QUAD: Performing “on stage” in the Quad suite were the 2805 electrostats powered by the all new Classic Integrated Valve Amplifier. Conservatively rated at 25 watts per channel, the design employs two KT-66 output tubes per side driven by two ECC88 and two ECC83 input tubes. The transformers (a critical part of any valve design) are the work of heralded tube designer, Tim DeParavicini. Three line inputs are provided along with a tape monitor and, get this, a MM/MC phono input!
        I was surprised at just how well the amp handled the 2805’s, which can be a bit of tough load, but then maybe I shouldn’t have been, since all previous Quad tube designs have been modest in power output. Sound quality was very good but this was a busy room (both times I stopped by) which prevented any serious listening. Quad has never failed to deliver an outstanding product, so I expect the Classic Integrated Valve Amplifier to be nothing less. $6500
        The new 9L Active Monitor continues the Quad tradition of great sound in a new compact package that is ideal for a broad range of applications. Each speaker is powered by its own internal 60 watt amplifier that has been tuned specifically for these drivers, providing outstanding performance.
        The 9L Active features an internal DAC that allows direct connection to a computer via USB. There is also line inputs via RCA and a 3.5mm input designed to accept signal from a portable device, such an iPod. An IR remote control (included) selects source and controls volume. Finishes include Deep Black, Ruby Red and Yellow Green. The versatile Quad 9L Active can be used as the main speakers for a hi-fi system, high quality desktop computer monitors, in office systems, bedroom setting and as an outstanding upgrade for television speakers. $800pr. Call for introductory specials!

ESOTERIC: The new Esoteric SA-50 has arrived! For the first time Esoteric provides access the wonderful DACs inside the player. Now you can connect your other digital sources to dramatically improve their performance. This CD/SACD player features 32 bit DACs, and a USB input for PCM data streaming and USB signal up-conversion. This allows the SA-50 to function as an ultra high quality DAC for a computer based system or media storage device. In addition to USB, Coax and Optical TOSLINK inputs are included. A precise 32 bit digital volume attenuator enables the SA-50 to be used as a standalone up-sampler, DA converter or digital preamp. This is one incredible machine! $5800
          New for 2010 are the D-07 DAC/Pre-amplifier/Re-Clocker for high resolution audio playback and PC/NAS media streaming ($4800), a new combo unit, RZ-1, that includes an integrated amplifier, accessible DAC (allows streaming), and CD/SACD player, all in one low profile component  (available in March at $6000) and a 14 disc CD/SACD hybrid re-master collection of Wagner’s “The Rings” (early January delivery, $800 - very limited quantities. Order soon as the the Esoteric discs tend to sell out quickly).
          The company’s new E-03 phono stage (Dual phono inputs plus demagnetizing function), has just won a “2010 Blue Moon Award” from www.6moons.com. This is their highest annual award. We ordered a unit for ourselves that should be arriving soon. From what we've heard, this is quite a remarkable product and we're really looking forward to getting our hands on it. $5900

HERRON: As usual, Keith Herron’s room was one of the best sounding in all of CES, and truly an oasis amidst the usual cacophony. Keith uses his own (prototype) speakers, M1 mono amplifiers, VTSP3A tube line stage and VTPH phono preamp as well as cables of his own design. Analog source was the fabulous new VPI Classic turntable (hear one, if you haven’t already – it’s special). The rig produced a non-fatiguing, non-hi-fi sound that was eminently enjoyable.
        Featured was the new Herron VTSP-3A preamplifier which includes a number of upgrades resulting in improved performance and reduced break-in. More details to follow shortly. $6550

PEACHTREE: The innovators at Peachtree audio introduced the iDecco, the world’s first integrated amplifier (40 watts per channel, high current) with a "Pure Digital" iPod dock built right in. The really interesting part is that the iPod dock is "hardwired" directly to the on-board ESS Sabre DAC. Unlike outboard docks (e.g. Wadia i170), there is no interconnecting cable to induce jitter and add expense. Of course the iDecco has a full complement of digital inputs as well, allowing you to connect virtually any digital source and take advantage of its outstanding ESS DAC to maximize the performance of all your digital gear.
        Not only can you hook up your computer, Sonos, Apple TV, but now the iPod can perform as good as or better than most far for expensive CD players. When you consider the Class A Headphone amp, pre out, fixed out, USB, Coax, Optical and analog inputs, it's pretty hard to best the iDecco. A righteous deal at just $799.

Read the iDecco review on 6 Moons Audio

FOSGATE: Shown at last year’s show in prototype form, the new Fozgometer was present at CES 2010 in final trim. The unique unit is something analog devotees have had on their wish list for years – an azimuth adjustment meter.
        Jim Fosgate designed the Fozgometer using operating principles similar to surround processor logic steering circuits. It is simple to use, reads channel separation and channel balance as well as signal direction. All you need is a test record that offers a 1kHz test tone on the left channel and right channel respectively (we have them available for $35). Battery operated for convenience, the Fozgometer retails for $250. Call us for our special introductory pricing!

REGA: Rega’s Cash For Clunkers Program. The wildly popular program that allows you to trade in any CD player – working or not – has been extended! Here’s your chance to save 15% on a Rega Apollo or save 25% on a Rega Saturn CD Player! To get your new Rega player, just send us your old, tired or outdated CD player (any condition, any brand) - working or not!
We'll even include FREE SHIPPING!

Your price on a Rega Apollo is just $845 with trade; the Rega Saturn is only $1795 with trade. Do it now before those Brits come to their senses and quash this deal!

NU FORCE: The latest news from NuForce is the introduction of the v3 iteration of the Reference 9 Mono amplifiers. NuForce’s Jason Lim on the upgrades: “The improvement of V3 is mainly in the design of the control system. V2 was a major "clean up and adjustment" effort from V1. We dared not change the control system in V2 lest we end up with too many uncertainties. V3 has major improvements in the feedback path and overall control to produce a more linear signal across a wider bandwidth (an astonishing 130kHz). Harmonic distortion and noise floor were significantly reduced by approximately 20dB. Note that V3 has lower gain. We think it is better since it can optimize the output of preamp or source. Also you can see that the FR of V3 goes all the way out to 150kHz. In our view, V3 is near perfection (we are perfectionists).”
       A review on Six Moons by Edgar Kramer says it all: "I’ll say it again - get over technology prejudices of class A, class AB, SET and so forth. Get things right and the V3 Reference 9 Special Edition amplifiers will compete with any amplifier you care to mention at any price while running cool and draining very little electricity from your wall socket. Go on, do your bit to save the planet. Your conscience and ears will thank you."

DENON: We're now offering this classic line of high quality moving coil cartridges. From the DL-110 and DL-160 high output moving coils, to the heralded classic DL-103 and hot-rodded DL-103R, Denon cartridges offer outstanding performance and exceptional value.
       About the DL-103R, 10-Audio writes: "Enough words. I have some new, old albums to rediscover on this wonderful cartridge. With the caveat that your mileage may vary, and that I have not heard many of the megabucks MC's out there, I brand the Denon the best under $1,000 cartridge I have yet heard. And what a bargain to boot." An introductory special on all models, so now’s the time to buy!          
        For a limited time, Denon is proud to offer the DL-103SA Special Edition version, which features a 0.2mm square solid diamond stylus with a 16.5 microns round tip, along with ultra-purity 6 Nines (99.9999%) Oxygen Free Copper coil windings. The cartridge’s body is crafted in resonance-free glass fiber composite epoxy for the utmost in fidelity and transparency. As befits its limited edition status, the DL-103SA comes to you securely housed in an elegant, custom-made walnut wood case, bearing the cartridge’s serial number along with a brass nameplate inscribed with the assembling engineer’s name. Next batch due in February - order now to reserve yours. Retail $500, on special at $425.

PS AUDIO: PS Audio debuted several new products at the show, including iPhone control software, PerfectWave Library, PerfectWave DAC with the Bridge built in and the PerfectWave power amplifier (prototype design in a tall, 7” chassis). All were up and running powering a pair of Magnepans.
         The amplifier was fed directly from the Transport and PerfectWave DAC with built in Bridge Media Player. The Bridge was fed from the PerfectWave Library and a pair of Power Plant Premiers provided clean power. Their iPhone app controlled the entire system, including the PWT and PWD and PerfectWave Library.
         PS Audio is working on a PS music NAS (Network Addressed Storage) that is a completely integrated system including copying of your CD’s, organizing your files and all at the touch of a button, to be known as the PerfectWave Library. More on this as information becomes available.

JOLIDA: It’s new, it’s cool and it sounds great! The Jolida FX-10 is a real hoot and will no doubt prove to be a popular unit. Whether for an office, dorm room, table top or entry level system, the FX-10 will provide the sweet, musical tube sound that has made Jolida famous.
        Not only does it sound great, the FX-10 has a host of features to make it convenient and flexible. It’s full remote handset controls volume and selects input. There are two RCA line inputs on the rear for your CD, tuner, phono preamp or any other line source. An additional line input on front panel accepts 1/8” mini plug and can be used to connect a portable audio player. Jolida has included a special cable for the iPod that allows you to use the line output, rather than the headphone output, for optimum performance.
        The FX-10 biases itself automatically, so no user adjustments are required. It's about as plug-and-play as tube audio gets!
        At just $449, the Jolida FX-10 is a remarkable value! Even better, it's on special! Click the Purchase Now button to discover the extra savings!

NORDOST: Although Nordost has always offered matching bi-wire jumpers for each of its speaker cables, but now, for the first time, they are offering a dedicated design that offers exceptional performance along with an affordable price tag.
        Based on a heavy gauge, silver-plated copper micro mono-filament conductor, the new Norse Series Jumpers take a straight-line, low-loss approach to the problem of replacing the bent metal plates or generic wires supplied with most loudspeakers.
        Using high-quality, low-mass terminations, the standard configuration is spade to 4mm Z-plug, although any combination of those connectors is available at no extra cost. Here, simplicity really is the key: replace standard bridging plates with Norse Series Jumpers and hear instant improvement.
        Norse Series Jumpers are supported by a detailed installation guide, which is available as a PDF download from the Nordost site. This outlines and illustrates the various options when it comes to connecting bi-wirable speakers, ensuring that you get every last ounce of performance from your Jumpers. $149

WIREWORLD: The Mini Eclipse 6 is a real bargain! Basically a scaled down version of the outstanding Eclipse 6, the Mini Eclipse uses the same Ohno Continuous Cast Copper conductors, just fewer of them.
         Over the years we’ve come to appreciate the quality, performance and value offered by the Wireworld line of speaker cables. I can’t tell you how many cables we’ve tried in this price range, but none have matched Wireworld cables for performance and versatility. These cables have, what we term,  very low system dependency (meaning they work well in most any system) which virtually guarantees a good fit in your current system, and won’t be out of place as you change equipment.
         At $199 for a 2M pair, the Wireworld Mini Eclipse 6 is a certified steal!