The Context: I was asked to lead two seminars, one each evening after the exhibits were closed for those participating in the show itself. On both evenings, there were SRO (standing-room–only) crowds lining the walls ...

For the past ten years I’ve been using Lloyd Walker’s record player—with air-bearing linear-tracking tonearm, massive air-bearing platter, and air-suspension feet—as my reference. Other excellent ’tables have come and gone; only the Walker has stayed. ...

Technology Preview: NAD M2 Direct Digital Amplifier Is This The Future of Audio Amplification? Robert Harley Note: The full review of the M2, including a detailed description of its sound quality, will appear in the ...

The TAS Golden Ear Club recently held its first major event for members, an editors’ briefing and reception at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest 2009. The event took place before a standing room only group ...

After many none-too-sutble hints to colleagues Harley and Valin and a few well placed words to Magico marketing guy Irv Gross, I’ve finally received a pair of Magico’s for review–the 2.5-way V2, a floorstander. They ...

In Issue 196 I reviewed the Wireworld Platinum Eclipse interconnect, the company’s latest flagship wire. I was impressed. In a nutshell, this is what I had to say about the Eclipse interconnect: “There’s no shortage ...

This press release crossed my desk. I've heard a 7.1-channel Meridian system playing high-res DVD-A (and film soundtracks) and the experience is not to be missed. Meridian and Audio High Partner For Evening of Excellence ...

The most unusual product I saw at the show was a near-field listening chair from a new company called i-Fi. The chair incorporates small minimonitors mounted on the chair, electronics to drive them, a subwoofer, ...

Greatest Bargain at Rocky Mountain Audio Fest Frank Van Alstine has been making super-affordable high-performance gear for decades, but he might have outdone himself with the UltraValve, a 30Wpc stereo all-tube amplifier for just $1695. ...

It has been a sad season for audio. Earlier this year the shocking news about David Steven of dCS, then we heard that Gordon died, then that Jim Thiel had tragically passed away at only ...

Some Thoughts on Jim Thiel I’m deeply saddened to report that Jim Thiel, founder of the loudspeaker company that bears his name, passed away on September 18 at the age of 62. Jim Thiel was ...

The year was 1987 and digital audio was still emerging unsteadily from its technological stone-age. The year was also noteworthy for the highly anticipated, first-ever release of the Beatles catalog on compact disc. Although the ...

Okay you’ve just blown your budget acquiring the stereo or mono (or both!!) box sets of the new Beatles Remasters. That’s a big bundle of discs that you’ve just added to your collection. Sure they ...

It’s been more than a couple years since I unboxed a Simaudio integrated amp. WG recently did their latest entry level i-1 gear and loved it and truth be told I kind of felt a ...

Here’s a question: What stereo amp generates 130Wpc into 8 ohms, is stable down to 2 ohms, has a bandwidth that extends to 400kHz, is capable of 40 amp swings, has a damping factor greater ...