Welcome to the AudioShark Forums.
Results 1 to 36 of 36
  1. #1
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    With another RMAF in the books, the last one at the Marriott Tech Center, the show goes out with a bang. Next year, the show is moving to a much bigger facility and much closer to the airport. The rooms this year were exceptionally good sounding (much better than the small ones at Axpona). Although traffic wasn’t as heavy as in past years, the rooms stole the show.

    Without further ado, here are my best of show:

    MBL 101e Mk2 with MBL Noble Electronics.





    I have never been to a show where I considered it a perfect, 10/10 room, until now. I returned to this room four separate times and could not find fault in anything. Bass was 10/10, top end was 10/10, imaging was 12/10, musicality was 10/10, etc. What did I learn from this room? The new WireWorld Electra (all copper) cables are a much better matching in my opinion than the all silver cables they’ve used in the past and I need to step up my game! Up until now, I felt the MBL’s in my room had surpassed any of the times I heard the 101’s at the show. Not any more. I have some work to do! As I said, this to me, was perfection.

    Magico M3’s with MSB Select II

    A first for this pairing at a show and boy, was it a good one. The musicality in this room was a hot as the room was itself. Those Class A amps from MSB sure do throw off some heat! That aside, this room oozed musicality and natural sound. There was nothing aggressive or forward at all. This was a system you could listen to all day (with a little more AC!). An awesome pairing I hope we see a lot more of. This is the pairing in my store and I know it’s a good one!



    Verity Audio Monsalvat with Verity Audio Electronics



    What’s not to like (other than perhaps the price)? This system was an all out assault on reproducing music. It was engaging, never fatiguing, perfectly balanced. This was one of those systems that you will remember for a very long time - and definitely one that forms a reference in ones mind.

    Gryphon Panthon with Gryphon Antilleon Evo and new Gryphon Zena Preamp



    Three times I went into this room, they were playing R2R. These were Master tapes from a Russian company I believe. The system produced a rich, liquid sound which seemed to extend far beyond the outside of the speakers. It was three dimensional and had such attack and dynamics. This was a complete Gryphon system that would could pack up, take home and live happily ever after.

    Avantgarde Uno Fino XD



    I have long wanted a horn speaker that would work in a smaller room (like 10 x 11). Avantgarde has answered my wishes with the Uno Fino XD. Not requiring a long throw (maybe 4 feet), these speakers with their new porting system sounded excellent and the drivers blended seamlessly. The Phasemation 300b tube amps rounded out the complete picture of what these amazing speakers are capable of.

    Alsyvox with Audio Concepts Electronics



    Where’s the subs I asked? There are no subs the designer responded. For those looking for the perfect electrostatic speaker, this is it. This speaker had no flaws - at all. Relatively efficient, dynamic, completely disappearing and at a level far beyond what I heard with Maggie 30.7’s. Sadly, the price is also far beyond the Maggie 30.7’s at about $87,000/pair.

    Harbeth 40.2 with Vinnie Rossi LIO electronics



    This was one of those rooms you could sit and listen all day and never get fatigued. Vinnie had them dialed in and his new DHT Preamp sounded terrific. You also won’t meet a friendlier bunch than these guys!

    DynAudio Confidence 20’s



    These new standmounts from DynAudio played HUGE! Musically engaging and refreshing to see a soft dome tweeter once again. The fit and finish was superb. Rumored to be pricing around $12-15K depending on finish.


    Honorable Mention:

    VAC with Von Schweikert speakers — This room sounded great, but was hard for me to properly assess. It was always packed! I guess that’s a good sign. The new VAC integrated certainly makes a statement.



    Sonus Faber Aida 2.0 with Audio Research - I went to this room three times and they were always playing crummy music. Like, really bad music. Again, I love this pairing, so very hard to assess the three times I was there. I heard from others who caught the room when it was playing good music, that it sounded great.



    The new little Sonus Faber Speakers (I forget the name).



    Tidal speakers with Bracasti electronics (or Tidal electronics in the other room).



    These sounded awesome with or without the sub!
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  2. #2
    Super Moderator
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    NY
    Posts
    18,726

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Wow! Thank you Mike.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  3. #3
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    SE Michigan
    Posts
    3,766

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Thanks Mike. I am sure any of these systems would make most of us very happy.
    Jim

    D'Agostino Momentum M-400's MxV’s & HD Pre-amp
    Wilson Alexandria X2 Series 2 speakers
    Digital: dCS Vivaldi APEX DAC, Clock & Upsampler
    Analog: SME 20/3 with Esoteric E-03 Phono
    Transparent Opus Speaker Cable & Interconnects & Opus Power Cords
    Power Cords on Digital: Shunyata
    Power Conditioner - Shunyata Everest

  4. #4
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Sacramento
    Posts
    1,122

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Mike,

    Thank you for your comments. It is said "a picture is worth 10,000 words" but when it comes to audio, just pictures leaves a lot to be desired.

    What I noticed about your top few picks is the huge size of the rooms. That is one thing that has turned me off about shows. That and the prices. Equipment and systems not designed for mere mortals. Still, those rooms show what can be done and set a benchmark for others to strive for.

  5. #5
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Dizzie View Post
    Mike,

    Thank you for your comments. It is said "a picture is worth 10,000 words" but when it comes to audio, just pictures leaves a lot to be desired.

    What I noticed about your top few picks is the huge size of the rooms. That is one thing that has turned me off about shows. That and the prices. Equipment and systems not designed for mere mortals. Still, those rooms show what can be done and set a benchmark for others to strive for.
    I don’t consider my top two picks, the MBL room or most certainly the MSB/Magico room large. Quite the contrary. I also mentioned the Avantgarde Uno Fino XD designed for very small rooms and priced excellently.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  6. #6

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Wonderful coverage and thoughtful comments Mike, many thanks for the effort it must take to cover so much ground in the allotted time.

  7. #7
    Member
    Join Date
    Aug 2014
    Location
    Fleming Island, FL
    Posts
    77

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Enjoyed all the pictures and your final reviews. Helped all of us be a part of the experience. Might have to visit the new resort location next year...
    Gryphon Diablo 300 w/DAC, Rockport Mira II, Wolf Audio Alpha 3SX, DSA Phono 2, Origin Live Sovereign MK3, Enterprise MK4, Conqueror MK4, SoundSmith Hyperion, Miyajima Zero

  8. #8

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Mike, many thanks for your great reports. The new little Sonus Faber speaker is the new Electa Amator III. Pity music in the ARC/Aida II room was crummy when you went. Safe travels back.

  9. #9
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jan 2016
    Location
    The Matrix
    Posts
    1,131

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Great reporting Mike and it was a great pleasure meeting you and the other AS members. My only inclusion to your list would be the Aaudio Imports room with the Wilson Benesch speakers and Ypsilon electronics. I had to ask for them to play a different selection of music and it was worth it. Looking forward to the Florida Audio Expo.
    Marty

    Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
    MSB Premier
    Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
    Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
    PS Audio Powerplant 15

  10. #10
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by nc42acc View Post
    Great reporting Mike and it was a great pleasure meeting you and the other AS members. My only inclusion to your list would be the Aaudio Imports room with the Wilson Benesch speakers and Ypsilon electronics. I had to ask for them to play a different selection of music and it was worth it. Looking forward to the Florida Audio Expo.
    Thanks and great meeting with you as well Marty.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  11. #11
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jul 2013
    Location
    Florida
    Posts
    3,837

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Very nice summary Mike. Balanced approach from reasonably priced systems to the ultra expensive.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  12. #12
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    "Clueless" in California
    Posts
    1,318

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I don’t consider my top two picks, the MBL room or most certainly the MSB/Magico room large. Quite the contrary. I also mentioned the Avantgarde Uno Fino XD designed for very small rooms and priced excellently.
    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Mike, thanks for the report, great job. What is the list price for the Uno Fino XD?

  13. #13
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2017
    Location
    Seattle Washington USA
    Posts
    1,168

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Thanks Mike. It's great to have a summary of what sounded right. Many are the standards you would expect. I guess those people know how to make it right.
    First Sound Mark3SI preamp. Audion Black Shadow 845 SET Monoblocks. Mojo Audio Deja Vu Server. Mojo Audio Mystic 3 DAC. Linear Solution Ethernet Switch. Gigafoil with LPS. STST Motus II TT with Vertere SG1 arm, Hana ML Cartridge, Allnic H1201 phono pre. Pure Audio Project Trio 15 Horn speakers with Mundord Supreme oil caps. Power via 10 awg Oyaide cable from panel to custom distribution strip feeding front end. Oyaide dedicated10 AWG branch circuits from panel to each amp. Inakustik speaker and interconnect cables, Genesis Interconnect.
    Kingrexelectric.com Lyncole certified grounding specialist.

  14. #14
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by puroagave View Post
    Mike, thanks for the report, great job. What is the list price for the Uno Fino XD?
    $24,800


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  15. #15
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Staten Island, New York
    Posts
    703

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Great coverage Mike! Thanks for sharing.
    Paul

    Speakers: Von Schweikert VR-5 Anniversary MK II Front L/R, LCR-35 Center, VR-1 Rear L/R Sub: JL Audio F113
    Amps: PS Audio BHK Signature 300 Mono, McIntosh MC207 Pre-Amp PS Audio BHK Signature and Gold Note PH-10 Phono Stage/PSU-10 Power Supply
    Turntable: VPI HR-X 12.7 TONEARM (2) and SDS, Stillpoints LPI
    Tape Deck Otari 5050B II2
    Music Server: Aurender N100H
    Cartridges: Ortofon Cadenza Black, Lyra Helikon Mono Digital Source: Oppo UDP-205 DAC: Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE
    SSP: Marantz AV8801 Cables: Wireworld Electra 7 (P) Wireworld Silver Eclipse 7, Shunyata Delta NR (I) Wireworld Silver Eclipse 7 (S)
    Wireworld Platinum Starlight 7 (USB)
    AC Power Regeneration: PS Audio DirectStream P15 Power Plant and Shunyata Denali 6000s V2.

  16. #16
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jul 2016
    Location
    The Land Downunder
    Posts
    230

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Thanks Mike...the photos & summary commentary has let the rest of us share a little of the "magic"...
    Heartening to see that your best sounding rooms covered almost all speaker variations...
    Floor & stand mounts box speakers...horns...dipole ribbons & the 360 MBL's...

  17. #17
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2014
    Location
    Atlanta, GA
    Posts
    844

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Thanks Mike!

    Did you get to listen to the Wilson demo? I've not seen listening coverage of their room.
    DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.

    www.getbettersound.com

  18. #18
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Smith View Post
    Thanks Mike!

    Did you get to listen to the Wilson demo? I've not seen listening coverage of their room.
    There was no Wilson room, but there was someone with Wilson Tune Tots. That’s it. I didn’t see any other Wilson’s.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  19. #19
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2014
    Location
    Atlanta, GA
    Posts
    844

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Ah! That's why. I had seen Wilson listed on RMAF's website exhibitor list.
    DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.

    www.getbettersound.com

  20. #20
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    https://www.stereophile.com/content/...-capped-awards


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  21. #21
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jan 2014
    Location
    Los Angeles
    Posts
    1,775

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    so a cool $675k for that Verity speaker? LOL.
    Brinkmann Bardo w/ EMT HSD-006 cart, MSB Reference DAC --> Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL --> Ampzilla 2000, 2nd Edition --> Fyne Audio F1-12

  22. #22
    Banned
    Join Date
    Jan 2014
    Location
    USA
    Posts
    613

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    There was no Wilson room, but there was someone with Wilson Tune Tots. That’s it. I didn’t see any other Wilson’s. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk


    Attached Images Attached Images

  23. #23
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2014
    Location
    Atlanta, GA
    Posts
    844

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Interesting! For some reason, I thought that they were designed to work on shelves or desktops only.
    DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.

    www.getbettersound.com

  24. #24
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    SE Michigan
    Posts
    3,766

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Smith View Post
    Interesting! For some reason, I thought that they were designed to work on shelves or desktops only.
    My understanding too...
    Jim

    D'Agostino Momentum M-400's MxV’s & HD Pre-amp
    Wilson Alexandria X2 Series 2 speakers
    Digital: dCS Vivaldi APEX DAC, Clock & Upsampler
    Analog: SME 20/3 with Esoteric E-03 Phono
    Transparent Opus Speaker Cable & Interconnects & Opus Power Cords
    Power Cords on Digital: Shunyata
    Power Conditioner - Shunyata Everest

  25. #25
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jan 2016
    Location
    The Matrix
    Posts
    1,131

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Please tell me they sound dramatically better on or in a bookcase or desk.

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Smith View Post
    Interesting! For some reason, I thought that they were designed to work on shelves or desktops only.
    Marty

    Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
    MSB Premier
    Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
    Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
    PS Audio Powerplant 15

  26. #26
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2014
    Location
    Atlanta, GA
    Posts
    844

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Maybe Bill Peugh will see this & give us the answer.
    DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.

    www.getbettersound.com

  27. #27
    Banned
    Join Date
    Jan 2014
    Location
    USA
    Posts
    613

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    "And last but not least, my first exposure to the Wilson TuneTots (MSRP $9800). Very, very impressive sound. These would be killer for a nearfield setup - at a price!"

    https://www.computeraudiophile.com/ca/audio-shows/rmaf-2018-show-report-r744/

  28. #28
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  29. #29
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Lower Provo River
    Posts
    208

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Smith View Post
    Maybe Bill Peugh will see this & give us the answer.
    Jim, you would appreciate the situation. The available desktop was very solid. However there was a soffit above the desktop that as you might expect, made a mess of everything. Worse, the listening position facing the desktop was awful. So there were two options: try a stand or go static.

    Matt Alterman (Crescendo Fine Audio) had some 24 inch Dynaudio stands filled with sand. I chose to try those with the IsoBase placed on top of the stand. Not an ideal choice, or so we thought. The room had numerous positioning limitations. Norm Steinke offered an Artnovion palette of treatments. Judicious placement made them just what we needed to make the room work.

    So what of TuneTot on a stand? That placement would certainly (and did) eliminate the boundary effect. But by tuning the slot to approximately 1/3 open and careful positioning we were quite pleased with the results. Bass rolled off smoothly and was extended enough that many asked where the sub was. The dynamic capability was also such that the speaker could easy play above a full room. I was quite pleasantly surprised by the performance we were able to obtain. Industry friends whose assessments I've come to trust over many years were unanimous in their enthusiasm. Every person who had heard Tune Tot in dealer showrooms (and voiced an opinion) said it greatly outperformed what they had heard previously.

    Based on what I heard in Denver, 24" worked in conjunction with tuning the slot. I would not try a stand taller than 28" for fear of getting the woofer too near the midpoint between floor and ceiling. I would also like to use a dedicated stand that coupled rather than isolated. I suspect that you might see such a stand from Wilson to address these parameters in the future.

  30. #30
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  31. #31
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2014
    Location
    Atlanta, GA
    Posts
    844

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by metaphacts View Post
    Jim, you would appreciate the situation. The available desktop was very solid. However there was a soffit above the desktop that as you might expect, made a mess of everything. Worse, the listening position facing the desktop was awful. So there were two options: try a stand or go static.

    Matt Alterman (Crescendo Fine Audio) had some 24 inch Dynaudio stands filled with sand. I chose to try those with the IsoBase placed on top of the stand. Not an ideal choice, or so we thought. The room had numerous positioning limitations. Norm Steinke offered an Artnovion palette of treatments. Judicious placement made them just what we needed to make the room work.

    So what of TuneTot on a stand? That placement would certainly (and did) eliminate the boundary effect. But by tuning the slot to approximately 1/3 open and careful positioning we were quite pleased with the results. Bass rolled off smoothly and was extended enough that many asked where the sub was. The dynamic capability was also such that the speaker could easy play above a full room. I was quite pleasantly surprised by the performance we were able to obtain. Industry friends who's assessments I've come to trust over many years were unanimous in their enthusiasm. Every person who had heard Tune Tot in dealer showrooms (and voiced an opinion) said it greatly outperformed what they had heard previously.

    Based on what I heard in Denver, 24" worked in conjunction with tuning the slot. I would not try a stand taller than 28" for fear of getting the woofer too near the midpoint between floor and ceiling. I would also like to use a dedicated stand that coupled rather than isolated. I suspect that you might see such a stand from Wilson to address these parameters in the future.
    Cool! Should significantly enlarge the market for them.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.

    www.getbettersound.com

  32. #32
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  33. #33
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Seattle, WA
    Posts
    317

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    It is interesting how we all hear things differently. While I agree with many of the picks, I (along with 2 others that were attending the show with me) thought the Von Schweikert Audio ULTRA 9 was one of the most unimpressive big budget component rooms. I went there 3 times and each time the sound seemed to be trapped in the speakers. I felt the same about the Rockport room with the Constellation electronics.
    Anshul

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post

  34. #34
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2015
    Location
    Front Row Center
    Posts
    3,456

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by apdoc2004 View Post
    It is interesting how we all hear things differently. While I agree with many of the picks, I (along with 2 others that were attending the show with me) thought the Von Schweikert Audio ULTRA 9 was one of the most unimpressive big budget component rooms. I went there 3 times and each time the sound seemed to be trapped in the speakers. I felt the same about the Rockport room with the Constellation electronics.
    Anshul
    Not surprising at all , its not like trying to prove it was Oswald all along

    The editor (Greg Weaver) Personal speakers are VSA’s , he was or may still be associated with Positive Feedback , PF was a strong supporter of Albert V in the early days, when the boom was not in the Box , not surprising to see VSA getting a good plug , deservedly or not ...





    Regards

  35. #35
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    Quote Originally Posted by apdoc2004 View Post
    It is interesting how we all hear things differently. While I agree with many of the picks, I (along with 2 others that were attending the show with me) thought the Von Schweikert Audio ULTRA 9 was one of the most unimpressive big budget component rooms. I went there 3 times and each time the sound seemed to be trapped in the speakers. I felt the same about the Rockport room with the Constellation electronics.
    Anshul
    Lets see your list and write up.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  36. #36
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Seattle, WA
    Posts
    317

    Re: RMAF 2018 Best of Show

    I will give you my list. I don't have time for a write up.
    Some of my favorite rooms were (in no particular order):
    - Alsyvox Botticelli planar speakers.
    - Magico M3 with MSB.
    - MBL
    - Gryphon
    - Verity Monsalvat
    - Spatial Lumina.
    - Sanders 10E electrostatics.
    - Borresen Acoustics
    - Sonus Faber Electa amator.
    - Joseph audio Perspectives.
    - NOLA room

    I might be missing a couple more but these are the ones that readily come to mind.
    Anshul
    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Lets see your list and write up.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

AudioShark - The Best High End Audio Discussion forum.

AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.

The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.

At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.

We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!

Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com

Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.

Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team

RMAF 2018 Best of Show

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •