Consumer Electronic Show 2003

 

Friday
Part 1

  Simaudio's Moon line has their two new A/V products and DVD player (as launched at CEDIA). The top unit is their Orion DVD/CD transport ($2,495 for base unit), the middle is the Stargate 7.1 pre-pro pre-amplifier processor ($4,295), while the bottom unit is the Aurora multi-channel amplifier ($4,495 in five channel configuration, $5,295 for seven channels). The Aurora has an output 200 watts per channel with extremely low signal to noise ration. All three pieces have handle mounts on the side; yet can be 19" rack mountable.

 

The Antique Sound Labs new Wave AV20 is the next move for those who enjoy the Wave AV8 (as reviewed here). It produces about 18 watts per monoblock with two 6L6 tubes. A single 12AX7 is employed for input duties. Bias is user adjustable.

 

Zanden Audio showcased their line, phono mc tube monoblock amplifier. Their new monoblock power amplifier is based on the 845 output tube. It produces 70 watts per channel using two 845 tubes in push-pull and is designed specifically for the USA market. It is purity in design is said to be able to drive low sensitivity loudspeakers. Their new model 9000, not pictured here, uses two 300B tubes in push-pull to produce 30 watts per channel.

 

Jeff Joseph of Joseph Audio was proudly holding his Stereophile award as he stood next to his RM7si signature MK. II ($1,799) monitor and RM33si Limited Edition ($8,999) floorstanding loudspeaker. See our extensive pre-show report for more information on these wonderful products.

 

Using a multi-platter, tuned design, the spj Alba ($16,000 with tonearm) turntable is a substantial 150 lbs design.

 

Cardas also has their contact conditioner.

 

Accuphase's new stereo Digital Voicing Equalizer DG-38 ($8,500) has a touch panel LCD panel for customizable EQ curve, or the unit an auto-calibrate a room with microphone (included). Digital and analog inputs plus digital and analog outputs can be accommodated (digital standard, analog optional).

 

SAP of Italy proudly showed their new Anniversary monoblock tube amplifier ($9,900/pr). Use4s a pair of KT88 tubes in push-pull "Class A" zero feedback. WBT input RCA jacks and loudspeaker wire binding posts.

 

SAP also has their new RELAXA Feet ($395 for set of three). These are based on using strong magnetism to float products, thereby reducing the affects of outside vibrations from negatively affecting the signal.

 

Hovland's new power amplifier as seen within our pre-show report.

 

The always lovely and accommodating Jozefina of EuroAudioTeam, formerly of out of business VIAC, has decided to begin offering tubes made in the Czech Republic, but at a different facility then VIAC used. The Tesla factory to be precise. Tubes manufactured include the 300B, 2A3, 32B, 300BX, KT88, and a few others. Thanks Jozephina for great music and satisfying those of us with tube gear :-)

 

muRata ES024 loudspeaker

 

GamuT's CD1R 24-bit/5.6MHz player ($3,495) easily handles CD replay. Both digital and analog outputs are provided for. Here is a scoop, GamuT is working on a DVD/SACD player so stayed tuned!

 

The IMF Audio Musica 25 floorstanding loudspeaker ($1,500) is a three-driver, two-way design employing a 1-inch silk soft dome and two 5-inch midrange/woofers.

 

Legend Audio's new MK. II version of their Starlet integrated amplifier produces 48 watts per channel using a pair of 650 tubes in push-pull triode.

 

Tube City had their very interesting K-300BC ($3,500 including separate tubed pre-amplifier). The front Magic Eye tube is always a lovely sight for tube heads like myself. The amplifier produces 15 watts per channel in triode mode using their own brand of 300BC tube, yet has a switch for those who desire 8 watts from a different brand (normal) 300B tube.

 

Marten Design's Coltrane loudspeaker ($40,000) was in the E.A.R. room and can be seen within our pre-show report.

 

In the Tri-Cell room was my fave designer Italy-made electronics. Seen here is the Fase Nimis amplifier ($1,155). See review by clicking here.

 

Click Here For Friday Part II

 

Click here to see a complete listing of
specialty high-end audio show exhibitors.

 

Click here to see last year's show coverage.