WHAT HI-FI -NOVEMBER 2022

November 2022 ₨150

INDIA'S No.1 HOME ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

HIGH-END SPECIAL! EXCLUSIVE!
Jamo's brand new
Studio 7 series
floorstanders

reviewed

TTHHE BEEBSTEOSF T!OTuurrnftaavboleusr,itTeVksit, swpiethakperriscaenndomobojreec…t.

REVIEWED IPHONE 14

Chord Hugo TT2 with How good is it
the M Scaler is magic! for audio?

Epson LS12000B
4K laser projector



Hello/11/22 WELCOME

The ultimate hi-fi system may be a fools Raheja Xion, 4th/5th Floor, Opp Nirmal Park, Dr B Ambedkar
paradise, but it has never stopped an Marg, Byculla (East), Mumbai 400 027.
audiophile from trying. There’s always a more email us [email protected]
resolving DAC, a more refined amplifier and Call us 022-23787500
loudspeakers that plunge deeper into the lower
registers. It all makes the journey more interesting than the EDITORIAL
proverbial destination. So, this issue is dedicated to the purveyors Editor Nishant Padhiar
of fine audio for whom the price tag is just a minor impediment Deputy Editor Kaizad S Billimoria
to achieving their goal. Our list may not be the definitive list Reviews Editor Khumail Thakur
of the absolute best in each category, but the chosen products Sr. Art Editor Sahaya Johnson
have all left a lasting impression on us over the last year or so Jr. Designer Jordan Patel
and together, can be the endgame to your exploration. From
turntables to phono stages and headphones to headphone amps, ADVERTISING
you’ll find some of the most drool-worthy pieces of hi-fi inside Business Head
this magazine. But what truly opened my ears to a whole new Special Projects & Brand Solutions
world of micro dynamics and transient information was the Sushant Ishwarkar
presence of the Chord Hugo TT2 along with the M Scaler Sr. Manager Aditya Sharma (N)
in our reference system. A classic case of “just when you think Business Development Manager Raunak Sandhu (W)
you’re satisfied with the sound of your system….” and it made Manager Sales Support Sonal Jain
such an impression that Chord will have to pry the duo off Manager Sales Support & MIS Swapnil Walanj
our hands. We also have a comeback story from Scandinavia Sr. Designer Sukhdeep Singh
in the form of the Jamo S27F speakers. Enjoy the read!
PRODUCTION
Nishant Padhiar, Editor Manager Prasad Gangurde

Highlight of the month CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION
General Manager Gilbert D’Souza
Editor’s Pick Distribution & Sales
You will strike gold Head Circulation P Vijayakumar
in your digital music Regional Manager Vimal Sharma
collection with the Manager Saravana D, Ashok More
Chord Hugo TT2 Asst. Manager Tapan H, Yogesh S, Anil Raghav
and M Scaler combo Manager Subscription Mahesh Malusare
Circulation Co-ordinator Rajesh Salian

ACCOUNTS
Finance Head Hital Vyas
Manager Finance Amol Mahadik

INTERNATIONAL
Managing Editor Jonathan Evans
Brand Editor Andy Clough
Managing Director David Prasher
Chief Operating Officer Brian Freeman
Chief Executive Kevin Costello
Chairman Rupert Heseltine
Licensing Account Manager Isla Friend

CONTACT
Mumbai Raheja Xion, 4th/5th Floor, Opp Nirmal Park,
Dr B Ambedkar Marg, Byculla (East), Mumbai 400 027.
email us [email protected]
Call us 022-23787500

Bengaluru No. 811, ‘A’ Wing, 8th Floor, Mittal Towers, M.G. Road,
Bengaluru - 560001. Tel: 080-2559 3775

News-stand price ₨150
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All rights reserved. All the data contained in this magazine is based on the information
available with the publisher at the time of going to press. No part of this publication
may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher makes
every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct. However, he can
accept no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions. Unsolicited material –
including photographs and transparencies–is used in WHAT HI-FI? SOUND AND VISION,
but is submitted entirely at the owner’s risk, and the publisher accepts no responsibility
for its loss or damage. Advertisements are accepted by us in good faith as correct at
the time of going to press.
Printed and published by Hormazd Sorabjee on behalf of
Haymarket SAC Publishing (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Raheja Xion, 4th/5th Floor, Opp Nirmal Park,
Dr B Ambedkar Marg, Byculla (East), Mumbai 400 027.

Printed at Indigo Press (India) Pvt Ltd
Plot No. 1, C/7 16, Off Dadoji Konddeo Cross Road, between Sussex and Retiwala
Industrial Estate, Byculla (East), Mumbai 400 027.
Published at Haymarket SAC Publishing (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Raheja Xion, 4th/5th Floor, Opp Nirmal Park,
Dr B Ambedkar Marg, Byculla (East), Mumbai 400 027.

Editor: Nishant Padhiar

CIN No. U22120MH1998PTC116780
This magazine contains 92 pages including both covers.

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November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 3



CONTENTS

Best of the Best
19HIGH-END SPECIAL
We round up our favourite to turntables, this fantastic kit
gear with money no object. From represents the best that money can
speakers to TVs, amplifiers to DACs buy. We know you’ll be tempted!

OFF THE SHELF

The latest kit reviewed
from the local test bench

See page 59

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 5

FIRST TESTS

Projector | ₨5,99,999

Epson EH-LS12000B

Despite occasional colour wobbles, this is another quality laser projector from Epson

Depending on how this review goes, the E-shift 4K centre; it is protected when the projector from typical projector lamps before you
Epson EH-LS12000B arrives on our test Laser lighting system is switched off behind a pair of automatic need to change them. It is also true that
benches at either a very apposite or a sliding doors. the brightness and picture quality that
very unfortunate moment. 2700 lumens lasers give you will deteriorate much
This projector is not natively 4K in the more slowly than with lamps.
After all, it’s a 4K (kinda) laser The HDMI inputs same way that Sony’s XW5000ES is. The
projector aimed at serious home cinema support 4K/120Hz three LCD imaging devices it uses to Lasers support much faster on/off
fans that costs less than you might video signals from create its pictures don’t actually carry times than regular lamp projectors too,
expect given its level of specification. games consoles 3840 x 2160 pixels each, but rather are and can deliver both more brightness
Which makes it sound mighty similar to Full HD chips that use ‘advanced pixel and more colour range without affecting
the seriously impressive but also shifting’ technology to create a 4K pixel their lifespans than lamps can.
surprisingly relatively affordable Sony density. This doesn’t mean the LS12000B
VPL-XW5000ES. If the Epson can hold definitely can’t deliver very sharp and Picture processing
its own against that ground-breaking detailed pictures that look higher in
Sony, then, happy days. But if it can’t… resolution than HD, but experience The LS12000B carries a ZX picture
suggests the results will not be a detail processor, driving such features as 4K
While the EH-LS12000B and and sharpness match for the frame interpolation for smoother
XW5000ES laser projectors are probably XW5000ES’s native 4K pixel count. motion, a resolution enhancer, and a
each other’s biggest rivals right now, they Scene Adaptive Gamma mode that is the
are not in totally the same price ballpark. The High Dynamic Range support closest Epson’s projector gets to a (basic)
The Epson undercuts its new Sony rival impressively includes HDR10+ as well as dynamic tone mapping system, where
by a tidy sum. Those differences add up the more usual HDR10 and HLG formats. processing analyses incoming HDR
to a pretty big pile of 4K Blu-ray discs or It doesn’t stretch to Dolby Vision, but images to try to optimise their playback
a tidy external audio system before you finding any sort of ‘dynamic’ HDR format to the projector’s capabilities.
have spent what the Sony costs. support on a projector counts as a win.
The LS12000B’s claimed dynamic
Sony’s latest entry-level 4K laser The LS12000B’s HDR efforts should be contrast ratio is a huge 2,500,000:1, and
projector, though, boasts arguably the helped along nicely, too, by a claimed it sports full motorised lens adjustment.
finest image-processing system in the peak brightness of 2700 lumens, even if This includes extensive optical image
projector world and a genuine rather it’s not just how many lumens you have shifting vertically and horizontally, and a
than ‘sort of’ 4K resolution. So the that counts but what you do with them. very healthy x2.1 level of optical zoom.
LS12000B’s job is to get close enough to
the Sony’s performance to justify its The laser lighting, meanwhile, delivers Also unexpected but very welcome on
price, while also out-gunning the new the familiar benefit of 20,000 claimed the LS12000B’s features list is support
wave of less ambitious pseudo-4K laser hours of use before it fades – reassuring over its HDMI ports for the 4K/120Hz
projectors we are starting to see creeping when considered against the 3000- video signals now available from the
in below ₨3,50,000 or so. 6000 hours of life, maximum, you get Xbox Series X, PS5 and high-end PCs. Its
input lag with the quick-response Fast
It’s no lightweight processing mode active, on the other
hand, is slightly high for premium
The EH-LS12000B is a well built, hefty gaming, at 38ms with 1080p/60Hz feeds.
and substantial bit of home
entertainment kit. As we have come to While the LS12000B sports an
expect from laser projectors with serious impressive feature count overall,
home cinema intent, its footprint is unfortunately its on-screen menu
larger than most coffee tables would be system is pretty horrible. It fills the
comfortable with, pointing you towards screen with rather overwhelming
the fact that a projector such as this amounts of text-only choices, and
should be permanently installed in a presents many of its features using
dedicated home cinema room rather non-standard, unfamiliar language and
than kept in a cupboard when not in use. approaches. It is all pretty confusing.

It wears its bulk quite tidily, though, The EH-LS12000B blasts out of the
thanks to an unusual textured black picture quality gates in spectacular
finish wrapped around a body that fashion, though, by delivering some of
rounds-off pretty much any sharp edges. the brightest HDR pictures we have seen
from a serious 4K laser home cinema
A promisingly large lens sits front and projector costing less than five figures.

6 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

FIRST TESTS

This is especially noticeable and It might not have Cinema mode’s combination of high cent level. For us, the fan noise is low
enjoyable with HDR images that fill the native 4K internals brightness and natural, nuanced colours enough not to become a significant
whole screen with brightness. Such but it still supplies looks absolutely lovely. distraction even at its highest level, so
content benefits from much more of an great HDR images we struggle to understand Epson’s
HDR lift than we are used to seeing with The LS12000B doesn’t pull out quite apparent obsession with it.
projectors that don’t cost silly money as much subtle detail from either native
– especially as the high brightness is 4K or HD sources as the Sony There are other setting issues to
accompanied by a wider-than-common XW5000ES but, as hoped, the picture consider or work around, too, but while
colour range that stops even the brightest does look denser and slightly more the LS12000B isn’t the easiest projector
image areas from looking washed out. textured than we would expect it to if we to optimise, most of its foibles are fixable,
were watching a straight HD projector. or at least significantly improvable, with
The LS12000B does not deploy an a little judicious tweaking.
actual dedicated wide colour filter as do Epson’s motion-processing efforts can
one or two projectors we have seen over leave the image looking a little too Swings vs roundabouts
recent years. But its laser lighting system smooth still to feel cinematic, and can
is refined enough to stretch colour cause a few blurring side effects to boot. Many AV fans will conclude that the
beyond that of most regular projectors, Fortunately the LS12000B handles extra brightness the LS12000B can
and retain convincing saturations. motion decently well with its motion achieve with HDR content over the Sony
processing turned off – but if you are XW5000ES makes it a more all-round
While the LS12000B’s black levels someone who finds 24p judder on home enjoyable watch. The Sony’s picture
aren’t quite as deep and convincing as displays particularly difficult to live with, processing, though, is better in a number
those of the Sony XW5000ES, they are this might be an issue for you. of areas, especially when it comes to
still good by the standards of the laser motion and its ‘true’ 4K resolution.
projection world generally. What’s more, There is also something strange going
these respectable black levels are created on with the projector’s Light Output As we said at the beginning, the
against a backdrop of substantially more adjustment; it appears tied in to the Epson’s job is to get close enough to the
brightness than the Sony provides. projector’s fan noise. So, for instance, the Sony XW5000ES to justify its cheaper
Cinema preset sets the Light Output to price, while also outperforming the latest
Crucial adjustments its 50 per cent level, where the influx of cheaper ‘mainstream’ 4K laser
LS12000B’s fan noise is practically wannabes. And in both these respects it
The LS12000B’s handling of dark scenes non-existent. Nudge Light Output up to succeeds brilliantly, delivering in the
does bring us into conflict with the 55 per cent and you can immediately process some of the most straight-up
projector’s sometimes unhelpful hear the fan noise increase, to a level that enjoyable HDR pictures we have seen
out-of-the-box settings, though, and this then stays constant as you increase Light from any projector at this level to date.
is our main gripe with the LS12000B. If Output right up to the feature’s 75 per
you use the Cinema preset, you would
reasonably expect it to be the best for RATING
movie nights; but dark scenes/picture
areas are affected by noticeable ‘black PICTURE FOR AGAINST VERDICT
crush’, where subtle details are lost in FEATURES • Fantastically bright • Dark HDR colours Although it is labour
the darkness. Switching to the Bright BUILD intensive, overall
Cinema preset largely fixes this issue HDR pictures can look unrefined this is a fantastically
– and supplies a more convincing and • Lovely filmic feel • Really unhelpful cinematic projector
nuanced colour performance. • 4K/120 HDR for the money
menu system
Unfortunately, we have come across a gaming support • Some strange
relatively dark HDR title or two – most
notably Blade Runner 2049 on 4K preset decisions
Blu-ray – where the LS12000B’s colour
issues creep in from time to time even in
Bright Cinema mode. With the vast
majority of movies, though, the Bright

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 7

FIRST TESTS

Headphones | ₨17,999

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

New design and exciting features, but disappointing sound

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro earbuds Active Noise Five hours’ charge in the earbuds (with doesn’t support this software version (or
promise a lot. They boast end-to-end Cancelling ANC on) is average at best, on a par with you are using iOS), the 24-bit audio stream
24-bit high-resolution playback (with the AirPods Pro, but lags behind the will get downsampled to 16-bit.
caveats), immersive 360 audio with 360 sound with XM4’s eight hours. You get a total of 18
dynamic head tracking, better active noise dynamic head hours with the case (ANC on), and with Support for 24-bit audio is all well and
cancellation, a sleeker design, and plenty ANC off the Buds 2 Pro earbuds’ good, but playing music wirelessly is still a
more features that are designed to make tracking single-charge goes up to eight hours. lossy game, especially when using
life easier when using them every day. Thankfully, a fast charge of five minutes Bluetooth. We need to know the data rate
will give you one hour of battery and they to make any meaningful comparison of the
The Buds 2 Pro cost ₨17,999, matching can be charged wirelessly or via USB-C. information being relayed. Samsung has
the launch price of the previous Galaxy confirmed to us that the Buds 2 Pro
Buds Pro, and for once it’s nice to see a Impressive new features support 24-bit/48kHz audio at a data rate
brand buck the trend of rising prices, of 584kbps (an uncompressed CD-spec
particularly as you get improved The Buds 2 Pro’s main feature is end-to- data stream works at 1411kbps). aptX HD
specification and new features. Rivals end 24-bit high-resolution “hi-fi” sound Bluetooth supports 24-bit/48kHz at
Sony WF-1000XM4, Apple AirPods Pro quality – the aim is to hear “exactly as the 576kbps – so Samsung’s new SSC HiFi
and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds carry a artist intended” through these earbuds, Codec delivers a little more information
more premium price, but there are decent thanks to a new codec called Samsung than this. But the Sony XM4 still offers
deals on all of these; for instance, the XM4 Seamless Codec (SSC) HiFi. the highest spec, with 24-bit/96kHz audio
can be snapped up for the same price. transmitted at data rates of up to 990 kbps
There are a couple of caveats here. The using its LDAC technology.
Smaller and more snug IPX7 waterproof full 24-bit playback works only when the
rating earbuds are paired with Samsung Galaxy The earbuds also feature enhanced 360
Gone is the glossy plastic finish of the old devices running One UI 4.0 or higher. We audio with direct multi-channel support
Galaxy Buds Pro in favour of a smooth, AKG’s expertise are using a Galaxy S22 Plus provided by and dynamic head tracking. This results in
all-matt finish that looks and feels more has been called Samsung for our review. Samsung assures a more immersive sound experience when
elegant, while the matching charging case on for the buds’ us that, as long as the audio source is listening to Atmos-mixed songs on Tidal,
is similarly svelte. There’s a sense that drivers and sound 24-bit, the SSC HiFi codec will guarantee it and when playing TV shows and films with
everything has been streamlined to offer a is delivering the full bit depth. There is no an Atmos 5.1 or 7.1 surround soundtrack,
more premium and slick profile. way to confirm this in the earbuds, phone such as Marvel’s output on Disney Plus.
or music player’s settings though. If you
The earbuds are now 15 per cent smaller, are using any other Android device that Bluetooth 5.3 is on board – the first time
designed to fit even more snugly. Our pair we have seen the latest Bluetooth standard
settle into the nook of our ears securely appear on a product. It’s a huge step up
and aren’t easily dislodged, though our from the Buds Pro’s 5.0 and the Buds 2’s
ears do get a little fatigued over time, with 5.2. Connecting the Buds 2 Pro to our
the earbuds pressing against our ears Galaxy S22 Plus is as quick as when
noticeably after long periods. You get three connecting AirPods Pro to an iPhone.
ear tips, and we recommend using the
Earbud Fit Test in Samsung’s Galaxy Active noise cancelling (ANC) has also
Wearable app to make sure you have got been improved on the Buds 2 Pro, with
the best seal. the noise around you disappearing as
soon as you put the buds on. We barely
You can control playback and noise-
cancelling modes, activate Bixby voice
assistant, take calls and more using
touch-sensitive taps on the earbuds. Inside
each earbud is a coaxial driver with a
5.3mm tweeter and 10mm woofer. You will
notice “Sound by AKG” stamped inside the
case – the headphone brand’s expertise is
used with the earbuds’ drivers and sound.

The Buds 2 Pro’s best-in-class IPX7
rating (they can survive up to 30 minutes
in up to a metre of water), surpasses rival
ANC earbuds’ more usually IPX4 ratings.

8 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

FIRST TESTS

hear the train’s engine on our daily “The Buds 2 Pro feature end-to-end 24-bit hi-res
commute and surrounding conversations ’hi-fi’ sound quality – the aim is to hear ‘exactly as
are muted to a near-silent degree, with the artist intended’, via the new SSC HiFi codec”
only a hiss of voices creeping through
when music isn’t playing. Samsung uses The buds are 15 We play a variety of different recordings sure enough, switching from the Galaxy
three high SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) per cent smaller, from different eras: ’70s Tom Waits, 2000s S22 Plus to an iPhone 12 sounds noticeably
mics that help to filter out 40 per cent designed to fit Dr Dre, and Demi Lovato’s latest HOLY better, more rhythmically interesting and
more outside noise than the previous more snugly FVCK album – but the Samsung buds’ lack capable, and a bit more refined.
Buds Pro. The wind shield on the Buds 2 of transparency robs them of their
Pro has doubled in size as well, and is individual musicality and personality. Wet The question of “How Samsung are
more effective in eliminating unwanted Leg’s quirky vocals on Chaise Longue you?” remains more pertinent than ever,
outside noise. sound indifferent and the upbeat tempo is because if the answer is “very”, the new
lagging, with no sense of urgency or fun. Galaxy Buds 2 Pro will serve you
Those with a Samsung Galaxy phone There is a lack of transparency, drive and extremely well. There are plenty of great
will get the full suite of features in the subtlety here that rivals such as the Sony features to tailor to your needs and
Buds 2 Pro – including a home screen XM4 are far more adept at delivering. everything has been streamlined to offer a
widget that lets you change noise modes more premium and slick experience.
and turn all touch controls off with a single Dynamically, the Buds 2 Pro sound
tap. The Wearables app with the Buds 2 compressed – and this affects the flow of a Samsung keeping the 24-bit hi-res
Pro’s extensive customisable features is song and our enjoyment hugely. The piano audio support locked within its own
available for other Android users, but notes in Light Of The Seven from the Game ecosystem makes as much sense as Apple
there’s no such luck for Apple/iOS users, Of Thrones soundtrack need more texture, keeping specific technologies solely for its
who will get only the basic Bluetooth the silences between notes need more iOS devices – their respective walled
connection for playback and basic touch depth, and the timing needs to be far more gardens will reward loyal customers. But
controls. Another boon for those precise to convey fully the haunting it also forces you to make a choice. And
embedded in the Samsung ecosystem is intensity of the track. considering the iPhone is a better
auto switching, with the Buds 2 Pro sounding source than the Galaxy… well,
connecting easily to Galaxy smartphones, Songs in 24-bit have more detail, but the everyone is getting short changed here.
watches and, for the first time, Samsung buds’ flat performance is heard regardless
2022 smart TVs. of the track’s resolution. The irony is we The Buds 2 Pro may have improved
have long found Apple’s kit to be a better upon their previous generation, but the
High energy sound source than most other phones and sound quality is still a long way off the
standards set by the competition.
We play a mix of Tidal streams in Master
quality and local 24-bit hi-res tracks RATING
downloaded onto our Galaxy phone. Our
first impressions are that the earbuds SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
sound incredibly open and clear. Dua COMFORT • Clear, open sound • Disappointing, Despite being sleek
Lipa’s voice on Levitating is delivered FEATURES • Sleek design and feature-
loudly and with ample detail. It sounds big • Better ANC unengaging packed, the Buds 2
and spacious, and there is high energy to • Plenty of features dynamics Pro’s sound quality
the tune that is attractive to listen to. • Sound lacks remains
(for Samsung subtlety and disappointing
As we keep listening to a mix of genres users) precision
and recordings, however, the Buds 2 Pro’s
shortcomings start to crop up. Lorde’s
vocals come through prominently on
Royals, but behind her are drum hits that
don’t land with the intended impact. Bass
is rather soft, instead of taut and driven.
There’s enough of it, but it’s not well
defined. And the forward-leaning treble
(partly responsible for the impression of
openness) has a hard edge that becomes
fatiguing to listen to over long periods.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 9



FIRST TESTS

Smartphone | ₨79,900

Apple iPhone 14

…or should that be ‘iPhone 13S’? That’s debatable

Like clockwork, Apple launches a 6.1 inch OLED display the rear cameras are Using wired headphones is still the
plethora of new iPhones every Diwali, Dolby Vision now bigger and faster. way to go if you want the very best audio
and this year is no exception. And yes, Still comprising a pair performance, and as we do so we hear
you guessed it, they’re the best iPhones Stereo speakers of 12MP shooters, James Blake’s Limit To Your Love
yet. The iPhone 14 comes in practically including a standard carrying weighty bass with clear,
every shape and size, with the Pro A few nips and wide and ultrawide sparkling vocals, a natural-sounding
undoubtedly being the more exciting of tucks help to lens, the main sensor piano and snappy timing. It’s impossible
the bunch with its ‘Dynamic Island’ keep the iPhone now features bigger to pick faults in the 14’s headphone
notch and upgraded internals. up with the best pixels for improved presentation, and the loudspeakers are
performance in both also very good by smartphone standards
But we’re here to talk about the daytime shots and – spacious, clear and punchy.
standard, and cheapest, iPhone 14. While Night Mode. In
it may be a solid phone, it’s also practice, the iPhone’s We’re not going to be too harsh on the
practically identical to its predecessor. camera performance iPhone 14 as it is truly a five-star device;
Same chassis, same screen, same keeps it at the head of both the picture and audio are
processor. So, given that the iPhone 13 is the smartphone pack. thoroughly brilliant, but – not for the first
staying in the range is this just an iPhone time with a new iPhone – there isn’t a
13S, or an unenthusiastic placeholder for Battery size has also great deal new to shout about here.
Apple while it gives the 14 Pro time to been increased slightly,
live in the limelight? from the 13’s 3240mAh to
3279mAh. While not earth-shattering,
Processing and storage this means the 14 easily makes it
through the day without its user having
Despite the iPhone 14’s inflated price, it to resort to battery-saving measures.
has the same A15 Bionic processor found
in the iPhone 13 and the same 128GB The iPhone 14 has the same screen
base storage configuration. This is specifications as last year’s model, yet
backed by an extra 2GB of RAM, which we are still wowed by the sharp, well
should keep daily use and multitasking balanced, bright performance. Firing up
running smoothly, and the 14 apparently the bombastic Thor: Love And Thunder
has more sophisticated cooling to ensure on Disney Plus, we see that the iPhone
the processor doesn’t overheat. produces a stunning image that combines
naturalism, crisp detail and punch.
The 14 is practically identical to its
predecessor when it comes to the outer As good as ever
shell too; the same flat aluminium frame
holds the same 6.1-inch OLED Super Much as with the picture performance, if
Retina display. There are some new there are differences between the
colours though, with Midnight (black/ iPhone 13’s and 14’s audio performance
navy), Starlight (silver), and Product Red then we are hard-pressed to find them.
being joined by two soft pastel shades of You will still need a Lightning to 3.5mm
Blue and Purple. The finish and quality audio adapter (not included in the box),
of construction are typically premium. but Bluetooth is always an alternative
for those wanting a wireless solution.
The stellar Super Retina OLED display
of the iPhone 13 makes a return at the RATING
same 2532 x 1170 resolution, as do
HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, but PICTURE FOR AGAINST VERDICT
HLG is added. The iPhone 14 also comes SOUND • Excellent display • No upgrades to Although there are
equipped with Apple’s latest operating BUILD • Admirable very few picture
system – iOS 16 – although most of the picture or sound and sound
updates here are aesthetic. headphone • Familiar design upgrades, the
performance • Notch is still iPhone 14 is still
The real upgrade that differentiates • Solid build quality great in those areas
the iPhone 14 from the 13 is the camera present
system. The front camera now includes
digital autofocus for clearer selfies, while

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 11

BASS-ically Brilliant

Better than a live concert!

CERWIN VEGA XLS215  THE LOUDEST SPEAKER

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going to a live concert. The Model XLS215 comes with a high sensitivity which enables max entertainment and volume

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 Dual 15” - 3 way speaker  Frequency response: 38HZ -20KHZ ( -3dB)  Power handling - 500w Peak
 Sensitivity in SPL - 95.3 dB  Impedance - 6 ohms  Dimension HWD - 49.7” x 17”x 21.1”  Net weight - 52.6Kg

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Porsche Design is no stranger to making premium soundbars, but the As of now, the new tier is only launched in 12 countries except India
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The luxury design brand reckons the 2.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos- than the Basic plan that comes at around $9.99 per month. As the
capable speaker has a total power output of 300W and "goes from 0 name suggests, the new ad-supported basic plan will have around
to goosebumps in a single sound curve". Other features include a 4K four to five minutes of advertisement each hour. So, if you don't
passthrough HDMI port, so you can hook up a next-generation console or mind small breaks in the middle of an enthralling scene, you may
a 4K streaming device. Support for Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Google save a couple of bucks. Netflix also confirmed that users will get up
Chromecast and Spotify Connect means the 911 Soundbar 2.0 Pro could to 30 seconds of ad breaks before the start of any show or movie.
also double as a wireless music system. The 65kg, 1.5m-wide Porsche Plus, the ad-supported Basic will not offer an option to download
Design 911 Soundbar 2.0 Pro will set you back about ₨10,00,000. videos and will only have a limited number of movies and TV shows
in the beginning because of licensing restrictions. While there is no
information as to when this plan could be extended to India, Netflix
certainly assured that it will expand to more countries. At present
the basic subscription plan comes at ₨149 per month in India. So
anything cheaper than that would have a lot of takers.

Lindemann launches its first AIO!

The new Lindemann
Musicbook Combo
can do it all... in style...

For Lindemann, the new speakers, and you’re set to enjoy details. No matter whether quality headphone aficionados,
Musicbook Combo was music in its most beautiful from streaming services or you get a built-in headphone
the clear logical step in the form. Rich in detail and yet from a music server, from CDs amp that sets benchmarks in
continuation of the extremely relaxed, with a large stage or a or LPs, almost every playback this class. And the icing on the
successful Musicbook series. small ensemble, with vigorous is possible and conveniently cake is the excellent phono MM
The company claims it is fully dynamics or soft and soulful operable via the app. For high- input for turntables!
equipped, with a unique design
and truly audiophile genes.
The Musicbook Combo joins
the proven streaming platform
of the Musicbook Source and
the power amp technology of
the Musicbook Power. It comes
with a multitude of features and
connectivity options making
your tonal dreams come true.
Simply connect the matching

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 13

Signature Series

Spectacularly Stylish,
Strikingly Detailed, Stunningly Powerful.

Polk Signature Series speakers are built to bring the big surround sound theatre and
music experience into the comfort of your living room. At a price that is a pleasant
surprise. Take them home and envelop yourself in elevated, authentic, high fidelity sound,

whether you’re listening to your favourite band or watching your favourite show.

For enquiries reach us at [email protected]
www.profx.com

INSIDER

iFi Uno is a dinky She's got the woods...
hi-res pocket DAC
Audio Technica's 60th anniversary celebrations continue. The firm
The iFi Uno is its most entry-level device yet – a portable DAC and has already reissued its classic Sound Burger portable turntable
headphone amplifier designed to boost the audio of your desktop or and launched a transparent deck into the bargain. And now it's
mobile devices. The Uno's main connection is a USB-C input, meaning launched the world's first pair of wireless headphones made from
it can connect to Windows PCs, Apple Mac computers, and the latest wood, and they boast a hi-fi feature not seen on any other wireless
smartphones and tablets. It draws power from the device it's connected pair. Now that's how to celebrate a birthday! This feature is called
to, so there's no need for extra power cables. The iFi Uno is billed as a balanced stereo. This delivers a completely separate signal path to
"first-rung audio upgrade" for those that aren't an audiophile and don't each earcup, meaning each audio channel is completely isolated
care much about the technical innards when it comes to DACs. But that from the other with no interference or crosstalk. That separation
doesn't mean iFi has skimped on the technical aspects of the Uno – far results in a purer listening experience.Wired hi-fi cans have had this
from it. Inside its tiny footprint (it measures a tiny 8.8 x 2.6 x 8.1cm) feature for decades, but it's never been found in a wireless model
lies a powerful ESS Sabre DAC chip, jitter elimination technologies, and before. Usually, wireless models process incoming digital stereo
iFi’s dedicated clock circuitry that aims to deliver "ultra-low distortion, signals using one amp and digital-to-analogue converter (DAC). But
excellent clarity and impressive dynamic range." the ATH-WB2022 feature not one but two ESS DAC ES9038Q2M
digital-to-analogue converters – one for the left channel, and one for
the right! They support Sony's LDAC high-resolution codec, as well
as AAC and SBC, too.

Devialet's first ever portable...

...Packs in 360° sound and Phantom tech!

Devialet has unveiled its first in the centre of a room, for
ever portable speaker. The example, and the 360-degree
Devialet Mania promises stereo mode is automatically
"adaptive 360° stereo sound" activated. Place it against a
and a suitably-luxurious wall and the two full-range rear
design that references the drivers up the ante to deliver
pricier Devialet Phantom a more expansive soundstage.
range. The bowling ball-sized Devialet describes the design
Mania packs a condensed as 'an ode to the Phantom',
version of the French firm's hence the spherical, polished
proprietary audio technology. ring surrounded by a luxe
Four full-range drivers – plus woven fabric. There's also a
two subwoofers in a 'push' handle, so you can transport
configuration to reduce your 2.3kg audio baby from the
distortion – promise a living room to the garden and
frequency range as low as beyond. Not enough bling?
30Hz and as high as 20,000Hz. Why not consider the Paris
Active Stereo Calibration Opéra edition, embellished
meanwhile uses four with 24-carat moongold (gold
microphones to adapt the that has a 'uniquely rich' tone,
Devialet Mania's sound to its apparently). You'll have to pay
surroundings. Place the Mania a bit more, of course.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 15



Image credit: Victrola, Apple, McIntosh, Bose, Sonos TOPINSIDER FIVE INSIDER
LAUNCHES
1
Five products to look
out for this month Sonos Sub Mini

2 Sonos launched its mini soundbar earlier this year with the Ray,
and now it has paired it with a subwoofer. Introducing the Sub
iPhone 14 Pro Mini, a cylindrical sub measuring just 23cm by 30.5cm. It can be
Max paired with any of Sonos’s soundbars, from the Ray to the Arc, or
integrated into an existing Sonos surround set-up. Sonos has
Another year, another designed the Sub Mini to slot in under the Sub Gen 3, making the
iPhone – and as Apple Mini a more attractive option for those looking to complete their
frequently claims, this Sonos entertainment set-up on a stricter budget.
is the best one yet.
The 14 Pro Max is 3
certainly a formidable
phone, with a 6.7in Bose QuietComfort
OLED ProMotion Earbuds II
display that now can
reach a peak Bose is out to reclaim the
brightness of 2000 active noise cancelling crown
nits, and finally from the likes of Sony and Apple
includes an always-on with the QuietComfort Earbuds
display option. Apple II. These Bluetooth in-ear buds are
has also reinvented the a total redesign from the first
notch, making the generation set and include “CustomTune”, a
camera and FaceID feature that will calibrate both audio performance
cutout an interactive and noise cancelling based on the unique shape of
widget for media your ear. This is achieved via the headphones playing a tone every
controls and other app functionality – dubbing it the Dynamic time you take the buds out of the charging case and place them
Island. So is Apple on to a winner here? And is it indeed the into your ear. The tone is picked up by the internal microphone
best iPhone yet? which determines the ear canal’s acoustic response. But with
tough competition from the likes of the AirPods Pro 2 (2022),
4 Samsung Buds 2 Pro and Sony LinkBuds S – can Bose fend off its
rivals with the QCII?
Victrola Stream Carbon
5
Fitted with a low-resonance veneer plinth, carbon
fibre tonearm with a removable head shell and the McIntosh XCS1.5K
Ortofon Red 2M magnetic cartridge, the Stream
Carbon certainly has the components of a premium The centre channel to end all centre channels, this titan of a speaker
deck. But its connectivity is where it shines. Alongside from McIntosh boasts a whopping 43 individual drivers and weighs
dedicated physical controls and an app, this turntable in at more than 80kg. Breaking down the driver selection, we have
can be integrated into a Sonos multi-room system 25 x 19mm tweeters, 14 x 63.5mm aluminium cone midrange
straight out of the box. The story goes drivers and four 20cm long-throw carbon fibre bass drivers. The
that vinyl-loving Sonos owners told hefty speaker can be tilted to one of five pre-set angles on its base
the company they would listen to for optimal positioning and has seven layers of high-gloss piano
their records more if it was black paint. This luxury speaker has a luxury price tag to match, of
possible through their Sonos course, but the craftsmanship and uncompromising approach from
system. Well, now those vinyl McIntosh makes it an interesting product nonetheless.
enthusiasts who want to hear
their albums in every room
of the house, can.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 17

THE SAVANT PRO
APP OFFERS THE
MOST ADVANCED &
USER FRIENDLY
INTERFACE THAT
PUTS THE CONTROLS
OF YOUR ENTIRE
HOUSE AT YOUR
FINGERTIPS.

With a world class interface
for Multi Room Audio and
Automation, you get to
control your entire home
with just a few taps.

SECURITY MOOD LIGHTING MEDIA

Access real-time camera With Temperature Control All the lights in your home or With smart control of your

footage and remotely on your fingertips, set the o ce can be custom-tailored media, you can access your

control your home right mood to relax or focus to the right brightness or ad- favorite show or music in

from your smartphone. and work. just based on time of day. any room, at any time.

Address : 302, T Square, Saki Vihar Rd, Ganesh Nagar, Marol,
Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400072
Website : www.itstechsolutions.in
Contact : 8452029966, 8452040938

TEMPTATIONS: SPEAKERS

Paradise found

If you can afford them, these products will take you into hi-fi heaven.
And if you can’t, you can at least take a peek through the pearly gates

If you think compromise is a dirty word, what follows is At this level, where small details are critical, manufacturers
especially for you. We have chosen our favourite top-level push engineering to its limits, which is never going to be cheap;
products in 12 categories – audio and visual – and, over the whether it’s the best in diminutive in-ear headphones or the
next 38 pages, we deliver our in-depth verdicts on every one finest big-screen TV, the pusuit of excellence requires a money-
of them. But be warned: these high-flyers do not come cheap. no-object approach. So, hang the cost – and enjoy the best.

AV RECEIVERS DACS TURNTABLES

Cinema-like sound in your living room These two will transform your music Lift your vinyl collection to new heights

HEADPHONES CD PLAYERS TELEVISIONS

In-ears, over-ears and superb electrostatics Your CDs have never had it so good Two TVs that redefine the moving image

HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER AMPLIFIERS PROJECTORS

Who says valves can’t cut it these days? Seven of the finest signal-boosters Home projection at its very best – and in 8K

STREAMERS PHONO STAGES SPEAKERS

A pair of digital dynamos to die for The best turntables deserve these Nine greats, including three floorstanders

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 19

TEMPTATIONS: AV RECEIVER

AVRECEIVER

JBL “Until you have heard a product as well
sorted as the SDR-35, you don’t realise
Synthesis SDR-35 how imprecise others are in this regard”

AV receiver ₨8,84,990

s the component to which all The Synthesis defining low-level dynamic alterations. delivering SBTRKT’s Trials Of The Past
SDR-35 does a But it’s also a true powerhouse when the with plenty of urgency and punch, the
A others are connected, an AV decent job with action requires it. As bullets start flying, opening of MØL’s Bruma with an
receiver or amplifier is the two-channel there’s a hugely satisfying dynamic shift enchanting sense of space and growing
brains and beating heart of a system. music as well and a great uptick in weight and heft. threat, and Nick Cave and Warren Ellis’s
Those who become too focused on The Road with layers of textured
comparing spec sheets may well SOUND The delivery is cohesive, too, both in low-level dynamic subtlety. This is about
overlook the JBL Synthesis SDR-35. Of terms of its tonality and its organisation. as hi-fi as home cinema products get.
course, what a spec sheet can never tell BUILD No frequencies stand out unduly, and
you is how a product sounds, and in this effects are passed from one speaker to The JBL Synthesis SDR-35 is an
regard, the JBL Synthesis SDR-35 is a FEATURES another without the listener’s attention extraordinarily good home cinema
clear cut above any other AV amplifier ever being drawn to the process. You are receiver. Its spec sheet may lack a little in
we have tested over the past few years. FOR simply drawn into and immersed in the terms of amplified channels and absent
It shares much specification with its • Supremely clean, film you are watching. HDMI 2.1 compared with more
Arcam AVR 35 cousin, including its Class mainstream amps, but in terms of sound
G amplification, which consists of two clear sound JBL makes a strong case for the quality, it’s in a whole different league,
power supplies – one that handles • Thrilling mix of SDR-35’s music credentials. Playing delivering music and movies with a truly
low-volume effects, and another with Michael Jackson’s This Is It Blu-ray, rare maturity and sophistication.
more power that takes over when higher subtlety and scale there’s unrivalled rhythmic and spatial
volumes are required. The arrangement • Substantial format precision to the presentation. Every
is designed to ensure plenty of power is instrument and vocal is crisply defined
available as required, while ensuring that support and given plenty of space in the
no more power is used than is necessary. surround field, creating a striking sense
AGAINST of being in the concert hall for the
4K IS A-OKAY • Only seven rehearsals. Detail levels, dynamics and
timing are excellent, too, comfortably
While a lack of HDMI 2.1 functionality channels of power conveying the unbelievable quality of
might be alarming, it’s only presently an • HDMI 2.1 upgrade Jackson’s live band.
issue for hardcore gamers. The JBL does
support 4K signals at up to 60 frames per will cost extra The JBL is a musical performer with
second, which no movie source currently stereo sources, too. You wouldn’t need to
exceeds, and format support is exemplary. VERDICT spend thousands for a stereo amp that
Building a high-end sounds better, but the SDR-35 is very
In our 7.1 configuration, the Synthesis home cinema? This accomplished for an AV amplifier,
SDR-35 sings. As Deadpool does his piece should be the first
to camera at the start of the first film, we AVR you audition
are immediately struck by the
cleanliness and clarity of the delivery.
There’s a beautiful naturalism to Ryan
Reynolds’ voice – a richness and weight
that makes less premium AV amps sound
a bit reedy and insubstantial. Until you
have heard a product as well sorted as
the SDR-35, you don’t realise how
imprecise others are in this regard.

In quieter scenes, the JBL proves to be
a nuanced and subtle performer, digging
up the finest of details and deftly

20 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SPEAKERS

SPEAKERS

Audiovector

R1 Arreté

Standmount speakers ₨POR

W hat if you have a generous
budget, but a compact listening
space? Audiovector’s R1 Arreté

may provide the answer. Audiovector is

different from most rivals in that it offers

upgradable speakers. The entry-level R1,

the Signature, features a good-quality

dome tweeter and a carbon-coned mid/

bass driver all housed in a neat, nicely

made, curved cabinet. When the upgrade

itch strikes, the speakers can be returned Hand-built AMT copper conductors and reduce resistance. dynamics and dense instrumentation.
tweeter is claimed The sonic benefits should include The R1s stay composed even when pushed
to the factory for conversion to either the to offer greater improved clarity and resolution. hard and barely harden-up in such
agility and detail circumstances. Detail levels are high, but
Avantgarde (₨4 lakhs, Approx) or the The single-wire terminals are mounted the Audiovector’s musically cohesive way
SOUND on a carbon fibre plate rather than metal to of assembling all that information really
range-topping Arreté spec we have here. avoid unwanted electromagnetic impresses. These are the kind of speakers
BUILD interaction with the crossover components. that allow you to analyse the production of
The changes are wholesale, involving The AMT tweeter’s grille and faceplate are a recording if you want to, but they would
COMPATIBILITY shaped to help dispersion and then the rather you step back and enjoy the music.
better drive units, higher-spec crossovers grounding connection is connected to the
FOR drive-unit chassis to get rid of any Audiovector has done a good job with
and even improvements to the cabinet, • Musically cohesive unwanted currents flowing in the structure. the tonality of these boxes. A lot of small
• Expressive speakers sound insubstantial, but these
depending on the level chosen. We place them a little out into the room R1s have an unexpectedly weighty
dynamics with a slight angle towards the listening presentation thanks to the agile yet
IMPROVED RESOLUTION • Fine build position, and get an impressively wide surprisingly muscular bass-end. We have
soundstage with precisely located sounds them on solid stands, out into the room,
The Arreté features an open-backed and finish and instruments. The sense of depth is and at no point do we feel that they need
version of the company’s hand-built AMT palpable with suitable recordings too. the additional reinforcement of a rear wall.
(Air Motion Transformer) tweeter, claimed AGAINST
to offer greater agility and detail than • Tough competition Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring is a stern Yet, even against such talented, pricier
conventional domes. The rearward sound test and the R1 Arretés respond with and larger competition as B&W’s 805 D4
radiation from the diaphragm is allowed to VERDICT enthusiasm. They may be small in stature and ProAc’s K1, we think these
escape through a vent in the back of the These Audiovector but their sound lacks surprisingly little Audiovectors possess an utterly
cabinet, helping with dynamics, detail and R1 Arretés are a when it comes to scale and authority. convincing blend of talents, particularly
sense of sonic space in the soundstage. brilliant choice if their musical cohesion, expressive
This vent is positioned just above the you’re after a It really is impressive just how bold and dynamics and rhythmic nature.
reflex port for the 16.5cm carbon fibre mid/ top quality confident these speakers are when
bass unit. The carbon fibre cone mixes standmounter challenged with the music’s savage
aramid fibres with artificial wood resin to to work in a
create a well-damped but rigid structure. smaller space “They have an unexpectedly weighty
The claim is of improved resolution and presentation thanks to the agile yet
dynamics over alternatives. surprisingly muscular bass end”

A carefully calibrated crossover network
links the two drivers. It’s packed full of
high-quality components, but here the
company’s engineers have gone further
than most. That crossover is cryogenically
frozen down to -238ºC in a process
intended to relieve internal stresses in the

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 21

T E M P TAT I O N S

ProAc

K1

Standmount speakers ₨8,60,000

P roAc’s high-end K series has Downward-firing The K1s are musical, expressive, seamlessly leaving the K1 to exhibit a
been in production for 12 years port should make cohesive and comfortable. The last of top-to-bottom consistency that only
now. The speakers in the range the K1s less fussy those isn’t a term we use often when Spendor’s Classic 1/2 come close to.
have evolved and been improved in that about placement describing the sound of a product, but it
time, of course, but they have always been fits these standmounters perfectly. These The midrange is the K1’s crowning
floorstanders. Until now that is. SOUND are the kind of speakers you can listen to achievement, an ideal combination of
An unusual plinth arrangement echoes for hours on end without feeling fatigued. articulation, dynamic expression and
the design of the various K series towers. It BUILD They have a calm disposition that makes it natural warmth. Voices sound so organic
works well visually on the floorstanders, easy to relax and just concentrate on the and convincingly textured. It doesn’t
but takes a little acclimatisation when COMPATIBILITY music. But don’t mistake calmness for matter whether it’s Jack White or Nina
transferred to a standmounter. boring – that simply isn’t the case here. Simone, these speakers are supreme at
This arrangement allows for a downward- FOR communicating the passion in the
facing port and gives a known fixed • Natural and We play Seven Nation Army by The performance. Familiar songs such as
boundary (the plinth) for the port to fire on. White Stripes and the K1 respond with Simone’s Strange Fruit bring a chill as she
Without that boundary, the speaker insightful enthusiasm. They deliver the hard- describes the horrific events in the US
designer is left to guess at the available midrange charging beat with verve, rendering those deep South.
space between the port and any surface it • Expressive grungy bass notes with punch and power.
fires onto, which naturally leads to less dynamics Rivals such as the Fyne Audio F1-8 It’s one thing that a speaker is clear
precise port tuning. A downward-firing port • Composed nature certainly deliver more in the way of enough to make words easy to understand
should also make the speakers a little less outright muscularity, but these ProAcs – every credible competitor at this price
fussy about room placement than a typical AGAINST hardly sound lacking on their own terms. does that. It’s something else entirely to
rear-firing alternative would be. • Optional stands That bass dovetails into the midrange make the vocalist’s emotion so easily
ProAc has gone for High Density accessible and understood. We can’t think
Fibreboard (HDF) panels all round, but are pricey of any rivals that organise the detail more
with different thicknesses to spread • Tough competition convincingly or enjoyably, resulting in
resonances. These panels are carefully voices and instruments sounding more
damped with bitumen to control those VERDICT authentic and believable.
resonances and the result should be a ProAc’s K1 offer a
quiet, but rigid, cabinet. deeply satisfying Tonally, the K1 are smooth at the
listen with an top-end and a little rich through the
HIGH LEVELS OF INSIGHT emotive midrange midrange and bass. They have been
and musical artfully balanced to sound unfussy and
It’s in the sonic engineering where these cohesion that rivals entertaining without going so far as to
speakers ultimately prove their worth. The can’t match distract. The fact that they perform so
K1 are a two-way design that makes use of well with so many different types of
ProAc’s well-proven ribbon tweeter with recordings shows just how skilful ProAc’s
its machined faceplate, damped rear engineers have been in striking an
chamber and Alnico magnet assembly. We accommodating balance.
have heard this tweeter in other ProAc
models and it always impresses with its These ProAcs aren’t necessarily the very
high levels of insight and refinement. Here, best in one specific area – though we do
it is combined with an esoteric-looking love their wonderful midrange – but they
16.5cm Kevlar mid/bass unit, based on the still deliver a balance of sound that is
one used in the larger K3 floorstanders. utterly spellbinding in the right system.
Various aspects of the driver have been
tweaked to account for the differing “The ProAc K1’s midrange is an ideal
technical needs of the two speakers. combination of articulation, dynamic
expression and natural warmth”
A carefully calibrated crossover blends
the two drive units and results in a
reasonably high sensitivity of 90dB/W/m
and 8 ohm nominal impedance – ProAc
tends to make speakers that are relatively
kind loads for amps to drive, as here.

22 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SPEAKERS

Spendor “The Classics never sound stressed or
aggressive, even when provoked with
Classic 1/2 less than perfect recordings”

Standmount speakers ₨4,93,439

I t’s easy to underestimate Tri-wire crossover rigid you make a cabinet, it subtlety. There’s a hefty dose of
retro-themed speakers such as aims for seamless will always resonate. The punch and an impressive
Spendor’s Classic 1/2s. They lean integration and stiffer it is, the higher its degree of weight here, but it all
heavily on heritage and seem to have phase alignment resonant frequency will be. sounds proportional and never
different priorities from similarly priced Typically, it ends up dominates more than intended.
modern alternatives. Yet with an open SOUND somewhere in the midrange,
mind and a careful listen you will realise where our ears are at their These speakers time pretty
that the Classic 1/2s offer much more than BUILD most sensitive. If you make well too, conveying the
just a nostalgia trip. Spendor’s first product the cabinet walls thin, then momentum of the music with
was the legendary 1969 BC-1, which were COMPATIBILITY that resonance frequency will skill. This isn’t done with quite
considered revolutionary and implemented move towards the lower the verve of Audiovector’s
the speaker design ideals developed by the FOR frequencies where it is less smaller but similarly priced R1
BBC’s famed engineering department. • Unforced likely to be noticed. Add a Arretés, but isn’t as far away as
The BC-1’s design was based on a move hefty dose of damping to the we would have expected.
away from conventional paper-pulp dynamics panels and things should stay
diaphragms to using Bextrene for better • Easy-going in control. We push volume levels
resonance control. They had a thin-walled, northwards and the 1/2
heavily damped cabinet construction and character Spendor is rare among small respond with class-leading
a reputation for naturalness and • Impressive build speaker specialists in that it makes composure and refinement. They
transparency. The driver configuration was cabinets in-house – and the craftsmanship never sound stressed or aggressive, even
three-way, but split the frequency range and finish on display here is impressive. The 1/2’s when provoked with less than perfect
into mid/bass, low treble and high treble enclosure has crisp edges and is recordings. We love the way these
(13kHz+). It’s fair to think of the Classic 1/2 AGAINST beautifully finished with a high-quality speakers are far less forward sounding
as the speakers the BC-1 would be if they • Dedicated stands real wood veneer. than most rivals, but still manage to
were made using today’s technology. render vocals with uncommon clarity
are expensive These are big speakers, but they don’t and grace. It’s a full-bodied, nicely scaled
HIGHLY DEVELOPED need a massive room to work properly. presentation that can be truly convincing
VERDICT You should be fine as long as you can with good recordings.
The Classic 1/2 are three-way speakers in a The Classic 1/2 play place them around a metre out from the These speakers may lack the overtly
conventional sense with bass, midrange on their retro- wall. They are not particularly fussy high-tech engineering of price rivals, but
and tweeter units. These are all highly appeal, but also about angling towards the listening they are none the worse for that. These are
developed modern drivers, and all bar the offer a blend of position either. carefully considered boxes that deliver a
tweeter are designed, engineered and strengths that rivals thoroughly modern performance without
made in-house. The drive units no longer struggle to match We expected loads of bass, but didn’t losing the retro-charm that so defines
use Bextrene though. The bass driver is anticipate it being so agile and articulate. Spendor’s Classic range.
new and has a 22cm polyamide fibre Listening to Massive Attack’s Angel is a
reinforced polymer cone held in a die-cast treat. The Classics plumb the depths with
magnesium alloy chassis. It is designed to ease, delivering notes with texture and
remain low-distortion even when pushed
hard. This is partnered with a 15cm
midrange unit, which uses the company’s
proven EP77 polymer cone material.

At the top-end is Spendor’s 22mm
wide-surround soft-dome tweeter. We have
heard this unit before and it has always
worked well. The three drive units are
linked with a carefully calibrated tri-wire
crossover network that aims for seamless
integration and good phase alignment.

The idea behind the Classic 1/2’s
thin-walled cabinet is that, no matter how

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 23

T E M P TAT I O N S

Wharfedale

Elysian

Floorstanding speakers ₨10,80,000

I n our view, good value doesn’t At 119 x 40cm
come down to how cheap these are big
something is; for us it’s about speakers, broad by
how much you get for the money. In those current standards
terms, these big Wharfedales represent
excellent value. SOUND the Wharfedales’ high volume capability impressively civil nature that appeals to us
At 119cm x 40cm, these are big speakers and impressive muscularity come to the most. They have the insight and delicacy
– unusually broad by current standards. BUILD fore. They give the music a palpable to bring Ólafur Arnalds’ Found Songs to
They are a three-way design with a 27 x presence in our listening room and life. The sound is full of detail, organised in
90mm AMT (Air Motion Transformer) COMPATIBILITY deliver a sense of power that most rivals a natural, intuitive way. We like the way
tweeter, 15cm midrange unit and a pair of barely hint at. Large-scale crescendos are these monster floorstanders express the
meaty 22cm bass units. All three of the FOR dispatched with confidence, the Elysians album’s dynamic nuances and the skill
larger units use a cone made of a woven • Huge sonic scale punching out sound with real venom. with which they communicate
glass fibre matrix, a proprietary material • Impressive bass They can play at high volume without instrumental textures. It’s an unforced
that is claimed to combine low mass with stress too, but still sound interesting at presentation that’s comfortable and
high strength. In this installation, it is also reach and agility whisper levels. This is something to note easy-going without sounding bland.
covered with a high-plasticity coating for • Excellent build if you listen late at night. There’s a great deal of analysis, but the
improved damping of internal resonances. music always comes first.
The bass units are tuned by a downward- and finish Those 22cm bass drivers generate the
firing port arrangement. The port vents kind of impressive low-end heft Tonally, these Wharfedales are smooth
through a gap between the base of the main AGAINST their appearance suggests. If all this talk of and admirably refined. Feed them a
speaker cabinet and the plinth. This • Floor spikes can’t muscle suggests a lack of finesse or bright, aggressive recording and they
arrangement makes the transition from the subtlety, if anything it’s the Elysian 4’s won’t hide the rough edges. But neither
high air pressure inside the enclosure to the be adjusted do they go out of their way to emphasise
low pressure of the listening room • Need a larger the shortcomings. That AMT tweeter
smoother and is claimed to reduce bass combines resolution with smoothness,
distortion, increase efficiency and spread room to shine delivering the highs sweetly without
the bass energy more evenly around the lacking bite. And that’s a difficult balance
room. In practical terms, it makes the VERDICT to strike. Stereo imaging is impressive,
Elysian 4 less fussy about room placement. The Elysian 4 prove too. Like most big speakers these towers
The front baffle and internal braces are that Wharfedale can don’t quite manage to disappear within
made of high-density fibreboard, while the make great the soundstage, but they still render a
rest of the enclosure uses layered MDF and speakers at all nicely focused and layered image.
particleboard panels in a bid to control price levels
resonances. The cabinet volume is split When it comes to build, engineering
internally so that the bass units have their content and performance, the Wharfedale
own separate space to work in and don’t Elysian 4 have little to fear from any rival.
disturb the midrange’s operation. Provided you have a room large enough to
accommodate them, and a suitably
DYNAMIC PUNCH talented system, we highly recommend
you have a listen.
Such big units need a decently large space
to shine; these are also revealing speakers “The speakers give the music a palpable
and any compromise with the partnering presence and deliver a sense of power
source or amplification is readily heard. that most rivals barely hint at”
That said, a sensitivity of 92dB/W/m and a
nominal impedance described as ‘8 ohm
compatible’ suggests lower-powered amps
shouldn’t be discounted.

The Elysian 4 deliver a combination of
scale, authority and dynamic punch that
most (invariably smaller) price rivals can’t
match. With Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture,

24 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SPEAKERS

Bowers “We get the impression the engineering
& Wilkins team really delved into the details to
eke out every ounce of performance”
805 D4
respond well when driven by an amp with have no issue with playing at higher
Standmount speakers ₨12,90,000 plenty of poke. The quoted minimum volume levels. If anything, they only really
impedance of 4.6 ohms reinforces this. come to life when pushed a little. Listen at
espite being the baby of B&W’s low levels and they sound a touch lifeless,
PACKED WITH TECH lacking the ability to hold our attention
D 800 range, the D4 are no poor over longer listening sessions.
relation to their pricier siblings These B&Ws don’t prove particularly fussy
such as the mighty range-topping 801 D4 in terms of positioning. We place them The 805 D4 are beautifully made and
and pack in all the applicable engineering around a metre out from the rear wall and packed with technology. We get the
advancements enjoyed elsewhere. The slightly angled in towards the main impression that the engineering team
most notable is the improved cabinet listening position. They work well here, behind their design really delved into the
construction. This is the first time that the sounding balanced and delivering a details to eke out every ounce of
805 model enjoys a ‘reverse wrap’ cabinet, wide-open soundstage. These performance they could. The result is
where the front and side panels are formed standmounters have an impressively arguably the most insightful and detailed
by a single shaped piece of birch ply. This expansive presentation with a lovely sense sounding pair of speakers at this level.
approach has advantages in stiffness and of space and lack of clutter to
resonance control, both of which are also Cabinet is claimed the sound. All that work on
helped by the addition of a beautifully to be significantly controlling cabinet
machined aluminium spine that also quieter than in resonances really pays
houses the high quality, low-order previous designs off, because, with eyes
crossover network. closed, it’s very hard to
The internal bracing, previously made of SOUND pinpoint the physical
MDF, is now replaced by plywood that also location of the
benefits from strategic aluminium BUILD speakers. As we listen
reinforcements, topped off with an to Orff’s Carmina
aluminium casting for the top panel that COMPATIBILITY Burana, we are pleased
has a rather lovely Connolly leather inset. to find that the imaging
The result is a cabinet that feels FOR stays nicely layered and
immensely solid and well controlled, and • Class-leading focused even as the piece
is claimed to be significantly quieter than explodes into a mass of
previous generations’ designs. clarity and frantic voices and
While the drive-unit configuration is the resolution instrumentation.
familiar pairing of 25mm diamond-dome • Open, agile and
tweeter and 165mm continuum mid/bass articulate Rarely do we come
unit, as used in the previous generation, it • Excellent build across speakers at this level
has been further refined. That distinctive and finish that uncover so much information
aluminium tweeter pod is now longer, and deliver it in such a composed
making it even more effective in absorbing AGAINST and organised manner. Outright
the sound coming off the back of that • Tough competition clarity is class-leading, as is the 805
diamond dome, thus reducing distortion. • Don’t shine at low D4’s ability to track the envelope of a
The pod is supported by a revised note from its leading edge to its
mounting arrangement that is claimed to volume levels trailing harmonics. The speakers are
improve isolation from the vibrations as agile and articulate as they come
generated by the mid/bass unit, as well as VERDICT and render music in an analytical yet
give more consistency in alignment. Lastly, The Bowers & still musically involving way. If your
the tweeter’s motor system has been Wilkins 805 D4 are main priority is to hear deeply into
finessed with the aim of improving beautifully made the production of a recording there
dynamics and the unit’s performance at and sonically are few better options for the money.
the lower end of its operating bandwidth. accomplished, and
On the surface, the on-paper specs of for that, they Provided the rest of your system is
88dB/W/m sensitivity and 8 ohm nominal deserve a place on well balanced there’s no part of
impedance suggest that these speakers the shortlist the frequency range that
won’t be too challenging to drive, but will will stick out, and
there is enough
musical drive to
satisfy when we
are listening to Major
Lazer’s Pon De Floor. Here,
these B&Ws charge along and

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 25

T E M P TAT I O N S

Fyne Audio

F1-8

Standmount speakers ₨POR

T he F1-8s complement the Large rubber
towers in Fyne Audio’s high-end driver’s surround
F1 series that represent the very is fluted for a
best the brand can do, and as a result pack “cleaner sound”
in a full dose of its technologies.
The two-way F1-8 speakers use a SOUND authoritative bass. Given a bit of space to We switch to Dvořák’s New World
coaxial driver array that puts the 25mm breathe, they turn in a terrific performance. Symphony and these Fynes respond with
magnesium-dome compression tweeter at BUILD impressive scale and the kind of wide-
the centre of the 20cm multi-fibre mid/ We start with Neneh Cherry’s Broken ranging dynamics that are rare for a
bass driver. This dual-driver design is what COMPATIBILITY Politics and love the F1-8’s exuberance. product of this type. In part, it’s the benefit
the company calls IsoFlare. This kind of They have a direct, taut sound that grabs of using a larger mid/bass driver than most
arrangement has all sorts of advantages FOR the listener’s attention. Basslines are of the competition – 20cm against the
over conventional configurations, from • Dynamic and powerful, but remain agile and tuneful usual 16.5cm. Their sound is suitably
even dispersion to allowing a degree of with it. These speakers have no difficulty dramatic but has a lovely sense of control
time alignment between the two drivers so exciting listen showing differences in texture between and composure with it. They have the
that the sound from both reaches the • Work well across different low-frequency sounds and can insight to let us home in on any particular
listener at exactly the same time. This track multiple bass strands with ease. They instrumental strand but would prefer us to
bodes well for focus and precision. all volume levels are excellent at communicating the look at the bigger picture and enjoy the
The larger driver’s rubber surround has • Excellent build emotion in Cherry’s vocals and can convey majesty of this symphonic work.
notches all the way around it rather than subtle shifts in intensity and phrasing
being smooth. Called FyneFlute, the idea and finish wonderfully. We are impressed with the The F1-8s deliver a wide and nicely
is to terminate unwanted mechanical cohesion of the presentation, and these layered sound stage. The stability is
energy in the cone more effectively, AGAINST speakers are impressively rhythmic too, pleasing and doesn’t start to waver, even
leading to cleaner, more detailed results. • Needs careful with a sense of drive that few rivals get when the recording becomes demanding.
close to. If you are looking for cold-blooded
PROPERLY WEIGHTY system matching analysis, these aren’t for you. They These Fyne F1-8 standmounters are
promote entertainment over examination. excellent speakers that prove an
The two drivers cross over at 1.8kHz and are VERDICT immensely entertaining listen.
linked with a carefully calibrated crossover Fyne’s F1-8 deliver a
– first order for the tweeter and second for terrific combination “They have the insight to let us home in
the mid/bass. The crossover is cryogenically of dynamic punch, on any instrumental strand but would
treated to remove internal stresses in the rhythmic precision prefer us to look at the bigger picture”
components, for a better performance. and insight
Sensitivity is generous at 91dB/W/m and
claimed nominal impedance is 8 ohms, so
you should get decent volume with most
price-compatible amplifiers. The curved
speaker cabinet is built of a composite
hardwood ply and covered in a lovely
walnut veneer with a burr walnut inlay on
the front to the top panels, finished in a
deep high-gloss varnish. The cylindrical
section around the driver array is covered
in high-quality soft leather. These are
luxurious-looking speakers.

An aluminium plinth at the base of the
wooden cabinet is home to the BassTrax
cone diffuser. The idea is that the speaker’s
downward-facing port fires at this diffuser,
with the sound spreading 360 degrees into
the room. It’s claimed to make the speakers
less fussy about placement. At a mere 47cm
tall, they still deliver a properly weighty and

26 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SPEAKERS

JBL “There really is no substitute for large
drive units and large cabinets if you
4349 want truly excellent deep bass”

Standmount speakers ₨POR

W hether you’re talking about the compatible amplifiers, hard to think of another
appearance or sound quality, it though we would speaker that can render
seems JBL’s 4349 Studio recommend something lows with such power
with a bit of poke. These and articulation – low
Monitors inspire love and hate in equal speakers work best when notes stop and start
given room to breathe – at with ease, and are
measures, and sometimes both. least half a metre from layered with care; every
any wall to avoid the bass sound is crisp, taut
Something of an oddity in the world of presentation being and agile. No matter
swamped by the bass. how highly engineered
high-end standmounters, they are huge, Get the toe-in angle smaller rival speakers
towards the listening are, it seems there really
measuring 74cm high and a whopping position right and the is no substitute for large
imaging snaps into focus. drive units and large
45cm wide – pretty much the size of a The distinctive But no matter what we cabinets if you want
horn is carefully do, we can’t get the 4349s truly excellent deep
small fridge. The cabinet depth doesn’t shaped to control to fully render the depth bass. Their sound has
dispersion and space recordings. If attack, drive and the
seem so excessive at 34cm, but there is no you are after holographic kind of punch that hits
SOUND stereo imaging, these are not for you. squarely in the chest. We are playing the
denying the 4349s will dominate all but music loudly, yet there is no cracking the
BUILD UPFRONT AND DIRECT 4349’s composure and no loss of control.
the largest of rooms. That massive frontage With something requiring a little more
COMPATIBILITY However, if you crave excitement above all delicacy, such as Leonard Cohen’s Thanks
is put to good use, with enough space for a else, they deliver much of a live gig’s For The Dance, the JBLs reveal a lack of
FOR high-octane energy. It’s an up-front and finesse at high frequencies, falling short in
30cm woofer, two large reflex ports and, • A thrilling listening direct listen, one that takes no prisoners both purity and sweetness. Cohen’s voice
with bright or poor recordings. It helps that lacks its usual solidity and natural warmth.
most strikingly, a carefully shaped horn for experience the 4349s come fitted with two tone There is plenty of detail resolution, but
• Exceptional bass controls to govern treble output, with we can’t help but feel that the JBLs would
the equally unusual treble drive unit. adjustments in small 0.5dB steps within rather be playing Springsteen or Nirvana.
performance -1dB to +1dB limits. The first tone control The JBL 4349s may be uneven
This tweeter is a world away from operates in the 1.5-6kHz range, the second performers, but they are pretty much
AGAINST from 5kHz upwards. unassailable in what they do well. If you
conventional dome designs. It’s JBL’s • Not the most are looking for the ultimate party speakers,
Feed the JBLs a good quality signal and it’s pretty clear to us that you have just
D2415K dual-diaphragm compression sophisticated they thrill with explosive dynamics and a found them.
performer truly wonderful bass performance.
driver, born of the D2 designs first Listening to Massive Attack’s Angel, it’s
VERDICT
developed for high SPL (Sound Pressure We can’t think of
anything better
Level), high power PA use. At the heart of than JBL’s 4349s if
you want the
this unit is a pair of 38mm ring diaphragms ultimate thrill ride,
but they do have a
made of Teonex polymer. Look at the tendency to
steamroller the
cross-section of the diaphragm and you subtleties

will find it is V-shaped, something that is

claimed to lower distortion and minimise

time smear.

That distinctive horn is made of

Sonoglass – a fibreglass-based composite

– and is carefully shaped to control

dispersion without adding much in the

way of the usual horn-induced distortion.

The tweeter crosses over to the 30cm

pulp-coned bass driver at a lowly 1.5kHz.

This bass unit is impressive, with a huge

magnet assembly and a cast rigid chassis.

It is built to generate high sound-pressure

levels and, thanks to a 75mm long-throw

voice coil and carefully engineered

suspension, delivers just that. Add two

forward-facing reflex ports, and the result

is a low-end that is claimed to extend

down to an impressive 32Hz (-6dB).

The 4349s are rated at 91dB/W/m

sensitivity and have an 8 ohm nominal

impedance. It should be possible to get

good volume levels from most price-

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 27

T E M P TAT I O N S

Wilson
Benesch

Precision P2.0

Floorstanding speakers ₨NA

W ilson Benesch has never
followed the herd. Its first
products, a turntable and

tonearm, were made using carbon fibre,

something considered exceptionally

high-tech in 1989. And it’s that forward-

thinking approach to materials technology

that has shone through ever since.

The Precision P2.0’s build quality is

excellent. The enclosure feels reassuringly Cabinets are
impressively rigid
solid and is finished to a suitably high and support the
drivers brilliantly
standard. Inside, you will find a mix of

aluminium and birch-plywood panels that

are strategically braced, carefully damped

and held together by high-tensile steel

tensioning rods. The result is an

impressively rigid and quiet box that

supports the drive units brilliantly.

You also get the same Tactic 2.0 mid/

bass and bass drivers used in the firm’s

more upmarket products. Unusually for

such a small company, these units are

designed, engineered and built in-house first order. The mid/bass unit – the upper That same ability to dig up low-level
large driver – doesn’t have a crossover at details gives us convincing instrumental
rather than bought in. They are all, being connected directly to the textures and a degree of finesse in tracking
single-wire speaker terminals. It takes subtle dynamic shifts that we haven’t
sophisticated designs featuring a die-cast considerable engineering skill to make heard bettered at this price. There’s muscle
such a combination work seamlessly. The too, with crescendos rendered with
chassis, a neodymium magnet, and a 17cm P2.0 prove a fairly conventional load with conviction and no shortage of brute force.
a sensitivity of 89dB/W/m and nominal 6 We have heard rivals with more punch,
cone made of Isotactic Polypropylene – ohm impedance, with a minimum value but nothing that combines that with this
that stays above 4 ohms. Any
claimed to give a good balance between SOUND well-designed amp should be much control and delicacy.
able to drive these, but it won’t With Alicia Keys’ Time
rigidity, low weight and damping. BUILD hurt to have a bit of grunt.
Machine, the P2.0 prove
The P2.0’s Leonardo tweeter is a 25mm COMPATIBILITY These floorstanders are musically cohesive, delivering
exceptional performers. Rarely the song’s pulsating rhythm
silk dome, as opposed to the silk/carbon FOR do we hear speakers that sound with ease.
• Exceptional so clear and transparent. We
dome used on the company’s more listen to Mahler’s Symphony These speakers are happy to
detail resolution No.2 and are transported to the let you analyse the recording,
premium offerings. It’s a development of • Impressive concert hall, the speakers’ but they make it so easy for you
excellent resolution providing to sit back and simply enjoy the
the Semisphere high-frequency unit used engineering all the acoustic clues necessary music that it would be rude not
• Excellent build to take us there. to. For us, the Precision P2.0 set
in Wilson Benesch’s much pricier the standard for floorstanders
AGAINST at this price.
Geometry series, and uses the same • Need a larger

neodymium motor system. room to shine

The tweeter faceplate is elaborately

shaped to minimise any distortion caused

by reflections of the dome’s sound output.

The claimed result is a flatter frequency

response. It is made of a carbon-reinforced

polymer and decoupled from the main

baffle to reduce distortions caused by the

vibrations generated by the larger units.

CLEAR AND TRANSPARENT VERDICT “The Precisions make it so easy for
The Precision P2.0 you to sit back and simply enjoy the
Wilson Benesch has long promoted simple are exceptional music that it would be rude not to”
crossover networks on the grounds of speakers that set
signal integrity. The tweeter uses a gentle the standards at
second order filter, while the bass driver this price
takes the simplicity even further by going

28 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SPEAKERS

PMC “The Fenestrias are wonderfully
transparent towers that deliver sound
Fact Fenestria with a deeply impressive impartiality”

Floorstanding speakers ₨POR

W e like shoot-for-the-stars PMC hasn’t forsaken its traditionally but the way these speakers handle all
products. It’s always fascinating even-handed approach to sound quality. music genres without favouritism. They
to see what a company can do The Fenestria’s presentation isn’t hyped in can rock-out to Nirvana’s Come As You Are
any obvious way in a bid to justify the high with all the attitude and attack intact, while
when the sole concern is maximising price tag. What these speakers do is far still having the composure to present
more interesting. They sound natural and Dvořák’s New World Symphony with the
sound quality. This is what the Fact subtle, displaying an extremely rare degree precision, verve and scale it deserves.
of finesse. PMC’s aim for these floorstanders
Fenestrias represent for PMC: an is to deliver the music signal as faithfully They image superbly for such large
as possible, reducing any speaker- boxes – thanks no doubt to the well-
opportunity to take a fresh look at every generated distortions to a minimum. controlled cabinet resonances – delivering
That’s why so much work was done to a huge and expansive presentation that
part of loudspeaker design and come up reduce the influence of cabinet resonances still has instruments and other sounds
and the unwanted effects of vibrational locked solidly in place.
with engineering solutions that are as free interactions between the drive units.
These PMCs dig up so much in the way
from budget constraints as they can be. DIGGING UP DETAIL of low-level detail that it’s easy to hear the
acoustic clues that describe the scale and
PMC has long had firm beliefs on all All that work has clearly paid off. The characteristics of the recording venue,
Fenestrias are wonderfully transparent making it a breeze to place the orchestra.
aspects of speaker design, so was unlikely SOUND towers that deliver the sound with a deeply
impressive impartiality. We’re not just These PMCs richly deserve a prominent
to follow a totally different engineering BUILD talking about basics such as tonal balance, position amongst the very best speakers
we have ever tested. There’s no higher
path just because there’s more money to COMPATIBILITY compliment than that.

spend. The Fact Fenestrias still use a FOR
• Effortless insight
wooden cabinet for example, though PMC
into recordings
has been highly imaginative in the way it • Astonishing

has gone about reducing cabinet dynamic ability
• Agile and
resonances. It’s also no surprise to find the
powerful bass
use of a transmission line to tune the low- • Excellent build

frequency output either. This is claimed to AGAINST
• Extremely
give lower distortion and more powerful
expensive
bass for a given cabinet size compared to
VERDICT
the usual reflex port configuration. The PMC Fact
Fenestrias are
The rest of the drive unit complement is without doubt one
of the finest
highly developed but relatively speakers we
have heard
conventional. There’s a development of
Silver aluminium
PMC’s capable 7.5cm-dome midrange (with centre section is
decoupled from the
its rear chamber to absorb unwanted rest of the cabinet

sound coming off the back of the

diaphragm) and a 19.5mm Sonomex dome

tweeter (with unusually large 36mm-wide

surround) that uses a powerful

Neodymium magnet assembly. Even the

tweeter’s grille is shaped to aid the unit’s

dispersion characteristics.

It’s the way these drivers have been

implemented into the Fenestria’s structure

that is even more interesting. They are

both attached to a small, heavily shaped

aluminium baffle that is decoupled from

the main speaker body to isolate both

higher-frequency drivers from the

vibrations generated by the quartet of bass

units. The tweeter itself is additionally

decoupled from that aluminium baffle by a

dedicated suspension system designed to

minimise any unwanted mechanical

energy from the dome midrange affecting

the high-frequency driver’s output.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 29

T E M P TAT I O N S

HEADPHONES

Sennheiser

IE 900

In-ear headphones ₨1,29,990

S ennheiser’s IE 900 in-ear IE 900’s single machined into the aluminium case. These the music’s energy superbly. They sound
headphones are a purist design, driver should operate in the 6.5-10kHz range and absorb confident and insightful, revealing layers
engineered with the singular mean improved the driver’s excess energy at these of low-level information and organising it
purpose of offering the best sound quality cohesion frequencies, leaving a much more even into a structured and cohesive whole.
possible at this level. Technical highlights balance. Even the tiny port that feeds the
include a single 7mm drive unit per earbud, SOUND driver’s sound into the ears is specially Tonally, they are well balanced, with an
an intricately machined aluminium casing, shaped to control the frequency response. expressive midrange and a real sense of
and the use of some clever resonance COMFORT verve. It’s an entertaining presentation
chambers inside that casing to improve the Pairs of drive units are matched during that is rounded enough that the music has
driver’s frequency response. BUILD the production process, so the sound from our attention, rather than anything the
Premium wired in-ears are less common the left and right channels is as consistent earbuds are doing. These are highly
than they used to be, and understandably FOR as possible. The result should be a more revealing performers, too, so if there are
so. In-ears are about portability and ease of • Detailed, articulate solid and focused stereo soundfield. issues in your source or amplification, you
use, so the rise of wireless connectivity will know about it. We strongly advise
makes perfect sense for such a product. Add sound These earphones are comfortable in use using a high-quality outboard DAC, at least
complementary technologies such as • Refined yet thanks to careful shaping, a good range of the standard of the Chord Mojo, plus
noise-cancelling and app control and the eartips, and the security provided by the good-quality music files of CD-quality or
ideal features template for such earbuds entertaining cable folding around the ears. At just 4g higher. Portable music players can also
looks set. Yet this template doesn’t put • Clever engineering each, the buds are hardly burdensome. work well, but don’t expect great results if
sound quality front and centre. If that’s AGAINST you are not using something premium.
paramount to you, then fully wired remains • Cable transmits PLENTY OF REFINEMENT
the way to go and, with that, flexibility and While the IE 900 are critical of source
convenience features go out of the window. noise The IE 900 are impressively clear and and amplification quality, they are happy
High-end in-ears invariably suffer from • No in-line remote open sounding, able to dig deep into the to play all genres of music. Provided it is
low perceived value. It’s hard for a VERDICT production of a recording. All the work recorded well, these buds will shine
manufacturer to make something like the Sennheiser’s IE 900 with the trio of Helmholtz resonators pays regardless. There is no denying that the
IE 900 look and feel as expensive as they combine off, with clean and crisp highs that still IE 900 are a pricey proposition, but
are. But Sennheiser has given it a good go. listenability, insight have plenty in the way of refinement. if you have a good enough source
The engineers have gone with a single and comfort, Tchaikovsky’s Marché Slave Op.31 is a and amplification,
driver rather than the more fashionable making them one of dramatic classical piece with forceful their build,
multiple-unit approach that many rivals the front runners at dynamic swings and a wonderful sense of engineering and
take. The advantages of this are improved this elevated price momentum. These Sennheisers capture sound quality
cohesion and better phase performance. A more than justify
single unit has no need for a crossover, so that hefty outlay.
avoids the innate distortion of such a
circuit. Having just one drive unit to cover “It’s an entertaining presentation that is
the entire frequency band (5Hz-48kHz) rounded enough that the music has
promises a seamless sound, but it’s also our attention rather than the earbuds”
hard to design one that has a suitably even
response. Sennheiser’s solution is two-fold.
Firstly, the 7mm diaphragm is made of a
blend of polymers in a bid for rigidity and
low resonance. But not all the resonances
can be controlled this way, so three
Helmholtz resonator chambers have been

30 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

HEADPHONES

Focal “Wonderfully extended lows brim with
agility and punch, but also blend in
Utopia seamlessly with the organic midrange”

Over-ear headphones ₨3,99,999 The Focals are an If you want to hear these Utopias at their Adele’s Hometown Glory highlights that
open design – so best you’ll have to feed them with a quality midrange further. Her voice comes across
B est known for its wide-ranging find somewhere signal. While we are all for using phones with power and emotion, while the
and talented speakers, this quiet to listen! and tablets as music sources, it means instrumental backdrop is organised and
French manufacturer has been you’ll only get the loosest idea of what the cohesive. The Focals reveal the build-up in
plugging away at headphones for a number SOUND Utopias can do. musical tension superbly, thanks to their
of years now, without ever making the kind startling insight and sonic stability. These
of impact that would get the big players to COMFORT SENSE OF AUTHORITY Focals are revealing but don’t go out of their
notice. Focal’s headphones have been way to highlight the harshness in a
mostly middle market and solid as far as BUILD We start with Light Of The Seven from the recording. This nicely judged balance
sound is concerned, but nothing in the Game Of Thrones OST and like their means the Utopias work well across a wide
company’s catalogue prepared us for the FOR natural unforced balance. It’s so precise range of recordings. We’re left a little
arrival of the Utopias. The company has • Superlative and information-packed without ever breathless with the energy on show with
never made headphones as pricey as these, sounding over-analytical. The Utopias are Kendrick Lamar’s King Kunta, as well as the
or anything with so much ability. resolution and refined and wonderfully smooth detail resolution. Throughout the test we
The 40mm Beryllium drive-unit covers transparency performers that still have enough in the find that the Focals reveal elements of a
the frequency range from 5Hz-50kHz, and • Excellent way of bite to satisfy. There’s a lovely sense recording we have never heard before.
is shaped to deliver exactly the kind of dynamics of weight and authority to their sound,
dispersion the engineers wanted. The • Plenty of finesse and the ability to deliver huge dynamic Sometimes this gives us a new view of
material’s combination of low weight, sweeps with composure. It’s a spacious the music being played, other times they
rigidity and damping works well. The use AGAINST presentation, where each instrumental simply embellish what we already know.
of a single drive unit doesn’t give much • Price puts it strand has space to express itself. Either way, these headphones are mightily
room to tailor performance. There’s no talented. Focal has aimed for the moon
crossover to adjust or multiple drivers to beyond the means Tonally, things are nicely balanced, with when it comes to performance, directing its
balance, just the cone material, diaphragm of most no part of the frequency range getting flagship offering straight at the very best
shape and surround to play with. If there’s • Demands top undue emphasis. Focal has avoided the
some drive unit flaw it can’t be hidden and quality partnering current trend towards excessive the headphone establishment
is harder to correct. Fortunately, Focal has equipment bass. What we get instead can manage.
been developing drive units for decades, here are wonderfully
so if anyone can make a single driver VERDICT extended lows that
configuration work properly, it can. Unarguably one of brim with agility
The Utopias are an open design – a help the finest pairs of and punch, but
for the engineers tasked with getting them headphones on the also blend in
to sound good, but a pain for everyone planet with a price seamlessly
who hears Born To Run as you rock out. tag to match with the
Openness goes both ways, and all sorts of organic
noises can intrude on your experience if midrange.
you don’t find a quiet place to listen.
They are comfortable, despite a weight of
490g, with a careful shaped, nicely padded
headband and a sensible distribution of
mass. Both the headband and nicely
cushioned memory foam earpads are
covered with some wonderfully tactile
lambskin. The open design means long
listening sessions don’t end with hot,
sweaty ears, either. These Focals are built
beautifully, combining leather, carbon fibre
and metal to produce a product that feels
like it will last for years. The earpads are
easy to replace, which bodes well for a
product that should be in use for decades.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 31

T E M P TAT I O N S

Stax

SR-L700 Mk2 /
SRM-700T

Over-ear headphones ₨1,19,990 (SR-L700 Mk2)

tax launched the world’s first The Stax’s MacBook Pro. The laptop is loaded with presentation. There’s an unusual sense
rather Cyberman- Audirvana music-playing software and of ease as the music becomes demanding,
S electrostatic headphones in like design is hi-res files, as well as having Tidal access. as though the Stax combo doesn’t even
1960, laying the foundation for certainly striking need to work hard to achieve such
a richly deserved and glittering This Stax pairing delivers one of the most stellar results.
reputation that continues to this day. SOUND detailed headphones performances we
There are two parts to this set-up: the COMFORT have heard. It sounds so clean and precise Dynamic shifts are rendered in a smooth
SR-L700 Mk2 headphones; and the BUILD that we can take apart a complex recording and fluid manner and the pairing’s
partnering SRM-700T energiser that drives such as Radiohead’s In Rainbows without refinement is insightful enough to show
them. You cannot use a conventional effort. Every note and sound is crisply every flaw in the recording but refuses to
headphone amplifier with electrostatic defined and can be tracked with ease. over-emphasise shortcomings.
headphones, as the voltages required are
far higher than usual. These headphones There’s an impressive degree of agility, Music that should thrill, whether it’s
are strictly for domestic use – their design matched with utterly convincing clarity. Stravinsky or Radiohead’s 15 Step, tends to
is simply too large and cumbersome for Thom Yorke’s vocals come through with become something to dissect and study.
portable use, and the need for an energiser subtlety and texture. We can feel every For all its excellence, the final result is a
means that mains power is a must. word, as his passion flows on the sparse little clinical. But, equally, if you want to
These headphones may not be discreet, and haunting Videotape. The result is as hear every shred of information in a
but they are wonderfully comfortable. At natural and unforced as we’ve heard in recording, we haven’t come across a better
just over 370g, these Stax are pretty a pair of headphones. way to do it, regardless of price.
lightweight for high-end headphones. And
those bluff-looking rectangular earpieces fit With Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring we
our ears well, having just the right amount are transported to the concert hall. As with
of padding to make a good seal. The all headphones, there’s no true stereo image
open-backed design leaks sound and – the vast majority of recordings are
provides no meaningful isolation from our engineered to be heard with speakers
surroundings, but it does prevent our ears placed in front of the listener, rather than on
from getting hot over longer listening either side of the head – but we still enjoy a
sessions. And, let’s not forget, there is the wonderfully open and spacious
sonic advantage an open design brings.

CLEAN AND PRECISE FOR “The performance sounds so clean
• Breathtaking and precise that we can take apart a
Build quality is good, though it would be a complex recording without effort”
stretch to call the SR-L700 Mk2 luxurious. clarity
They are all about functional engineering, • Class-leading
with materials chosen to do a specific job
rather than to impress by their appearance transparency
or feel. The SRM-700T energiser sports a • Open, spacious
more conventional design than the
headphones, and has two inputs – presentation
balanced XLR or standard RCA – and a
rotary dial on the back panel that switches AGAINST
between the two. There’s also a volume • Sound lacks a
bypass if you want to integrate your
headphone listening into the main stereo bit of drama
system, though that involves leaving the
energiser in the signal path between the VERDICT
source and your main amplifier, even If you are looking
when the Stax aren’t being used. for high-end
headphones, this
There isn’t a DAC inside the SRM-700T, Stax pairing has
so we add a Chord Hugo 2 into the signal to be heard. It is
path when listening to music on our astonishingly good
in so many areas

32 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

TEMPTATIONS: HEADPHONE AMP

HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER

McIntosh “The piano’s harmonically rich sound
comes through with textures and
MHA200 dynamic expression intact”

Headphone amplifier ₨3,23,900

he MHA200 headphone A removable single four-pin balanced XLR, and two authority. The harmonically rich sound
cage protects the three-pin XLRs for a balanced connection comes through with textures and dynamic
T amplifier is a cute little thing. amp’s valves from with separate left and right signal paths. expression intact. We love the way the
Its footprint is broadly that of prying fingers It’s not optimal to connect two amp communicates the quiet space
a decently sized paperback, yet it still headphones at once. That noted, we use a between notes and the way it ties those
manages to pack in all the charm and SOUND range of headphones without issue. notes together with musical conviction.
presence we have come to expect from a
McIntosh product. BUILD The MHA200 feels solid and built to Tonally, it’s on the full-bodied side of
This is a mains-powered analogue last. There’s a degree of valve management neutral, yet the MHA200 comes across as
headphone amp. You won’t find any fancy FEATURES to ensure that they aren’t unnecessarily sounding determinedly three-dimensional
DAC tech or, heaven forbid, anything that stressed during use, so the sound is muted and solid compared with most alternatives
resembles wireless streaming. And that’s FOR on initial start-up (while the valves glow we have heard. We switch to Drake’s
fine with us, because the MHA200 • Refined, rich and green) until things have stabilised. Underground Kings, and the McIntosh
remains a carefully considered product for takes it all in stride, producing a punchy,
those who want to make the most of their insightful LUSH SOUNDING powerful sound that gets to the heart of
domestic wired headphones. presentation the music. There’s an impressive degree of
There are valves at the heart of this unit • Expressive There’s so much to like here. The MHA200 resolution that lets us track low-level
– four in total – made up of a pair of 12AT7s dynamics shares obvious sonic DNA with McIntosh’s instrumental strands with ease and the
in the driver stage and 12BH7As in the • Excellent build best full-size efforts. This little box turns in composure to keep things under control
power stage. These run warm and are and finish a lovely, lush sounding performance – it even when the music gets demanding.
usually protected from prying fingers by a sounds smooth but far from lifeless,
removable cage. Next to the valves is a trio AGAINST delivering high levels of detail in a This is a product that invites long
of transformers: one for the mains and two • Volume control cohesive and musical manner. listening sessions. Its insight, coupled to
that couple the amplifier’s output valves to class-leading refinement and a total lack of
the connected headphones. As with most operation lacks We listen to Beethoven’s Moonlight unwanted hardness, make for something
valve products, a certain amount of care linearity Sonata and the MHA200 renders the piano that can be enjoyed for years to come.
has to be taken over matching. Here, that with an impressive degree of solidity and
takes the form of a front panel control that VERDICT
switches between four load options: 32, The McIntosh
100, 250 and 600 ohms. Simply switch to MHA200 is
the one that’s closest to the nominal charming to use and
impedance of your chosen headphones for a hugely capable
the best results. performer across a
There are two inputs – balanced XLR wide range of
and single-ended RCA – but the amplifier headphones
isn’t designed for both to be used at the
same time, as there’s no provision for input
switching. The source doesn’t have to
come with a built-in volume control either,
as this McIntosh already has one. There’s a
crisp indent to the volume control’s
movement at the 12 o’clock position – the
best place to leave it if you’re running a
source that does have volume control.
There are three ways to connect your
headphones: a standard 6.3mm option, a

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 33

T E M P TAT I O N S

STREAMERS

Moon

680D

Streamer ₨NA

usic streamers from the likes Nine digital inputs easy-going nature means it doesn’t tend Masters, Qobuz Sublime+ and Deezer
will accommodate to get ruffled easily. We play Hans Hi-Fi. The 680D is AirPlay 2 and
M of Linn and Naim have shown PCM, DSD and Zimmer’s The Dark Knight Rises OST Roon-ready too.
that it’s possible to have an MQA files, to (24-bit/192kHz) and the Moon delivers a
extensive features set and still deliver 32-bit/384kHz large-scale and sumptuous sound. Sonically, the balance matches what
great sound – and this Moon product we hear through the digital inputs.
reinforces that. You’ll find no shortage of SOUND There’s also a trace of extra warmth to There’s the same grace under duress, and
connectivity here – there are nine inputs the sound compared with hard-line a cultured delivery that works well
in total, including aptX Bluetooth. BUILD neutral alternatives, such as the pricier across a range of recordings and genres.
We are impressed with the care taken dCS Bartók. That warmth isn’t overdone; It’s an engaging listen, though given the
over the circuit layout and power-supply FEATURES it simply adds an attractive bloom to the expectations of the price point we still
arrangement. The 680D uses Moon’s sound, making it less demanding to have questions over its dynamic punch
MHP (Moon Hybrid Power) module, FOR listen to over longer listening sessions. and ability to communicate the
which mixes both traditional linear and • Refined, momentum in a piece of music. These
switch mode technologies to deliver a Instrumental textures come through shortcomings are more obvious here
stable, low-noise and power-efficient well-imaged convincingly and it’s easy enough to than when using other digital sources.
energy feed to the signal circuitry. presentation follow subtle musical strands. It’s rare to
Each of the nine digital inputs feeds • Articulate and hear a network streamer render an The streaming module is essentially
into an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate fluid midrange expansive and layered soundstage while the same as that used in Moon’s Mind 2
Array) that identifies the file type and • Fine build populating it with such tightly focused network streamer and is a good
re-clocks the signal accordingly. We have and finish instruments. Everything stays stable performer. Whether it’s a good enough
no complaints with file compatibility, even when the music becomes busy. source to make the most of the ambitious
which is up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and AGAINST DAC design is open to question.
DSD256 files and should cover pretty • Needs more While loving its civilised approach, we
much everyone’s music file collection. can’t help but wish for more muscularity Regardless, there’s no denying that the
sonic punch when it comes to expressing dynamic 680D remains a strong performer. It’s
TIME BRINGS GAINS • Bluetooth not contrasts and punching out crescendos; slick in use, nicely made and built with
it sounds a touch restrained on occasion. care. We have no complaints about file
The Moon 680D sounds pretty good aptX HD compatibility, and are huge fans of its
from cold, but improves considerably Alongside the ability to stream music refined sonic nature. At the very least it
over a few weeks of use. Given time, it VERDICT files from a NAS drive on your network, deserves a place on the shortlist.
becomes clearer and more transparent, Moon’s 680D the app also provides access to Tidal
gaining an appreciable amount of streamer couples
openness in the process. refined sound “There’s the same grace under duress,
and fine build and a cultured delivery that works well
The digital inputs prove remarkably with a generous across a range of recordings and genres”
consistent. Many high-end companies feature set
struggle to make their USB inputs sound
as good as the others.

Regardless of input, the sonic
signature is familiar. Moon kit has always
been smooth and refined and this
streamer has a friendly, accommodating
balance – one that isn’t easily provoked
by bright or aggressive recordings.

That doesn’t mean the 680D isn’t
revealing – it is a wonderfully detailed-
sounding product – but rather that its

34 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

STREAMERS

Linn “It’s pretty obvious that this is an
exceptional product that sets new
Klimax DSM AV standards in the streamer category”

Streamer ₨45,00,000

L inn has been in the streamer SOUND Once the DSM is given a few days to The Organik
game longer than most, and it settle it’s pretty obvious that this is an circuitry is Linn’s
shows in the sophistication and BUILD exceptional product that sets new first in-house
quality of the Klimax DSM. There are standards for the streamer category. DAC design
three variants: a two-channel version; a FEATURES
System Hub that works in an all-Linn Time and time again we hear new crunchers on the market when it comes
set-up; and the AV variant we have on test FOR details in recordings that we have been to insight and organisation. Importantly,
here. This sells at the same price as the • Exceptional using for years and know well. When we it is musical too and makes the most of
music-only version but adds four HDMI listen to an old favourite like Arvo Pärt’s the range of sources we use. Sometimes
2.0 sockets and a single e-ARC-equipped transparency Tabula Rasa we are far more aware of the we find that the USB input on a DAC has
output to an extensive features list. and detail recording venue than before, thanks to a different character to either the coaxial
Specify the optional surround sound • Impressive the clarity with which the Linn resolves or optical, but that is not the case here.
module for an extra and it can decode all dynamics the low-level ambience information. Even wireless connections such as
the current movie sound formats bar • Excellent Bluetooth and AirPlay sound good.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. organisation We’re astonished by how convincing
To get surround sound out of the and control the instrumental textures are and the The analogue input performance is
Klimax AV, though, you must invest in skilful way the Klimax renders subtle one of the few areas we find less than
Linn’s ecosystem, using a complete 7.1 AGAINST changes in dynamic intensity. There’s satisfactory. We find them lacking the
active set-up with the proprietary Exakt • Price puts it out of plenty of muscle when required, but the subtlety and expressiveness of the
digital link, or using a combination of the whole presentation is also infused with digital inputs. They are perfectly
DSM’s stereo analogue outputs and Exakt the reach of most breathtaking subtlety. serviceable, but they don’t show the unit
connections for a hybrid passive/active • Analogue inputs at its considerable best.
set-up. Either way, it’s huge money. We switch to Massive Attack’s
The DSM is most accurately described could sound better Heligoland and the streamer’s authority Some people will never get past the
as a streaming preamplifier. The big tech in the bass is absolute. We haven’t come Klimax DSM AV’s huge price tag and we
highlight is the Organik digital-to- VERDICT across a rival that delivers bass with such can understand that. But if you’re lucky
analogue circuitry, Linn’s first in-house When it comes to grip, depth or power. enough to contemplate spending this
DAC design. The Field Programmable insight, clarity much on a streamer, we say dive right in.
Gate Array (FPGA) processing employs and dynamic We try out the Linn’s digital inputs and It currently represents the state of the art
bespoke algorithms for things such as expression, Linn’s are pleased to report that the Organik when it comes to streaming sound.
upsampling and signal modulation while exceptional DAC circuit performs superbly. It’s right
the partnering conversion stage aims to range-topping up there with the very best number
minimise distortion through low jitter Klimax DSM is
and short signal paths. second to none

ALL-R0UND IMPRESSIVE

The Klimax DSM’s casework, machined
from solid aluminium, is impressive. It is
carefully damped to reduce the impact
of external vibrations. The hefty overall
mass of 16.4kg helps in that cause too.

You will find six assignable switches
on the front top edge. Each of these can
be programmed as a shortcut to a
specific music source or input.

The Klimax has to be configured using
the Manage System software, accessed
through the Linn website. This is also the
place to access Linn’s Space Optimisation
room correction software.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 35

T E M P TAT I O N S

DACs

Bricasti while there are the usual
constraints to coaxial and AES/EBU
Design M3 (both 24-bit/192kHz and DSD64). Optical
is the most limited at 24-bit/96kHz PCM
DAC ₨NA and no DSD compatibility.

The M3’s casework The network module is a pretty basic
uses precision- affair, being a strictly wired DLNA network
machined player. There’s no dedicated app, so you
aluminium panels will have to go with a third-party option to
make it work. We use the full-fat
R eflecting the company’s work SOUND MConnect app, but there are plenty of delivers a
in the pro sector, the Bricasti options available – many of them free. This sea of fine
Design M3 comes across more as BUILD frees Bricasti from having to develop and detail and manages
a working tool than any sort of statement maintain an app – a major undertaking for to organise it in an understandable and
of luxury. This is a real point of distinction FEATURES most companies, let alone one this small cohesive way. It’s easy to track low-level
from most rivals, which tend to put a – but does mean that using the M3 instrumental strands during the dense
greater emphasis on extravagant styling or FOR streaming section feels less slick than the parts of the symphony and it’s a pleasure
being flamboyantly built. • Balanced, alternatives from the likes of Naim or Linn. to hear the natural and convincing
The M3 DAC’s sturdy casework uses rendition of instrumental textures.
thick, precision-machined aluminium insightful and The M3’s control layout is simple with
panels, right down to the bottom plate. Fit controlled the smooth-turning rotary control being Given a suitable recording, this DAC
and finish are straight out of the top • Modular nature used to alter volume level or work through has no trouble rendering a wonderfully
drawer, adding to the impression that this • Impressive build the relevant menu options. The unit’s expansive soundstage; one that’s packed
is a component that can withstand years of and finish display is relatively large and easy to read with precisely located and believably
use without complaint. from the other side of our test room. layered instruments. The stereo imaging is
The engineers have followed a AGAINST wide and airy, laying the orchestra out in
distinctive path when it comes to the • Underplays EVEN-HANDED front of us with a pleasing sense of scale.
circuit design. PCM and DSD digital signals
have separate signal paths, with a pair of dynamic Those looking for an overtly exciting Judged by the highest standards, we’d
Analog Devices AD1955 D/A converters expression and presentation won’t find that here. The M3 like a little more dynamic expression. There
coming into play for the former. The rhythmic drive doesn’t set out to flavour the sound to add are occasions where we know the original
company says that the M3 has a proprietary • Remote a to the entertainment. It renders music in a recording has more in the way of punch
DAC solution to handle the single-bit pricey option slightly detached, analytical manner that and attack but the Bricasti underplays
signal, claiming great care has been taken • No wi-fi or takes a little while to warm to. But, once things a little. The Stravinsky symphony
to minimise jitter to get the best results dedicated acclimatised, we appreciate the even- can be savage in its dynamics and
regardless of digital signal type. streaming app handed manner of the sonic delivery. rhythmic drive; through the M3 it sounds
Elsewhere, we have separate linear a little more restrained than it should be.
power supplies for the digital and analogue VERDICT Asked to play something as demanding
circuitry in order to reduce unwanted The M3 is a hugely as Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring, the DAC The M3 is the kind of product that takes
interactions, and a dual mono circuit capable performer time to appreciate. Its unvarnished
design that helps stereo imaging. It’s clear with an insightful presentation doesn’t have the thrilling
that much effort has gone into reducing and even-handed nature of the sound delivered by some
overall noise and distortion levels. sound that will rivals, but a longer listen brings its insight
There are the usual digital inputs – micro appeal to many and impartiality to the fore, and these are
USB, coaxial and optical – augmented with important qualities in music replay.
an AES/EBU input, a balanced digital
connection that’s more commonly found “The stereo imaging is wide and airy,
in the studio environment than the home. laying the orchestra out in front of us
Its inclusion is another nod to Bricasti’s with a pleasing sense of scale”
involvement on both sides of the audio
fence. There’s also an ethernet port for the
network module, but no wi-fi.
The USB input accepts 24-bit/384kHz
PCM and DSD256 signals. The network
module drops the DSD limit to DSD128,

36 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

DIGITAL-TO-ANALOGUE CONVERTERS

dCS “The Bartók doesn’t short-change on
the emotion front, delivering songs
Bartók with simmering passion fully intact”

DAC ₨NA

T he Bartók streaming DAC is the dCS developed A) for playing music files stored on a flash deeply analytical sound, one that’s
product of a small high-end its own drive. The network connection is through brimming with detail and presented in an
digital specialist that refuses to converter an ethernet cable only; there’s no wi-fi unvarnished way. If the source material is
cut corners with engineering and build. technology, here – though we always recommend poor, you will know all about it – there’s no
When it comes to digital-to-analogue called the hardwiring on stability grounds. There are embellishment going on here.
conversion, dCS sits at the top table. It has Ring DAC analogue outputs (RCAs and balanced
quite some pedigree, pioneering high- XLRs) but no analogue inputs, so the Given a good recording such as Eric Bibb
resolution conversion in the late-1990s SOUND Bartók can’t be used as a preamplifier in a And Needed Time’s Good Stuff, this unit
and implementing DSD capabilities in its mixed analogue/digital system. You also sounds wonderfully stable and focused. It
products early on. BUILD have the option of connecting to an has an impressive sense of control that
From the beginning, dCS has refused to outboard master clock. The one built into doesn’t diminish when things get difficult.
do things the easy way; rather than buy off- FEATURES the Bartók is good, but in our experience, if The DAC never sounds stressed, allowing
the-shelf DAC chips from the likes of Burr you add a top-quality external unit such as the listener to relax and simply enjoy the
Brown, it developed its own converter FOR the ones dCS makes, sound quality takes a experience. It is superb with voices,
technology called the Ring DAC. This uses • Analytical but leap forward. Such clocks cost thousands rendering Eric Bibb’s rich vocals with the
a combination of Field Programmable Gate though, so it’s not a cheap upgrade and texture and subtlety they deserve. The
Arrays (FPGAs), an innovative circuit entertaining certainly not essential here. Bartók doesn’t short-change on the
topology and sophisticated in-house sound emotion front, delivering songs such as
software to deliver number-crunching • Headphone SONIC TRANSPARENCY Where The Green Grass Grows with
capabilities the firm feels are beyond those output simmering passion fully intact.
available from bought-in alternatives. • Exceptional build We start our testing by using the Bartók as
The Bartók also packs a UPnP streaming and finish a music streamer, and it turns out to be a It’s a pristine presentation built on
module, which means it can play music highly capable performer. The results are clarity and precision, but that doesn’t
across a home network and access AGAINST impressive whether we play music from a mean that the Bartók doesn’t know how to
streaming music services. Internet radio, • A pricey NAS unit, use Tidal or Airplay. There’s have fun. Play Massive Attack’s Paradise
Apple Airplay and Roon compatibility are more than enough sonic transparency to Circus and the dCS proves surefooted
also on the menu, controlled through the proposition make any qualitative differences between rhythmically and pounds out deep bass
company’s dedicated and relatively slick the signal feeds obvious. with authority. These low notes are lovely
Mosaic software app for iOS and Android. VERDICT and packed with power, weight and agility.
As we would expect, the headphone The Bartók is well Transparency is the word we keep
circuit is no afterthought. It has been equipped and coming back to. The Bartók produces a In terms of tonality, the Bartók is about
carefully developed from the ground up to superbly made, but as neutral as they come. No part of the
work with a wide range of headphones and most importantly, it frequency spectrum is emphasised and it
deliver plenty of drive with low distortion. sounds great all sounds in balance. Yet, in a well-
Overall, the Bartók’s connectivity is matched system, the presentation still
good. There are seven digital inputs: a USB avoids sounding bland and sterile, which
(type B), optical and coaxial (RCA and BNC) is a neat trick.
alongside two AES/EBUs and a USB (Type
We try the digital inputs and find the
Bartók makes for a terrific standalone DAC.
All the impressive qualities we note when
using the streaming module are present
and accounted for here. It’s a hugely
capable number cruncher and is easily
among the best available on the market
anywhere near this level. The Bartók’s
insight, dynamics and refinement are
straight out of the top drawer.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 37

T E M P TAT I O N S

CD PLAYERS

Marantz

SA-10

CD player ₨5,39,120

hose with long memories will At 18kg, this CD they sound bolder and obviously more An SACD of Eric Bibb and Needed Time’s
player is heavier dynamic than the single-ended option. Good Stuff shows a notable improvement
T remember the superb CD-94 of than some in detail levels and subtlety, which makes
the late 1980s and the CD-15 that premium amps Those who love to tweak can adjust the us regret that the format never made the
followed it, or more recently, the revered amount of dither added to the signal during kind of impact its performance justifies.
CD-7. The company doesn’t often produce SOUND digital-to-analogue conversion, alter the Here the Marantz’s smooth tonality works
top-end disc players, but when it does they type of noise shaping applied and change perfectly, making the most of Bibb’s rich,
are usually done right. Notice we say disc BUILD the digital filter used. It takes a while to textured vocals and tight backing band.
rather than CD player, as the SA-10 also work through these, and for the most part The SA-10 has a wonderfully fluid way
reads SACDs and DVD-ROMs. File FEATURES the differences are subtle enough to come with voices, sounding confident and
compatibility from disc is impressive, from down to taste and system matching. natural. Rhythmically, it is surefooted
24-bit/192kHz FLACs and DSD128 all the FOR rather than overtly enthusiastic, but it
way to ALAC, AIFF and MP3s. • Refined, CARE AND COMPOSURE still manages to convey the changing
Marantz’s own SACD-M3 transport was a momentum of the music well.
considerable investment for the company, informative sound We start with a CD of John Williams’ Saving
designed to read the music data off the disc • Fluid dynamics Private Ryan OST and the Marantz has a The good news continues through the
as accurately as possible first time around. wonderfully clean presentation, sounding digital inputs, where the Marantz’s blend
Here, Marantz has taken the opportunity to and excellent as though distortion levels are of detail, finesse and smooth tonality
revise the entire signal path and come up stereo imaging exceptionally low. There’s a stunning works well across a broad range of music
with a new digital-to-analogue section too. • Terrific build amount of detail and it is organised with from Nick Cave’s atmospherically charged
Called Marantz Music Mastering, it and finish care and composure. We are struck by the Push The Sky Away (16-bit/44.1kHz) right
incorporates elements of the single-bit way the Marantz renders the instrumental through to Michael Jackson’s Thriller
conversion used in the past, but with new AGAINST texture, and the subtlety with which it (24-bit/176.4kHz) and Hans Zimmer’s The
filtering techniques and up-conversion. • iPhone tracks small-scale dynamic changes. Dark Knight Rises (24-bit/192kHz).
Marantz has long been a master at
getting the most out of its circuits, and here compatibility is This player doesn’t hold back as the Even the headphone output is good.
you will find high-quality components and limited to iPhone 6 orchestra builds, delivering plenty in the Marantz has put considerable effort into
extensive shielding combined with or earlier way of scale and authority. We are pleased getting this to perform well and it does,
sophisticated power-supply arrangements. with the solidity of the presentation and mirroring the line level output’s clean,
This may be an expensive product, but it’s VERDICT with the way it never sounds cluttered or refined and engaging sound. The SA-10 not
obvious where the money has gone. The The SA-10 is one stressed. This is a wonderfully refined only has a dedicated volume control for
casework is immensely rigid, well damped of the best digital performer, with a sweet and smooth headphones but also has a range of gain
and superbly finished. This player weighs source components disposition yet plenty in the way of bite. settings to help headphone matching.
in at just over 18kg, which is heavier than around, and
some premium amplifiers. by high-end The Marantz’s ability to float a stereo We are in no doubt that the Marantz
Disc drive aside, you can access the standards it is imaging is equally impressive with the SA-10 is a brilliant digital source
player’s internal digital-to-analogue aggressively priced SA-10 casting a wide, deep and spacious component and one of the finest disc
circuitry through USB (type B), coaxial and soundstage populated with securely players we’ve come across.
optical digital inputs, or you can play located instruments.
music from a USB memory stick.
File compatibility goes up to “We are pleased with the solidity of the
32-bit/384kHz PCM and quad DSD for the presentation and with the way it never
USB (B) input and 24-bit/192kHz for sounds cluttered or stressed”
everything else. The analogue outputs are
singled-ended RCAs and balanced XLRs. If
possible, use the balanced connections, as

38 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

CD PLAYERS

Audio “We are pleased with the attack of the
Research electric guitars and the way the player
drives the song with such enthusiasm”
Reference CD9 SE

CD player ₨POR

W ith its top-loading design, CD9 SE
valve-powered output stage and has Audio
hefty price tag, the Reference Research’s
sturdy ‘lab
CD9 SE is quite some statement. equipment’
look to it
The Audio Research is a substantial unit, single-ended RCA. If you have the option, acoustic, delivering enough spatial
SOUND it’s worth trying both to see which one information to make it easy to guess at the
13.5cm tall and a hefty 15kg. You will need sounds better in your set-up. As long as the size of the recording venue and the
BUILD rest of your system is up to scratch we musicians’ placement within it. Stereo
enough space to be able to top-load a disc, suspect the balanced option will win out in imaging is excellent. Instruments are
FEATURES most cases. It certainly sounds a touch precisely placed and remain focused no
and leave plenty of space around the player bolder and clearer in our experience. matter how complex the piece gets. It’s
FOR this stability and control that makes
for ventilation. This thing runs hot. • Fluid and The CD9 SE’s casework is suitably listening to this player so easy. It just lets
sturdy and we have no complaints about the listener concentrate on the music
Before initial use, you will need to fit the expressive the quality of components used in the rather than introducing anomalies that
presentation circuit. Audio Research products have prove fatiguing over the long run.
full complement of valves. Don’t plug the • Scale and almost prided themselves on having the
dynamic subtlety look and feel of laboratory equipment and We switch to Bruce Springsteen’s High
unit into the mains until after this step is • Digital inputs this CD player is no different. If you like to Hopes set and the CD9 SE continues to
think of your hi-fi as a functional tool, impress. There’s plenty of drive and power
complete – there are highly dangerous AGAINST rather than a piece of luxury electronics, in tracks such as the reworked The Ghost Of
• Finish lacks you will find much to like here. Tom Joad. We are pleased with the attack of
electric currents flowing through the the electric guitars and the way the player
sophistication STABILITY AND CONTROL drives the song with such enthusiasm.
circuitry. Both the valves and locations are • No DSD through Those expecting a valve-based CD player to
This is a hugely accomplished performer sound soft and lush are in for a real shock.
clearly marked so it’s hard to get it wrong. digital inputs that sets sky-high standards for one-box Springsteen’s voice comes through with grit
spinners. We start by trying the CD9’s and passion intact. There is natural warmth
For the tube nerds out there, you will VERDICT various filter and up-sampling options. here and the kind of dynamic nuance that
Audio Research’s The filter choice is between ‘Fast’ and only the best hi-fi manages to convey.
find four of the five 6H30s in the output CD9 SE is a strong ‘Slow’ with upsampling either on or off.
high-end choice for The decision comes down to system, There is no denying that the CD9 SE is an
stage, with the fifth working in tandem those who still love recording and taste, with our preference excellent player. If you are after a one-box
the humble swinging between ‘Fast’ with upsampling solution, we haven’t come across an
with a 6550WE in the power supply. Valve compact disc and ‘Slow’ without. Of course, there isn’t alternative that works as convincingly.
necessarily a right or wrong answer.
life is quoted at a pretty standard 4000
We play Arvo Pärt’s Tabula Rasa set and
hours for the 6H30s and around 2000 for are stunned by the CD9’s ability to render
space and scale. It renders a believable
the 6550WE. Audio Research also makes a

model called the CD6 SE. It is available for

a third less money since the circuitry uses

transistors rather than valves. Having

heard the similar last-generation model,

we suspect that it won’t sound as good.

Once we start using the CD9 SE, we are

reminded how nice a top-loading CD

player is to operate; a more interactive and

charming experience than using a

conventional CD drawer or slot loader.

Sliding back the aluminium CD door

reveals a Philips Pro2R CD transport

mechanism, which Audio Research still

considers the best dedicated option.

This player has a choice of digital inputs:

USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU.

Compatibility with 32-bit/384kHz

PCM files and multiple-speed DSD

is pretty standard at anything above

budget level. So, it comes as some

surprise that the CD9’s inputs are

limited to 24-bit/192kHz at best,

and no DSD.

The CD9 SE has the standard

pairing of balanced XLR and

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 39

T E M P TAT I O N S

Luxman

D-10X

CD player ₨POR

T he D-10X is an SACD and Casework is rigid authority. We play Arvo Pärt’s Tabula Rasa with the best in this respect) or the way it
CD-playing beast. At a vertebrae- with thick panels CD and it delivers a huge soundstage filled thumps out that distinctive, hard-
straining 22.4kg, this player is and elaborate with precisely placed instruments. There’s a charging bassline. The leading edges of
heavier than most power amps we come internal bracing pleasing sense of the hall where the notes are crisp, but never over-etched
across, and that’s down to the company’s recording was made and the orchestra’s thanks to a top-end that balances
no-compromise approach to construction. SOUND place in it. The stereo image is refinement with bite.
The casework is as rigid as they come, FEATURES immaculately layered and remains focused
with thick aluminium panels and elaborate BUILD even as the piece becomes more complex. We move to the SACD of Eric Bibb and
internal bracing. We love the company’s Needed Time’s Good Stuff and the D-10X
obsessive way with fit and finish. Each part FOR MUSCULAR AGILITY shifts between formats slickly. We are
is beautifully made and every edge lines up • Immaculate build impressed by the clarity here and the
perfectly. This Luxman costs a lot of money, This player is capable of thunder when high-res format’s more fluid nature when
but the care taken over its build goes a long and finish required too. It punches out the seismic compared to CD. There’s a lovely spacious
way towards justifying that expenditure. • Sonic authority dynamic shifts in Tabula Rasa with an quality to the recording and the Luxman
Inside, the latest version of the brand’s impressive degree of power. There’s no conveys this well, but we are left wanting a
in-house disc drive is a truly substantial and scale shortage of muscularity here or low- little more emotion through the midrange.
affair enclosed within 8mm-thick AGAINST frequency heft. This is no muscle-bound Bibb has a terrific voice, but the D-10X
aluminium sides and a 5mm-thick steel • Analytical sonic performer though. There’s a generous never quite hits the mark.
top plate. The disc drawer is a million miles dose of agility across the frequency range
away from more typical rickety plastic character may not with the Luxman responding to the signal We have no doubt that some
affairs, even in pricey machines. It feels suit all in an articulate and controlled manner. people will love the D-10X’s forensic
solid, precision made and positively glides VERDICT We’re impressed with the clarity on offer approach to music replay, revelling in
into position. Luxman has even gone to Luxman’s D-10X is a and the way the player makes it easy to the wealth of detail it renders and the
the trouble of having a separate flap that hugely capable follow individual instrumental strands. way it sounds authoritative, composed
closes behind the tray once it goes in. This digital source that’s There’s no arguing with the quantity of and controlled. Add the exceptional
flap prevents dust from getting inside the built superbly. information the Luxman reveals (it’s up build quality and finish, and it’s
unit. A nice touch. Could be more certainly worth hearing.
Luxman’s choice of DAC chip, made by entertaining though
ROHM Semiconductors, is claimed to be a “The leading edges of notes are crisp,
cutting-edge design, and the specification but never over-etched thanks to a top
certainly backs that up with 32-bit/768kHz end that balances refinement with bite”
PCM and DSD 22.4 MHz compatibility.
MQA is also on the menu. If the D-10X had
to deal only with SACD and CD there
would be no need for the internal DAC to
be so highly specified with regards to file
compatibility. But Luxman has included
digital inputs, and these make this player a
far more versatile proposition.
While the USB (type B) inputs claim
those headline-grabbing figures, the coaxial
and optical make do with an upper limit of
24-bit/192kHz for PCM, and no DSD.
A pair each of balanced XLR and
single-ended RCAs make up the analogue
outputs. There’s also the standard coaxial
and optical digital-output pairing, though
apart from recording, we can’t see why
anyone would use anything other than the
D-10X’s internal DAC circuitry.
The D-10X’s sonic presentation is
characterised by immense stability, a sea of
fine detail and breath-taking sonic

40 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

CD PLAYERS

Chord “The Chord approach is a cohesive
and musical one that puts the music
Blu MkII/DAVE DAC and its emotional impact first”

CD player ₨7,99,990 (Dave) / ₨TBA (Blu MKII)

W ant to know the best CD player
we have heard? It’s Chord’s Blu
Mk II transport combined with

its range topping DAC, the DAVE. Quality

costs – in this case a hefty ₨15 lakh+,000

for the pair. But regardless of price, we

haven’t heard a more insightful or positive side, this Chord is superbly made weight, warmth and power. There’s so
with the luxury feel we would expect. much texture and nuance on offer we feel
transparent CD playing alternative. we are hearing the song in a new light. The
TEXTURE AND NUANCE piano is convincingly rendered, brimming
We already know the DAVE DAC is The Chord Blu with authority and precision – the leading
MkII is a superbly We start our listening tests comparing the edges of notes are captured brilliantly.
brilliant, but the Blu MkII transport doesn’t made chunk of standard 44.1kHz output with the scaled
aluminium equivalent. We play Nick Cave And The We love the composure on show and
have to be partnered with it – Chord’s Hugo Bad Seeds’ The Boatman’s Call and the the layers of fine detail the Blu II/DAVE
SOUND scaled presentation is so much more combination reveals. But the Chord sound
2 (₨1,69,990) works well too. While the expressive and fluid it’s hard to believe we isn’t just about information. There is
BUILD are listening to the same product. By class-leading insight here, but that goes
transport is capable of working with all comparison the standard 44.1kHz output hand in hand with a cohesive and musical
FEATURES sounds small, cluttered and mechanical. approach that puts the music and its
DACs, you really need one that will accept emotional impact first. The Blu’s digital
FOR Once we are on the scaled output, with inputs achieve similarly high standards.
sampling rates of 768kHz to make full use • Exceptional the DAVE showing 705.6kHz, we get down
to some serious listening. Into My Arms is a Those who think all CD players sound
of it – and there aren’t many alternatives to insight, dynamics charming track with a lovely flow and a full the same are in for a shock. The Chord Blu
and overall dose of Cave’s distinctive vocals. The II/DAVE pairing delivers the most
these Chords in this respect. transparency Chord takes it all in its stride, delivering his informative and enjoyable sound we
• Well made voice with a wonderful combination of have heard from the CD format.
Why 768kHz when we are talking about AGAINST
• A little clunky
a CD transport? While it’s true that CD’s in use
VERDICT
sampling rate is fixed at 44.1kHz, Chord While it’s expensive,
there are far
has built a high-powered up-scaler capable pricier alternatives
that don’t get
of lots of clever processing to try and close. We are
sorely tempted...
extract CD’s 16 bits of data as accurately as

possible. When playing CDs, the Blu will

scale to 705.6kHz – but feed in a 48kHz

signal from an external source and it hits

the 768kHz limit. The extreme scaling and

accompanying processing is all about

reproducing the information packed into

the leading edge of notes and transients,

rather than the extended bandwidth those

higher sampling rates also give.

Chord has built its DACs on an unusual

design using field programmable gate

arrays (FPGA) loaded with proprietary

software to do all conversions and

processing duties rather than the standard

off-the-shelf chips most rivals use.

The scaling and processing in the Blu

transport are done with the latest and most

powerful FPGAs the company could get its

hands on, a chip that draws so much power

(10 amps) and generates so much heat it

couldn’t simply be added to the DAVE DAC.

The Blu has both BNC coaxial and USB

inputs, so sources other than the built-in

disc drive also benefit from the scaling.

This transport isn’t the slickest operator.

The CD lid is strongly sprung and tends to

snap into place without grace. On the

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 41

T E M P TAT I O N S

AMPLIFIERS

Copland

CSA 100

Amplifier ₨NA

C opland is one of the unsung Smart design, nice As for digital, there’s the usual trio of expansive soundstage. It’s a nicely
talents of the high-end hi-fi finish, plenty of USB, coaxial and two opticals, and the layered image with instruments sharply
industry. Despite being in features – the CSA CSA 100 is compatible with up to focused too. We are pleased with the CSA
business for almost 40 years, the 100 has them all 32-bit/384kHz PCM files and DSD128 – 100’s scale and authority, though the
company has rarely grabbed the enough to play just about any file Rega and Naim sound even more
limelight. But that has more to do with SOUND potential users are likely to have. muscular when it comes to punching out
the way the brand operates than the crescendos. The Copland counters with
quality of its products. BUILD Unusually for an amplifier of this type, sonic precision and a sense of fluidity
This small Danish company makes Bluetooth (in aptX HD form) is on the that is hugely appealing.
only a limited range of electronics (often FEATURES menu. It’s an optional extra, not fitted to
valve based) and goes about its business our review sample, and is a box we IT ALL BECOMES CLEAR
in an understated manner. Its products’ FOR would tick for anyone looking to bring
life cycles tend to be fairly long, and new • Transparent and the convenience of phones, tablets and We switch to Björk’s Homogenic set and
introductions are rare and launched computers into the equation. the differences between the Copland and
without much fanfare. So, when a new detailed its rivals become clear. This amplifier is
product does appear we are keen to have • Agile and precise If Copland’s use of a valve leads you to all about clarity. It excels in the subtleties
a listen. And in the case of the CSA 100, expect a stereotypical warm presentation, and displays a level of finesse and sonic
we are glad we did. sound you will be disappointed. The CSA 100, sophistication that puts us in mind of far
• Good range of like every other Copland product we have pricier alternatives.
WIDE COMPATIBILITY heard, doesn’t do that. It’s one of the most
features neutral-sounding amplifiers we’ve heard Our view of the amplifier stays
As far as features go, this integrated at this price, making class leaders such as positive whether we use the digital or
could be all the amplifier most music AGAINST the Naim Supernait 3 and Rega Aethos analogue inputs, and the phono stage is
fans will ever need. Despite retaining the • No display sound a little uneven in comparison. good too. Overall, the CSA 100 offers an
company’s trademark clutter-free • Needs care excellent alternative to the established
appearance, this design packs in a digital We listen to the third movement of class leaders and has an equally
module, headphone output and a phono with headphone Mahler’s Symphony No.2 and the convincing, but different, blend of
stage into its well-constructed chassis. matching Copland sounds right at home. It has a attributes – one that puts the music first.
spacious presentation and renders an
At its core is a hybrid electronic VERDICT
design, which uses a single 6922 double The Copland CSA “We switch to Björk’s Homogenic set
triode valve in the line stage feeding a 100 is a well and the differences between the
high-power MOSFET power amplifier equipped and Copland and its rivals become clear”
section. The result is a solid 100W per impressively
channel into an 8 ohm load that rises to a capable amplifier.
healthy 180W as impedance halves. It’s one of the class
leaders at this level
Those figures suggest that the CSA
100 will be able to drive most speakers to
serious levels in all but the largest rooms.
We try both our usual ATC SCM50 and
the more price-compatible KEF LS50
Meta without issues.

Connectivity is impressive. A phono
stage suitable for moving-magnet or
high-output moving-coil cartridges sits
alongside single-ended (three) and
balanced XLR (one) line-level inputs.

42 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

AMPLIFIERS

Rotel “Detail levels are high, but it’s the clean
and precise way this amplifier renders
Michi X3 that information that impresses”

Amplifier ₨5,60,900

B ack in the early ’90s, Rotel was Build quality is and coaxial available. The USB will to us, delivering all parts of the
best known as a producer of first-rate and all accept PCM signals up to 24-bit/384kHz frequency range with equal importance.
excellent-value, affordable hi-fi; components are and DSD128. The other digital inputs are
so the introduction of the high-end neatly arranged all specified up to 24-bit/192kHz. Detail levels are high, but it’s the clean
Michi sub-brand at that time was and precise way this amplifier renders
something of a surprise. A very pleasant SOUND Don’t get too excited about the that information that impresses. We
one at that, considering the exquisite ethernet socket; there is no streaming listen to Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring
build quality and remarkable sonic BUILD module built in to the X3. The ethernet is and there is no denying the power and
talents of that original range. purely there to allow this product to be punch on offer. Rarely do amplifiers at
Rather than continue as a sub-brand, FEATURES integrated into a custom install context. this level deliver such muscularity and
the Michi name was lost as its ideas and manage to combine it with subtlety if the
components found their way into the FOR Moving to analogue, we have three demands of the music change. It is also
company’s more mainstream products. • Muscular yet stereo RCA inputs alongside a balanced able to retain its refinement to well
But now it’s back and its ethos of XLR option. There is also a phono stage, beyond our normal listening levels, and
delivering sonic purity, exceptional build impressively albeit a moving magnet-only design, and its terrific bass has a fine ability to define
and excellent value remains undimmed. controlled a 6.3mm socket for headphones, too. and render low-frequency textures.
This is the baby integrated amplifier of • Taut, punchy and
a small range that includes a more agile bass Take a look inside and it’s hard not to LOCKED IN POSITION
premium one-box, a preamplifier and • Exceptional build be impressed. The level of build is
the choice of a stereo power amplifier or and finish second to none we have seen at the price, Stereo imaging is good too. While the
a more powerful monobloc model. and the components are all arranged soundstage isn’t as spacious as some we
When we call the X3 the baby of the AGAINST with obsessive attention to detail. have heard, this amplifier is still capable
range, that is not to undermine it in any • Phono stage is of layering the orchestra in a convincing
way. By most standards, this chunky Accuse a person of lacking character manner and locking the instruments into
amplifier is something of a beast. It has a moving-magnet and it’s a harsh assessment. For a piece of position, even with complex music.
claimed power output of 200W per only hi-fi though, it’s a huge positive. This
channel into an 8-ohm load and • Digital module Michi is a firmly ‘hands-off’ performer. It While the phono module’s tonal
increases that strongly to 350W per side isn’t standout doesn’t imprint a strong sonic signature character and detail is consistent with
as impedance halves. on anything it plays, leaving the what we hear through the line stages, the
In use, that means this Michi VERDICT character of the sound to come from the DAC module doesn’t quite scale the same
integrated can drive pretty much any An easy amplifier to recording or some other part of the heights, sounding a touch thinner and
price-compatible speaker to very high recommend thanks system. Tonally, it sounds even-handed notably less expressive than the line
levels without issue. A plentiful supply to its excellent build stages. We think the overall performance
of grunt isn’t even half the story. This and broad spread of is akin to a reasonably capable DAC
amplifier is also very well equipped. sonic talents solution in the ₨40k price point. Given
the quality of the phono stage and the
ONE BOX TO DO IT ALL rather tasty headphone amplifier (which
has no trouble driving our Focals and
We are firm believers that high-end Grados), we had hoped for a little more.
integrated amps should pack in as much
convenience as possible. After all, what’s Despite our high level of positivity for
the point of getting a one-box amplifier the Michi X3 as a complete package, we
if you need to add extra boxes for feel the need to emphasise the fact that
digital-to-analogue conversion duties, this is an understated amplifier. It’s not a
phono amplification or to use showy performer in any way and that
headphones? We are glad that Rotel can make it sound a little lacking in
seems to think along the same lines. enthusiasm compared with some rivals.

The headline features are a digital
module powered by AKM’s AK4495SEQ
DAC chip. There’s a good choice of inputs
with a USB (type B) and a trio of optical

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 43

T E M P TAT I O N S

Yamaha

A-S3200

Amplifier ₨POR

Y amaha’s A-S3200 isn’t quite Full of neat design
what we expected. What we touches, this amp
have here is a rather straight-
laced, all-analogue integrated that has majors on clarity
been designed in a retro way with and sonic precision
considerable care. It has sensible features
and, most importantly, performance that SOUND We are pleased with the articulate way textured. The lows are seamlessly
justifies its hefty price tag. this Yamaha delivers Beethoven’s blended into the midrange, too, thanks
The 25kg A-S3200 is a beautifully built BUILD Moonlight Sonata, a beautiful piece that to the shared agility and insight.
product, as expected at this level. Every comes through with a great deal of
panel lines up perfectly, and each control FEATURES expression, subtlety and finesse. Tonally, this amplifier stands on the
and switch works with crisp precision. A lean side of neutral, particularly through
large part of the amp’s retro vibe comes FOR DIGGING FOR DETAIL the midrange. This affects the A-S3200’s
from those twin signal meters. In • Clean and detailed ability to convey solidity and punch
practical terms they are not of much use We switch to Radiohead’s In Rainbows through these frequencies and gives it a
but we love the way they look. presentation set and are pleased to find that the more analytical presentation than most.
Take a look inside that immaculate • Impressive levels Yamaha has no trouble digging up lots of The class leaders produce a more ‘blood
casework and it’s obvious that Yamaha detail and organising it into a musically and guts’ presentation with this album.
has refused to cut corners. The circuit is of resolution cohesive whole. Tracks such as 15 Step
a fully balanced design in order to • Excellent build can easily sound messy and cluttered, We are pleased to find that the
minimise noise and improve resolution. but not through this Yamaha. It’s a A-S3200’s phono stage is a good one. It
and finish responsive performer – one that is happy sounds best through the moving-magnet
USEFUL INPUTS to charge along at full throttle when the option, delivering much of the clarity
AGAINST music demands. We are particularly and detail we hear through the line
Accepting that this is an all-analogue • Midrange is taken by the A-S3200’s bass stages. The moving-coil option hasn’t
product, there’s little to complain about performance, which is taut, tuneful and quite the same punch and verve, so if
when it comes to connectivity. There are a little lean you have a high-quality moving
six line-level inputs, including two • Presentation coil-equipped record player, consider
balanced XLR options that have small going for an outboard alternative such as
toggle switches underneath to attenuate lacks verve the Vertere Acoustics Phono-1.
the signal or swap its phase. A nice touch. • Phono stage
We have no such issues with the
Those with record players can rest needs adjustable 6.3mm headphone output, for which
easy; the A-S3200 has a switchable cartridge loading Yamaha has provided a number of gain
moving-magnet/moving-coil phono settings to allow for the variation of
stage. It’s a shame there is no electrical VERDICT sensitivity between headphone models.
loading adjustability to optimise the Yamaha’s flagship
results for any specific cartridge, but as A-S3200 integrated If you are looking for a well equipped
long as you are careful with your choice amp is a solid, high-end integrated amp, this Yamaha is
of cartridge that shouldn’t be an issue. no-nonsense choice well worth a serious look. It’s carefully
for the analogue engineered and has a hugely appealing
Elsewhere, there is a preamplifier enthusiast sense of sonic precision and clarity. There
output and the ability to connect directly are certainly more robust-sounding
to the power amp section by bypassing alternatives, but make no mistake, the
the A-S3200’s preamp circuitry. There A-S3200 is a classy performer.
are two switchable sets of speaker
outputs for those who need such things. “The retro vibe comes from those twin
signal meters. They are not of much
Beginning with the A-S3200’s line use but we love the way they look”
stages, we are impressed from the start.
This is a surprisingly clean and clear
performer that renders the leading edges
of notes with crispness without ever
veering towards sounding hard or edgy.
That’s a difficult balancing act that quite
a few alternatives fall foul of.

44 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

AMPLIFIERS

Technics “You will find a breathtaking range of
proprietary technologies that use fresh
SU-R1000 thinking to crack the amplification nut”

Amplifier ₨NA

H igh-end stereo amplification is Analogue input
one of the most conservative signals are
areas of the market when it digitised before
comes to accepting the march of being amplified
technology. It is, after all, the only place
where valves still have a foothold, six SOUND Any fears that the use of digital Using our MacBook laptop as a source
decades after transistors first started to circuitry would lead to a cold and understandably loses some of the insight
dominate elsewhere. BUILD analytical sound vanish early on. The and rhythm excellence of our high-end
More recently, digital circuitry and SU-R1000 has a big-boned and generous Naim streamer, but, through the
digital signal processing have been FEATURES presentation. It sounds smooth and a Technics’ USB input, it remains an
frowned on by some purists, simply little rich, but doesn’t take things so far engaging listen all the same.
because they are considered complicated FOR as to dilute musical excitement.
and therefore stray from the idealised • Innovative Regardless of source, the SU-R1000
‘straight wire with gain’ principle. This much is clear when we play doesn’t have the most expansive
What would those high-end engineering Michael Kiwanuka’s Mercury prize- soundstage, however. Its presentation
traditionalists make of the SU-R1000, we • Strong feature set winning, self-titled set through our Naim isn’t cluttered exactly, but there is a
wonder? For behind its clean, beautifully • Bold, entertaining streamer. The Technics sounds bold, definite lack of space around sounds and
constructed exterior you will find a rendering the sound with impressive instruments, making things sound less
breathtaking range of proprietary sound solidity and a good level of detail. layered and lacking in depth.
technologies that use fresh thinking to
crack the high-end amplification nut. AGAINST This is a muscular sound balanced Those worried about the SU-R1000’s
This is a fully featured, 150W-per- • Lacks rhythmic with delicacy and, perhaps surprisingly, a vinyl replay can rest easy. It performs well
channel integrated amplifier that comes sense of fun that the company hasn’t with both moving-magnet and moving-
with line-level, moving-magnet/moving- precision and always captured in past efforts. coil cartridges, although the plethora of
coil phono and digital inputs. It is built dynamic punch available extra processing modes does
around digital amplification, which is • Soundstaging THERE’S A KIND OF HUSH steal some transparency when we
unusual for this end of the market, so could be more engage the frequency response function,
every analogue input signal is first expansive It is an unusually quiet amplifier in terms so we decide to live with the cartridge’s
converted to digital; just the kind of of noise and hiss. We can’t hear a peep, natural (less even) presentation.
thing to get fans of analogue nervous… VERDICT even when we put our ears right next to
Connectivity is impressive. There are Technics’ top our speakers, which is impressive. This This is a brave product that pushes the
three line-level inputs, one of which is a integrated amplifier gives the SU-R1000 an inky black boundaries of high-end design in a
balanced XLR, alongside preamplifier is a breathtakingly background onto which to deliver sound. wholly admirable way. We are pleased by
outs and power amp ins, as well as a ambitious its build and ease of use too; the amplifier
record loop. There are also balanced and technological It is reasonably surefooted when it is wonderfully slick in the way it operates.
single-ended options for the MM/MC marvel, comes to delivering hard-charging Add an entertaining and informative
phono stage, though the XLR input is and an rhythms, and has enough in the way of sound and its appeal is assured.
limited to just moving-coil cartridges. entertaining dynamic expression to satisfy too.
listen too
DIGITAL CAPABILITY

For digital, there are pairs of USB (Type
B), coaxial and optical. At best, the
SU-R1000 can accept 32-bit/384kHz
PCM music files and DSD512, which
should be more than enough for most
people’s digital music collections.

As well as our usual reference testing
kit, we employ our Apple MacBook Pro
loaded with Audirvana music-playing
software to test the USB connection.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 45

T E M P TAT I O N S

Goldmund

Telos 590 Nextgen II

Amplifier ₨NA

T he Telos 590 Nextgen II This amp adds who are wary of a sterile but highly power. This Goldmund is honest and
promises high-end the warmth and detailed presentation. To those people, unvarnished, just the way we like it. If the
enthusiasts all the sonic weight missing in we say there is no need to worry. The 590 recording or source isn’t good enough,
benefits of a traditional purist separates its predecessor Nextgen II sounds natural and fluid, and you will know, but if both are on song
approach but packs preamplifier, power, delivers this Arvo Pärt piece with all the then this amp is capable of thumping out
digital module and a carefully honed SOUND verve and emotional impact it deserves. large-scale dynamic swings with venom
power supply all in a single, superbly – but no loss of composure.
built, chunky, but reasonably compact BUILD EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE
case. A compromise? By no means. We switch to Kate Bush’s Hounds Of
Despite the price, the headline FEATURES While this Goldmund’s stereo imaging Love set and the Goldmund sounds right
specifications aren’t anything special. isn’t the most spacious we have heard, at home. Here it produces an energetic
This Class A/B amplifier produces a FOR there is no denying the focus and performance, but also offers a great deal
useful 215W per channel into 8 ohms but • Articulate, precise stability in its presentation. Instruments of insight into the album’s dense and
increases that only modestly to 280W and sounds are locked into position sometimes chaotic production. We are
per side as impedance is halved. So, on sound making it easy to place the orchestra pleased with the rhythmic drive on the
paper at least, this isn’t a powerhouse. • Outstanding within the recording venue. likes of Running Up That Hill, too.
On the digital side, the on-board DAC
module can handle PCM files up to clarity and Tonally, things are as neutral as they The digital module is a good one. It
32-bit/384kHz and DSD64 natively, cohesion come. There is no added richness in the doesn’t quite match the transparency
though DSD128 is on the menu when it • Superb build midrange to imbue voices with greater and dynamic expressiveness of the line
is packaged in a PCM wrapper. All decent and finish body or an added touch of emphasis at stages but still delivers excellent results.
specifications, but easily matched by low frequencies for that extra feeling of
most outboard sub-₨50,000 digital-to- AGAINST Make no mistake, this Goldmund is up
analogue converters on the market. • No phono stage... there with the likes of Dan D’Agostino’s
In many ways this amp is as simple to • …or headphone Progression Integrated (see opposite) as
use as they come, having just two rotary one of the very best amplifiers at this
dials and a small but clear display on the output level, one box or not.
front. The control on the left cycles
through the eight inputs, five of which VERDICT “As we listen to Arvo Pärt’s Tabula Rasa
are single-ended stereo pairs, leaving the If you think we are spellbound by the amount of
digital trio of USB, coaxial and optical to integrated detail resolution this Goldmund has”
complete the quota. amplifiers are
something of a
RARE AGILITY compromise,
Goldmund’s Telos
Ours is a well-used review sample, so 590 Nextgen II is
takes no more than a couple of days good enough
before settling. Once it does we are taken to make you
aback by its capabilities. Rarely do we think again
come across an amp that tracks the
music with such agility. There is no sense
of inertia to the sound as notes stop and
start with class-leading precision.

As we listen to Arvo Pärt’s Tabula Rasa
we are spellbound by the amount of
detail resolution this Goldmund has. It
picks up the tiny details needed to
render convincing instrumental textures
and fills the presentation with a sense of
natural warmth and weight that always

. eluded the previous-generation model.
All this talk of detail and precision

. could set alarm bells ringing for those
. 46 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

AMPLIFIERS

Dan “It delivers a superb performance and
D’Agostino its modular nature means it offers far
greater flexibility than most rivals”
Progression Integrated
Stereo imaging is terrific. The
Amplifier ₨POR (incl. streaming module) Progression paints a broad,
deep and expansive
an D’Agostino Master Audio In both design wired soundstage and populates
and execution route for the it with crisply focused
D Systems (to use the company’s the Progression extra stability it brings. instruments.
full name) plays only at the top is outstanding Roon compatibility is also on the menu. We switch to Massive
table. Despite its hefty price tag, the Attack’s Heligoland and are
Progression Integrated amplifier is the SOUND The module’s on-board DAC supports
starting point for the brand’s range; but music files up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM and floored by the Progression
that doesn’t make it a diluted facsimile of BUILD DSD256, which should be more than Integrated’s low frequencies.
products further up the chain. It is more enough for most people. It also decodes They are superbly defined,
like everything the brand knows in a FEATURES MQA, so you can make the most of beautifully layered and punched
condensed package. Tidal’s hi-res Masters offering. out with rare agility.
At its most basic, this is a line-level FOR Things are surefooted rhythmically
analogue integrated amplifier. But add • Staggering clarity Listen to this D’Agostino in full flow rather than truly enthusiastic, but there
the optional digital module (as we have) and you get a glorious experience. At is enough in the way of drive and
for an extra and you get a good range of and detail this level, it is fair to expect excellent musical momentum to keep us satisfied.
digital inputs alongside network • Superb build detail resolution and superlative
streaming capabilities. transparency, and we get both. We play PRECISE YET WARM
Want to play records too? There’s a and finish Jupiter from Holst’s Planets Suite and
switchable moving-magnet/moving-coil • Modular nature are swept along with the energy and The midrange is wide open and delivers
phono stage module available and it drama on offer. Hope Sandoval’s vocals on Paradise
offers a decent range of cartridge-loading AGAINST Circus brilliantly. Her voice is rendered
options. And all of this hardware is • Headphone socket This is an amplifier that excels at in an unusually clean and precise
immaculately crafted. displaying the power and scale of an manner, though the Progression avoids
As a just-add-speakers unit, the on the rear panel orchestra in full swing. Yet, despite all sounding clinical by having enough in
Progression Integrated is a truly the sonic fireworks, it’s the Progression’s the way of natural warmth and dynamic
mouth-watering proposition. It’s a VERDICT composure and control that is most nuance to convince. .
powerhouse, no doubt. The combination The Progression is a striking. It never sounds stressed no
of discrete, balanced, direct-coupled hugely capable and matter how high the volume goes. The D’Agostino’s sonic strengths shine
circuitry with a generous power supply versatile integrated. through regardless of whether we use
results in a claimed power output of Rarely have we It’s a taut and precise presentation; analogue or digital inputs. The on-board
200W per channel into an 8 ohm load. come across an one that edges towards the lean side of streaming module holds its own against
That’s plenty, but the impressive thing is amplifier that offers neutral without becoming thin or similarly priced alternatives too, though
that the claimed power doubles as the such sonic insight lacking in tonal colour. such is the clarity of the analogue
load impedance halves. That means this and control circuitry that a carefully chosen
unit is capable of driving any speaker to (invariably pricier) premium music
serious levels without issue. streamer would deliver even better
results, as listening to the Naim
HOOK-UP OPTIONS ND555/555 PS DR through it proves.

Connectivity is good, with four balanced The D’Agostino Progression Integrated
XLR inputs, plus two single-ended is a hugely capable product. It delivers a
options (one of which would be used for superb all-round performance and its
the MM/MC phono module if chosen). modular nature means it offers far
greater flexibility than most rivals.
The digital board fitted to our review It simply must be heard.
sample is also well equipped. Buy this
and you get digital inputs – a USB type-B,
coaxial and optical – along with a
network renderer and access to the main
streaming services. The digital module
can connect to your network wirelessly,
though we always recommend going the

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 47

T E M P TAT I O N S

Audio “Unusually expressive low-level
Research dynamics, natural tonal colours and a
total lack of harshness to the sound”
Reference 6SE/80S

Amplifier ₨POR

udio Research was founded in A valve-based Moving on to the Reference 80S that you are listening to a valve-powered
pairing that power amplifier sees a similarly unit, bar unusually expressive low-level
A 1970. At that point, transistors rivals the best at functional but appealing unit. It uses dynamics, natural tonal colours and a
had already taken over the this price point four matched KT150 valves and a pair of total lack of harshness to the sound.
world of electronics, leaving valves to be 6H30s to produce a maximum of 70W
seen as outmoded and old-fashioned. We SOUND power per channel. The 6SE/80S combination is
respect the fact that the Minnesota- essentially a neutral, transparent and
based brand stuck to its principles, BUILD Unusually, this power amp can be accurate performer. It digs up plenty of
believing that valves offered the best used in two circuit configurations – detail when we listen to Arvo Pärt’s
sound quality even when pretty much FEATURES Pentode and Triode – the former Tabula Rasa, but arranges it all into a
every competitor had long moved away delivering more in the way of power, cohesive and musical whole. Rarely have
from that technology. So here we are, FOR the latter offering a more typical we heard an amplifier render this music
half a century later, listening to one of • Impressive valve-related smoothness and richness. with the musicians so convincingly
the company’s fully valve powered pre/ placed in the recording environment.
power amplifier combos. And we approve. transparency and The Ref 6SE is a line-level preamplifier
subtlety with no fewer than eight inputs split ORGANIC DELIVERY
DISTINCTIVE STYLE • Expressive evenly between balanced XLRs and
dynamics single-ended RCAs. We switch to Nick Cave and Warren
While we have long admired the • Reassuring build Ellis’s Carnage set, and this pairing
company’s functional approach to You will look in vain for a phono stage sounds right at home, its delivery
aesthetics, we are still pleased it has AGAINST or headphone socket, though you do get sounding impressively unforced and
found a way to update the appearance of • Power amplifier a neat, functional remote control. The organic here. We love the way it reveals
its products to the point where they Ref 6SE has two sets of preamplifier the coarse texture of Cave’s voice and
almost look stylish. The Ref 6SE preamp needs careful outputs, each offering a choice of projects the sound with such clarity.
presents a clean and uncluttered face to partnering with balanced and single-ended connections.
the world with a lovely, simple control speakers While not prioritising the rhythmic
layout and impressively clear display. Our usual advice about careful system aspects of the music, this combo can
VERDICT matching is as relevant here as anywhere certainly carry a tune and convey the
As with the partnering power A superb performer but – regardless of your partnering kit – if momentum of the music well.
amplifier, the Ref 6SE’s casework feels and easily one of you are expecting a stereotypical smooth
well made and robust; this kit feels as the best amplifiers and soft valve-amplifier performance, It won’t be hard to find an alternative
though it is designed to last for decades. at this price you won’t find it here. Use the Triode with a more muscular sound, but little
mode and the amplifier’s presentation we have heard at this level delivers with
Take a look through that transparent offers warmth, richness and sonic ease, anything like the transparency and
acrylic lid and you will see six 6H30 but it still doesn’t go as far as many we naturalness of this AR pairing.
valves in the Reference 6SE’s audio stage have heard. Stick to Pentode mode and
with a 6550WE and another 6H30 used there is little in the sound that suggests
in the power supply. Elsewhere you will
find that the circuit boards are packed
with quality components and built to the
standards demanded by the price.

48 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

TEMPTATIONS: PROJECTOR

PROJECTOR

JVC

DLA-NZ9 8K

Laser projector ₨24,99,000

T his JVC is the very top model in JVC’s proprietary option of high-end PCs and whatever 8K three-dimensional depth. In the close-ups,
the world’s first range of 8K Blu-escent laser demo footage can be found. it’s the former that will wow you. .
projectors fitted with 48Gbps- diodes will last up
rated HDMI 2.1 ports. That ensures that it’s to 20,000 hours It’s very difficult to get anything other We don’t recall ever seeing a projector
8K-movie ready to go and, because it’s than an excellent picture performance with this kind of skill. It feels so transparent
right at the top of the JVC D-ILA tree, you PICTURE from the NZ9. There are a few modes and and faithful to what is on the disc that there
can bet it’s going to boast a picture quality contrast enhancer options to try, but the are moments when we start to wonder
that puts your local multiplex to shame. FEATURES results they produce represent variations whether we need to upgrade to a bigger and
It’s the ultra-high contrast all-glass optics in personal taste rather than anything that better reference projector screen. The NZ9
that separate the NZ9 from the step-down BUILD is objectively better or worse. may not quite rival an OLED TV for the
NZ8. The very best that JVC produces, they intensity of black that it produces, but it’s
are assembled into a fully aluminium lens FOR FABULOUS TONE not far away. More to the point, you won’t
barrel, with a 100mm lens diameter • Sublime colour find many top-end TVs that can handle dark
achieving a higher optical brightness of Watching Rocketman in 4K HDR, the NZ9 detail quite as expertly. It makes Richard
3000 lumens – and all with the promise of production impresses in ways that we might expect. Madden’s midnight navy velvet jacket in
minimising colour fringing even when • Exquisite shading Colours are little short of sublime as we see Rocketman look weighty and soft, and his
using high lens shift. It is capable of Taron Egerton dress in a selection of Elton deep charcoal pin-stripe wool suit appear
creating an image of up to 300 inches. and dark detail John’s flamboyant costumes through the expensive and just a little bit scratchy too.
JVC uses its own Blu-escent laser diodes • Near-flawless HD ages. Everything is so effortlessly blended
as the NZ9’s light source. They provide up in tone and hue, he really couldn’t look any Switching to SDR, the NZ9 does a hugely
to 20,000 hours of working life, enough to upscaling more fabulous. The levels of shading going impressive job of upscaling Captain
watch 2.5 hours a day for 20 years. Their AGAINST on here are ridiculously fine. Part of the America: The Winter Soldier on HD Blu-ray.
output can also be precision controlled on • Motion could reason that the picture looks so easy and During the night-time hostage rescue at
the fly to provide the optimum amount of natural is because of that wonderful sea there’s no haziness or blurring to the
brightness for each frame. That forms part be smoother control of light, and that’s what brings this fast-paced action, just a thoroughly
of JVC’s own dynamic HDR technology, VERDICT projector’s real A-game of texture and enjoyable, detailed sequence. SD content
which is key given that the NZ9 does not With an effortlessly works well too. The DVD of Zombieland
support Dolby Vision (HDR10, HLG and beautiful picture, looks better than we’ve seen it at this
HDR10+ are on board). D-ILA projector this is home cinema resolution and puts some HD renders we
panel tech is at the core of this JVC. The projection at its have seen on other devices to shame.
NZ9 uses a three-chip solution of 0.69in very finest
panels that reflect the red, blue and green It’s difficult to imagine that anything
light streams to produce a 4K picture. much better than this projector exists for
It’s those two 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 sockets home cinema right now. Doubtless, when
that will provide passage for all of this 8K content becomes more accessible, we’ll
projector’s entertainment, and it’s their 8K find new ways to enjoy the performance of
potential that will appeal to cinephiles. this machine. Even now, though, this is
The NZ9 has a native 4K resolution and home projection at its very best.
uses the company’s e-shift pixel-shifting
technology to create the 7680 x 4320 “The NZ9 may not quite rival an OLED
on-screen display when desired. TV for the intensity of black that it
The NZ9 can receive 8K video inputs produces, but it’s not far away”
too. At present 8K source material is rather
hard to come by though. For the time
being, that just leaves users with the

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 49

T E M P TAT I O N S

PHONO STAGES

Nagra

Classic Phono

Phono stage ₨POR

I t’s not that this Nagra’s sound Nagra’s Classic controls. Things aren’t so convenient here; touch of additional brilliance in the treble
doesn’t match that hefty price Phono sounds the Nagra method is more hands-on. either, but rather presented in a
tag; it’s just a shame it puts this clean, neutral wonderfully natural and unforced manner.
glorious piece of kit beyond the reach of and detailed The appropriate loading components With a natural acoustic recording such as
many people who would appreciate it. have to be manually fitted. This involves Kind Of Blue by Miles Davis, it is hard to
Nagra’s products are rarely ostentatious, SOUND taking off the Classic Phono’s lid and then imagine anything sounding better than
and this phono stage presents a pretty removing a small circuit board before this Nagra. The presentation is fluid and
understated face to the world. That BUILD fitting the relevant component to it. The superbly expressive. Each instrument is
trademark signal meter, which shows the whole process takes around ten minutes. rendered with skill – the edges of notes
Classic Phono’s output level, is the only FEATURES Nagra supplies a range of the most crisply defined and carefully shaded with
visual flourish of note. The rest of the common loading options in the box. convincing harmonic richness.
fascia is as clean and uncluttered as we have FOR
come to expect from the Swiss company. • Superlative insight There are two inputs for moving magnet This superbly insightful performer is
There are a range of equalisation curves: • Sonic refinement and moving coil, and the usual single- analytical enough to let us follow any
the standard RIAA option, plus settings for • Terrific build ended RCA and XLR analogue outputs, musical strand we wish, yet still manages to
Teldec and Columbia LP – so those with though it should be noted that the XLRs present the music as a satisfying whole. The
records from before the mid-’50s can hear and finish don’t carry a balanced signal. Classic Phono displays the kind of punch
them with the correct tonal balance. • Considered and drive valve designs rarely have, coupled
There is also a mono switch, and a Given a few days of use, the Nagra’s with the naturalness, finesse and
toggle for adjusting gain. The Classic feature set sound gains notably in terms of clarity and refinement they usually do.
Phono comes with two phono modules, AGAINST transparency. Once things settle, the
one for moving-magnet cartridges and the • Wallet-withering Classic Phono delivers glorious results. We listen to a wide range of music from
other for moving coils. That gain switch Nirvana’s Nevermind to Beethoven’s Fifth
takes the base 37.7dB gain of the MM price tag RICHLY TEXTURED Symphony, and the Nagra excels regardless.
circuit and adds 10dB when switched to • Manual cartridge It has attitude and authority when the
the high setting. Similarly, the moving coil It sounds clean and neutral, and ever so music demands and shifts effortlessly to
input’s 53.9dB gain goes up to 63.9dB. That loading detailed. Just like the best transistor-based intimacy where it doesn’t.
should be enough for all but the lowest- adjustments designs but with more finesse. Even the
output cartridges on the market. VERDICT noise levels are low; we have to put our It’s pricey, but this Nagra is so desirable,
Anyone who likes to take a look inside The Nagra Classic ears close to the tweeter to hear anything so well made, so sonically capable that most
hi-fi equipment is in for a treat. The inside Phono is one of the much in the way of hiss. That detail isn’t alternatives are left floundering in its wake.
is immaculately made and the circuit is finest phono stages highlighted by harder-drawn edges or a
packed with top-quality components. At money can buy
its heart is a set of valves made up of a pair “The edges of notes are crisply
of E88CC/6922s, a single ECC81/B739 and defined and carefully shaded with
an ECC83/B759. There’s also a pair of convincing harmonic richness”
in-house transformers to provide extra
gain for the MC section. Nagra takes great
pride in making its own transformers, as
doing so ensures quality.
Many high-end phono stages make
adjusting cartridge loading easy, usually by
either manually setting a series of dip
switches on the back panel (or base), or
electronically through some front panel

50 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022