Future TAS: Lyra Erodion EVO, Record Doctor X, Audiovector QR SE Series

Lyra Erodion EVO

Lyra’s Erodion EVO is an mc step-up transformer especially designed for Lyra cartridges, but it is also a terrific fit with any low-impedance cartridge of 2–10 ohms. It’s a particularly compelling mate to Lyra’s SL (Single-Layer coil) mc cartridges—the Kleos SL, Etna Lambda SL, and Atlas Lambda SL. The Erodion EVO has wider bandwidth and dynamic range than other step-up transformers, which result in sonic impact that falls between that of an active head amp and a conventional step-up transformer. With 26dB gain the Erodion EVO increases the signal voltage and output impedance of low-output, low-impedance mc cartridges up to a level that’s comfortable for the mm phono inputs of preamplifiers and phonostages that have input loads of around 47k ohms. Includes an integrated Lyra-designed-and-made low-capacitance Phono Pipe output cable for connection to your phonostage. There are two switchable grounding positions.

Price: $6500. mibsdistro.com

Record Doctor X

An all-new version, Record Doctor X features  the same vacuum motor and cleaning strip as current models but with the added benefit of a vacuum swing arm that vacuums the top surface, while the bottom is vacuumed via a slot under the strip—saving time and effort. Additionally, it includes a bi-directional rotation motor, alleviating the need to turn the record by hand, and a screw-on 5″ clamp that safely secures and protects the record. Record Doctor X remains faithful to the original design, with an easy-to-place compact cabinet  and a handy storage tank for the simple removal of spent record-cleaning fluids.  Shipped  in sturdy eco-friendly recyclable packaging, it bypasses the messy and harmful Styrofoam used by much of the competition. The new Record Doctor X is available in both carbon-fiber vinyl and high-gloss black finishes.

Price: $599. pangeaaudio.com

Audiovector QR SE Series

Audiovector’s new QR SE Series’ highly specialized, double-cryogenic, polypropylene/tin-flash-copper, in-house-designed capacitors are the results of constant listening, measuring, and improvement and provide the AMT tweeters with the best possible conditions for sounding even sweeter and more detailed. The use of cryogenically treated pure copper wiring and Audiovector Nanopore damping material creates smooth and natural musical reproduction. The Audiovector Pure Piston dual-magnet bass units work like a perfect piston over several octaves of the frequency band, without the distortion normally found in aluminum/diamond drive units. Due to their gentle impedance load and high efficiency of 90dB, the QR Series speakers (QR3 SE pictured) are also easily driven by solid state or tube amplifiers. Other features include improved heat dissipation via metal-housed resistors, delivering even stabler high-power precision. All QR SEs feature subtle, elegant, golden brass badges on their front panels and cloth grilles.

Price: QR3, $3000; QR7, $6500; QR5, $4650; compact QR1, $1725. audiovector.com