Saturday
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April Sound's Stello DP200 ($2,000) is a digital/pre-amplifier with MM/MC phono stage, 24-bit/192kHz decoding, and upsamples CD as well. The unit includes a wireless remote control for the most popular operations. Balanced (XLR) input/output and of course single ended (RCA).
Art Audio's seductively draped Adagia tube amplifier. With looks like this who cares about specifications!
Ok, for those interested, we have reviews of the Art
Audio Diavolo, the Art
Audio PX-25 SE, and also the Art
Audio Gill Signature.
VBT VIII ($1,300 each unit, two shown here) is a modular unit featuring an 8-inch coated-paper driver with a frequency response of 22Hz to 150Hz. This is a passive unit, therefore external amplification and crossover is necessary. Of course VBT also offers a VTB200 ($450) that produces 200 watts and includes an adjustable crossover.
The ever-popular Antique Sound Labs AQ 1009 $5,595) monoblock amplifier employs a pair of 845 output tubes, 12AU7, and EL34 to produce 60 watts in push-pull triode. Interstage transformers a choke filtering throughout. Reference 3A Dulcet ($1,695) loudspeaker in the cute mini version of my fave
Reference 3A MM De
Capo-i.
Kuzma's new Air Line ($8,000) tonearm uses high pressure (60 psi) with a unique stiff bearing. In fact the entire construction is extremely precise and stiff. Was very impressive looking and VTA is easily adjustable in 0.01mm increments(!).
Innersound's Kachina ($12,000) hybrid electrostatic loudspeaker employs their special "ultrastat" panel. An 8-inch woofer is mated to a large panel that is said to be impervious to moisture, arcing, etc (unlike other panel drivers).
redpoint audio designs has the best color turntable at the show. Their model Testarossa ($7,500) uses an oil and lead shot platter; the 58 lbs base is cut from 6061 solid billet aluminum. The arm pod and motor pods are completely separated from the platter to insure mechanical isolation.
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Click here to see
a
complete listing of show exhibitors.
Click here to see our
2003 show coverage.
High-Performance Audio Reviews
