Hi-Fi World (January 2020)

REVIEW




we measure 128dB from amplifier
output, or 124dB from DAC output
– both outstanding values.
In addition to being a unique
DAC, Hugo TT2 is also a pre-
amplifier and headphone amplifier
they say. Hmmm... Yes, it is, but it does
not have analogue inputs, so cannot
accept external analogue sources.
The ‘pre-amplifier’ bit relates to the
fact that very high gain is available,
enough to drive a power amplifier
direct or act as a power amplifier in
its own right. Two gain settings (Hi
and Lo), a big illuminated spherical
volume control (centre) and both
phono-socket (unbalanced) and XLR-
socket (balanced) analogue outputs
being fitted to make it all happen.
These days headphones rule
and Hugo TT2 is designed to cope, which
with no less than two full size 1/4in Chord
(6.35mm) jacks, plus a 3.5mm mini Electronics
jack, so no adaptors are needed. now supply
Those on-board power amps let matching
Hugo TT2 drive headphones down cables to
to 16 Ohms or lower, with massive ensure they reach
voltage swing so even the most 192kHz sample rate.
difficult of headphones offer no There are no AES/EBU
challenge. An unusual addition is balanced digital inputs.
three selectable levels of Crossfeed And there are two digital
between channels to give a more outputs for future use with
loudspeaker-like presentation. Chord Electronics products.
The only omission is the lack of a Another input is Bluetooth
balanced output. Plugging headphones with aptX compression, for
in disables amplifier mode (i.e. the streaming from mobile phones or
analogue outputs). any other device such as iPads and
There are arrays of digital inputs. portable players that now mostly
A fully isolated USB input allows come with Bluetooth. A small, light The illuminated volume ball on a shaft at front, con-
Hugo TT2 to be used as a computer’s (plastic) and simple remote control nected to green potentiometer behind. Six green
headphone DAC or to send audio unit is provided with all functions, super-capacitors (left) bolster the power supply. At
from the computer to the hi-fi. The including volume control, input right is the Bluetooth radio module. At centre the
TT2 accepts native DSD (PC only) up selection and filter selection. square black FPGA chip that holds the WTA filter
to x8 (DSD 512). At present double- There are four filters, an incisive and DAC.
rate x2 DSD (DSD128) is about the neutral filter (Filter 1) that offers
limit for music files, because of their ‘absolute reference’ they say, and the Electronics products Hugo TT2 is of
size. If you run a PC a DSD driver same with high frequency roll-off exceptional build and finish. The case
must be downloaded from (Filter 2) to ‘remove noise’ from is machined from solid alloy, making it
Chord Electronics to run hi-res files of 88.1kHz wonderfully strong and with superb
native or DoP; if you run a sample rate or higher. contours and detailing. The company
Mac the paid-for Audirvana Then there’s a filter with light up the whole device in their
Plus app. sends via DoP that ‘warmer tone’ (Filter 3) usual style: the spherical volume
works to DSD128 only in and again the same with control at centre changes colour to
Hugo TT2. high frequency roll-off show gain, the colour palette moving
In addition to the (Filter 4). Differences from red (low) up to green (sensible)
USB input there are two between these filters and then into blues to purples and
electrical S/PDIF digital were not great and sonic eventually white (max). Internally, the
inputs via BNC sockets, not differences small. They LEDs change colour on the circuit
the usual phono sockets. work with DSD also to board to indicate sample rate (or
They can be used indepen- reduce high frequency DSD) and this is visible through
dently, as usual, to accept a noise (2 and 4), a problem the top window. Case dimensions
digital stream from outside inherent to DSD. are 235mm wide, 223mm deep and
sources, or together as a Like all Chord 46mm high. with a weight of 2.53kgs.
special DBNC (Dual BNC) Power is supplied by a Chinese
input to accept the DBNC A small and light remote external switch-mode power supply
output of M Scaler. There with volume, filters and block that delivers 15V at a high 4A
are two optical inputs for inputs. through a cable 2340cm (11ft) long

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 51

REVIEW




in total. Chord Electronics exclusively provided hi-res and DSD replay, again Safri Duo’s 'Samb Allegro' – tremen-
use switch-mode supplies and are connected by the supplied USB cable. dously fast but punchy bass. It
happy with them, even though I started off with high dynamic seemed perfectly timed and I heard
they are shunned by many others. range (uncompressed) rock from CD texture where I had not before, here
To compensate for any possible and with Nils Lofgren singing 'Keith in the synth kick-drum beat that
limitations in supply transient Don’t Go' got quite a shock. It was underpins the track so dramatically.
behaviour ’super capacitors’ are fitted obvious straight away that this DAC Modern hi-res recordings such as
to store charge within the unit. has the company’s trademark sound Marta Gomez singing 'Maria' (24/96)
And finally to the power – but supercharged. In basic character bettered CD in obvious fashion by
amplifier potential of Hugo TT2. think crystal clear and vividly fleshing out a performance with
Hugo TT2 produces 20 Watts from insightful, with no hint of warmth. more intense inner detail – making
its XLR outputs. However, it doesn’t There was an airy spaciousness to CD sound a tad barren by way of
have the heat sinking or devices to the sound, made more apparent contrast. With this superb recording,


























At left, twin BNC output sockets (for future products). Next along, two large XLR socket outputs
flanked by phono-socket outputs. Then come twin BNC digital inputs that together form a DBNC
input. At right are TOSLINK optical inputs and a USB B computer connection.


produce such power on a continuous by a very broad soundstage where images were hewn from stone with
basis. It works fine and goes loud, the audience yelped and shouted clear space between them – and a
but very loud will overheat (there from hard left to hard right in lively vivid dynamic all but defining what
are protection circuits). Small fashion, yet they were clear of the high-fidelity must be.
loudspeakers are insensitive so vocals with well-identified distance. Fleetwood Mac’s 'Dreams'
expect lower volume – but they will This sense of dimensional resolution (24/96) – a hi-res transcription from
work well enough on a desk where with hard images on a wide yet firm an old analogue master tape (1977)
speakers are close to your ears.
"breathtaking clarity, giving a
SOUND QUALITY
I used Martin Logan ESL-X hybrid starkly clear and concise sound
electrostatic loudspeakers driven by
a Creek Evolution 100A amplifier unmatched elsewhere.
via its direct XLR inputs (no volume
control) through Chord Company
Epic XLR cables. Loudspeaker cables canvas remained throughout my – hit me with a dramatic start from
were Chord Company (not Chord listening. Lofgren’s rapid finger-picking Mick Fleetwood’s drum kit that
Electronics; they are different and was super clear, with better timing had surgical punch – but some of
unrelated companies) Signature UL between fine details from the strings the cymbal crashes were too well
cables. The unit was run in Amp than I have ever heard, giving a sense revealed. I know the top end of
mode, mostly Filter 1 and with of intense insight. It was breath- this track is a bit raspy and here
volume set at light blue where full taking – and not just because of the Hugo TT2 made the fact obvious. In
dynamic range is available. qualities mentioned but because of a effect it revealed limitations in the
Digital was delivered from an sense of great dynamic contrast too. transcription or original recording.
Oppo BDP-205D Universal player An astonishing level of revelation was Comparisons got interesting with
acting as a CD transport, coupled obvious from this track alone, as well Diana Krall singing 'Narrow Daylight'
optically to the Hugo with the cable as ability to lay out the acoustic being on hi-res PCM (24/96) and DSD64.
supplied that was a tighter fit into the picked up by Lofgren’s mic. To my surprise there was not much
TOSLINK socket than our cables. A Another almost-peculiar difference. Both were relentlessly
MacBook Pro running Audirvana Plus property made itself very clear with sharp in timing, clean and clear, DSD
52 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

REVIEW




without the romance I associate with I fancied there was a tad
it. more detail but then
With classical DSD tracks like there was less
Dejan Lazic playing Brahms' 'Piano low-end drive,
Concerto No3' although there David Bowie's
was fabulous insight - the almost 'Suffragette City'
relentless clarity of this DAC made missing a bit of
for a lack of organic warmth that propulsive power. So a
was not what I expect from DSD. bit of a compromise here
Again though, the tremendous sense but do-able all the same.
of timing and broad sound stage Headphones are best used at Our DIY loudspeaker adaptor
gave Hugo TT2 a sense of rigid Lo gain that limits output to 3V leads, XLR to 4mm line socket
composure no other DAC can match, – more than enough. Sound quality (not available commercially; go
strings coming through with assured showed all the traits I heard with to RS Components).
presence. loudspeakers, cross-feed (XFeed)
After writing the above I was making the experience less in-head. peculiarly tight yet punchy bass. It is
told Hugo TT2 converts DSD to a little short on warmth, especially
PCM, presumably because the CONCLUSION with DSD, majoring on deep analysis
custom FPGA chip lacks a DSD Hugo TT2 resolves both CD and hi- instead – undoubtedly its forte.
process route with low pass filter. res digital with breathtaking clarity, To hear CD and hi-res like you’ve
This explains what I heard though. giving a starkly clear and concise never heard it before, and as you will
With hi-res classical such as sound unmatched elsewhere. It not hear it anywhere else, this is the
the Minnesota Orchestra playing also has fantastic timing and almost DAC to audition.
Korsakov’s 'Dance of the Tumblers'
from 'The Snow Maiden' (24/96),
TT2's large canvas made the MEASURED PERFORMANCE
orchestra sound both vast and The crucial EIAJ Dynamic Range value full scale (0dB FS) to match other
dynamically engaging, kettle drums of Hugo TT2 was 124dB in DAC mode manufacturers. Our -60dB test is more
having sudden and solid power when and 128dB in Amplifier mode, set to Hi meaningful and now widely used. S/PDIF
struck, the instruments all seemingly gain and with volume advanced to avoid and USB gave identical figures.
well separated with clear air between output clipping (light blue on the volume Distortion with CD (16bit) measured
them. Again, it was time to run up the control). Both are exceptionally high 0.19% at -60dB, not a lot different to
volume! values not bettered elsewhere, although usual due to quantisation noise inherent
This was something I kept doing ESS DACs match the figure. in 16bit. Dynamic range was 101dB.
and suddenly the penny dropped. DesignerRob Watts insists distortion The S/PDIF electrical (BNC socket)
Using Amp mode at high gain – light is more important than dynamic range and optical digital inputs (with supplied
blue and above on the volume sphere and here the Hugo TT2 produced a optical cable) both accepted 192kHz
– maximises dynamic range. And I record low value of 0.008% at -60dB sample rate PCM, frequency response
was running at light blue and above, with 24bit - see our analysis. At best measuring flat to 55kHz (-1dB) with Filter
effectively achieving a dynamic range rivals manage 0.02% so Hugo TT2 has 1 and 3 before slow roll off to the 96kHz
of 130dB or more. That’s way above half their distortion. Note that Chord upper theoretical limit, our analysis
the 120dB of top class rivals. Electronics only quote distortion at showing Filter 1. Filters 2 and 4 had a
An issue Hugo TT2 raised FREQUENCY RESPONSE 21kHz (-1dB) upper limit – low. They are
was that of ‘insight’. It appears to quite strong filters..
have insight into digital, as it were. At Lo gain the headphone outputs CHORD
Transcriptions of old analogue perfor- delivered 3V max, at Hi gain 8V max. ELECTRONICS
mances had their faults revealed and – more than enough for all headphones. HUGO TT2 £3,995
did not sound wholly better. Modern Distortion an dynamic range values were
hi-res recordings fairly assaulted identical to Line out at Hi gain, just tad
me with everything from detail to lower at Lo gain. OUTSTANDING - amongst
dynamics, sounding almost too good Results with M Scaler were identical the best.
to be true. Good CD was fine but although dynamic range did reach
old CD was revealed as, well – old 129dB. VERDICT
Fabulous DAC with
CD and not so nice. DISTORTION Hugo TT2 delivers class leading analytical and precise sound.
Bluetooth worked well once measured performance in all areas. It has Unimpressive with DSD.
I had entered the PIN number huge dynamic range and unusually low
demanded, which the handbook fails distortion. NK FOR
to mention: it is 0000. Interesting that - great sound from CD
the limitations of aptX compression - styling and build quality
- small size
became quite obvious in contrast to Frequency response 5Hz-55kHz - wide range of inputs
all else. Distortion (-60dB, 24bit) 0.008%
And finally Hugo TT2 did indeed Dynamic range (EIAJ) 128dB AGAINST
drive our Martin Logan ESL-X Noise -126dB - lacks warmth
- dry DSD
loudspeakers quite loud (Hi gain) Output Hi gain (Ph/XLR) 8.5V / 17V
3V / 6V
via the XLR output sockets, using a Output Lo gain (Ph/XLR) 2.5V / 5V Chord Electronics
Output DAC (Ph/XLR)
pair of adaptor leads I soldered up Output H’phone (Lo / Hi) 3V / 8V +44 (0)1622 721444
(XLR to 4mm line socket). At times www.chordelectronics.com
www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 53

Choo se You r System Audiop hile Sou nd Lux ur y Design



With a plethora of choice within the Reference Cerametallic woofers are the Reference Premiere The Reference Premiere range features stylish
™
Premiere range including four floorstanders, five range signature statement for both sound and copper rings around the horn mouth and woofer.
centre speakers, various surround options and three aesthetics, ensuring the low-end delivery remains in Each cabinet boasts a premium wood finish,
subwoofers; it is simple to customise your sound. control regardless of how hard you want to push it. available either in Ebony (Black) or Walnut.






Distributed by Henley Audio
Distributed by Henley Audio
T: +44 (0) 1235 511 166 | E: [email protected] | W: www.henleyaudio.co.uk
T: +44 (0) 1235 511 166 | E: [email protected] | W: www.henleyaudio.co.uk | : HenleyAudioUK | : HenleyAudio
T: +44 (0) 1235 511 166 | E: [email protected] | W: www.henleyaudio.co.uk | : HenleyAudioUK | : HenleyAudio

Klipsch Ref Prem A4.indd 2 02/09/2019 16:11

REVIEW



A Few Taps








More











Chord Electronics release a unique product – M Scaler. It's a one-million tap digital filter
that transforms CD, they say. Noel Keywood listens.



o celebrate producing a produce better sound! one optical via a TOSLINK socket,
one million tap digital filter To clarify the purpose of for connection to an external DAC.
Chord Electronics have this product, it is to get the very This can be any DAC, not just one
released M Scaler. M Scaler best from CD, by first scaling up from Chord Electronics – if with
isn’t a product you’ll find sample rate from the low 44.1kHz limitations I’ll explain later. For Hugo
Telsewhere, even though – necessary in 1982 when Philips TT2 and other Chord Electronics
upscaling is not a new idea. However, and Sony were developing CD – to products there is also a Dual BNC
M Scaler doesn’t just upscale, it also 705.6kHz that will run on today’s (DBNC) output pair that outputs at
possesses a Watts Transient Aligned silicon. Then the stream is passed the full 768kHz sample rate.
(WTA) filter in its most advanced through the WTA filter and on to an Input wise, there are two
ever state because of those mile- array of outputs. There are standard electrical BNC socket inputs, two
stone one million taps. That’s what S/PDIF digital outputs in the form of TOSLINK opticals and one galvan-
you pay £3495 for. And trust it will one electrical via a BNC socket, and ically isolated USB for connection














































www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 55

REVIEW




but Chord Electronics disarmingly
indicate in a chart within M Scaler’s
handbook that there’s no sound
quality improvement, except when
blue (x2) is selected (why white also
at x2 gives no improvement I have no
idea).
To summarise simply, M Scaler
works best with CD and 48kHz
sample rate files, with output taken
from the DBNC socket-pair to a
Chord Electronics DAC with DBNC
input.
Queried about the special
DBNC connection, Rob Watts
told me it is an AES S/PDIF
dual-mono mode with
changes to the data
bits to flag this status.
DBNC does not
bypass all Hugo TT2’s
filters by the way; the
first of three stages is
bypassed, the second two stages
remain active.
Like Hugo TT2, build and finish of
M Scaler is impressive, its case
being machined from solid
at a sample rate alloy, making it wonderfully
that suits such DACs, strong and with superb
meaning you can’t input contours and detailing. Case
24/96 hi-res and upscale dimension are 235mm wide,
Under the cover – another x16 to a sizzling 1.5MHz 236mm deep and 40.5mm
cover! This one with non- ‘cos there’s no DAC out high, with weight of 2.55kgs.
removable screws to shield there able to take it – and Power is supplied by
from prying eyes, as well as cables become an issue too. the same Chinese external
provide further RF screening. Consequently, with a 96kHz switch-mode power supply
At front in a line are the acrylic input M Scaler upscales x8 block used with Hugo TT2,
spheres that act as illuminated to 768kHz max, but only delivering 15V at a high 4A
through its DBNC output
through a cable 335cms
switches.
sockets to feed Chord (11ft) long in total.
Electronics products like There is a video mode
to a computer. Both a front panel Hugo TT2 with a matching that reduces filter time
spherical button (2nd from left) or DBNC input. The single delay (0.6secs) so speech
the remote control can be used BNC outlet for other synchronises with the
to step between inputs, the button DACs is limited to 384kHz picture, achieving this by
changing colour to show selection. under all conditions so as reducing the number of filter
Output sample rate is set by an to suit both their DAC chips and taps.
illuminated spherical button third-in commercial interconnect cables. The USB input did not accept
from left. Lit red the unit is set to I mention cables because optical DSD from my MacBook Pro laptop
running Audirvana, that is packaged as
"Like Hugo TT2, build and finish DoP code. It may accept native DSD
from a PC, but you can’t get a Mac to
of M Scaler is impressive" do this. M Scaler is about improving
PCM, not reproducing DSD.
bypass, then with CD x2 upsample TOSLINK cables barely work past SOUND QUALITY
to 88.2kHz is green, x4 to 176.4kHz 96kHz, not just because of internal I used M Scaler mainly with CD
is blue and max upscale of x16 to losses and low bandwidth of the delivered in optically from our Oppo
705.6kHz is white. Now on to practi- cheap plastic optical conductor, but BDP-205D Universal player acting
calities. also because of imprecise termination as a CD transport. Unsurprisingly
M Scaler as a real world product in TOSLINK sockets – wiggle ‘em perhaps, it does not change the
must feed external commercial DACs at high sample rates and see what sound of Hugo TT2 so much as
and at present most DAC chips work happens! So the optical output of M magnify it to a degree that was eye
up to but not higher than 768kHz; Scaler is restricted to 192kHz for popping. With Nils Lofgren’s Keith
older designs 352.8kHz. So whatever entirely practical reasons. The data Don’t Go the sound stage became
goes into M Scaler must come out still passes through the WTA filter even larger and more densely
56 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

REVIEW




























At left, two gold plated BNC digital inputs, two optical inputs and a USB for computer connection
(centre). Then optical and BNC outputs, and right twin DBNC outputs for Chord Electronics products
with matching DBNC inputs.


powerful, as if images had gained muddle from the sound of M- was unspectacular, but a compli-
physical weight. There was more DAC+, separating images and events, cating factor was I had to use the
internal detail too. The only slight retrieving more atmosphere from Arcam’s unbalanced outputs to feed
alteration, rather than amplification, recordings and also broadening the Creek’s line input and volume
was a subtle smoothing of the sheen the sound stage with firmer and control; neither Arcam or Creek have
on strings, from Nigel Kennedy more strongly embodied images. volume adjustment on their balanced
playing Massenet’s Meditation. Even better, the full bodied sound lines. So perhaps some muddle crept
in as a result. Whatever, whilst this
"the sound stage became larger combo worked at a functional level, it
did not convey the sonic benefits of
and more densely powerful, as M Scaler.
The warning here then is M

if images had gained physical Scaler has problems interfacing with
DACs other than Hugo TT2. Yet at
weight" the same time I thought its coupling
with M-DAC+ was sublime and, for
me at least, I would rate this pairing
worth hearing. The extraordinary
However, with Marianne Thorsen of M-DAC+, with its on-board high cleanliness, composure and timing of
playing Mozart’s Violin Concerto in current, low noise linear power M Scaler, as well as its sound staging
G Major (24/96) her violin was still supply was retained, even slightly properties were all passed to M-
sheeny, but this recording has always enhanced by the smoothing effect DAC+ that in turn sent out a sound CHORD
been so. M Scaler, like Hugo TT2, of M Scaler – I fell in love with this that was big bodied and easy going. ELECTRONICS
does not euphonically process such combo! Korsakov’s Dance of the HUGO M SCALER
recordings so much as expose their Tumblers (24/96) became even CONCLUSION £3,495
intrinsic character. larger, orchestral instruments more Chord Electronics M Scaler embodies
M Scaler’s benefits become less distinctly separated. Diana Krall Rob Watts view of how to perfectly
apparent at higher sampling rates singing Narrow Daylight (24/96) came reproduce digital. I thought it was OUTSTANDING - amongst
used in hi-res recordings (e.g. 24/96). into stronger focus, accompanied by devastating. You get to clearly hear the best
With Marta Gomez singing Maria a slightly smoother quality. how CD can sound when all the
(24/96), images were densified and The one wrinkle here was M- rubbish is swept away, performers VERDICT
If you want the best from CD,
the sound stage hardened up, but by DAC+ would only see 176.4kHz and instruments all being placed in M Scaler is a must-listen.
a smaller if still useful degree than sample rate maximum, falling silent solid form on a wide and clear sound Expensive but worryingly
the changes heard with CD. at 352.8kHz from M Scaler, so x4 stage. Add in almost-peculiar bass good.
The idea of putting M Scaler was available, not x8. Changing cables timing and resolution and you end up
in front of a DAC other than the made no difference. with a sound not available elsewhere. FOR
- sound quality
distinctive sounding Hugo TT2 With an Arcam CDS50 CD It’s expensive – as you must - small size
could be very interesting I thought, player interface difficulties became expect from a technological exercise - build quality
or a damp squib. It was both. Our strange. The Arcam flagged up sample dedicated to FPGA silicon to make
Audiolab M-DAC+ was a prime rate from M Scaler as 44.1kHz it happen and commercially available. AGAINST
candidate and a qualified success; an only where M-DAC+ had already It works most assuredly with Chord - inconsistent with ext. DACs
- no DSD
Arcam CDS50 CD/SACD player a shown it varied as stated. I tested the Electronics DACs having a DBNC
failure. See my column. CDS50 on a digital generator and it input and is for PCM, not DSD. Book Chord Electronics
From CD through to hi-res correctly showed input sample rate, a demo and have a listen. This is a +44 (0)1622 721444
M Scaler quite clearly removed so no fault here. Worse, sound quality unique and extraordinary product. www.chordelectronics.com

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 57

The First Word in


Music Streaming.




































































Music. Literally the first word in ‘music England, the slimline ND5 XS 2, Awards for NDX 2
streaming’, and always our top priority. Classic superstar NDX 2 (pictured) and
Our network players feature cutting-edge flagship ND 555 players are winning
technology – developed over 3 years by 25 Awards around the world. Hear the
expert engineers at our Salisbury HQ – but difference with your favourite music at your AUDIO EXCELLENCE
more importantly stay true to our founding local Naim specialist retailer.
mission, to take you closer to the authentic
emotion of the music you love.

So, whether you’re listening to your own
digital library, commercial music services
such as TIDAL and Spotify, internet radio,
or exploring the world of Roon, you’ll enjoy
music streamed with our signature pace,
rhythm and timing. Handmade here in naimaudio.com/streaming





NDX 2 - Streaming - SP 2.indd 1 08/11/2019 16:22

REVIEW



Pocket Wizard











A tiny player at a great price, with wizard performance, Noel Keywood finds.



owon’s Plenue D2 por- size allied to high performance but a small side rocker – inconvenient –
table digital player is a tiny – and here’s a wrinkle – the claimed and volume level readout is numerical
pocket wizard. It is small performance is only available from only, positioned beside the battery
enough to be stashed the unit’s tiny 2.5mm balanced level indicator at top right. Beneath
anywhere, has a claimed headphone jack. OK, the unbalanced the volume control lies a Play/pause
C30 hour playback life with 3.5mm jack isn’t far off, also offering a button and forward/back track skip.
hi-res and – Cowon claim – packs a great result. The D2 comes with 64GB of
performance not bettered elsewhere. Weighing 98gms on our scales, internal storage for music and this
I hardly believed their figures – but the D2 feels solid but not overly can be boosted by using a micro-SD
they’re true. heavy. Measuring 79.2mm high, card of up to 128GB. Plenty enough
However, there are some points 53.1mm wide and 15mm deep it for MP3 and CD files, but DSD
to consider. The D2 is purposed will even fit a shirt’s top pocket comes in at 100MB a track or more
as a very high quality portable for and – happily – Cowon put both remember – and the Plenue D2 plays
headphone use; it has no digital headphone outputs on the top face, DSD if you so wish.
output for connection to a hi-fi not the bottom like some. However, The user interface has been
DAC, nor a digital input for use as there’s no rotary volume control at kept reasonably simple and obvious,
a computer’s headphone amplifier. top, only a circular power button making the D2 easy enough to use,
Price is a modest £250. You get small that looks like one. Volume is set by but the graphics are inevitably a
bit on the small side. Since this is
a touch screen you have to peck
at small active areas, but sensitivity
was good, making for a reasonably
assured response. Startup was almost
instantaneous, at around 5 seconds
and the screen is bright and clear;
I had no trouble reading it, unlike
some. An info screen gives bit depth,
sample rate, data rate and type
encoding.
Cowon supply the D2 with a
120cm long cable with a micro-
USB to USB A plugs for charging
or computer connection. The unit
will play whilst on a charger and is
compatible with both Mac and PC,
updating automatically when loaded
with new music files I found – a nice
touch.
























www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 59

REVIEW




The prominent violin of Marianne
Thorsen playing Mozart’s Violin
Concerto in G Major, backed by
the Trondheim Soloists (2L Noway,
24/96) was both vivacious and
deeply detailed, yet free from that
rasp digital adds. There was strong
separation of instruments in the
backing Trondheim Soloists, and
from her lead violin. The delicacy of
her playing was conveyed strongly,
especially in solos, making for a
sound that drew me in.
With Marta Gomez singing Maria
At top a 3.5mm headphone socket (right) and a smaller 2.5mm (24/96) her vocals sounded close and
socket that provides balanced output. The circular control is a detailed, surrounded by a sense of
power button only. cosseting smoothness. No hardness
here either, with accordion and
Music file formats are Wav, Flac, is more than it looks. blocks nicely defined. With Fleetwood
WMA, MP3, AIFF, ALAC, Ape and Ogg, However, whilst the balanced Mac’s classic rock Go Your Own
plus DSD of dff, dsf and Iso headers. output socket gives massive volume Way (24/96), replete with sizzling
DSD64 and 128 are supported. A and extraordinary dynamic range, 70s pace set by Mick Fleetwood’s
five band equaliser is fitted, plus no I find 2.5mm jack plugs virtually frantic drumming, the D2 fairly flew
end of special effects. Buried in the unusable – they snap. Suitable for along. Interestingly, where I hear rasp
Music settings menu are fast and driving a hi-fi system perhaps where from this track in cymbal crashes via
slow digital filters but they have only the plug will not be stressed – if you Chord Electronic’s revealing Hugo
subtle sonic effect, especially with hi- can find a 2.5mm 4-pole plug to XLR TT2, the Plenue D2 seemed able to
res. male plug adaptor lead and your hi-fi gloss over the issue. All was smooth




















A micro-SD slot on the left side of the player accepts up to
128GB of extra memory storage.

has XLR balanced inputs. Not suitable
A host of sound effects are for the rough and tumble of portable
provided, Normal being the use, where the stronger 3.5mm
straight-through option. plug is needed. These comments
apply to all players with 2.5mm
balanced 4-pole jacks of course, not
Portable player manufacturers just to the D2. All the same, the
make much of their technologies, D2’s 3.5mm unbalanced headphone
a trend set by Astell&Kern, also of output still gave superb results under
Korea like Cowon. This has spawned measurement.
an arms race between companies in
Korea and China, one that Cowon SOUND QUALITY
seem determined to win with the My overwhelming impression of this
D2. They equip it with a CS43131 player from the 3.5mm jack was
dual DAC chip from Cirrus Logic, a sense of silky smoothness that
that has built in headphone amplifiers took the digital out of digital. But
– hence the optimised figures. Our that’s how modern DAC chips are
measurements confirmed Cowon’s evolving sound quality wise – and
claims (see Measured performance). the new (Oct 17) CS43131 DAC
They’re right up with the best hi-fi chip designed for portable use is an The main play screen with trans-
DACs. Under the skin, this tiny player impressive newcomer to the field. port controls and cover artwork.
60 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

REVIEW




due to its on-chip dual DACs. Easy punchier but not an option with the
going yet with nice dynamic push, D2.
Cyndee Peter’s warbling slightly
too far back in my view, due to the CONCLUSION
mixing, not this player; Eric Burdon’s Cowon’s pocketable Plenue D2 sets
original was grittier. performance standards in digital
I couldn’t resist connecting the – remarkable for such as small,
2.5mm balanced output jack direct unassuming device. I found it fast to
to the balanced inputs of our Creek start, fast in response to screen inputs
Evolution 100A amplifier and thence and easy to use. It lacks digital output
on to Martin Logan ESL-X hybrid or input, being a basic player for
electrostatic loudspeakers to see headphones, although both headphone
how it fared acting as a high quality jacks will drive a hi-fi system via
balanced analogue source. It retained analogue connection via adaptor leads,
its sense of creamy smoothness, with the player working from 5V USB
if with the soft bass digital players power supply. In this fashion it can be
usually exhibit from their battery seen as an alternative to a CD player
power supplies; digital connection – one also able to play hi-res digital.
into a mains powered DAC is A fine player then, well worth its price.
An options screen shows ability
to alter play speed!


and easy, yet lively all the same, Stevie
Nick’s vocals rising out from the rock
melee behind her.
Popping in a micro-SD card
loaded with DSD, rather than my
card of selected PCM review tracks, I
was greeted by better DSD rendition
than usual; Cirrus Logic have nailed
this one. The CS43131 smooths PCM
to DSD presentation in this player,
but Diana Krall’s Narrow Daylight
(DSD64) edged it out as easier, The 2.5mm 4pole balanced output jack can drive a balanced
clearer and more fluid in progress. amplifier input through XLR plugs. This is our test adaptor.
Cyndee Peter’s singing House of
New Orleans (.dsf, DSD
128) had strikes against a triangle MEASURED PERFORMANCE
ringing sweetly in one of my ears, Output measured 2V from the 3.5mm jack. This is enough to go loud with
and cymbal strokes with a brush unbalanced headphone jack, and 4V all headphones, even high impedance
obvious in the other. This track has from the 2.5mm balanced headphone types. It is also correct for driving a hi-fi
hard left and right images and the D2 amplifier’s line input: the D2 can be used
reproduced them strongly, perhaps FREQUENCY RESPONSE as a ‘CD player’ in effect. COWON PLENUE
Distortion values (24bit, -60dB) D2 £259.00
were exceptionally low, just 0.008% £
from 3.5mm out, and 0.005% from the
2.5mm out (balanced). As a result EIAJ OUTSTANDING - amongst
Dynamic Range values were 128dB and the best.
133dB respectively, a stringent way of
confirming Cowon’s claimed SNR value VALUE - keenly priced.
of 130dB. These are exceptional figures, VERDICT
ahead of all hi-fi DACs. Advanced digital performance
DISTORTION Frequency response (192kHz sample and smooth sound from a tiny
rate) measured flat from 5Hz to 84kHz player. Recommended.
with the Fast filters and just slightly less
with the Slow filters; there was little FOR
difference to the amplitude response. - sound quality
- superb DSD
The Plenue D2 delivers impressive - small size
measured performance, ahead of all - clear screen
other players – and most hi-fi DACs too.
NK AGAINST
- no manual volume control
- no digital output
Frequency response (-1dB) - small touch areas
4Hz-84kHz
The track data screen identifies Distortion (-60dB) 0.005% Advanced MP3 players
data format type – DSD here as Dynamic range 133dB +44 (0)343 289 6880
'1bits' with a .dsf file header. Output (unbalanced/bal) 2V / 4V www.advancedmp3players.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 61

Award Winning Valve Amplifiers Since 2000
































































Up to 20% off B grade &
Ex-demonstration items
Technically perfect with minor cosmetic
blemishes. Full Guarantee. Come and audition
in our Leicester showroom. Most models
available Ring or email for availability.
Subject to availability*. Prices vary.
FREE! High Quality Bluetooth speaker
worth £75 with each order over £1000*



As a small company with our own manufacturing facility we aim to make the best value in valve amplifiers! From 15 Solar Powered just leave by a window to charge!
watts per channel to 80w integrated or 16w to 250w mono blocks. Immerse yourself in our warm easy listening
detailed sound. David Shaw has been making innovative highly regarded amplifiers for 19 years which are all leaders
in their class, some like the unique ST845 or HP8 (and now HP205D) have no equal, and others like the ST60 and 0% APR Interest Free Credit
ST40 are “outstanding” in performance and value for money. All our amplifiers are handmade, “point to point” with our
own hand wound transformers in our own factory and finished in Leicester. Built to last and be easily serviced. Purchases over £1120 ask for a quotation*
Various upgrades are available including capacitors and valves. As a UK company we offer rapid economical service
on all our products both old and new. Come for a listen at our Leicester showroom or order from one of our appointed 50% OFF MFV3 Floor Stand Speakers
dealers. For more information see our website, ring or email us, or ask for our latest brochure printed on real paper!
Buy direct from us or through one of dealers or worldwide distributors When purchased with above amplifiers. Slight seconds
Limited stock subject to availability UK only. Some models show upgraded valves. E&OE normally £1199 std or £1799 super. Limited offer
www.iconaudio.com [email protected] (+44) 0116 2440593 351 Aylestone Rd Leicester LE2 8TA UK

REVIEW



Fantastic FiiOs










FiiOs latest flagship FH5 in-ear monitors are affordable yet refined and impressive, says Jon Myles.





































iiO are best known for There’s one 10mm polymer
their affordable range of dynamic driver allied to three
high-resolution digital audio balanced armature devices – one
players (DAPs) and por- for midrange and two for high There’s
table DACs – but recently frequencies. These go through some
Fthey’ve been making a big three discrete tubes which warmth to the
impression with some value-for- FiiO claims filters out unwanted mid-range but it
money in-ear monitors. resonances. is not over done. Playing
Its FH1, F9 and F9 Pro models The supplied cable is also better St Etienne’s ‘Tales From Turnpike
received Hi-Fi World’s seal of than most. Just over a metre long, it House’ (24/96) the separation FiiO FH5 £230
approval a few months ago (see is made of silver-plated copper inside between the instruments was £
review in the July 2018 issue). Priced a transparent insulation, terminated excellent. Sarah Cracknell’s vocals OUTSTANDING - amongst
at £74.99, £109.99 and £139.99 with MMCX connectors. Thick and had a sweet, vibrant tone to them. the best.
respectively they were capable of weighty, over-ear guides help reduce My reference Noble K10 in-ears did
matching headphones costing signifi- strain on the ears. extract more detail from the same VALUE - keenly priced.
cantly more in terms of sound quality. A variety of ear-tips are included songs but they are significantly dearer.
Now the Chinese company has to make sure buyers can get the With Deep Purple’s ‘Smoke On VERDICT
upped the ante with a flagship FH5 required fit and sound isolation; the The Water’ I was also struck by the One of the best in-ear
monitors you can buy at this
in-ear monitor costing £230. And supplied carrying case is robust. overall musicality of the FiiOs. price. Superb construction
again this model includes features Putting the FiiOs against similarly and a smooth sound.
usually reserved for some dearer SOUND QUALITY priced in-ear monitors from the likes
designs from other manufacturers. Playing ‘Ocean Beneath The of Sony and Sennheiser they had the FOR
For a start the FH5 has a striking Waves’ by The War On Drugs via edge every time. If you are looking - design
- quad drivers
design. Its all-metal housings are an Astell&Kern DAP it was bass for a brilliantly built, good sounding - price
made from an aluminium-magnesium response that hit home first. IEM at this price then these new - comfort
alloy with a ripple design on the This track has a rolling bass line FiiOs fit the bill.
outside. Good as that looks it’s the that often sounds rather muddy AGAINST
internals that really matter – and through in-ear monitors. Not with CONCLUSION - rather heavy
here FiiO has introduced a truly these FiiOs though. It punched hard A quad driver, quality in-ear monitor Advanced Players Ltd
different design featuring a quad without any overhang. The snare for just £230? FiiO has raised the bar +44 (0)343 289 6880
driver arrangement. drum was also crisp and sharp. with their FH5s. www.advancedmp3players.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 63

REVIEW



Perfect








Statement











Tellurium Q has unveiled a new flagship range of cables - and Jon Myles is
taken aback by their clarity.



ellurium Q’s founder something changed - because such as this - and one which
and chief designer we currently have the new might annoy customers who
Geoff Merrigan told Statement cable which sits at have purchased previous cables
me some time ago the top of Tellurium Q’s range from Tellurium Q under the
the company’s flag- of loudspeaker cables. impression that they couldn’t
Tship Silver Diamond Allied to these are a set be bettered.
cables were the pinnacle of of RCA phono interconnects, But, as Geoff told me, he
what they could achieve and balanced XLRs as well as did not think that was possible
he didn’t see how they could a mains lead. It’s a big step until a thought struck him
be bettered. forward for the brand to and he started experimenting
Between then and now introduce a whole new range with different constructions















































Tellurium Q Statement 'speaker cables
64 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

REVIEW




and materials. Exactly what these
are is hard to define as Tellurium
Q is famously secretive about the
development and science behind its
products.
But, as ever, the devil is in the
detail which means the sound quality
of all the individual cables.
SOUND QUALITY
Starting off with the new Statement
‘speaker cables connected to a
McIntosh MC152 and feeding a
pair of Martin Logan ESL-X hybrid
electrostatic loudspeakers there was
a tremendous difference to any other Tellurium Q Statement RCA interconnects
leads I’ve heard.
These new Statements are
starkly revealing. Playing New
Order’s ‘Bizarre Love Triangle’ the
tempo, scale and overall sense of
musicality was immense. What these
loudspeaker cables do well is get out
of the way and allow you to hear by Tom Waits his gruff vocals became
just what is being delivered by the even more guttural and had a greater
amplifier and loudspeakers. resonance and presence.
It is as though a filter has been Next I plugged in the
removed so everything becomes interconnects - starting with the
clearer and more distinct. With RCAs and then moving on to
the opening bars of The Smiths the balanced XLRs. With both
classic ‘The Queen Is Dead’ album there was a noticeable increase
the resonance and detail from in the depth of soundstage.
Johnny Marr’s guitar patterns were Perhaps not a light and day difference
astonishing. Having used and enjoyed but certainly enough to let you know
Tellurium Q’s cables in a number of these cables have a certain synergy
systems the level of openness these about them. stayed longer and the decay was
new loudspeaker cables provided was With Arvo Part’s ‘Cantus In more vivid. So too was the opening
truly outstanding. Memoriam Benjamin Britten’ the of the same composer’s delicate
With ‘Way Down In The Hole’ echoing of the violins at the climax ‘Spiegel Im Spiegel’. The violins had a




































Tellurium Q Statement Power cable

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 65

REVIEW




tonality and presence that few cables There is a caveat however. more substantial in its presentation.
manage - mainly because they tend to Cables as open and honest as these ‘Bizarre Love Triangle’ was also more
strangle the sound instead of letting can be ruthlessly revealing of any vibrant. I could hear little notes that
it breath. flaws in the replay chain. I plugged in had previously escaped me - and was
Playing The Smiths’ ‘Queen Is one amplifier and immediately heard delighted at just how much more
Dead’ again with the interconnects its lack of dynamic range and rather music seemed to flow effortlessly
in I was struck by the extra level muddy sound. through the system.
of clarity. Here the vocals took on But with good sources and Now, I know there are some
a much more forceful presence loudspeakers they shine. Taking who doubt the influence of cables
- but the bass lines and drums had the McIntosh amplifier and Martin on a hi-fi set-up - but these new
more punch, stretching way into the Logans away and replacing them with Statements from Tellurium Q will
listening room. a Creek 100A integrated amplifier really let you know what a good
More importantly the addition of and a pair of Spendor’s small A1 wiring loom can do.
the interconnects seemed to widen standmount loudspeakers (see review
the soundstage of the loudspeakers this issue) revealed just how well CONCLUSION
to create a more immersive these cables can perform with a These new top of the range Tellurium
experience. variety of components. cables set a standard that redefine
Trying Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side The Spendors have a large sound just how good a cable loom can be.
Of The Moon’ (24/96) via these for their size but the Tellurium Q There is no obvious interference,
connections it was striking how cables brought out even more depth constriction or tonal limits to the
the sound effects from ‘Money’ and definition from them. sound. They just allow a rather
ricochet from one side of the room With Massive Attack’s ‘Unfinished special, free-flowing signal to go
to another. What’s more the leading Sympathy’ the Spendors attacked between the various components in
edge of notes took on a much more harder and with more depth and the hi-fi chain. As such they are highly
clean and clear timbre. Playing Jimi breadth than on other cables. Their recommended.
Hendrix’s ‘The Wind Cries Mary’ his ability to extract the most from
guitar work was a thing of beauty. the equipment was again on TELLURIUM Q LOUDSPEAKER, INTERCONNECT
It wasn’t just powerful but had a show. AND POWER CABLES PRICES
subtlety and grace I’d rarely heard Finally I plugged in the mains
before. lead to the Creek amplifier. ‘Speaker cable £2165 per 1.5 metre length
Again the impression was that I wasn’t expecting a huge XLR balanced interconnect £4740
these cables were not throttling the difference but the change was RCA interconnect £4320
system but allowing it to perform rather stark. ‘Way Down In Power cable £4740
naturally. The Hole’ became larger and














TELLURIUM Q
STATEMENT
CABLES


OUTSTANDING - amongst
the best

VERDICT
These set a new standard
that outperforms all other
cables we’ve heard. Highly
recommended.
FOR
- openness
- clarity
- lack of smear
AGAINST
- not cheap

Tellurium Q
+44 (0)1458 251997
www.telluriumq.com
Tellurium Q Statement XLR balanced interconnects
66 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

FEATURE







Festive Quiz










There are no prizes just satisfaction for getting the answers right!







1) Which member of rock 7) Who invented the 14) Gillian Gilbert is a key-
band Queen later became an theremin? board player in which group?
astrophysicist? Leon Theremin Kraftwerk
Sony New Order
Brian May
Nikolai Volta Daft Punk
Freddie Mercury
Roger Taylor 8) Baggy Trousers. What 15) In what year was the
group? 1812 Overture written?
2) The Beatles were originally Bay City Rollers 1812
known as? Simple Minds 1810
The Earwigs Madness 1880 You know your stuff but are not yet a musical Mastermind. Enter Mastermind immediately: Specialist subject – Music.
The Caterpillars Your musical knowledge is severely lacking - much work
9) One of Rod Stewart’s pas-
The Quarrymen 16) And who wrote it? A decent score but still not up to scratch.
sionate hobbies is? Tchaikovsky
Stamp collecting Beethoven
3) Who invented the phono- Model trains Bach RATE YOURSELF (CORRECT ANSWER = 1 POINT)
graph? Swimming needs to be done.
Mr Graph 17) Andre Rieu plays which
Thomas Edison 10) What religion were the instrument?
Osmonds?
Phono Labs Trombone 5-10 points: 10-15 points: 15-20 points:
Christian Organ 1-5 points:
Roman Catholic
4) Elton John has never had Mormons Violin
a number one single. True or
18) How many times did Elvis
False? 11) Nashville in America is fa-
True mous for what form of music? Presley play England?
Five
False Grunge
Rap Three
Don't know None
Country & Western
5) Harry Rodger Webb is bet- 12) What is Garrard famous 19) Gene Simmons is a mem-
ter known as who? for? ber of which band?
Shaking Stevens Turntables The Clash 1) Brian May 2) The Quarrymen 3) Thomas Edison 4) False
Cliff Richard Amplifiers The Gene Simmons Band 5) Cliff Richard 6) Dublin 7) Leon Theremin 8) Madness 9) Model trains 10) Mormons 11) Country and Western 12) Turntables 13) Scotland 14) New Order 15) 1880 16) Tchaikovsky 17) Violin 18) None 19) Kiss 20) Belgium
Bruce Springsteen Loudspeakers Kiss

13) In which country is Linn 20) Singer Jacques Brel
6) U2 hail from which city?
based? hailed from which country?
Dublin Germany France
Manchester Scotland Germany
Cork Belgium Belgium


www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 67

P52-P53.indd 52 13/6/16 15:09:22

P52-P53.indd 53 13/6/16 15:09:24

REVIEW



Luna Listening










PrimaLuna have released a new Evolution range of valve amplifiers. Noel Keywood checks
out the EVO 300 integrated.


istening to the new EVO modern electronic environment, sur- The first thing that struck us
300 valve amplifier from rounded by audiophile components. at Hi-Fi World was the EVO 300's
PrimaLuna, a light went on Well, that’s what I heard with weight, quoted by the company in
in my head. A classic EL34 our review sample, with EL34 power Imperial measure for the US market:
amplifier – I remembered output valves as standard, price 68.2lbs. That’s 31kg and it is a two-
Lthe sound. This is an output £3798. Also compatible are a long person lift unless you spend a lot
valve (tube) with a reputation – espe- list of power valves including KT88, of time in the gym, so any wall shelf
cially in the Far East – being known KT120 and even the KT150 valve. I or stand will need to be sturdy.
for its delicacy, transparency and gen- didn’t try other tubes, staying with Moving this amplifier was not a casual
eral sense of insight. What PrimaLuna what Dutch PrimaLuna are happy to decision; once in place it remains. All
have done here is extract the best fit and claim on their website as one the same, dimensionally the EVO 300
from the EL34 by placing it in a of the best power valves going. fits a conventional 19in equipment



























































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

REVIEW




rack (stand), measuring 15.2in
(38.6cm) wide so there’s some side
clearance. It is 8.1in (21cm) high and
15.9in (41cm) deep, again suitable for
a 19in deep rack.
As PrimaLuna point out there
is no digital inside, nor a phono
stage; this is a standard pattern valve
amplifier, but one with high quality
parts and remote control. The latter
is facilitated by use of sealed small-
signal relays with a long life to switch
inputs; you can see them in banks
against the rear input sockets. This
is the best method, one we used in
World Audio Design amplifiers long
ago, employing Panasonic inert gas
filled audio relays quoted at 3 million
operations; ordinary mechanical
switches decay with time.
Another point that struck a
chord was the use of a low-ish HT
(420V PrimaLuna say) to preserve
valve life. I remember our designer,
Andy Grove, refusing to use enough
HT to hit a 40 Watt target spec. A complex internal layout with hard wired white ceramic valve
because, he said, it would shorten bases, a central green circuit board and – at left – gold plated
valve life. Oh the frustration! What input sockets switched by relays. At top right is the Alps volume
happens is the valve runs hotter, control, motorised for remote control operation.
expands and contracts more, the
electrodes warp over time, touch Triode mode because it is gentler loudspeaker sockets accept bare
and there’s a bang! This catastrophic and better teases out the essence of wire connection, spade terminals or
short can destroy the output classic valve sound. I’m agnostic; both 4mm banana plugs. As is common, Solidly built remote
transformer primary and the cathode presentations have merit but I do end the output is purposed for an 8 Ohm control with input
circuits. Manufacturers should always up with Triode. The 24 Watt power load but there is a 4 Ohm tap as well. selection, volume
fit primary fuses to avoid this, but figure may look unacceptable but Inside, hard wiring and circuit and Ultra-linear/
many do not. A side issue is stripping with sensitive modern loudspeakers boards are used, plus high quality Triode switching.
the anode and cathode of emissivity, (floorstanders) it is enough to go Takman resistors in a mixture of old
whereupon the valve sounds dull neighbour-annoyingly loud. and new. The volume control is an
and lifeless. Power valves should be Remote control not only switches Alps Blue Velvet motorised type and
changed after 3000 hrs or so of use the input relays, but also activates DuRoch tinfoil capacitors are used.
in any case, which will be years for an Alps motorised volume control: An adaptive auto-bias system copes
most people. watch the volume control knob move with any valve type used and makes
So what PrimaLuna say about as if by ghostly intervention. It’s a manual bias unnecessary. If a valve
restricting power output of a valve is high quality solution popular with goes out of limits a red warning
very true. The quoted power of the valve amplifiers. indicator lights to identify it.
EVO 300 is 42 Watts in Ultralinear The front panel is a machined Our sample had a turntable
mode and 24 Watts in Triode mode, alloy billet that gives a sturdy front phono amplifier housing underneath
our sample meeting those figures user interface. At left is the volume but it is a future option.
under test. Replacement cost is just control and right a rotary input
£80 for quad matched pairs – small selector that actuates the relays. SOUND QUALITY
change as power tubes go – EL34s Also here is a 1/4in (6.3mm) stereo For listening the PrimaLuna EVO
are not expensive. KT88s and headphone socket. The power switch 300 was hooked up to our Martin
KT150s come in at more but still do is a small rocker style unit just behind Logan ESL-X hybrid electrostatic
not break the bank (unlike 300Bs). the fascia, on the left side panel, with loudspeakers through Chord
Triode mode? Yes, this now- a fuse next to it. On the right side Company Signature XL cables. CD
common option with valve amps is panel lie a loudspeaker/headphone was spun by our Oppo BDP-205D
available on the EVO 300's remote switch and a bias switch that made Universal player, feeding a Chord
control: press a button to hear the little difference measurement showed, Electronics M Scaler digital filter and
difference between Ultra-Linear and but I left it in high bias for the best Dave DAC. I also used a MacBook
Triode modes, the former lighting result. Pro running from battery, feeding in
a front panel LED red, the latter The rear panel carries five hi-res digital. Our sample lacked the
green. What does that say? Ultra- phono-socket Line inputs and phono stage board so we could not
linear gives more power but is subtly a Home Theatre bypass, but no assess performance with LP.
less liquid and relaxed sounding balanced XLR inputs. There is also a From outset – and using Triode
than triode mode, so it is flagged Tape output, but no source/monitor – I heard a lovely amplifier here. In
up red. PrimaLuna allot green to switch. Large, sturdy gold plated true EL34 tradition the EVO 300 has

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 71



REVIEW




a wonderful sense of liquid lucidity,
as I can only describe it. The EL34 is
a fast sounding valve with plentiful
treble of ornate nature – and this
quality the PrimaLuna delivered well.
It is far from warm or cosy sounding,
being quite specific up top. Both
qualities came together with Nils
Lofgren’s Keith Don’t Go where his
rapid finger work on close miked
resonating guitar strings soared
out in the room. I use this track
quite a lot to get a handle on high
frequency performance and the EVO
300 did an inarguably wonderful
job in capturing both the dynamic
vivacity of the recording – as well as The large, bluff looking top casework covers very heavy mains and output
the atmospheric nature of the live
venue. Yet additionally there was the transformers, making the EVO 300 a two-person lift. Below is the optional
beautifully liquid nature valves provide, phono stage.
giving Lofgren’s guitar both the speed
and timbral richness I hear from my Stereo 30SE single-ended amplifier with EL34 power output valves as
son’s acoustic guitar – and that I fail switched to Triode working in the standard. Delivering 40 Watts in
to pick up from transistor amplifiers. office. The EVO 300 was right up Ultra-Linear mode, it has strong bass
A riveting result that straight away there with them: it’s sound grabbed and a powerful sound, plus the superb
spoke loud: EL34s in full glory! me fast! lucidity valves are known for. It got a
The Henry Mancini orchestra big thumbs up from all in the office.
playing the Pink Panther theme CONCLUSION A great sounding amplifier, one that
occupied a voluminous sound stage PrimaLuna’s EVO 300 is a finely will keep you listening – well worth
in front of me with immersive sense developed valve amplifier that comes an audition.
of depth. Easy going yet subtly strong,
the plucked acoustic bass strode
along with casual authority. I was MEASURED PERFORMANCE
in Triode mode so switched to UL The PrimaLuna EVO 300 delivered 50 low distortion, adequate bandwidth and
(Ultralinear) and there was a little Watts into 8 Ohms (3% thd) in Ultra- enough power to go loud. NK
more dynamic contrast – but also less linear mode and 25 Watts in Triode
of the svelte sweetness that Triode mode. Output impedance measured Power (8 Ohms) 50 Watts
delivers – so I inevitably switched 3 Ohms, making damping factor 2.7 Frequency response (-1dB)
back. But I am a bit honed to Triode, – low by transistor amplifier standards 5Hz-52kHz
since I run World Audio Design 300B but acoustic and magnetic damping in Separation 68dB
amplifiers at home and an Icon Audio the loudspeaker also come into to play Noise (IEC A wtd) -96dB
to affect final outcome – as always. Distortion (10kHz, 1W, 4Ω) 0.2%
0.3V
Sensitivity
Frequency response in Ultra-linear Damping factor 2.7
mode exhibited a +3dB bass peak
at 6Hz but this reduced to +1dB in FREQUENCY RESPONSE
Triode mode, due to change in feedback
conditions. Over the perceivable audio PRIMALUNA
band down to 20Hz the amplifier EVO 300 £3798
measured flat, but whichever mode is
chosen the EVO 300 will appear to have OUTSTANDING - amongst
strong low bass, especially with LP. the best
Distortion in the midband
measured a low 0.1% at 1 Watt. VERDICT
At high (10kHz) and low (40Hz) Great valve sound from a
frequencies just 0.2% – low figures. DISTORTION classically configured 40 Watt
Close to full output (-1dB) distortion amplifier. Engaging.
rose to around 1%, typical for a FOR
valve amplifier; this is distortion on - build quality
musical peaks. The massive output - automatic biasing
transformers handle low frequencies - valve warning LEDs
well. AGAINST
Noise measured a low -96dB, hum - very heavy
being all but absent. - no XLR input
The EVO 300 measured as
At front sit six 12AU7 expected from a nominally 40 Watt, Absolute Sounds
preamplifier valves, well designed valve amplifier. It has +44 (0)20 89713909
small-signal double triodes. www.absolutesounds.com

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 73

01202 911 886 01592 744 779
bournemouth store glenrothes store


website: www.jordanacoustics.co.uk






































































Gold Note presents a line of unique, perfectly coherent and elegant products
that allow you to set up an entire quality stereo system with turntables,
electronics and loudspeakers. A philosophy that represents Italy, the most
beautiful country in the world.


0% FINANCE AVAILABLE*

*Finance is subject to status & conditions.




For further information please call 01202 911 886 or email [email protected]



JA-HFW January 2020 v1 new.indd 1 05/11/2019 13:32

NEW
Mcintosh MA352
Specifications ��������������������������


�����������������Valve Preamp & Solid State Power Amp, FINANCE EXAMPLE
200/320wpc (8/4 Ohms), 5-band tone control,
Initial 20% deposit of £1,699.00,
2 x Balanced Inputs, 3 x Unbalanced Inputs, 1 x MM Phono Input
then £226.53 per month
with adjustable loading.
for 30 months*
£8,495
�����������������������������������������������






























NEW
Iso�coustics Delos PRICING

turntable platform STARTS FROM
£399
�����������������������������������������

Combining the mass of a thick butcher block with
Available in both maple
IsoAcoustics patented isolation, DELOS provides a low noise and walnut finishes.
��������������������������������������������������������������





*0% Finance examples above are subject to status & conditions



JA-HFW January 2020 v1 new.indd 2 05/11/2019 13:32

LETTERS & EMAILS




LETTER OF THE MONTH PRIZE
Mail












Visit our website at www.hi-fiworld.co.uk
or send your emails to letters@hi-fiworld.
co.uk. Letter of the month wins a pair of
KEF Q150 bookshelf speaker

Answers by: NK - Noel Keywood; JM - Jon Myles; PR - Paul Rigby;
MP - Martin Pipe.


KEF Q150 BOOKSHELF SPEAKER

https://uk.kef.com/products/q150-bookshelf-speaker
[subject to availability - Satin Black / Satin White]


A PAIR KEF Q150 LOUDSPEAKERS are on their way to PATRICK WRIGHT,

Letter of the Month winner in our December 2019 issue.

Letter of the Month


SACD
I am currently using a Marantz
Pearl Lite amp and SACD player and
would appreciate your opinion on
a better SACD player. There is the
Yamaha CD-S2100 at around the
£1400 price mark which has had
excellent reviews. The problem is the
depth of this unit exceeds that of my
Hi-Fi Racks Podium Slimline rack. I
could have a shelf custom made I As SACD players fade away Yamaha’s CD-S2100 is one
guess. of the few left. But at 438mm deep it does not fit Cliff
I am not a fan of Arcam, having Millward's rack.
owned or used two of their amps,
a couple of tuners and a CD player Hi Cliff. The Yamaha CD-S2100 way, a second-hand Oppo BDP-
over the years. Maybe natural to measures 438mm deep and you may 105/205 player might be the answer.
some, lifeless to me (and they look have to consider coping with the But they are all big players so a rack
so fragile in a British sort of way!). overhang, perhaps by using a top mod. may be needed whatever you
My speakers are Elac FS 189. plate, say of marble, on your rack. choose. NK
I have many SACDs and a large The reason I say this is that Sony
collection of CDs so a reliable and players seem to have left the market RECORD STORES
hard working machine is essential. and Arcam’s CDS-50 was not so I wish to endorse your overall approach,
I also listen via Beyer headphones good with SACD I found, although it concentrating on reproduction of music
with a Musical Fidelity headphone was good otherwise. rather than view the acquisition of
amplifier – both very revealing. The This leaves you with few equipment as an end in itself.
Marantz is very good but maybe other options – and none we I would like to highlight the need to
something a bit more costly might have experience of, other than frequent local record stores, fairs and
improve on its performance? the impressive McIntosh MCD350 charity shops, as well as supporting
Many thanks for your help. reviewed in our May 18 issue. With local hi-fi dealers if you’re lucky enough
Best wishes, its Sony chip set this delivered to have them. There are a great number
Cliff Millward fantastic sound quality but at £6000 of vinyl albums that I would love to
Tipton it is more expensive than the Yamaha own and could obtain easily on the net.
West Midlands and most else. Or, going the other However, I choose not to as it takes
76 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

LETTERS & EMAILS






away the joy of finding the actual object
of desire sitting in a rack or box. It’s
almost like unearthing treasure.
Clicking on a link, entering credit
card details and then getting it delivered
over the ‘net strikes me as being totally
soulless. Can you examine the vinyl,
engage with people, barter, travel to
different parts of the country, chance
upon new stores you didn’t know
existed while stuck in front of a screen?
On the subject of bartering, I’ve
found most proprietors/vendors are
more than willing to listen to offers as
long as they’re reasonable. Remember The McIntosh MCD350 CD/SACD player. Expensive but with
that store owners have to make a wonderful sound quality.
living and you need them to stay open
to satiate your needs. Don’t barter Am I describing a single-ended but extra depth harks back to
in charity shops, it’s churlish in the amp? I don’t fully know, so maybe amplifiers of yore.
extreme. an article on the various types of Both David Shaw (Icon Audio
Another plus to our hobby is the amp, written by someone with a MD) and I feel low feedback
benefit to mental well being. I find that much greater command of English is the best compromise with
listening to music daily reduces stress than I (and, obviously, with a lot more valve amplifiers, giving them a
and anxiety. I like the ritual of playing knowledge on the subject as well) modern sound balance and also
LPs. There is effort involved which, in might help others (there must be some) tightening bass from many, if not all,
my opinion, makes the experience more who are a bit baffled by this aspect of loudspeakers, whilst retaining the
enjoyable, I won’t be streaming anytime amplifier design. sense of ease that such amplifiers
soon. Yours sincerely, have. NK
Thanks for a thoroughly informative John Malcolm
magazine that I’ve enjoyed since the SONY STRDN-1080 AV AMP
days of Giovanni Dadomo and LJK Hi John. Adding treble lift to sharpen For the last few years I have enjoyed
Setright. My favourite sections continue the sound when no feedback is a Pioneer AV amplifier which I selected
to be the opinion pages as they are applied (open loop) is – I guess – a as it contained a good ESS Sabre
genuinely thought provoking. possibility, but it would add compli- DAC. I found the sound quite clean
Regards, cation to the switching since this and powerful for films and TV and
Steve Williams network could only be chosen at reasonable with pure stereo music.
one switch position. My AV speakers are Quad 22L2
Hi Steve. Yes I guess we get to be The zero feedback option is for at the front, Quad 22L side surround,
vinyl collectors by default. I can’t purists – and lack of frequencies Quad 9L2 rear surround and Quad L
stop buying the things – even when above 12kHz is not such a big deal centre speaker. These were purchased
I already have them. Always hoping as to warrant the complexity and in pairs over several years from 2004
the new re-master will blow me extra cost. If you’re a purist you may on, but all in beautiful birds eye maple
away. Often, the digital file can sound well not mind as the slight warmth veneer (no longer available). I do not
‘better’ – but never as natural or
authentic as pure analogue. As you
say, it is a matter of “mental well
being“ – vinyl keeps you sane! NK
FEEDBACK ON FEEDBACK
Just a quick enquiry concerning the
No Feedback option on the Icon Audio
Stereo 40 MkIV amp you reviewed in
the Aug ‘19 issue.
Am I being dim, or just stupid,
when I see the solution to a duller-
sounding – erm – sound as simple:
design the audio circuitry with a
carefully calculated rising output as
the frequency rises, thus producing a
more level/flat output. It could restore
the edge you report as missing on
transients (guitar strings, blocks of
wood). But as to other detrimental Icon Audio Stereo 40 MkIV valve amplifier. “Design the audio
characteristics of a no feedback design, circuitry with a carefully calculated rising output as the frequen-
again surely modern circuit design can cy rises” to fix its warm, no-feedback sound, suggests John
sort these out? Malcolm.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 77

LETTERS & EMAILS




any doubts, ask Elite whether they
can measure the voltage across the
cathode resistors of each output
valve: they should be similar, matched
within 10%. I suggest you pay for
this service: it is dangerous and only
for those aware of the safety issues.
If Elite would rather not do this
then Dave Tutt can help – see the
next letter for details. He works in
Sony STRDN-1080 AV amp. Its sound is "spacious, powerful and Chatham, Kent, so you might have to
effortless, but also smooth and detailed" says Mike Tartaglia get into the car.
Kershaw. The lower damping available
from a valve amplifier will give
use a sub-woofer and selected the Quad At 29kg, I really do not want to slightly more obvious bass. As you
22L because it has powerful bass for its have to post this amp off each time the say, increasing negative feedback will
size (and that lovely veneer). valves need to be changed. Is this really raise the electrical damping but not
Recently I bought a 4K TV and necessary if I purchase a matched quad by much on valve amplifiers. It does
so I needed a new 4K compatible AV set? sound like you need some acoustical
amplifier. I decided on a Sony STRDN- Also, as you note in your review, I damping for the loudspeakers – and
1080 AV amp which had received good did not notice a great deal of difference a pair of socks stuffed in the port is
reviews over a number of years and between the max and min NF Adj a classic solution! Slightly better is
seemed good value at £429 at Richer settings. I presume one setting gives an open-pore acoustic foam of course,
Sounds. It was a good decision! I have improved damping factor when using my or you can even try another trick
never heard the Quad 22Ls sound so very efficient Heco Direkt Einklangs? from the 1970s, a clutch of drinking
good with stereo music. No, the sound is At the moment the bass is tending straws. NK
not as solid, pure and three dimensional to be over emphasised on either setting
as the PrimaLuna Premium HP amp and I feel I am going to have to try TUNER SERVICING
and Monitor Audio Gold speakers in my some port blocking to tame things down. A main part of my listening is to Radio
main stereo system but boy does the My first venture into valve 3 via a Technics ST-3150AM/FM tuner.
Sony/Quad come close. The stereo sound ownership; hope you don’t mind me Although a budget model it has given,
is spacious, powerful and effortless, but tapping into your wealth of experience. and continues to give, reliable service
also smooth and detailed, and fills my Any other tips would be greatly and great musical pleasure.
16 ft living room. appreciated. I am aware, however, that it is now
The Sony amp has brought out the Kind regards, some 45 years old and that electronic
deep bass of the Quad 22s for the first Trevor Rea components degrade with age. I have,
time since 2004. I really believe this therefore, been wondering about having
amp is ‘audiophile on a budget’ and well Hi Trevor. A matched valve set in it serviced but am having difficulty
worth a review. It has been out for many an auto-bias amplifier like the Ekco finding an individual or company that
years and may be replaced soon but I (review October 2014 edition) does has the equipment/expertise to service
think it might become a bit of a second- not need checking: that is the whole FM tuners. I am also wondering whether
hand classic, like the Marantz SR8002 point of getting ‘matched quads’ as I should just put the thought aside on
I let go many years ago. If anyone is they are called. And very good of the basis of if it ain’t broke ....
in the market for a good value good Elite Audio to fit a new set of KT88s, Given that the tuner is still
sounding AV amp get a Sony STRDN- since this is expensive. If you have performing well would you recommend
1080 while you can.
Best wishes,
Mike Tartaglia Kershaw
EKCO ECHO
I hope you don’t mind me asking a
question regarding a rather old review
you carried out some time ago!
I recently purchased a second
hand Ekco EV55SE valve amp which,
unfortunately upon delivery I discovered,
had one of the KT88 valves broken. Elite
Audio were fantastic and took back the
amp, checked it out and replaced all the
output valves with a new set of Electro
Harmonix KT88s. Bravo them!
The question I have is that the
instruction booklet states that if valves
are replaced the amp should be
returned to the manufacturer, whereas The Ekco EV55SE valve amplifier, weight 29kg. “I really do not
your review states that the design is want to have to post this amp off each time the valves need to be
auto biasing. changed. Is this really necessary?” asks Trevor Rea.
78 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

LETTERS & EMAILS























“My Hitachi FT-5500 FM tuner, with a loft aerial pointed at Sutton Coldfield, works well” says Ray
Spink. “I used the signal strength meter to confirm that Sutton Coldfield was still the best transmit-
ter for home use” in Nottingham.

still going down the servicing route or then in the north of Nottinghamshire, my Sony portable (by ear) to confirm
leave well alone. If the former, do you reception was patchy, Radio 4 always that Sutton Coldfield was still the best
know of anyone who carries out the the worst. Does the compression which transmitter for home use.
type of work I require? I believe Radio 2, Classic FM and most Sutton Coldfield (SC) and
Regards, commercial stations use, help their Peterborough (P) are the nearest
Hugh Marks reception? I now live in the south in transmitters but Nottingham is on the
Nottingham and I cannot get R4 in edge of four transmitters that could
Hi Hugh. One of the advantages of Netherfield – yup Field Bottom! It is be received: Belmont (B) and Holme
old equipment is there's a proper not in a valley but on the end of an Moss (HM) are the other two. I parked
on/off switch – which means that escarpment. on the top of a nearby hill and I could
rather than sitting on your shelf I used https://www.bbc.co.uk/ receive R2 on all four transmitters.
consuming electricity and wearing receptionsearch and a copy of the Radio Radio 1 and 3 was picked-up from SC,
out components from the moment Listeners Guide to find which transmitter HM & B. Radio 4 from SC, HM & P.
you plugged it in, your Technics has would give the strongest signal. The Why Peterborough for Radio 4 and not
only suffered internal wear when website gives frequencies, direction, and Belmont? Stick that in your pipe BBC
you had it switched on. So rather a prediction of the reception quality of and smoke it!
than having 45 years of wear, it is the transmitters e.g. Good. My car, in which I suffer poor R4
probably less than 5 years all told. It I was looking to get good reception reception, is a Rover 75 (Great British
could probably do with some new on BBC Radios 1,2,3 and 4 on my Engineering, as are my Naim amps,
electrolytic capacitors as 45 years of Hitachi FT-5500 FM tuner, with a loft Epos ES14s and Garrard deck-fully
life will tend to dry them out. aerial pointed at Sutton Coldfield. No fettled by the Great Britisher: Dr. Martin
Other than that there is probably hills or buildings in the way so all works Bastin). I assume the rear de-mister
nothing else that could be changed to well. I recently used both the signal acts as the aerial on the Rover, not
give it any kind of service. The issue strength meter on the Hitachi and the Garrard! I have checked the aerial
will most probably be – will it make
any difference to the way it sounds?
I have to say it might be subtle but if
you want to do it I am quite happy
to replace capacitors for you. It’s not
expensive to do as the components
are less than £10 and requires a
couple of hours work at most. By
all means drop me a message and
perhaps we can arrange something.
Regards
Dave Tutt
+44 (0)7759 105932
[email protected]
www.tutt-technology.co.uk

RADIO 4
Thanks for passing on my letter to
the BBC about difficulties with Radio
4 reception. The answer was, indeed,
comprehensive. Thanks also, to Mike,
for his website suggestion which shows
current faults – but my problem goes "My Garrard deck is fully fettled by the Great Britisher Dr. Martin
back years. Bastin" says Ray Spink. Our picture is Noel Keywood's Garrard
Even when I lived in the middle and 401, also fettled by Dr Martin Bastin.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 79

LETTERS & EMAILS




lead is attached. My previous 75 had too is for Dave Peacock to have more you can remove them.
a Sony tuner but my present 75 has success than Chas Hodges going Regards,
a horrendous JVC tuner – silver in a forward, given that the latter sadly Mike Bickley
mock Tudor Walnut dash! I had similar passed away in September 2018. Do
reception problems with my Daewoo you want to tell Jon or shall I? Thanks for that Mike. Yes, indeed
Lanos which had a retractable external Many thanks, – ferrite rings and beads absorb
aerial – posh! Yours in Sound, high frequency energy, thereby
Ray Spink Ian Davies reducing noise. RS Components stock
Nottingham 388 different types, for example,
Mea Culpa. Apologies to you all. If companies like TDK making them for
Hi Ray. Your Naim amps and Garrard Chas Hodges is reading the column mains cable use.
401 fettled by Dr Martin Bastin are from way above he may have a wry Russ Andrews clamps (£8 for
lovely products in good, solid and smile on his face at my stupidity. two) are especially neat and he makes
honest British tradition – and Martin JM some very good points about their
Bastin helped re-launch the 401 use, including being clamped to the
by his efforts. I am wedded to my LED BULBS output of wall-warts (switched mode
Garrard 401 on Martin Bastin plinth, As a supplement to Richard Barton’s power supplies) whose cable carries a
with its equally gorgeous SME3012S experience with LED bulbs and RF. lot of high frequency rubbish.
arm. Naim’s NDX 2 made its own Russ Andrews has started to sell RF I presume LED bulbs also carry
case for UK quality, in construction, clamps https://www.russandrews.com/ internal switch mode supplies, to
finish and sound quality. Good rf-clamp-pack-of-2-small. change a.c. to d.c. for the LED,
engineering, worth appreciating. When these first appeared they also radiating rubbish, so as you
With Radio 4 in the car, it seems were clipped to interconnect cables say: "clip them on to the mains cable
that you need to look at having a and the like. In fact, Hi-Fi World that feeds the light fitting". It makes
better aerial installed, rather than carried a review of a pair of TDK good technical sense, reducing RF
relying on the rear de-mister, if that ones some years ago. Russ’s take on radiation from the cable. The EU
is the aerial. I’m sure the ‘net can the subject is to clip them on to the mandates against RF radiation from
help here with car aerial installers. mains cable which feeds the light electronic equipment but endorses
NK fitting. He perceives that fitting them LED bulbs for their power saving,
to signal carrying cables degrades the ignoring the rubbish they produce
CHAS & DAVE 1 sound. – contradictory. A good solution
Slightly confused about Jon Myles’s I think that you need to fit them would be for household lighting
words regarding Chas & Dave in the on all the LED light bulb mains cables circuits to carry d.c. to LEDs direct, I
December 2019 issue... before any perceived difference is believe, eliminating RF radiation from
It appears that Mr Myles is not noticed, and then it’s probably very household wiring, in line with EU
aware that Chas Hodges sadly died subtle, but they are fairly cheap and requirements. NK
over a year ago. I’m not a huge Chas
& Dave fan or anything but I do know
Chas is brown bread.
Adam Tate
Hertford
Hertfordshire
CHAS & DAVE 2
Jon Myles has really excelled himself
this month: “And then, of course, there’s
Chas And Dave. I’d wager it will be
Chas – so the chances are we’re going
to see Dave become the big interna-
tional star. Good luck to him too in that
venture and I hope Chas takes it well”.
I think there’s every chance Russ Andrews mains filter clamps, just £8 a pair. Clamp them
Dave’s career will be bigger, since Chas over mains cables to reduce RF interference.
Hodges died in 2018.
Steve Fenton
Cambridge

CHAS & DAVE 3
Take the old boy out, buy him a pint
and give him a stiff talking to. Tell him
that Chas is dead.
Best wishes,
Nick Powell
CHAS & DAVE 4
I was enjoying Jon Myles opinion article Wall-wart power supplies produce RF noise. Russ Andrews
up until the last paragraph. My money clamps suppress it.
80 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

COMPETITION








WIN






AN AUDIO TECHNICA

OC9X SH CARTRIDGE

IN THIS MONTH’S

GREAT GIVEAWAY
WORTH £570!
www.eu.audio-technica.com










ast month we offered an better but is less resistant to dust using a mechanical grinding process.
Audio Technica OC-9X and fluff on the LP surface. Inevitably, this made a Shibata stylus
ML (Microline) moving coil Then come the trio I am more expensive and when CD-4
cartridge as a prize; this reviewing here, comprising the faded away with the arrival of CD it
month we have an OC9X OC9X ML (£480) with MicroLinear went too, only to be revived recently
LSH (Shibata), reviewed in stylus on a boron rod cantilever that, as demand for premium LP replay
the October 2019 issue. Read the it appears, replaces the outgoing emerged. QUESTIONS
review excerpt below and answer OC9 III. It has a red body. Tip shape affects mainly high
the questions. Above the ML comes the OC9X treble insight and focus, and the [1] Who developed
SH (£570) with Shibata profile amount of detail retrieved. It doesn’t the SH stylus?
"In the new OC9X series you can stylus and brown body. This profile affect bass quality, nor a cartridge’s [a] Steven Harris
get an OC9X EB with bonded (on a was developed long ago (1970s) by ‘colour’ that comes from cantilever [b] Sydney Hargreaves
[c] Norio Shibata
rondel) elliptical stylus and aluminium Norio Shibata for CD-4, a system material and shape, or clarity that is [d] Stefan Headache
cantilever for just £280 – they providing surround-sound from LP. affected by the generator".
start cheap. Above it lies the EN The stylus had to read a sub-carrier [2] What colour is
the OC9X SH body?
(£300) with nude elliptical stylus on at 30kHz with sidebands to 45kHz For a chance to win this great prize, [a] brown
aluminium cantilever that, because it – quite a feat. It required multiple just answer the four easy questions [b] blue
[c] beige
lacks a rondel, tracks high frequencies grinds to achieve the right shape, at right. Send your entries on a [d] green
postcard only, by 10th January 2020
RULES AND CONDITIONS OF ENTRY to: [3] When was the
Shibata developed?
[a] 1990s
- ONLY ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD [b] 1890s
[c] 1950s
- MULTIPLE ENTRIES WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFIED January 2020 Competition, [d] 1970s
Hi-Fi World magazine,
- PURCHASE OF THE MAGAZINE IS NOT A PRE-CONDITION OF ENTRY
Studio 204, [4] For what sur-
- NO CORRESPONDENCE WILL BE ENTERED INTO Buspace Studio, round-sound system?
[a] CD-4
- THE EDITOR'S DECISION IS FINAL Conlan Street, [b] CBS SQ
Notting Hill, [c] Sansui QS
- NO EMPLOYEES OF AUDIO WEB PUBLISHING LIMITED, OR OF ANY [d] Dolby
COMPANIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTION London W10 5AP
OF THE PRIZES, MAY ENTER
ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED ON A POSTCARD ONLY
PLEASE ENSURE YOU PUT A TELEPHONE CONTACT NUMBER ON YOUR ENTRY



OCTOBER 2019 WINNER: CAMBRIDGE AUDIO AX C35 CD PLAYER & AX A35 AMPLIFIER
Mr. J Cragg of Isle of Mull



www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 81

REVIEW



T For Me










Jon Myles listens to PSB’s new T20 Tower and comes away impressed.


ard to believe but PSB
first introduced its first
Alpha loudspeaker range
way back in 1991. They
became a massive suc-
Hcess for the company
and have become something of a
benchmark for affordable ‘speakers
with good sound quality.
They’re also a best-seller for
the Ontario, Canada-based company.
But that as it may be, 18 years is still
something of a long time for any
product series to go without any
major revisions to the overall design.
But now that wait is over with the
launch of a redesigned Alpha series
that brings a major redesign of the
original.
There are four models in the
range – two standmounts, a centre
channel and the T20 Tower on review
here.
It’s a floorstander measuring
170mm x 825mm x 243mm
(WxHxD). And at a weight of
11.9kg each they’re not too heavy
to manoeuvre into an ideal listening
position.
Take off the magnet-secured
grille at front – that PSB says makes
no difference to sonic performance
– and you’ll find three drivers. At top
is the tweeter, a proprietary 0.75in
(19mm) black anodized aluminium
dome the company says extends
high-frequency response further
than any Alpha ever before, while
lowering distortion – and housed in a
waveguide to aid performance.
Below are two 5.25in (133mm)
textured polypropylene mid/bass
drivers with rubber surrounds
augmented by a rear-firing reflex port.
Also on the rear panel are dual five-
way gold-plated binding post ‘speaker
terminals for bi-wiring, plus links for












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

REVIEW




samples. It’s an eclectic mix of PSB T20s make a great
various genres which some other case for themselves.
loudspeakers at this price could As proof I gave
turn into a bit of a mish-mash. But a run-through of
with the PSBs all was woven into a Mahler’s ‘No 4’ and
coherent whole – everything clear was impressed by the
and easy to listen to. scale conveyed. The
The only thing to beware of is soundstage was wide
that these are not loudspeakers to - images thrown well
give you room-shaking sound. On Led beyond the edges of
Zeppelin’s ‘When The Levee Breaks’ the cabinets - while
the sheer bone-shaking power of individual instruments
John Bonham’s drumming lacked the were clearly
The proprietary 0.75” (19mm) impact a true rocker would desire. delineated. Overall, this
black anodized aluminium dome Also, turning volume up there performance was a joy
tweeter sits in a shallow wave was evidence of vibration from the to hear, showing how
guide and has a phase plate in cabinets – nothing too alarming but talented the PSBs can
front to smooth response. there nonetheless. be. Use them within
That said, these are not their limits and you’ll
mono-wiring. loudspeakers designed for massive find them a delight.
The cabinet has been upgraded power in large rooms. They’re built
using a special MDF material and for small to medium spaces where CONCLUSION
a unique combination of wall sound quality at a sensible price – Excellent floorstanders
thickness and bracing, to help control with a design that fits into a domestic at £600 can often seem
resonances. Out-rigger feet are environment – is required. an exercise in cost-
included to ensure stability. And that’s what they achieve cutting. Not these PSB
Aesthetically the T20 Tower very, very well indeed. Take them for T20s. They combine
is an elegant package – especially what they are and they cannot help good looks with
considering its moderate £599 price but impress. excellent sonics. Use
tag – less than some standmounts Well designed, evenly balanced them in the right room
nowadays. with a bass that belies their size but at sensible volumes
never over-imposes itself. Add in a and I guarantee you’ll be
SOUND QUALITY refined high-end and for £699 the impressed. I was. The rear panel
The T20s may look relatively carries bi-wiring
compact but don’t be fooled by looks ‘speaker binding
alone. The sound they produce is big MEASURED PERFORMANCE posts. Above sits a
and full-bodied with a good, solid Frequency response of the PSB Alpha shown consistently. There’s some slight reflex port that adds
soundstage. series T20 loudspeaker was acceptably treble lift of +2dB to ensure highs are low-end extension.
Connecting to a Creek Evolution flat to current standards from 60Hz to obvious, but not so much as to make the
100A integrated amplifier and 16kHz our third-octave analysis of pink sound sharp or bright.
queuing up Massive Attack’s ‘Safe noise shows, at 20 degrees off-axis. On- Strong output above 2kHz and a
From Harm’ the vibrant, pumping axis, treble lifted by +3dB so the T20 lack of classic crossover dip around
bass that opens the track had a is best pointed straight down a room 3kHz will give the T20 a strong sense of
fulsome quality but retained its and not toed-in to point at listeners. The detail retrieval: this will be a forthright
rhythmic pace. There was no thump tweeter’s shallow flared horn has good sounding loudspeaker.
or undue emphasis on offer – just off-axis dispersion and gave the result There is a steady rise in output PSB T20 TOWER
the sense of a controlled low-end. below 300Hz to add warmth and body £599
PSB claim their twin woofers FREQUENCY RESPONSE to the sound, but bass cuts off below £
will go down to a low 30Hz – and Green - driver output 40Hz. The small rear port reaches 30Hz
hearing this track it was easy to Red - port output and applies broad acoustic damping but OUTSTANDING - amongst
believe (but see our Measured +20 will not provide much acoustic power the best.
Performance for definitive details). +10 low down, so subsonics will not be
Shara Nelson’s vocals were sweet dB obvious. VALUE - keenly priced.
and projected well into the room. 0 Sensitivity measured 86.5dB VERDICT
PSB's tweeter does indeed have -10 from one nominal Watt of input (2.8V) Sounds clear and nicely
extended response, sounding smooth -20 which is about as expected from a balanced. Excellent value.
and refined. It integrated well with small floor stander lacking deep bass
the two main drivers, with no sense -30 20 100 Hz 1k 20k (that influences measured sensitivity). FOR
of discontinuity between them. IMPEDANCE Impedance measured 5.7 Ohms, using - design
- controlled bass
Most impressively the PSBs were 50 broadband pink noise; amplifiers of 60 - good treble
capable of unravelling the music Ohms Watts or so will suit. - price
so I could hear essential elements. 30 PSB’s Alpha T20 measured well in
Gang Starr’s latest ‘One Of The all respects. It will be on the forward, AGAINST
Best Yet’ release (24bit/96kHz) is revealing, bright side like so many others, - needs right room
- won’t go overly loud
a complicated collection featuring 10 not soft and easy going, but bass looks
old-school booming beats, old vinyl 0 well controlled and in good balance. NK PSB Loudspeakers
samples plus manipulated orchestral 10 Hz 1k 20k www.psbspeakers.com

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 83

��������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ����� �������
JUST
�������������������������� ���������������������������� ��������������� LAUNCHED
www.hardtofindhifi.com ��������������������������������������������������������� �����������������������
Preamp all-in-one
• Convert to WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC/MP4 simultaneously
Supplying Audio Since 1991 • Enter track meta-data during recording, including album artwork • Reference headphone
& phono stage
Free updates • Record a full side of an album unattended with auto track split • Includes remote control • Also available in silver
for life ��������������� ���������
• Free training Dozens Of ������ 24 Months
Features £25 /v.2.4 Warranty
���������������������������� ������������������ ����������������������������
������������������������������� ������������������������������� �����
������������������ �������������������������� �������������������������
• Coreless direct drive • The legendary turntable reborn In our opinion, the best
����������������������� • Coreless direct drive digital-to-analogue
• Probably the best DD • Free Ortofon 2M blue cartridge converters on the market
turntables in the world 24 Months Warranty 24 Months Warranty
24 Months
�������� ������ Warranty �������� ��������� ���������� ���������������� ������������� �������������
������� ������ ������ ������ ������ ������ ������ ������
�����������������
���������������������� SAVE Only 1 available in the UK ���������������� ������������� ������� ������������� ������� �������������������� �������
�������������������������
������������ ��% ������������������������ �������� �������425�����
����������������� �����������������
• 7 analogue & 5 digital inputs ������������� ���������������� ���������������������������� �������������������� • 9” tonearm derived
• Decode & play back high �����������2152 ������������ • Ortofon’s ‘exclusive series’ comes with free ����������������
������������������������ MC Windfeld Ti cartridge Ortrofon Cadenza cartridge • Available in acrylic, black,
SAVE
• Limited stock at this price 24 Months Warranty OVER
• Internal crystal cables ��% white, walnut or black leather
£����� ������ 36 Months ������� 24 Months ������������ ������������������ £1,445 24 Months
Warranty
������
������
Warranty
Warranty
�������
���������������������������� ������������������������ ������� ������������������� ������� ������������������� �������
���������������
• Commemorative system marked • (5) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7 ������������ ������ ������
������������������������������������� with matching serial numbers vacuum tubes
����������������������� • 150 watts x 2 channels • MM & MC phono inputs
����������������������������������������� • (8) KT88, (4) 12AX7A and (4) • All analog design and a retro look
• Just add speakers 12AT7 vacuum tubes ����������������������������������
������ 36 Months ������� 36 Months Includes McIntosh History Book that
���������������������������������������
Warranty
Warranty
������� �������
�������������������������� ��������������������������
�����������252 �����������352
• 160 watts per channel • 200 watts per channel
• Hybrid design: vacuum tube • Retro all analogue design • Classic 70s look • 2-way hornsystem speakers • 2-way hornsystem speakers
preamp and solid state ��������������������� • Frequency response 40Hz – 40kHz • 18 Ohm high-impedance voice coil design, �������������������������������������
power amp ������������������������� ™ • Vintage Quadrex foam grille ������������������ • Various colour combinations available
��������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� • Why not book an in-store demo today?
������ 36 Months ������ 36 Months LAUNCHED ������ ����� 36 Months ������� ����� 36 Months ������� ����� 36 Months
JUST
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
������������������ �������
����������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������� ������������������ ��������������������������� ESTABLISHED 1991
����������
������������ ��������������� �������������� ����������� ������������ �����������
������
�����
������������
• DA2 digital audio module • 300 watts per channel ���������������
JUST
���������������������������� • 8-band tone control • Moving coil LAUNCHED ��������
• 8 band analog equalizer • DA1 digital audio module 24 Months �����
• 9 analogue & 7 digital inputs • MA7200 also available Warranty �����������������
������ 36 Months LAUNCHED ������� 36 Months ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� • 2 separate inputs �����������������
JUST
Warranty
Warranty
���� ���� ���� ���� ����
�����������
• 6 EQ curves • Worldwide voltage �������������������
������� ������������������ • Optional external
������������������������������ ������������������������������ ������������������������� ������� • 4 GAIN options power supply for £ 119 .95 LP2708
�����������611 �������������� ���������� • For use with MM & MC Gold Note PH-10
cartridges
Available
• 600 watt quad balanced • 200 Watt per channel in-store only �������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������
• Eco-friendly power management • 94% increase in dynamic headroom • Moving coil
���������������������� • Quiet fanless design ������ 24 Months ������ 24 Months ����
• 55% increase in dynamic headroom • Can be used in 5.1 home theaters Warranty Warranty ������������������������������������
compared to previous model
36 Months 36 Months JUST
������� ����� Warranty ������� Warranty LAUNCHED No. 1 Spencer Street The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham B18 6DD United Kingdom
������� ������� �������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������
������������ ��������
���������� ������ �������� ������ • Automatically lifts tonearm before
runout extending the life of your stylus
• Works on any turntable ��������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������������������������
��������� ������ ���������12 ������ ������� 24 Months ���������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� �������������������������������
Warranty
All orders are subject to availability & our Terms & Conditions which are available upon request. All photos are for illustrative purposes only. E&OE �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
DPS - October 2019.indd 1 08/10/2019 10:32:28 DPS - October 2019.indd 2 08/10/2019 10:32:34

��������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� ����� �������
�������������������������� ���������������������������� ��������������� LAUNCHED
JUST
www.hardtofindhifi.com ��������������������������������������������������������� �����������������������
Preamp all-in-one
• Convert to WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC/MP4 simultaneously
Supplying Audio Since 1991 • Enter track meta-data during recording, including album artwork • Reference headphone
& phono stage
Free updates • Record a full side of an album unattended with auto track split • Includes remote control • Also available in silver
for life ��������������� ���������
• Free training Dozens Of ������ 24 Months
Features £25 /v.2.4 Warranty
���������������������������� ������������������ ����������������������������
������������������������������� ������������������������������� �����
������������������ �������������������������� �������������������������
• Coreless direct drive • The legendary turntable reborn In our opinion, the best
����������������������� • Coreless direct drive digital-to-analogue
• Probably the best DD • Free Ortofon 2M blue cartridge converters on the market
turntables in the world 24 Months Warranty 24 Months Warranty
24 Months
�������� ������ Warranty �������� ��������� ���������� ���������������� ������������� �������������
������� ������ ������ ������ ������ ������ ������ ������
�����������������
���������������������� SAVE Only 1 available in the UK ���������������� ������������� ������� ������������� ������� �������������������� �������
�������������������������
������������ ��% ������������������������ �������� �������425�����
����������������� �����������������
• 7 analogue & 5 digital inputs ������������� ���������������� ���������������������������� �������������������� • 9” tonearm derived
• Decode & play back high �����������2152 ������������ • Ortofon’s ‘exclusive series’ comes with free ����������������
������������������������ MC Windfeld Ti cartridge Ortrofon Cadenza cartridge • Available in acrylic, black,
• Limited stock at this price 24 Months Warranty SAVE
OVER
• Internal crystal cables ��% white, walnut or black leather
£����� ������ 36 Months ������� 24 Months ������������ ������������������ £1,445 24 Months
Warranty
������
������
Warranty
Warranty
�������
���������������������������� ������������������������ ������� ������������������� ������� ������������������� �������
���������������
• Commemorative system marked • (5) 12AX7A and (1) 12AT7 ������������ ������ ������
������������������������������������� with matching serial numbers vacuum tubes
����������������������� • 150 watts x 2 channels • MM & MC phono inputs
����������������������������������������� • (8) KT88, (4) 12AX7A and (4) • All analog design and a retro look
• Just add speakers 12AT7 vacuum tubes ����������������������������������
������ 36 Months ������� 36 Months Includes McIntosh History Book that
���������������������������������������
Warranty
Warranty
������� �������
�������������������������� ��������������������������
�����������252 �����������352
• 160 watts per channel • 200 watts per channel
• Hybrid design: vacuum tube • Retro all analogue design • Classic 70s look • 2-way hornsystem speakers • 2-way hornsystem speakers
preamp and solid state ��������������������� • Frequency response 40Hz – 40kHz • 18 Ohm high-impedance voice coil design, �������������������������������������
power amp ������������������������� ™ • Vintage Quadrex foam grille ������������������ • Various colour combinations available
��������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� • Why not book an in-store demo today?
������ 36 Months ������ 36 Months LAUNCHED ������ ����� 36 Months ������� ����� 36 Months ������� ����� 36 Months
JUST
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty
������������������ �������
����������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������� ������������������ ��������������������������� ESTABLISHED 1991
����������
������������ ��������������� �������������� ����������� ������������ �����������
�����
������
������������
• DA2 digital audio module • 300 watts per channel ���������������
JUST
���������������������������� • 8-band tone control • Moving coil LAUNCHED ��������
• 8 band analog equalizer • DA1 digital audio module 24 Months �����
• 9 analogue & 7 digital inputs • MA7200 also available Warranty �����������������
������ 36 Months LAUNCHED ������� 36 Months ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� • 2 separate inputs �����������������
JUST
Warranty
Warranty
���� ���� ���� ���� ����
�����������
• 6 EQ curves • Worldwide voltage �������������������
������� ������������������ • Optional external
������������������������������ ������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������� ������� • 4 GAIN options power supply for £ 119 .95 LP2708
�
�����������611 �������������� ���������� • For use with MM & MC Gold Note PH-10
cartridges
Available
• 600 watt quad balanced • 200 Watt per channel in-store only �������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������
• Eco-friendly power management • 94% increase in dynamic headroom • Moving coil
���������������������� • Quiet fanless design ������ 24 Months ������ 24 Months ����
• 55% increase in dynamic headroom • Can be used in 5.1 home theaters Warranty Warranty ������������������������������������
compared to previous model
36 Months 36 Months JUST
������� ����� Warranty ������� Warranty LAUNCHED No. 1 Spencer Street The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham B18 6DD United Kingdom
������� ������� �������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������
������������ ��������
���������� ������ �������� ������ • Automatically lifts tonearm before
runout extending the life of your stylus
• Works on any turntable ��������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������������������������
��������� ������ ���������12 ������ ������� 24 Months ���������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� �������������������������������
Warranty
All orders are subject to availability & our Terms & Conditions which are available upon request. All photos are for illustrative purposes only. E&OE �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
DPS - October 2019.indd 1 08/10/2019 10:32:28 DPS - October 2019.indd 2 08/10/2019 10:32:34

AUDIOPHILE VINYL




o call this band a you possibly might think listening
fusion group or a to the title track. The rest of the
jazz-rock combo group take a full and essential part
T would be to over in the proceedings. ‘One Word’
simplify the talent. It was lead – is a superb group track which
and indeed founded – by supreme illustrates the magic of the band
guitarist, John McLaughlin. as a combined unit. Each member
He fronted a group with Jerry pushing the music up to and
Goodman on violin, keyboardist beyond creative boundaries.
Jan Hammer, Rick Laird on electric And then you get the contrasts
bass and drummer Billy Cobham. highlighted by ‘Open County Joy’
This line-up would completely which starts out like something
change in 1974 – but their classic the Grateful Dead might conjure
first outing is what we find on up but transforms itself into
this 1973 release, originally from something that Frank Zappa would
Columbia. The arguments within be proud to own.
the band meant it would be their As for mastering? Rather
last studio creation. lovely – with an overall neutral
Nevertheless, the Mahavishnu
MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA Orchestra were as tight as a drum presentation that is both balanced
and tonally accurate. The title
in terms of their inner cohesion. track is frantic and extreme in its
They sound like a multi-limbed, rocking chops but the mastering
one-man band. And an angry one retains the ability to separate each
at that, if the sometimes aggressive instrument, retaining the extraction
rock guitar of McLaughlin is of detail, preventing blurring and
Birds of Fire anything to go by. keeping frequency discipline intact.
But let’s not infer that the
Speakers Corner MO was a McLaughlin vehicle, as An excellent master for a brilliant
LP.
AUDIOPHILE VINYL














riginally released in there was the poetry-infused title
1969, many Doors fans track.
look upon this album This luxury edition arrives as
Oas one of the band’s a piece of vinyl and 3CDs. A ‘50th
lesser efforts. Lesser in terms of Anniversary Deluxe Edition’, it
Jim Morrison’s tenure, that is. For includes the original studio album
some, the issue is the introduction – and the B-side ‘Who Scared
of strings and that brass section. You’ – newly remastered by Bruce
Others might point the finger Botnick, The Doors’ longtime
at the quality of the basic songs. engineer and mixer. There’s a host
Certain fans might even focus of rarities included too, such as a
directly on Jim Morrison himself dozen unreleased songs. Among
and his performance. the highlights are stripped down
From here, Morrison was on a ‘Doors Only’ versions of five
downward spiral. In the year of this tracks where the horns and strings
release he would be convicted of have been removed. The set also
showing his genitals on stage, would features three of those stripped-
hit the bottle and the drugs and back versions with new guitar parts
would be later heard to mumble added by Robby Krieger.
THE DOORS to his then-Producer through his In mastering terms, I’d say that
booze: “Brian, Janis, Jimi – you’re a touch of compression has been
drinkin’ with number four”. added to enhance the upper mids
That said, there were elements and treble. In broad terms, the
to extract from this release such as soundstage is clear and open with
‘Touch Me’ (where the strings et al analogue organ sounds offering
The Soft Parade actually worked), and the rock-out focus and guitar sounding precise.
Rhino time within Wild Child. And then
86 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

AUDIOPHILE VINYL




his is a four LP col- and Ingar Zach. Lots of improv
lection. Four vinyl LPs, here.
that is – plus two extra ‘Towards Language - Live at
TCDs that duplicate the Punkt’ sees our man together with
material. All arrive in a slip case. Eivind Aarset (guitars) and Jan Bang
Featuring unreleased material / Erik Honoré (electronics, live
spanning around ten years, the sampling).
set features ‘Captured Under During mastering tests, the
Mountainsides’. It includes Skúli over-riding effect I had from these
Sverrisson and Hilmar Jensson and albums was the infusion of space
focuses on Henriksen’s home, the within each. The air that swills
western part of Norway, the death around the midrange and treble
of his brother and the sparse, maximises the large soundstage
empty space, a wild landscape. and provides a broad and sweeping
Nature, busting at the seams. presentation. Ideal for the often
The next LP, ‘Acousmograph’ ambient effects in and around
sees the man on his own and is Henriksen’s music. Those partial to
more experimental in nature, taking an extended reverb tail or two will
classical music as an inspiration. be most pleased. ARVE HENRIKSEN
Henriksen’s ability to make the The odd breathy moments
trumpet sound like a flute is to the during soft trumpet passages
fore here. add both atmosphere and a
‘Cryosphere’ is a co- sense of immediacy to the entire
production with long time production.
collaborator Jan Bang, re-modelling This is a fine collection for
material from a series of evolving Henricksen, a selection of rarities The Timeless Nowhere
concert performances and featuring that will only strengthen his fan Rune Grammofon
Audun Kleive, Helge Norbakken base.
AUDIOPHILE VINYL















panning the group’s edition arrives in a gatefold triple
appearance in the vinyl set with a fully printed inner
famous live 1970 and bundled with a CD version.
Sfestival, the content On a mastering level? The
includes less known pieces includ- words ‘audiophile’ and ‘live
ing ‘I Don’t Even Know Myself’, album’ are often a contradiction
‘Water’ and ‘Naked Eye’. in terms, because the inherent
The set begins with an sonic frequencies are lined up to
introduction: “From Shepherds resemble a dog’s breakfast.
Bush, London...The Who!” Actually, Positioned on an elevated
no. What he says is, “From Shepards platform, in the open air, with
Bush, London...Th’Oo!” rudimentary equipment set up and
The band seemed to be ‘on’. no isolation, the aural response
The performance was full of is less about accuracy and more
intensity and energy so even if about energy and that’s what you
you’ve heard 1001 renditions of get here. Passion, energy and music
‘Tommy’ played live, this particular propelled at your ears with drive
example is worthy of some note. and dynamism.
There’s also a sense of connection This live album is not about
with the audience and maybe this is chin scratching and gauging the THE WHO
part of the reason for the concert’s relative merits of any possible 3D
success. That is, one lifts the other effect of the central soundstage. Oh
to emotional heights. no. This one is about sweat, spittle,
This new version of the classic mad staring eyes (well, it is if you
release comes from earMUSIC/Edel glance towards Keith Moon) and
as part of a major vinyl imprint force. This is three slabs of emotion. Live At The Isle Of Wight Festival
that looks to release 200 titles. This And it’s all the better for it. earMUSIC

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 87

Bring al l


your music



to life

REVIEW



Connect With This








Titan Audio’s new Nemesis interconnect is something special, says Jon Myles.


elfast-based Titan Audio – but they are flexible enough to back my previous interconnects
have produced some be routed through tight spots and – which I’ve always admired. Suddenly
impressive products in certainly feel good quality. the sound became a little bit more
their relatively short lifes- Interconnects commonly go under closed in, with less freedom and sense
pan. I couldn’t help but the radar for many users but they of natural flow.
Bbe impressed with their are a vital link in the chain between Moving back to the Titans I found
flagship Nemesis loudspeaker cables source and amplifier – and the better there was more snap to the cymbal
(Hi-Fi World review August 2019). Yes, you make them the more impressive work on John Coltrane’s ‘Interstellar
at £3000 for a two metre pair they they sound. Space’ and a good deal more bass
are not cheap – but they displayed an with Joy Division’s ‘She’s Lost Control’.
open, fluid nature that made music SOUND QUALITY No, it’s not a night and day difference
sound natural and organic as though Swapping out my usual interconnects but it’s more than enough to make
they imparted no artificial restrictions between a CD player and amplifier you sit up and take notice.
on the sound. I found the changes were startling. Again, these interconnects - like
Now we have the accompanying It took a few minutes to realise but their partnering loudspeaker cables
Titan Nemesis interconnects there was a definite lowering of – cost at £1500 per metre. But you
– available as both RCAs and balanced the noise floor – a sense of music could spend more on a new pre-
XLRs. Their construction is similar to emerging from deep silence. amp or amplifier and get less of an
the ‘speaker cables, using High Purity Hence the guitar on Tom Petty’s improvement. For these cables are all
Silver single crystal cables sheathed in ‘American Girl’ took on a much about unleashing the true potential of
a PTFE dielectric with each series of grittier nature, devoid of any mush the equipment you already have. I’d
strands individually shielded to reduce or blur. Indeed it sounded absolutely say try them out and see what you
mains and airborne interference. In pristine – the higher registers coming think.
addition the cables are plated to aid across with total conviction.
the reduction of interference. The same went with Clarence CONCLUSION
Silver plugs and conductors have Clemons’ saxophone on Bruce Quality construction and sublime
a carbon fibre outer casing. Aluminium Springsteen’s ‘Badlands’. It was as sound combine to make one of the
and carbon anti-vibration cylinders are though a filter had been removed so Titan Nemesis interconnects amongst
also fitted to remove EMI interference. the music flowed freely without any the best available at present. Not
Admittedly, the construction impediment. cheap but worth every penny. Also
makes the interconnects rather hefty The acid test came when plugging come with a lifetime guarantee.






TITAN NEMESIS
INTERCONNECTS
£1500 PER METRE


OUTSTANDING - amongst
the best.

VERDICT
Imposes little character on
the sound, letting music flow
effortlessly.
FOR
- neutral
- beautifully constructed
- solid connectors
- sturdy
AGAINST
- not cheap

Titan Audio
+44 (0) 2890 726003
www.titanaudio.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 89

FEATURE



Christmas




Wishes








NAME: Paul Rigby
STATUS: Hi-Fi World's own Mr Vinyl

Paul Rigby digs out some inexpensive and unusual tweaks for Christmas.








CARTRIDGE ENABLER: £19 (www.originlive.com)
The idea here is to isolate your cartridge with a gasket, in this case with the use of a slab
of specialist material and a few washers. It sits in-between the cartridge and the headshell
of your tonearm. Origin Live say the effect is like improving the suspension of your car.
The profile of the unit is a contributor to the enhanced sonics and the washers are too,
made from the same material as the Enabler itself. Worth trying out at Christmas.






HRS COUPLER DISCS: £77 PACK OF TWO (www.avisolation.com)
These separate discs are superb at isolating errant speaker cables. The latter are broadcast aerials. The
Coupler discs damp that effect, basically absorbing noise and enhancing clarity, transparency and honing
detail. To install the discs (although I hesitate to even use the word), you simply slip the discs under the
cable until all of the cable length is clear of the floor.



QED REFERENCE XT40I SPEAKER CABLES PRE-TERMINATED 3M: £129.95
(www.qed.co.uk)
These budget speaker cables include an Air Gap dielectric to cut capacitance while the proprietary
X-Tube technology remains in place. There’s also a 4.0mm cross sectional area and 99.999%
oxygen-free copper construction.
Offering a wide soundstage, the cables provide a low noise presentation with plenty of detail
on offer allied to an airy midrange. Instrumental separation is good which enhances transparency
and tonality. Frequency discipline is high which also helps to retain bass focus. All in all, these cables
offer a great entry point for budget fans and make a good Christmas present.

QED PERFORMANCE AUDIO 40I 1M: £49.95 (www.qed.co.uk)
This new cable includes a first for QED, the introduction of Solid Core Complementary
Conductors which they say reduce capacitance by a quarter compared to the originals.
There's one Oxygen Free Copper Conductor and one Silver-Plated Oxygen Free Copper
Conductor inside to carry the same audio signal. Ferrite insulation technology is in there
too. QED’s Anamate RCA plugs are on the ends of each cable. Another interesting yet
inexpensive Christmas present perhaps?



PURITAN GROUND MASTER: FROM £165 (www.puritanaudiolabs.com)
Connect one wire’s end to your hi-fi metalwork, the earth on a pre-amp being a good spot.
Noise then travels from your hi-fi into the Ground Master and out the other end, down
more wire into your garden, into the supplied copper rod buried in your garden. The result
will be improved sound quality in your hi-fi. An interesting idea worth trying at Christmas!
90 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

FEATURE



Christmas




Wishes








NAME: Jon Myles
STATUS: Hi-Resolution Digital Expert

Resident Rock lover and digital expert Jon Myles puts forward an intriguing list of present
possibilities.


BOB DYLANS CATALOGUE: £18.89 OR £43.99 (www.amazon.co.uk)
Bob Dylan’s catalogue is nothing if not all-encompassing. But if there’s one essential you must own it’s NY-
Columbia Records and Legacy Recordings’ latest Dylan bootleg series boxset. It spans Dylan’s pivotal musical
journeys to Nashville from 1967 to 1969, focusing on previously unavailable recordings made with Johnny
Cash and unreleased tracks from the John Wesley Harding, Nashville Skyline and Self Portrait sessions.
The 3-CD (£18.89) or 3-vinyl boxset (£43.99) are 50 tracks of pure delight to any fan of the ‘60s folk/
rock scene – and even those who are not. If you ever wanted to hear Bob Dylan at his rootsiest best with a
set of ground breaking tunes to go with it then this is the place to go. The packaging is also top-notch, which
only adds to the value...


CHORD COMPANY SHAWLINE X: £30 PER METRE (www.chord.co.uk)
Chord’s Shawline X is based around the Chord Rumour cable – a best-seller for 20-plus years – although with some
significant changes. The conductors are still silver-plated, insulated with XLPE and arranged in a twisted pair configu-
ration. But with the Shawline X Chord have taken the existing conductor layout but added a specially-chosen PVC
internal jacket to reduce mechanical noise, before applying the same high density, dual-layer foil and braid shield that
is used on the more expensive Chord Epic. Eminently neutral with plenty of detail, they are ideal for budget to mid-
priced systems since they don’t cost a fortune. Plug them in between any amplifier and loudspeakers and the chances
are you’ll definitely hear a difference above standard cables. At just £30 per metre they won’t break the bank.


AKG 72 HEADPHONES: £40 (https://uk.akg.com)
AKG’s 72 headphones offer amazing bang for your buck. Yes, they look fairly large (because they are) but as decently-
priced (just £40) home headphones go they are truly impressive. These 'phones are extremely comfortable to wear
thanks to the large padded ear cups and adjustable headband. They also sound great with a wide soundstage full of
detail. Bass also has a real kick to it but never becomes over-dominant. Plug these into your home hi-fi system and
you’ll be listening for hours. The only drawback will be fitting them into Santa’s sack due to their size!



LINDY IN-EAR PHONES: £50 (www.lindy.co.uk)
German company Lindy’s in-ear ‘phones are certainly different. The standout feature of their ingenious IEM-50Xs is a
proprietary dynamic bass tuning system — where a rotary twist control on each earbud opens the rear chamber to
add more depth to the low end. Aside from that the Lindys look fairly standard — coming in a standard black with
red trim with a flat, 1.2m tangle-free TPE cable. Small, medium and large sized ear tips are also supplied to provide
optimum fit for different users while a handy carry case is also packed in the box. Build quality is good for the price
while in use the Lindys prove light and comfortable.. £50.



iBOUTIQUE WATER SPEAKER: £74.99 (www.amazon.co.uk)
It’s Christmas – so it’s time to party. And what better for this than a piece of audio equipment that not
only produces sound but also entertains. The iBoutique 4th Generation Bluetooth 2.1 Home Theatre
Party Dancing Water Speaker System features 6 LEDs and water jets per satellite speaker, comple-
mented by a 3D LED light show on the subwoofer.
To say it looks colourful is an understatement. And it goes louder than the 3 Watt satellite
‘speakers and 5 Watt subwoofer would suggest. It can also be used with the PC as desktop speakers or
with tablets, iPads, smart phones, iPods or in fact anything that supports Bluetooth. £74.99

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 91

FEATURE



Christmas




Wishes








NAME: Martin Pipe
STATUS: Technical expert on all things hi-fi

A free Christmas present? Yes, Martin Pipe even finds one of these for Christmas 2019,
amongst many other nice choices.


IFI ZEN BLUE HI-RES BLUETOOTH STREAMER: £129 (www.ifi-audio.com)
iFi's ZEN Blue is a diminutive gadget that adds Bluetooth capabilities to any hi-fi system. Bluetooth was a joke
worse than anything you’d find in a cracker, but thanks to developments like the HWA and aptX HD codecs
– supported alongside many others by the ZEN Blue – performance need not be sacrificed for convenience.
This modestly-priced unit employs cutting-edge Bluetooth technology, converts digital to analogue with a high-grade ESS Sabre chip and
has analogue sections constructed with audiophile-grade components. It even features balanced analogue outputs, as well as standard RCA
unbalanced types and optical/coaxial digital connectivity. Pop-up Xmas streaming radio has never sounded so good...
£129. www.ifi-audio.com


SURE UNIVERSAL REMOTE APP: free
If you’ve spent all of your money on the lead-up to Xmas, treat yourself to something
useful...but free (well, advert-supported). Replace your infra-red (IR) handsets with a universal
remote...that runs on your smartphone. It’s an app for both Android and iOS that can be
constantly upgraded to accommodate new kit. Later versions of Sure have additional features
like a media player and ‘voice assistant’. The caveat for IR gear is that your smart-device
needs to incorporate a ‘blaster’ – a feature slowly disappearing. Sure is thankfully compatible
with the Broadlink Wi-Fi to IR blaster – yours for less than a tenner on eBay!
Free, Google Play or Apple App store.





MOBILE FIDELITY INNER RECORD SLEEVES: £32.00 FOR 50 (www.russandrews.com)
Let’s talk paper...but not discarded Xmas wrapping! Re-sleeving LPs prolongs their useful life. Sleeves marketed by
Mobile Fidelity – best known for its audiophile pressings – fit the bill, being better than simple paper sleeves that
come as standard. Described as being of “archival-quality three-ply (polyethylene-paper-polyethylene) construction",
these sleeves will protect your precious records from contamination, scratches and – it is claimed – static-related
effects. £32.00 for 50. Go to www.russandrews.com


AUDIO-TECHNICA AT617A CARTRIDGE STYLUS CLEANER: £31 (https://eu.audio-technica.com)
The AT617a stylus cleaner is a small pot containing a special type of polyurethane gel that never sets. Position
said pot strategically onto your platter and use the cueing lever to gently lower the stylus onto the gel’s
surface. Raise it, and you’ll notice that crud has been transferred to the tacky surface of AT’s water-washable
wonder. It’s amazing how much rubbish accumulates on a stylus tip when playing records – and equally
amazing what removing it does for sound quality! Let’s have one in the stocking...
£31. https://eu.audio-technica.com/


PSPATIAL AUDIO STEREO LAB: £70 (www.pspatialaudio.com))
Apple Mac only software. It can decode CD-4 discrete quadraphonic records using DSP, fed 24/96
PCM digital direct from a playing system. Stereo Lab will also decode matrix systems like SQ, QS,
UHJ and the BBC’s Matrix-H system, providing multichannel PCM.
Other features include stereo enhancement, surround upmixing, accurate LP equalisation
curves, noise reduction, de-clicking, removal and even cancellation of tracking distortion! More’s to
come. You’ll know what I’ll be playing with, if Christmas TV isn’t up to scratch...
£70. www.pspatialaudio.com (Free demo available)
92 HI-FI WORLD JANUARY 2020 www.hi-fiworld.co.uk

FEATURE



Christmas




Wishes








NAME: Dave Tutt
STATUS: Hands-on audio engineer

Dave Tutt is still settling in to his new house and wants to save a few bob. Here are his
budget suggestions for the Christmas tree.


WAVLINK N300 WI-FI ROUTER: £16.99 (www.amazon.co.uk)
In my new house I need to extend the Wi-Fi. So a simple device to plug into the
UTP at the router, extend this connection over the wiring in the house and then re-
broadcast the signal is all that’s required. There are any number of them out there
but I picked the WavLink N300 and just have to remember the security aspect which
may require some careful reconfiguration of the router settings. I have installed these
in several homes and they always work with a variety of internet service providers.
£16.99 at Amazon.



NEUTRIK 2 SPEAKON: £2.90 (www.cpc.farnell.com)
What better way to connect up the speakers than with some Neutrik 2 pole Speakon connectors – and at
only £2.90 each they are a bit of a bargain. Only need four of them so it won’t break the Santa bank. I have
been using Speakons for a long time in PA systems and find that they are reasonably reliable but benefit from
shorting protection if you disconnect whilst still powered up at the amp, so the protection is both during use
and when not. Perfect. And wiping contacts too. Price £2.90 each from www.cpc.farnell.com.




HANDSFREE EARPHONES WITH MIC & VOLUME CONTROL FOR
IPHONES & SMART PHONES: £2.69 (www.ebay.co.uk)
My phones get heavy use and generally last me around 6 months before they
start failing, due to charging or other issues. Currently, my Huawei has no
microphone as it just stopped one day after a software update. So I am using ear
buds with integral mic instead. These too last about a month but just £2.69 buys
me disposable eBay replacements. A nice, simple pressy. £2.69 www.ebay.co.uk.







REMAX RM-303 STEREO EARPHONE WITH MIC: £9.99 (www.ebay.co.uk)
OK, when I’m going somewhere posh the Remax RM-303 earphones with mic. are brought
out. Still not high fidelity I grant you – but people in the Savoy don't know that. Just £9.99
from www.ebay.com.




JACK ADAPTOR, STEREO: £1.27 (www.cpc.farnell.com)
My customers who have purchased headphones from me recently have all needed
and expected freebie adaptors – and they are so cheap I should really buy them in
bulk. Of course you need both types: big to small and small to big – and no matter
what the headphone lead I will always need the opposite!
These little adaptors are just £1.27 each in either version. Price £1.27 from
www.cpc.farnell.com.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 93

REVIEW



Back to the








future











Martin Pipe tries a Bluetooth 'speaker that dares be different.
I twenty grand... remote control and 192/24-capable

can picture the Klipsch Three
II loudspeaker I am review-

Hence the smaller and more
USB Type-B port for audio from
ing here pouring Miles Davis
affordable Three II tabletop audio
computers. The ‘II’ suffix points to
earlier versions, and one of these had
system. This is basically an upmarket
and Cannonball Adderley into
the chic lounge of a spacious
and whistles, as well as retro-styling.
built in. Such functionality is missing
suburban American bungalow
of the late fifties. It was back in 1947 Bluetooth speaker with extra bells an app-controlled Wi-Fi music player
here, but in all fairness there’s a £50
Said extras include two line inputs,
Paul W. Klipsch launched the iconic one with a 3.5mm stereo jack, the saving.
‘Klipschorn’ loudspeaker. Still made other convertible into a MM phono Most Bluetooth speakers are
today it will set you back nearly stage at the flick of a switch. There is mono. The Three II, though, is stereo












































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

REVIEW








The Klipsch Three II rear
panel carries a USB socket
for computer audio (up to
192kHz/24-bit) but con-
ventional digital sources
aren’t catered for. A
slide switch converts the
phono-socketed line input
into a Phono input for a
turntable.






from the outset thanks to a pair of Sources can also be changed and percussion and the
5cm full-range drivers that work volume raised or lowered with the brass instruments
in conjunction with a 13.5cm long- remote – a rather plasticky item that of the Ohio Players’
throw woofer and “dual opposed” could do with a touch of the ‘Klipsch Pleasure album are The remote
13.5cm passive radiators. You can’t heritage’ style magic. The remote also anything to go by. selects sources,
see them, because the grille is non- has a standby function, and if you’re Complex changes volume,
removable. Driving the Three II’s using Bluetooth or USB sources it orchestral material mutes the sound
complement of drivers are amplifiers will allow you to jump to the next or – for example Dvorak’s and selects stand-
claimed to total “120W”, with no previous track of the current playlist. In Nature’s Realm, as by. It is a bit of
further details beyond that. On the subject of Bluetooth, setup is played during a Radio 3 an ugly duckling
Power levels remotely near easy - simply pair your smart device evening concert – was compared to the
that figure would quickly drain the with ‘Klipsch The Three II’. given a tonally-credible Three II.
batteries of the average Bluetooth presentation too. But
speaker so the Three II gets around SOUND QUALITY there’s a caveat - the
that problem by not having any. This I tried the Three II with a Google orchestra sounded as
unit, which weighs nearly 5kg, is Pixel 3a smartphone loaded with a if it had been crammed
designed for mains power only. selection of losslessly-compressed into a small room,
The Three II is remarkably music and the versatile VLC Media simply because the stereo image is so
easy to use. On the top panel are a Player app, a Cambridge CXN v2 narrow from a box that’s 35cm wide.
wonderfully old-school paddle-switch streamer connected to the auxiliary Vinyl listening was a little
to wake it up or shut it down, and input (there are no S/PDIF digital disappointing. Yes, there was still
knobs to adjust volume and cycle inputs) and a vintage Pioneer quartz- that big bass-rich character that
through sources. The currently- locked Direct-Drive turntable worked wonders with, say, the Are
selected source is confirmed with a equipped with Shure cartridge. Via a You Sphongled? double LP. But things
subtly-illuminated white LED. Bluetooth connection - reported as weren’t so hot at the other end of
‘HD Audio: Qualcomm aptX Audio’ the spectrum; records sounded dull
- the Three II immediately gave me a and lifeless in treble terms. Switching KLIPSCH THE
good idea of what it’s about. cartridges made no difference. An THREE II £395
The sound is best described as external phono stage (or turntable £
‘big’ – far bigger than you’d believe with one built in) would restore the EXCELLENT - extremely
from a box measuring 35cm x 20cm balance. capable.
x 20cm, or thereabouts. Basslines,
notably the electronic ones of the CONCLUSION VALUE - keenly priced.
tracks that make up 808 State’s On the whole, the Klipsch Three II
Transmission Suite album, sounded is a very likeable proposition that’ll VERDICT
Big sound from a small and
fulsome and warm. Indeed, the low- be great for kitchens, home offices, superbly-styled package.
end can be a little overwhelming at bedrooms and other secondary
times; it’s a pity that Klipsch didn’t listening environments. Sometimes, FOR
include tone controls. But we’re it’s hard to accept that you’re - fulsome presentation
The understated 1950s heritage not talking about ‘one-note’ bass listening to a box of such modest - clean, even at high levels
styling works very well, mak- – a limitation of many Bluetooth proportions. Under such circum- - retro appearance
ing the Klipsch Three II a visu- speakers. There was tunefulness and stances, the lacklustre phono stage AGAINST
ally-distinctive proposition. Our articulation. and inability to convey a believable - compressed stereo image
review sample was finished in Speech from, say, Radio 4 stereo image won’t be so important. - phono stage sounds dull
‘walnut’, but an equally attrac- announcers as heard via the CXN, Those gorgeously-understated looks - bass can overwhelm at
tive ‘matte black’ version is also ha d good presence, although traces will help it blend neatly into most times
available. No tone controls are of chestiness were apparent at times. decor schemes – not just late-50s Henley Audio
provided – a pity as bass output Treble was crisp and clean, if the U.S. homes with a Plymouth Fury +44 (0)1235 511166
was strong. unit’s reproduction of 808 State’s parked outside. www.henleyaudio.co.uk

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 95

A FESTIVE TREAT FOR







VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.hi-fiworld.co.uk


A SUBSCRIPTION TO HI-FI WORLD


MAKES THE PERFECT GIFT FOR

YOUR NEAREST AND DEAREST.






SAVE ...up toto26%





...up



Subscribe today and you will get a special
discounted rate giving a saving of 15% to

26% off the cover price. That’s an amazing
£3.83 - £3.33 per issue including postage.





So don’t delay, take out a subscription

today!



FOR BACK ISSUES ENQUIRIES PLEASE CALL
01442 820580






OVERSEAS SUBSCRIPTIONS IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE THE UK,
PLEASE CALL FOR OUR LATEST PRICES
+44 (0) 1442 820580






SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? CALL NOW!!!

SUBSCRIPTION HOTLINE 01442 820 580

Lines open Mon-Fri 9.00-5.00 or (weekend answering service available)




FOR OUR email:
ON-LINE MAGAZINE [email protected]
GO TO WWW.HI-FIWORLD.CO.UK

YOU FROM HI-FI WORLD







VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.hi-fiworld.co.uk WHY SUBSCRIBE TO HI-FI WORLD? ❑ I would like a years subscription to
Hi-Fi World and receive a discount off the
■ 12 issues a year delivered straight to your door. cover price (I have read and accept the terms
and conditions).
■ Be fi rst to grab a bargain in our "Free Reader
Classifi ed Ads" section.
I would like to pay for my 12 issues by:
■ Run by dedicated hi-fi engineers and enthusiasts.
❑ 6 monthly Direct Debit: Pay £22.00 every 6
■ Subscribers receive a minimum 10% Discount
annually. months saving 19% off the yearly subscription
rate of £54.00
■ Hi-Fi World has become famous for its informative
reviews and radical kit designs. ❑ Annual Direct Debit: Pay £40.00 every 12
months saving 26% off the yearly subscription
■ PLUS! Subscribe by Direct Debit and receive a rate of £54.00
16.5% discount on a yearly subscription (UK only).

❑ Annual cheque/credit card: Pay £46.00
saving 15% off the yearly subscription rate of
£54.00
Cheques made payable to Audio Web Publishing Ltd.
Hi-Fi World, Subscriptions Department Unit 4 College Road,
Business Park, College Road North, Aston Clinton HP22 5EZ
Your Details
Title ____________ Forename ____________________________

Surname ________________________________________

Address ________________________________________
________________________________________

________________________________________

Post Code ________________________________________

Daytime Tel: ________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________


Bank and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debits Instructions for some types of accounts
The guarantee should be detached and retained by the Payer Please debit my ❑ VISA ❑ MASTER ❑ MAESTRO ❑ AMEX
The Direct Debit Guarantee (SWITCH)
• This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept Security No: (last three digits printed on the signature strip)
instructions to pay Direct Debits
• If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct
Debit Webscribe Ltd will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as other-
wise agreed. If you request Webscribe Ltd to collect a payment, confi rmation of the amount and date will be
given to you at the time of the request
• If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit by Webscribe Ltd or your bank or building society
you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society Valid from Date:__ _____/________ Expiry Date:__ _____/________
• If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when Webscribe Ltd asks you to
• You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society. Written con-
fi rmation may be required. Please also notify us.
Switch card issue No:
TERMS & CONDITIONS: You will receive 12 issues per year. Cardholder Signature: _______________________ ____________
Minimum subscription term is 12 months. Prices include P&P and are
correct at the time of going to press. All prices are quoted in sterling. Offer Outside UK:-
available for UK subscribers, only. For enquiries relating to overseas pricing
call + 44 (0) 1442 820 580. EUROPE Airmail £50.00
OVERSEAS Airmail £70.00






Send this form to:
Hi-Fi World, Subscriptions Department Unit 4 College Road, Business Park, College Road North, Aston Clinton HP22 5EZ



OPINION






"Digital is changing the


world but it is a hard task



master"






Noel Keywood

ow digital is changing the digital age seems not to need music, it also changed the economics.
the world. It’s tearing them. Vast amounts of data being Artists could reach a bigger audience
down the old order. sent to every corner of the world and potentially make far more but
Our high streets are instantaneously, meaning much faster now there were intermediaries who
being ground down by than your local postman – so he’s paid them – the music business was
Hthe move to on-line out. Of a job. born, as was the gramophone or
shopping caused by the growth of Digital is so disruptive, but at the latterly the hi-fi business.
digital communication – my son same time so elusive it has become The argument goes that with
casually orders goods on his mobile an invisible force we don’t perceive digital streaming artists now have
and they arrive the next day. A shop? or fully understand in terms of the freedom to reach their audience
Whassat? societal impact. If HMV closes down direct once more: they don’t have to
And it affects – often in brutal thousands of jobs will go – as they rely on recorded discs that are sold
manner – how we live, including are with so many retailers nowadays as physical items, in HMV racks or
listen to music and watch films. Back as the ‘net takes over. Yep, even I at your local market stall. In effect
in 1983, when CD was launched, used Mothercare (!) and they've then, streaming isn’t new at all, it is a
no one foresaw that digital on the now gone, and as for Maplins – I will return to the way things once were,
‘net would send digital on disc to never recover. before the disruptive gramophone
the scrap heap. This sea change in There’s a rout going on with arrived.
our technological future has just digital. Amazon has become a de- This view potentially damns
claimed another victim, HMV's facto source of everything man recorded music – bizarre but
flagship store on London’s Oxford makes on this planet and it relies on worth inspection. It has gut appeal
Street. I wondered how they could digital comms, although there is also but at the same time is simplistic.
survive; lines of CD racks, as always, a large physical aspect to Amazon. Now musicians have to reach their
containing something that’s hard It’s just made to be invisible: audience – you and I – through
to identify in arrays of small plastic warehouses ('fulfilment houses' the internet and that isn’t so easy.
cases. apparently) on anonymous industrial There’s no ready audience waiting to
Of the retailer’s downfall a BBC estates that you spot out of the be entertained and artists have no
journalist writes that people don’t train window. But digital comms physical form – listeners have to find
go into their loft anymore to rake made Amazon possible. I am now them.
through old CDs and play them. having to use them ever more. To enable that marketing skills
Heavens, has it got that bad? Are There is an interesting argument are needed from marketing people.
they now consigned to lofts? Does against the view that the move to It isn’t at all the same as being a
no one listen to CD any more? digital streaming is inherently bad. wandering minstrel – a romantic
The word now is Spotify or Tidal It goes like this. Once upon a time notion but nothing more.
and the like. There’s been a slow but music was played by live musicians There is a disarmingly frank
powerful move to streaming, aided who got paid for their skills and the explanation of the business from
in Spotify’s case by the lure of free pleasure they provided. But what Sina on her website Sina Drums
songs – if you don’t mind the ads. they did was ephemeral, it happened (https://girls-got-groove.com/bio),
Bringing into focus the presence and it was gone. An outstanding on Home and Bio pages. I believe
– or lack of – of just one socket performance was appreciated then she records in a basement home
on music players, the RJ45 Ethernet and there and after was eternally studio set up by her musician father.
socket. If a player does not now lost. Neither performance nor Note the quality of the recording
have one of these, basically allowing musician were recorded because the equipment and the sound quality of
it to request music from external technology didn’t exist. her covers you can hear on YouTube
sources – computers in your home When the gramophone was (try Wipeout by Sina). Fantastic
or around the world – then it is invented by Emile Berliner back in drumming and superb quality – but
steam age. If it plays CD it has cogs 1890 all that changed. Musicians like money is hard to come by she
and wheels inside, so forget that it is to be – and need to be – paid for points out. A wandering minstrel
‘digital’ it is still from our mechanical their work if they are to continue likely made more. Digital is changing
past, like the steam engine. with it to give us pleasure. The the world but it is a hard task
The steam age employed people; gramophone didn’t just capture master.

www.hi-fiworld.co.uk JANUARY 2020 HI-FI WORLD 99

WORLD AWARDS
HI-FI WORLD
HI-FI WORLD






















The best Christmas gift for audiophiles!

BEST AMPLIFIER 2018


For more information please contact us:
t: +44 (0)20 8374 3958 m: +44 (0)7983 619671 e: [email protected] w: www.vincentshop.co.uk

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