Results 1 to 42 of 42
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April 15, 2018, 09:20 AM #1
Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Memorable Rooms:
The VAC/Von Schweikert room with Esoteric (digital) and Kronos (analog) in a massive 35 x 65 room was absolutely mind blowing. The sheer size and scale of the sound in a room that could accommodate was awesome to hear.
The Avantgarde Trio room was gorgeously decorated with all the colors and accents blending perfectly. The Presidential Suite on the 16th floor was transformed into an Avantgarde Mecca. With Trio’s and a stack of bass horns, Zero XD’s and Uno XD’s. Awesome!
Exciting New Products:
The ARC REF160M’s. Pictures don’t do them justice and the sound is intoxicating. Can’t wait to get them into a system I know.
The Western Electric 91e. This 300b Integrated uses a new patented WE circuitry that’s capable of 22 Watts/channel in single ended mode.
The temporary case (for the show):
The final product will be in this case:
A nice pair of Avantgarde’s and a 91e anyone? Hmmm....me like!
Cambridge Audio Edge
A new integrated and a new amp/preamp/DAC combo using new biasing technology. Exciting product at a fair price.
Verity Othelo Speakers
The fit and finish matches the sound. Gorgeous.
The Bryston stacking including their active speakers using the external Bryston crossover with built in DSP and a new 6 channel Bryston amp. Awesome sound.
Magico A3’s
I went to this room three days and it sounded amazing every day. They defy their price point. A grand slam home run.
VAC 170iQ
Awesome looking, AMAZING sound and great price point ($9995 without Phono).
Aurender Content Server
It looks like this product is getting ready for prime time. With its connectivity options, you will be able to attach it to a 12 CD disc feeder (or maybe two - TBD) and rip away!
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy 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/
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April 15, 2018, 11:49 AM #2
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Certainly can’t argue w any of those Mike.
Jock
If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.
---------
House: Naim ND555/2PS, Naim 552, Naim 500, Studer A80/Doshi V3, Magico M2s, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Lumina IC/SC, Shunyata Everest and Omega PCs.
Workshop: Naim ND555/2 PS, VAC Master Pre, VAC Sig 200iQ, Border Patrol pre/power, Avant Garde Duo Mezzo XD, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Shunyata IC/SC, Shunyata Typhon QR/Triton V3/Sigma PCs.
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April 15, 2018, 12:02 PM #3
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Well done 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.
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April 15, 2018, 01:16 PM #4
- Join Date
- Oct 2013
- Location
- Seattle, WA
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- 317
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Mike,
Fantastic job as always!
What are the electronics in the Verity room?
Thanks,
Anshul
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April 15, 2018, 01:21 PM #5
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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/
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April 15, 2018, 01:21 PM #6
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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/
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April 15, 2018, 01:36 PM #7
- Join Date
- Oct 2013
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- Sacramento
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- 1,132
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Mike,
Did you hear any memorable speakers (beside Verity) that don't cost a kidney and need a barn-sized room?
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April 15, 2018, 01:47 PM #8
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Besides the Magico A3’s? I heard nothing better under $10k. Nothing.
I really liked the Bryston active speakers - Mini T. What a system! Removing the crossover and making it external, feeding it with a 6 channel amp (tweeter, mids, Bass), DSP to compensate for the hotel room was all awesome!
I’ll be honest, I had so much ground to cover that if I walked into a room and they had stupid little speakers the size of something for a desktop computer, I moved on. There were lots of those rooms. Just no interest. You want something that size? Buy the KEF LS50’s or Harbeth P3’s, not much better IMO.
On the stand mount side, the MBL’s were terrific in a small hotel room. Not sure of the price though.
The new Ryan standmounts were good too. The little DynAudios too.
Aside from that, I heard the regular culprits and nothing stood out for me. But let me give it some more thought, review my pictures and notes and I’ll let you know.
All in all, a fun show. The rooms were a little awkward by the way they were laid out. Just couldn’t get easy access in or out. But if you’re patient, you’ll get your turn.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy 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/
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April 15, 2018, 02:59 PM #9
- Join Date
- Jan 2016
- Location
- Moscow
- Posts
- 13
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Hi Mike,
What about Lampi and Daedalus? Not worth mentioning?
Thanks,
AzizSystem: Antipodes DX > Lampizator L4 > Coincident Statement Line Stage > Border Patrol S10 EXD + Takatsuku 300B > Coincident Total Victory V
Power Distribution: Shunyata Triton V2
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April 15, 2018, 03:25 PM #10
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Mike, Thanks for your photos and comments.
We had conflicts with a play Friday and a concert tonight so your coverage is appreciated.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
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April 15, 2018, 03:34 PM #11
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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/
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April 15, 2018, 03:36 PM #12
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- Sacramento
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- 1,132
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April 15, 2018, 04:37 PM #13
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- Los Angeles
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- 1,776
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
those Stenheim speakers with the Vac look awesome - I hope they start to make inroads with USA distribution.
Brinkmann Bardo w/ EMT HSD-006 cart, MSB Reference DAC --> Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL --> Ampzilla 2000, 2nd Edition --> Fyne Audio F1-12
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April 15, 2018, 08:37 PM #14
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- Oct 2015
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- Chicago, IL
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- 67
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Nice to briefly meet you at the show.
Agree on all the point above. The A3’s at 10k are really good, and for me they sounded best once the D’Agostino amp was brought in. My friend and I at the show made the same exact comment with respect to the small speakers, and why one wouldn’t just get LS50’sMain System:
Speakers: Magico S3 MK1 | Amp: Boulder 1160 | Pre-Amp: Ref10 | Digital: DCS Vivaldi 3/4 stack & esoteric K07x | Phono-Pre: ARC Ref 2se | Phono: AMG Viella w\ 12JT & Benz LPS cart.
Living Room:
Speakers: KEF LS50 | Amp: Primaluna Prologue Premium | Digital: Lumin D2
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April 15, 2018, 08:40 PM #15
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- Nov 2013
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Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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April 15, 2018, 09:31 PM #16
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Looks like it was a great show Mike , well attended too ....
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April 16, 2018, 10:53 AM #17
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
I also wanted to add, that although I rarely attend the seminars these days, I made a special point of attending the John Atkinson seminar. John was celebrating 50 years in the hobby and just to hear him talk, honestly, yet diplomatically, was very quite entertaining. I have the utmost respect for John. He has been my favorite writer for quite some time. I love how he combines his listening experience with meaningful measurements. I also hold him in the highest regard in terms of professionalism and integrity. As honest as the day is long, he's also quite the visionary - seeing the importance of creating separate sections and sites for digital, headphones, analog and everything in between.
In his seminar, he discussed a variety of topics and took us on a brief journey through his career. He answered all the questions honestly and definitely left me with a sense of relief that he was still in charge at Stereophile after the acquisition and is still the same visionary and still working as hard as ever.
The seminar was being recorded and once posted online, I highly recommend watching it.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/
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April 16, 2018, 12:48 PM #18
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Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
I shouldn't post this as Joe is subscribed. LOL
Also, I am eating a bit of crow as I have been on record as not being a fan of either ARC or Wilson. However, I have no problem with giving an honest opinion which often gets me into trouble.
With all that being said, and I rarely, if ever, can pick a best of show, it's just too hard with so much good stuff. This year is an exception. Mike is being modest about the 160M's Them driving the Alexa 2's were outstanding. Peter was there showing the difference between MQA and non-MQA on the same tracks. On a full orchestral piece that system hit so hard I was in disbelieve, what hit me The system also allowed the emotion to come through on prior Classical tracks played.
The first time I heard MQA. On one hand with MQA it seemed the tracks were smoother with better resolution. However, on the track I mentioned with the drum percussion I thought it hit harder without MQA. Maybe at that point I knew it was coming.
Back to my point, those 160M's are some bad ass amps, they can be sweet and gentle when called for and hit like Mike Tyson if needed. Though different times, different music, I'd still put the 106M's against most any amp I've heard in solid state or tube. I was absolutely impressed. Some bulk at the price of audio gear these days but in comparison, in my opinion the 106M's are a deal at $30k a set.
I wonder if anyone else heard that demo? That was a big room, that percussion from the drum hit me right in the chest. A hit like that from a tube amp......Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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April 16, 2018, 06:20 PM #19
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Another observation at Axpona this year: digital ruled the roost.
Most of the rooms (90%??) were playing digital.
But ironically, the only room that gave me goosebumps was when the Zesto guys were playing Nat King Cole on vinyl. Ha!
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy 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/
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April 16, 2018, 06:44 PM #20
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- Nov 2014
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- 2,123
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Tower Records... good memories; long gone. ☹️
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April 16, 2018, 07:17 PM #21
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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.
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April 17, 2018, 12:32 AM #22
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- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
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- 3,090
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Anyone wonder into the Carver room? I liked what I heard. I need to read up on the 350 amp, the guy reached over and grabbed the tube to show how cool they run and they offer like a 4 year warranty on tubes. Their Line Source speaker seemed to do it's job as well.
I liked the Gobel speakers but just a note as they cost $140k.
The AQ and Kronzilla room was stellar sound.
Synergistic was using the S3 with a Constellation amp, I enjoyed that system. Along that thought, the A3 showed it is worthy of it's name tag and a top contender at it's price.
I did get to hear Vitus. Struck me as extremely transparent and detailed. No Ayre. Someone told me they held an off site event at a dealer.
I heard the Diablo. My friends heard it before me and thought it to be one of best at the show. My impression is more reserved, I'm not sure what the difference was. There was mention of some adjustment on the Gryphon speaker for tone. Perhaps it was changed, and, often times depending on music etc. impressions are different on visits to the same system. Speaking of that, I am a big fan of Thrax, and, have heard it impress. The guy showing their system this year brought terrible demo music.
I heard Constellation again with a set of Martin Logan, the sound was good. The Constellation sound I like.
I heard Einstein for the first time. The bass was very visceral, the highs and mids though were not as prominent. Is that a typical sound for them? We didn't investigate the system enough to speculate.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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April 17, 2018, 12:27 PM #23
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Jock
If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.
---------
House: Naim ND555/2PS, Naim 552, Naim 500, Studer A80/Doshi V3, Magico M2s, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Lumina IC/SC, Shunyata Everest and Omega PCs.
Workshop: Naim ND555/2 PS, VAC Master Pre, VAC Sig 200iQ, Border Patrol pre/power, Avant Garde Duo Mezzo XD, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Shunyata IC/SC, Shunyata Typhon QR/Triton V3/Sigma PCs.
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April 17, 2018, 12:30 PM #24
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
I know this is Avant Garde central here and for good reason, they are outstanding speakers. But I actually heard some other horn speakers at Axpona that I also liked a lot, Sadurni Acoustics Stacatto. Listened to some Eva Cassidy on them and they really drew me in, extremely natural sounding on female vocals. A definite thumbs up, in my opinion.
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
--------------------------------------------
Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords
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April 17, 2018, 12:52 PM #25
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- Apr 2015
- Posts
- 634
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April 17, 2018, 03:55 PM #26
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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
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April 17, 2018, 04:18 PM #27
- Join Date
- Jan 2014
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- USA
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Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
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April 17, 2018, 04:52 PM #28
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April 17, 2018, 05:56 PM #29
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
I guess I don't understand your post #25. First you say you hear from file proponents that CD is dead, then you confirm that by indicating that file players are almost used exclusivly at audio shows. Aren't your friends audiophiles and are those attending the audio shows not audiophiles. You are correct CD's are dead, but they are dying fast and will become a niche product just like LP's.
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
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April 17, 2018, 05:59 PM #30
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- Apr 2015
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- 634
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April 19, 2018, 12:38 PM #31
- Join Date
- Apr 2018
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- 1
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Hi Mike,
Did you hear the Spatial Audio X2's this year? I think that they were matched with LTA electronics and was looking for how they sounded.
thanks,
Chris
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April 19, 2018, 12:42 PM #32
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Welcome to the forum, thank you for joining.
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.
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April 19, 2018, 02:17 PM #33
- Join Date
- Apr 2013
- Posts
- 259
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Mr Peabody
If you are going to RMAF you will get to hear the Gobels in a big room using their Reference Aeon and an all dual mono Ch Precision setup. They are going all out at RMAF as their “real” first intro.
I am on a trip now but from what I understand the speakers you heard at AXPONA are back in my listening room.
I am using them with with CH Precision M1 like at AXPONA except in a fantastic room and an MSB Select II front end.
Really superb.
I’m hoping to get to RMAF to hear their big room setup which I believe is how they will be shown in Munich as well.
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April 19, 2018, 03:58 PM #34
- Join Date
- Apr 2018
- Location
- Las Vegas
- Posts
- 78
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
For the first time, I attended an AXPONA show this year; I have to say that it was a blast. To my ears, the two best performances were real standouts. One was the Von Schweikert Audio Ultra 11s with VAC amplification and Esoteric electronics. Listening to a number of different music selections, I was consistently entertained -- which is the ultimate objective, I think, of this hobby/passion. The other distinguished presentation, however, provided me with an experience I shall long remember. It was the Sonus Faber Aira IIs with all Audio Research electronics, including their Reference 750 SE power amps. Every day, I tended to gravitate at some point to that room just to enjoy what was being played. However, at ten minutes before closing the last day, I found myself again there -- and alone but for the fellow managing the equipment. I asked him to play something which I knew would put that system to the test: Led Zeppelin's "Dazed and Confused". All I can say is "OH MY GOD!!" I was hearing the band live. Sound never blurred, even the repeated strikes of the cymbals; Plant's singing, Page's and Jones' guitar playing -- all were clean, clear and rock-solid. To me, this was simply audio nirvana. The only problem with this remarkable experience is that I will never again be able to enjoy Dazed and Confused as much. When I returned home, I played the same song on my [beloved by me, at least] system. Sigh. Good, but so far from its possible.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention speaker systems at four price ranges I thought to be impressive: under $5K -- the Neat Audio Iota Explorer; $5k - $10K -- the Magico A3; $10K - $16k -- the Wilson Audio Sabrina and the TAD Micro Evolution 1; and $16K - $20K -- the Kii III (w/built-in amplification). Above $20K, there weren't any surprises, although a few disappointments. Below $20K I was impressed at just how good each system performed at its price point; they are all worth serious consideration if one is considering an upgrade. One related note: I thought the Sabrinas were the best sounding Wilson Audio speakers at the show, which goes to prove, I think, how important it is to pay attention to complementary electronics and cabling as well as room treatment when demonstrating a speaker.
If I had any complaint at the show it was how many manufacturers and retailers were oblivious to the music they played. Personally, if I had heard much more "smooth jazz", I am pretty certain I would have needed institutionalization. By the third day, I intentionally avoided any room where that type of music was playing. It has made me wonder, is that why people spend $25K to $500K on their audio systems -- to listen to a breathless, energy-depleted female vocalist -- accompanied by a couple/few instrumentalists -- sing an utterly forgettable variation of some dirge? Obviously, I am showing my prejudices here, but in my opinion that music is more appropriate as background music for drinking than for losing oneself in a gripping audio performance.
I don't want to end my "report" in a negative space, so let me just say that the quality of reproduced music I heard was, for the most part, truly wonderful. We are in the golden age of audio, for sure.Jonathan
_______________________
Age is a mental construct.
System: Theta Casablanca V preamp/processor/DAC; Wadia 8 transport; Wadia 2000 DAC; Theta Compli SACD transport; Lumin T2 streamer/DAC; Roon Nucleus+; Luxul AGS-1024 switch; SOTA Sapphire turntable w/Premier FT3 arm & Hana SL cartridge; PS Audio Stellar phono preamp; SweetVinyl SC-2 noise/click remover; Oppo 203 4K player; Magnum Dynalab FT-101A tuner; McIntosh MC611 mono amplifiers (3); Revel Ultima Studio/ Voice/Embrace speakers (L/C/R and sides); Arendal 1723 speakers (surrounds); SVS SB-16 (2) and 3000 Micro (2) subwoofers; Stax SR-L300 headphones; TeddyPardo 19/3 linear power supply; Richard Gray's Substation; Shunyata 6000/S, 2000/T (2), Venom PS10, Hydra (2), and Defender (2) power conditioners; Wireworld Silver Eclipse 8 speaker cables; Audioquest, Cardas, Kimber Kable, MIT, and Wireworld interconnects; Cullen, and Shunyata power cords.
JVC RS 3100 projector; MadVR Envy Extreme II video processor.
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April 19, 2018, 04:29 PM #35
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Thanks for posting and welcome to the the site!! I believe you meant the Sonus Faber Aida II.
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
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April 19, 2018, 04:43 PM #36
- Join Date
- Apr 2018
- Location
- Las Vegas
- Posts
- 78
Ouch!
Jim, you are correct -- mea culpa! I meant to say, Aida II.
Jonathan
_______________________
Age is a mental construct.
System: Theta Casablanca V preamp/processor/DAC; Wadia 8 transport; Wadia 2000 DAC; Theta Compli SACD transport; Lumin T2 streamer/DAC; Roon Nucleus+; Luxul AGS-1024 switch; SOTA Sapphire turntable w/Premier FT3 arm & Hana SL cartridge; PS Audio Stellar phono preamp; SweetVinyl SC-2 noise/click remover; Oppo 203 4K player; Magnum Dynalab FT-101A tuner; McIntosh MC611 mono amplifiers (3); Revel Ultima Studio/ Voice/Embrace speakers (L/C/R and sides); Arendal 1723 speakers (surrounds); SVS SB-16 (2) and 3000 Micro (2) subwoofers; Stax SR-L300 headphones; TeddyPardo 19/3 linear power supply; Richard Gray's Substation; Shunyata 6000/S, 2000/T (2), Venom PS10, Hydra (2), and Defender (2) power conditioners; Wireworld Silver Eclipse 8 speaker cables; Audioquest, Cardas, Kimber Kable, MIT, and Wireworld interconnects; Cullen, and Shunyata power cords.
JVC RS 3100 projector; MadVR Envy Extreme II video processor.
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April 19, 2018, 10:32 PM #37
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,090
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
That reminded me, my first time hearing CH Precision. good stuff.
Did anyone else hear the ARC 160M's? I only made it that one time so not sure what the room was like the rest of the time. Maybe I was lucky enough to hear them show what they are capable of.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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April 19, 2018, 11:09 PM #38
- Join Date
- Apr 2018
- Location
- Las Vegas
- Posts
- 78
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Yes, the CH Precision electronics with the YG Acoustics' Carmel 2s were very, very good. However, the simple setup demonstrated, not including cabling, was $140K. I saw the ARC M160s -- they are cooler looking in person than in pictures, but I'll be damned whether I can remember which speakers they drove. I suppose that the system wasn't as memorable as, say, was the CH Precision one.
Jonathan
_______________________
Age is a mental construct.
System: Theta Casablanca V preamp/processor/DAC; Wadia 8 transport; Wadia 2000 DAC; Theta Compli SACD transport; Lumin T2 streamer/DAC; Roon Nucleus+; Luxul AGS-1024 switch; SOTA Sapphire turntable w/Premier FT3 arm & Hana SL cartridge; PS Audio Stellar phono preamp; SweetVinyl SC-2 noise/click remover; Oppo 203 4K player; Magnum Dynalab FT-101A tuner; McIntosh MC611 mono amplifiers (3); Revel Ultima Studio/ Voice/Embrace speakers (L/C/R and sides); Arendal 1723 speakers (surrounds); SVS SB-16 (2) and 3000 Micro (2) subwoofers; Stax SR-L300 headphones; TeddyPardo 19/3 linear power supply; Richard Gray's Substation; Shunyata 6000/S, 2000/T (2), Venom PS10, Hydra (2), and Defender (2) power conditioners; Wireworld Silver Eclipse 8 speaker cables; Audioquest, Cardas, Kimber Kable, MIT, and Wireworld interconnects; Cullen, and Shunyata power cords.
JVC RS 3100 projector; MadVR Envy Extreme II video processor.
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April 20, 2018, 01:16 AM #39
- Join Date
- Oct 2015
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Posts
- 67
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Main System:
Speakers: Magico S3 MK1 | Amp: Boulder 1160 | Pre-Amp: Ref10 | Digital: DCS Vivaldi 3/4 stack & esoteric K07x | Phono-Pre: ARC Ref 2se | Phono: AMG Viella w\ 12JT & Benz LPS cart.
Living Room:
Speakers: KEF LS50 | Amp: Primaluna Prologue Premium | Digital: Lumin D2
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April 20, 2018, 10:07 AM #40
- Join Date
- Dec 2017
- Posts
- 73
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April 20, 2018, 03:39 PM #41
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,090
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
I believe Sabrina was with D'Agostino
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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April 20, 2018, 07:32 PM #42
- Join Date
- Oct 2015
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Posts
- 67
Re: Axpona 2018 - Memorable Rooms and Exciting New Products
Main System:
Speakers: Magico S3 MK1 | Amp: Boulder 1160 | Pre-Amp: Ref10 | Digital: DCS Vivaldi 3/4 stack & esoteric K07x | Phono-Pre: ARC Ref 2se | Phono: AMG Viella w\ 12JT & Benz LPS cart.
Living Room:
Speakers: KEF LS50 | Amp: Primaluna Prologue Premium | Digital: Lumin D2
AudioShark - The Best High End Audio Discussion forum.
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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
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
Charles was going to be my guess. Enjoy Charles.
Still dialing in Avantgarde’s for...