HARMAN’s Mark Levinson Celebrates 40 Years Of The World’s Best Audio Systems With Introduction of The 40th Anniversary Collection At CES 2012

Antelope Audio has just introduced two new colors for the front panels of its premium Zodiac Gold 384 kHz USB DAC (€2995). Antelope's flagship DAC is now available in Noir (deep black) and Natural (pure aluminum) finish, to match the aesthetics of every audiophile set-up. Antelope's proprietary 64-bit Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) and Oven Controlled Clocking is claimed to bring significant benefits to the detail, dynamics and stereo placement of the audio. Zodiac Gold features balanced via XLR and unbalanced via RCA analog inputs and outputs, two each S/PDIF and TosLink optical inputs, AES/EBU input and de-jittered S/PDIF and AES/EBU outputs. There are also two switchable impedance HP amplifier outputs, a word clock input and a high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity. The proprietary, custom USB chip performs a sampling rate of up to 384 kHz, and works with native drivers allowing a rapid multi-platform plug and play, requiring no driver installation.

09 / 27 / 11

Tannoy, one of the oldest and most prestigious audio brands in the world founded as the Tulsemere Manufacturing Company back in 1926, has announced their new VXP powered speaker line. The name Tannoy originates from a solid-state rectifier invented by company founder, Guy Fountain, made from an alloy or mixture of Tantalum and Lead. This Tantalum-Lead Alloy was the basis of the now world famous brand name of Tannoy. The VXP like features Tannoy's dual-concentric drivers and includes the VXP 6, VXP 8 and VXP 12. Conceived, engineered and built with precision in the United Kingdom, VXP Series represents a brand new evolution in Tannoy's core philosophies in self-powered loudspeaker design. Tannoy VXP series combines the technological refinement of the passive VX series yet uses the new IDEEA integrated power module from Lab.gruppen. The result is a compact, ultra-reliable and efficient, self-powered loudspeaker. The VPS 6 and 8 may be perfect for home computers and where a powered monitoring is necessary. The VXP 12 is for those seeking the legendary Tannoy 12" dual-concentric sound. The heart of the IDEEA module is a patented Class D output stage capable of high power levels with very low distortion and minimal current draw - all with a net operating efficiency in excess of 80%. A universal switching power supply accepts any mains voltage through the appropriate IEC cord. Audio connection is via female XLR and power via PowerCON (included) on rear panel. VXP 12 is available in black or white textured paint finish as standard, with matching grilles, and is also available in custom matched RAL colors as an option. Enjoy the Music.com has reviewed the Tannoy Dimension TD12 loudspeaker.

XTZ, with a network of engineers, technicians, manufacturers and producers all having long experience from the hi-fi business, is now shipping their Room Analyser II and II Pro. The Room Analyzer II is a simplified version optimized for regular users who are not too deeply versed in the measurement but still want to measure sound equipment. XTZ has optimized it to be as easy and user friendly as possible. Improvements include a better microphone and sound card plus an advanced SPL meter. The Pro version also includes tone generator (pink noise, white noise or sine sweep), bass alignment (showing delay of subwoofers in milliseconds) and 12ppo high resolution. Users can analyze their system via a plotted curve showing the average frequency response of the room. "Found Room Modes" gives information about the found problems and what countermeasures to consider. "Stimulus EQ" allows simulation of an equalized system with suggested frequency adjustments. A spectrogram 2D waterfall diagram shows the room reverberation time to easily find problematic areas in the low frequency band. A real time analyzer (RTA) displays the frequency response in 1/3 octave resolution. There is more features and benefits, yet see their website for further details. Enjoy the Music.com has reviewed the XTZ Sub Amp 1 DSP and XTZ Room Analyzer.

09 / 26 / 11

 Velodyne, a leading manufacturer of powered subwoofers, has introduced the new Digital Servo-10 (DS-10) subwoofer ($1999). This is a very sophisticated, self-incorporated system that delivers accurate, powerful bass using Velodyne's Digital Drive room management technology. The DS-10's cabinet uses furniture grade satin black finish while the driver uses a massive 19.3 lb. magnet structure, die-cast aluminum basket all powered by a 1250 watt RMS (3000 watts dynamic Class-D amplifier. Velodyne's drive is made with a stiff Kevlar-reinforced cone and 3" dual tandem multi-layer voice coil. Velodyne's patented Digital High Gain Servo system corrects cone movement almost 16,000 times a second to lower distortion to well below audible levels (less than 1%). The Digital Servo-10 subwoofer features Velodyne's Digital Drive room management technology to overcome anomalies in typical subwoofer frequency response due to a room's shape, size and features. Just place the included microphone at the desired listening position and press the EQ button on the remote control and the Digital Servo-10 sub will correct for bass interactions caused by its position and your room itself using its eight bands of EQ. Additionally, Velodyne's Digital Servo-10 subwoofer can be used in the manual mode using Velodyne's Digital Drive room management technology. This allows the subwoofer's in-room frequency response to be measured using a calibrated microphone and viewed graphically on any standard TV. The on-board 8-band digital graphic/parametric equalizer can be used to optimize the subwoofer's performance for any position in any room. The Digital Servo-10 also offers complete control over filter frequencies (both subsonic and low pass crossover), slopes, phase and polarity, which allows perfect matching of the subwoofer to any speakers in any environment. A remote control comes with factory presets for different music sources and movies. Presets can be changed to maximize the subwoofer for music, movies or games; switch to the neighbor-friendly "Night" mode; adjust the crossover; or simply change the volume and the front panel LED read-out responds to verify your action.

NewClear Audiohas just released their new NC1000L ($2600) amplifier after several years of research and development. This stereo (dual mono) amplifier is rated at 500 watt per channel into 8 Ohms (1000 @ 4 Ohms) using the B&O ICEpower modules and a very special Lundahl input transformer. This is a true dual mono design including power supplies. Inputs include both balanced via XLR and unbalanced via RCA. Internal cabling is silver plated copper in Teflon from DH Labs. Selected parts were cryogenic treated. Dynamic range is 120 dBa, frequency response is from 5 Hz to 45 kHz (-3dB) and total harmonic distortion plus noise is < 0.1%. Dimensions are 14.25 x 16 x 4.25 (WxDxH in inches) and overall weight is 26 lbs. The NewClear Audio NC1000L chassis is made with 14 gage steel with durable powder coat finish. Aluminum billet face plate with brushed anodized finish plus black film, stainless steel fastening hardware countersunk for a sleek clean profile round out the chassis.

09 / 23 / 11

 HDtracks now offers the amazing sounding Tori Amos' Night of Hunters in 24-bit/88kHz digital download. This popular 2001 Deutsche Grammophon title is Tori Amos’ 12th studio album and has a unique sound different than any of her previous records. Recorded entirely through acoustic means, relying on her vocals and classically trained piano skills, her new album is turning heads with its classical sound. Tori describesNight of Hunters as "a 21st century song cycle inspired by classical music themes spanning over 400 years". Paying tribute to renowned composers like Bach, Chopin and Schubert, Tori tells the story of “a woman who finds herself in the dying embers of a relationship” while still maintaining her signature vocals and lyrical poetry. The success of her first two singles, "Carry" and "Shattering Sea" have built up a great deal of buzz for the long-awaited album out now!

Mr. Labs proudly announced their Vera phono preamplifier ($1490 plus $890 for high performance power supply option) for today’s high performance MC cartridges. The Vera features a fully balanced floating current input stage connecting directly to the tonearm wire of the turntable to preserve the integrity of the cartridge output signal. The Vera 10R is for use with VPI brand Scout, Scout II, Scoutmaster and Classic. The Vera 10F is for use with VPI's Super Scoutmaster, Aries, and HR-X. In addition, Mr. Labs also offer the Vera 10X, which can be used with any turntable having a tone arm cable terminated with balanced XLR connectors. The current VPI tonearms have a LEMO plug at the end of the tonearm wire. Thus a LEMO socket is provided at the top of the junction box as a short run of premium quality Teflon-insulated silver wire connects directly to the input stage of the Vera 10 MC preamplifier. In this way, the delicate signal from the cartridge arrives entirely intact at the input of the first stage. Since every moving coil cartridge is a balanced source intrinsically generating an output current as soon as its output pins are connected to each other in some way. The tiny output current (some tens of micro- amperes) flows into the fully balanced floating input of the TRIC input stage which is insensitive to hum pickup and electro-magnetic interference and is transformed to a reasonably high voltage. The TRIC stage is the perfect load for a MC cartridge and allows each and every correctly designed MC cartridge to develop its full potential. The topology of the TRIC input stage warrants an extremely low noise operation. So naturally the Vera 10 MC preamplifier is a dual mono design with each amplifier board hand-built using selected components of the highest quality. All resistors are Vishay CMF extremely low noise metal film types with 50 ppm temperature coefficient. Critical complementary resistor pairs are hand selected to match within 0.1%. The capacitors in the RIAA network are WIMA polypropylene film and foil types, hand selected and matched within 0.1%. The electrolytic capacitors are Panasonic FC long-life, extremely low impedance types. Load and gain can be adjusted to properly mate to virtually any modern cartridge.

09 / 22 / 11

  To provide excellence in customer service, DaVinciAudio Labs now sells directly to customers from Switzerland, Lichtenstein and the European Union. According to the company, "Music is an art – Our mission is to bring the credibility and intensity of reproduced music in your home. To listen intensively music can fascinate, touch, relax, motivate, inspire... and they say even heal." DaVinciAudio Labs gives great attention to detail, employs a completely unconventional transformer-coupled circuit design that sets their products apart from the mainstream. Their products are manufactured by hand to order in Switzerland and shipped directly to the customer. Customers desires an even higher level of attention can choose to have company representatives come directly to their home for truly professional installation. Without any obligation to buy and no time constraints, interested customers can visit the VirtuCorner Allmendingen b. Bern, Switzerland, to listen DaVinciAudio reference system. Appointments can be made by calling +41 78 823 88 82 or e-mailing from the DaVinciAudio Labs' website. As an added benefit, part of travel expenses to their Switzerland location will be credited with the purchase of a component.

09 / 21 / 11

 Penaudio, founded by Sami Penttilä who always greatly appreciated the quality, originality and naturalness in life, has their new Sinfonia large floorstanding loudspeaker. As the founder has said, "I want people to chose Penaudio not for it's brand but for it's quality. After that Penaudio means quality to them." The Sinfonia floorstander is a 3.5-way reflex loaded design. The drive units are a 29mm textile, ferrofluid cooled dome tweeter with hexadym magnet system. A pair of 160mm magnesium coned midrange/woofer drivers have copper rings above and below T-shaped pole piece and are radial reinforced via rubber surround. For the lowermost frequencies, a pair of 260mm paper coned woofers with 4 layer voice coil are used. Internally is Jorma Design wiring, the drivers are Seas custom/excel, speaker binding posts are WBT-0705 Ag, the crossover uses SCR polypropylene capacitors and Graditech air-core inductors. Crossover frequencies are 80, 200 and 4500 Hz. Overall frequency range is from 30 Hz to 30 kHz (+-3dB) with a sensitivity of 87dB/W/m. The nominal impedance is 4 Ohm, so those purchasing these units should seek out higher power amplification with a minimum of 50 watts. Dimensions are 180 x 1780 x 540 ( (WxHxD in mm) and weight is 150 lbs. The Penaudio Sinfonia cabinet is made with custom birch plywood 19mm/22mm MDF and is connected to the floor with Cold Ray spikes.

Chord Electronics Limited, founded in 1989 by John Franks who had previously held Directorships with Astec, the world leader in high frequency power supplies, Raytheon and AT&T, is launching their new Chord SPM5000 Mk II amplifier and Chord Red Reference Mk III CD player. The Chord SPM5000 Mk II is in response to demands for a larger amplifier. Chord re-engineered the original SPM5000 using the latest low distortion amplifier circuitry with the company's proprietary lateral structure dual-die MOSFETs. The SPM5000 Mk II produces 560 Watts and is able to drive extremely difficult loudspeaker loads with a mere 0.05% distortion into 8 Ohms (1020 Watt RMS per channel into 4 Ohms). Frequency response is from 0.2 Hz to 46 kHz and an SNR better than -103dB. Inputs are via balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA with an impedance of 100kOhm. The Chord Red Reference Mk III CD player (pictured) is the company's latest update to their full sized CD player range. This update changes the disc loading mechanism to incorporate a geared motor drive. The door open and closes seamlessly at the touch of a button. Additionally, USB technology has been added to provide asynchronous 24-bit/192kHz input for use of the internal DAC to playback high resolution music stored on a computer. With internal 176.4 kHz upsampling data transfer, selectable RAM buffer clock retiming and now 18000 tap length filtering, the RED Reference Mk III earns its reference status in the Chord range.

09 / 20 / 11

  Italian audio company Audel has their new Audamp Class D stereo amplifier and Nika speakers (€416 and €520 respectively). These units hope to reach the youth market, yet is great for adults who desire the lovely natural wood finish. Stylish Italian finish ensures this classic beauty will look wonderful in many home decors. The Audamp is a stereo, two input Class D integrated unit that produces 50 wpc. The Cabinet is made with laminated multilayered birch wood that is finished with beeswax. It has a 6 Ohms output, frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a signal to noise ratio of ≥90dB with a THD of ≤0.2%. The Nika small monitor uses a 3" full range speaker. Cabinet construction is the same as the Audamp to make a perfect match for system use. The fullrange 3" driver uses a ALUM/MG cone with Santoprene surround. Overall frequency response is from 60 Hz to 20 kHz, sensitivity is 86/dB/W/m and impedance is 8 Ohm.

09 / 19 / 11

  Online retailer Red5 offers their new Zumreed X2 unique hybrid headphones (£119.95). While at first glance these may just look like a pair of super stylish headphones, but they are said to be "revolutionary hybrid headphones that act as either headphones or speakers. The Zumreed X2 offer good sound quality plus reduce outside noise interference due to the cushioned ear cups. These unique headphones can let you play your music for everyone to hear via a flick of the switch. This will enable the outside drivers. Users can rotate the ear cups so the headphones stand upright on any flat surface. The speakers are powered by a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery via USB, and when fully charged will give you 4hrs play time. There is no charging necessary for normal headphone use. Red5's Zumreed X2 hybrid headphones are made out of a glossy high quality plastic and come with gold plated 3.5mm and 6.3mm gold plated stereo plugs. The 40mm dynamic drivers are are 104dB sensitive and have a frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Impedance is 32 Ohm and overall weight is 347 grams.

Bob Carver's new vacuum tube amplifier company designs and builds high quality units for audiophiles. These are hand assembled units that use high quality components and are connected via point-to-point wiring so as to last a lifetime and be serviceable 50 years from now. The first two models from Bob Carver are the Cherry 180 (VTA180M, $7400 per pair) Black Beauty (VTA 305M, $12,900 per pair). Bob Carver's Cherry 180 is conservatively rated at 180 Watts rms into 8 Ohms whilst the Black Beauty is 305 Watts rms. Each amplifier features a high impedance input, an automatic DC restorer circuit, a "set and forget" bias adjustment and low idle current which greatly increases output tube life. They have an ultra-wide bandwidth output transformers with interleaved windings capable of "the most nuanced voice as well as huge peak output capacity" according to the company. Selectable feedback control allows the user to change the sound of the amplifier from vintage classical to modern contemporary. A special current feedback circuit allows the amplifier to "listen to the room" via feedback from the speakers acting as microphones (using the law of reciprocity). The room-speaker-amplifier interaction provides a sense of believable ambience and acoustic space that is thoroughly realistic and quite enjoyable. Additionally, the transformer output impedance allows the signal to follow the impedance curve of the speaker system, allowing more voltage to be delivered to the loudspeaker at very low frequencies. Bob Carver's Cherry and Black beauty have a frequency response from 2 Hz to 85 kHz and realistic power bandwidth from 24 Hz to 28 kHz with less than 0.5% distortion.

09 / 15 / 11

 Paradigm, a longstanding Canadian high-end audio company, will soon offer their Shift series of products that includes the A² powered two-way monitor speakers ($279 each in Ash Black) and E1, E2m and E3m earbuds ($49, $99 and $199 respectively). The new Paradigm Shift brand is geared towards a younger audience with flexibility and mobility demands. The the A² benefits from Paradigm's 30 years of research and development. This powered bookshelf/tabletop speaker may be used alone, as a left/right audio system or in stereo pairs with devices such as iPods and other music players, desktop computers, etc. The A² has both a 3.5-mm mini-jack and RCA analog inputs. Wireless streaming is available using Apple AirPlay from iTunes-enabled computers or mobile devices via a convenient rear panel AirPort Express interface. Paradigm's A² is bi-amplified with 100 watts of power per speaker and has a frequency response between 55 Hz and 20 kHz. The woofer features a 5.5" satin-anodized pure-aluminum cone while the tweeter is a 1" pure-aluminum dome. The A² comes in five different finishes including: Vermillion Red Gloss, Polar White Gloss, Gunmetal Grey Gloss, Strom Black Satin, and an Ash Black Grain. For accessories, a custom fit tabletop stand and iPod/iPhone dock (sold separately) will also be available. Paradigm's Shift E1, E2m and E3m are the first earbuds available from the company and are available in black and white finishes. They feature an air tight seal for noise isolation, three sizes of tips for ears of all sizes, a tangle-resistant 1.2 meter cord and a padded travel case/pouch for protection. The E2m and E3m models also feature an in-line remote and microphone that allow users to pause and play music as well as answer and disconnect telephone calls with one easy click. All three models use an 8mm super-neodymium driver and the E1 has a sensitivity of 103dB with a frequency response from 10 Hz to 18 kHz. The E2m has a sensitivity of 104dB and frequency response from 10 Hz to 19 kHz while the E3 has a sensitivity of 105dB and frequency response from 8 Hz to 19 kHz.

09 / 14 / 11

 Proficient Audio GS10 subwoofer and Flagship GL6 dual midrange/woofer monitor join the company's established line of products. The GS10 subwoofer is the company's top-of-the line 10” subwoofer, which has a long-excursion treated paper cone coupled with a 250-watt Class D amplifier. With a frequency response of 28 Hz to 200 Hz, the GS10 can deliver high output with low distortion. To achieve fast and accurate low frequency response, the 10" GS10 woofer cone is formulated with a blend of paper-pulp and a mixture of strengthening materials. The voice-coil is constructed with high temperature fiberglass and SV wire that maximize durability and improve power handling. A large-radius surround controls excursion demands and voice-coil alignment at all drive levels to minimize distortion and maximize power handling. A phase switch provides phase adjustment to ensure optimum coherence with the main speakers. Inputs provided are Left and Right, summed internally and LFE inputs, using filter settings from sources that provide LFE output. Proficient Audio's Signature Series GL6 cabinet loudspeaker has dual 6.5" woofers and a one-inch tweeter all housed in a cabinet with a luxurious 7-layer high-gloss piano black finish. The GL6 uses dual injected molded graphite midrange/woofers that provide a focused vertical output and wide horizontal dispersion pattern. To enhance bass performance, the GL6 uses a bass reflex design with dual flared end port tubes. For high frequency reproduction, the GL6 uses a 1" voice coil diameter silk dome tweeter. Silk is a great material for tweeters since it is lightweight and holds its shape, but remains flexible enough to produce high frequencies with good bandwidth and sensitivity.

Velodyne, a leading manufacturer of powered subwoofers, has introduced the EQ-MAX Subwoofer Series. As the first line of subwoofers at its price-point to feature remote control operation, it has built-in processing that enables users to maximize bass performance with the simple touch of a button. Available in 8", 10", 12" and 15" models (priced from $499 to $900), the budget-friendly EQ-MAX's feature set and advanced technologies combine to deliver high performance bass without the typical complications of system calibration. Velodyne's EQ-MAX subwoofers are easily integrated into any home entertainment systems thanks to the digitally controlled five-band equalizer. Users simply place the subwoofer in the preferred location, place the included microphone in the desired listening area and push the "EQ" button found on the included remote control. The built-in equalizer takes over utilizing Velodyne's Digital Signal Processing (DSP), automatically calibrating the subwoofer to deliver optimum bass performance that is unsurpassed. In addition to the "EQ" function, the EQ-MAX remote control lets users control all of the subwoofer's functions with visible feedback on the front panel. The remote allows users to switch between a number of presets: set the sub to "Night Mode" to limit the output; illuminate the front display of the subwoofer; access phase adjustment to get the best possible match between the subwoofer and speaker system; and mute the subwoofer. The EQ-MAX series is Velodyne's newly designed Class D amplifiers, which feature a switching-mode power supply. As for the drivers, four custom designed "Extended Excursion" speakers were developed by Velodyne with vented pole-pieces that increase power handling and assure long-term reliability and performance. The subwoofer's large, dual layer copper wound voice coils are specifically matched with massive magnets (4.66 lbs to 10.14 lbs) to provide dynamic bass. This series includes an adjustable 40 Hz - 135 Hz low pass crossover that allows the subwoofer output to match any home entertainment system speakers. EQ-MAX's cabinets are engineered using a down-firing ported design, minimizing the audible distortion known as "port noise," while maximizing bass impact.

09 / 13 / 11

  Legendary loudspeaker manufacturer JBL is shipping their S4700 high-sensitivity large floorstanding loudspeaker. The S4700 includes a 15-inch woofer plus horn-loaded tweeter and super tweeter mounted by radial compression driver + horn. The compression drivers are JBL's 175Nd adopted the 50mm tweeter diaphragm and JBL's 138Nd 19mm super tweeter diaphragm. The woofer's pure pulp cone is curved and corrugated while the motor is equipped with a double ring-shaped neodymium magnet. The woofer cabinet is bass reflex and is internally braced to avoid unwanted resonances. The natural wood is hand finished in classic wood color as is expected from JBL enthusiasts. The magnetic circuit to NDD has a two-stage voice coil. Sensitivity is 94dB/W/m, frequency response is from 38 Hz to 40 kHz (-6dB) and the crossover frequencies are 800 Hz and 12 kHz. Premium components are used within the crossover network. Overall cabinet dimensions ate 500 x 1068 x 371 (WxHxD in mm) and each unit weights 110 lbs. Pricing in Japan is ¥987,000 per pair and sales are expected to be quite brisk for this top line model.

Audiophiles seeking high-end receivers with virtually every conceivable technology and network capability may want to check outOnkyo's top-of-the-range network 9.2-channel THX Ultra2 Plus-certified A/V receivers — the TX-NR5009 and the TX-NR3009 ($2899 and $2,199 respectively) that completes Onkyo's line of precision audio-visual products for 2011. Both receiver models include major upgrades from last year, including the use of the latest HQV-Vida and Marvel Qdeo video processors, new DTS Neo:X dimensional surround processing, Dolby Volume, and new streaming internet radio channels. Onkyo receivers continue to offer more internet music options than any other brand in the industry. When it comes to input options, the TX-NR5009 and TX-NR3009 are extremely versatile, sporting eight HDMI inputs and two outputs, plus a full range of legacy analog and digital AV connections. New media connections include an Ethernet port, two USB ports, a Universal Port for Onkyo peripheral devices, and an RGB input for video content from a connected PC. Onkyo also offers an optional UWF-1 wireless LAN adaptor that turns the front panel USB port into a home internet access point. Users can also download and install free applications that turn their Android or iPod touch/iPhone into a full-function remote control to control the receiver. Both receivers are designed to connect to the new generation of user-customized Internet radio stations and streaming music services, including those from Spotify, AUPEO!, Pandora, Last.fm, Rhapsody, Napster, Mediafly, Slacker, Sirius XM, and vTuner. The receiver is also DLNA 1.5 certified; it can interface with USB-compatible portable music devices, such as iPods, and and play music straight off a USB thumb drive. Naturally, the unit can handle a wide variety of audio formats, including FLAC, WMA Lossless, WAV, AAC, Ogg, MP3, and, for audiophiles, Super Audio CD. With terminals for 11 speakers, the nine amplifier channels can be tasked to power a wide variety of front, surround, height, bi-amp'ed, or remote-zone loudspeakers depending on the users needs. Onkyo makes it easy to fine-tune all these speakers by providing the latest Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room-correction and equalization technology, which perfects audio performance regardless of a room’s shape or acoustics. Both receivers use Onkyo's WRAT (wide range amplifier technology) power stages and three-stage inverted Darlington topology to deliver high power with low distortion and high current capability. Audio signals on are refined by PLL jitter-cleaning technology and Onkyo's VLSC contributes to digital-to-analog signal conversion. Separate aluminum panels encase the low-resonance chassis to help eliminate vibration and microphonics. Onkyo’s TX-NR3009 uses 24-bit TI Burr-Brown DACs for each channel and a high-current power supply with large 18,000 µF capacitors and a large EI transformer. The TX-NR5009's amplifier uses a larger high-current toroidal transformer through two 22,000 µF capacitors, with dedicated transformers for audio and video. The digital audio section employs Powerful 192 kHz/32-bit TI Burr-Brown DACs on all channels, coupled to a 32-bit DSP chip.

09 / 12 / 11

Beyerdynamic  is now shipping their T 70 and T 70 p headphones ($699 each) from the company's Tesla line. Both new models utilize these advantages in different ways: the T 70, with a nominal impedance of 250 Ohm, is optimally matching the home stereo system, where, due to its effective functionality, it impresses with an unlimited richness in detail, even at low volumes. Thanks to its low impedance of 32 Ohm, the T 70 p is especially suited for mobile use. Its high sound pressure level allows it to compensate for the fundamental power weaknesses of MP3 players, smart phones and tablet PCs. Both variants of the T 70 are closed, the ear pads completely enclose the ears, which dampens ambient sounds and is experienced as particularly pleasant. Headband and ear pads made of soft velvet Detex textile, a skin-friendly micro velour, have a temperature-balancing effect and a ergonomic fit that allows hours of fatigue-proof listening. Yokes and decorative rings are manufactured from solid anodized aluminum. The ear cups are varnished in a sophisticated three-layer process until they take on a basalt grey shimmer. Like all premium headphones from Beyerdynamic, the two new innovations are also produced by hand at the Heilbronn location. The delivery package includes a practical carrying bag and a specially designed connection cable. With the T 70, the cable is 9 ft long with a gold-plated 3.5 mm jack plug including a threaded adapter for 6.35 mm sockets. The portable version T 70 p has a shorter cable 3.5 ft. long with an angled 3.5 mm plug for easier connection to portable devices. An in-flight adapter is also supplied. The dynamic transducer has a frequency response from 5 Hz to 40 kHz and nominal SPL of 104 dB (1 mW / 500 Hz). Weight without cable is 330 grams.

Antelope Audio's Zodiac high-definition 192 kHz USB DAC ($1895) employs the company's 64-bit clocking technology. The 64-bit algorithm implements Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) and Jitter Management (JM), which are the two 'critical' components invented by Antelope to improve audio quality via clocking. The sampling rate of up to 192 kHz and 129dB dynamic range positions the new Zodiac among devices in considerably higher price range. There are two ultra linear, dual stage headphone amplifiers built-in that have been custom designed for accurate monitoring with a wide range of headphone impedances. The headphones have a dedicated volume knob. The DAC features two S/PDIF, two TosLink optical inputs, balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs plus USB 2.0 connectivity through a custom USB chip. The proprietary USB chip allows a rapid multi-platform plug and play, requiring no drivers installation for OS X, Windows and Linux. In addition, users can download a free Zodiac Control Panel, which is the first desktop applications for a USB DAC. The app is available for OS X, Windows and Linux and allows remote control of the device and a one-click firmware update.

09 / 09 / 11

 HDtracks, a very popular high resolution music digital music downloading site, offers O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack and Donald Fagen's Kamakiriad in 24-bit/96kHz. O Brother, Where Art Thou? is the best-selling T Bone Burnett-produced soundtrack and this is the special 10th Anniversary Deluxe Edition! It features 12 previously unreleased tracks from T Bone Burnett's recording sessions, and thus makes this a double album worth of music. This blockbuster soundtrack of the Coen Brothers’ critically acclaimed film won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2001 as well as for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals ("I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow"), and Best Male Country Vocal Performance ("O, Death"). Featuring performances by Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, Soggy Bottom Boys, The Stanley Brothers and more, the album hit #1 on Billboard’s 200, Top Country Albums, and Top Soundtracks charts. NPR’s All Songs Considered included the soundtrack on its list of "The Decade's 50 Most Important Recordings." Donald Fagen, of Steely Dan fame, album Kamakiriad was nominated for a 1994 Grammy Award for Album Of The Year. As the second solo album by Steely Dan frontman Donald Fagen, it made the top 10 of The Billboard 200 and featured the hit "Tomorrow’s Girls." This 8-song concept work follows the futuristic journey of a high-tech, environmentally friendly car and was produced by Steely Dan bandmate Walter Becker. This high resolution release offers an ideal way to experienceKamakiriad’s immaculate production, complex songwriting, and jaw-dropping musicianship.

09 / 08 / 11

 Anthem's new Statement M1 monoblock amplifier ($3500) produces a staggering 1 kiloWatt (1000 Watt) is the size of a single rack unit. This Class D mono power amplifier is engineered with advanced load monitoring and power factor correction technology to satisfy demands up to 2400 Watt, even when connected to a 120Volt/15 Ampere line. Anthem says their unit is frequency response is load-independent – the difference in response between a 2 Ohm load and an open circuit is only an astounding 0.1 dB. Between 4 Ohms and 8 Ohms there is no change in frequency response at all. The M1 is a true "double-down" amplifier with 1000 Watt into 8 Ohms and 2000 Watt into 4 Ohms, with total harmonic distortion remaining under 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Anthem outfitted the new Statement amplifier with a heat pipe cooling system that allows multiple M1s, with feet removed, to be rack-mounted directly on one another. Anthem’s Statement M1 uses a proprietary load monitoring system. Included in the system is a digitally modeled time constant of the circuit interrupter, something that does not trip the instant its maximum current is reached. Similar to slow-blow (time-lag) fuses and service panel breakers, it is meant to allow momentary current surges which do not last long enough to result in excessive heat. In addition, the Anthem M1 contains active power factor correction to maximize available power. Damping factor is 800 to 1400 depending on frequency.

Bowers & Wilkins has just released their C5 ($180) in-ear monitoring, noise-isolating headphones. The C5 IEM noise-isolating headphones are said to offer pristine sound quality for those on the move. The innovative Secure Loop design keeps the C5 comfortably in place, and aids fit and performance. Plus the proprietary Micro Porous Filter enables the C5 to produce open, natural performance, perfect for longer listening sessions according to Bowers & Wilkins. It also has the advantage of limiting noise bleed, and together with the noise-isolating properties of the sealed fit, this allows users to lose themselves in flawless audio. As with all Bowers & Wilkins products, C5 is a mixture of long-held acoustic principles and technological advances. Almost as vital as performance in the in-ear headphone arena is comfort and quality of fit. C5 addresses this with the introduction of the proprietary Secure Loop design, an ingenious innovation where a cushioned loop fixes quickly and comfortably in the inner ridge of the user's ear. This solution holds C5 in place for improved sound, and also makes it ideal for use on the move and during activities. The Secure Loop is infinitely adjustable, so it works perfectly with virtually anyone's ears. Adding to this sense of comfort is C5's Tungsten Balanced design. Here, high-mass material is located closer to the user's ear, for an improved seal for better sound and noise isolation. Elsewhere C5 is crafted from high-grade aluminum for a premium-quality finish. Bowers & Wilkins' C5 comes supplied with a Made For iPhone compatible cable, which is ideal for making calls on the move, and a quilted pouch for easy storage.

09 / 07 / 11

Wharfedale, founded by Gilbert Briggs in 1933 as a driver manufacturer, now offers their new Jade Series of loudspeakers (from $1199 to $4199 per pair in matte finish) to the United States market. The Jade Series features a complete lineup of home theater and music loudspeakers that utilize the company’s latest acoustic engineering and materials technologies to deliver exceptional performance. With furniture-grade, meticulously crafted enclosures and finishes, the seven models include the Jade-1 and Jade-3 stand-mounted monitors, the Jade-5 and Jade-7 floorstanding towers (pictured), the Jade-C1 and Jade-C2 center-channel speakers and the Jade-SR wall-mountable surround speaker. Wharfedale's Jade Series loudspeakers are designed and built in the International Audio Group (IAG)’s vertically integrated ISO9001 facilities, utilizing computer-aided modeling and precision manufacturing techniques. A Wharfedale acoustic technician individually tests each drive unit and crossover, and each completed loudspeaker is then rigorously tested and certified to Wharfedale’s reference standards. The curved and contoured enclosures are constructed from Crystalam, developed by Wharfedale engineers and formed from laminated wood and composites and created to reduce enclosure vibration and acoustic leakage. Each Crystalam layer is bonded in a manner that allows one layer to microscopically slide upon the other layer, creating a damping effect that eliminates the resonances heard from conventional MDF enclosures. The midrange drivers and woofers are constructed using Acufiber, a newly developed material that combines the responsiveness of glass and carbon fiber with a self-damping woven matrix. The result is a cone material that is said to retain excellent transient response while reducing the coloration that can be caused by cone flexing. The Acufiber cones operate in conjunction with a highly linear motor system, with the voice coil placed in the magnetic field in a manner that allows for balanced push-pull operation and augmented by shorting rings that reduce inductance for clearer and more extended midrange accuracy. Jade Series loudspeakers feature aluminum-dome tweeters with extended frequency response. The drivers are complemented by a phase-linear crossover that was created using computer modeling and measurement techniques to achieve seamless integration. The crossovers are optimized by ear and designed to deliver a coherent and natural sound. Wharfedale's Jade Series loudspeakers are available in four finishes including Black Oak, Vintage Cherry, Rosewood and Piano Black. Enjoy the Music.com has reviewed the Wharfedale Diamond 10.7 floorstanding loudspeakers and a review of the Wharfedale Diamond Monitor by Martin Colloms ofHiFiCritic.

09 / 06 / 11

 TDK, a portfolio brand of Imation Corp., now offers two belt-drive turntables, model ETVT10101BLK and model ETVT20102BLK (€350 each) with USB, plus a wide variety of new headphones. The TDK Life on Record turntable delivers the precision performance, has premium surfaces and features needed to truly enjoy the experience. This advanced belt driven turntable supports both 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback speeds as the "floating" design isolates the platter and needle from external vibrations. An innovative visual 10 bar equalizer is embedded in the gloss black surface while the integrated pre-amp, USB output and included software let you import/convert tracks to a PC in MP3 format. The universal tonearm connection works with virtually all stylus. A new line of premium headphones includes the ST700 (€130) on-ear model developed using high performance 40mm drivers that deliver balanced sound with rich bass and vocals. These headphones are carefully crafted using superior materials and components, yet are lightweight, low profile folding design. Soft touch cushions ensure comfort during extended wear and an acoustic seal for blocking ambient noise. And: the experience is customizable with a 75 cm cable extension cord. For lovers on in-ear monitoring, the BA200 (€200) dual balanced armature were developed for on-stage purposes. While other balanced armature headphones have bass and treble levels that may vary based on the amplifier quality and strength within the audio source, the BA200 headphones deliver an optimized, uniform sound across all devices, peripherals, and amplifiers. Proprietary technology, which includes inline cross over and impedance stabilizing circuitry ensures a listener will always get the same TDK Life on Record signature sound. The BA200 headphones are designed and developed around two professional quality dual balanced armature drivers, with one dedicated to bass, the other to mid/high frequencies to produce optimally mastered bass, mid range and treble for any genre at any volume.

09 / 05 / 11

 Richard Grays Power Company (RGPC) just announced three UPS models designed specifically to provide "AV Grade" reliable back up power and remote AC power management to control critical audio/video components. RGPC also announced the newest model 400 Pro II, which offers 10% greater performance, 40% lighter weight and added AV Systems Grade Balanced "Y" Surge Protection. RGPC UPS' are designed from the ground-up to match the challenges of AC power interruption of increasingly sophisticated home theater and home automation systems. Model UPS 8 is designed for small 800 VA remote AV gear, models UPS 15 and UPS 22 are for 1500 VA and 2200 VA power demands and can be rack, tower or optional wall mounted for greater convenience and installation flexibility. All models have data communications capability, automatic voltage monitoring, power regulation with intuitive software interface and easy installation and are best coupled with all RGPC power delivery purification systems. These new products are a direct result of Jim Pelegris, Electrical Engineer with his proven track record, has become a key member of the engineering staff of the newly merged RGPC/TMI Company. RGPC's new model 400 Pro II benefit users via possible product longer life, low noise blue LED, and a lower maintenance miniature reset-capable circuit breaker. This unit weighs just 18 lbs while maintaining the same amount of high grade copper wiring in its inductor coils. The lower weight is achieved by utilizing the convectional cooling designs of the company's up-market models 600 RM Pro, 600S and 1200C.

HDtracks, a leading high resolution digital music download service provider, now offers Yes Fragile in 24-bit/96kHz and The Rolling Stones Let It Bleed in 24-bit/176kHz! Fragile is the fourth studio album by British prog-rock legends Yes and stands among the band’s greatest and most commercially successful work. Marrying the complexity of classical music (the album includes reworked excerpts of Brahms’ 4th Symphony) the melodicism of pop, and the instrumental prowess of progressive jazz, the record took the recording industry by storm, sitting on the Billboard 200 for 46 weeks and eventually going gold. The Rolling Stones Let It Bleed is their legendary 1969 masterpiece and includes the classics "Gimme Shelter", "Midnight Rambler" and "You Can't Always Get What You Want". The album marks the first appearance of guitarist Mick Taylor on a studio album and features a number of notable guest musicians and vocalists.