Hi-Fi World (January 2020)

OPINION






"Their 1962 UK tour was


supported by a bunch of



kids called The Beatles"






Paul Rigby

’ve touched on the notion of Trouble is, because we live Another major part of The
influence before in past col- in a society dominated by short- Beatles (and The Yardbirds, Lulu
umns. You see it all around termism, sound-bite media and plus others) was the work of the
when new singers name- restricted attention spans, our Isley Brothers (‘Just One Mo’ Time/
check their heroes and talk sense of truth, context and worth Singles As & Bs, 1960-1962’). Their
I about how this or that sing- is often buried, subsumed and song, ‘Twist and Shout’ was a major
er or band influenced their career mutated so you don’t have to be a event in rock and the career of
or current style. When an influence blind fan-boy/girl to view a popular The Beatles.
is noted, unless that person is aged musical artist in such a way. In fact this band – which would
around the age of 12, it tends to OK, I’m not asking you to span not only decades of time but
be a famous person of 60s vin- take a night-school course on the generations in terms of the group’s
tage who is quoted as the giver history of the Beatles (although line up – bestowed influence and
of knowledge: The Beatles, Stones, I wouldn’t mind attending such was influenced at the same time.
Dylan, Hendrix and the rest. a thing, I have to add) but we all While British creatives were
The issue I have with this must be aware that, as the old feeding off the talent of the Isleys,
frame of reference is this. Despite saying has it, ‘there’s nothing new a certain Jimi Hendrix (then Jimmy
the undoubted talents of all of under the sun’. James) was honing his technique as
the above mega-stars, despite the All of the above figures learned part of the Isley’s touring outfit.
changes they all brought upon from others. They were moulded The Isley Brothers would
music and how they moved their by others. They blatantly stole evolve and transform from an
particular fields forwards, there is from others (in the nicest possible R&B/Motown-a-like band to a
a danger that we see all of these way, of course) and without brilliant funk combo in the early
names as some sort of source. Like these ‘others’ they would have seventies and they did that with a
a turntable. had no chance as creative artists certain amount of influence from
There are many music fans out themselves. Jimmy Nolen (‘Strollin’ with Nolen
there that see these musical greats Such influences are - Hot Guitar, 1953-1962’) who was
as a Year One. That everything everywhere. My latest jiffy bag of known as the father of the funk
they did was perfectly sculpted, CDs from Jasmine Records (www. guitar. In fact his work backing
that their output was unique and jasmine-records.co.uk) had no James Brown was significant. ‘Papa’s
emerged from their respective trouble in offering four. There were Got A Brand New Bag’ wouldn’t be
brains in some sort of artistic Big only four in the envelope too. So I the same without him.
Bang. When that’s really not the didn’t even try to filter. Which goes Meanwhile, everyone was
case. to show how powerful was the influenced by Bob Diddley (‘Say
No blame is attributed to influence of older artists on the Man, Back Again - The Singles As &
the great names above, of course; whippersnappers of the 60s. Talent Bs, 1959-1962 Plus’). A man who
it’s not their fault. But there is was everywhere. It was ubiquitous. expanded the use and realised
an assumption by many fans and Even little-known characters the potential of the electric guitar.
music enthusiasts that these names like Bruce Channel (‘Hey! Baby His energetic style also set the
effectively leapt forth from the soil, - The Early Years 1959-1962’) were tone for axemen to come. Again,
fully formed. critical. His mid-tempo, 1962 No.1 Hendrix would have been a pale
I see this line of thought all hit spanned rock, country, blues imitation of his future self without
of the time on social media. If and more. It featured Delbert Diddley while The Rolling Stones
you ever visit a Facebook Group McClinton on harmonica. During based their attitude on the man.
devoted to a singer or band, for their 1962 UK tour, they were The Yardbirds, Animals...even Buddy
example, the people within will supported by a bunch of kids called Holly referenced Mr Diddley.
treat them as god-like figures The Beatles and one John Lennon Bottom line? If you have a
who did no wrong, can do no was madly in love with McClinton’s musical hero. No matter what time
wrong and everything they said style. To such an extent that he period you care to pick. Five will
was tantamount to holy scripture. copied it for the band’s debut hit, get you ten that they’re a complex
That’s understandable and ’twas ’Love me Do’ and many others amalgam of those who came
ever thus. after that. before.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 101



OPINION






“There must be some place


for a TV show featuring up



and coming new groups”






Jon Myles

licking through the TV (I’m ruling out the likes of The X and not the behemoth it has become
channels the other day Factor and The Voice as I see them in the 21st century.
(not something I usually do as talent shows rather than music Glastonbury 50 celebrates this
but I was stuck in a hotel programmes). extraordinary rise in both words and
room with nothing to do) It seems there is very little pictures that all reflect the central
FI came across a fascinating enthusiasm amongst senior ethos of the festival - the music, the
series of music programmes. executives to bring this sort of edgy fans, the fun, the camaraderie.
Culled from various television entertainment back to our screens. I Founder Michael Eavis and his
programmes it featured an eclectic suppose ratings will be quoted as the daughter Emily - who know runs the
mix of bands - including Alice main factor that drives what we see. event - are joined by a host of big-
Cooper, The Ramones, Iggy Pop, But surely in our crowded TV name contributors including Adele,
Talking Heads, Bruce Springsteen, schedules there must be some place JAY-Z, Dolly Parton, Chris Martin,
The Jam, The Clash, X-Ray Spex, for a new, edgy TV show featuring Julie Christie, Noel Gallagher, Jarvis
The Damned, The Undertones, Joy up and coming new groups? You Cocker, Suzanne Vega, Lars Ulrich
Division and Blondie to name but a never know, it might even garner a and Guy Garvey.
few. decent viewing audience, or at least All shed a different light on
Some of the performances one large enough to make it worth Glastonbury and what it means
were stunning - The Jam and The producing and give it a decent slot in today, plus the prestige of appearing
Undertones stand out. Best of the schedules. on-stage there.
all, though, was probably Bruce After all, where else are people It’s also packed full of hundreds
Springsteen with the most high- going to discover new music? of photos of various acts that will
energy, hard-charging piece of rock Spotify? Hardly – that’s more for bring back great memories to anyone
’n’ roll I’ve seen. people who want to hear familiar who saw them.
Actually, watching this long songs they know and love. As Emily Eavis explained
ago was what turned me onto Record shops with “With our 50th anniversary fast
Springsteen in the first place. knowledgeable staff? Well, they are approaching, we felt now was the
Seeing it again brought back many disappearing at a rate of knots. time to put all of our memories and
memories. But more fascinating still Concerts - look through the adverts stories together in one place".
was the programmes these perfor- in the newspapers or go on-line and “It’s been a total joy to look
mances were culled from. Top Of The you’ll find most are now old groups back through piles of old photo
Pops (obviously) but then the likes of reviving past glories or tribute acts. albums and scrapbooks and to
So It Goes and Something Else. Then there’s the music press reflect upon what it meant at the
Even The Old Grey Whistle – although most of that has time, and the incredible evolution
Test was in there - although there disappeared (Melody Maker, Sounds of the event. I hope people who’ve
was always a look of disdain on etc) in printed form. Of course been over the years will be able to
“Whispering” Bob Harris’s face when there’s still on-line but you have to reminisce and get a flavour of the
a band played who he clearly did not hunt them down and in my eyes a rich history of Glastonbury through
like (usually because they were punk pale shadow of the venerable printed five amazing decades”.
or new wave, didn’t play 10 minute editions. For anyone who has enjoyed the
guitar solos or weren’t Genesis). So it’s back to those old TV Glastonbury experience this book is
OK, not everything has stood shows and the hope that one day a must. Actually even for those who
up to the test of time but it made we’ll see something similar again. Or haven’t it should be an essential.
me recall how many new bands I perhaps I’m just being nostalgic. Now, if they could make
discovered by watching all these Talking of nostalgia there’s Glastonbury a year-long round
clips. a brilliant new book out at the festival and then televise the various
But what has come along to moment celebrating 50 years of stages every day then that would
replace this feast of music on TV? the Glastonbury Festival. Yes, it was make a compelling new music
The answer is not very much at all. founded 50 years ago in 1970 - programme to rival all those old
Popular music programmes have around the same time as Woodstock. classics. It would certainly keep me
very much disappeared. Especially Back then it was a small event - and I guess quite a few others -
ones that showcase new artists attracting a few thousand music fans glued to the screen.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 103

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7 Great Reasons ad Nov 2019.indd 1 05/11/2019 12:30

OPINION






"In Southend there are small


independent record shops with



vinyl"






Martin Pipe

ast column, I outlined the Album-art, specifically a JPEG will almost certainly wonder what
equipment and techniques containing a lightweight digital scan all the fuss is about. Funnily enough,
I’ve been using to digitise of the LP jacket either downloaded these ...things turn up regularly in
vinyl records – so I get from the Internet or obtained with Cash Converters!
more opportunities to an A3 scanner, can also be displayed Even audiophiles need to
L enjoy the precious music on the screens of most digital be asking themselves questions,
encapsulated within, via hassle-free players. Sure, it’s not a patch on though. A significant proportion of
audiophile-grade media players having a gatefold-sleeve to lovingly- the LPs at HMV are classic albums
and personal streaming. Nowadays, caress and examine while the – Dark Side of the Moon, Sgt.
even a smartphone with decent music plays – and indeed I miss the Pepper, Rumours and so on – safe
Bluetooth 2.0 headphones is capa- sheer tactility of the vinyl-playing retail propositions that will always
ble of passable results. Diehards experience – but for so many shift. However, they are digital
may tutter, but if their ‘golden days’ of us trapped by the increasing remasters. Basically, the master
coincided with those of the ana- demands of a workaday world (and tapes are turned into digital form,
logue disc then it’s probably safe to associated travel) it’s either that, or manipulated using some kind of
assume they’re now happily retired miss out on the music altogether. computerised DSP magic and then
and aren’t short of the spare time It’s reassuring to drop by the converted back into the analogue
that the ‘vinyl ritual’ demands. local HMV and witness how much form necessary to drive the record
Yes, I miss it. The careful floor-space is now devoted to vinyl lathe’s cutting head. Common sense
selection of LPs for an upcoming records. One feels like going back in says you’re better off skipping
listening session, the equipment time 30 years! The retailer evidently the last stage and enjoying the
checks, the cleaning of stylus and understands that in the streaming remastered output in digital form
records, the careful placement of age, it has to capitalise on the – especially if 24-bit is an option.
my first choice onto the mat, the sorts of experience that cannot be Call me a heretic, but listening to
lowering of said stylus onto the delivered in virtual form. I also note such LPs only makes sense if you
entry groove of Side 1 and the 40 here in Southend the re-emergence have the original analogue non-
minutes or so of relatively click-free of small independent record shops remastered release.
musical enjoyment – interrupted specialising in vinyl. Sure, some Everything’s going digital. We’ve
only by the need to flip over the DJs still insist in working with the seen what that means for the High
album halfway through (did anyone medium, but I can’t help wondering Street. HMV continues to struggle,
make a genuinely audiophile-class how many vinyl LPs (which HMV and as I cycle along Oxford Street
turntable able to do this automat- sells for £20 or more a throw) are I pass its now-closed flagship store.
ically?) and repetition of the latter bought as mere artifacts to hang This eggs-in-one-basket situation is
steps until musical fulfilment or on the wall while music pumps out making us dangerously-dependent
bedtime (whichever came first)... from a Sonos or Bluetooth speaker. on digitally-driven services – both
But now it’s possible to get all Audiophiles prepared to private and public-sector.
that music, without the associated invest significant sums of money And what happens to your
hassle, at the touch of a button in a decent analogue front-end music (and other important files)
or several – and with no further are comparatively rare, certainly if the ‘cloud solutions provider’ of
record wear. The thumbing through compared to how things were three your choice unexpectedly goes out
stacks of records is now replaced decades ago. To the mass market, of business? You need to be ‘backed
by its effortless virtual equivalent HMV pitches cheap ‘retro-styled’ up’, so why use cloud storage in the
– navigating through folders until I record-players with ‘GPO’ branding first place?
find what I’m in the mood for. I can (the publicly-owned General Post A smaller-scale failure put all
even create playlists of complete Office, which was dissolved in of this into personal perspective.
albums, sides or individual tracks 1969), presumably to capitalise My home router crashed, meaning I
– mimicking what I did prior on Brexit-fuelled ‘Rule Britannia!’ could no longer remotely-access my
to those vinyl sessions of the nostalgia. NAS music library while recovering
past – and even save them for Ironically, they are imported. after an operation. That's where
future employment (modified, if Anyone stressing the grooves of analogue steps in, with its simple
necessary). their £20-plus LP on one of them reliability.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 105

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AA HFW Jan 2020 Issue v1.indd 1 03/11/2019 15:32
106 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

OPINION






"My last pair of Quad IIs,


with all the leads, were



lethal"






Dave Tutt


A voltage DC with all else on the getting a Brennell reel-to-reel tape
couple of relics arrived
at the workshop this
same plug isn’t ever going to be
machine to pass its earth leakage
done today. It must be plugged
week. I suppose relics
test under PAT rules and you will
is not the right word as
see Bakelite isn’t a great product,
right in because exposed contacts
the design is still just
too dangerous not only for the
as valid today as it was
inside motors over 50 years old!

There is also the issue of
when new back in 1953. But many have 300 Volts DC on them – just especially used as an insulator
cat, but also for unsuspecting
modern hi-fi buyers would consider members of the family who might earthing. These amps were intended
valve mono-blocks that look closer just want to put some music on. to run with the partnering Quad 22
to industrial hardware rather unde- The connector can be removed and preamp which earthed the power
sirable – and of course there is the a gold plated phono socket fitted amps via the returns on the Jones
spouse aspect to consider too. onto a metal plate for the audio connector. If you are not using a
Bought at a local auction a pair – which looks so much better. The Quad 22 pre then where is your
of Quad II power amps with serial original plug and socket will be earth going to come from? Down
numbers reasonably close together noisy so unless you are desperate the screen of the audio cable!
they didn’t look too bad, but had to keep the Quad II looking This is another issue as your
a number of things to be done original, modification will improve pre might not be earthed in
that would bring them up to date safety and your listening pleasure. modern fashion – and to have
and make them work. You have to Otherwise the cost of an old 6 all that high voltage hardware
decide at an early stage how far blade Jones connector is liable to not earthed is not a good idea.
you are going to go with these be more than £30 and the phono Then if you earth both there may
amps. If you want to create a like- adaptors are £65 so a pair are a then be an issue with earth loops
new solution then the spray booth £150 addition to the bill before we because of the very thing you really
has to come out as the rust and start. shouldn’t leave off! Oh – and if
scratches needs to be sorted. That If, like the ones I have here, you you have them on separate mains
means a complete rebuild which I have no mains connectors that is plugs so they can be next to your
think, unless you just want to look also something of a problem too. speakers they really should have
at them, is a little extreme. They are rare, and only original mains switches on them too!
My feeling is, change the ones from the 50’s seem to be I feel with these sorts of amp
resistors as they are easy to do available and are also expensive we should obviously maintain
and relatively cheap and will have as well as being hard plastic or the basic structure of the thing
all changed in value anyway, so Bakelite – neither of which inspires but at the same time best not to
it makes sense. Any capacitor confidence. They are really not safe. compromise on safety. What was
that is split or looks like it has I know that sounds rather extreme acceptable in the 1950s is not okay
suffered due to heat should come but believe me, the reason these now! So new mains connectors are
out too. Like a lot of these old went out was exactly because they a must. The resistors are an easy
valved amps, the worst things are were dangerous. My last pair of replacement. There is really only
the connections, resistors and Quad IIs with all the leads when one crucial pair of caps that can be
capacitors that are miles from their they arrived were lethal. Damp replaced with modern equivalents,
indicated values – and of course ingress into Bakelite causes it to preferably with metal casing like
worn out valves. become conductive – and worse the originals. Then the Quad II
The Quad doesn’t have a when it does it tends to arc so you power amplifiers can be brought
simple audio line-in socket but a have plenty to make things nasty. up to running condition, providing
six pin Jones or Plessey socket I know people will say it's their output transformers are still
carrying heater and HT as well as never going to get damp but trust intact. If these have blown (fused
the audio. Unless you want 100% me, having had all sorts of ancient primary) due to valve failure then HI-FI SERVICE & REPAIR
Dave Tutt
authenticity this should come hardware with this material as an forget it. Money spent at auction +44 (0)7759 105932
out. It's a Health and Safety issue insulator I very soon realised it (or perhaps eBay) will be down the [email protected]
as much as anything: mixing high isn’t – a good insulator I mean. Try drain. www.tutt-technology.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 107

Available in:


THE



EVOLUTION


OF A CLASSIC





The Classic Evo utilises a simple and elegant “frame”
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chassis, rather than the traditional method of a spring-
loaded sub-chassis, but this construction effectively
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tonearm, reducing unwanted interference between the
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REVIEW



Cambridge








Powerhouse











Cambridge Audio’s new CXA61 amplifier is a do-it-all unit that combines great sound with
complete connectivity. Jon Myles listens in.


ambridge Audio’s roots 256 DSD data streams. That just about of the best I have used in terms of
lie way back in 1968 with covers all files most users will possess. ease of use and layout. It feels solid
the slimline P40 amplifier. Other upgrades include new op-amps, and works with no lag at all – not
What was so special about improved capacitors and a simpler something you can say about all
it? Well, it was actually circuit designed to reduce distortion. remote controls.
Cthe first amplifier to use a Bluetooth is now also built in Build-wise the Cambridge well
toroidal transformer – something we (an optional dongle was needed on befits its £750 price tag. There are
just take for granted nowadays – but the previous model). Power output no rough edges in any sense of the
at the time it allowed slimline design. remains the same at 60 Watts per phrase and it feels solid and well-
Which goes a long way to explain channel (see Measured Performance constructed. It is quite large at 115mm
Cambridge Audio’s ethos down the for full details) that, to some, might x 430mm x 341mm (H/W/D) but still
years – innovation allied to decently sound a little limited, but to be honest fits a standard 19in (483mm) wide hi-fi
priced yet good sounding products. most of us only really use a few Watts rack with room to spare.
Hence the new CXA61 integrated of power even to drive the most
amplifier that includes both analogue demanding of loudspeakers. SOUND QUALITY
and digital inputs, replacing its well- Connections include four I connected the Cambridge to a pair
regarded CXA60 predecessor. analogue inputs, plus coaxial and of PSB T20 floorstanders and our
The Wolfson 8740 DAC of the Toslink digital inputs. The input chosen reference Oppo 205BDP universal
previous model has been replaced by is indicated on a front panel display, to disc player using Titan Audio’s new
an ESS Sabre SE9010K2M digital-to- the right of which sits a large rotary interconnects (see review in this
analogue convertor – one of the best volume control. However the easiest issue) and also used a FiiO M7
on the market – allowing conversion way to control the CXA61 is via its portable player for high-resolution
of 32-bit/384kHz PCM files as well supplied remote control which is one playback into the digital section.


































www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 109

IAN HARRISON HI-FI SALE!

HIFI AT DISCOUNT PRICES. FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY
Email: [email protected]
SPECIAL OFFERS!! SALE! UP TO 40% OFF!!
CARTRIDGES UP TO 30% OFF PHONOSTAGES UP TO 25% OFF TURNTABLES &
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VAN DEN HUL MC10S £775, ORTOFON CADENZA BLUE £950,ORTOFON QUINTET BLUE £299
TONEARMS CARTRIDGES PHONOSTAGES TURNTABLES
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HADCOCK DECCA LONDON LEHMANN INSPIRE
HELIUS EMT MUSICAL LUXMAN
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MOERCH GRADO PARASOUND MUSIC HALL
MOTH HANA PRO-JECT PRO-JECT
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ORTOFON QUAD ROKSAN
PRO-JECT MY SONIC ROTHWELL SRM TECH
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CA_HFW_QuarterPage_Flat.pdf 1 24/10/2016 16:41:41



C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K


Criterion Audio is a premium hi-fi dealer in Cambridge. From
vinyl and valves to the latest in streaming and headphones, we
can help you find the perfect audio system to suit your budget
and needs. Call us on 01223 233730 to arrange a demo.

Criterion House, Oakington Road, Cambridge CB3 0QH
www.criterionaudio.com [email protected]



110 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

REVIEW




The one thing that struck me
immediately was just how confident
and musical the Cambridge sounds.
The PSBs sounded good on the end
of a Creek Evolution 100A but with
the CXA61 they came alive in a
different, more vibrant way.
There was a sense of fun,
naturalness and – above all The rear panel includes RCA phono socket analogue inputs as well as co-axial
– complete coherence. Playing New and optical digital sockets, but no balanced XLRs.
Order’s ‘Blue Monday’ through this
combination was a shining light.
Drums just right, electronics spot on
and vocals accurately placed in the
mix. A hefty toroidal
The more I listened the more transformer in the
I thought this could be an ideal linear power supply
partnership. The PSBs cost around dominates the inte-
£600 while the Cambridge is £750. rior. It's surrounded
But together they made me listen so by densely packed
much I almost forgot to write down circuit boards;
my listening notes. When I this is a complex
did, the words that came design.
through frequently were
fun, power and detail.
The ESS Sabre DAC has
obviously made a difference
in the latter stakes, as
plugging in the FiiO digitally
and playing Arvo Part’s
‘Tabula Rasa’ (24/96) MEASURED PERFORMANCE
showed. The piano was The CXA61 amplifier delivered 72 Watts for full output. There is no phono stage.
softer and mellower than into 8 Ohms and 110 Watts into 4 Ohms. Although this is a budget amplifier
before – just as it should Output impedance measured a low 0.1 the internal ESS DAC had a high 116dB
be – yet the violin part Ohms, giving a high damping factor of EIAJ Dynamic Range figure, via the
had real bite. The CXA61 80, to exert good control of the bass loudspeaker and pre-out outputs. This
made this obvious, without unit. is well above the 103dB of CD and
adding artifice to the Distortion levels were very low approaching the 122dB or so of quality
sound. It simply sounded at 0.005% (1kHz) and also at high external DACs, making the CXA61 very
natural. frequencies (10kHz), just 0.01% into 4 capable with hi-resolution digital audio.
Another impressive aspect Ohms at 1 Watt, as our analysis shows. Digital distortion measured a low
was this amplifier's ability to Input sensitivity (Aux 1-4) was 350mV 0.035% (-60dB, 24bit) giving clean
fuse with the music. Playing The FREQUENCY RESPONSE digital sound. Frequency response with
Clash’s version of the reggae classic 192kHz sample rate PCM rolled down CAMBRIDGE
‘Time Is Tight’ the bass line was tight slowly above 34kHz (-1dB) to the upper AUDIO CXA61
and right on the beat. It produced a theoretical limit of 96kHz. An impressive £750
solid foundation for the guitars above digital result, maintained through the £
and had a truly rhythmic propulsion USB input, measurement showed. The
about it. Turning volume up didn’t optical digital input worked to 192kHz. OUTSTANDING - amongst
faze the performance; it remained The CXA61 gave fine performance the best.
firm and stable without collapsing in figures in all areas. It is a well designed
on itself. I’ve heard other amplifiers budget amplifier that betters most else. VALUE - keenly priced.
drag a bit more power from the NK VERDICT
track – but not in the price range. Superb sound, digital inputs
The CXA61 works well in all DISTORTION and ease of use.
areas I found – through its analogue Power (8 Ohms) 72 Watts
and digital inputs. Frequency response 2Hz-40kHz FOR
Separation 88dB - sound quality
CONCLUSION Noise (IEC A wtd) -102dB - input options
- build quality
Distortion (10kHz, 1W, 4Ω)
0.01%
As integrated amplifiers go the Sensitivity 350mV - remote control
new Cambridge CXA61 has to be Damping factor 80 - price
considered a standout product.
Powerful enough to drive most DIGITAL AGAINST
- nothing at the price
modern loudspeakers, it has Frequency response (192kHz)
propulsive analogue sound and a 4Hz-34kHz Cambridge Audio
refined digital section that wants for Distortion (-60dB, 24bit) 0.035% +44 (0)207 551 5422
nothing. Well worth hearing. Dynamic Range (EIAJ) 116dB www.cambridgeaudio.com
www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 111

VINYL NEWS



vinyl section









contents




JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fi world.co.uk

BLUE AURA PG-1 TURNTABLE 115
A turntable with Bluetooth. Noel Keywood spins vinyl and tunes
in.
THE BEATLES - SINGLES COLLECTION 118
All 22 Beatles singles in a box. Reviewed by Noel Keywood.
AUDIO ANALOGUE AAPHONO 121
A stylish Italian phono stage. Noel Keywood investigates.
AUDIOPHILE BOOK 127
'All Around a Hole'; 1970s Italian LPs. Reviewed by Paul Rigby.
news



MUSIC ON VINYL
A host of new releases from this audiophile outfit (www.
musiconvinyl.com) includes Moloko’s ‘Things to Make and
Do’ (2000). A beat-ridden, splurge of sliding tempos. A solid
release full of intriguing textures.
Also look out for Peter Green’s ‘Kolors’ (1983). Green
PRETTY THINGS seems more up for it on this LP than previous releases. Pity
A double album disc (Madfish: the songs are sub par.
www.madfishmusic.com) featuring a live set from Also look out for two soul compilations, ‘Keeping the
the legendary rock outfit and with guests, Van Faith 1: 28 Stompin’ Northern Soul Classics’ & ‘Keeping the
Morrison and David Gilmour. Recorded at Faith 2: 21 Modern Soul Classics’. Both double albums, both
the O2 Indigo, London, December 2018. The on coloured vinyl, the former offering The Cherry People,
recording scoops the best of three live sets. The Sapphires and Sylvia while the latter includes The
Moments, Benny Troy, Carrie Lucas.


MODERN HARMONIC
Three compilation LPs from this
Sundazed off-shoot (modernharmonic.
com), all on coloured vinyl, includes
‘Spectral Stompers & Graveyard
Grooves’ that mixes garage, surf and
original trailer/radio spot pieces relating
to the famed, old Ghost Show road
shows that would travel the USA, from
the 30s to 70s, scaring the pants off paying customers. Artists include The
Night Beats, Pat and the Wildcats plus The Mysterions.
Also look out for the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack to ‘Missile
To The Moon’ (1958) – illogical, substandard, filmed in seven days and
totally glorious! Plus ‘She Demons’ (1958), another Soundtrack combining
demons and Nazis. But of course. SIMPLE MINDS
The group’s vigorous output continues with two packages.
The first is a live set, ‘In the City of Angels’ (BMG) from the
Orpheum Theatre, Los Angeles on 24 October 2018 (Glittering
Prize was recorded at The Fillmore, Miami Beach on 8th
November 2018, though). Apart from the latter, you get the
whole concert.
'40: The Best Of’ (Universal) packs eighteen tracks into two
discs, covers the band’s entire career and includes a new track:
a cover of King Creosote’s 2014 song ‘For One Night Only’.
112 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

VINYL NEWS



vinyl section VAN HALEN


A rather nice 7” box set from Rhino containing
thirteen Japanese singles from the band, spanning
1978-1984. Contained in a flip top box with a
nice magnetic snap-shut lid, each
dinked disc sits in a paper
sleeve with the art printed
on a single sheet. The pair are
contained in a plastic sleeve.
Arrives with a paper insert
detailing the tracks.



CHANTAL CHAMBERLAND
‘Temptation’ from Chantal Chamberland
(Evosound: www.evosound.com) makes a big sticker
play of its German pressing source but fails to
say exactly where. Nevertheless, this singer-
songwriter combines new and classic tracks,
cooly interpreted, vocally textured and spatially
generous. It’s exactly what you’d expect to hear
at a hi-fi show. So you probably will.



SPEAKERS CORNER
A host of goodies from this German audiophile outfit
(www.speakerscornerrecords.com) includes ‘Aretha: Live at Fillmore West’ (1971). Backed
by an excellent band, there’s enough energy here to light a city. A quite brilliant,
fulfilling and sparkling live event.
Elvin Jones’ ‘Midnight Walk’ (1966) mixing jazz-funk, swing and bop for a storming
set. DEMON
Also look out for ‘The Flowering of the Original Charles Lloyd Quartet’ (1971), There’s three Greatest Hits packages from the UK
recorded at the Aulean Hall, Oslo, Norway, 1966, combining pop and jazz and vinyl outfit under its Gold imprint. One each from
appealing to the flower power set of the time. Features Keith Jarrett. 5 Star, Kiki Dee and Ace of Base.
‘Hank Plays Cliff’ sees Hank Marvin’s album on
(red) vinyl for the first time. Features Cliff Richard
on four tracks over two discs.
Rick Wakeman fans check out the rather good
‘Cirque Surreal’ (1995), featuring four Chrissie
Hammond vocals and instrumentals. A solid effort
from Wakeman.
The James Taylor Quartet’s ‘a Bigger Picture’
(2001) combines acid jazz with soul/funk and more
to provide a polished presentation of originals
with ‘TKO’, a Bobby Womack cover. Over three
sides with an etching on the fourth.
Don’t miss fun times with Hot Wax’s fun-pop
...AND FINALLY outfit, ‘Honey Cone’, who had a big hit with soul
song, ’Want Ads’. Timeless stuff.
Guido Spannocchi’s jazzy ‘All of the Above’ (Audioguido; audioguidorecords.kudosrecords. You can add gritty Laura Lee’s ‘Women’s Love
co.uk) is supposedly derived from European folk but sounds like classic bop to me! Rights’ (1971) to that. A classic women’s protest
Excellent stuff. outing, also originally from Holland-Dozier-
Wizard Rifle’s (Svart: svartrecords.com) self-titled, psychedelic noise rock is hard, Holland’s Hot Wax. The critic’s favourite was Lee.
tough, in yer face yet injects surprising melodic undertones. Features the classy ‘Wedlock is a Padlock’.
Klone’s ‘Le Grand Voyage’ (Kscope: kscopemusic.com) reminds me of Steven Wilson
blended with Sting. But the former in terms of arrangements
and delivery. Porcupine fans take
note.
The Akron Quartet Plays
‘Ritualul Sferei’ (Vampi Soul: www.
munster-records.com) is a jazz
combo majoring in exotica. Think
Les Baxter in its cool, lounge
strangeness.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 113

“Tellurium Q’s Ultra Black II’s can be see as one of “The differences were stunning…..What I can
the best loudspeaker cables on the market at state is that the Ultra Black 11 cables are currently
their price” the best I have heard in my system.”

– Jon Myles, Hifi World – Ian Ringstead, Hifipig.com


“Tellurium Q Ultra Black II is a remarkably coherent “I have yet to hear a speaker cable which
and “well-timed” cable” delivers timing like this one.”

– Jason Kennedy, HiFi + – Chris Kelly, The Ear

VINYL SECTION



Blue Vinyl










Blue Aura add vinyl to their neat budget system. Noel Keywood comes away impressed.









































e’ve reviewed Blue Unusually, there’s a digital output withstand such heavy use – and that
Aura’s lovely little in the form of Bluetooth wireless is what Blue Aura fit to the PG-1.
system before, with transmission, but only Bluetooth Yep – it’s a workhorse that tracks at
cute little V40 ampli- and nothing else – there’s no S/PDIF 3.5gm but the use of carbon fibre in
fier (£469) and small digital output in optical or electrical the cantilever gives it a wonderfully
Wps40 loudspeakers form. The Bluetooth stream is 16bit smooth and deep sound that is
(£179). Now the company have come / 44.1kHz – CD quality. entirely in-character with LP – and
up with a matching turntable, the PG- The PG-1 is fairly basic: there are preferable I feel to the brighter
1 (£259) that I’m reviewing here. I’ll no auto mechanisms. I had to hand sound of metal cantilevers, which
also quickly cover the system again, cue the arm onto a disc, using either most are. Ironic that a workhorse
to get the PG-1 into context, as well the damped cue platform and lever, construction gives best sound – but
as using it in an alternative reference or the headshell finger lift. I prefer to that’s a neat touch with this low
system – because at the price this is use my fingers and here the simple, cost cartridge, making it my budget
as a neat way to bolt LP replay onto flat headshell grip was difficult to favourite.
any system. grasp – as they always are. Headshell The arm has a fixed headshell
The PG-1 is a two speed (33, finger lifts need to be curved upward and comes with cartridge attached –
45rpm) belt drive design that, judging but – hey-ho – this is a minor point and changing the cartridge isn’t easy I
by its arm, comes from Pro-Ject of since most people will likely use found. It can be done if you have the
Austria. Pro-Ject are adept at fitting the damped platform and it worked tools, steady hands and good eyesight
extra bits into turntables, such as smoothly. Also, the finger lift can be but realistically it’s a dealer job for
phono stages and digital outputs, to replaced for a better one. anyone wanting to upgrade. Tracking
make them more adaptable – and Bouncing cartridge onto LP force is set by rotating the counter-
that’s what you get here. The PG-1 always was a big problem with vinyl, weight on the rear stub, a common
has a simple internal phono stage resulting in bent cantilever and the method – but in our review sample
(MM only) so will feed any amplifier cost of a replacement stylus. Audio the weight was loose due to a small
direct, but it can be switched out if Technica have a good remedy in internal friction pad disintegrating.
an external stage or amplifier with its their AT-3600 MM cartridge; it has a Quoted cartridge weight range
own phono input is used. carbon composite cantilever able to is a limited 3gm-6gm, suggesting

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 115

VINYL SECTION





































Blue Aura's PG-1 turntable flanked by the system it was designed to match, comprising ps40 loud-
speakers at left and V40 amplifier at right, with remote control. The turntable can be connected
directly to the V40 or via Bluetooth digital radio link.

cartridges over 6gm cannot be used, The plinth measures 420mm hybrid amplifier has a silicon power
such as Audio Technica’s VM95 budget wide, 130mm high (lid closed) and chip inside, fronted by valves,
series that come in at 6.1gm. The 345mm deep (lid closed). Opening including an EM84 magic eye that
common upper limit is 10gm so the the lid makes overall depth 420mm glows green for added visual appeal
PG-1 has restriction here; it isn’t a due to rear overhang, and demands – these things acting as radio tuning
turntable for upgraders. I suspect 400mm top clearance – important indicators in the past.
Blue Aura’s quoted weight range is dimensions for anyone using a wall To initiate Bluetooth pairing
inaccurate and a heavier cartridge rack system. The three feet do not I had to switch off power at rear
would be compatible – but getting height-adjust so a level surface is then back on, at which point the
the tight fitting connectors off one needed. unit paired both with the VA40 and
channel to make internal amplifier Weight is quoted as 5.8kg (light- a Cambridge Audio streamer (used
measurements was difficult, so to ish) and power is delivered by a small for measurement) that confirmed
avoid damage – that manufacturers wall-wart 12V / 500mA power unit, 44.1kHz sample rate digital. There’s
don’t like in review samples – I having a 2m long lead. Low voltage quite a lot of latency in the system,
decided against swapping cartridges external supplies like this with no so drop arm onto LP and there’s a
earth connection eliminate hum. short silence until the music starts
The PG-1 has a well made and – eerie! Cue arm up and the music
finished plinth with a single pair of keeps playing – disconcerting! Happily
phono socket outputs at rear that it does stop when the buffers run
deliver either output direct from the out, after 0.5 secs or so I would
cartridge or from the internal phono guess.
stage, a small slide switch making the The PG-1’s electrical Line output
choice. There’s also a small blue LED is weak and the VA40’s gain low via
at rear that winks to show Bluetooth its ‘RCA’ phono-socket inputs so I
connection. had volume turned right up here.
I connected up to the Line Swapping to the more sensitive
input of our Creek amplifier, then AUX input (3.5mm input jack) gave
Aux input of the VA40. However, apparently more volume (more gain
Audio Technica's AT-3600 moving magnet the turntable’s Bluetooth output can in fact).
cartridge is fitted as standard. The finger also be used to pair to the VA40, Blue Aura claim 30 Watts
lift is removable and can be changed. which has a Bluetooth receiver from their VA40 amplifier but our
– more in a minute on this. As Blue measurements show it delivers 10
to check this. Aura note the PG-1 can transmit Watts (15 Watts into 4 Ohms) as
Bias force is applied by a small to Bluetooth equipped headphones we found in our original review (July
counterweight and thread assembly. or loudspeakers, avoiding wires 2016 issue).
The arm has good bearings that altogether. Bluetooth also means And finally, the little ps40
allowed it to float freely when it can be sited away from the hi-fi, loudspeakers (£179) complete the
balanced out, so in all it performs perhaps in a firm location. system. Reviewed in our November
well. Blue Aura’s lovely little VA40 2016 issue we thought these were
116 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

VINYL SECTION




example, coming over with great showed its peculiar sonic strengths,
presence and good pitch stability; pulling out the rich tapestry of sound
there was no obvious wavering. from this wonderfully
Similarly, with I Look To You on the recorded LP, teasing out
flip side, Cheryl Porter’s vocals stood the timbral delineation
out with all the vivacious push LP can that analogue
provide – a lovely performance. can achieve. The
Swapping over from the Creek sense of speed
Evolution 100A to Blue Aura and pace came
VA40 there was slightly more largely from the small
dimensionality, courtesy of the valves. ps40 loudspeakers that
Although there was less absolute well complement the rest
power – 10 Watts against the Creek’s of this system. You don’t get
Tracking force is applied by a 100 Watts – the VA40 still went very deep bass here, but you do get
calibrated counterweight and loud, driving our Martin Logan ESL-X speedy punch. Think lively, dynamic
bias by a weight on a thread hybrid electrostatic loudspeakers with and clear.
over a shaped wire support. ease. It was a fine sound, communi-
cating the smoothness of analogue CONCLUSION
easily worth five Globes, especially and also its dynamic liveliness. Blue Aura’s PG-1 turntable is a neat
at the very low price – superb value. Via Bluetooth the sound became little package with fine sound from
They are a tad bright but clear and slightly softer and blander – almost the Audio Technica AT-3600 budget
detailed – and with fast bass. Far a shame as the PG-1 deserves MM cartridge fitted. The Bluetooth
better than they had any right to be the convenience of a Bluetooth link is a convenience that allows
at the price I felt. connection that is higher in fidelity. the turntable to be sited anywhere,
But you can’t have everything at this but quality is below that of direct
SOUND QUALITY price. connection. The PG-1 works well
I used the PG-1 with our Creek Feeding Blue Aura’s VA40 within Blue Aura’s fine little system
Evolution 100A amplifier connected amplifier and ps40 loudspeakers and also on its own, offering superb
to Martin Logan ESL-X hybrid direct (phono leads) the PG-1 was sound and value. It’s definitely worth
electrostatic loudspeakers to assess lovely. Hugh Masekela’s ‘Uptownship’ hearing this little set up – one that
its sound directly and – of course raced along, sounding vivacious – his takes up little space, sounds lovely
– through the VA40 amplifier also trumpet rich in tone. Here, the and costs – well – I’ll say it again:
connected to the Martin Logans, then carbon fibre cantilever of the AT-3600 peanuts!
the ps40s.
Connected directly via the MEASURED PERFORMANCE
internal phono stage to the Creek I
had to turn volume up but the PG- From a 3150Hz test tone (DIN 45-452 turntable. Our speed variation analysis
1 was clear, smooth and accurate. test disc) the PG-1 wandered from also shows a flutter peak at right
Running through a selection of our 3134Hz to 3142Hz, in random fashion (15.9Hz) responsible for a poor 0.1%
high quality review LPs I heard a over a 24hr period. That puts nominal Flutter reading (0.04% typical). All
sound that was well balanced and speed at 3138Hz, a small -0.4% slow the same, total Wow & Flutter, DIN
revealing. There was plenty of detail – not subjectively obvious in terms of weighted, was 0.13% – respectable for
at high frequencies that made vocals pitch accuracy. budget belt drive turntable.
stand out, the trumpet solo on The speed wander did however The internal phono stage has a very BLUE AURA
Fanfare for the Common Man from result in a mediocre 0.2% Wow value, low gain of x60 and overloaded above BLACKLINE PG-1
‘Two Countries One Heart’, for fairly typical of a budget belt drive 10mV in / 600mV out, where distortion £259
SPEED VARIATION measured 1%. Although this is poor, in
practice it will only affect music peaks £
and pass largely unnoticed. Equalisation OUTSTANDING - amongst
was accurate, making frequency the best.
response effectively flat from 10Hz to
20kHz, there being no warp filter. VALUE - keenly priced.
Frequency response of the AT-3600
cartridge, measured with pink noise, was VERDICT
relatively flat via the Line output (-1dB Good budget turntable, well
suited to Blue Aura’s neat
at 10kHz), but with treble roll down via little system.
Bluetooth (-3dB at 10kHz, as shown),
giving a milder sound. FOR
FREQUENCY RESPONSE BT The PG-1 measured as expected for - bluetooth
- phono stage
a budget belt drive, having no serious - analogue sound
weaknesses. Considering price versus
complexity, it was very good. NK AGAINST
- cartridge weight range
An EM84 valve shows music Speed error -0.4% - some speed variation
level in a light blue fluorescent Wow 0.2% Blue Aura
0.1%
Flutter
display that's entertaining Wow & Flutter (DIN wtd) 0.13% +44 (0)1480 477738
– especially in the dark. www.blueaura.co.uk
www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 117

VINYL SECTION



Single Hits












The Beatles hit singles – twenty two of them – will arrive in shops just before Christmas.
Here's what to expect, Noel Keywood explains.




atch Abbey Road's a bonus). authenticity in this set, expecting
webcam to see the Hearing these singles again – one replica dark-green Parlophone
constant flow of after the other – took me back to sleeves. Instead, with this collection,
visitors, day and night my early teens, when the radiogram you get a melange of overseas covers,
– even at Christmas would be playing Forces Favourites a few with no English on them at
W– that flock in from on Sunday morning – and it was a all, even on the labels. So you’ll be
around the world to cross that Beatles song that was the reverential looking for ‘Quiero Tomar Tu Mano’
crossing. The Beatles early high ener- high point, a song everyone enjoyed, when you want to listen to ‘I want To
gy but easily accessible songs remain young or old. So if you were there Hold Your Hand’, from Los Beatles.
globally popular to this day, fame at the time this box set will trigger The recordings are the originals
being forged by strings of hit singles instant and powerful memories. – but the covers are not. There’s
long ago, starting in 1963 with Please As the accompanying small book a confusion of provenance here
Please Me that rocketed to No1 in explains, The Beatles singles were that historical completists may not
the UK charts. After that, their next crafted, at John Lennon’s insistence, appreciate, even though it makes
12 singles were chart toppers. Not to be fast and vivacious. He didn’t some sense. If original
only did The Beatles wheedle their want album tracks used; the singles Parlophone covers had been
way into the British public’s con- went onto the albums – not the used these singles would
sciousness, they also became wildly other way around. At least, in the UK. look alike; with various
loved in America and around the America released singles from album and differing overseas
world. Explaining why Abbey Road tracks that were a success all the covers they are visually
told us they have had to press a mil- same. separated, if by covers that
lion singles to meet demand for the Now to the singles in this box are – by today’s design
November 22nd release date of this set, which we list in chronological and typographic standards
latest addition to the Beatles tome: order. My instant disappointment was – inelegant.
the singles, twenty-two of them (plus the sleeves. I was expecting deep Since The Beatles had





































118 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

VINYL SECTION




a global audience, it’s appropriate SINGLES LIST
to use album sleeve presentations
from elsewhere. Makes my gripes 1) Love Me Do / P.S. I Love You
seem xenophobic, but yet I still 2) Please Please Me / Ask Me Why
craved deep authenticity as I see 3) From Me To You / Thank You Girl
it with this collection – especially 4) She Loves You / I’ll Get You
as it hit me hard as a travel back 5) I Want To Hold Your Hand / This Boy
to 1960s Britain. Somehow I don’t 6) Can’t Buy Me Love / You Can’t Do That
remember them as Los Beatles. 7) A Hard Day’s Night / Things We Said Today
The recordings are from 8) I Feel Fine / She’s A Woman
analogue cutting masters, since 9) Ticket To Ride / Yes It Is
the original tapes are too old and 10) Help! / I’m Down
fragile to be run over and over 11) We Can Work It Out / Day Tripper 18) Hey, Jude / Revolution
again. Exceptions are Love Me Do 12) Paperback Writer / Rain 19) Get Back / Don’t Let Me Down
and She Loves You that were un- 13) Eleanor Rigby / Yellow Submarine 20) The Ballad of John and Yoko / Old Brown Shoe
retrievable, Abbey Road told me. 14) Strawberry Fields Forever / Penny Lane 21) Something / Come Together
Sound quality varies but is 15) All You Need Is Love / Baby, You’re a Rich Man 22) Let it Be / You Know My Name
generally good. ‘Love Me Do’, their 16) Hello, Goodbye / I Am The Walrus (Look Up The Number)
first single from 1962, is a tad vague 17) Lady Madonna / The Inner Light Free as a Bird / Real Love (bonus)
but the bass line prominent. ‘Please
Please Me’ is strident and has
obvious wow at fade out, likely from I worked through the singles they I can understand why millions will
the original tape recorder. ‘She Loves varied in sound quality, some good, be doing it (again). This box set is
You’ is also strident, but then my some not so good – so sonically obligatory for those able to spin 7in
two originals were similar, so it’s an there’s a mixed bag here. 45s and want to hear what shook the
accurate transcription. Irrespective of sound quality, world long ago – and draws people
I also compared All You Need is this singles box set does give what to that crossing today.
Love, We Can Work It Out and Help John Lennon wanted – a fast delivery
original singles from my collection from the outset, songs that take
to these new ones and off from the first groove. Vivacious, For assessment I used an Audio
Technica VM750 SH (Shibata) stylus
differences were small. There young and full of energy, also simply moving magnet cartridge in an SME309
is a tad more treble, likely romantic – at least in the early arm on our Timestep Evo modified
cutting lathe differences and/ days. No wonder the Beatles singles Technics SL-1210 Mk2 Direct Drive turn-
or my singles are knackered! bulldozed a path to acceptance of table. Loudspeakers were Martin Logan
With ’Things We Said them around the world. ESL-X hybrid electrostatics, driven by
Icon Audio Stereo 30SE valve amplifier
Today’ the sound was Making this box set a strong fed by an Icon Audio PS3 Mk2 valve
smooth and dynamically experience; you get songs that phono stage for authentic sound of the
deeper, making for an easy whistled home – as they still do era (brought up to date!).
and lovely analogue listen. today. OK, playing 5 minute, 45rpm
And that’s how it went; as singles is a peculiar ceremony, but






































www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 119

DEMONSTRATIONS PART
Peak HiFi EXCHANGE
Peak HiFi Available by appointment 7 days a week WELCOME









Audio Desk Systeme • Black Rhodium • Dynavector • Exposure • Glanz • Hana • Koetsu • Martin Logan • Michell Engineering • Musical Fidelity
Neat Acoustics • Oracle Audio • Ortofon • PMC • Project Audio • Siltech • SMD Acoustics • SME • Stirling Broadcast • Sugden Audio • Unison Research
www.peakhifi.co.uk Tel: 01226 761832 Mob: 07801 821791 [email protected]
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VINYL SECTION



Design Master










Audio Analogue’s elegant AAPhono stage, reviewed by Noel Keywood.




ere’s an elegant phono ity moving coil cartridges, as I will Beneath the fascia lie small
stage from Audio explain later. push-buttons that select various
Analogue of Italy, dis- The AAPhono is fronted by input conditions. At left a row of
playing typical Italian a thick brushed aluminium front eight LEDs show MM/MC selection,
design flare. Although panel with neat rows of bright and MC load of 100, 400, 680 or
H the casework and white LEDs – 16 in all – at left 1000 Ohms. Most MCs need 100
switching methodology – reliant and right of a large central circular Ohms, but the higher values suit
on small-signal relays – is techno- on/off button. Although the button the few high output moving coils
logically advanced, in basic outline rotates it does not alter volume around that need 300 Ohm or
the AAPhono is straight forward. or select input conditions, only more. Audio Analogue also place
It accommodates moving mag- LED brightness. I found this a bit a SubSonic (SS) filter switch and
net (MM) and moving coil (MC) disappointing since volume control indicator here that works with both
cartridges, but there are no gain in particular can be useful in a MC and MM.
options and only unbalanced phono phono stage, allowing it to drive a At right are a further eight
inputs and outputs. Measurement power amplifier directly. There is no LEDs that show input load
suggests it's purposed for high qual- remote control. conditions for MM cartridges. There























































www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 121

VINYL SECTION




perhaps – taking up more space
than many rivals. One reason is
that a bulky (but high quality) linear
power supply is housed on-board,
possessing three transformers,
where today phono stages are
commonly driven by an external
switch-mode wall-wart supply.
Power is taken in through a three-
pin IEC mains connector at rear
and there’s also a rocker-style mains
master switch here. Weight is 5.8kg.
And finally to gain options, or
lack of them. Where most phono
stages offer options, Audio Analogue
Just beneath and behind the front fascia plate lie small black push provide a standard x100 gain for
buttons, at left and right. They select MM or MC gain, plus loading MM (40dB) but a high x2000 gain
values for MM and MC cartridges. for MC (66dB), where x1000 (60dB)
is standard. This suits high quality,
are 15k, 37k, 47k and 69k Ohm tiny push buttons beneath the front low output moving coils – as does
loads, of which only 47k is needed fascia. Accessible from the front, very low noise, so it appears to
since all MM cartridges are specified this is a more practical method me Audio Analogue are aiming this
for a 47k Ohm load – I don’t know than underside DIP switches, but design at those with expensive MC
what the other load values are the legends beneath the LEDs were cartridges, who don’t want to hear
for. There are also four capacitive grey against a silver aluminium hiss. Although high gain is used the
loading values from minimum background and barely legible I overload ceiling was still adequate.
to 250pF, these slightly altering found, in-idiom with Apple’s trend
frequency response above 1kHz to setting understated typography SOUND QUALITY
produce subtle variations, increasing – but taken too far here. I connected the AAPhono to our
capacitance lifting the midband but Measuring 220mm wide, 90mm Creek Evolution 100A amplifier
reducing high treble in most MM high and 360mm deep not including through Chord Company Epic
cartridges. rear protrusion of plugs (372mm), cables, the Creek in turn being
The AAPhono has one set of the AAPhono isn’t as small as some. connected to Martin Logan ESL-X
phono-socket inputs to handle In a 19in (483mm) wide rack it hybrid electrostatic loudspeakers
one turntable, so it is set up for a muscles in to leave 263mm available through Chord Company Signature
specific cartridge by pressing the for another item – an amplifier Reference cables. Feeding the





































The AAPhono majors on linear power supplies, having no fewer than three mains transformers,
seen at right. Two supply power to each channel, the third power to the switching circuits and
ancillaries.
122 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

VINYL SECTION


























The rear panel carries gold plated RCA phono sockets for left and right channels, plus a ground
terminal. Also here is a mains master switch, rocker style, and IEC mains power input socket.



AAPhono was our Timestep Evo In Arms’ (Mobile Fidelity analogue and low noise caters for them well
Technics SL-1210 Mk2 modified re-master, 45rpm) ‘Your Latest – and also accommodates higher
turntable fitted with SME309 arm. Trick’ came across nicely, with output types adequately. I heard
Pickup cartridges were an Ortofon plenty of dynamic push to the bass a creamy smooth sound that had
Cadenza Bronze MC and an Audio line whilst Knopfler’s vocals drifted deep silences, being noise free.
Technica VM750 SH (Shibata) MM. out clearly. Again, smooth, easy Absence of gain options, volume
After spinning a lot of LPs I going and slick: an engaging listen. control or XLR balanced outputs
can best summarise the AAPhono are minus points – but not for
as creamy smooth and easy going. CONCLUSION everyone. For those who want a
It didn’t come at me in any one The AAPhono is aimed at those well built and finished phono stage,
area but I sat back and enjoyed its with low output (high quality) free of fripperies and with svelte
svelte delivery all the same. Our moving coil cartridges. Its high gain sound the AAPhono will appeal.
Cadenza Bronze, with its stage
depth and rock solid bass suited
well, although the AAPhono didn’t MEASURED PERFORMANCE
tease the best from it in depth
terms. It did support a wonderful Frequency response of Audio affect on audio band response at all.
dark silence however, that allowed Analogue's AAPhono runs flat from Gain values were a normal x100
transient events to push out a low 4Hz up to 20kHz our analysis (40dB) for MM but a very high x2000
clearly. Drum rolls in Sing Sing Sing shows, with either MM or MC selected. (66dB) for MC, where x1000(60dB) is
('Big Band Spectacular' – a direct The SubSonic (SS) warp filter cuts gain common. This best suits low output
cut from Chasing the Dragon) sharply below 28Hz to produce massive MC cartridges, usually more expensive
moved clearly across the stage attenuation of -35dB at 5Hz, with no designs. In keeping with this aim input
and had visceral power. I’ve heard noise with MC was a very low 0.11µV,
the Bronze sound stronger and FREQUENCY RESPONSE making hiss all but inaudible even at AUDIO ANALOGUE
more forceful but the AAPhono high volume. Although the unit can AAPHONO
was tidy and tight. Marianne deliver a healthy 10.5V output swing £1600
Thorsen’s violin, fronting the this limits input overload to a low-ish
Trondheim Solists playing Mozart 5mV with MC (but a high 105mV with
Piano Concertos (2L of Norway), MM). EXCELLENT - extremely
benefitted from the silky sound of The AAPhono is well purposed for capable
this unit, making for an easy yet high quality (low output) MC cartridges
impressive listen that revealed her measurement showed, having both high VERDICT
vibrant playing. gain and low noise. It also well suits Smooth sounding, low noise
phono stage for MC and MM
Switching to our Audio DISTORTION MMs. NK worth hearing.
Technica VM750 SH cartridge (MM)
didn’t change the picture much. Its FOR
Shibata stylus on a tapered alloy PHONO (MM/MC) - build and finish
cantilever (like that of the Bronze) Frequency response (-1dB) - smooth sound
- low noise
4Hz-20kHz

brought out more high-end detail Distortion (1kHz, 5mV) 0.01/0.2%
and was less forceful lower down – Separation (1kHz) 68dB AGAINST
but these are cartridge differences. Noise (IEC A, ein) 0.15µV / 0.11µV - no gain options
If anything the AAPhono imposed Gain (MM, MC) - no XLR outputs
its own smooth sound to more x100 (40dB) / x2000 (66dB) - no volume control
closely align their qualities. Overload 10.5V out Decent Audio
With LPs possessing obvious +44 (0)5602 054669
bass, such as Dire Straits ‘Brothers www.decentaudio.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 123

directory of Hi-Fi Dealers
Dial A Dealer Directory throughout the UK and Ireland.




divine audio Refreshingly diff erent

AnalogueWorks
Creek Audio
Croft Acoustics
Graham Audio
Jelco Tonearms
Neat Acoustics
Omega Loudspeakers
Rogue Audio
Supra Cables 01865 790 879
www.divineaudio.co.uk www.oxfordaudio.co.uk
07918 728860 [email protected] Cantay House, Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1JD




9 High Street, Hampton Wick, OXF HiFi World AD August 2019 issue v2.indd 1 06/06/2019 19:47
Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 4DA
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 6pm
0208 943 3530 MUSIC & CINEMA SYSTEMS


NAIM, LINN, REGA, ARCAM, B&W 800 SERIES, PMC, FOCAL,
DYNAVECTOR, KUDOS, VELODYNE, STAX, LYRA, OPPO,
TANGERINE AUDIO, TELLURIUM Q.
SEE AND HEAR THE VERY BEST







D E S I G N E D & H A N D M A D E I N S CO T L A N D





Precision audio


engineering.











TO ADVERTISE HERE

PLEASE CALL

JOANNA HOLMES ON


+44 (0) 7958 602347

OR EMAIL:

[email protected] atlascables.com


124 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

HFW 2019 puzzle
Christmas Crossword FEATURE
Faiza







1 2
3 4
5 6

7 8
9



10 11
12
13 14

15
16 17

18
19
20 21



22 23
24

25


26 27



28



29
30
31


Across DOWN Down
ACROSS
5. Provided amplification for Woodstock
5 Provided amplification for 1. KD Lang hails from what country?
1
KD Lang hails from what country
8. Tamla Motown was founded in which city?
Woodstock 2. What you set an LP on
What you set an LP on
2
3. Rolling Thunder Revue - what artist?
9. Famous for electrostatic loudspeakers
3
Rolling Thunder Revue - what
8 Tamla Motown was founded in 4. High-frequency driver
11. Band behind Blue Monday
which city 6. Elvis Presley’s home
artist
12. Wrote No Woman No Cry
4
High-frequency driver
9 Famous for electrostatic 7. Famous Beatles cover outside which studio?
15. Iggy Pop and the....
17. Ortofon make what?
Elvis Presley’s home
6
loudspeakers 8. Converts digital to analogue
10. Famous Manchester nightclub
20. Lead singer of Blondie
11 Band behind Blue Monday 13. Franki Valli and the..... 13) FourSeasons 14) TheYardBirds 16) ShaneMacGowan
7
Famous Beatles cover outside
21. Wrote Purple Rain
which studio
12 Wrote No Woman No Cry 14. What group connects Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page 20) DebbieHarry 21) Prince 23) Bjork 24) Kraftwerk 6) Graceland 7) AbbeyRoad 8) DAC 10) TheHacienda 18) RobbieWilliams 19) FrankSinatra 22) SexPistols
23. Icelandic singer
Converts diigital to analogue
8
15 Iggy Pop and the.... and Jeff Beck? 5) McIntosh 8) Detroit 9) Quad 11) NewOrder 12) BobMarley 15) Stooges 17) Cartridges 27) BoomTownRats 28) DirectStreamDigital 1) Canada 2) Platter 3) BobDylan 4) Tweeter
24. German electronic pioneers
10 Famous Manchester nightclub
17 Ortofon make what 16. Lead singer of The Pogues 29) Glastonbury 30) Oasis 31) Vinyl
27. Bob Geldof’s band
18. Left Take That to forge a solo career
20 Lead singer of Blondie 19. Old Blue Eyes 25) Salisbury 26) Watford
13 Franki Valli and the.....
28. DSD stands for what?
29. Annual music festival
21 Wrote Purple Rain 22. Clashed with Bill Grundy
14 What group connects Eric Clapton,
30. Noel and Liam Gallagher formed which group?
23 Icelandic singer 25. Home of Naim Answers Across: Down:
Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck
31. LP is also known as?
24 German electronic pioneers 26. Elton John’s favourite football team
16 Lead singer of The Pogues
27 Bob Geldof’s band 18 Left Take That to forge a solo 125
www.hi-fiworld.co.uk
28 DSD stands for what career JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD
29 Annual music festival 19 Old Blue Eyes
30 Noel and Liam Gallagher formed 22 Clashed with Bill Grundy
which group 25 Home of Naim
31 LP is also known as 26 Elton John's favourite football
team

FREE READER CLASSIFIEDS


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TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Only one advert per reader. No Trade adverts. This section is strictly for readers selling
secondhand hi-fi equipment only. Maximum length per advert is 30 words, Adverts over 30 words will not be accepted.
Telephone numbers and E-mail addresses are treated as one word. Model numbers are treated as one word i.e. Quad
303 = two words. Email your advert to; [email protected] or fill in the form on page 129 and post it to Hi-Fi
World Free Readers Ads, Studio 204, Buspace Studio,Conlan Street, Notting Hill, London W10 5AP . Sorry, we cannot
accept adverts over the telephone. The Publisher reserves the right to judge submissions.

GRYPHON HI-FI system: WANTED: 1980s/1990s WORLD DESIGN CANADIAN GUTWIRE
Mirage preamp, Mikado CD Sound Organisation record WDKEL84 Valve amplifier Synchrony 3 metre length
player, Colosseum stereo rack In black. Does anyone with upgrades. Mint speaker cables. Superb -
system (with the original have one for sale in the condition, will demonstrate. totally new condition. £700.
box) and Atlantis speakers. hi fi community. Tel: Keith Arcaydis bookshelf (Synchrony Interconnects
6 years old. Beautiful 07919061178 or Email: speakers EB1S-Oak (see available separately). Email:
condition. £65,000. Tel: [email protected] Hi-Fi World May 18 issue) stephen.adolphus
07974014536 or Email: (Liverpool) Mint/Boxed. Project 'The @gmail.com. Tel: 07787
edwards.elena Classic' Rosenut Turntable 574784.
@hotmail.com AVID PULSARE II 2 box with Ortofon Silver LEAK TROUGHLINE and
(London, NW8) phono stage, silver in Cartridge. Unused/Boxed. Hi-Fi World valve decoder
perfect condition. Very Pair Speaker Stands 24” set up by Tim de Paravicini
PROAC RESPONSE 1’s little use, boxed, manual Acoustics QA3108. Would less than a year ago, one of
standpoint speakers, £750. and all accessories plus a like to sell as a system. the finest tuners anywhere!
Atacama stands, £30. Audio custom made tubulus silver All in pristine condition. £700.Tel: 07940 507215 or
Innovations L2 pre-amp, umbilical chord. Selling Please Tel: 01159754070 Email: [email protected]
recently serviced, £380. due to downsizing. £2495 or 07531288156.
BK Gemini sub-woofer ovno. Demonstration on (Nottingham) NEAT MOTIVE 1
with new cable, £120. All in request. Contact Neil on Loudspeakers Cherrywood
good condition. Tel: 01772 07818 848715 or Email: USHER DANCER mini excellent speakers,
780 976 (Lancs) [email protected] condition and sound
Diamond-2’s speakers bargain, only £475!
In walnut with boxes,
QUAD 44 pre-amp, MC NAIM CDX2 player just £1500 Also available, London, 07957384795
phono, £250 ono. Marantz factory serviced £1175. matching Usher BE-616 (Evan)
PM 7001 amplifier switch NAP 200 power amplifier Diamond Dialogue speaker
to separate pre power £549. DVD5 CD/DVD in white £495. Can dem. DALI ZENS0R 5 speakers,
Marantz 606 amp.
boxed, £125. Thorens player £279.150X power Buyer collects. Tel: 07817 Upgrading. Buyer collect
TD166 Mk2 turntable. amplifier hardly used £399. 365 393 or 01162 415 435 please. Tel: Alan 01977 695
£125. Pioneer A88X 112X pre amplifier £225. 385 (West Yorkshire)
amplifier, 110wpc, £225 Tel/text 07584 358210 or (Leicestershire)
ono. Tel: 01708 457 691 Email: martind.home FOR SALE: EAR 834L
@btinternet.com OLSON SOUND line pre-amp by Tim de
FOR SALE: AUDIOLAB Fantastic 4 way mains Paravicini. Excellent and
8000P Power amplifier MARANTZ PM6006UK block extension excellent well looked after condition.
£300, Audiolab 8000C amplifier in black, as condition £60. Also Russ £650 ono. Tel: 07505 057
pre-amplifier, both in new/boxed £200. Tel. Andrews classic Powerkord 414 or Email: zylandaroya
good working condition. 07583078744 (Notts/ mains cable with very high @yahoo.com
For collection only. Cash Derby area) quality Isotek Wattgate
or bank transfer. Tel: connection £65 or special MISSION LX1 speakers in
07570454727 or Email: EPOS M12 M-2 offer both products black, as new, boxed, £50.
paulfi[email protected] loudspeakers, cherry, combined £100. Excellent Tel: 07583 078 744 (Notts/
(Birmingham) excellent condition, boxed, value. Call Andy on 01484 Derby area)
plus dedicated ST 12 427426.
REGA P3 with power loudspeaker stands, £200. CAMPAIGN AUDIO
Design mains cables.
supply, Apollo Mira3, Tel: 0786 4034 087 WANTED: TOP quality Hi- Conqueror MI 1m IECx2
Maia3 Pure tuner DRX Fi separates and complete £35 each. Candour 1m
701, Monitor Audio RX2, PMC FB1 loudspeakers. systems, Naim, Linn, Cyrus, IECx2 £10 each. Excellent
Atacama stands. Sound Light Oak. Excellent PMC, Audio Research etc, condition. Chord Cobra
Organisation stand, Chord Condition. Original Boxes. fast, friendly response and black sleeve interconnect
cables. All boxes. Bargain. Collection Preferred. £600. willing to travel/pay cash. pair. Offers? Tel: 07754
£950 ono. Tel: 07813 07814866496 or Email: Please call me on 0781 052359 or Email:
829 657 (Swadlincote, [email protected] 5892458 or Email me at davidsmith2712
Derbyshire) (Chester) [email protected] @gmail.com (East Sussex)
126 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

AUDIOPHILE BOOK



Whole








of Italy










Italian 1970s Prog Rock catalogued. Paul Rigby is
impressed.


70s Italian LPs

All Around A Hole - The Vinyl Collector’s
Notebook
Author: Paolo Verda

Price: �£75



erda’s first tome was of (23-hole) binder. It fits the bill and accompanied by 435 LPs (with
British artists’ LPs featur- does it well. index). Those artists include the likes
ing a combination of pro- Inside is a brief glossary of of Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso, Area,
gressive, psychedelic, folk, terms and then a ‘How to use your Electric Frankenstein, Goblin, Jacula,
blues and jazz issued in Notebook’ section. This section Janus, Le Orme, PFM and many more.
Vthe UK during the sixties shows you that you can fill in notes Each album is a mine of
and seventies. It is still available and about your collection in the book information. Let’s take Acqua Fragile’s
perfect for devoted fans of the same itself. There’s space to indicate if self-titled album from 1973. Apart
– and with superb design aimed at the item is in your collection, who from the date, label and catalogue
collectors. supplied it and at what price. You number, you’ll find alternative
This new book is based around the get a valuable guided tour of the versions (there’s two price points
the same general design but it various label stamps and indicators here for two variants), the price
focuses on Italian releases during denoting copyright information and for ‘mint’ (surely that’s ‘near mint’?)
the seventies. I was looking forward the various styles of the same and condition, sleeve info full text
to getting my hands on this one notes directed at bootlegs. rundown, physical oddities (there’s
because the bulk of the content The first main section is an a deep groove on the label on one
looks at progressive music in all its overview of the 110 Italian labels in variant of this LP), label printing and
varied forms. their 186 variants. These are listed matrix information.
During the seventies, Italy in alphabetical order with the main In short, everything a collector
produced some of the best prog represented bands included under and prospective buyer needs to
in the world. Wholly under-rated, each label heading. A sample image know and wants to look for. Ideal
terribly under-played and cruelly of each label is then presented with too for those wary of buying
ignored, there are enlightened prog a set description place underneath. a bootleg when it’s being sold
fans resident outside of Italy who All of the above is easy to locate as an original, for example. An
have been exposed to the delights and digest – with image quality accompanying image of the cover
of Italian prog but, if you’re into high – is easy. Paper quality is also and label is added.
prog and you’ve yet to taste its fine excellent, while the paper itself is In short, this is a brilliant, even
dining elements, then grab this book matt in finish – better than gloss dazzling book for Italian prog fans.
– firstly as a grounding or overview when you’re looking at a reference, One that every prog fan should
and then use its contents to inform especially if you use this book on the own. One that every vinyl collector
and educate. move, in varied lighting conditions. should own. I look forward to seeing
The design of the book is aimed You don’t want to be referring to where Verda journeys for his next
at music fans on the go. People who pages in a dealer’s location with project.
want to use the book as a tool. It’s strong lighting bouncing off a glossy
a book that's designed to be used page and you can’t read for the glare.
regularly. Hence, the thick, tough Then there’s the mammoth Contact:
outer boards and the multi-ringed Artists section of 250 artists www.allaroundahole.cloud/store.html

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 127

NEXT MONTH

FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE




McIntosh MA352 2-CHANNEL INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER

Next month we bring you this massive hybrid amplifier from McIntosh. Their new MA352 has a valve pre-amplifier section with
12AX7 and 12AT7 double triode valves (or tubes – this is a U.S. amp!) feeding a powerful 200 Watt per channel solid-state power
amplifier. Complete with blue illuminated McIntosh power output meters this beast is worth reading about. See what we think of it
in our next great issue.

Also, we hope to bring you –
KLIPSCH HERITAGE THE SIXES B’TOOTH POWERED SPEAKERS
TECHNICS SL-G700 SACD PLAYER
AUDIRECT BEAM PORTABLE USB DAC
FIIO M11 PRO HI RES DIGITAL AUDIO PLAYER
ACOUSTIC ENERGY AE500 SPEAKERS
MUTECH MC3 USB SMART CLOCK
...and much more.


















































This is a selection of what we hope to bring you,
not a complete list. We regret that due to a wide
range of issues, we cannot guarantee that all
products listed above will appear.




PICK UP THE FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE OF HI-FI WORLD ON SALE DECEMBER 31ST
2019, OR SUBSCRIBE AND GET IT DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR: SEE PAGE 96

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CLASSIC CUTS




PULP






HIS ’N’ HERS

ISLAND










A well enough to get out of it, I didn’t use it.
relatively modern selection for
I’ve never believed in exploiting disability”.
you this time around – and one
The LP that followed – ‘Freaks’

that is looked upon fondly by the
band because it dragged them
– did nothing at all. The acid house-infused
from years of obscurity towards a
that it was released three years after it was
well deserved period in the sun.
Created in Sheffield, Pulp is a band who ‘Separations’ LP was so coated in lethargy
finished. “Acid house definitely sidetracked
ripened on the vine towards a state of pure Pulp for a bit”. More singles were released.
genius. Not that they planned it that way, nor Then Island signed them on the strength
did they want to ripen on anything, thank you of one single: ‘Babies’. Afterward the band
very much. They wanted to be a hit from the released ‘His ’N’ Hers’ and – lo – light shone
off. down upon their bare heads and the angels
When Jarvis Cocker formed Pulp in 1978 smiled upon them. “This was just a great big
as Arabicus Pulp, they got off to a good start. sigh of relief really” said Cocker, “because
Grabbed some experience, tightened up as a for the first time ever in our long tortuous
unit and recorded a demo sometime in 1980- history we had enough time and money to
1981. do a record as we wanted to do it. It was
John Peel spiced it up and signed the band really good because, having waited so long for
"The band split for a session. “John Peel did a Roadshow in that kind of opportunity, we weren’t going to
mess it up”.
Sheffield and I gave him a tape” said Cocker.
again; another “He said he’d listen to it but I didn’t think he – well, they had to be by now hadn’t they?
What was revealed was a tight band
really would, but then he gave us a session,
one formed. The which was a very big thing for us. I mean, – a synth-pop combo infused by Cocker’s
John Peel was one of the reasons that I got
wit with hooks and Bowie/Roxy style. Full of
sound deepened into music. It was the first time anyone had sex but ideas too. Joy and portent. Nostalgia
and obsession. It was an album that had been
taken any notice of us so I thought, this is it
and darkened, then, this is what I’ll do with my life...doing a perfectly baked.

And Cocker does see that. He does
John Peel session made the group seem real”.
That was November 1981. At that point,
full of sex but the band would have been forgiven to expect believe that the sometimes Proustian
attention to detail on many of the band’s
songs stem from the early days. “The only
success to quickly follow but that just wasn’t
ideas too" the case. Disappointment reigned that the thing I can liken it to is as if you were locked
group split – most left to go to University.
in a room for a year – you would get to
Pulp released its first, slightly folkie LP know everything about that room and you
‘It’ (1984) to a hail of prairie winds and would pick up all the details. And I think
tumbleweed. So the band split again. Then that’s why our songs have often got a lot of
another one formed. The sound deepened detail in them, because I’ve had a lot of time
and darkened. A host of singles were on my hands to pick up on details. I do think
released on the Fire label (“I think it’s well that details are important in songs, I think
documented that they haven’t exactly got a that details reveal more than attempting to
glowing reputation in the eyes of many artists. paint a massive broad canvas. But waiting
‘Idiot Bother’ by The Auteurs is very strongly around for our time to come definitely had
rumoured to be about Fire Records”.) an effect on Pulp”.
Cocker, desperate to impress a girl one A new edition of the album has been
evening, fell out of a window and had to released, on white vinyl and over two discs,
perform his subsequent concerts from a remastered and cut at Abbey Road with a
wheelchair. “I never used the wheelchair as mastering quality that reflects that august
a stage prop” said Cocker. "As soon as I was body. PR

130 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

BY





In Tune With Your Music







































In collaboration with some of the world’s best audio brands













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���������� ensures that this turntable sounds sublime.”
Michael Fremer – Stereophile, November 2019 David Price and Paul Miller – Hi-Fi News, March 2019





“I love its no-nonsense styling, its physical compactness, ��������������������������������������������������������
the superlative build and its overall sound.” ����������������������������������������������������������
Hi-Fi Choice, April 2019 Noel Keywood – Hi-Fi World, June 2019







For dealers in the UK please call Padood on 01223 653199 or visit www.padood.com
For international sales please call SME on +44 1903 814321 or visit www.sme.co.uk

Over 30 years ago, Sonus faber
revolutionised loudspeaker design.


By applying Italian style to the laws of
physics, addressing both the visual
and the sonic concerns, the company
demonstrated that speakers need not
come in prosaic, dull boxes. The entire
industry owes thanks to this
pioneering brand.


Sonus faber’s legacy not only remains
intact, but embraces the introduction
of the Sonetto range. Entirely designed
and constructed in Northern Italy in their
purpose-built atelier, Sonetto speakers
convey the design language of the
���������������������������������������
and the cabinetry match each other for
elegance.


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musical experience.






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For Your Nearest Dealer Please Contact Absolute Sounds





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