Convergent Audio Technology (CAT) At FLAX 2023
Ken Stevens once again showcases why CAT gear is truly exceptional.
Show Report By Steven R. Rochlin

  One of the exciting rooms here at the Florida International Audio Expo 2023 was Convergent Audio Technology (CAT) and seeing Ken Stevens. This legendary company has been producing enchanting-sounding luxury audio for many years, with many rave reviews accordingly. According to their website, "CAT's philosophy is to design our products to neither add to, nor detract from, the music." Ken is a longtime designer of vacuum tube premium audio equipment for well over over 30 year, and with time comes knowledge and wisdom. Without a doubt his experience brought many benefits for attendees at FLAX 2023. Here at FLAX 2023 CAT was showcasing many products including:

CD Player: Audio Arrow Capitol Classic ($6000, discontinued in 2000)
Cartridge: Van den Hul Crimson $5000
Turntable: VPI HW40 $22,000

Preamplifier: CAT SL1 Legend Extreme $59,995
Amplifier 1: CAT The Statement Extreme $224,990/pr
Amplifier 2: CAT JL7SE $59,990/pr
Amplifier 3: CAT JL5LE $27,895

Speakers: Magico S5 Mk2 ($38,000, discontinued in 2016)
Speaker Cables: Black Path prototype
Accessory: Gingko Audio Speaker/Equipment ARCHs ($179/set of four)

Cabling: IC Pre to Power: Black Path amorphous Gold/Silver Hot Rod 3M $16,000
IC To Preamp: Black Path amorphous Gold and Silver Hot Rod 1.5M $10,000
IC TT to Pre amorphous Gold/Silver shielded phono cable (Prototype)

Power Cords:
Essential Sound Products (ESP) Pro ES $800
ESP Reference $2500
ESP Eloquence $20,000
Assorted ESP power cords and distribution box

My listening notes say this system produced silky-smooth sounding upper frequencies, glorious harmonics for the midrange, and very deep/tuneful bass. The soundscape was wide and deep, with natural extension into the room (as in the recording). This system was well-tuned and a winner, which earns Enjoy the Music.om's Best Of FLAX 2023 Award.

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