Hi All,
My CA-1 is out for delivery. My most recent amps were the DVA M225s powering Vandersteen 2Ces, and most recently the SET 120 powering Salk HT-1 TLs. Well, I've moved into my endgame speaker, the 99db efficient Zu Soul 6s. Other than the Zus I've been without any reference gear, and they've been connected to a $199 best buy Yamaha, which has been surprisingly engaging via the Zus. I do now have a border patrol DAC and Eversolo streamer on loan so I'll be able to give the CA-1 a fair go powering the Zus before my end-game digital arrives in a few weeks. I'll certainly post thoughts here.
The other day Frank posted internal photos of the CA-1. Compared to the SET 120, it probably has twice as many internal parts, if not more, and I can't imagine it is not a more expensive build than the 120....yet Van Alstine is only charging $200 more for the CA-1 than the SET 120. This sort of customer first, value pricing when introducing a new product that is replacing a legacy product is simply unheard of in the audio industry, even amongst other fair-budget minded boutique operations. Even before getting delivery of the CA-1, this is the most impressive aspect.
Thanks again Frank, Mary and the whole crew!
Matt in Pewaukee Wisconsin USA