September 2019


Best Of 2019 Blue Note Equipment Awards

Wells Audio Commander Level II Tube Line Stage
Price: $9000
Click here to read the complete review.

  The new Wells Audio Tube Controller Level II Preamp With a circuit designed by audio veteran and legendary figure, Scott Frankland, this stylish preamp sets a standard for its virtually complete absence of non-musical artifacts. With a vanishingly low noise floor, this preamplifier is that rare combination of exceptionally valuable reviewer's tool and music lover's joy. Competitive with the best at a fraction of the cost makes this preamp a value proposition that is hard to beat.

One measure of a really fine audio system or audio component is the extent to which it lacks artificiality. When we describe a component, a system, or even just a listening experience as bringing us closer to the music, we are, at least in part, pointing to a meaningful absence of artificiality, of non-musical and in some cases a-musical distractions. When individuals talk about the speakers in their system disappearing, often they are saying that box induced artifacts are negligible or removed altogether.

In short, the CLII provided a lens into the system's components. At the same time, it provided a window into the heart and soul of the music. It is, frankly, the first preamp I have listened to for a sustained period of time since I had to give up my precious Shindo reference system that is both a music lover and a reviewer's dream. You not only hear everything you need to, but allow yourself to fall in love again with everything that makes music so central to our lives not just as audiophiles, but as humans.

Click here to read the complete review.

Previous Annual Blue Note Awards

Product of the Year Awards 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, and 2001.