MONO and STEREO

MBL new production hall

2012-05-25T12:56:00.003-07:00

MBL is expanding

MBL Audio is going further into the future of customization and specialization of their production line.

www.mbl-audio.com

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com

Lampizator level 4 DAC test review

2012-05-19T11:41:00.001-07:00

Lampizator level 4

The state of DAC’s

Highend audio world is changing rapidly and for sure. Let us for a moment step above the pessimistic views of recession and the down of highend as we know it. In past few years we’ve seen two paths or routes, that audiophile and highend audio movement have rush into. One is Feniks like rebirth and rising of vinyl. There are strong reasons why this phenomenon happened. Decline of CD titles, younger generation beings exposed to the ritual of black vinyl magic, exclusive pressings available only for this media and nevertheless analog sound. Analog and vinyl will stay, but comparing to the speed and potency of high-res digital audio, I’m afraid it cannot hold with the hyper pace and race of digital.

Digital revolution already happened. We’re just experiencing the ripple effects. Time for a joy!? In all of my years being audiophile and highend audio industry observer I cannot recall such a positive movement and variety of products being lunched even in golden 80’s.

Digital is future happening right now. Where it will end if at all? We’re still at the front end of digital refinement and look at all the boom. Once industry hit at least one third of mileage from analog, there will be no looking-turning back. I’m sort of happy and sad at the same time.

Magic and mystification not needed

No need for those. I like to take a pride in thinking and seeing audiophiles as mature and reasonable people, with strong desire for making their systems sings belowed music and music only. All that in the way, that they perceive the reproduction of favorite music. There are apples, oranges and peaches J. And even much more. On the ultra high end level there are some rules and guidelines, which cannot be overseen or avoid. It’s the fact, that you’ll have to pay major bucks to get on the level of ultra highend reproductions. No snobbery, but a fact. When we step down to the real world, things got more then interesting. No need for frustration. There are paths and products promising a lot.

You have been Lampizied

Lukasz Fikus. Who is this guy? Un underground rebellion from DIY

Clan? A sole fighter? Audio artisan?

For those who don’t know Lukasz story, he left good safe job and pursued his venture of Lampizator magic. Passing from rebuilding and upgrading CD players Lukasz Fikus stepped on the ladder of DAC manufacturing. Somewhere along the way he’s cough almost legendary status. Let us explore the universe of Mr. Lampizator with his DAC Lampiztor level 4.

Aesthetics

From pictures on the web, you’ll might not get the right impression about the appearance of Lukasz DAC. Like my Lamm LL2 preamplifier, Lampizator Level 4 black anodized and brushed front plate resemble a timeless simplicity and elegance. While I’m still sucker for Kondo, Burmester, DalbyAudioDesign etc. appearance, there is something classy about minimalistic black. It just blend well in space and give that Odyssey 2001 feeling of space, time and continuum. On the front plate you’ll find famous Lampizator logo with on/off switch on the place of letter o. Red O ring looks mighty and the absence of blue is welcome change J.

Which level you’ll go?

Currently there are 5 levels of Lampizator, that one can order. This system of upgrading resemble Audio Note UK philosophy. One’s demands is matched by the sophistication and funds available. For my test Lukasz provided one step below his two chassis reference level 5 DAC. Version under review incorporated sole SPDIF digital input. So any CD, computer card, music center etc. with this output is a welcome partner. I tried Lampizator with CD players, computer cards, music player and with Bluetooth module with SPDIF output. In this review I wont go into details and under the hood of Lampizator DNA. So much have already been written and discussed about Lukasz Fikus creations and the way he's combined his art of electronically assembly.

For this review I’ll focus on what is most important and what most of you requested. How good does this black box sound and where its place among other DAC’S.

Battle of giants

Antelope Zodiac Gold, Burson Audio HA-160D and Kingrex UD384 +U power were in constant rotation as my digital front ends in the time of review. How intriguing and both satisfying is this quiet revolution of DAC’s. So many choices and variety of different characters. I would avoid general terms of digital being void and general in sound. Those times are long passed by. We might not like the digital vs analog, or have our own certain perception of sound, but something is happening in DAC market and present movement promises a lot.

Kingrex UD384 is fast, ultras specs and affordable. Having so much sound for so little would be illegal few years back J. Burson HA-160D is an established and recognized headphone amplifier, preamplifer and DAC with it’s own stand out character. Very warm, musical and life like. Zodiac Gold Dac from Antelope shows its professional audio roots. Resolution, timing, sense of space etc. Very good and impressive.

Ladies and Gentleman. It’s time for Lampizator Level 4. Instantly Lampizator brought out the resemblance of vinyl in my set up. My system is very linear with Acoustic Preference Maestoso 2.0 speakers being a crystal clear window into the musical world and reproduction of audio. As few of my friends and hard core audiophiles commented, this is a full revelatory combination of gear. Any character of component under a review is instantly thrown at your face without a mercy. I’m building my third system in more romantic kind of way, but for critical listening I cannot afford to be in the muddy waters.

As Lampizator Level 4 DAC incorporate tubes, it might be a bit warmish at certain system. It all depends on synergy and combination of gear. I’m the fan of direct, fully dynamic and right in your face (and sublimely body) sound. The same impact I’m experiencing in studio or with life music. No restraints. I need the level of horn impact with the delicacy, intimate and bloom of dynamic speakers. This is where my levels of audio nirvana match.

These days it doesn’t really matter that much using tubes or solid state. When engineered and implemented correctly, both approaches can give out similar results. I might be still biased toward the tubes, but there is a constant strong fight between my left and right brain hemisphere. Rational and emotional boarders crossing battle. No clear winner.

It’s and art and experience to match those two and still came out as both passionate and rational. Perhaps those things combined do create a cultural imprint, which we all strive to achieve in some sort when reviewing and testing certain products.

Lampizator Level 4 DAC took the least of my efforts to like digital. Switching from my reference turntable with Zyx Omega X cartridge and Tom Evans phono preamplifier, a difference was noticeable, but more subtle that I expected. Without going into the strict details of digital audio and my so-called measuring and valuing system, my guts and hearts (all of them) were won by Fikus creation continuously in my listenings. Within my demo system, this was the closest match to analog I experienced so far.

HD Tracks Getz/Jobim classical high-res download is a fine example or analog rendering and great test track for comparing digital to Verve vinyl release. Lampizator performed way beyond of typical DAC analog rendering. This is Level 4 DAC's strong advantage. One of my favorite albums and a constant vinyl on my turntable is ECM's Pat Metheny Group self titled album. What an excursion of poetry and melodic. It is still as fresh as it was back in 70's. This is very demanding album for every crucial system and listening. Rides and hihats can quickly become harsh and freetless bass loose the impact, tone and energy very quickly within non balanced system. Lampizator nail the "Jaco" quite remarkable. There was a sense of pace, impact and motion of what always capture my inner rhythm on original vinyl pressing. Remarkable for digital.

There are still noticeable differences between Lampizator Level 4 DAC and analog reply. In my notes, sometimes differences were bigger sometimes smaller. However we turn around our so-called perfect ears and judging audio system, we’re still a subtle creatures. Everything affects us. So different moods puts us into the various states of mind and listening perception. This is where experiences, multiple listening’s and audio mileages must kick in. Otherwise everything is just uncontrolled flow of different impressions influenced by so many factors. Anyhow. Lampizator is narrowing the gap between analog and digital as no other DAC, that I had chance to listen.

When I draw a red line and sum everything, Lampizator Level 4 DAC affected me like no DAC so far. There is still something darn life like with analog vinyl replay and its not just a matter of ritual. Lampizator brought remembrance of those fine qualities and connected me into the music with fewer artifacts of digitalis.

Right track

All the fuss on the net and in the audio forums about Fikus are on the right track. Lukasz managed to do something right and many audiophiles found their destination already with Lampizator DAC’s.

Level 4 DAC is not exactly affordable. There is no bling enclosure, meters or space light. Just well thought engineering and “fine-tuning.” It might not be the right cup for everyone and that's fine. For those in search of analogue like qualities in DAC, do not overlook Lampizator. Be careful in selection of components and system synergy to avoid frustration. With devices of such calibre great match is a must to avoid frustration or

Analog challenge

Lukasz Fikus challenged me and he succeed in winning my attention and heart over. So far this is the most analog like DAC, which came across Mono & Stereo headquarters. Highly recommend!

Matej Isak

owner/writer

www.monoandstereo.com

Sonus Faber new speaker. Aida mini?

2012-05-18T06:38:00.002-07:00

Sonus Faber new upcoming speaker

There were quite some rumors circling at Munich 2012 highend audio show about upcoming new speaker from Sonus Faber. Like it or not Sonus Faber is an industry leader when it comes to the speaker design and market impact. As it seems, this speaker line will be much cheaper, then most of the people from audiophile society expected. Price shouldn't go over 3.000 EUR. Like many highend audio companies Sonus Faber will also bring down the technology from Aida to consumer level. We'll see how will this reflect in new models, but knowing Sonus Faber philosophy I can fairly assume, that there will be both monitor and floor-standing models announced in this upcoming "strip down" Aida line.

After hearing Aida at Munich show this year, I'm confident, that they'll revealed something unique and and make it special. Both Sonus Faber Guarneri Evolution and Sonus Faber Amati Futura didn't warm my audiophile blood at sky high levels or boil it to extreme as you might already read in my Franco Serblin test. On contrary Aida made my hair stand up. Cannot recall when, that happened in past few years.

Some misunderstood my writings and Franco Serblin Accordo test - review. I owned quite some Sonus Faber speakers over the years and invested quite large funds into their different models. Being wrongly biased might not be the right word. Some of hard core Sonus Faber (then again I'm also one;)) owners and enthusiasts misunderstood my output. There is a way to respect something dearly and not being crazy about everything being manufactured or produced from the particular company under the scope.

For my third system Sonus Faber Elipsa Auditor speakers are on the way and they should arrive next week. Look forward for my Elipsa's and upcoming Aida "mini" beauties. Stay tuned for first insights and test soon at the pages of Mono & Stereo.

www.sonusfaber.com

Matej Isak
Owner/writer

Munich 2012 high end audio show Transrotor interview

2012-05-17T05:22:00.001-07:00

Audio (video) interview with Dirk Räke - Transrotor

Audio - video interview with Dirk Räke from Transrotor at Munih highend show 2012.

Matej Isak

Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester

Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester

Dan D'Agostino special event at Munich 2012 high end audio show

2012-05-16T07:20:00.002-07:00

Sonus Faber Dan D'Agostino special event at Munich 2012 high end audio show

Short video from Sonus Faber Dan D'Agostino special event at Munich 2012 high end audio show. Dan talks about the process of making of Momentum amplifiers, his current and upcoming products and announcing the lifestyle line later this year.

Matej Isak

Munich 2012 high end video interview with Dan D'Agostino

2012-05-15T01:48:00.002-07:00

D'Agostino upcoming products

Dan talks about his upcoming products. This year he'll introduce phono preamplifier in separated chassis, new life style product with iPad - iPhone integration and his already announced flagship reference preamplifier. We also learned about strict process of manufacturing. Each amplifier is hand build and it takes up to one week to complete.

Dan D'Agostino Momentum amplifiers and Sonus Faber Aida speakers were one of a few highlights and personal favorites from this year Munich highend show. Think Breguet of high end audio when it comes to Dan D'Agostino creations.

Dan's aura is surrounded with positive energy and years of experience. A true audio industry gentleman.

Munich 2012 high end muenchen 2012 show report sonus faber mbl burmester

Munich 2012 high end. Video interview with Tim De Paravicini part two

2012-05-14T14:01:00.001-07:00

Tubes vs transistora, class D in highend, vinyl and analog...

Tim talks about some fundaments of highend audio. He reveals, that it's the speed, that sets tubes above the transistors. It seems, that time is still not right for the class D in high end as we learn from Mr. Paravicini.

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com

Muenchen high end 2012 report Analog Domain

2012-05-11T23:36:00.002-07:00

Beauties and the beasts

It was great to see my friend Angelo and his son in person. Angelo is the accumulation of good positive energy; plus creational one. It's nice to see them work jointly.

You're wondering what makes those amplifiers so special, that cough not only attention of most hard core audiophiles from Hong Kong Audio Exotic, but also their hearths?

Once you see this monolithic power amplifiers in person and understand the philosophy behind you'll be impressed too.

For those who missed my exclusive interview with Angel you can read it here Analog Domain (Angel Despotov).

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com www.myaudioshop.com

High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012 High end muenchen 2012

Munich 2012 high end. Video interview with Tim De Paravicini

2012-05-10T04:40:00.001-07:00

Highend audio legend

Matej Isak interview with legend from high end audio industry, Tim De Paravicini - EAR Yoshino, at 2012 Munich high end audio show.

www.ear-yoshino.com/

Mono & Stereo is expanding their listening demo rooms

2012-05-09T14:55:00.003-07:00

Elaborated acoustics

Everything is getting crazy at Mono & Stereo HQ's. This is additional demo room for the needs of testing/reviewing. Elaborated room acoustic text is in the works, to show all the abilities of this dedicated listening facility.

I'm also in the process of adding lab quality measuring system, that will rise the quality of the reviews to even higher-better standards.

The third installment - demo room will be added within a few weeks for testing more affordable gear as many of you requested. Sonus Faber Elipsa Auditor speakers are on the way for this dedicated room and system. Stay tuned for updates.

Thanks for all the support and great feedback about Munich show reports.

Your truly
Matej Isak

Few more pictures of listening space:

Munich highend 2012 report Pernar Audio Germany

2012-05-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

Synergy for Europe

Pernar Audio from Germany brings to the European market the best of well recognized Audio-GD (Class A, Symetric design, Current System and standard voltage system, etc.). Everything, that Audio-GD.com is known for, it will be included in Pernar Audio upcoming products. Pernar Audio will fine-tune everything specific for European market, organize needed for CE Confirmity, German VDE conformity, they will carve the final enclosure design, established new brand and combine everything within the norms of traditional German quality. This practically means only one third of the internals and technology will come from China and rest from Germany. Perhaps even more.

Kristian Pernar the owner of Pernar Audio elaborate further, that Audio-GD will only provide basic PCB's. Everything else Pernar audio will build to their high standards to provide the best quality for German and European market.

Stay tuned for an exclusive European and world premiere of Pernar Audio upcoming products in few months. We'll cover the whole range of their line when ready.

Upon listening to Pernar Audio prototype I can only assure, that this is a company to watch out.

www.pernar-audio.eu/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pernar-Audio/354462244573137
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/PernarAudio
Youtube: www.youtube.com/user/PernarAudio
Email: info@pernar-audio.eu

Munich highend 2012 report Antelope Rubicon DAC world premiere

2012-05-09T02:51:00.000-07:00

DAC - Atomic by hearth

It was great to finally meet Mr. Levin and Georgi in person. Antelope audio presented their Rubicon atomic clock DAC converter, phono preamplifier and preamp. All this incorporated into one box. Certainly one of most impressive DAC designs I have seen so far. Art Deco at it's best. Trust me, pictures don't do this marvel a justice.

Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with designer Igor Levin and we're working on exclusive Rubicon test.

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com www.myaudioshop.com

Munich highend 2012 report Sonus Faber - Dan D'Agostino special event

2012-05-08T07:15:00.002-07:00

Upper echelon

Dan gave the special introduction of his amplifiers in a closed exclusive press event along with Sonus Faber Aida, that only few of us were invited. his. He talked about how much efforts are put into Momentum amplifiers.

No feedback design was plan from the start, but the final version were made at around 5db of gain. Along with the testing and listening this he came up with few unique solutions.

It’s great to hear, that final tuning of the sound were made by listening and not only measuring it. Difference of such method is more then just noticeable.

Preamp wasn’t ready for the show, but he announced upcoming product. Stay tuned for and exclusive video with all the details.

Six to nine people are a steady working for under the Dan strict direction. Everything is build by hand and as far as I’m concerned Dan can be proud of his Momentum’s. For all of us that cherish watches, this is the only true Breguet of ultra high-end. One of the most prominent looking and sounding solid state amplifers.

Dance Macabre was specially chosen and played on the largest EAT turntable by lady, that assist at presentation.

Sonus Faber Aida is as impressive as it looks. This is much larger speaker, then you might think. Aidas were 4 meters away from the back walls and the sound they produced in combination with D’Agostino amplifiers was amazing. Honestly, I might not prefer the sound of Evolution and Futura, but this is completely different league. For the first and last time on the Munich show my hairs stood up by the electricity of excitement while the importer and host of the event played carefully chosen music.

We switched to the digital front end through the Audio Research DAC and enjoyed some natural classical swing vibe and “echtig” Swiss alp horn player. As expected digital sound brought out the dynamic and power even more for the presentation.

What can be said about the sound? It’s on the level of the price tag. Ultra transparent. For such a large speaker Aida never sounded larger then life. Studio recordings were not moved back as it often happens, but as they were. I for sure didn’t expect this kind of revelation. Thanks God for this experience and to Petra and Dan for private invitation. It was a pleasure to meet them both.

Absolare Munich high end 2012 show report

2012-05-07T15:00:00.001-07:00

Italian in disguise

A passion, a style and 845 tubes. International team of designer is a clear recipe for this avid visual and aural connoisseur delight.

Absolare presented actively their PASSION preamplifier and mono blocks. There is no way for pictures to conway the beauty and class of these objects of art. First class auto industry leather combined with non resonant aluminum enclosure's milled from one block of air industry quality aluminum.

Beautiful designed equipment with aura of timeless classics. Think Buggati like inner leather stitching and appearance.

MSB audio and Beat MagDrive Turntable with Reed tonearm acted as front ends with Absolare preamplifier and Monoblocks. This is a US based high company with a strongest pedigre breath of Italian Aura. Very serious design probably my favorite beauty of the show.

Power output was rated at around 50 watts of single-ended class. With two pairs of 845 tubes per channel working their magic.

We’re working on presenting Absolare in an exclusive European test-event this year.

www.absolare.com

Kuzma Stabi M Munich 2012 highend show report

2012-05-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Franc Kuzma new beauty

Kuzma Stabi M with 4 point

Franc Kuzma revealed officially this year his latest turntable Stabi M. Trust me, pictures don't do it a justice. You might get a false idea about the actual size and elegance of new Stabi M. This is one massive and uniquely classical looking machine. Even XL look seems to act smaller with Stabi M on display.

Stabi M have unique feature that will have a remote and it have 3.5 second until start so you won't miss any beat. Impressive. 60kg's. Sides panels will be up to the choice. This is a impressive design with specially designed non resonant cover, that differ from traditional ones. All the cover panels are mounted with a non resonant insert. In this way cover is less of a resonant transducer of standing and air resonances.

Like always Franc Kuzma expertly combine simple, yet when studied in close expertly chosen solution to the ultra high end reproduction of vinyl music. We'll try to schedule for exclusive test of this mighty machine.

To conclude and convey my thoughts; "This is a man machine." An an along future retro!

www.kuzma.si

STABI M

This is a modern turntable designed in a classic turntable style with the emphasis on providing the best possible record playback.

The turntable's size allows even 12 inch tonearms to be mounted and covered with its massive acrylic dust cover on spring hinges . The dust cover is constructed not to pick up any vibration from loud music.

The turntable is assembled from various solid parts of aluminium making the construction rigid and absorbing vibration. On the outer sides of the main structure are solid aluminium plates, which give the turntable mass and further increase structural rigidity and damping.

The covered spikes within the legs allow horizontal levelling of the whole turntable.

The top aluminium plate under the platter, has an elastically underhung main frame and motor system below which is insulated from the outer main turntable's structure via four big elastic dampers, allowing for fine horizontal levelling of the platter and tonearm.

The platter is constructed from two pieces of 40mm thick aluminium with an acrylic damping plate sandwiched between making a very inert support for records.

The bearing has an inverted shaft with a ruby ball which gives precise, low noise rotation to a supporting subplatter.

The main frame carrying the main bearing and massive aluminium armboard, is bolted together from solid aluminium blocks forming a unique damped rigid support.

The motor system: The DC motor itself is specially mounted inside a brass cup and aluminium plate. This motor assembly is encapsulted and suspended inside a massive brass motor housing. Thus the main frame is doubly insulated from the motor system and yet still maintains rigidity, allowing for max torque momentum to be transmitted via the stiff plastic belt to the subplatter. This gives the platter a high torque drive with the positive properties of belt and idler drives, while minimising the negatives one.

The external power supply controls the DC motor with precise freqency and it has very fine speed adjustments. The control panel on the front plate of the turntable has start/stop and speed change functions. The full speed of platter on 33rpm is reached in just over 3 seconds.

Technical data:

Mass 60 kg

Platter mass 12 kg

Platter material aluminium&acrylic

Bearing type ruby ball- inverted

Shaft diameter 16 mm

Chassis/levelling aluminium/yes

Turntable levelling yes

Motor 1 DC ( three phase)

Belt material special

External power supply yes

Speeds 33, 45

Armboard yes

No. of tonearms 1

Suspended special

Dimensions 610x500x290

Finishes black

Clamp yes

Mat yes

Lid yes

Accesories oil, allen keys

Options: armboards

Support Mono & Stereo

2012-05-07T13:19:00.001-07:00

How to support my venture Mono & Stereo

This past few days were crazy. Mono & Stereo is first in the Google ranking with Munich high end 2012 audio show reports and articles. Thanks for all the emails and kind words. Many of you asked how to support me. If you feel you can contribute to my sleepless nights and non paid review efforts here is my paypal account email: matejisak@gmail.com. Thanks in advance to everyone contribution and all the moral support so far. Keep tuned for much more to come in following days and weeks.

Your in music and audio

Matej Isak

Munich highend 2012 offical report day three and four

2012-05-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

Day three.

ATC, Restek, Ortofon

There were short lecture and presentation about the logics of active speaker design. Room was full and people listening paid full attention. Sound from the largest speakers was. We heard few songs from vinyl. Quite an impact.

Burmester

Beautiful display at the booth of one of the most recognized German high-end brands. This is a real luxury brand with the sound that is recognized with audiophiles all over the world. We could hear the new 111 music server and there were a lot of their gear at the static display as well as a remarkable Porche Panamera with built in Burmester dedicated system. Open, controlled sound, but within the limits of the hall room acoustics. 111 music server looks gorgeous and it was nice to see the updated Rondo line. 101 and 102 are now using the same enclosure as higher priced upper level models do. It’s certainly an add on value and even greater looks of already classical design. They show 113 actively in the system. Ipad as a control is becoming a standard and part of integration of so many standard high-end audio.

Chord and Dynaudio

Full-blown system with Dynaudio speakers. Music centers are more and more avidly used in the system integration. One cannot pass the unmistakable design of Chord electronics. Sound was on the safe side. Dynaudio also presented full WV audio integration.

Transrotor

As alaways Transrotor have the largest display. Range was broad from wit priced entry-level model up to the final statement with special floating-cardan. Stay tuned for exclusive interview with Transrotor CEO soon.

Zellaton

Finally a Garrad and Simon Yorke Audio design. Everything under one roof and on one table ☺. Highly priced and highly regarded phono, preamp and monoblocks from Trinity audio. Room hosts played a bit of unorthodox music from vinyl and I actually like the different approach. Loricraft Garrad 401 was gorgeous and Simon Yorke series 9 turntable shined with its minimalistic glory.

Acoustic Plan

Signature blue. This German well-known brand showed their components with large Uwe Meyers Siemens Klangfield. Speaker took almost third of a room. 50’s paper cone feeling….

Wadax Spain

Company showed production line of their speaker their booth. It’s a three way speaker design driven independently in each range.

Both midrange and bass are driven internally by 400 w class D amps and tweeter is driven directly from the Wadax PRE 1 digital preamplifier DAC. Quite unique and I believe first in industry.

Impressive feature is their sample vinyl records. One have to play back this record through PRE1 and record an audio file. By this process Wadax then send back an USB Key with a perfect setting for your system. In this way cartridge is frequency correct and gain balanced. Stay tuned for an European exclusive test soon.

Goebel High End

Unique and uprising Germany Company. One of the few if not only who’re using wood panel driver. Amplification by Audia Flight Italy.

Estelon

Matched with Vitus Audio and Kubala Sosna Master reference cabling. Estelon actively displayed their Z Diamond speakers. This speaker looks like a thing carved by the hand of master artisan. Ceramic speakers finally give some life to Vitus audio.

Dome Phase Posion

I was sure those were Italian speakers. Very aesthetically looking. Coaxial driver is mounted inverse. Interesting logic. Both floor standing and monitors were at display.

Dome Phase is a sub group of Microlab and established in 1988. Dome Phase was created as a higher positioned high-end company in addition to Microlab wider lifestyle products.

Floor standing is 3 way speaker and Monitor speaker is two way. Floor standing priced around 8000 eur and monitor 4000 eur.

We listened to Basalt CD and amplifier Basalt one. Check more at:
www.domephase.com

Analysis Audio

From Greece.

Tassos Hartizis is the owner and designer of the company. Analysis audio produces planar ribbon speakers. Will publish more along with interview soon. Taken from Tassos explanation Analysis produce more definite sound image.

MBL Audio

MBL held a special event with the life presentation with live Cembalo. This is a completely different presentation on the level that everyone should take upon. More of a cultural event, then typical high-end show even.

Music was beyond a typical terms of audio jargon. This is very live sounds meet the reproduction of the music in an audio system. Like with D’ Agostino and Sonus Faber Aida, everything was life like, open, with sense of space, ambient and articulation. The thing that sets everything apart in the ultra high-end audio is the sense of pace, rhythm, pace and especially articulation. There is no overblown size of instruments and atmosphere of event wa slight.

Musical choice was a practical time journey and a delight for connoisseur. A true stand out.

Along with the Dan D’Agostino and Sonus Faber MBL Extreme and reference system was up there in a completely different league.

On the right side there was a smaller new Corona line, that was introduced last year. Very slick looking. White is definitely a new black for quite some time now.

We listened to the MBL 116 F within Corona line. At first it was a few minute adjustment from the top of the line system, but quickly after first song everything set itself. Even on the level of this setup performance was at best. This is without a second guess a high-end.

Like waiting in the line of Rolling Stones concert people were waiting in the line to get their share of beauty and sonic ecstasy.

In depth report and exclusive interview with MBL CEO will follow soon.

YG Acoustic

Day three we returned to hear the bigger Anats and joyfully stumble upon Dire Straits Money for nothing on vinyl. What a pleasure this was again. Completely different experience from the MBL room, but we’re talking dynamic speakers here and yes, I’m the fan of them. Darn good again! It’s hard to set still with such a positive impact. Yoah was as taking the room with his positive attitude.

Tiglon and Glanz

Tiglon audio from Japan showed an impressive array of products with world first usage of magnesium alloy shielding.

Glanz new tonearm 9” inch first then 10” and 12” tonearm. 9.000 GBP.The bearings in The Glanz tonearm are in house and it resembles Da Vinci Gradezza. Counterweight is made with insertion of Tungsten. Stay tuned for in depth review soon.

Absolare

Beautiful designed equipment. MSB audio and TW acoustic as front end with Absolare preamplifier and Monoblocks. This is a US based high company with a breath of Italian Aura. Very serious design probably my favorite beauty for the eye. 50 watts of A class with two 845 per channel! We’ll probably present Absolare in an exclusive European event this year.

MBL Audio Munich 2012 highend show. MBL akustikgeräte event

2012-05-06T14:21:00.002-07:00

MBL Audio event

MBL held a special event with the life presentation with live Cembalo. This is a completely different presentation on the level that everyone should take upon. More of a cultural event, then typical high-end show even.

Music was beyond a typical terms of audio jargon. This is very live sounds meet the reproduction of the music in an audio system. Like with D’ Agostino and Sonus Faber Aida, everything was life like, open, with sense of space, ambient and articulation. The thing that sets everything apart in the ultra high-end audio is the sense of pace, rhythm, pace and especially articulation. There is no overblown size of instruments and atmosphere of event wa slight.

Musical choice was a practical time journey and a delight for connoisseur. A true stand out.

Along with the Dan D’Agostino and Sonus Faber MBL Extreme and reference system was up there in a completely different league.

On the right side there was a smaller new Corona line, that was introduced last year. Very slick looking. White is definitely a new black for quite some time now.

We listened to the MBL 116 F within Corona line. At first it was a few minute adjustment from the top of the line system, but quickly after first song everything set itself. Even on the level of this setup performance was at best. This is without a second guess a high-end.

Like waiting in the line of Rolling Stones concert people were waiting in the line to get their share of beauty and sonic ecstasy.

In depth report and exclusive interview with MBL CEO will follow soon.

Munich highend 2012 offical report day three is on the way

2012-05-06T10:40:00.004-07:00

Coming...

Thanks for all the emails. Report from day three is on the way in hour or two..

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com www.myaudioshop.com

Munich highend 2012 offical report day two

2012-05-04T15:46:00.002-07:00

Long day two ....

Munich highend 2012 offical report day two

Driven by its’s own CD player and two new 501 monoblocks with Kubala Sosna cabling sound and Stella was big, dimensional and with great impact. This is serious system for seasoned audiophile with no budget restrains. Soulution displayed new 530 series integrated amplifier. This is one hefty looking machine. Swiss precision at its best. Refined and open presentation. Very natural sound and with enough air, that would keep the interest of a concertgoer for a long time. Those who prefer a bit of the tube warmness might be in vain, but there was enough of feelings to capture even hard core opposite camps.
Vitus Audio SS 101 and and JM lab

Driven by Sthaltek Opus front end, that bewildered so many of high-echelon Audio Exotic audiophiles. This was a totally different experience then with previous Soulution room. Instantly sweet, actually to sweet. Sound was squashed. I somehow can never connect with the Vitus sound. MAS team agreed on the conclusion. No, this was not a room problem, since it was the same size as down floors. We all wonder how so high priced and renowned amplifier can be in realms of such sweetness and so much hi-fi sounding like.

Raidho Acoustic

First short session we listened Burmester 061 going into Jeff Rowland newly released Aries DAC and powered with the Rowland 625 stereo power amplifier. Later they switched to the impressive, yet reasonably priced Hansen Acoustics turntable and Hansen integrated amplifier. Speakers were perhaps moved a bit to close to the seats, but overall sound didn’t disappoint.

AudioNec and Aurender

Really different looking speakers driven by the AudioNec monoblocks and preamp. It seems streaming is all over the place nowadays.

Nola Grand Reference VI and Canary Audio monoblocks with the Audi Research CD player. Finnaly a bit more of a life with music selection and my favorite Getz – Gilberto So danco samba. In the corner, there were only on silent display Lars Audio amplifiers. We set plans for grand European presentation of this 300b amplifiers.

Kharma

Kharma Exquisite and their monoblocks, streamed through Aurender and directly into DCS Puccini. Preamplifier was also from Kharma. Most beautiful room in the show. Period.

Avantgarde Acoustic

Grande looking and sounding Trios were only on the silent display, but music flow through the Duo’s. XA Amplifier and preamplifier are now in production with some lucky owners all over the world having them in the possession. There was no lack of dynamic in every Avantgarde Audio demonstration. Even Duo’s are room filler with enough energy and mojo to fill reasonably sized listening room.

XA preamplifer and amplifier were actively playing through the Esoteric player. XA series are another aesthetic delight and design achievement.

Reimyo

Almost all the friends we meet on the halls of Munich show, urge me to listen to new Reimyo small speaker.

President of Reimyo discussed the importance of balanced sound and demonstrated their resonance feet for a practial balanced on the Sonus Faber’s.

We heard Reimyo president own production of classical music. It’s great to see passion for classical music being pushed forward.

Tim De Paravinici

We took the video and made an exclusive interview. Stay tuned for it. Talk was about things analog audio and the state of the current high-end audio world. It was such a satisfying feeling to see, that Tim is still a strong supporter of vinyl and tubes. I dare to ask ever-lasting battle between tubes and solid state. Tim shortly concluded, that nothing could be as fast as tube and that solid state doesn’t have the capacity or storage and actual linearity that tube can offers. After hearing some of the rooms in the upper floors this was a pleasant relief.

Ear 861 power amp, EAR 912 standout preamp, EAR turntable and new two-box cd, sacd and usb input player. New media player were very relaxed and in absent of digitalis, but vinyl session was even more delightful. I managed to get to hear Ella and Satcmo on vinyl to full satisfaction. Not to forget speakers was very good sounding small Rockport speakers.

Dan D’agostino Special Event

Dan gave the special introduction of his amplifiers in a closed exclusive press event along with Sonus Faber Aida, that only few of us were invited. his. He talked about how much efforts are put into Momentum amplifiers.

No feedback design was plan from the start, but the final version were made at around 5db of gain. Along with the testing and listening this he came up with few unique solutions.

It’s great to hear, that final tuning of the sound were made by listening and not only measuring it. Difference of such method is more then just noticeable.

Preamp wasn’t ready for the show, but he announced upcoming product. Stay tuned for and exclusive video with all the details.

Six to nine people are a steady working for under the Dan strict direction. Everything is build by hand and as far as I’m concerned Dan can be proud of his Momentum’s. For all of us that cherish watches, this is the only true Breguet of ultra high-end. One of the most prominent looking and sounding solid state amplifers.

Dance Macabre was specially chosen and played on the largest EAT turntable by lady, that assist at presentation.

Sonus Faber Aida is as impressive as it looks. This is much larger speaker, then you might think. Aidas were 4 meters away from the back walls and the sound they produced in combination with D’Agostino amplifiers was amazing. Honestly, I might not prefer the sound of Evolution and Futura, but this is completely different league. For the first and last time on the Munich show my hairs stood up by the electricity of excitement while the importer and host of the event played carefully chosen music.

We switched to the digital front end through the Audio Research DAC and enjoyed some natural classical swing vibe and “echtig” Swiss alp horn player. As expected digital sound brought out the dynamic and power even more for the presentation.

What can be said about the sound? It’s on the level of the price tag. Ultra transparent. For such a large speaker Aida never sounded larger then life. Studio recordings were not moved back as it often happens, but as they were. I for sure didn’t expect this kind of revelation. Thanks God for this experience and to Petra and Dan for private invitation. It was a pleasure to meet them both.

Munich highend 2012 report day two

2012-05-04T15:44:00.000-07:00

Munich highend 2012 report

2012-05-03T15:19:00.001-07:00

In depth report day one

Kuzma Stabi M with 4 point.

Stabi M have unique feature that will have a remote and it have 3.5 second until start so you won't miss any beat. Impressive. 60kg. Sides panels will be up to the choice. This is a impressive design with non resonant cover.

Consonance Audio

This is the brand that grow on much of audiofiles and one of the good values from early companies.

Thiel and Ayre

One of the best jewel like design in audio. With this company you cannot go wrong. Still not overly priced. Beauty on inside and outside.

JBL and Mark Levinson.

How this can be passed. JBL is a long stander and still in strong preferences worldwide and specially in Japan. Project array, everest.

Dr. Feickert

Serious turntables from. Firebird stand out as a sculptural piece. We wouldn't mind having this in our demo room.

Lipinski Sound

Happy sucsess in both pro and audiophile world.

BMC and Vivid Audio

BMC is rising star in high end world. Partnered with famous Vivid audio from the designer that created a legendary Nautilus speaker.

Ayon Audio

Larger then life it seems with its impressive appearance. This Austrian company already concurred larger part of Europe and lately USA.

Fish performance

Cables and audio ladder filters.

This looks rather serious and well designed. We set for exclusive test and review so follow our pages.

Bergmann Audio

Danish minimal at best. Air tonearm and platter are both sitting on the air .

Tim De Paravicini

No need to introduce this gentleman. Classical sound and appearance.

Project and Copland

Only Project offer offers such an array of product. From budget to high priced models. Everyone can find something for himself here.

Esoteric and Teac

Can we get more esoteric then this? Probably not. No hard brainer in what Esoteric excel. Always at steady but safe growth of products.

Auralic

They presented new Taurus pre. With the strong demand from the market, this is a stand alone version of Taurus, but with more inputs.

Auralic Merak

Is a Class D amplifer with class A headphone.

Gemini is a new OTL preamplifer under auralic but with the new name. valvart.

TAD

Evolution E1 is their new speaker presented specially for Munich show. Driven by their DAC, preamplifer and two monoblocks.

What to say. Coherent, natural, lifelike. With all the nuances and this is only small series in their line. A stand out!

Pathos Audio

Italians do it better. No one nails it when it comes down to the purest italian design as Pathos audio. Very natural sound and a bit different feeling, then in TAD room. Perhaps more in the level of neutrailty, but its always hard to pin down the exact feelings under the audio show room conditions.

AMG, Aesthetics, Sumiko

AMG is a turntable to look out and watch. Some serious engineering. Benz Micro rings a bell?

Devialet and Wilson audio Sophia 3

What a sight for the eyes and aural landscape for the ears. White is the new chrom. Even at low volume Wilson Audio Sophia 3 speakers played transparent, vivid, with articulation and sense of pace. Synergy is all in audio and this combo is more, then well paired. Another highlight of the day one and positive forwarding into digital future.

Focal

Spirit one was introduced lately and it seems, that it floods the market quickly.

Grande Utopia EM you'll have to experience in person. This is object of art and the upper echelon of things.

YG Acoustics

Highlight of the day. We all three agreed, that sound was more then just above everything else at show from what we heard first day. It seems synergy with ASR and MSB was on top.

Matej Isak
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www.myaudioshop.com
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www.mi.sgn.net

Munich highend show 2012 report part two

2012-05-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Munich highend show 2012 report part one

2012-05-03T13:07:00.002-07:00

Munich Highend show 2012 Mono & Stereo Matej Isak report

2012-05-01T13:10:00.002-07:00

One day to go

Looking forward meeting you all at Munich again this year. Dear readers and supporters stay tuned for direct reports, new product announcements, interesting articles and exclusive interviews.

We'll be working jointly with MAS this year to bring you more and what's best.

Yours

Matej Isak

Matej Isak Mono and Stereo ultra high end audio magazine All rights reserved, 2012 www.monoandstereo.com www.myaudioshop.com