AudioCircle

The Commercial Zone => Audio Shows and Events => Topic started by: MaxCast on 12 Mar 2013, 02:03 pm

Title: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: MaxCast on 12 Mar 2013, 02:03 pm
T.H.E. Show in Newport Beach
May 31-June 2 2013
http://www.theshownewport.com/
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: neekomax on 12 Mar 2013, 02:19 pm
I was all psyched to go to this, check out the debut of the S P A T I A L Computer Trilogy speakers.

Only to now realize this is in Newport Beach, CA, not Newport, RI.  :duh:

Welp, have fun, guys.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: R_burke on 12 Mar 2013, 07:18 pm
I was all psyched to go to this, check out the debut of the S P A T I A L Computer Trilogy speakers.

Only to now realize this is in Newport Beach, CA, not Newport, RI.  :duh:

Welp, have fun, guys.

I plan on spending some time with them and will try and report back
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: simoon on 16 Mar 2013, 04:14 pm
This a great run show. I've been to the first 2.

Can't wait for this year's.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 20 Mar 2013, 06:06 pm
Does anybody know if they still are planning on the Cigar show by the pool this year?  I've scoured their website, can't find any mention.  If so, that's where you'll find me afterhours  :D
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Russtafarian on 20 Mar 2013, 06:18 pm
Quote
Does anybody know if they still are planning on the Cigar show by the pool this year?  I've scoured their website, can't find any mention.  If so, that's where you'll find me afterhours 

You can email Richard Beers and ask. rbeers007@gmail.com
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 20 Mar 2013, 06:45 pm
You can email Richard Beers and ask. rbeers007@gmail.com

Thanks, email sent ...
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 20 Mar 2013, 11:49 pm
Looks like pre-registration has begun and room reservations are posted.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: enjoythemusic on 22 Mar 2013, 04:04 pm
Cool, and look forward to covering the show (and cigar smoking with....) :)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 11 Apr 2013, 04:12 pm
Passes purchased, room booked - gambling on staying at one of the hotels. Makes it easy to take breaks. Stash a few beers and a couple of bottles of wine.  :green: Stretch out for few. Figure out if there's any after hours "tweaking" going on.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: ltr317 on 11 Apr 2013, 04:57 pm
I had a blast at the show last year, and am looking forward to attending again this year.   :thumb:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Dimfer on 1 May 2013, 09:48 am
plane ticket & hotel booked - looking forward to it, and enjoy some California sun after ten months of Canadian winter  :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: ltr317 on 2 May 2013, 04:04 am
plane ticket & hotel booked - looking forward to it, and enjoy some California sun after ten months of Canadian winter  :lol: :lol:

You better bring suntan lotion then.  Otherwise, you're going to end up looking like a beet!   :D
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: John Casler on 4 May 2013, 12:05 am
Will be there in the NuFORCE Room Fifth Floor (#535 right beside the LA and Orange County Audio Society Suite)  featuring some high end NuFORCE Gear, some NEW NuFORCE Gear, TRINITY Speakers from my friend Hugh at Angel City Audio, Power Conditioner called the Power Broker from WyWires, and Acoustic Treatment from LA Sound Panels.

Please feel free to come by and see (and hear) the system and gear.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: enjoythemusic on 20 May 2013, 12:32 pm
Have decided to run a contest during T.H.E. Show Newport Beach 2013 :)

CONTEST: Wear Cool Stuff – Win Free Goodies
All you have to do is wear one of the Enjoy the Music.com swag t-shirts at the upcoming T.H.E. Show Newport Beach event. When Steven R. Rochlin of Enjoy the Music.com sees you wearing the t-shirt you’ll win a great audiophile prize! So come check out our swag and show the world your love for music. Get our swag right now at www.CafePress.com/enjoythemusic5
 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 20 May 2013, 09:13 pm
Thanks, email sent ...

Is the cigar event going to be a part of the show?  I have some fat Zinfandel that mimics a good port to go with a good cigar. 

Are there other after hours events?  I think WyWires was hosting something. 

My buddy that does tatoos has indicated that he will bring his rig and do "Enjoy The Music" tats if you sponsor his trip.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 20 May 2013, 10:28 pm
Is the cigar event going to be a part of the show?  I have some fat Zinfandel that mimics a good port to go with a good cigar. 

Yes, cigars are part of the show.  Although I tried to work with them to help get some industry people I know to the show, and didn't have any luck getting action on their part.  So no idea what the plan is. 

About that Zinfandel, care to share with an out-of-towner?   :P
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 20 May 2013, 11:27 pm
Sure.  We are coming from the Bay Area and are out of towners too.  We are having dinner Sat Night then returning.   What time do the cigars light up?  The website still does not post times and dates.  Will you have a room?   We'll stop by on Saturday.  Where you at?

We are a party of 9 so far.  I'll double down on the zin.

Love to hear your speakers.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 21 May 2013, 12:13 am
Sure.  We are coming from the Bay Area and are out of towners too.  We are having dinner Sat Night then returning.   What time do the cigars light up?  The website still does not post times and dates.  Will you have a room?   We'll stop by on Saturday.  Where you at?

We are a party of 9 so far.  I'll double down on the zin.

Love to hear your speakers.

Fantastic!  It would make the trip for us to be able to partake of some small batch California wines!  I think the cigar 'event' is Saturday night, but honestly they didn't seem to organized for that part.  My understanding is you can smoke cigars any time out by the pool at the hotel. 

We'll be sharing a room with Steve Nugent of Empirical Audio, Atrium 206.  Please do come by Friday or Saturday and say hi, we'd love to share dinner and some conversation. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 21 May 2013, 12:49 am
......Saturday night is starting to sound like a lot of fun.

Complicated, but fun.

I'll be bringing some bottles of the red stuff as well. Joined the Sterling wine club when we did the tour a few months ago, so I have some interesting things..... :green:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 21 May 2013, 03:05 am
I'll be bringing some bottles of the red stuff as well. Joined the Sterling wine club when we did the tour a few months ago, so I have some interesting things..... :green:

Sounds like I may be needing some Alka Seltzer, and getting into the room a bit late Sunday morning ...
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 21 May 2013, 03:09 am
So are we still good with 9 for dinner?
Sure.  We are coming from the Bay Area and are out of towners too.  We are having dinner Sat Night then returning.   What time do the cigars light up?  The website still does not post times and dates.  Will you have a room?   We'll stop by on Saturday.  Where you at?

We are a party of 9 so far.  I'll double down on the zin.

Love to hear your speakers.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 21 May 2013, 04:15 am
Yeah Hugh, you are dead on the money there are 7 of us and two of you right?   You are handling the reservation at Woody's.   We may have to send two people in your car.  Got room?   John's SUV can only hold 5.   Are you in for the cigar and vino ago go later?

I really liked the Empirical room last year with the TAD speakers and the modifyed John Curl big boy silver boxes.  It was one of my favorites.  Cozy listening.  Vapor this year with John Curl?  The Empirical demo was really impressive.  I'm looking forward to hearing you best those TADs.  I'll bring some extra ibuprofen, for either a wine and cigar overload or a bad speaker demo.  HAHA!  We are 9 for dinner right now at Woodys Wharf in Newport Beach.  Hugh from Angel City is hosting I don't see why we can't add two more.  It's up to Woodys.

See you behind the Orange Curtain soon. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 21 May 2013, 04:37 am
I think we are up to 10 now with Shawbros3 flying down.

It's going to be hard trying to beat those TAD speakers.

We'll have a van so we'll have room for a couple of people.
If you take some Melody home with you then dinner is on me, deal? :)

Yeah Hugh, you are dead on the money there are 7 of us and two of you right?   You are handling the reservation at Woody's.   We may have to send two people in your car.  Got room?   John's SUV can only hold 5.   Are you in for the cigar and vino ago go later?

I really liked the Empirical room last year with the TAD speakers and the modifyed John Curl big boy silver boxes.  It was one of my favorites.  Cozy listening.  Vapor this year with John Curl?  The Empirical demo was really impressive.  I'm looking forward to hearing you best those TADs.  I'll bring some extra ibuprofen, for either a wine and cigar overload or a bad speaker demo.  HAHA!  We are 9 for dinner right now at Woodys Wharf in Newport Beach.  Hugh from Angel City is hosting I don't see why we can't add two more.  It's up to Woodys.

See you behind the Orange Curtain soon.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 21 May 2013, 05:00 am
You have no idea Hugh.  It just might happen!  Just not until my ship comes in.  I like the PB-101 alot.   It sounds like a $ million in cash and prizes and that finish matches my speakers.   I'll have to borrow Morgans for a test drive.   

Imma need an extra suitcase for wine. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: woofersus on 21 May 2013, 05:46 am
You guys are saving room for me, right?  This is shaping up to be a fun weekend!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 21 May 2013, 04:10 pm
But of course.
You guys are saving room for me, right?  This is shaping up to be a fun weekend!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Pete Schumacher on 21 May 2013, 07:39 pm
Yeah Hugh, you are dead on the money there are 7 of us and two of you right?   You are handling the reservation at Woody's.   We may have to send two people in your car.  Got room?   John's SUV can only hold 5.   Are you in for the cigar and vino ago go later?

I really liked the Empirical room last year with the TAD speakers and the modifyed John Curl big boy silver boxes.  It was one of my favorites.  Cozy listening.  Vapor this year with John Curl?  The Empirical demo was really impressive.  I'm looking forward to hearing you best those TADs.  I'll bring some extra ibuprofen, for either a wine and cigar overload or a bad speaker demo.  HAHA!  We are 9 for dinner right now at Woodys Wharf in Newport Beach.  Hugh from Angel City is hosting I don't see why we can't add two more.  It's up to Woodys.

See you behind the Orange Curtain soon.

We will likely be demoing the Empirical DAC with the Vapor Nimbus (brand new, massive, 15" high sensitivity 3-way) and the Arte Forma Signature 40W 805 SET.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=80896)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 21 May 2013, 08:33 pm
Where can we find information about the elusive Nimbus? 

That is a sweet looking SET amp.  Very clean looking.  It ought to be a great demo.  Looking forward to it.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 21 May 2013, 08:48 pm
Where can we find information about the elusive Nimbus? 

That is a sweet looking SET amp.  Very clean looking.  It ought to be a great demo.  Looking forward to it.

Some teaser info here, but full details will be on www.vaporsound.com by the end of this weekend.

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=115968.0
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 25 May 2013, 11:46 pm
Wow. Less than a week away.

Looking forward to next weekend. Good music on good gear with other enthusiasts. Good drink and food to follow.  :thumb:

( :beer: here's hoping the elevators hold up)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Triode Pete on 30 May 2013, 04:57 pm
Triode Wire Labs will be providing the power cabling in the Angel City Audio room (Atrium 220) along with Melody HiFi and M&G Audio.

Triode Wire Labs will be also powering the Merrill Audio Veritas monoblocks in Hilton 1011 with Channel D & Lynx Studio Technology.

Wish I could be there but I'm just too darn busy getting a new speaker cable line-up to market and working on a joint venture with P.I. Audio Group...

Enjoy & have fun in Newport!  :beer:
Pete

PS - Hopefully see some of you at the Capital AudioFest in July!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 30 May 2013, 04:59 pm
This starts in just over 24 hours  :bounce:

Isn't anybody else excited?

I'm planning on arriving around noon tomorrow and will, eventually through the course of the weekend, hit everything. I will have a simple camera with me. I usually photograph each room (so I can better recall the rooms later).

If anybody has any requests, let me know. I will surely try to get photos and post them here after the show that day (or first thing the next morning).
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 30 May 2013, 05:02 pm
Triode Wire Labs will be providing the power cabling in the Angel City Audio room (Atrium 220) along with Melody HiFi and M&G Audio.

Triode Wire Labs will be also powering the Merrill Audio Veritas monoblocks in Hilton 1011 with Channel D & Lynx Studio Technology.

Wish I could be there but I'm just too darn busy getting a new speaker cable line-up to market and working on a joint venture with P.I. Audio Group...

Enjoy & have fun in Newport!  :beer:
Pete

PS - Hopefully see some of you at the Capital AudioFest in July!
I was hoping to see you there. :( Maybe RMAF in October. I will definitely be stopping by room 220 at the Atrium.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Triode Pete on 30 May 2013, 05:17 pm
I was hoping to see you there. :( Maybe RMAF in October. I will definitely be stopping by room 220 at the Atrium.

Hey John,
Was looking forward to seeing you as well but unfortunately too much "stuff" going on in the East Coast right now to make a trip out to Newport...  :cry:

Have a cold one for me,
Pete
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 30 May 2013, 05:25 pm
There is a high end electronics expo at this event? 

I thought it was for wine and cigar tasting?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81400)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 31 May 2013, 02:43 am
There is a high end electronics expo at this event? 

I thought it was for wine and cigar tasting?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81400)

 :o

You scare me sometimes Steve.......
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 31 May 2013, 03:56 am
Can you dig those shoes?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 31 May 2013, 01:41 pm
Went through my wine selection and am packing a 2007 Sterling Diamond Mountain Cabernet. Never had it before and not sure if it qualifies as a "small batch" or not  :dunno: Hope it's pretty good.

See everybody tomorrow and a few today.

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 31 May 2013, 02:33 pm
Yup. :)
Can you dig those shoes?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 31 May 2013, 02:33 pm
Excellent.

See you in a bit.
Went through my wine selection and am packing a 2007 Sterling Diamond Mountain Cabernet. Never had it before and not sure if it qualifies as a "small batch" or not  :dunno: Hope it's pretty good.

See everybody tomorrow and a few today.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 31 May 2013, 02:40 pm
Excellent.

See you in a bit.
See you there - gonna leave in an hour or so after the worst of the morning commute is over.

Got the room set up? Are you going to swap amps on a regular basis? :bounce:

I'd ask more questions, but I'd embarass myself. :green:

Oh - what time is dinner tomorrow?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: woofersus on 31 May 2013, 03:16 pm
See you there - gonna leave in an hour or so after the worst of the morning commute is over.

Got the room set up? Are you going to swap amps on a regular basis? :bounce:

I'd ask more questions, but I'd embarass myself. :green:

Oh - what time is dinner tomorrow?

Room is set up, but there's not that much to swap, I suppose.  We may be trying one er...large swap this morning.  If somebody were threatening to buy it, that might convince us to hook up the AN211.  :thumb:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 31 May 2013, 03:42 pm
Can Woodys accomodate us for dinner?

Hugh, I really would like to hear the new amps and the KR products if you have them.  Looking forward to seeing you guys and meeting Wooferus.


Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: soundofrockets on 31 May 2013, 06:51 pm
DMR Cab is pretty good.  looking forward to my first audio show.  will check with Hugh.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 31 May 2013, 08:53 pm
Sunil, I found a Seghesio Zin that the Wine Spectator gave 94 points at lunch.   Are the Wine Spectator like audio reveiwers?  Give them plenty of samples and they'll write anything?  I better hush up or I'll be banned from the hospitality rooms those guys are hosting.

What are you bringing? 





Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 31 May 2013, 09:08 pm
We are all set.
Can Woodys accomodate us for dinner?

Hugh, I really would like to hear the new amps and the KR products if you have them.  Looking forward to seeing you guys and meeting Wooferus.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 31 May 2013, 09:10 pm
Also, big MN845 is playing.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 31 May 2013, 09:57 pm
I saw the pic on Facebook!  That amp looks mean!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: soundofrockets on 31 May 2013, 10:40 pm
Also, big MN845 is playing.

 :drool:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 31 May 2013, 11:34 pm
Just for YOU.
Also, big MN845 is playing.

 :drool:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 1 Jun 2013, 02:12 am
At the show and having fun. I've already spent more $$$ than intended on records and discs. Listened to a bunch of rooms - only took pictures of the ones that were listenable (ran into several that were painful, but it's only Friday)

Gotta say, I liked the Melody/Angel City room a lot. Very enjoyable and listenable. Smooth. Good soundstage.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81488)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81489)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81490)
Sorry about the picture quality - it's just soooooooo much easier to carry around a point and shoot that a DSLR at these things.

Off to dinner

*edit/additional:

Hugh - enjoyed your room!

I even came back shortly before I left for the day in order to double check. This room sounds pretty bleeping good. There were no shortcomings that I could hear. The soundstage was wide and deep with very good focus. Bass was fast and plentiful. No "Glare" and not harsh at all. Great frequency extension on the top end gave plenty of "air" where it was supposed to be. :thumb:

This system was playing "music" as opposed to so many rooms that had very impressive sound.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 1 Jun 2013, 03:40 am
Thanks for coming John.

See you guys tomorrow.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 1 Jun 2013, 01:26 pm
Wow. Dinner around here can be a chore w/o reservations. Thought we'd go someplace different. Took a while to find a parking spot, and I could see people standing around outside. Got in and told it would be over an hour wait for a table for 2.  :o

Friday night. Oh well. Went to an Italian food place down the road with no wait. Was "OK"

Anyway, started the day at the stores at the show.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81510)
Vinyl junkies would have loved this place. One guy selling boxes of records as low as one dollar each, but also had a bunch that I couldn't resist. UK and European pressings. Also found an import specialist from Japan for CD's/SACD's. Prices had jumped on the SHM-SACD's, so I refrained ($60/ea for the one's I wanted) Still picked up some other stuff I had been looking for (Doors LA Woman SACD re-issue)

Started out at the big rooms, and found Dynaudio had brought some of their big speakers.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81512)

Very impressive sounding. A gentleman was already doing what appeared to be a fairly serious audition, but he was shaking his head. Took him a few attempts to convince the Rep's that they had Left and Right backwards. - First day of the show issues.

Did see some impressive gear.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81513)


Went to the Magico room and bounced all over the place. The traditional "sweet spot" chair (Front row center) had very good focus, detail and depth (Ricky Lee Jones "Last Chance Texaco" was playing), yet the sound wasn't satisfying - no bass. Anne was a couple rows back and said the same thing. If I moved close to the side walls, there was plenty of bass. - more first day issues - hope to go back


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81514)

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 1 Jun 2013, 01:34 pm
I've decided that I've become very sensitive to issues in the top end of the midrange - I use the terms "harsh" and "glare" when I go into some of the rooms. There was one room that was packed to the hallway with a bunch of people that were all nodding and smiling while listening to some SRV. I only went in to see these small speakers with some unknown form of drivers with metallic screens over them giving the appearance of olg guitar amps from the 50's and 60's.

I couldn't handle the sound at all.

Different strokes for different folks.........

I think I'm at the point where I only want to hear specific things that I'm interested in for myself, or sound that is, at least in some respect, better than what I have at home. It's tough to just walk into every room and give it a shot.
 :dunno:

I am finding some new music (using Shazam to identify). I tagged one piece twice, so I'll have to check it out ("My Name" by Lhasa De Sela).

.....also noticing Diana Krall. Again. A lot.  :thumbdown: - just gets too much play at these things and I get a bit burned out.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 1 Jun 2013, 02:06 pm
John, be sure you introduce yourself when you stop by the Vapor Audio/Empirical Audio/Arte Forma Audio room (206 Atrium).  We promise, no Krall.   :D
 
We got to meet the San Diego Audiophile group who had us up for wine after they stopped by for repeated listening sessions on Friday.  Nice bunch of guys for sure.  Came back for some after hours listening, which is always good, especially with a nice red wine in hand.  Thanks guys.  We're loving the SoCal vibe at the show.   :thumb:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 1 Jun 2013, 04:52 pm
I'm eating breakfast right now outside at the Atrium.  Beautiful weather here.  back to the room now, back to work.....

BTW those Vapor speakers are unbelievable.  No EQ needed there.  Bass rolls across the floor and takes you by surprise.  Deep too.  No problems playing
flight of the Cosmic Hippo.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SteveFord on 1 Jun 2013, 05:05 pm
If anyone has a chance could they swing by the deHavilland room? 
I'd go myself but I'm on the other coast.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 2 Jun 2013, 01:00 pm
The DeHavilland room with Sonist speakers

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81574)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81575)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81576)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81577)
Beautiful hardwood speakers in the room

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81578)
And a very goog looking turntable

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81579)
Didn't really get a chance to do much serious listening here.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:08 pm
T.H.E. Show 2013  :thumb: :thumb:  Walk through with me, but the usual caveats, "show-conditions," etc all apply.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7416/8920912592_0a47541009_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920912592/)
EOSD3155 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920912592/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Dynaudio speakers doing what they do best, filling the large room with big and effortless sound. Rather huge T&A electronics helping here with the cause.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/8920295437_6ec01d1c2a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920295437/)
EOSD3159 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920295437/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7333/8920294069_4b2a4b2d52_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920294069/)
EOSD3161 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920294069/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7440/8920908568_5863c5593e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920908568/)
EOSD3162 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920908568/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7328/8920291423_9eef91cb65_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920291423/)
EOSD3162a (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920291423/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Elac speakers driven by lovely Burmester amp, wired up by Wireworld.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2889/8920289041_fb6e702b8f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920289041/)
EOSD3162b (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920289041/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Woody Audeze headphones found in quite a few places.  Headphones in general were alive and well throughout the show in various different places.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2870/8920287581_2486fed978_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920287581/)
EOSD3164 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920287581/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

When one walks into a room and the whole room is pitch-dark, one knows it's a "home theater" room.  The usual names in HT Oppo, Parasound hiding on the side.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7390/8920902486_791ee776c9_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920902486/)
EOSD3165 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920902486/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/8920285289_77cdd8f329_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920285289/)
EOSD3166 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920285289/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

All sort of big headphones being driven by tiny little media player.  Luscious Final headphones and in-ears showing with

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5467/8920899534_21415ccb1f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920899534/)
EOSD3167 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920899534/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3810/8920283213_e02a632c58_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920283213/)
EOSD3169 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920283213/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Astell & Kern AK120 media player

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8409/8920281909_99292f81df_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920281909/)
EOSD3170 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920281909/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Final in-ear 'phones of all types, sure to fit everyone's needs.  The tiny media player fron Korea was explained to have more power, enough to drive the big headphones, and different models have difference output impedance to optimize different headphones.  Comes with 32 GB or 62 GB internally, but with expandable slots.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2862/8920895620_87a398710e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920895620/)
EOSD3171 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920895620/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr
Astell & Kern  AK100 media player

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5453/8920277733_811aafbe1d_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920277733/)
EOSD3173 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920277733/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2869/8920894280_ea7130e2b3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920894280/)
EOSD3172 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920894280/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The very popular Magico room, sonically.  Also a photographer's nightmare, with pitch-black speakers perched in pitch-dark room, blasted by harsh small spotlights.  Huge electronics had iron-clad grip on these Magico speakers, with incredible detail resolution and definition throughtout the ranges, especially with big, crisp bass attacks.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/8920276881_f8eaaa699d_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920276881/)
EOSD3174 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920276881/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5350/8920891678_4d46f4114a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920891678/)
EOSD3177 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920891678/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Audio Element room, which sported a rich, "analogue" like midrange and warm presentation, somewhat contrasting the Magico room.  Ayre electronics had lovely power over the ever-lovely Sonus Faber speakers.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7412/8920889556_5f7450d0a3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920889556/)
EOSD3178 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920889556/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/8920272555_f870f5a97b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920272555/)
EOSD3179 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920272555/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Aesthetix Rhea phonostage in the room.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8119/8920886886_9094b2eed6_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920886886/)
EOSD3180 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920886886/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Quite a fiew rooms were showing off the Ayre QB-9 USB DAC including this one.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/8920885374_df808f979e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920885374/)
EOSD3181 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920885374/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr








Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:09 pm
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8554/8920884366_1879b7fb21_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920884366/)
EOSD3182 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920884366/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

A different Audio Element room with big VTL monoblocks and Sonus Faber Amati Futura speakers, with black finish instead of the usual Sonus Faber wooden look.  The FULL DCS digital stack was dominating the room visually as well as sonically.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3740/8920882030_c956d196ed_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920882030/)
EOSD3184 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920882030/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3744/8920265563_9060ddf9b6_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920265563/)
EOSD3185 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920265563/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5460/8920879342_02da3af054_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920879342/)
EOSD3186 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920879342/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

DCS transport, DAC, upsampler, clock, all arranged to enable comparing sound quality from disc, USB, and Network (NAS). MacBook Pro was handling the computer side of things.  Obviously, these types of comparisons are dependent on many factors including software, implementation of each connection method, cables, etc.  In this room, the physical disc had the most obvious vividness, bass authority, and that familiar perfect-sound-forever mien, but the network connection fought back with a smoother, more analogue type of presentation while not yielding too much on the detail front.  The USB input didn't really impress in direct comparison, but I would bet a USB guru could turn that around with some tweaking.  In this room, the USB input sounded somewhat dull with less bass foundation. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/8920262397_56f8eae30a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920262397/)
EOSD3187 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920262397/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3764/8920876330_91b54df11f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920876330/)
EOSD3188 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920876330/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

VTL integrated amp with speaker output in back and headphone output in front.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7316/8920259391_e28158143a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920259391/)
EOSD3191 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920259391/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Einstein electronics are always looking majestic.  I wish more gear looked like these.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8399/8920257285_a79878fe7b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920257285/)
EOSD3195 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920257285/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5466/8920255911_4d7807a39e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920255911/)
EOSD3197 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920255911/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Wavetouch speakers.  These sported funky "waveguides" with what looks to be Pinocchio's nose in front of drivers.  I heard very crisp and defined highs, and voila, it turns out they use the inimitable AMT tweeters.  The room didn't sport SOTA type of gear at all, using an Oppo 95 into a Scott Nixon DAC.  The cute monitors were making real music at only $2K a pair. 

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/8920254163_5158ba695b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920254163/)
EOSD3198 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920254163/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3719/8920867016_d10262bae4_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920867016/)
EOSD3199 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920867016/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

One-eyed Pinocchio?

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/8920865716_093eeeed3a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920865716/)
EOSD3200 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920865716/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Wall full of Cabasse speakers of various ilk.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/8920864142_38896648bd_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920864142/)
EOSD3201 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920864142/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

With Teac desk-top system.  Wish I had that for my college years..

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7338/8920247039_84466c561b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920247039/)
EOSD3203 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920247039/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Esoteric and Cabasse main room sure looked impressive.  I couldn't help but wonder how many Esoterics I would need to add before the equipment rack collapsed.  Jokes aside, I thought the eyeballs (ehem, "Spheres") with the hidden subwoofers sounded more successful than the traditional boxed type.  The impressive Esoteric K-01 CDP with AKM 32-bit DAC chips once again made people's wish list.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8543/8920244517_a34f30fc2c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920244517/)
EOSD3206 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920244517/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

See what I mean?

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/8920242931_d3177e9287_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920242931/)
EOSD3207 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920242931/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

We are watching YOU!


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7452/8920857130_f72a3740a2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920857130/)
EOSD3209 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920857130/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Teresonic Ingenium speakers.  Fabulous cabinetry and finish with sound quality that kind of mimics the look, warm and inviting.  The small speaker on the floor, which I initially thought was a small subwoofer, turned out to be Teresonic Magus speakers.  They are supposed to look like this on stands.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2842/8942404473_f786ece69f.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8942404473/)
Magus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8942404473/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/8920240611_b19a2b7afa_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920240611/)
EOSD3212 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920240611/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/8920853656_ef94a88121_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920853656/)
EOSD3215 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920853656/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Melody Valve gear with Angel City Audio Trinity speakers presented some tremendous value.  The speakers cost around $3K a pair, which had a great performance-to-price ratio.  The Melody MN845 monoblocks were glowing with that red glow only a quad of 845 tubes can provide.

 
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8129/8920855128_e2577bf2b7_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920855128/)
EOSD3214 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920855128/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8118/8920851652_1e792cb15c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920851652/)
EOSD3220 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920851652/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

More Melody goodness.











Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:10 pm
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/8920233431_53cefe4991_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920233431/)
EOSD3224 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920233431/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

MSB Technology with YG Acoustics speakers, which are machined out of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with ultra clean sound.  MSB Tech is one of the few companies that are using their own DAC technology, with their discrete 24-bit ladder DAC modules.  Delicious stuff.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3728/8920847440_b4ef1e8c8b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920847440/)
EOSD3225 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920847440/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8412/8920230359_0b83314c5c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920230359/)
EOSD3226 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920230359/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

MSB transport, connected to MSB DAC's via their proprietary MSB Link. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3792/8920229157_23e971fe88_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920229157/)
EOSD3227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920229157/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The star of the room was the new MSB Tech "Analogue" DAC, which is their "entry-level" (?) DAC at $6995 featuring a large portion of technology from their Platinum/Diamond line of DAC's.  Whatever they are doing, the room sounded mighty rich, detailed, and "centered."
 

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7292/8920843532_85f39a9fc8_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920843532/)
EOSD3229 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920843532/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Concert Fidelity/ Onda Systems room featuring TAD Reference One speakers.  Not a small speaker system by any means, but the huge room made them appear small.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7404/8920841816_d86b4b7601_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920841816/)
EOSD3230 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920841816/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7373/8920224695_4a655370b3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920224695/)
EOSD3231 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920224695/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

This BSG Technologies room was perhaps one of the most interesting rooms at the show.  The second from top component is the qøl™ processor.  I am not even sure how to pronounce that word, but it certainly made a huge sonic difference in and out of the audio loop.  I still am not sure what's inside, but in this age of SOTA digital processing, qøl™ is an analogue processor that, using their wording, captures "all the dynamic, tonal, and spatial content of a real sonic event."  Upon further inquiry, I am gathering it is some sort of device that works with the correct (enhance?) phase of things. 

Even though the device's gain is zero, when engaged, the system volume seemed louder, due to whatever it was doing correctly per their explanation.  When volume was matched during the demo, I still sensed a lot more immediacy, vividness, and a sense of a veil or two lifted.  This is definitely a product worth keeping an eye on. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/8920222365_e28f0a4a75_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920222365/)
EOSD3233 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920222365/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

YG Acoustics room with Tenor amplification.  Gorgeous gear with sound to match.  I mean, this stuff is really lovely in looks and sound, and these guys know how to set up a room properly.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/8920835218_5ae2c10858_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920835218/)
EOSD3236 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920835218/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/8920217565_e619c90a16_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920217565/)
EOSD3237 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920217565/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Audio Research and Vandersteen 7 speakers, which is a 170 pound behemouth with actively-powered bass amp inside.  I'm not too sure about the blue color, but the sound quality was certainly representative of what Vandersteen can do when not trying to be budget-minded. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3791/8920830104_dcc21aa59e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920830104/)
EOSD3238 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920830104/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Really love gear in this ARC room.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8403/8920827482_7179920a59_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920827482/)
EOSD3239 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920827482/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8254/8920210677_0a8024a337_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920210677/)
EOSD3241 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920210677/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/8920208749_c435f1eeb7_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920208749/)
EOSD3243 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920208749/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Vandersteen Carbon Quatro speakers powered by Audio Research Integrated tube amp.  What's interesting was the source being a tiny $250 USB DAC the Dragonfly.


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7348/8920206259_b74b4fb1e9_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920206259/)
EOSD3244 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920206259/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Silverline Sonatina IV speakers ($6000) powered by the respected BEL amplifier.  Silverline speakers sometimes fly under the radar of shoppers, but these speakers had a clear, rich, involving sound with lots of ambience.  The BEL amplification certainly had a part in the overall sound as well.  The fact they are easy-to-drive 91 dB/ 8 Ohms is a bonus for those of us with moderate wattage.


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3808/8920819616_7da73fa9c8_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920819616/)
EOSD3245 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920819616/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Lots of cool lights in this McIntosh room.  It's not like anyone can mistaken this room for anything else, but the speakers seemed rather conventional, compared to the wide McIntosh speakers with a few dozen drivers in past.


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3725/8920201407_cb3d7b98cf_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920201407/)
EOSD3247 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920201407/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Von Schweikert Audio room featuring their smaller UniField 2 speakers.  For a speaker with 7 inch bass driver in a bookshelf cabinet, it had great bass prowess along with nice build quality.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2861/8920198975_573d45b772_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920198975/)
EOSD3248 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920198975/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7349/8920813344_6f696a451b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920813344/)
EOSD3249 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920813344/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Hmm, who could THAT be dancing on the screen?


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2872/8920195733_abb27a6fa4_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920195733/)
EOSD3251 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920195733/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

This Pioneer room blew away people's minds, mainly due to the $129/pair Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers by the esteemed Andrew Jones of TAD fame.  The speakers were rather well-placed, but even driven by consumer-grade Pioneer electronics, the room had clarity, neutrality, and great bass power, especially considering the 4 inch bass driver!  Sure, things may not be refined to the Nth degree, but music was alive and enjoyable, which is what matters.  I see Best Buy has them on sale for $99/pair, so people need to be running to buy a pair, or six. 

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2826/8920193799_49afda38fc_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920193799/)
EOSD3252 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920193799/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr








Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:10 pm
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3779/8920192331_99faa471d1_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920192331/)
EOSD3254 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920192331/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Totem Acoustics room with Totem Element Metal speakers.  In the olden days, possibly due to the conventional appearance, Totem name didn't exactly elicit excitment to many.  The new Element Metal line changes things with the modern design, colors, and most of all, the high-tech 7 inch drivers run without any crossovers on the woofers.  These speakers powered by MBL amps just rocked the room with huge bass dynamics for the cabinet size.  One wouldn't think of "Totem" upon first glance, but the unique beak feet give them away eventually.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8118/8920190101_6cf9cf7d73_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920190101/)
EOSD3255 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920190101/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2841/8920189233_bab9ee524a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920189233/)
EOSD3256 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920189233/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/8920187797_f55984ff8f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920187797/)
EOSD3257 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920187797/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The more traditional Totems in the back of the room.  One does not see MBL electronics used with non-MBL speakers often, but here they are, powering Totems, even matching them in color.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/8920185497_259116b9e2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920185497/)
EOSD3258 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920185497/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2813/8920184149_aa277dac5b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920184149/)
EOSD3260 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920184149/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Another dark HT room with huge TV, looking mighty crisp I must say.


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3771/8920182199_33327ae4bb_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920182199/)
EOSD3261 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920182199/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The main TAD room.  Their speakers simply feel and sound like Mount Rushmore, so solid is the sound foundations. 

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/8920180753_72c0e9a063_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920180753/)
EOSD3262 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920180753/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Smaller, yet still large, TAD speakers on display.  Again, so solidly constructed.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5343/8920794930_73e18f5079_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920794930/)
EOSD3263 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920794930/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8545/8920790948_484767e3a4_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920790948/)
EOSD3265 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920790948/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Lawrence Audio Speakers.  There were rather interesting-looking bunch of speakers with the Cello model here with Air Motion Tweeters in front and rear-firing ribbon tweeters. A full complement of Jeff Rowland amplification and DAC was powering these unique-appearing speakers.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3797/8920177035_cf77599d97_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920177035/)
EOSD3264 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920177035/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Beautiful craftsmanship indeed.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5461/8920172221_cab2162341_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920172221/)
EOSD3266 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920172221/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8115/8920170407_0ac6e960c3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920170407/)
EOSD3268 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920170407/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

There were several rooms featuring the new Jeff Rowland Aeris DAC, which comes with USB, toslink, and spdif inputs.  If only Rowland gear was more affordable..


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3803/8920168693_0f670aa30b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920168693/)
EOSD3270 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920168693/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Wyred 4 Sound room featuring all W4S electronics, DAC and what looks like Paradigm Signature S8  speakers, which are 6-driver, 3-way design. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3746/8920166701_d2be9353ce_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920166701/)
EOSD3271 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920166701/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

W4S independence, except for speakers.


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8417/8920164959_054ae87bc8_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920164959/)
EOSD3273 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920164959/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Emerald Physics room with CS 2.3 Mk II speakers which are $5950 with active DSP included, not a bad price for a 3-way, 4 driver, bi-amped dipole speaker.  They certainly have that dipole sound and room integration, but I do wish Emerald Physics would have easier-to-remember, catchier names.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3689/8920778326_9371c41ab2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920778326/)
EOSD3274 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920778326/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Yup, that's dipole to the max. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3794/8920160443_eb39f63600_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920160443/)
EOSD3275 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920160443/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The CS2P speakers.  See what I mean by needing catchier names?




 




Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:10 pm
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/8920774882_bf73012104_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920774882/)
EOSD3276 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920774882/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Cake Audio Room was one of my favorite rooms at the show, a lot of it owing to the incredible Rockport Technologies Atria speakers, which at $21,500/pair is not too bad for a Rockport.  They utilize Rockport's new carbon-fiber sandwich-composite midrange drivers and woofer, as well as beryllium-dome tweeters, all housed in granite-like cabinets.  Often, high-tech drivers and cabinets can end up sounding too high-fi and dry, but the Atria sounded sumptuous, rich, detailed, while sounding precise at the same time.  The huge Balanced Audio Tech solid-state amplifier must sound very good as well, as the system sounded like tubes with tube vividness and liveliness without the mush. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3737/8920772190_5c31baab2a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920772190/)
EOSD3277 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920772190/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5461/8920154263_a5a0a9bf7e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920154263/)
EOSD3278 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920154263/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8920767426_40b28e5285_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920767426/)
EOSD3279 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920767426/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2832/8920765616_353d3ef4bc_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920765616/)
EOSD3280 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920765616/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

KT Audio Imports room with glistening Eventus Audio Phobos speakers.  They weren't the only things glowing as the TriangleART turntables were simply breath-taking.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3699/8920763776_cfbd6381bd_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920763776/)
EOSD3281 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920763776/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5441/8920145341_6ca30f5c22_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920145341/)
EOSD3284 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920145341/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5335/8920143313_fc4506c4d9_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920143313/)
EOSD3285 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920143313/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

True vinyl-lover's dream.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3822/8920758176_36a0894538_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920758176/)
EOSD3286 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920758176/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

And the NAT Audio Magma Limited Edition single-ended class-A 160 watt amp featuring the sexy 450 TH radio-emitter tube.  Incredible stuff.


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5459/8920756448_6bae3c7999_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920756448/)
EOSD3287 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920756448/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

WyWires room with TAD speakers and VAC stereo amp. 


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3784/8920754186_73656809e3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920754186/)
EOSD3288 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920754186/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Brooks Berdan room with Spendor A9 speakers ($7995) and very French Jadis electronics.  I have not heard amusical Spendors in my life, and these speakers were also sounding mighty musical and involving, although not exactly a looker.  Jadis preamps and amps are legendary, and the overall sound in here had a delicacy and refinement tube afacionados know and love.


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7326/8920132857_8f2df1d68d_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920132857/)
EOSD3291 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920132857/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

King Sound Prince III electrostat speakers.  I love electrostats and welcome any new 'stats, but unfortunately, they are notoriously difficult to set up in rooms, and this room sounded like a little more tuning was in order, e.g. some room enforcements in lower ranges was missed.


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7414/8920745252_b530a7018a_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920745252/)
EOSD3293 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920745252/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

PBN room with simply Herculean speakers dominating the room, as well as huge PBN monoblocks.  This type of situation makes it difficult to evaluate the speakers without the room interaction, but PBN speakers always seem to offer a nice value for what one gets.  A whole rack full of PBN electronics were manning the bathroom door here.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3688/8920747042_1900da9a87_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920747042/)
EOSD3292 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920747042/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/8920740318_055348b41f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920740318/)
EOSD3294 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920740318/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Opera speakers.  I noticed a Unico CDP hiding in the corner in this room. 


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3675/8920121393_9a474b9fa3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920121393/)
EOSD3295 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920121393/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Quintessence Audio MX speakers in this room were also rather large, but the sound somehow integrated pretty well in the room.  PBN amplification was handling these beasts with aplomb, especially in creating a nice groove and rhythm, along with rich harmonics.  Really nice-sounding room.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3738/8920119681_f1435e2152_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920119681/)
EOSD3296 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920119681/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/8920734262_c7d8460c7b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920734262/)
EOSD3297 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920734262/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

I noticed several rooms using the AMR CDP, including this Quintessence room, and basically all of them sounded great.  Coincidence?

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3688/8920732500_78c7cec1ed_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920732500/)
EOSD3298 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920732500/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/8920730996_51486ba501_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920730996/)
EOSD3299 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920730996/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Room featuring ZenSati line of cables. 


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8920728658_d89971eb6f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920728658/)
EOSD3300 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920728658/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Studio Electric Monitor loudspeakers.  What little I heard in short time sounded very nice and modern, especially given the retro look of these speakers.  Benchmark DAC2 HGC sourcing the music.


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8130/8920109113_3924b34f23_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920109113/)
EOSD3302 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920109113/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Chapman Audio T-7 speakers with Cary 306 SACD player and Cary tube amps.  I can't say I love the look of these loudspeakers, but the overall sound was very organic, flowing, and delicate. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/8920723118_0210c44cf1_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920723118/)
EOSD3304 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920723118/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Cary.  Very nice.


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5346/8920105107_51f37e8b1d_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920105107/)
EOSD3306 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920105107/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

NuForce room with Angel City Audio Trinity speakers, same speakers featured in the Melody Audio room.  Oppo transport into NuForce DAC9, all into NuForce amplification.  Personally, I prefer the look with the grill off though.

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7288/8920720016_733737752c_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920720016/)
EOSD3307 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920720016/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr



(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/8920717956_490f8b79b8_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920717956/)
EOSD3308 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920717956/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Linn Audio Loudspeakers, not to be confused with Linn UK.  This model is the New Athenaum, featuring a compression driver horn-loaded to a rather low crossover point.  Sourced by bone-stock Sony 5400 player into Pass XA100.5 monoblocks, these speakers had incredibly airy and smooth high/mids.  Those who fancy a two-way with compression driver and woofer won't be able to do much better than these. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3702/8920099833_5e717e0a9f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920099833/)
EOSD3309 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920099833/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

These are some sweet amps I must say.








 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:11 pm
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2892/8920714814_3f8e3380dc_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920714814/)
EOSD3310 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920714814/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Onda Ligera room with Onda Ligera WAVE 168D loudspeakers and Onda Ligera amplification.  This is a formidable design with top cabinet contructed out of aluminum and the bass module with special bass loading utilizing two 8 inch drivers facing each other inside. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5349/8920712768_f858b6cde6_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920712768/)
EOSD3312 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920712768/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Not sure if it's due to the special bass loading, but I noticed trendous bass drive and natural bounce in this room.  I hate bass that is robot-tight and over-damped, lacking natural web-and-flow.  This system had bassline that was bouncy and natural yet with great pitch.  Very nice.


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8397/8920094797_e9c6e590a3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920094797/)
EOSD3313 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920094797/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Wilson Audio Sophia III speakers with Ayre QB-9 DAC and integrated amp.  Wilson certainly has changed its core sound character completely since the days of Watt 3/Puppy 2, now with most of their speakers sounding quite smooth, refined, and dare-I-say warm.  The ubiquitous Ayre electronics really seem to bring out speakers' potential as well, walking the fine balance between warmth and resolution. 


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7306/8920092757_18ce3ec1dc_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920092757/)
EOSD3315 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920092757/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Martin Logan room with the Montis speaker, which comes in below the Summit X at $9,995.  I did not see the huge CLX 'stats this year, and in many ways, the smaller Logans do these rooms more justice.  The Herron electronics nicely fleshed out the tones while retaining the ethereal beauty of 'stat panels.  Many people in past have been turned off by old Logan hybrids due to the bass discontinuity, but their recent offerings have really minimized that effect to the point where I could personally own a pair without much complaint. 

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/8920707298_b8c4ed47e7_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920707298/)
EOSD3316 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920707298/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2879/8920088387_2cc5a91954_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920088387/)
EOSD3317 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920088387/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Headphones scattered about.


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3833/8920086571_74e795eedc_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920086571/)
EOSD3318 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920086571/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

More gear I simply did not get to give a good listen.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3756/8920700878_70fca292f7_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920700878/)
EOSD3319 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920700878/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8411/8920083179_9a7775aa42_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920083179/)
EOSD3322 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920083179/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Von Gaylord room.  Their new entry-level speaker VG-8 using a titanium tweeter and fiberglass woofer, more affordable at $3500 compared to $13K the Legend commands, yet offering a healthy dose of the big brother's sound quality.  An old Marantz CD73 was acting as transport into Von Gaylord's own DAC.


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5454/8920697468_d918266911_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920697468/)
EOSD3324 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920697468/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Evolution Acoustics MMMicroOne mini-monitors (around $2500) powered by Playback Designs' new IPS-3 (Integrated Playback System 3), which houses DAC/preamp/amp in one chassis.  These mini-monitors simply disappeared from the room, leaving just you and the performer.  People say this about a lot of small speakers, but these really disappear; and the uncluttered convenience of the one-box Playback Designs unit helped to make for a very simple, clean, great-sounding system. 

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2824/8920079501_b7a2dce6e2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920079501/)
EOSD3326 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920079501/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Yup, they are 4 inch bass drivers in there. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5331/8920693922_4bef78a2d6_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920693922/)
EOSD3327 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920693922/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

IPS-3 even offers USB input, so you can do laptop to IPS-3 to speakers.  Done.


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2809/8920076319_355805cc20_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920076319/)
EOSD3329 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920076319/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Fritz Rev 7 Towers in play here with Atmasphere preamp.  I could not make out which monoblocks were playing at the moment, but there was an Atmasphere amp in front as well. 


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3772/8920690240_30ac6d8a1e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920690240/)
EOSD3330 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920690240/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Music First room featuring Audio Note AN-E Lexus HE speakers.  Many people look at an Audio Note speaker, look at the price tag, and inevitably ask, "Why does it cost so much?"  There are some explanations as to what goes into these speakers on the AN website, etc, but honestly, one look at these plain-Jane speakers doesn't inspire too much confidence.  To make it worse, the 300B SET amp planned to be used was having issues, so the plain Music Reference RM 10 amp with lowly EL84 tube (gulp!) was powering them.  When playing power music, I still did not feel good about the price, especially with so many speaker options out there, many of them present in this very building.  Then somebody hung a reel-to-reel tape of some very nice concerto, and I "got it" suddenly.  In the heart of midrange, there was just simply music.  There suddenly was no need to analyze this and that aspect of the musical reproduction, as I simply felt I was listening to the musician directly. 

Oh, well, this system will not outshine others when it comes to many types of music or source, but if you dig the type of music and sound it presents so well, then the price would only be a number.  Darn!

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7304/8920071785_4317d8f53b_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920071785/)
EOSD3331 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920071785/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8266/8920069199_7358d8a99f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920069199/)
EOSD3332 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920069199/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

My perennial favorite, Sander Sound room.  The associated gear does not change year-to-year, and the sound was as clean, immaculate, refined, direct, and simply beautiful.  Sanders 10C electrostat with the digital crossover still remains one of the very finest speakers one can own, at any price.  This time, though, having listened to the Audio Note speakers with the right music, and even the ludicrous-appearing Voxative Ampeggio Due speakers with the right music, I do wish Sanders had that super-extra, ridiculously-outrageous, well, soul.  Then again, Sanders will play way more variety of music with aplomb, so this is why we are all here always seeking.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5347/8920066097_10c403203f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920066097/)
EOSD3334 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920066097/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Sanders Sound amplifier.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8124/8920679880_4b7b1755c0_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920679880/)
EOSD3335 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920679880/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Same gear always.

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5458/8920676928_c4cab5b5a6_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920676928/)
EOSD3338 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920676928/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr



(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/8920059299_a2cebd9186_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920059299/)
EOSD3339 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920059299/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


More rooms unable to give a good listen to.


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/8920057917_881d58b1fd_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920057917/)
EOSD3341 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920057917/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3747/8920671306_0c7cec0a16_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920671306/)
EOSD3342 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920671306/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Reite Audio electronics and Silverline speakers.  The tall and skinny Silverline Prelude Plus speakers were making unusually authoritative music here, no doubt aided by the impressive Reite Audio gear.  In fact, the $2000 Silverlines once again appeared to be value champs in this price range, with very good clarity and bass for size.  Add a small 8 inch subwoofer or two, and one could have a very full-range goodness here.


(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2841/8920052429_00d34834ff_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920052429/)
EOSD3344 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920052429/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Home theater with Emotiva speakers.



Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:11 pm

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7407/8920666692_a82bfdc583_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920666692/)
EOSD3345 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920666692/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

ATC 100 active loudspeakers driven by Antelope Audio Zodiac Gold DAC with Voltikus power supply. ATC makes some great speakers, and the active versions really cutting down on clutter.  It's surprising not more people own them. 

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/8920664928_7d2bd1b838_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920664928/)
EOSD3346 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920664928/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Antelope Audio Rubicon AD/DA Preamplifier. 


(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5456/8920663266_454f0536ff_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920663266/)
EOSD3349 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920663266/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

KEF room with R900 speakers really caught me by surprise.  KEF was showing their high-tech Blade speakers last year, which costs a lot more than R900, but R900 has trickle-down technology, especially the sweet Uni-Q tweeter/midrange coaxial, coincident array.  Powered by Chord electronics and Chord USB DAC, they presented clear, vivid, solid sounds with appropriate warmth and texture.  More importantly, the familiar male and female vocals did not exhibit strange colorations or anomalies, just neutral, strong reach-out quality.  These retail for around $5K, and it's amazing how much speaker one can get for that price range these days compared to just 5-6 years ago.  Bravo, KEF.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8547/8920045363_79acdd8718_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920045363/)
EOSD3350 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920045363/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Smaller KEF LS50 speakers with Parasound setup.  Again, given the size of speakers, some good tunes were coming out this setup, helped by the Parasound Z-DAC USB DAC hiding in the rack.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3790/8920658974_80c297ba46_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920658974/)
EOSD3353 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920658974/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5336/8920657190_eb668bce83_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920657190/)
EOSD3354 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920657190/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7360/8920039961_6cf461ec5f_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920039961/)
EOSD3355 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920039961/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Janszen Loudspeakers


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/8920652524_774b7a3e74_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920652524/)
EOSD3358 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920652524/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Crazy Voxativ Ampeggio Due speakers.  These are around $100K, seeming like an even worse value proposition than Audio Note speakers.  Powered by the equally-crazy looking KR audio Kronzilla SX amplifier, this system produced the male voice like I have never heard before.  In an ideal world, I might use the Sanders 'stat for female voices, Audio Note for chamber music, Voxativ for male vocals, MBL for parties or dynamic music, etc, but here we are. 

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/8920650656_cf05ca99d1_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920650656/)
EOSD3359 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920650656/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3677/8920033199_bec37edfdb_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920033199/)
EOSD3360 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920033199/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8271/8920031209_a8e6837877_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920031209/)
EOSD3361 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920031209/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

ESS Labs speakers utilizing the AMT technology. 


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3689/8920645804_db41d7f441_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920645804/)
EOSD3363 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920645804/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8411/8920026595_28d454f264_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920026595/)
EOSD3364 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920026595/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr


(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3821/8920024765_76304f9cee_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920024765/)
EOSD3365 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920024765/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

The inevitable MBL room, which always rocks like no one else.  Simply immaculate MBL electronics to speakers, set up well to show off the Radialstrahler technology.  As a bonus, reel-to-reel tape was spinning with a vengeance, simply propulsing the music like a rocket on steroids.  Beautiful stuff if one can afford it. 

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3815/8920022471_6b3f10a6e2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920022471/)
EOSD3367 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920022471/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr








Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 2 Jun 2013, 02:11 pm
 :D
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SteveFord on 2 Jun 2013, 02:28 pm
Thanks for posting the deHavilland room, I wish I could give it a listen.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: EdRo on 2 Jun 2013, 04:33 pm
Anyone have a listen/pics of the Vapor room? Whats the report? :scratch: :P
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: neekomax on 2 Jun 2013, 07:57 pm
Any photos/word on the Spatial Computer Trilogies?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: santacore on 2 Jun 2013, 09:17 pm
Any photos/word on the Spatial Computer Trilogies?

I spent a fair amount of time talking to Clayton and checking them out. He was wonderful to talk to, and overall they seemed like a great speaker for the price. More then 1 person came into the room while I was there and declared the T2's the best speaker they had heard at the event for the money. To my ears, they had a linear sound (his design goal). Although not completely OB, they reminded me of other OB speakers I've heard. Big and open sounding, but with less precision pinpoint imaging then box speakers. Instruments were very natural and balanced, but just didn't have such a precise point source to their delivery. Bass was ample, but a bit boomy in the untreated hotel room. Clayton had a very spartan setup, iTunes playing redbook , USB out to Prism DAC, direct to a Spatial class D amp, then right to the speakers. I believe the room was empty with the exception of some chairs.

The speakers are physically large, but very nice looking. I think if I had a bigger room, with more space around the speaker position I probably would have ordered a pair.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: neekomax on 2 Jun 2013, 11:40 pm
I spent a fair amount of time talking to Clayton and checking them out. He was wonderful to talk to, and overall they seemed like a great speaker for the price. More then 1 person came into the room while I was there and declared the T2's the best speaker they had heard at the event for the money. To my ears, they had a linear sound (his design goal). Although not completely OB, they reminded me of other OB speakers I've heard. Big and open sounding, but with less precision pinpoint imaging then box speakers. Instruments were very natural and balanced, but just didn't have such a precise point source to their delivery. Bass was ample, but a bit boomy in the untreated hotel room. Clayton had a very spartan setup, iTunes playing redbook , USB out to Prism DAC, direct to a Spatial class D amp, then right to the speakers. I believe the room was empty with the exception of some chairs.

The speakers are physically large, but very nice looking. I think if I had a bigger room, with more space around the speaker position I probably would have ordered a pair.

Thanks!  :thumb:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 05:20 pm
Yeah!

Thank You to all of the Vendors that made this show a winner!

Our team from the Bay Area was on the scene with clean ears and a healthy attitude. 

Some came by car, Some came by plane but the truth was we got there and had a great time. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81634)

Here is my crew.  Sure they look quite normal.  But when it comes to listening to a room and making the most of it these two are hards as nails.   Sunil (Soundofrockets) and Cliff (Shotoons).   Imma warn you now.  If you are clogging the best seats in the room potificating about the air around your ochestrial quiet passage you could get shanked.   They are not afraid to choke a bitch out of the sweet spot. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81635)

We saw the good the bad and the ugly.  We think that concentrating on the best of the show in our opinion would be the best approach. 

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Afterimage on 3 Jun 2013, 05:29 pm
How about the Elac speakers with the Burmester amp, how did that room sound?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 06:06 pm

Room Management and Sound

Of course TAD won the day the week the month and the year.  Andrew is the consumate audio gentleman.   He gives you a taste of music and like any good purveyer of sound, then takes it away leaving you wanting for more.  He tells you what you are going to hear, plays the cut and asks if you heard it.  If more of the rooms conducted thier business moving through a concise playlist efficiently the guys in my crew wouldn't be sporting brass knuckles and wearing boots.  Thanks Andrew it was a pleasure to get a quality demontration and if we all had the money we would opt for the TAD premium performance.  The TAD experience was so comfortable we even got some time to close our eyes and relax.  It was like being at home. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 3 Jun 2013, 06:33 pm
Anyone have a listen/pics of the Vapor room? Whats the report? :scratch: :P

There's a picture here:

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/the_show_newport_2013/saturday/
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 3 Jun 2013, 06:40 pm
Room Management and Sound

Of course TAD won the day the week the month and the year.  Andrew is the consumate audio gentleman.   He gives you a taste of music and like any good purveyer of sound, then takes it away leaving you wanting for more.  He tells you what you are going to hear, plays the cut and asks if you heard it.  If more of the rooms conducted thier business moving through a concise playlist efficiently the guys in my crew wouldn't be sporting brass knuckles and wearing boots.  Thanks Andrew it was a pleasure to get a quality demontration and if we all had the money we would opt for the TAD premium performance.  The TAD experience was so comfortable we even got some time to close our eyes and relax.  It was like being at home.
This and more  :thumb:

I could spend all day listening to the big TAD's this year - last year they seemed to overpower the (I believe same) room. Not so this year. There was just something very right about the sound beingproduced by this system. Even sitting way off to the side the tone from every instrument in every piece was very relaxing and natural, regardless of the volume. There were other notable rooms, but this was my favorite. The Lawrence speakers were very nice and I liked the new Emerald Physics a great deal (they seemed familiar somehow.... :scratch: :green:) They were using the AntiMode 2.0 and were producing some of the best Bass at the show. For the price a ridiculous deal. The MMG's seem like a steal at the dollar price point, but I would have liked to hear different music. I think Vapor needed a bigger room. Never could get the smaller Magico's to sound right. The big Magicos were pretty good, but probably in too big of a room.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 06:58 pm
Best Vendor Demonstration
The salesman in the room went above and beyond to give us a demo on what most of us consider to be snakeoil.  Synergistic Research Bass Station.  We have all seen the small room tuning cups.  I don't remember the name of the room sponsor we were in.  One of our group, who will remain nameless, asked if you can drink sigle malted scotch out of the room tuning cups.  A discussion began about thier effectiveness. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81637)

A discussion ensued.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81638)

Right in the middle of a busy event our hero posted a person outside the door to stop traffic, and clear defined for us how well this product worked.  He played a cut of music for us and asked us to pay attention to the sound in the rear of the room.   He paused the music and removed the tuning cups from all three of the positions in the back of the room.   He resumed the music.   Much of the ambient goodness in the rear of the room went away.   He stopped the music again.  When he replaced the cups the goodness returned.   Was it a mass hypnotic trick?   We all agreed on what we heard.  The room clearly had more depth and musical spaciousness with the cups employed.  Without the cups it sounded like we were all sitting too close to the back wall, which were were.and were putting up with that reflective nastiness.  The unknown salesman changed the music to some bass heavy Stevie Ray Vaugn.  We listened and got comfortable with the piece.  He paused and removed the tuning cups directly in front of the woofers of the Wilson speakers we were listening to.  When the music started the bass was as woolly as gradmas sweater.    When the music started a third time with the cups in place the bass tightenup and was articulate and firm again. 

Congradulations this vendor was taking a demonstration to the next level.

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 07:18 pm
This and more  :thumb:

I could spend all day listening to the big TAD's this year - last year they seemed to overpower the (I believe same) room. Not so this year. There was just something very right about the sound beingproduced by this system. Even sitting way off to the side the tone from every instrument in every piece was very relaxing and natural, regardless of the volume. There were other notable rooms, but this was my favorite. The Lawrence speakers were very nice and I liked the new Emerald Physics a great deal (they seemed familiar somehow.... :scratch: :green:) They were using the AntiMode 2.0 and were producing some of the best Bass at the show. For the price a ridiculous deal. The MMG's seem like a steal at the dollar price point, but I would have liked to hear different music. I think Vapor needed a bigger room. Never could get the smaller Magico's to sound right. The big Magicos were pretty good, but probably in too big of a room.

Best System for the Money

Wally at Underwood did such a great job demonstrating his products to us.   I loved everything about the system he was showing.  $12K got you the works.   Well not the chairs and Wally.   Open baffle sweetness, big bass and excellent imaging won the day here.  Throw in a room correction system, a DAC,  three power amps, speakers and a preamp and you were complete.   The Emerald Physics speakers are stellar!   If I were starting from scratch I would start here.   If you were gonna try to beat this system yo had better bring your lunch.  It would take you all day. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 3 Jun 2013, 07:25 pm
(http://www.synergisticresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/bass-station-big.jpg)

Synergistic Research:

The Bass Station should be placed directly below the Vibratron, approximately three to six inches out from the front wall, with the dispersion baffle facing your listening position while obstructing the view of its resonator satellite. The Bass Station may also be placed on the floor behind a rack or piece of furniture, just below the Vibratron. This will not hinder the Bass Station’s performance. If necessary, the Bass Station can be positioned in front of the equipment rack or furniture, directly below the Vibratron, and in between your main speakers for a significant improvement in low frequency performance.
 
Razor sharp patent pending Stilettos are included with the Bass Station to couple the characteristics of its bass resonator to your room. Simply screw the Stilettos into the Bass Station for noticeably tighter low frequencies and precise image placement. If you have carpeted floors, be certain you press down hard on the Bass Station so its razor sharp Stilettos make solid contact with the floor.

If you like the Bass Station try some of these under your gear:
(http://www.synergisticresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/MiG-w-packadging-shorter.jpg)
Our new MiG component footers deliver vast improvements to all systems. Based on our Acoustic ART System resonators, MiG’s (Mechanical Interface Grounding) re-tune a component’s mechanical resonance, while providing a lightning fast drain of mechanical energy to ground. The result is a much larger soundstage with a lower noise floor for blacker backgrounds. Other benefits include sweeter highs with extended air, a more layered and relaxed mid-range, and deeper, tighter bass. MiG’s are especially beneficial when improving the performance of digital components such as transports, D to A converters, CD players, and even digital clocks. MiG’s are a must audition for anyone seeking organic natural sound.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 3 Jun 2013, 07:48 pm
Best Vendor Demonstration
The salesman in the room went above and beyond to give us a demo on what most of us consider to be snakeoil.  Synergistic Research Bass Station.  We have all seen the small room tuning cups.  I don't remember the name of the room sponsor we were in.  One of our group, who will remain nameless, asked if you can drink sigle malted scotch out of the room tuning cups.  A discussion began about thier effectiveness. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81637)

A discussion ensued.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81638)

Right in the middle of a busy event our hero posted a person outside the door to stop traffic, and clear defined for us how well this product worked.  He played a cut of music for us and asked us to pay attention to the sound in the rear of the room.   He paused the music and removed the tuning cups from all three of the positions in the back of the room.   He resumed the music.   Much of the ambient goodness in the rear of the room went away.   He stopped the music again.  When he replaced the cups the goodness returned.   Was it a mass hypnotic trick?   We all agreed on what we heard.  The room clearly had more depth and musical spaciousness with the cups employed.  Without the cups it sounded like we were all sitting too close to the back wall, which were were.and were putting up with that reflective nastiness.  The unknown salesman changed the music to some bass heavy Stevie Ray Vaugn.  We listened and got comfortable with the piece.  He paused and removed the tuning cups directly in front of the woofers of the Wilson speakers we were listening to.  When the music started the bass was as woolly as gradmas sweater.    When the music started a third time with the cups in place the bass tightenup and was articulate and firm again. 

Congradulations this vendor was taking a demonstration to the next level.
PFM

Any time I run across something that works, but I flat out can't figure out why - it's PFM.

Pure F'n Magic (an expression a friend taught me).
Space ship (base station). Magic dots. Different brand cables that measure the same but sound different.

I came to believe in system synergy a few years back, and it creates a never ending search  :( ....... and the only way to find out if you like it or not is to take it home and try it in your system. There's no way to tell in advance if it's going to make a positive change for you.  :dunno:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: abernardi on 3 Jun 2013, 09:36 pm

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7452/8920857130_f72a3740a2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920857130/)
EOSD3209 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920857130/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Teresonic speakers.  Fabulous cabinetry and finish with sound quality that kind of mimics the look, warm and inviting.  I would, however, probably hide the funky subwoofer (?) under something if they were in my home.

Hey Jon, great pix!  Actually, the little speaker there isn't a sub, it's a bookshelf speaker.  I loved this room.  What was fascinating about this speaker was that it's a single driver speaker, but it's using the entire cabinet to produce the sound.  I realized this when I was sitting in the sweet spot and some guy was loitering right in front of the left speaker, completely blocking the driver.  Yet the soundstage remained rock solid and I didn't hear any difference in the sound! = woops, gotta go, fire drill.  more later

OK, back, just sweeping up the ashes...   :green:

Anyway,  I told the guy running the room about what I heard and he confirmed that was how they were designed, using the cabinet kind of like an acoustic instrument.  Very pleasing sound, piano especially was absolutely convincing and engaging
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 09:58 pm

Best Playful Sound

We walked out of the TAD room and down the hall we went to YG.  While The TAD were smooth refined and perfect across the audible frequency the YG seemed to be just alot more playful.  There seemed to be a color of fun in the way they were voiced.  Sure they had everything right.  Yes they had very sharp imaging and perfect tempo and pitch.  It's like Tapatio on a french fry.  It was just a fun sort of kick.  Cliff that reference is for you. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81640)

The speakers called Sunil out.  He had to get up in thier grill and mooned them back.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81641)

Once they had danced a little they became fast friends.  I think the YG have a beautiful smile.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 10:06 pm
PFM

Any time I run across something that works, but I flat out can't figure out why - it's PFM.

Pure F'n Magic (an expression a friend taught me).
Space ship (base station). Magic dots. Different brand cables that measure the same but sound different.

I came to believe in system synergy a few years back, and it creates a never ending search  :( ....... and the only way to find out if you like it or not is to take it home and try it in your system. There's no way to tell in advance if it's going to make a positive change for you.  :dunno:

I agree John! 

PFM 

I'm sure someone can explain why the cup will affect sound and performs a ritual cleansing of wooley bass. 

If we are going to invest in something like that we want to know if you can drink single malt scotch or tequila from them.  That question has still not been answered.   We are into multifunctional PFM. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 10:25 pm
Best Magazine Hospitality Room Wine

Goes to PFo. 

We walked in and there was a reveiwer being interveiwed on video and random people milling about.  Cliff made a beeline to the scotch table while Sunil and I tried to pretend we fit in.  Nice try.  Once the interveiw was over we were engaged in conversation with what we thought were some intellegent reveiws of our day on the audio beat.  Then it happened.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81642)

The first taste of wine of the day.  My mouth needed some breakin time.  The first sip was ackward and had a vegetable type of finish.  It was a little chewy too.   Once my breakfast was seared off my tongue with some firm tannins on the second taste the lush overwhelmed me like a young man at a topless lounge.   It was a stunner.  2011 Melbec.  Would not be my first choice for making friends.   Thank You Positive Feedback.   If you can show such great taste in wines I guess you must have a discerning audio pallette.  I'll pay more attention to your reviews.

Is that just me or is the picture upside down.   I need a new computer.  I should go MAC, but I heard at the computer audio seminar that PC is the way to go because Apple sucks.   People seem to be so emotional about this.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SteveFord on 3 Jun 2013, 10:30 pm
Isn't that the one from Under The Table Distillieries? 
Sorry, I couldn't resist.

What strikes me most about this coverage is just how beautiful audio equipment has become; so much of it is just artwork.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: FullRangeMan on 3 Jun 2013, 10:36 pm
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2809/8920076319_355805cc20_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920076319/)
EOSD3329 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8920076319/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr

Fritz Rev 7 Towers in play here with Atmasphere preamp.  I could not make out which monoblocks were playing at the moment, but there was an Atmasphere amp in front as well. 
Wow, the monoblocks use a very GM70 power tube with a single tube input stage, maybe 6SN7/6SL7 or even 12SN7.
A very minimalist amp, very salivating, very  :drool:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 10:39 pm
If I were to own some of these speakers I may have to start using some hair products everyday. 

But nothing says audiophile like vinyl.   A good vinyl wrap over particle board.   Basic Brown.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 3 Jun 2013, 11:15 pm
The Hardest Working Factory Representative

Goes to April at KEF for her work in conecting the dots.   Customer - Dealer - KEF 


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81643)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81644)


I came to listen to some LS50.  I wanted to hear what everyone was raving about.   Imma doing some houskeeping at work and they would fit in the office just perfectly.  It's true they sound incredible.  Next year they will be introducing some speaker grill technology to go with them.  HAAAA!  After a quick sit down in the demo i went to the next room expecting to see the Blades from KEF.  I was greeted by a sparkling woman with a fine smile.  I can't think of a better way to start a Sunday.   There were no Blades in the second sound room.  After qualifying me April showed me a powered version of the LS50 for my desk, a better solution for me.  She was ready to facilitate a meet with my closest KEF dealer in Healdsburg, CA to hear the Blades.  I didn't even know Healdsburg had an audio gallery where I could listen to a pair of Blades and LS50.   I know where it is,  the phone number and all about the owners specialty matching customers with products and services.    I haven't set up the meeting yet but I will.   

I'm tipping my hat to someone that worked very hard to connect the dots and give me the opportunity to meet a shop close to my house that might turn out to be a great resource.   

Thanks April.

Note to John:  I am not abandoning my Line Source LS6.   These are for my office at work.   They match the Yamaha classic reciever I found.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=68886)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: a.wayne on 3 Jun 2013, 11:55 pm
Jon , others , great pics and thanks for the reports ........
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Jon L on 4 Jun 2013, 12:44 am
Hey Jon, great pix!  Actually, the little speaker there isn't a sub, it's a bookshelf speaker. 

Wow, I knew something was odd about that scene.  Thanks for the info; I have corrected my entry.  It turns out to be Teresonic Magus speakers which are supposed to look like this on stands.

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2842/8942404473_f786ece69f.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8942404473/)
Magus (http://www.flickr.com/photos/60017347@N03/8942404473/) by drjlo2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/60017347@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 4 Jun 2013, 04:48 am
Jon,

Thank you very much for stopping by our room.

I apologize if I seemed absent-minded.
Between interacting with visitors, taking calls, and other tasks; I was not 100% focus. :)

It's good to see you again though.

Thanks again.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: fritzspeakers on 4 Jun 2013, 10:08 am
FULLRANGEMAN-  The GM70 based amps put out 60 watts each and are built by Jack Elliano of Electra-print audio.  Besides building his own designs, he's built transformers for many other amp companies for decades.  I will update this post with the input tubes later.

Great show & feedback for the amps & loudspeakers.  As always, it is a pleasure doing these shows and getting meet new people and visit with old friends.  Also, getting to hear new music that some people will actually bring along to listen to.

PS- Here's some other walk through the room pictures in the meantime...

 (http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport20131_zps4fabea05.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport20131_zps4fabea05.jpg.html)

(http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport20132_zps85da6918.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport20132_zps85da6918.jpg.html)

(http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport2013_zps75194d32.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport2013_zps75194d32.jpg.html)

(http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport20134_zps5a445717.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport20134_zps5a445717.jpg.html)

(http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport20135_zps88177b3c.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport20135_zps88177b3c.jpg.html)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Afterimage on 4 Jun 2013, 12:24 pm
Thanks for the reports guys.  Even though some this stuff is great sounding,  I wouldn't be able to buy, it has low WAF.  Okay so yes my wife wouldn't like most of it, but I too admit I look for stuff that looks good to me first and foremost and that narrows down my search for products.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: EdRo on 4 Jun 2013, 01:40 pm
Did anyone spend any time in the Empirical room with the Vapor Nimbus speakers? I've only seen one poor quality pic with no thoughts, reflections or opinions. :scratch:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 4 Jun 2013, 03:15 pm
We got to see them.  They are stunning.  We heard them however Steve was doing his Emperical thing and we did not want to press him out of character.  The music Steve was playing for a customer was not for us.   Don't get me wrong if the room wasn't packed tight  like it was I'm sure we could have got a much better demo.  Our timing to get a demo was really bad.

If they are at the DaGoGo show in SF we'll get a listen there. 

Jon posted some pictures earlier in this thread. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 4 Jun 2013, 03:40 pm
At the show and having fun. I've already spent more $$$ than intended on records and discs. Listened to a bunch of rooms - only took pictures of the ones that were listenable (ran into several that were painful, but it's only Friday)

Gotta say, I liked the Melody/Angel City room a lot. Very enjoyable and listenable. Smooth. Good soundstage.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81488)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81489)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81490)
Sorry about the picture quality - it's just soooooooo much easier to carry around a point and shoot that a DSLR at these things.

Off to dinner

*edit/additional:

Hugh - enjoyed your room!

I even came back shortly before I left for the day in order to double check. This room sounds pretty bleeping good. There were no shortcomings that I could hear. The soundstage was wide and deep with very good focus. Bass was fast and plentiful. No "Glare" and not harsh at all. Great frequency extension on the top end gave plenty of "air" where it was supposed to be. :thumb:

This system was playing "music" as opposed to so many rooms that had very impressive sound.

The Melody room was the easiest room to listen to at the whole show.  I agree with you John.   Talk about a best buy in speakers!   Good vibe, good music and it seemed like everything came together well in there.  Thanks Angel City and Hugh for the hospitality!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 4 Jun 2013, 04:16 pm
Thanks for the reports guys.  Even though some this stuff is great sounding,  I wouldn't be able to buy, it has low WAF.  Okay so yes my wife wouldn't like most of it, but I too admit I look for stuff that looks good to me first and foremost and that narrows down my search for products.
Sounds like it's time for.....



da da daaaaa............









A MAN CAVE!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 4 Jun 2013, 04:18 pm
Thank YOU Steve for your kind words.

It's always a pleasure to meet and talk to you and the rest of the gang.

I hope we can do it again in August at CAS. :)

Until then, stay safe.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Afterimage on 4 Jun 2013, 05:59 pm
Sounds like it's time for.....



da da daaaaa............









A MAN CAVE!!!!!!!!!!

I have one.  My wife never goes down to it, but at the same time she won't let what she percievers as off the wall looking stuff get set up in there.  Overall she is very accepting of my hobby, even though she doesn't understand it.  I can't tell you how many times she has opened up the credit card bill and questined me about the charges.  Or these type of questions, "why did you buy an amp, I thought you already had one?"
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 4 Jun 2013, 07:01 pm
We got to see them.  They are stunning.  We heard them however Steve was doing his Emperical thing and we did not want to press him out of character.  The music Steve was playing for a customer was not for us.   Don't get me wrong if the room wasn't packed tight  like it was I'm sure we could have got a much better demo.  Our timing to get a demo was really bad.

If they are at the DaGoGo show in SF we'll get a listen there. 

Jon posted some pictures earlier in this thread.


It's rare when a customers music is either a good recording or to my liking either, but you play it for them.  Never the whole track though.  Tends to scare everyone away.

You can always come back 10 minutes later and hear anything you want.

Best sound we have had at any show IMO.  Beat the $30K TAD E1's I had last year.  Better bass.  Similar off-axis response to the TAD and no uni-Q driver needed.  Sounds identical standing, sitting or off to the side.  No speaker EQ required, only room correction using Amarra.  Flattest response I have seen with my Earthworks calibrated mic.  May have to get a pair...

The 805 monoblock amps were wonderful too.  Effortless and can get REALLY loud if you want.  After hours Ryan literally blew me out of the room with tattered clothes :o

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 4 Jun 2013, 08:49 pm
Steve,

You were busy providing excellent customer service.  We came back it just took longer than you expected.  We should have come after hours.  The last thing I would ever do is disturb someone when the are that focused.   

You guys were really busy.  High class problem.

Warm regards,

Steve
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 4 Jun 2013, 08:52 pm
Steve,

You were busy providing excellent customer service.  We came back it just took longer than you expected.  We should have come after hours.  The last thing I would ever do is disturb someone when the are that focused.   

You guys were really busy.  High class problem.

Warm regards,

Steve

Like they say, its a good problem to have.  I just wish I could play 2 or 3 tracks that would make everyone happy.  Its like cars.  Everybody likes different ones...

Steve N.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 4 Jun 2013, 09:19 pm
Best Sound without an Atmosphere - This just might be the perfect system for the moon or a Dennys waiting area.

Congradulations Onda Ligera you win it!  The sound was so great from this speaker system from Latvia that it transcended the lack of audio trimmings.  Juris Perkens and his crew blew the doors of anything I was able to get a good demo and listen.  Bare chairs bare walls and barely speaking english this team of satelite country audiophiles hit the mark.  It was late on Sunday when I got the call from one of our group headed back to the Bay Area who was  stuck in traffic on I5.  Welcome to LA.  "Steve, you have got to go to listen to Onda Ligera."  All I heard was 4 th floor Russians.    I'm so happy I went.   Later when I was waiting for the shuttle to the airport I got to speak to the youngest member of the team.  He indicated that each speaker is hand made and hand tuned as it is built.  It takes 3 months to build a pair.  This just sounds like an email from Kenya.  Send us $22k and in 3 months you'll get your $150K worth of speakers.  Can someone find these guys a CNC machine for rent and get them to work right here at home?  The speakers sound so good I would consider financing the venture.  Sorrry Jon L Imma steal another couple of your pictures. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81678)

Did anyone else get a listen and what did you think?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81679)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: FullRangeMan on 4 Jun 2013, 09:37 pm
FULLRANGEMAN-  The GM70 based amps put out 60 watts each and are built by Jack Elliano of Electra-print audio.  Besides building his own designs, he's built transformers for many other amp companies for decades.  I will update this post with the input tubes later.

Great show & feedback for the amps & loudspeakers.  As always, it is a pleasure doing these shows and getting meet new people and visit with old friends.  Also, getting to hear new music that some people will actually bring along to listen to.

PS- Here's some other walk through the room pictures in the meantime...
Thanks Fritz for informing this good news.
I was unaware Mr.Elliano is now mading tube amps, the GM70 tube seems a natural choice for 20W/pc or more, since sino big Triodes are unreliable and NOS US big Triodes are extinct and the technology to make them is lost as the 300B.
I will look Eletraprint site.
Regards
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 4 Jun 2013, 10:04 pm
I'll let my Speakers do the Talkin for Me  - Award

These speakers could pick the fly shite out of the pepper.    They were incredibly resolving and gorgeous sounding.   Good lookin too if you are a cello lover.  Not a word was said as we kindly recieved our listening ration of Lawrence Speakers.   The bottom end didn't shake up my gut but everything else was so well launched into the room.  This was the most non evasive demo I have ever received.  The man and woman in the room didn't say a word. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81680)

If John didn't look we would have never known these had a rear firing ribbon tweeter

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81681)

I think if you buy a pair of speakers you get the rug free.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81682)

Back off and scratch it Cheeseboy.  We've got awards!

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: shawbros3 on 4 Jun 2013, 10:47 pm
Did anyone else get a listen and what did you think?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81679)


I too got a call from that same weirdo at about the same time and me and my buddy decided to pay Onda a visit.   Well, let's just say we both left changed men.  The super charged music playing really tattooed us with the tightest, fastest, and attacking bass we have ever heard bar none.  The energy coming from any other speaker at those levels would have blown my ears off, but these Onda's were defying physics that's for sure.  No hurt whatsoever, it was amazing.  It was the ONLY room in which my buddy didn't doze off in, except for maybe the Cessaro/Tron horn room.  Who said horns couldn't do vocals with amazing realism and tone and not sound honky in the process, that room sure changed those misconceptions pretty quickly...

From top to bottom the Onda room wasn't the smoothest sounding system, but it gave us the jolt we needed before the plane ride home.  And even today we are still chatting about that crazy room...

Most Shocking System at the show for me :thumb: 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 4 Jun 2013, 11:30 pm
Who amongst us is a broker and willing to share some stock tips?  Super mutual funds?  Whatever??  There must be more millionaires today than ever in history based on the rooms at this show.  Get a look at some of those turntables!!  I'm serious about investment advice.  Feel free to PM me.  Thanks.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jtwrace on 5 Jun 2013, 12:29 am
Beat the $30K TAD E1's I had last year. 

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
:scratch:  I'd sure like to see the data on these....if they can compete with the E1 I'd like to see a CR1 replacement then that isn't $45k.  Those I want.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 5 Jun 2013, 04:46 am
:scratch:  I'd sure like to see the data on these....if they can compete with the E1 I'd like to see a CR1 replacement then that isn't $45k.  Those I want.

I would predict that they beat any other speaker.  Never heard anything like them before in 15 years of doing shows.  Ryan can give you the anechoic chamber plots.

I put my system back together at home and I'm now playing many of the new tracks I acquired that sounded amazing on the show speakers.  Really disappointing.  I hate my system :cry:

Steve N.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 5 Jun 2013, 06:36 am
I know how you feel.  Thank god for late night listening.  Stuff always sounds better at my home way into the evening.  For me it's not hate just why can't it sound like some of the systems I heard over the last two days in Newport.  I have alot of work to do on my system.  But it ain't as bad as some rooms I listened to.

On another note if you say your room sounded better than last year that is a big statement.  I really enjoyed the TAD's and John Curl and of course your digital wizardry combination at Newport one year ago.  It moved me to write and give you my 2 cents.  Are you going to be at the California Show with those speakers? 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 5 Jun 2013, 06:40 am
Who amongst us is a broker and willing to share some stock tips?  Super mutual funds?  Whatever??  There must be more millionaires today than ever in history based on the rooms at this show.  Get a look at some of those turntables!!  I'm serious about investment advice.  Feel free to PM me.  Thanks.

Invest in getting Onda some manufacturing expertise and a US distributor.  It just might be a sure thing.  The stock market has always been like betting the ponies.  Best of luck to you.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 5 Jun 2013, 08:16 am
Thanks for the reports guys.....well done... :beer:
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 5 Jun 2013, 06:03 pm
I know how you feel.  Thank god for late night listening.  Stuff always sounds better at my home way into the evening.  For me it's not hate just why can't it sound like some of the systems I heard over the last two days in Newport.  I have alot of work to do on my system.  But it ain't as bad as some rooms I listened to.

On another note if you say your room sounded better than last year that is a big statement.  I really enjoyed the TAD's and John Curl and of course your digital wizardry combination at Newport one year ago.  It moved me to write and give you my 2 cents.  Are you going to be at the California Show with those speakers?

I'm just one guy that wears a lot of hats, so I really can afford to take time off for only one show a year.  Besides, it's exhausting.  I need a life too 8)

Steve N.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 5 Jun 2013, 06:07 pm
Who amongst us is a broker and willing to share some stock tips?  Super mutual funds?  Whatever??  There must be more millionaires today than ever in history based on the rooms at this show.  Get a look at some of those turntables!!  I'm serious about investment advice.  Feel free to PM me.  Thanks.

I have never made money on tips from brokers.  They are not about making money for you, just themselves IME.  Instead, I would recommend to watch the nightly business report every night.  Search on Google for what Warren Buffet is buying and selling (ie: IBM and PSX). Also, if you get a brokerage account for your IRA at Fidelity, they have every day the buy/sell ratios for lots of highly traded stocks.  You can identify dips and buy on these and sell when everyone else is selling.  That way you leverage expertise from a wide swath of investors, both private and professional.

Steve N.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Pete Schumacher on 6 Jun 2013, 01:44 am
I would predict that they beat any other speaker.  Never heard anything like them before in 15 years of doing shows.  Ryan can give you the anechoic chamber plots.

I put my system back together at home and I'm now playing many of the new tracks I acquired that sounded amazing on the show speakers.  Really disappointing.  I hate my system :cry:

Steve N.

First let me start off by saying that it was great working with you Steve, even though you completely hogged the playlist for the whole weekend.   :lol: 

I for one loved the selection of orchestral works.  They really showed off the dynamic chops of Nimbus, along with its ability to effortlessly pull out the detail and complexity presented by those tracks.  I can only wonder what the 250W BMC might have been able to pull off since the 40W SET blew us all away.

Second, let me sincerely apologize.  It pains me to know that our weekend together has forever ruined your appreciation of your current system.  But just know that Ryan and I will do whatever it takes to create for you a personalized pair of Nimbus to assuage your disdain and to bring some joy back into your listening life.   :green:

Seriously, we'd love to work with you to build a set, and look forward to showing off those awesome DACs at RMAF with the new Nimbus "White" featuring Accuton mids.

(http://www.vaporsound.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/Newport/Nimbus_Newport2.jpg)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 6 Jun 2013, 01:51 am
Most of the show reports I've read think this was the best sounding room:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81730)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Afterimage on 6 Jun 2013, 02:30 am

It's rare when a customers music is either a good recording or to my liking either, but you play it for them.  Never the whole track though.  Tends to scare everyone away.

You can always come back 10 minutes later and hear anything you want.

Best sound we have had at any show IMO.  Beat the $30K TAD E1's I had last year.  Better bass.  Similar off-axis response to the TAD and no uni-Q driver needed.  Sounds identical standing, sitting or off to the side.  No speaker EQ required, only room correction using Amarra.  Flattest response I have seen with my Earthworks calibrated mic.  May have to get a pair...

The 805 monoblock amps were wonderful too.  Effortless and can get REALLY loud if you want.  After hours Ryan literally blew me out of the room with tattered clothes :o

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

I looked through thread, but I didn't catch it, what speakers did you have in the room?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Pete Schumacher on 6 Jun 2013, 02:37 am
I looked through thread, but I didn't catch it, what speakers did you have in the room?

Vapor Audio "Nimbus"

(http://www.vaporsound.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/Newport/Nimbus_Newport2.jpg)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 6 Jun 2013, 03:55 am
Most of the show reports I've read think this was the best sounding room:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81730)

I thought that room was just ho hum.  Very smooth but lacking some detail I had heard elsewhere.  Perhaps the wrong music and the wrong timing.  No one seemed to be in charge keeping the ball rolling.  All that beautiful Audio Research gear.  I wouldn't even call it one of my top ten. 

One of my favorite rooms was a cable company with all Modright gear and Marten speakers.  Who was that company.  They were a great positive energy.  They turned me onto some new music.  It was a sweet system. 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 6 Jun 2013, 01:10 pm
I thought that room was just ho hum.  Very smooth but lacking some detail I had heard elsewhere.  Perhaps the wrong music and the wrong timing.  No one seemed to be in charge keeping the ball rolling.  All that beautiful Audio Research gear.  I wouldn't even call it one of my top ten. 

One of my favorite rooms was a cable company with all Modright gear and Marten speakers.  Who was that company.  They were a great positive energy.  They turned me onto some new music.  It was a sweet system.
Dynamic Design AV


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81737)


Wondered if you were going to mention that room - we sure talked about it a lot while we were in the room and afterwards. Gotta agree - a very nice sound being produced there.

I'm inclined to agree with your assessment of the AR/Wilson. I'm usually a big fan of a properly set up Wilson room with good gear. Never heard it at this show. :(

That's what makes this hobby interesting - different opinions. I've heard people make positive comments about rooms that I could barely stand walking into. I left as soon as I heard the sound being produced. Meanwhile, I've heard many negative comments about rooms that I thought were pretty d@mn good.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 6 Jun 2013, 03:02 pm
I have never made money on tips from brokers.  They are not about making money for you, just themselves IME.  Instead, I would recommend to watch the nightly business report every night.  Search on Google for what Warren Buffet is buying and selling (ie: IBM and PSX). Also, if you get a brokerage account for your IRA at Fidelity, they have every day the buy/sell ratios for lots of highly traded stocks.  You can identify dips and buy on these and sell when everyone else is selling.  That way you leverage expertise from a wide swath of investors, both private and professional.

Steve N.
Thank you, Steve N.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81739)

This photo or set-up has me thinking.  My front firing speaks are 54" from the front of their cabinets to the wall behind.  Depth if field is darn good but I believe I'll go for a good bit more.  Now that's gonna put me nearer to the larger IKEA record rack against the wall behind me in a 15' long room, but I'm thinking that would be no big deal.  My ears would still be at the point of an equilateral triangle.  Secondly, my equipment table is not bulky by any means but notice in the pic above that there is no equipment table or rack.  Here's a visual of my present set-up-

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81968)

I'm thinking that were I to move my turntable and rack from behind the speakers and add two more GIK panels to the wall that could be a sonic enhancement.  Further, there would be no visual impairment to the stage, just black space.  It's hard to dismiss the visual distraction of my turntable and rack where it presently is.  As the speakers are active, all that would remain is my power conditioner for my speakers.  Two longer IC's is all I would need.  Thoughts, problems, anyone?

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: bpape on 6 Jun 2013, 04:07 pm
Forcing the seating closer to the wall behind you likely isn't a good idea. If you keep the seating the same and want to pull the speakers forward, just pull them a tad closer together too so you maintain the equilateral if that is your preference.

Bryan
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 6 Jun 2013, 04:52 pm
Dynamic Design AV

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81737)

Best Demonstration of the Audible Difference of Music Played with a Positive Attitude and Vibe 

I have heard a Modwright Pre-Amp here and a Modwright modified Oppo there but never everything in one system.   Wow I can dig it!  The Marten Speaker interpretation of what the equipment served up was stunning.  But then I have to postulate.  Was it the Modwright?   or was it the Dynamic Design AV cabling?  It has been shown that a healthy positive attitude can effect the molecules around it.  It is my personal theory that this system sounded so incredible because the people around us in the demo were just so happy we could share thier great sound room with them.   If the Dynamic Design products are manufactured with that same positivity then they have it stored in the copper molecules.   I think we should all try these cables and find out for ourselves. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81745)

Loved this CD.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: SoCalWJS on 6 Jun 2013, 05:08 pm
Dynamic Design AV

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81737)

Best Demonstration of the Audible Difference of Music Played with a Positive Attitude and Vibe 

I have heard a Modwright Pre-Amp here and a Modwright modified Oppo there but never everything in one system.   Wow I can dig it!  The Marten Speaker interpretation of what the equipment served up was stunning.  But then I have to postulate.  Was it the Modwright?   or was it the Dynamic Design AV cabling?  It has been shown that a healthy positive attitude can effect the molecules around it.  It is my personal theory that this system sounded so incredible because the people around us in the demo were just so happy we could share thier great sound room with them.   If the Dynamic Design products are manufactured with that same positivity then they have it stored in the copper molecules.   I think we should all try these cables and find out for ourselves. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81745)

Loved this CD.
Music being played was definitely a factor, but methinks the system (MW modified Oppo 105/ MW 36.5/MW 150 SE/Marten Speakers with good cables) had something to do with it  :green:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81746)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 6 Jun 2013, 05:44 pm
Forcing the seating closer to the wall behind you likely isn't a good idea. If you keep the seating the same and want to pull the speakers forward, just pull them a tad closer together too so you maintain the equilateral if that is your preference.

Bryan
Thanks, B.  The wall behind me is 50% open with a diagonal staircase dividing the wall and the opening into the room on one side.  From the enclosed corner on the other and extended out a good ways is me IKEA open back record cabinet, so there really isn't a launch or loading of uniform waveforms as you may have thought.  Your recommendation will get tried, tho, on the chance that it might be a better solution.   Again, thanks.

Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 6 Jun 2013, 06:04 pm
Cheeseboy & SoCalWJS- thanks for the feedback on the Wilson room.

Michael Fremer(Wilson XLF owner) comments on the room around the 40 min. mark of this podcast:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IS-dWDowCHw
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Russtafarian on 6 Jun 2013, 06:30 pm
Quote
I'm thinking that were I to move my turntable and rack from behind the speakers and add two more GIK panels to the wall that could be a sonic enhancement.  Further, there would be no visual impairment to the stage, just black space.  It's hard to dismiss the visual distraction of my turntable and rack where it presently is.  As the speakers are active, all that would remain is my power conditioner for my speakers.  Two longer IC's is all I would need.  Thoughts, problems, anyone?

Do it!  Powered speakers means no long speaker cable  runs.  I've had my gear off to the side for years and it opens up the space sonically and visually. 

Putting some object of contemplation between the speakers can be really cool.  My friend has a large framed photo of Bernstein conducting an orchestra between his speakers.  Even a simple lava lamp works well.

Russ
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Russtafarian on 6 Jun 2013, 06:46 pm
My first contribution to this thread.  The last two Newport shows I worked so hard as the sound engineer for all the live music that I didn't get to see much. 

This year I didn't work at all.  I love mixing live music, but for an event like this, I'd rather relax with friends than put in four straight 15 hour days.  So I wandered around, took in some seminars, shopped for vinyl, laid out by the pool and listened to jazz, hosted the audio society hospitality suite, and just hung out with my buddies.  I decided to judge my show experience on how many new friends I made and how many old friends I reconnected with rather than how many rooms I visited.  Based on that criteria, I had a great time.

Russ
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 6 Jun 2013, 06:55 pm
Do it!  Powered speakers means no long speaker cable  runs.  I've had my gear off to the side for years and it opens up the space sonically and visually. 

Putting some object of contemplation between the speakers can be really cool.  My friend has a large framed photo of Bernstein conducting an orchestra between his speakers.  Even a simple lava lamp works well.

Russ

Well alright, then!  And opening up the space sonically and visually is exactly what I am attempting to do.  Don't think I'll put an object of contemplation out there, however, as it's purely the stage and the music that I want to contemplate.  Thanks.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Vapor Audio on 6 Jun 2013, 07:52 pm
I would predict that they beat any other speaker.  Never heard anything like them before in 15 years of doing shows.  Ryan can give you the anechoic chamber plots.

I put my system back together at home and I'm now playing many of the new tracks I acquired that sounded amazing on the show speakers.  Really disappointing.  I hate my system :cry:

Steve N.

Hey Steve, thanks for the kind words ... but your front end deserves much praise as well!  I've tried myself at home doing experiments like flac vs wav, and had never heard the obvious and immediate difference that we did at Newport using your gear.  It's was clear within 5 seconds even standing on the left side of the room, not just in the sweet spot.  And my DAC at home is no slouch at almost $6000.  Yours is just much better at fleshing out low level details than anything I've ever heard. 

Those Final Drive transformers made a nice difference on Saturday once hooked up as well, the improvement in speed was immediate!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: a.wayne on 6 Jun 2013, 09:57 pm
Dynamic Design AV

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81737)

Best Demonstration of the Audible Difference of Music Played with a Positive Attitude and Vibe 

I have heard a Modwright Pre-Amp here and a Modwright modified Oppo there but never everything in one system.   Wow I can dig it!  The Marten Speaker interpretation of what the equipment served up was stunning.  But then I have to postulate.  Was it the Modwright?   or was it the Dynamic Design AV cabling?  It has been shown that a healthy positive attitude can effect the molecules around it.  It is my personal theory that this system sounded so incredible because the people around us in the demo were just so happy we could share thier great sound room with them.   If the Dynamic Design products are manufactured with that same positivity then they have it stored in the copper molecules.   I think we should all try these cables and find out for ourselves. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81745)

Loved this CD.

Seriously wicked CD,  a larger speaker than pictured would be required to really hear Masekela ......:)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: a.wayne on 6 Jun 2013, 10:10 pm
Cheeseboy & SoCalWJS- thanks for the feedback on the Wilson room.

Michael Fremer(Wilson XLF owner) comments on the room around the 40 min. mark of this podcast:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IS-dWDowCHw

Ahhh, Mickey,

admitting to being another backward and stupid American  @ the 11:44 mark  ..... :)
Bass Frequencies from 500-1000 Hz ...:)


who really take's Fremer  seriously ...


Geeez
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 6 Jun 2013, 10:59 pm
I was really soakin up that CD.  We all were.  Those speakers are bigger than you can really tell.  The monoblocs are massive.   Masekela was there with us.  You would have been happy!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: a.wayne on 7 Jun 2013, 03:13 am
I hear you ........ :)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: soundofrockets on 7 Jun 2013, 05:40 am
this was my first show.  and i had a blast.  thanks to the guys hanging with me and "dealing" with me.  i can be a little difficult and stubborn at times but hats off to Steve, Cliff, John, his lovely wife Ann and of course Hugh. 

what was the name of the second CD we heard in that wilson room, Steve ?

i really want to learn more about the room synergy and all the cups and tumblers that it comes with..

will post some pixs soon...............
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 7 Jun 2013, 05:11 pm
Hey Steve, thanks for the kind words ... but your front end deserves much praise as well!  I've tried myself at home doing experiments like flac vs wav, and had never heard the obvious and immediate difference that we did at Newport using your gear.  It's was clear within 5 seconds even standing on the left side of the room, not just in the sweet spot.  And my DAC at home is no slouch at almost $6000.  Yours is just much better at fleshing out low level details than anything I've ever heard. 

That is certainly nice to hear, thanks. 

I always get a lot of flack, especially on Asylum about hearing the sonic differences in .wav and the other formats including AIFF, ALAC and FLAC and even uncompressed FLAC.  The experiment this time at Newport was .wav versus AIFF.  It seems implausible, but the difference is clearly there.  .wav is superior.  Hard to believe that Apple cannot properly decode their own format :duh: It's really a shame that there is no alternative to .wav with the same audio quality.  Many folks leave the room disappointed in their own music libraries when they hear this.  The good news is that at least with ALAC and FLAC, you can get back to pristine .wav.  Not sure that is the case with AIFF....

Quote
Those Final Drive transformers made a nice difference on Saturday once hooked up as well, the improvement in speed was immediate!

Some of the improvement was due to using the balanced outputs of the DAC to drive the SE amps.  It is also beneficial to break the ground-loops.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 7 Jun 2013, 06:21 pm
this was my first show.  and i had a blast.  thanks to the guys hanging with me and "dealing" with me.  i can be a little difficult and stubborn at times but hats off to Steve, Cliff, John, his lovely wife Ann and of course Hugh. 

what was the name of the second CD we heard in that wilson room, Steve ?

i really want to learn more about the room synergy and all the cups and tumblers that it comes with..

will post some pixs soon...............

We had fun with you being there too.  Did you get home that night and check on your system compared to what you heard for two days?   I know you did.  Everytime I go to a good audio listening I run home and check my system.   Whew.  It still sounds good just needs some work.   

John and Anne make for the best host and hostess team for this event.   They must feel like they are herding cats.  They both should be canonized as saints for putting up with us.  I keep an eye on Anne.   She must have bat good hearing.   It takes me about 3 minutes to either settle in with a demo or leave.  Anne it takes 10 seconds.   If she starts texting or working her technology I know it's time to split.   John is more kind and will actually wait for eye contact then make a face.   What do you expect from a couple that own two systems, one line source and one open baffle?   Thank you both for staying with us through the event. 

Which Wilson room?  The one with the tuning cups was Stevie Ray Vaugn.  I can't remember anything about the room with Wilson where the owner of the company was from your home town.  It gave me gas.   


Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: rbbert on 7 Jun 2013, 06:29 pm
...The good news is that at least with ALAC and FLAC, you can get back to pristine .wav.  Not sure that is the case with AIFF....


Why would it not be the case?? Convert WAV to FLAC, then to AIFF, then to FLAC, then back to WAV.   You'll end up with the same file you started with (except possibly for metadata changes).

Along the same lines, how does  it sound to use something like Jplay Mini set up to decode FLAC to WAV (into RAM) before playing, compared to playing a native WAV  file?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: audioengr on 7 Jun 2013, 07:00 pm
Why would it not be the case?? Convert WAV to FLAC, then to AIFF, then to FLAC, then back to WAV.   You'll end up with the same file you started with (except possibly for metadata changes).

Along the same lines, how does  it sound to use something like Jplay Mini set up to decode FLAC to WAV (into RAM) before playing, compared to playing a native WAV  file?

Good question.  In theory if the problem is on-the-fly decoding, it should be identical to .wav.  I don't have Jplay.  Just currently trying Jriver for Mac.

Steve N.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 8 Jun 2013, 03:32 am
Before this thread runs out of gas, I gotta ask if Jack Johnson's album of several years ago, Everloving, has ever been used as a demo at Newport or elsewhere to anyone's knowledge?  Tell you what, you downloaders find this and capture the song "Losing Hope", crank it up (emphasis on crank it up) and hear the damndest drum sound you've ever heard with tiny little high frequency diamonds   Similar to what's on Ani DiFranco's "Up, up, up, up, up" only with much more presence and volume but still with that requisite garage sound.  It's a trip, I'm telling you, and doubt that you have heard anything like it.  Lemme know what you think.  Thank you.

Er, I'm listening to a Japanese fat vinyl pressing with wide dynamics, but don't let that stop you.  Surely it's there.  I did say turn it up, right?
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 8 Jun 2013, 05:21 am
No doubt about it.  This thread has died.   
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 8 Jun 2013, 05:36 am
Perfect observation, CB.  Who but you could have said that.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: a.wayne on 8 Jun 2013, 09:23 am
Appears to be going in circles .......:)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: woofersus on 8 Jun 2013, 12:29 pm
Before this thread runs out of gas, I gotta ask if Jack Johnson's album of several years ago, Everloving, has ever been used as a demo at Newport or elsewhere to anyone's knowledge?  Tell you what, you downloaders find this and capture the song "Losing Hope", crank it up (emphasis on crank it up) and hear the damndest drum sound you've ever heard with tiny little high frequency diamonds   Similar to what's on Ani DiFranco's "Up, up, up, up, up" only with much more presence and volume but still with that requisite garage sound.  It's a trip, I'm telling you, and doubt that you have heard anything like it.  Lemme know what you think.  Thank you.

Er, I'm listening to a Japanese fat vinyl pressing with wide dynamics, but don't let that stop you.  Surely it's there.  I did say turn it up, right?

We did play some Jack Johnson over the weekend, but not from that album I don't believe.  I'll have to look that one up.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Pete Schumacher on 8 Jun 2013, 02:40 pm
We did play some Jack Johnson over the weekend, but not from that album I don't believe.  I'll have to look that one up.

We did too.  It's one of Ryan's go-to artists, though that particular track isn't usually one that he plays.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jimdgoulding on 8 Jun 2013, 04:45 pm
Thanks for your replies, fellas.  Really DO encourage everyone give a listen.  You'll see why if you do.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Cheeseboy on 8 Jun 2013, 06:37 pm
Appears to be going in circles .......:)

Now that right there is funny.
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: soundofrockets on 12 Jun 2013, 04:32 pm
i was wondering if anybody has put forward any kind of theory behind the synergy cups and whistles.  but man was i impressed with the demo.  you really had to be there to believe it.  but how does it work ?? what was the thinking behind this ? what are the alternatives ?  if you are the designer of such a product you better have answers to these questions otherwise its all "voodoo". 

Steve, in addition to the CD you have pictured we did listen to another CD and i believe you got the name.  can you share please. 

i loved the stuff at audio research room.

what room was the award winning tube preamp ? 

still recovering from all the fun in southern california.  when is the next show !!!!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 12 Jun 2013, 05:02 pm
Next show would be CAS (California Audio Show) in SFO. :)

You'll coming? :D
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 12 Jun 2013, 05:03 pm
Which one is that?
what room was the award winning tube preamp ? 
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 21 Jun 2013, 05:48 pm
Does anyone who went to the show know the manufacturer of these diffusers?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82484)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: EdRo on 21 Jun 2013, 07:59 pm
This is from a company called MSR Acoustics. Heres the you tube link.
http://youtu.be/UJKwJWHxLgQ
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 21 Jun 2013, 08:42 pm
This is from a company called MSR Acoustics. Heres the you tube link.
http://youtu.be/UJKwJWHxLgQ

Mahalo!
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Hugh on 25 Jun 2013, 07:06 pm
Thanks to Paul M. for his vote of confidence. :)

http://dagogo.com/t-h-e-newport-beach-2013-audio-show-report/2
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: fritzspeakers on 25 Jun 2013, 07:30 pm
Thank you Paul & and congrats to the AC member companies & the other fine sounding rooms.  As always, it is a pleasure doing these shows, hearing new music, visiting with old friends & meeting new ones.  Thank you all for stopping by!  Fritz

http://dagogo.com/t-h-e-newport-beach-2013-audio-show-report

(http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll3/fritzspeakers/THEShowNewport2013_zps75194d32.jpg) (http://s284.photobucket.com/user/fritzspeakers/media/THEShowNewport2013_zps75194d32.jpg.html)
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: abernardi on 27 Jun 2013, 05:28 am
i was wondering if anybody has put forward any kind of theory behind the synergy cups and whistles.  but man was i impressed with the demo.

The demo was indeed impressive.  But I'm not convinced what we were hearing was a more accurate reproduction as he claims, or did these gadgets just change the character of the sound.  It certainly was more pleasing to my ear when he had everything engaged.  But my, he must have had $20,000 worth of his gadgets in place to produce that sound.

I forgot the guy's name, but I tried to get him to explain to me what he was doing, but he wasn't all that forthcoming.  But I can imagine he must be more than tired of trying to explain.  He did say he got the idea for the little cups from Tibetan singing bowls.  He also mentioned the platforms and cables were working at the quantum level.  Whenever I hear that... run, don't walk, out of the room.  But I can't deny what I heard, it was obvious.  I don't have words to describe what each thing did, but it was distinct.  Both the bowls and the platforms seemed to make the sound more open, airy, full.  It was sort of like comparing a great box speaker to those big MBL speakers
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: Pete Schumacher on 27 Jun 2013, 07:19 am
Indeed, thanks a bunch Paul.  Glad to be included among your favorites.  We had a great time at the show and have already talked about coming back.  It will be a tall order, but we fully intend to outdo the Nimbus next year.

And James Darby over at Stereo Mojo put us in his list of favorites.

http://www.stereomojo.com/2013%20THE%20SHOW%20Newport%20Beach/2013THESHOWNEWPORTBEACH.htm
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: jhm731 on 27 Jun 2013, 05:34 pm
Positive Feedback's Oasis! Awards:

http://positive-feedback.com/Issue67/oasis_theshow.htm
Title: Re: T.H.E. Show - Newport Beach
Post by: ltr317 on 28 Jun 2013, 05:02 pm
Indeed, thanks a bunch Paul.  Glad to be included among your favorites.  We had a great time at the show and have already talked about coming back.  It will be a tall order, but we fully intend to outdo the Nimbus next year.

And James Darby over at Stereo Mojo put us in his list of favorites.

http://www.stereomojo.com/2013%20THE%20SHOW%20Newport%20Beach/2013THESHOWNEWPORTBEACH.htm

Hi Peter,

Out doing the Nimbus will be a near miracle.  I will follow the development with interest.


Cheers,
Paul Mah