choice for both hi-fi and TV use. Compatible with set-top DVD & Blu-Ray players, DVRs, satellite receivers, A/V receivers, laptops, Macs, PCs, MP3 players, and LCD, plasma and standard televisions that feature RCA outputs and/or 1/8-inch and 1/4-inch headphone sockets. To learn more about Sennheiser's headphone of the month program, please visit http://www.sennheiserusa.com/hotm. Additional Sennheiser promotions running through May 31 include: NEWS RELEASE 5/7/11 Dads and Grads specials Customers who purchase the noise-canceling PXC 250-II headphone from an authorized Sennheiser dealer anytime in May are eligible to receive a free one-year subscription to Sound & Vision Magazine. Rebate details are available now at www.sennheiserusa.com/dadsandgrads. freePORT rebate
Customers who purchase any entry-level freePORT
wireless microphone system from an authorized Sennheiser dealer can get $50 cash
back via Sennheiser's mail-in rebate. The rebate extends to each of the three
freePORT systems, which offer wireless solutions for vocals, instruments and
presentations for under $250. Rebate details are available now at
www.sennheiserusa.com/freeportrebate. NEWS RELEASE 5/7/11 The Peachtree Audio DACiT The Peachtree Audio DaciT is our latest D-to-A converter optimized for computer audio and streaming music devices. The DaciT features three digital inputs, USB, Optical, and Coaxial. All three inputs take advantage of the 24/192 ESS Sabre 9022 DAC chip with patented jitter reduction technology. An all metal chassis houses the electronics. A remote control with discreet input selection is included with the DaciT. The DaciT will be available June 2011 from all Peachtree Audio resellers for $449. "The DaciT's USB input is special in three critical ways. It is galvanically isolated, which is really important when dealing with electrical noise generated by a computer's USB output. Galvanic isolation eliminates that noise. Second, the DaciT's USB input accepts data up to 24/96 to handle high-resolution audio downloads. The third critical component is how the ESS Sabre DAC re-clocks incoming digital signals to reduce the high level of jitter that is inherit in streaming audio devices and computers. Our unique re-clocking can make those devices sound like high quality CD players." - Jonathan Derda Director of Training Peachtree Audio About Peachtree Audio Peachtree Audio, a division of Signal Path International, was founded in 2006 and is based out of Bellevue, WA. Peachtree Audio is a manufacturer of electronics designed to enhance the performance of computer audio based devices. NEWS RELEASE 5/7/11 Following the great success of its award winning Cinema 11a processor, Cary Audio Design is proud to present the next step in the future of audio and technology. The Cinema 12 is a full-featured preamplifier processor, sharing many of the same features as its predecessor while increasing the performance and flexibility. The Cinema 12 increases its video connections to include four HDMI v1.4a inputs, supporting most 3D formats, 48-bit Deep Color, audio return channel, Ethernet channel, and CEC power on/off features. It also maintains a full suite of audio connections in all formats, as well as discrete RS-232 and IR command codes for simple operation and a 12VDC trigger to control on/off switching of a power amp or other component. To increase audio performance even beyond that of the Cinema 11a, the Cinema 12 offers the very latest Burr Brown 32 bit/192 kHz surround DAC chipsets for the most impressive surround separation and steering, and the most accurate audio, as befits the 22 year heritage of Cary Audio Design as an audiophile music company. All circuitry in the processor is fully differential-balanced to take advantage of the improved noise reduction and increased processing power. All of the latest HD surround formats are supported, to go along with the newest HDMI switching. The Cinema 12 includes a new full-function, programmable universal remote control with extensive macro capabilities. The Cinema 12 is available with either a black or silver brushed aluminum faceplate.
The new Cary Audio Design Cinema 12 will ship April,
2011. Retail Price: $4,995 About Cary Audio Design A manufacturer of high-end audio and video electronics, Cary Audio Design is known for delivering innovative, no-compromise high-end audio and audio video designs to owners worldwide. The Cinema Series is an award winning product line, receiving accolades from many influential audio and video enthusiast magazines. Visit www.caryaudio.com for complete product specifications and additional information. NEWS RELEASE 4/19/11 UltraPower™ by UltraLink™ is delighted to launch its new website www.ultrapowerproducts.com. UltraPower's attractive, easy-to-navigate site makes it easy to find out which product is right for you: PowerGrid®, PowerSource™, Planet Green™ or Essentials Kits and Accessories™. You can also find out more on the Inside UltraPower page. The new site is intuitive to use and thoroughly cross-linked. You can easily learn more about a series of products or go directly to those you're interested in. The succinct, informative text and fast-loading, engaging graphics guide you quickly to what you need to know. "We're sure everyone who visits our new UltraPower site will find it enjoyable, informative and easy to use," says CEO Allen Sung. "We want our guests to find what they're looking for with minimum trouble and maximum ease. Let us know how it works for you!" Dave Donald, VP Marketing and Sales agrees, "It's a great site for terrific products, we're sure you'll find exactly what you need from our beautifully-engineered power conditioning products." A Quick Perspective PowerGrid components offer a complete line of AC Power Line Conditioners delivering protection, conditioning and filtering for all connected home theater equipment from dangerous and polluted AC that can damage and even destroy valuable components. From the most basic protection to the highest-specified products PowerSource delivers the best value, reliability, and versatility imaginable. Most power supplies for multimedia computer-based system and peripherals draw current in standby mode; save energy, save money, turn power-wasting outlets completely off with the push of a button using Planet Green surge protectors! Essentials Kits and Accessories make setting up A/V multimedia or smaller systems easy! We mix and match them at the factory in various configurations including Planet Green surge protectors, HDMI cables and a screen cleaner for high-value, high quality and long-lasting performance. Visit UltraPower for more information! About Ultralink/XLO Up Group/Ultralink Products Inc., headquartered in Ontario, California, is an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance audio and video cables and UltraPower™ AC power products, Canada's market share leader in the field. In early 2002 Ultralink Products Inc. acquired XLO Electric Co., Inc. a well-known brand of audiophile reference cables and interconnects. Ultralink also introduced the elegant "Engineering Truth" Argentum Acoustics™ line of cables and accessories. Ultralink is a member of PARA, CEDIA and the CEA. For more information on Ultralink/XLO and their product brands call (909) 947-6960 or find them at www.ultralinkproducts.com or learn more about XLO at www.xloelectric.com and Argentum Acoustics at www.argentumacoustics.com. NEWS RELEASE 4/19/11 Audio specialist Sennheiser announced that its CX 880i high-end ear-canal headphone is "Headphone of the Month" for April 2011. "Headphone of the Month" is a monthly promotion designed to encourage music lovers to experience the premium sound of Sennheiser. During the promotion period, customers can purchase a CX 880i headphone from an authorized Sennheiser dealer and receive a $30 rebate offer. For more information on the promotion, visit the Headphone of the Month website at http://www.sennheiserusa.com. The CX 880i is a stylish headphone with lifelike sound and incredible detail designed exclusively for Apple products. The CX 880i's sleek look is rivaled only by its incredible lifelike sound quality and comfortable fit. This ear-canal noise-isolating headset uses a dynamic speaker and a specially tuned transducer that reproduces a transparent, clear, audible image. It comes with a supplied carrying case and ear adapter set. Its in-line smart remote allows you to keep your iPhone/iPod/iPad in your pocket and still control calls, playback volume and playlists. To learn more about Sennheiser's headphone of the month program, please visit http://www.sennheiserusa.com. NEWS RELEASE 4/19/11 AV Options (www.avoptions.com) today launched its website dedicated to helping Naim Audio legacy equipment owners in the USA maintain and extend their investment in Naim Audio "Chrome Bumper"- and "Olive"-era components. Given that Naim Audio has been distributed in the US since the late 1970s, there's a significant customer base that uses these components on a daily basis. Our goal is to provide the best level of quality repair and rebuild services using Naim Audio-sourced parts. In addition, we are the only third party company authorized by the current Naim US distributor, The Sound Organisation (www.naiminc.com/us/), to offer these services to US customers and dealers. Our founding members, Chris West, David L'Heureux and Nick Despotopoulos bring their decades of Naim Audio-specific experience and audio, music and computer industry background to make it happen! Specifically, our Service Manager Chris West has expert credentials that are unmatched in North America: 27 years of continuous Naim work experience. Beginning with four years supervising and developing the Naim UK Test and Service Department, followed by over ten years as Technical and Service manager for US distributor Naim Audio North America, Inc. (NANA). For thirteen years after that, Chris ran the NANA day-to-day operations, including oversight of the in-house warranty repairs and service department. Customer and dealer comments: " ...My NAC 52 is back home in tip top shape – many thanks." – R. Horrowitz, IL
"I can't tell you how happy I am
to once again have Naim service and refurbishing from NEWS RELEASE 4/19/11 HeadRoom Corporation has officially launched it's new manufacturing-division website, www.headroomelectronics.com. Aimed specifically at our manufactured electronics, including headphone amps, DACs, and related accessories, headroomelectronics.com is a an informational resource and dealer portal for electronics retailers and prospective buyers. Travis Waller, CEO of HeadRoom, had this to say: "We are thrilled to launch our new manufactured-products division with the introduction of our website. HeadRoom Electronics gives us the opportunity to expand our customer reach by getting our products into the hands of retail partners who know how to sell high-end audio gear. Audiophiles have been telling us for years that they'd love to experience HeadRoom products in-person at their favorite audio store before they make a purchase decision. The launch of HeadRoom Electronics will make that a reality." HeadRoom Corporation was established in 1992 and pioneered headphone amps and related technology, including portable headphone amps and balanced headphone drive. Today, HeadRoom's Retail Division, www.headphone.com, is one of the most trafficked audio sites on the web and serves as a valuable informational resource for tens of thousands of audio and music lovers. HeadRoom seeks to form long term relationships with quality retailers who are interested in expanding their personal audio line-ups or introducing a whole new category of products that provide phenomenal sound at more affordable prices than traditional audiophile gear. The explosion in personal and mobile audio will attract long-time and new customers alike with HeadRoom's extensive line of audio gear, including portable and home-use headphone amps, digital-to-analog converters, balanced headphone rigs, power supplies, and accessories. A partnership with HeadRoom will introduce audio professionals and enthusiasts to the high-performance and cost-effective world of personal audio. If you're a retailer looking for a high quality and well established brand to complement your store, send an inquiry today or visit headroomelectronics.com NEWS RELEASE 4/19/11 Audion International Ltd, British tube manufacturing company based in France has today appointed Gary Alpern of True Audiophile USA to be its new distributor for North America. This follows resurgence in tube awareness and Audion's needs for better representation. Audion believes that Gary will make a perfect addition to the team and will complement our current resources. Gary joins us at a time of major growth and offering his unique flair, knowledge and understanding of the tube marketplace assumes the role of key coordinating distributor and will be responsible for driving sales of Audion Amplifiers, Preamplifiers, cables and electronics within the US. http://www.trueaudiophile.com 310.998.1908 NEWS RELEASE 4/10/11 Keith Pray, Publisher of Source Interlink Media web sites, is thrilled to announce the April preview launch of InnerFidelity, a new website dedicated to playing well with personal audio. Reviews and topics will include headphones, headphone amplifiers, and portable media players, as well as articles on USB DACs, computer speakers, iPod/iPad docks, network players, streaming players, and portable device and computer applications. Tyll Hertsens (founder and previously CEO of HeadRoom) will lead the charge as Editor-in-Chief to uncover and expose all the great gizmos and gadgets that bring the world of music to your ears. As a sister site to the online properties for Stereophile, Home Theater, Home Theater Design, Ultimate AV, and Shutterbug, InnerFidelity will focus on the world of "Personal Audio" as experienced through the ears of experts and enthusiasts. InnerFidelity Forums are a perfect place for you to ask questions and get advice from our staff and seasoned hobbyists. InnerFidelity will also develop community projects and organize events in the forum areas. InnerFidelity will also cover and participate in various aspects of the headphone hobbyist community and feature: DIY kit reviews; DIY builds; forums for community inspired headphone measurement projects; and attendance at community sponsored events. We look forward to seeing you at http://www.innerfidelity.com and helping you keep in touch with the world of great personal audio. NEWS RELEASE 4/10/11 The T+A MUSIC RECEIVER is the latest model in the company's E-Series product range, and is based on the company's award-winning POWER PLANT and MUSIC PLAYER separate components, both of which have garnered superb reviews around the world, and it certainly constitutes one of the most modern and innovative receivers available on the world market. This all-purpose model combines classic analogue technology with the very latest digital circuitry to form a modern, truly high-quality stereo system. The back panel of the MUSIC RECEIVER displays the machine's vast facilities, including highend analogue inputs and outputs, as well as a jitter-free digital output and five high-quality S/PDIF digital inputs (3 co-ax and 3 optical). LAN and W-LAN sockets facilitate connection to the Streaming Client, while the 2 USB inputs are designed to for an iPod as well as a hard drive or USB storage device. All RCA sockets and loudspeaker terminals are made of pure, nonmagnetic brass with hard gold-plating. T+A has adopted the complete output stages of the POWER PLANT, with their superb and potent sound, with just a slight reduction in output. Even so, more than 160 Watts of power is available per channel into 4 Ohms. This is quite sufficient to drive even large, sophisticated loudspeakers effortlessly and to the highest standards of quality. The MUSIC PLAYER has contributed its outstanding analogue pre-amplifier, digital-to-analog converter and CD transport mechanism (without pushrods). The pre-amplifier provides many useful functions, including balance, tone controls, loudness, flat function and a sub-sonic filter for use with satellite speakers. The MUSIC RECEIVER is fitted with three high-quality analogue inputs (one of them in the form of Tape In / Out), a preamplifier output for connecting active speakers or additional amplifiers, two subwoofer outputs and one line output. To ensure that the advanced 32-bit dualmono digital-to-analog converter can also be used as a DAC with external sources, the MUSIC RECEIVER includes five digital inputs, and the three co-ax inputs can process signals at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. The MUSIC RECEIVER also features a digital output. Two additional features are also included: a high-quality FM tuner and T+A's Streaming Client board. With these facilities the MUSIC RECEIVER is capable of accessing anything and everything which delivers music: VHF radio, Internet radio, UPnP network music servers, USB media storage devices and the iPod and its control system. The MUSIC RECEIVER will retail at $4,200 and is supplied complete with the T+A F 100 system remote control handset. Shipping will begin in April, 2011. "'Built like a tank' and "Pristine audio quality" are no longer mutually exclusive," stated Michael Goodman, Managing Director of CEntrance. "Through our expertise in the professional audio industry, we're bringing reliable design robust performance to world Hi-Fi. We have Mastering engineers endorse products-they use best gear from Pro Audiophile markets create their listening systems. goal is hear exactly what music sounds make recording it can be. sophisticated products do same thing: let consumer possible sound - all at great price-point. DACmini perfect example this philosophy." NEWS RELEASE 4/10/11 Dynaudio North America will premiere the new Confidence C1 Signature at the Salon Son & Image in Montreal, March 31-April 3 2011. Incorporating Dynaudio's renowned Esotar² tweeter, select high-performance woofers, and the finest hand-crafted wood veneer finishes, the new Confidence models have been refined from the loudspeaker specialists at Dynaudio in Denmark. The crossover has been further optimized, the tweeter features an improved precision coating, while the internal wiring has been upgraded. With this upgrade to the Confidence range, the second-generation model designations are now Confidence C1 Signature, C2 Signature, C4 Signature, and Center Signature. The Confidence Signature models are offered two new finishes: either dark-brown Mocca or dark-red Bordeaux finishes. Each begins with a Bird's Eye Maple natural wood veneer, which is stained Mocca or Bordeaux and then finished with a clear Gloss Piano Lacquer. The Mocca and Bordeaux finishes first ennobled Dynaudio's 30-year anniversary model, the Sapphire, and are now exclusive to the Confidence Signature models. The Confidence's distinctive, sound-optimized front baffle is now finished in a smooth black lacquer to perfectly round off the design. The Signature models proudly feature an aluminum back-plate adorned with the signature of Dynaudio's founder and sole owner, Wilfried Ehrenholz and feature a 10-year warranty. Dynaudio will also make the new Confidence models available in the company's standard finish offerings, designating such as the Confidence C1 II, C2 II, C4 II, and Center II, respectively. The Confidence II models will feature a 5-year warranty. The Confidence Signature project was inspired by Dynaudio's founder, Wilfried Ehrenholz. Alongside some legendary Dynaudio classics of the past, the Confidence remains his favorite Dynaudio loudspeaker series. Listing to his personal Confidence C1 and C2 models, he has always had the ambition of one day making the best even better. Efforts to improve these models were quite difficult, as every part of the Confidence, from the shape of its soundoptimized baffle to the premium drive units and the innovative DDC technology, already makes each model a finely balanced, inherently consistent loudspeaker. A new, higher level of fine-tuning and the experience gained from the development of the Dynaudio Sapphire and Consequence Ultimate Edition loudspeakers have helped yield the refinements implemented into the Confidence Signature edition. Every Confidence model incorporates Dynaudio's finest tweeter, the preeminent Esotar² tweeter with neodymium magnet. In its newest version, the 28 mm fabric dome is further optimized via Dynaudio's precision coating, improving the exceptionally smooth response and the authentic reproduction of all fine musical details. All bass drivers feature ultra-light, thermally stable aluminum coils wound on special lightweight, stiff yet extraordinarily heat-resistant Kapton formers. The combination of the advanced voice coil construction, the Magnesium Silicate Polymer diaphragms and the ultra-rigid die-cast aluminum frame enables a most precise and dynamic bass performance. The drive units are mounted onto the Confidence's distinctive sound-optimized baffle. The shape has been designed to reduce unwanted reflections at the corners, while the baffle itself is further decoupled from the cabinet with a fiberboard layer between the baffle and cabinet. The tweeters are mounted onto a solid aluminum block, itself embedded into the baffle, in order to achieve the most rigid and anti-resonant foundation. All of these efforts ensure perfect sound radiation as well as a dynamic and powerful sound even at higher volumes. The crossover has been improved and upgraded via implementation of the latest ceramic resistors, air core coils and high-quality capacitors along with new thin film resistors and new internal wiring. The result is an even better, more authentic reproduction of all musical details, especially the delicate sounds from strings, piano and vocals. Dynaudio Directivity Control – DDC Any loudspeaker interacts with the room acoustics and can only perform as well as the room allows. But what about a loudspeaker that is virtually immune to room acoustics? Dynaudio Directivity Control (DDC) enables exactly this. The floor-standing Confidence models render an authentic, three-dimensional sound stage between the two speakers, even in rooms with a long listing distance. DDC consists of a finely-tuned balance of symmetrical dual drive units, optimized drive unit positioning and advanced crossover design, and reduces sound reflections from the floor and ceiling of any room by at least 75%. DDC essentially reduces room-acoustical problems without altering the music signal through room correction electronics, and without the need for visually distracting room acoustic treatments. Each Confidence model is engineered and hand-built by Dynaudio in Denmark. The cabinet is crafted by skilled master carpenters who finish and polish the real wood veneer to perfection by hand, while the innovative front baffle is produced by advanced multi-axial CNC machines to achieve the most precise shape – accurate to a micrometer. All tweeters and bass drivers of every Confidence Signature are created through a balanced mix of elaborate hand craftsmanship and the highest-precision CNC machines, benefiting from Dynaudio's over 30 years of experience in designing and producing the finest loudspeaker drive units. Only by this approach Dynaudio can guarantee its renowned quality in both finish and sound. The Confidence Signature and Confidence II models will begin shipping in June 2011. NEWS RELEASE 4/10/11 MartinLogan, The Great American Speaker Company, announces shipping of the all new ElectroMotion-ESL (EM-ESL). Not a traditional tweeter and woofer-based design, the EM-ESL features the most affordable full-size (34-inces tall) XStat™ electrostatic transducer ever designed. Now available throughout the United States for $1,995 per pair, the EM-ESLs will soon be available at high-performance audio retailers worldwide. Loyalists may remember the Aerius, the first sub-$2K electrostatic speaker launched in 1992 that provided MartinLogan with record sales and more space in the showroom alongside elite speakers manufacturers. Taking the reigns as the newest budget audiophile option, compared to the Aerius, the EM-ESL boasts 40 percent more radiating surface (129 sq. inches) in its re-vamped electrostatic panel and a sensitivity of 91dB into 6 Ohms. A unique XStat™ transducer (speaker panel) was developed for the ElectroMotion ESL to reduce the gauge thickness of the electrostatic panel's steel stators. The reduced gauge does not alter the performance characteristics of the panel, however, as a natural byproduct of tighter build tolerances, it does increase the visual transparency of the panel while still allowing the EM-ESL to be effortlessly powered by both receivers and high-end amplifiers alike. EM-ESL's XStat MicroPerf electrostatic panel is housed within a radical aluminum and composite AirFrame™ similar to those found on MartinLogan's flagship products. AirFrame technology rigidifies the electrostatic panel without obstructing playable surface area or interfering with ambience enriching dipole sound radiation. Proprietary Vojtko™ filtering technology seamlessly blends audio output from the high- and mid-frequency electrostatic panel to the low-frequency woofer. The EM-ESL also features an 8-inch high-excursion, audiophile-grade, doped fiber cone woofer custom designed by MartinLogan's in-house design and engineering team. This woofer optimizes cone suspension and magnetic flux field to produce high levels of bass output with vanishingly low distortion. Rigid and light-weight, the custom woofer's diaphragm eliminates cone flexure and maximizes response time to achieve levels of performance approaching that of MartinLogan's award-winning electrostatic panel design. Priced at $1,995 per pair (US), matching center and surround channels featuring Folded Motion XT technology will debut in spring of 2011. More information on MartinLogan's new EM-ESL speakers can be found on the EM-ESL section of their website. About MartinLogan, Ltd. MartinLogan, one of the most respected names in audio, is located in Lawrence, Kansas. The speaker systems, incorporating MartinLogan's patented CLS (Curvilinear Line Source) high-resolution electrostatic technology and Folded Motion transducers, range in price from $199 to $30,000 (U.S. Retail). The subwoofer systems range in price from $495 to $3,495 (U.S. Retail). NEWS RELEASE 3/20/11 In an effort to promote new business opportunities for PS Audio dealers while bringing value to loyal customers, PS Audio is announcing a trade-up program for those interested in exchanging a P300, P500, P600, P1000 or Premier for credit towards a new PerfectWave Power Plant 5 or 10. The offer is available for orders placed before April 30. In addition to giving customers an incentive to upgrade and creating opportunities for dealers, PS Audio will ensure proper disposal of e-waste from retired units, while refurbishing some for new life. In order to receive the discount on a new P5 or P10, customers must exchange their PS Audio product, which becomes the property of the dealer or distributor. Products must also be exchanged with the same dealer or distributor the product was purchased from. Customers can keep their existing PS Audio gear until the new Perfect Wave P5 or P10 arrives, but the dealer must be notified and an arrangement made before April 30. While the program is being offered globally, below are the trade-in values for the U.S.: Premier Power Plant - $1000 P600 or P1000 - $750 P300 or P500 - $500 Trade-up programs are complicated, especially with PS Audio represented in all 50 states and nearly every country in the world by many dealers and distributors who own their own businesses. Because initial demand will be higher than supply, dealers don't have to take possession of the old PS Audio products during that time period. Customers DO have to place orders in the manner each individual dealer requires before April 30 - which can be anything from a handshake to payment in advance. PS Audio dealers have some autonomy when handling the trade-in program, a requirement to making function globally. "From the beginning we wanted a worldwide trade-up program to coincide with the new Power Plants," said PS Audio CEO Paul McGowan. "While the global nature made it a bit like trying to keep frogs in a wheelbarrow, our team did an amazing job putting the program together in a way that works for everyone." The PerfectWave Power Plant 10 delivers up to 1250 watts of continuous power and 70 amps of instantaneous current delivery; the PerfectWave Power Plant 5 delivers 1000 watts of continuous power and 50 amps of instantaneous current. The highly regulated output of both AC Regenerators produces output impedance 100 times lower than any Power Plant previously released. Available now, the PS Audio PerfectWave Power Plant 10 has a suggested MSRP of $4499.99 domestically, $4999.99 internationally. The PerfectWave Power Plant 5 has a suggested MSRP of $2999.99 domestically, $3499.99 internationally. For more information on the Trade-up program, please email customerservice@psaudio.com or call (720) 406-8946. Visit www.psaudio.com NEWS RELEASE 3/2/11 CEntrance, Inc., a boutique design agency and manufacturer of the popular USB converters, DACport(tm) MicPort(tm) Pro and AxePort(tm) Pro, today announced a refocused company direction with a brand-new product -and product category- for critical listening. With the introduction of the DACmini CX, an audiophile-quality headphone amp and digital audio converter (DAC), CEntrance brings its 11-year history of professional audio sensibility to the home Hi-Fi environment, creating a new category of 'Pro-Audiophile' products. The newly announced DACmini CX(tm) is a compact 192kHz 24-bit USB DAC and Class A Headphone Amplifier. It's a preamp and digital to analog converter with multiple I/O options including: USB, optical, Coax S/PDIF, analog input and output, and a front-mounted 1/4-inch connector for professional headphones. DACmini's stylish form-factor matches the classic Apple "Mac mini" computer footprint, creating a perfect platform for an audiophile-level music server.. DACmini features galvanically-isolated, gold-plated output jacks, a proprietary JitterGuard(tm) jitter elimination system, and plug-and-play driverless USB connection on PC or Mac. The extended range volume control accommodates the widest array of headphones, from IEMs to professional high-impedance models. DACmini is engineered to excel at rugged reliability and is constructed for quiet, interference-free performance. Placed near your computer monitor, DACmini becomes the center of your desktop audio system. Priced at $795, DACmini CX excels at Professional and Home Audio applications alike. CEntrance already offers several professional recording tools. The MicPort Pro, popular with Broadcasters, is a 96k 24-bit USB Mic Preamp. The AxePort Pro, used by world-famous touring musicians, is a 96k 24-bit USB Recording Preamp for guitar and bass. The DACport is a portable USB-powered headphone amp capable of 96k 24-bit audio, designed for critical 'anywhere-listening' from a laptop. These portable products offer professional recording and playback quality, earning enthusiastic endorsements from famous artists such as Harry Shearer, Nathan East, and Will Lee, and mastering engineers Bob Katz, Brian Gardner and Mike Wells, among other music industry professionals. The new DACmini CX is now available and has a suggested retail price of $795 US. NEWS RELEASE 3/2/11 The Studio Electric Monitor represents a break from design themes established in the firms higher-end speakers, but retains the characteristic voicing of other SE products. A 6.5 proprietary broadband driver covers 44Hz to 4kHz with a hand selected silk dome tweeter providing the air. The crossover uses custom inductors and custom capacitors manufactured by Clarity Cap for Studio Electric. The enclosure is MDF with a high-polish black finish, with side panels and retro grill frame made of solid mahogany. The unique grill of the SE monitor is fabricated from stainless steel wire mesh similar to that used on high-end profession microphones. Price for the new Studio Electric Monitor is $2550 pr. NEWS RELEASE 3/2/11 RBH Sound, a manufacturer of high performance home audio and custom installation products, today announced the launch of the company's new website. The new website reflects the company's commitment to its customers and consumers by incorporating many user-requested enhancements and providing a smart and easy-to-understand source of information. The company's speakers and other home audio products are organized by series and by type, enabling visitors to gain the information they need and navigate the new site with ease. With over 30 years experience in providing high performance home audio products to specialty dealers and distributors worldwide, RBH Sound remains one of only a handful of companies in the consumer electronics industry still privately owned by the original founder. Roger B. Hassing, President and CEO of the company, expressed his satisfaction with the new site. "We are very pleased with the results," he said. "As we do with our dealers, we've attentively listened to requests and comments from our website visitors. Many of the improvements found on the new website are the result of these requests. Our marketing and graphics design team has done an outstanding job with the redesign of the site, making sure to provide our visitors with a much better web experience. We're eager to hear what everyone thinks of the new site. Judging from the positive comments we've already received about the new design, I know we've done something right!" RBH Sound is best known for its award-winning, high performance Signature Series freestanding speakers, which are available in 30 unique woodgrain veneer finishes. Among the new site's features is a special page which allows visitors to easily view large on-screen samples of the veneer finishes. However, keep in mind that RBH Sound doesn't guarantee that this will make choosing just one of these beautiful speaker finishes any easier! NEWS RELEASE 3/2/11 Anthem, the leading manufacturer of high-end electronics for music, home theater and distributed audio systems, announces the availability of the MRX 300 receiver with seven channels of amplification, four HDMI inputs and the ability to run Anthem Room Correction (ARC) software along with a new 3D firmware upgrade. It also has HD radio. The youngest of three born after the Anthem MRX 500 and MRX 700 AV receivers, the MRX 300 packs a processing punch with upscaling to 1080p 60hz, composite/component video to HDMI conversion , a dual-processor audio DSP and decoding for all the major audio formats. With inputs galore including four HDMI, seven analog video, five digital audio and seven stereo analog RCA, the MRX 300 is an entry-level AV hub with the heart and innards of a flagship. 3D Firmware Update Not everyone loves a 3D experience at home, but quality receivers need to be equipped for the challenge. A free firmware upgrade released on the Anthem website gives entertainment enthusiasts a reason to expand beyond the second dimension, since all MRX models can now process 3D source material. NEWS RELEASE 2/2/11 This winter we were very fortunate to begin conversations with companies that make truly world-class products. I'm happy to say that in all cases, we came to mutual agreements for distribution in North America and The Signal Collection has three new spectacular companies in its stable. KLIMO We have been looking for some time for record players that would shore up the market space below the Continuum line and deliver fantastic performance in the sub-$30k and sub-$20k areas. As it happens, KLIMO has created two record players that provide exactly what we were seeking. The BEORDE is the entry-level model, TAFELRUNDE is the advanced model. Both tables arrive with 13" arms as part of their package ("Bliant" for the Beorde and "Lancelotto" for the Taflelrunde). Exuding the kind of Italian machine-art elegance that enraptures the imagination, these tables nevertheless represent a technical tour-de-force of engineering skill and machine building expertise. Both models feature magnetically-levitated bearings for the platter and magnetically-sprung isolation for the tonearms. BEORDE: $15,999.00/system TAFLERUNDE: $27,999.00/system ($53,999.00 with four Lancelotto arms) ABSOLUTA Continuing on our tour of expertly crafted, beautiful Italian Hi-Fi we arrive at Absoluta. When I first laid eyes on this company's products, I fell deeply in love. They radiate an inner beauty that can only come from a deep appreciation for art. These stunningly-crafted components wear ornamental chassis hewn from pure hardwoods and hand finished to precision. The unique feature: these chassis are removable by the dealer or user and can be replaced with other types of wood, or custom chassis that a client may desire (Absoluta will consider custom woods and other materials as optional upgrades if the request is within the scope of their ability to provide it). I had approached them with the hope that the electronics sounded as beautiful as they appeared, and I was not disappointed at all. I auditioned the TALIA preamplifier and TERSICORE stereo amplifier in my system and, after a reasonable break-in period, the sound was truly beautiful. Luscious, succulent, voluptuous, and completely immersive. The feeling I got listening to music through the Absoluta electronics was the same as the one I get when listening to live music - the immersion is really that good. All their electronics use top-line parts and circuit boards and are designed and built in Venice, Italy by a team of extremely talented partners. TALIA Preamplifier: $12,999.00 - $14,999.00 (depending on finish, includes phono stage) TERSICORE amp: $9,999.00 - $10,999.00 (depending on finish, stereo amplifier) PARTENOPE integrated amp: $15,499.00 (piano black only, wood TBA, includes phono stage) JANUS monobloc amps/per pair $13,999.00 - $15,999.00 (depending on finish) TRANSMISSION AUDIO In the world of loudspeakers there exist today very few actual innovators, people who invent the technology that they want to use because off-the-shelf versions will not suffice. Among these people there are even fewer who have reached the heights of technical accomplishment that Bo Bengtsson has reached. His work with ribbons is decades old, and his innovations inform not just Hi Fi, but a broad spectrum of loudspeakers that serve various markets and purposes. From ribbon-based linear-array public address systems populating large theaters and music venues to the small-but-powerful QUADRA ribbon tweeter appearing in HiFi loudspeakers and even in luxury car audio systems - Bo's expertise in the technology of ribbon transducers is unchallenged. I was familiar with Bo's work long before I was familiar with Bo, as it turns out. He designed the legendary Red Rose R3 monitor, which I had heard (and was flabbergasted by) back in 2001. This was a major advancement in the state of the art in 2-way monitors, and - in a way - released us from the constricting habit and obligation to compare all 2-way monitors to the LS3/5A. The R3 handily excelled beyond that venerable design, delighting reviewers and customers alike with its unprecedented transparency, soundstaging, and ultimate effortlessness. Flash forward 10 years and we arrive at a point whereby Bo has applied a decade of evolution to all of his designs, and presents a line of loudspeakers that have the capacity to upset the applecart once again. From his entry-level loudspeakers featuring the QUADRA ribbon tweeter to his more advanced designs featuring line-arrays of longer ribbons (between $45,000.00/pair to $2 Million/system), Bo amply demonstrates the superiority of his ribbon-dipole philosophy within moments of pressing "play" .. The aggressively-evolved M1i monitor is the descendant of the R3, building on that foundation and projecting performance into the stratosphere. The M3 Mk.II is the floor-standing version of the monitor, sporting two 6 1/2" FlexFoil™ woofers vs. the M1i's single 5" woofer. Both are the beneficiaries of the QUADRA ribbon with Dynamic Propulsion technology. The QUADRA ribbon has 100% more radiating area than its predecessor, 50% lower distortion (it was already quite low!), greater power handling, a moderate 6 Ohm impedance, and a 90dB sensitivity. Each of the four ribbons in the tweeter is driven by its own rare-earth magnet system - the best neodymium money can buy. The result is a tweeter that can project a 3-D hologram of musical reality into your listening room like none other. Grace, power, ease, air, dynamics, nuance - it is all there. Bo also teamed up with legendary engineer Ted Jordan to create a series of woofers based on Ted's FlexFoil™ technology and Bo's advanced motor systems. The result is a series of woofers that combine authoritative power reaching into the depths of the audio spectrum with blossoming midrange performance that radiates with the warmth and authenticity of life. M1i: $4,499.00 - $4,999.00/pr (depending on finish) M3 MkII: $6,499.00 - $7,299.00/pr (depending on finish) M3 Pro-i: $44,999.00 - $49,999/pr (depending on finish) Megatrend II: $74,999 - $79,999/pr (depending on finish) Megatrend Subwoofer: $36,999.00 - $39,999.00/each (depending on finish) Ultimate Extreme System: $2,000,000.00 Not a bad winter's catch, after all - I'd say we've managed to be honored with three very accomplished brands that bring a tremendous amount of skill and art to the table and manage to raise the bar and challenge the doyens of the industry to step up to a new line in the sand. Just the way we like it! Happy New Year, friends!
Chris Sommovigo NEWS RELEASE 2/2/11 Marantz® America, a world leader of advanced home entertainment solutions, today announced that it is supporting world-renowned German classical and rock violinist David Garrett as sponsor of his 21-city February U.S. Tour. Marantz' tour sponsorship includes an integrated marketing initiative to directly support key retailers across the country, as well as generate exciting music content for Marantz' new website and other social media platforms. For almost 60 years, Marantz, has been renowned for its leading-edge audiophile strengths, unmatched performance and build quality, and in 2010, the company launched its most comprehensive line of high-tech home entertainment products ever. Kevin Zarow, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Marantz America, explained how the company's new direction aligns with the David Garrett sponsorship. Noted Zarow: "In our approach to beautiful yet modern product design, Marantz combines our commitment to creating the best sounding products using the most advanced audio technologies with our deep passion for music – all to deliver an extremely high quality and emotionally connected listening experience. And as a longtime supporter and proponent of both classical and rock music, our sponsorship of David Garrett is a perfect fit. Just as Marantz creates products that position us for leadership in today's new era of digital entertainment, David conveys both the excitement and emotion of classical music while engaging younger audiences with his stunningly modern rock and pop compositions. We are delighted to be working with such an exciting talent in this stage of a career that is sure to set the world on fire!" David Garrett stated: "As a musician, the quality of sound as well as performance is of the utmost importance. My whole life I've been searching for perfection; with Marantz, I am very pleased to be working with a brand that shares this ambition." Energetic Combination of Classical, Rock, Pop, and Rhythm and Blues! Garrett is one of the most exciting crossover stars in the music world today. He made his first public appearance at the Hamburg Philharmonic when he was ten and at 13 became the youngest classical artist ever to sign a contract with a record label. After graduating from New York's prestigious The Juilliard School in 2004, where he was among the first students to study with Itzhak Perlman, he launched a unique career that energetically combines classical elements with those of pop, rock and rhythm and blues. Already hugely popular in Europe, he is fast building a new global audience in support of his "Rock Symphonies" album. He recently performed live on NBC's "The Today Show", and he kicked off his U.S. tour unofficially with a surprise "flash mob" performance at New York's popular Eataly restaurant, where he performed a crowd-pleasing version of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal" with a little help of restaurant employees and onlookers!
About Marantz NEWS RELEASE 2/2/11 Daber Audio is excited to officially introduce the new Daber Audio Transparent 1.8. The Transparent 1.8 is a DSP controlled single driver, 100% hand crafted full range loudspeaker tower intended for 2 channel listening. The DSP unit is intended to be placed directly in the signal path between an amplifier and preamplifier. The DSP comes pre-calibrated, so integration requires the user to simply hook it up and forget about it. The cabinets are handcrafted MDF, and can be custom painted to nearly any color that a customer desires. High quality veneer is also an option for customers. The cabinet itself is a slot ported design and allows useable frequency extension down to 30hz. The DSP gently contours the response curve for an overwhelming frequency response of 30hz-21khz from a single driver. ?Being a single driver design, the speaker is free from any inherent crossover phase distortion issues. The listener is left with a speaker that truly provides a coherent, transparent window to the recording itself.? says Steve Brown of Daber Audio. ?The realism and dynamics are unsettling? Prices start at $3,800 Daber Audio 425 W Springfield Rd Taylorville IL 62568 217-802-6098 NEWS RELEASE 2/2/11 Parasound, the San Francisco based supplier of premium audio amplifiers and components, has redesigned its Model 5250 power amplifier after six years as the flagship of its popular NewClassic family of products. The new Parasound NewClassic Model 5250 v.2 is ideal for home theater enthusiasts who want the performance of a very high-powered amplifier, while pairing it with an affordable state-of-the-art surround receiver that has all the latest technology. The Parasound NewClassic 5250 v.2 offers the same THX Ultra 2 Certified, five-channel, 250-watts per channel power ratings as its predecessor, but with a more graceful front panel design, adjustable gain for each channel making it compatible with the preamp outputs of any AVR, and more than 60 other improvements to its operating features and circuitry. "The NC 5250 v.2 provides a terrific solution for home theater enthusiasts who want great performance but worry about the cost of updating a new top-of-the line surround receiver every few years to keep pace with changing technology," said Richard Schram, Parasound's president and founder. "A high quality and powerful amplifier will never really become obsolete. Rather than spend $2,500 to $5,000 for a high power surround receiver every time technology changes, why not spend $800-$1200 for a lower powered surround receiver which has the same decoding and most of the same useful features, while connecting its preamp outputs to a 5250 v.2 to give the system a significant increase in audio power?" Like its predecessor, the new Model 5250 v.2 delivers exceptional power output and low noise performance capabilities. With discrete power transistors, dual toroid power transformers, and large storage capacitors, the 5250 v.2 can deliver peak currents of 45 amps per channel, and sustain 385 watts per channel into 4-ohm loads. Despite this high-energy operation, the amplifier does not run hot, and is designed for cool running even in relatively confined spaces. Unlike its predecessor, which had fixed gain at the THX reference level, the NewClassic 5250 v.2 allows independent +/- 10 dB gain adjustment for each channel relative to the THX level. This allows home theater systems to reach higher SPLs in very large rooms or when using less sensitive speakers. Plus, it gives custom installers greater control over fine-tuning of the system, especially when connected to an AV receiver. Additionally, the NewClassic 5250 v.2 has a new simplified and more effective audio turn-on trigger that eliminates the need for a separate sensitivity control. Also eliminated is the ground-lift switch, which has been rendered unnecessary by a new internal grounding scheme.
The Parasound NewClassic Model 5250 v.2 is now
shipping to dealers, and has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $2,850.
NEWS RELEASE 2/2/11 Red Wine Audio, manufacturer of battery-powered purist hi-fi products, unveils the Ginevra LFP-V Edition Phonostage. "For years customers have been asking us to develop a phonostage incorporating our award-winning technology and minimalist design philosophy. I'm confident customers will find Ginevra was worth the wait," says Vinnie Rossi, Owner of Red Wine Audio. Unique design features premium battery power, plus a vacuum tube-stage Ginevra is the only high-end phonostage featuring discrete, Class-A FET gain stages, vacuum-tube output stage and LiFePO4 (LFP) battery technology. LFP power boasts numerous sonic and technical advantages over all other power supplies, including non-LFP batteries. Ginevra supports both moving magnet and moving coil designs. Owners of moving coil cartridges can select from a number of load settings. As an added bonus, the unit features user-accessible resistor sockets, facilitating custom loads. This unique feature makes it easy for users to have very precise optimization for any moving coil cartridge. Sound second only to a live performance!
In Ginevra, customers will find a natural and
organic sound signature, the perfect balance of delicacy and dynamics, and a
holographic soundstage that draws the listener deep into the performance. Pricing and availability Availability is immediate but subject to order backlog. $3,000 MSRP. About Red Wine Audio Red Wine Audio is the leading manufacturer of a full line of battery-powered stereo hi-fi components, meeting the needs of discriminating audiophiles and avid music lovers since 2005. Vinnie Rossi, company founder, leverages the benefits of high-current, low-impedance battery power so his entire line of components run off-the-grid, resulting in an effortless and emotionally involving musical presentation. All products are proudly designed and manufactured in the USA.
Red Wine Audio • 51 Ozick Drive, Suite 101 • Durham,
CT 06422 • USA NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 Cary Audio Design, North Carolina-based manufacturer of top quality AV equipment, is pleased to introduce two new power amplifiers. The Model SA-200.2 and SA-500.1 solid-state power amplifiers represent an all new amplifier design. They embody a new modular approach that ensures consistency in performance, and ease of manufacture and serviceability. In implementing the new design, we have dramatically improved performance and current-handling capacity over our previous models while still maintaining the highest levels of sonic quality. Like most Cary products, these amplifiers are designed and built at our facilities in North Carolina. The SA-200.2 is a 200 watt stereo amplifier into 8 ohms, (350 watts into 4 ohms), with balanced and single ended inputs. The SA-500.1 is a 500 watt monoblock amplifier into 8 ohms, (1000 watts into 4 ohms), and also features balanced and single ended inputs. The amplifiers exhibit very high current capability, are stable into low impedance loads, and features 3 dB of dynamic headroom. The amplifiers were designed to be equally at home in a high-performance music system or a home cinema setting.
The new SA-500.1 and SA-200.2 are now shipping. Retail Price: $3,995 SA-200.2, $4,995 SA-500.1 About Cary Audio Design A manufacturer of high-end audio and video electronics, Cary Audio Design is known for delivering innovative, no-compromise high-end audio and audio video designs to owners worldwide. Cary Audio Design's award winning product lines have received accolades from many influential audio enthusiast magazines. Visit www.caryaudio.com for complete product specifications and additional information. NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 Bel Canto Design, Ltd., manufacturers of analog and digital source components and amplifiers, is delighted to unveil the C5i Integrated DAC/Amplifier. Digital inputs include 2 SPDIF 24/192 and 2 TOSLINK inputs at 24/192, a USB 24/96 input, and analog MM Phono and Line Level inputs on RCAs. The C5i DAC Integrated Amplifier powers it all, digital analog, USB and Phono MM in one compact, powerful component. The C5i converts any source into music while giving you an amazingly compact, cool-running, high output, low-power-usage analog and digital media center. The most complete integrated amplifier, Low jitter, low noise and power isolation delivers the startling dynamics in your music. Bel Canto's e.One C5i DAC Integrated Amplifier connects to your computer, CD player, turntable, cable box or game console, and now you've got control of an entire media center in one component. Compare your analog collection to your digital all through one component. Just add a pair of speakers and the listening room is open! The Bel Canto C5i features an outstanding 115dB dynamic range and our proprietary low-noise D-to-A convertors are based on our award-winning DAC circuit design. The C5i Includes five digital inputs including RCA, TOSLINK and one 24/96 USB input. The analog section has one pair of line-level input RCAs and one pair of Phono MM inputs on RCAs. The core 24/192 D-to-A converters are based on our Two-Stage Master Reference Ultra-Clock™ circuitry ensuring that jitter from any source is reduced below the audible threshold. The 24-bit digital volume control is completely transparent and accurate throughout the volume range. The engineering detail that Bel Canto is known for calls for custom 0.1% audio grade resistors, class-A output control circuitry, and low-noise power supply components. The heavy-gauge all-steel chassis design prevents mechanical resonance from compromising the audio signal quality. The stereo amplifier section is based on an elegant switching output stage that eliminates thermal distortion mechanisms caused by changes in operating temperature. The front panel features a single multifunction control knob that selects inputs and volume level for the main outputs and ¼" front-panel headphone jack, providing flexibility and control with a simple user interface, easy to read display and full remote control. MSRP Under $2,000 • Available End of January The Wall Street Journal Raves: "For bookshelf audiophiles who like their separate components down to the individual power supply, Bel Canto's full range of modular matching half-size power amps, CD players, FM tuners and digital-to-analog converters (for your PC music) is a dream come true. Though they're about as small as '80s-era microsystems, these handmade-in-Minneapolis stackables deliver enough sound and power for speakers 10 times their size." Click here for the entire article. Bel Canto Design, Ltd. • Minneapolis • MN • USA www.belcantodesign.com NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 THE LARS TYPE 2 Power Amplifier The LARS TYPE 2 power amplifier is packed with prime technology components, including handmade 300B-XLS tubes, bespoke transformers for the audio dynamics, foil capacitors that minimize the energy loss and unique internal wiring material for optimal sound quality. Every detail and aspect of THE LARS TYPE 2 is designed to produce the purest sound. Lars Engström: "We aimed for the best possible audio listening experience and created a power amplifier with a sound so pure that you never get tired of listening to your music." The wood and glass exterior is made with the same philosophy. Designer, Timo Engström continues a long Scandinavian design tradition. He works with traditional materials to bring form and function in to one. Timo Engström: "We wanted to match the pure sound quality with an equally elegant form. Like a beautiful music instrument, we think of THE LARS TYPE 2 as an instrument for music reproduction." THE LARS TYPE 2 facts: – Power output at 1% THD, 1 kHz: 36W – Amplification: 26dB or 18dB (switch on the back) – Sensitivity: 400mV for full output power – Input impedance: 40kohm – Impedance selector: 4, 8 or 16 ohm – Frequency response +0dB -1dB: 10Hz – 40 kHz – THD (BW 70kHz) 100 Hz to 10 kHz, 32W less than 0,5% – IMD (DIN) 250 Hz / 8 kHz 4:1, 24W: less than 0.3% – Hum and noise: 70dB below full output voltage – Tubes: 2 x 300B-XLS, 2 x 6V6GT, 6188, 2 x GZ34* – Mains power: 115V / 230V selectable, 50Hz – 60Hz, 200W – Dimensions (W x H x D): 300 x 500 x 380mm each – Weight per monoblock: 30 kg About Engström & Engström Engström & Engström, founded in 2009, is a Swedish manufacturer of high-end amplifiers. The audio experts in the specialized magazines have praised THE LARS TYPE 1, the integrated amplifier that was launched in 2009. At the 2011 International CES, Engström & Engström will demonstrate the new 36W power amplifier, THE LARS TYPE 2. NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 Anthem, the leading manufacturer of high-end electronics for music, home theater and distributed audio systems, announces shipping of their MRX 500 and 700 receivers. All MRX series receivers feature seven channels of amplification, four HDMI in/one out and the ability to play music from a flash drive, USB disk drive or the Internet. For optimal sound reproduction from any set-up, MRX receivers are also equipped with the Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system. Impassioned audiophiles who prefer separation between amplifier and preamplifier/processor still have that option with Anthem Reference products, while the new MRX receivers deliver the convenience and value of a single component. Anthem MRX receivers include support for the latest audio formats including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIz, and DTS-HD Master Audio. Internet radio is available on both models while HD Radio is supported by the MRX 700 only. MRX series receivers will also provide pass through for 3D movies and television when paired with a 3DTV and a 3D capable source component, making them a stalwart in 3D-enabled home theaters. Trigger output and second zone functionality along with video configuration memorized by source adds further value to the Anthem receiver line. Technical features of the MRX receivers include: 7 channels of amplification Built in award-winning Anthem Room Correction (ARC) system Internet Radio via built-in Ethernet port on models 500 and up Front and rear USB inputs play music from the hard drive or memory stick 1080p up-conversion with Deep Color support Second 2-channel zone US MSRP pricing for the first two models in the MRX series is as follows: MRX 500 - $1,499, MRX 700 - $1,999. NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 LAMM INDUSTRIES, INC. ML2.2 single-ended power amplifier is a proud successor in a line of the ML2 series (the original ML2 and its replacement, ML2.1) and represents a new generation of single-ended power amplifiers with regulated power supply employing a unique high current low impedance power vacuum tube triodes 6C33C in both output stage and power supply. Implementation of these triodes allowed to create an output transformer with a very low turns ratio and, as a consequence, extended (as compared even to the most advanced modern vacuum tube amplifiers) frequency decade factor, as well as dramatically reduced leakage inductance. Chosen by the Design and Engineering Committee to receive the Innovations Award at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas as the most innovative product of the year in the "specialty audio" category, the ML2 was a first single-ended amplifier on the market capable of reproducing a full range of audio frequencies and recreating the original spectral balance and harmonic structure of the recorded material with almost 100% accuracy. The designer's unique vision and nuanced grasp of audio electronics has created an amplifier capable of capturing the essence of your favorite music like never before. The ML2.2 proudly continues this tradition. Whereas both – the ML2 and the ML2.1 – were completed products perfectly capable of functioning to the full of their potential without upgrades or modifications, it became the designer's drive to expand the limits of this topology and introduce some features of the ML3 Signature into the ML2.1 design. The sonic result is a most seamless fusion of the ML2.1 and ML3 Signature that leaves the listener totally immersed in the music performance as well as pleasantly surprised at the palpable breathing presence of the music material. The ML2.2 is an amplifier that sonically is much closer to the ML3 Signature while pricewise is closer to the ML2.1. The meticulous build quality, high quality of parts and materials along with innovative topology make the ML2.2 a truly prized possession of any music lover. The output stage with its high-current voltage regulator section grows out of that in the ML2.1 and implements certain changes that relate specifically to the use of most recently introduced parts of higher quality. In contrast to the output stage, the input stage has been totally redesigned and is based on that of the ML3 Signature amplifier. This innovative front-end topology was incorporated because of specific characteristics of the output tube. It brought about a dramatic step forward in sound quality while keeping the cost within the price category of the ML2.1. Single-ended tube amplification has the greatest potential of reproducing music with maximum fidelity to live sound. Because of several inherent limitations of the format, most SE tube amplifiers recreate a beautiful midrange but shortchange the low and upper frequencies. The ML2.2 overcomes these limiting factors to reproduce the thrilling sound of live music. The ML2.2 along with the ML3 Signature are the only single-ended tube amplifiers that reproduce the entire spectrum in the audio frequency range. A midrange to die for supports a superbly natural and extended bass along with exquisite upper frequencies. The amplifier's innovative circuitry allows one to hear the original spectral balance and harmonic structure of the recorded material without loosing the smallest of detail and nuance. Another unmatched feature of the ML2.2 is the breathtaking, transparent, three-dimensional soundstage it throws seemingly without boundaries or limitations. The ML2.2 brings you a very natural and engaging sound. Advanced technical solutions are used in the design of the ML2.2. Custom-made output transformer of very high quality and unique front-end and output stages, plus the sophisticated power supply, free the ML2.2 to drive most real-world-load speakers yielding effortlessly dynamic sound. In a nutshell, the ML2.2 features the following upgrades and modifications as compared to the ML2.1: • New power transformer • Input stage totally redesigned and based on that of the ML3 Signature amplifier. • Five filter chokes (compared to two in the ML2.1) • Plate fuse holder located on top of the amplifier's chassis for greater customer convenience • Utilization of a much higher quality pc-board, and parts and materials that have become available in recent years • Introduction of an option to turn the amp on/off remotely Each ML2.2 is handcrafted of the finest materials and top quality parts like military-grade DALE metal-film resistors, PRC wire-wound resistors, CADDOCK power-film resistors, BOURNS multi-turn potentiometers, CORNELL DUBILIER and UNITED CHEMI-CON electrolytic capacitors, ELECTROCUBE and ROEDERSTEIN film capacitors, HAMMOND chokes, gold-plated NEUTRIC connectors, gold-plated binding posts, and military-grade low-noise long-life vacuum tubes. The power and output transformers have no mechanical contact with either the transformer cover or the chassis; they're suspended in a special encapsulant material that almost completely absorbs residual mechanical vibrations. This feature plays a significant role in assuring the unique clarity and micro resolution during sound reproduction. Two multi-turn trimming potentiometers accessible through special openings in the amplifier's chassis, along with two sets of test points, allow the user to adjust and measure the nominal value of plate voltage and plate current of the output tube by using an external voltmeter. In conceiving and executing the overall design of the ML2.2, the goal was to utilize modern technology and processes while recreating a look reminiscent of the long-gone vacuum tube era. The ML2.2 functions on around-the-world AC line voltages (100/120/220/230/240 V). Suggested U.S. retail: $37,190/pair NEWS RELEASE 1/2/11 The ADC16 is Benchmark's new 16-channel A/D converter for recording studios. The ADC16 features an optional card-slot for a computer interface, making it directly compatible with Pro Tools 9 and other native DAWs. The ADC16 also features Benchmark's latest clock technology, UltraLockDDS™, as well as 9-segment dual-range metering with peak-hold. The ADC16 utilizes the same analog and digital topology found in Benchmark's award-winning ADC1 - a 2-channel A/D used by Lurssen Mastering and many other well-known mastering studios throughout the world. "I wanted this multi-channel converter to maintain the high standards that the audio community has come to expect from Benchmark's 2-channel converters," said John Siau, Benchmark's VP and designer of the ADC16. "Not only were we able to maintain that level of performance, but we were also able to reduce the latency by creating a new clocking system that doesn't require asynchronous sample-rate conversion." The ADC16 is the first Benchmark product to utilize their latest clocking technology, UltraLockDDS™. This clock-sync topology is the successor to their popular clock system, UltraLock™. The newer technology utilizes ‘direct digital synthesis' technology, which is used in low-jitter, high-frequency RF data communication. The introduction of the ADC16 coincides with Avid's announcement that their latest Pro Tools software can work with third-party hardware. Since the ADC16 can be equipped with a computer interface (firewire, USB, etc), a Pro Tools user won't need any additional hardware to record into Pro Tools. The ADC16 can also interface directly with all other native DAWs as well (such as Logic, Nuendo, Cubase, etc.) As an additional feature, the ADC16 can operate as a bi-directional computer interface when used with the optional card. This means that the user can assign tracks within the DAW to be sent to the digital outputs on the ADC16 (which include 8 balanced AES, 8 coaxial, and 8 optical). So, for example, eight independent stereo headphone mixes can be made in the DAW and sent from the ADC16's digital outputs to eight DAC1's for independent headphone monitoring. "Our customers have been pleading for a multi-channel Benchmark converter for years. Now those passionate producers and engineers are finally getting their wish," remarks Elias Gwinn, applications engineer at Benchmark. "Benchmark's legacy as a leader in digital audio conversion has been solidified with our DAC1 and ADC1 2-channel converters. Now studios can equip the entire front-end of their setup with Benchmark-quality conversion." Benchmark will ship the first units in January, 2010, for $3995.00 USD. The optional computer interface card will be $500. Benchmark's 5-year warranty will apply to all U.S.-based ADC16 customers (2-year warranty for all others). More information about the ADC16 is available at: http://www.benchmarkmedia.com/ADC16
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