WINTER	2009
Page Two

QUANTUM: A/B type demonstrations at the show usually aren’t very effective. You know the drill, listen with then without a particular component or accessory and compare the differences. Problem is, at CES, the room is unfamiliar, you’re listening to system for the first time and there are often conversations in the background - hardly the ideal scenario for a comparison. That said, a comparison demonstration in the Nordost room was extremely successful and was so significant as to be startling.
            Long time Nordost wizard Lars introduced me to their Quantum QX-4 (manufactured by Quantum Resonant Technology and distributed worldwide by Nordost). This unique gadget had such a profound effect on the sound as to warrant dropping of jaws. Switching in/out just one of the multiple Quantum units produced dramatic effects. Switched on, one easily heard significant improvement in texture, harmonic structure, grain and sound-space. We’re not talking subtle here gang, easily in the category of a major component change and once heard, very hard to live without.
            Just exactly what will the QX-4 do for your system? The British publication Hi-Fi+ recently reviewed the Quantum Resonant Technology QX-4 (and awarded it 2008 Product of the Year), so I’ll let them answer: “The only word that adequately describes my feelings at that point (having the QX-4 switched off) is bereft – and I’m not overstating or exaggerating the effect. Quantum Technology allows your system to work better, allows it deliver much more music – and does so in a way that seems unique. In this respect the QX-2 is good, the QX-4 is better. One demonstration should convince and I suspect that anybody who hears these units will have no trouble justifying the extra expense of the QX-4; indeed they might just start saving for another.”
            “…I have yet to hear a single situation where the system and the music failed to benefit from its inclusion.” “Be in no doubt, there is something extraordinary going on here.”
            The Quantum guys have been around since 1997 but have recently introduced second generation modules with dramatically improved performance. They’ve also found that daisy-chaining multiple modules pays huge dividends in performance so they created the QX-2 (using two modules) and QX-4 (four modules). Taking that concept a step further, you can stack more than one QX-2 or QX-4 for even greater benefits. As Lars said, “More Quantum, more smiles!”
            I was impressed enough that I’ve ordered Quantum’s for all the systems here. I (strongly) suggest you try one of these. QX-2 - $1699, WX-4 - $2499. We'll have a CES show special running, so check in with us for pricing.

QUAD: We can always count on our friends at Quad for some sweet and relaxing sound. After being bombarded with excessive volume, overblown bass and overly analytical presentations, it’s nice to soak up some relaxing tunes in the Quad suite. You should try some of that sweet Quad sound in your room!
        Several new products were introduced at this years’ show. The Platinum Series gear has been designed to offer a new level of sophistication and performance as their flagship line-up, but still at a very reasonable price point. The full featured Platinum Preamp offers no less than six RCA inputs and one XLR along with a 3.5mm jack for your iPod. There are two sets of main outputs and two tape outs. The Quad System Link connection is provided (as it is on other Quad gear), allowing a simple one-wire connection between any Quad components. The companion Platinum Stereo Amplifier delivers a solid 150 watts per channel at 8 Ohms. Though firm pricing has not been established, we’re hoping for about $2000 for either the preamp or amp.
            Other components will be joining the Platinum ranks in the future, a CD player for sure, and possibly a pair of mono amps and maybe even an integrated.
            Speaking of integrated amps, this spring will welcome the release of a full tube unit in the Classic Range. Designed by respected tube guru, Tim DeParavicini, the Quad II Classic Integrated should be a honey! 25 sumptuous watts are generated by the four KT-66 output tubes, four ECC88 drivers and two ECC83 complete the tube layout. Three line level inputs and a tape monitor are provided along with a MM/MC phono input! Wow, imagine this amp, a good turntable and a pair of Quad electrostats… Yum! Estimated $4K.
            Need some killer desktop monitors? Quad has the answer in the form of the all new 9L Active. As the name implies, these are powered by a 60 watt internal amplifier. Just connect an input from your computer (USB analog), iPod (3.5mm) or other source component (RCA), and away you go. Complete with remote control to adjust volume, select the input or mute. The 9L are just $699 a pair, and available in a variety of hip colors to match your décor.

SIMAUDIO: Several exciting introductions here. The MOON CD3.3 Disc Player ($3000, $3200 with balanced outputs), companion source component for the i3.3 Integrated Amplifier, embodies many of the revolutionary technologies found in the highly acclaimed Simaudio MOON CD players. The CD3.3 uses state-of-the-art digital and analog circuitry to produce an astounding level of sonic performance with no equal in its price range.
            With features including a digital input for use with a PC, music server or stand-alone transport, optional balanced analog outputs, a fully customized CD transport mechanism, a bidirectional RS-232 port, an IR input for external control, and luxurious industrial build quality, the MOON CD3.3 will provide for many years of listening pleasure and hassle-free use.
            Partnering their new CD player is the Simaudio MOON i3.3 integrated amplifier. Loaded with numerous convenient features and unbeatable sonic performance, the i3.3 provides for unprecedented flexibility. Featuring an options package unheralded in the world of high-performance audio, especially at its price point, available options include (1) an internal digital-to-analog converter (USB-2, S/PDIF & TosLink digital inputs), (2) an internal RIAA phono preamplifier (MM & MC) and (3) a fully balanced line-level input. All 3 of these options are available in any combination, either at the time of purchase or as a future upgrade. Price is $3300 and just $4000 with all the extras (call for prices on individual options).
            To highlight the capability of the new goodies, Simaudio ran hi-res files from a laptop through the digital inputs on the CD3.3 player which was feeding the i3.3 integrated driving Wilson Watts. Folks were amazed at the performance!
            Next up, the new entry-level offerings from Sim, the i.5 integrated ($1200) and CD.5 ($1200). Basically a lower powered version of the i1 integrated, at 40 watts per channel the i.5 offers the same smooth, refined character that we’ve come to appreciate from Simaudio gear, ditto for the CD.5 which borrows heavily from the CD-1.
            Not new, but fabulous nonetheless, the LP-5.3 phono preamp continues to impress. At $1500 I think it’s a bargain. Add the optional PSX-5.3 outboard power supply ($1250) and prepare to be amazed.      The Absolute Sound recently published their very first Buyer's Guide (issue #187). Instead of listing all the numerous brands and models in the marketplace, they simply listed what they felt were the best available. Both the MOON LP-3 and MOON LP5.3 made their short list of Phono Preamplifiers. As well, the MOON CD-1 Disc Player and MOON i-1 Integrated Amplifier were included. Finally, they created a section entitled "Cost No Object", also by component, where no less that 3 MOON Evolution series components were recognized: the MOON Andromeda CD Player, the MOON P-8 Preamplifier, and the MOON i-7 Integrated Amplifier.      

ORTOFON: We've recently brought in the wonderful cartridges from Ortofon. This highly respected manufacturer offers a broad range of exceptional cartridges spanning the gamut from moving magnet designs to and both high and low output moving coils. Pick a price point and you’ll find a model offering both terrific performance and outstanding value.
            You've no doubt read the incredibly positive reviews of the Kontrapunkt range. Paul Seydor in Absolute Sound issue 137 writes that the Kontrapunkt B is "...a cartridge of unusual precision, refinement and delicacy, with utterly natural detail and unobtrusive transparency. It does virtually nothing to call attention to itself and has good layering and a soundstage that always seems appropriate to the source."
            Just released, the Windfield MC represents Ortofon's flagship and is named in honor of long time designer, Per Windfield. It's a really special cartridge, and a favorite of Stereophile's Michael Fremer, who writes: "It's one of a handful of the finest cartridges I've ever heard, and it's easy to recommend, regardless of your musical taste or associated components."
            A new range of moving magnet cartridges, the M Series, has been wowing listeners with their amazing performance and value. I’ve been particularly impressed with their dynamics and overall tonal balance – not too bright, nor too warm. There are four "M" Series models priced from $99 to $669.
            On SoundStage! we read: “The 2M Black is a contender for those seeking a high-quality moving-magnet cartridge. Well done, Ortofon, well done indeed.” From a review on Positive Feedback on the 2M Blue: “No other moving magnet cartridge I've ever heard in this price range delivers more—and I've heard just about everything.”
             We're really excited about the Ortofon line and think you will be too. Call us for special introductory pricing on all models!

AUDIENCE: New here is the Wavemaster, a switchless (tapped transformer) pre-amplifier with features such as active or passive operation, 4 inputs/2 outputs, headphone output, aR-T power conditioning, and full remote control. Projected retail - $10,000 - $12,000.
            The Wavepower is a Class D switching analog power amplifier (100w/8ohms). The Wavepower is not just another Class D amplifier; it is and all-out attempt at building the most natural and musical amplifier, period. It has a switching power supply with an Audience designed proprietary discrete component front end and aR-T power conditioning. The Wavepower amplifier design exhibits the best characteristics of both solid state and tube designs. The left and right channels are uniquely mirror images of each other and offered in silver or black. Projected retail - $9000 - $10,000 per pair.
            Audience announced the introduction of the latest in Adept Response power conditioners, the aR2 and aR2-T. The new two outlet conditioner will be available in two versions, a standard and an ultra high resolution “T” version with Teflon capacitors (everyone has flipped over the performance of the Adept Response units with Teflon capacitors!). Prices have yet to be determined.

Page  1   2   3   4   5