Reviews & Awards by Brand: B-F
Brinkmann
World class, high-end Turntables, DACs, Phonostages, Amps & Preamplifiers - from Germany
BRINKMANN Balance “State-of-Art” turntable - 6MOONS “Blue Moon” award.
RRP from NZ$41,995+
The Balance is one of the very few turntables that gets the timing right and invites the listener to see deeply into the music, to embrace and be moved by it
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With the Brinkmann Balance, you are not only buying a state-of-the-art turntable, you are buying a commitment to excellent service and to your ongoing enjoyment of the table. And given the Brinkmann Balance, enjoyment is the least of it. More likely you will find insight into music and into the importance of music in a full and, one might say, balanced life.
BRINKMANN Bardo “direct drive” turntable - Analogaholic “Product of the Year”
RRP from NZ$16,995+
I’ve purchased the review sample, the Bardo. It’s simple, elegant, yet high-performance design has captured my enthusiasm.
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Here’s why the Brinkmann Bardo is our choice for Analog Product of the Year; it offers tremendous value, build quality, sound quality and ease of use. I’ve listened to my fair share of US$100,000 plus turntables and have always walked away unimpressed. You can buy a pretty major hi-fi system for $100k, and I suggest if you take that path, you put the Bardo on top of your rack. Seriously, other than a few audio reviewers and a couple of hedge fund managers that got a screaming deal, who owns a $100,000 turntable anyway?
Wacky as it might sound, the US$10,000 – US$20,000 category is the hottest category for “destination” turntables. There are a handful of great tables costing 2-3 times this much (like the SME 30, the AVID Acutus REF SP and a few others), and they do reveal more music for sure. But again, the Brinkmann Bardo presents so much music, especially with your choice of awesome US$5,000 – $US10,000 cartridge, I’ll stick my neck out and say that most of us could live happily ever after right here.
If you’re currently using a table in the US$3,000 – US$5,000 category, you will be floored at just how much more musical information and nuance that the Bardo can shed light on, that if you have the purchasing power, this won’t be a difficult decision.
I’ve purchased the review sample and plan on spinning a lot more records on the Bardo. It’s simple, elegant, yet high-performance design has captured my enthusiasm. Should you be planning on buying a table in this price range, I not only recommend the Bardo, I sincerely hope you will audition one, and see if you enjoy it as much as I do.
BRINKMANN Edison tube Phonostage
RRP NZ$23,995
The sheer artistry Edison conveyed, a combination of the sublime and the beautiful, tracking every syllable, every quaver and every trill….
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What I felt with the Brinkmann Edison, time after time, was this sense that I had finally jumped ahead one level in my pursuit of great sound. You see, I’ve heard plenty of big systems in my life, especially over the last few years. I know what they sound like, what they can do, and why people spend the big money to get that last bit of musical information from the record grooves. I also know what a great system sounds like in my home,.
There are plenty of phono preamplifiers that cost more than the Brinkmann Edison Mk. II, and they might even offer better sound. What the Edison phono stage has accomplished, however, is a straightforward and exciting bridge to that bigger and more perfect sound, a sound that is rare and uncommon and makes you feel great about your life and how far you’ve come in this hobby. Highly recommended, and a Reviewer’s Choice.
BRINKMANN Nyqest tube DAC
RRP NZ$31,995
The Brinkmann Nyquist DAC is the most inviting-sounding DAC I have heard,
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Last comes that other aspect of quality – sound quality. And it’s here the Nyquist stands or falls. It stands. The performance of this device is so effortless, so natural, and so bloody enjoyable sounding, you are drawn ever deeper into your music, almost regardless of source or genre. This is especially true of DSD, a format I tend to pay lip service to because I have relatively few recordings that I truly enjoy. That said, I have some early Led Zeppelin DSD cuts of extraordinarly ‘iffy’ provenance, and through the Nyquist they took on a richness and full-bodied, full-throated sound that would be hard to hear anywhere else (I also have a set of Japanese CD pressings that get close). You get the feeling of John Bonham’s playing as barely-contained thunder unleashed on the unsuspecting tape machine, which is immensely satisfying. Unless you are the machine.
Perhaps the big and consistent sonic positive about the Brinkmann Nyquist is the complete absence of a mechanical or artificial sound. Some digital devices strive to recreate the digital signal in its absolute finery, others try to mask the sound of digital by imposing their own signature on the performance. The Nyquist is one of the few that does both at the same time (notable others include the Kalista in this issue, and the Nagra HD DAC, both of which make the Nyquist seem cheap).
Brodmann Acoustics
Considered the most “natural sounding” Loudspeakers - from renowned Vienna piano manufacturer
BRODMANN F2 floorstand
RRP NZ$TBA
The F2 sits at the top of the junior range,This is a very unassuming, effortless and untiring sound, speaker that I’d be happy to listen to all day.
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The F2 is a curious mix of the truly wonderful, and the occasionally flat-footed. But then, all loudspeakers are compromised, your weapon of choice depends on what you want it for, and I’d say the Brodmann F2’s compromises are well chosen, all things considered. In fact, the F2 exhibited little that drew attention in a negative way, which is why I’ve homed in on the bass a little more than it deserves. This is a very unassuming loudspeaker, which mostly just gets on with the job of communicating music. It has an effortless and untiring sound. Sometimes, untiring is code for boring and bland. Here, it just denotes a speaker I’d be happy to listen to all day.
I did find myself rediscovering a lot of my orchestral and choral music. Lately I’d been hanging out more with the jazz side of my collection, so it was nice to revisit some old favourites and hear them in a new light. Although it’s easy to overstate the classical link, it would also be fair to say that the Brodmanns are made for music like this. The sense of scale they offer for large musical forces, flooding the room with sound rather than throwing it at you, makes for an experience much more akin to sitting in the concert hall.
As I hinted in the opening paragraph, the Brodmann F2 has a ‘ten rows back’ presentation, rather than ‘front row stalls’, which is fine by me. So, if you want to wallow in the beauty of Brahms’ German Requiem, rather than be pinned to your seat by the massed musical forces, then the Brodmanns definitely deserve your serious attention. It’s a different style of delivery to many conventional loudspeakers, and in some ways it reminded me of a good panel such as the Magneplanar 1.7, albeit with more scale, power, and authority, but retaining that sense of unforced ease. There is definitely something very beguiling about the way the F2s set about their music-making. Highly recommended.
BRODMANN VC2 floorstand
RRP NZ$TBA
The VC 2 demonstrates great linearity and superb tonal balance delivering that being there feeling. VC2 will meet every musical style you place upon it, with superb ability to reproduce a violin with beautiful poise and delicacy.
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The size of the VC2 belies its true potential to truly transport you to your favourite musical event without fuss or drama with a naturally musical sound.
Brodmann's experience is making world class piano's can easily been seen and heard in their speaker designs, with rich tonal qualities, superb sustain and decay of the notes coupled with a true linear sound with taut articulate bass that is happy at home with Dire Straits as it is with Mozart, the VC 2's can transport you to your own musical nirvana whilst looking like a million dollars.
BRODMANN VC7 floorstand
RRP NZ$TBA
The VC7 is an intensely musical one that lovers of acoustic instruments, and classical music in particular, are likely to find extremely seductive
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For many listeners, especially those primarily into classical material, the VC7's combination of righteous dynamics, agile coherence and good timing will be fair compensation for its peculiarities. Its appearance and finish is quite wonderful, and it does offer an interesting alternative to conventional speakers.
All Brodmann Acoustics loudspeakers employ the company’s patented Acoustic Active Principle, which uses soundboard technology delivering an organic, linear bass response that is unique in the loudspeaker industry, and eliminates the needs for the typical “Band-Aid” used in virtually all other box loudspeaker designs. It makes possible the elimination of internal crossover manipulation and internal damping materials, both of which create problems and distortions in the attempts to tame internal bass resonances.
Brodmann Acoustics loudspeakers produce truly linear bass below 130Hz without generating, inside the cabinet, the standard distortions created by peak bass resonances in ported and acoustic-suspension designs;
Brodmann loudspeakers contain no internal damping. With none of the typical internal bass-resonant peaks to correct, the need for internal damping is eliminated, therefore allowing the upper-harmonic information to be fully reproduced, without the usual muffling of the lower midrange and upper bass that occurs as a byproduct of needing to damp cabinet distortions in the low bass.
Brodmann designs and manufactures all of its own drivers. All Brodmann loudspeakers feature piano-grade finishes from top to bottom. All loudspeaker models enjoy the same luxury-quality finishes as are found on Brodmann grand pianos—from eight-layer, hand-polished black lacquers to hand-selected, handcrafted veneers.
BRODMANN JB-175 floorstand
RRP NZ$TBA
Handcrafted statement speakers the result of 220 years of producing pianos, and acoustic designer Hans Deutsch’s 40 years of innovation, has as its hallmark the interplay of natural, organic reproduction of music and craftsmanship
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All Brodmann Acoustics loudspeakers employ the company’s patented Acoustic Active Principle, which uses soundboard technology delivering an organic, linear bass response that is unique in the loudspeaker industry, and eliminates the needs for the typical “Band-Aid” used in virtually all other box loudspeaker designs. It makes possible the elimination of internal crossover manipulation and internal damping materials, both of which create problems and distortions in the attempts to tame internal bass resonances.
Brodmann Acoustics loudspeakers produce truly linear bass below 130Hz without generating, inside the cabinet, the standard distortions created by peak bass resonances in ported and acoustic-suspension designs;
Brodmann loudspeakers contain no internal damping. With none of the typical internal bass-resonant peaks to correct, the need for internal damping is eliminated, therefore allowing the upper-harmonic information to be fully reproduced, without the usual muffling of the lower midrange and upper bass that occurs as a byproduct of needing to damp cabinet distortions in the low bass.
Brodmann designs and manufactures all of its own drivers. All Brodmann loudspeakers feature piano-grade finishes from top to bottom. All loudspeaker models enjoy the same luxury-quality finishes as are found on Brodmann grand pianos—from eight-layer, hand-polished black lacquers to hand-selected, handcrafted veneers.
Canton
Loudspeakers - High-End Iconic sound of the highest quality but at accessible price points. Using the latest technologies including NEW BCT diaphragm (Black Ceramic Tungsten) manufactured in Germany
CANTON Reference GS
RRP NZ$60,995/pr incl GST
This powerful sound artist an a masterpiece of engineering and meets perfection in craftsmanship with its new design.
CANTON Reference K50
RRP NZ$5,995ea incl GST
Perfect for reference level home theatre with Aluminium Ceramic Tungsten drivers
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Reference K50 Centre speaker
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Aluminium Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 220 watts Size: 700 x 210 x 350 mm
Best entertainment
The Reference 50 K center relies on the same high-quality features that distinguish all Reference K Series models. It differs in its horizontal design and overall smaller dimensions. At 70 centimeters wide, 21 centimeters high and 35 centimeters deep, it is nevertheless an impressive piece of speaker technology. The center spoils with the very finest Canton sound and delights with its incomparably noble surface finish, making the well-proportioned Canton Reference 50 K Center the center of a high-performance home theater system. In the 3-way speaker, two 174 mm drivers with ceramic tungsten cones provide the deepest bass and detailed mids. Thanks to the low-loss wave surrounds that clamp the midrange and woofer, and the outstandingly resolving ceramic tweeter, the Reference 50 K Center also impresses with excellent fine dynamics at low volumes. The acoustically optimized cabinet with its curved side walls and rounded edges ensures ideal dispersion characteristics.
Reference K through and through
The Reference 50 K center benefits immensely from its solid multi-layer laminate cabinet, which minimizes resonances that reduce sound quality. In the woofer and midrange, we use our most technically mature and advanced drivers in the 3-way center. We take advantage of the excellent material properties of aluminum-ceramic diaphragms refined with tungsten particles, which are characterized by their enormous rigidity combined with high, internal damping - and all this with very low weight and extended frequency range. The excellent 25 mm dome tweeter with aluminum oxide ceramic diaphragm is used in the tweeter. The Reference 50 K center is equipped with a high-quality biwiring/ biamping connection terminal, which allows the woofer and mid-high range to be driven separately with different amplifiers or with specialized cables. 24 carat gold-plated, sturdy screw terminals with a capacity for cable cross-sections up to 10 mm2, ensure optimum signal transmission.
Reference_50K_schwarz_links_oben
Surface sealing with depth effect
We develop and manufacture the loudspeaker systems of our Reference K Series in our factory in Weilrod in the Taunus region. This is the only way we can maintain the necessary quality standards, minimize tolerances, eliminate any defects, and keep the high sound requirements for our top products. The Reference 50 K center's cabinet is made of high-quality multi-layer laminate and undergoes a complex finishing process: the high-gloss "Piano Finish" surface sealant is applied, sanded and elaborately polished in twelve work steps. It gives the center's cabinet an overwhelming depth effect. As an alternative, we offer the Reference 50 K Center in an even more refined and visually truly impressive variant: the cabinet in cherry real wood veneer with "Piano Finish" is pure craftsmanship and inspires with its lively grain and wonderfully warm color tone. The acoustically optimized fabric cover, which is elegantly held on the baffle by magnetic fasteners, confidently rounds off the noble appearance of the Reference 50 K Center.
Reference_50K_schwarz_Anschluesse
Center of the system
Experience your movie collection and the latest blockbusters in a whole new way with the Reference 50 K center. It becomes the centerpiece of the ultimate home theater system, which you can build with the Reference K Series models, according to your personal preferences and sound requirements. With its powerful and resilient design, the Reference 50 K Center is the perfect partner for all Reference K models - from the Reference 9 K compact speaker to the flagship Reference 1 K. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled sound adventure, with exquisite dialogue intelligibility, finest detail resolution, room-filling effects presentation and incredible dynamics. For a perfect connection to your amplifier(s) or AV receiver(s), consider the CantoLink 600 speaker cable, available in our online store. It is a high-end speaker cable developed by our partner in-akustik, which tickles the best possible sound quality out of the speakers.
The Reference 50 K center benefits immensely from its solid multi-layer laminate cabinet, which minimizes resonances that reduce sound quality. In the woofer and midrange, we use our most technically mature and advanced drivers in the 3-way center. We take advantage of the excellent material properties of aluminum-ceramic diaphragms refined with tungsten particles, which are characterized by their enormous rigidity combined with high, internal damping - and all this with very low weight and extended frequency range. The excellent 25 mm dome tweeter with aluminum oxide ceramic diaphragm is used in the tweeter. The Reference 50 K center is equipped with a high-quality biwiring/ biamping connection terminal, which allows the woofer and mid-high range to be driven separately with different amplifiers or with specialized cables. 24 carat gold-plated, sturdy screw terminals with a capacity for cable cross-sections up to 10 mm2, ensure optimum signal transmission.
Surface sealing with depth effect
We develop and manufacture the loudspeaker systems of our Reference K Series in our factory in Weilrod in the Taunus region. This is the only way we can maintain the necessary quality standards, minimize tolerances, eliminate any defects, and keep the high sound requirements for our top products. The Reference 50 K center's cabinet is made of high-quality multi-layer laminate and undergoes a complex finishing process: the high-gloss "Piano Finish" surface sealant is applied, sanded and elaborately polished in twelve work steps. It gives the center's cabinet an overwhelming depth effect. As an alternative, we offer the Reference 50 K Center in an even more refined and visually truly impressive variant: the cabinet in cherry real wood veneer with "Piano Finish" is pure craftsmanship and inspires with its lively grain and wonderfully warm color tone. The acoustically optimized fabric cover, which is elegantly held on the baffle by magnetic fasteners, confidently rounds off the noble appearance of the Reference 50 K Center.
Center of the system
Experience your movie collection and the latest blockbusters in a whole new way with the Reference 50 K center. It becomes the centerpiece of the ultimate home theater system, which you can build with the Reference K Series models, according to your personal preferences and sound requirements. With its powerful and resilient design, the Reference 50 K Center is the perfect partner for all Reference K models - from the Reference 9 K compact speaker to the flagship Reference 1 K. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled sound adventure, with exquisite dialogue intelligibility, finest detail resolution, room-filling effects presentation and incredible dynamics. For a perfect connection to your amplifier(s) or AV receiver(s), consider the CantoLink 600 speaker cable, available in our online store. It is a high-end speaker cable developed by our partner in-akustik, which tickles the best possible sound quality out of the speakers.
CANTON Reference 1
RRP NZ$35,995/pr
This powerful sound artist an a masterpiece of engineering. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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NEW Reference 1
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Black Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 820 watts Size: 390 x 1330 x 630 mm Weight: 81kg ea
Imposing, powerful and true to their shape - that's the new Reference 1. Equipped with the most modern technology we have to offer in loudspeaker construction, it sets the standard for the future. This powerful sound artist is a masterpiece of engineering and meets perfection in craftsmanship with its new design. The flawless surface finish combined with our best speaker drivers make them a true musical statement.
New material
The benchmark is the new BCT cones used in the midrange and bass. These BCT drivers are the result of years of development and guarantee highly dynamic and highly accurate performance. For exceptional precision and clarity in the treble, the new tweeters feature BC cones made of black alumina ceramic. The Reference 1 speakers' cabinets have been acoustically optimised and feature a seamless design that ensures an edgeless connection between the baffles, rear panels and side panels. This design sets new standards in terms of dispersion, stability and low resonance.
Design and technology
A great deal of focus is placed on the craftsmanship of the handmade Reference 1 speakers. The cabinets are divided into three chambers that are perfectly matched to the different parts of the 3-way speaker construction. This allows each of the five drivers to develop its sonic qualities to the full. The bass is produced by three 219 mm woofers with ceramic tungsten cones. These, together with the newly designed bass guide, provide clear and dynamic low frequency reproduction down to 18 Hertz. The 174 mm midrange driver uses the same cone material as the woofers, providing seamless midrange dynamics. The midrange driver is deliberately placed in the upper part of the speaker and contributes significantly to the authentic reproduction of voices and stage presence. The drivers are recessed into the round baffle and are complemented by special ASW (Asymmetric Waveguide) cover rings made of POM material. These rings act as waveguides in the tweeter and midrange to optimise dispersion.
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New Refereence GS Edition
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Aluminium Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 950 watts Size: 46o x 163o x 720o mm Weight: 155kg ea
The masterpiece
The Reference GS from Canton is the result of an extensive study initiated by our company founder Günther Seitz. His aim was to develop the ultimate Canton Reference loudspeaker. With great passion and energy, ideas were collected and plans forged, with personal preferences for the cabinet material and surface design playing an important role. Unconstrained by restrictions, the technical director involved in the project endeavoured to push the limits of what was technically possible to create the best sounding and best performing loudspeaker in Canton's history. The entire Canton team was then involved in the project to carefully consider and realise every aspect of this dream loudspeaker. In over 50 years of company history, never before has a loudspeaker been developed and manufactured with this level of complexity. The result of this intensive work is the impressive Reference GS floorstanding loudspeaker, which emphasises the uniqueness and exclusivity of the Reference GS with its outstanding acoustic properties, captivating design and exquisite build quality.
Uncompromising technology
Round baffles were designed for the Reference GS, as they are also used in the new Reference series. These 81 millimetre thick baffles are manufactured on a special 5-axis CNC milling machine. The elaborately curved side panels, bases and lids are made of multi-layer, 30-millimetre-thick wood laminate, which ensures that the cabinets are extremely stable. In addition, the side panels with fine real wood veneer, which are firmly attached to the side panels, significantly increase the weight of the enclosures. This further stiffens the enclosures and significantly reduces the natural resonance behaviour of the speaker enclosure. The sweeping curves enable an acoustically optimised enclosure design, whose freedom from edges effectively prevents edge reflections. Six speaker chassis are responsible for music reproduction in the 155 kg 3-way loudspeaker: four 218 mm BCT woofers, strategically positioned on the baffle, deliver an impressive performance in the large cabinet volume in combination with the efficient bass guide system. The 174 mm diameter BCT midrange driver, which is positioned high up, ensures a lively and authentic reproduction of the sound. For the first time in Canton's history, a diamond dome tweeter has been used for the 25 mm tweeter. This cone material enables substantial tweeter reproduction with the finest detail. The tweeter retains its accuracy and natural reproduction even at the highest volumes - completely effortless and stress-free.
Unique design
The Reference GS are a statement: the mighty floor-standing loudspeakers with a height of more than 160 centimetres and a weight of 155 kilograms impress with high-quality materials and genuine craftsmanship. Despite their imposing dimensions, the Reference GS loudspeakers, which are painstakingly handcrafted, are elegant in design and spoil you with their exquisite workmanship and impressive surface finish. The designers of the Reference GS harmoniously combine elements of wood, metal and lacquer to create an irresistible work of art. The result is a speaker that not only fulfils the highest demands in terms of sound, but also aesthetically.
CONTACT-FRIENDLY
The Canton Reference GS has a solid aluminium panel on the back of the housing, covering almost the entire height, which provides an adequate space for the high-end connection terminals from WBT and underlines the quality of the speaker. The nextgen connections from the renowned German manufacturer WBT from Essen offer the best possible sound quality as well as a long-term stable contact to the speaker cables used. The Reference GS can be operated in bi-wiring or bi-amping mode to explore the sound. If you do not want to use the bi-wiring or bi-amping mode, you can also operate the Reference GS in single-wiring mode. For this purpose, high-quality cable bridges consisting of WBT nextgen cable lugs and CantoLink 600 cables (manufactured by the renowned cable manufacturer in-akustik) are included in the scope of delivery. The Reference GS has controls for Canton's RC (Room Compensation) technology. This function allows the sound pressure levels of the mid-range and tweeters to be sensitively adjusted in 1.5 decibel increments. In addition, the bass range can be influenced in 1.5 decibel steps in order to adapt the speakers to the room acoustics and to cater for personal sound preferences.
TECHNOLOGY
The Reference GS are a statement: the mighty floor-standing loudspeakers with a height of more than 160 centimetres and a weight of 155 kilograms impress with high-quality materials and genuine craftsmanship. Despite their imposing dimensions, the Reference GS loudspeakers, which are painstakingly handcrafted, are elegant in design and spoil you with their exquisite workmanship and impressive surface finish. The designers of the Reference GS harmoniously combine elements of wood, metal and lacquer to create an irresistible work of art. The result is a speaker that not only fulfils the highest demands in terms of sound, but also aesthetically.
CANTON Reference 9
RRP NZ$11,500/pr incl GST
Perfect for reference level stereo reproduction and home theatre. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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New Reference 9 stand mtg
Design: 2-way bass reflex system Drivers: Black Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 220 watts Size: 260W x 450H x 390D mm Weight: 18kg ea
SOUND WONDER
Our knowledge from over 50 years of speaker construction combined in compact and acoustically pristine speakers - the Reference 9. Equipped with the technologies of a floorstanding speaker, they offer the potential to fill even larger rooms thanks to the large mid-bass driver. The bass guide, used for the first time in a compact speaker, is an integral part of the speaker base and allows uncomplicated placement on sideboards or freely in the room with the ideally matching speaker stands "Reference LS". Thanks to precise tuning in the laboratory and listening room and the use of high-quality crossover components, the 2-way speakers offer great sound from compact cabinets.
Modern technology
The compact Reference 9 loudspeakers feature one 174 mm BCT cone per loudspeaker, which offers high rigidity and outstanding internal damping at a low dead weight. The BCT cone enables precise and accurate reproduction of the low and midrange. The perfect playing partner for the bass-midrange driver is the 25 mm BC tweeter, which shines with its detailed and transparent reproduction and impressively underpins the excellent sound quality of the Reference 9. A large part of the excellent sound of the speaker is the precisely designed crossover, which is equipped with hand-selected components. The Reference 9 are equipped with WBT nextgen™ connection terminals, which enable a contact-safe and loss-free connection between the speakers and the amplifier. The connection terminal is equipped with our RC technology, which allows for sensitive tweeter adjustment in 1.5 decibel increments. The level adjustment allows the compact speakers to be adapted to listening preferences or to have a corrective effect on the existing room acoustics.
Design
We develop and manufacture our Reference loudspeaker systems at our factory in Weilrod in the Taunus region of Germany. To achieve the best possible sound development from compact cabinets, we have developed the Reference 9 cabinets from scratch. They feature generous radii on the side panels, bottoms and lids, and have a round baffle to realize the greatest possible edge clearance of the cabinet. This design concept reduces diffraction effects at the edges and contributes significantly to optimizing the speaker's sound dispersion. A computer-optimized chamber system and the sophisticated internal stiffening prevent standing waves and sound-damaging cabinet resonances. The high-gloss "Black Piano" surface sealant is applied in twelve layers, sanded and elaborately polished. It gives the Reference 9's cabinet an overwhelming sense of depth. As an alternative, the speakers are available in the "White Satin" finish. Acoustically optimized fabric covers adhere magnetically to the baffle for each chassis individually and round off the noble appearance of the compact Reference 9 sovereign.
Ideal combination
Thanks to their superior technical features, the compact Reference 9s fill even large rooms with music effortlessly. To achieve this perfectly, you should place your speakers on the matching "Reference LS" stands from Canton. The Reference 9 are also ideal as surround and effect speakers in a large Reference home cinema set-up. Together with the visually and acoustically perfectly matched Reference Center, the powerful active subwoofer from the Reference series and a Reference floorstanding speaker of your choice, you can create an impressive multi-channel home cinema system that leaves nothing to be desired.
CANTON Reference 2
RRP NZ$28,995/pr
New Reference 2 perfect for reference stereo reproduction and home theatre. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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NEW Reference 2
As an imposing 3-way floorstanding loudspeaker, the Reference 2 has the potential to provide exceptional and uncompromising listening pleasure even in very large rooms. With the advantages of smaller proportions compared to the flagship of the series, they are perfect for reference level stereo reproduction and are also an excellent choice for home theatre applications.
Visually and technically innovative
The cabinets of the Canton Reference 2 are designed according to the latest acoustic findings free of edges. Their elegant form follows function, resulting in a speaker with remarkable characteristics: in addition to its modern design, it is also extremely stable and provides a perfect basis for sound-optimized radiation. The workmanship of the cabinets is of the highest quality and allows for aesthetic integration in any living environment. Four speaker drivers operate in a 3-chamber system, offering perfectly sized volumes for each branch of the 3-way speaker design. The double-bass configuration with 219 mm woofers, in conjunction with the optimised dispersion ratio of the latest generation bass guide, ensures enormous low bass, while also allowing flexible placement of the Reference 2 in the listening room. The 174 mm midrange driver, which is deliberately positioned at the top of the speaker, ensures authentic, lively reproduction of voices. Visually and acoustically the ideal complement is the powerful BC tweeter with 25 mm dome tweeter made of black aluminium oxide ceramic.
Sound optimised
The Reference 2 loudspeakers integrate all drivers flush into the round baffle with the aid of the new three-dimensional ASW (Asymmetric Waveguide Ring) cover rings made of polyoxymethylene (POM). These optimise the dispersion characteristics in the high-frequency and midrange ranges. The enclosure design is focused on sound optimisation and uses strong multi-layer laminate and sophisticated damping and internal stiffening for low-resonance enclosures. The new crossovers with epoxy resin-glass fabric composite and a copper overlay of 70 µm allows for large dim-ionized conductor cross sections. The arrangement of components on the crossover minimises magnetic field interference. This precise design and the use of high-quality components ensure optimum performance and precise sound.
Processing and surfaces
The Reference 2 speakers are manufactured with the utmost care and precision in Germany, at the company headquarters in Weilrod. Thanks to the use of first-class materials and components, consistent and precise quality is guaranteed. The Reference 2 is available in three exquisitely designed finishes that underscore the high standards of the Reference series. The high-quality walnut veneer is refined using a special sanding technique and matte lacquer treatment, resulting in a captivating, fine-pored surface.
Modern technology
For the completely newly conceived Reference Series enclosures, round baffles were designed for the first time, which are manufactured on a 5-axis CNC milling machine specially provided for this purpose. The elaborately curved side walls, bottoms and lids provide enormous stability and significantly reduced natural resonance behaviour of the speaker enclosure. As a result, the Reference 5 offer a very homogeneous dispersion behaviour and an authentic staggering of the music. The Reference 5 speakers feature two 174 mm BCT woofers equipped with black ceramic tungsten cones. These work in perfect harmony with the large enclosure volume and efficient bass guide system to deliver contour-sharp low end and rich deep bass. The equally sized BCT midrange driver, housed in its own enclosure, contributes to a natural and authentic sound image with finely resolved mids. The sound spectrum is rounded off by the 25 mm BC tweeter with black aluminium oxide ceramic cone, which ensures detailed and homogeneous highs.
Contact
The Reference 2 speakers are equipped with WBT's low-mass nextgen™ binding posts and high-quality gold-plated copper bridges, enabling single, bi-wiring and bi-amping operation. Thanks to their significantly lower mass compared to conventional binding posts, eddy currents are reduced, resulting in a superior sound image. The terminal plate of the Reference 2 speaker terminal has been extended by a level adjustment (Room Compensation). This allows the sound pressure levels of the midrange and tweeter to be precisely raised or lowered in 1.5 decibel steps, optimising the speakers for a variety of listening room characteristics and listening positions.
CANTON Reference 7
RRP NZ$13,995/pr incl GST
Perfect for reference level stereo reproduction and home theatre. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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New Reference 7
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Black Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 320 watts Size: 280W x 980H x 430D mm Weight: 3kg ea
TRUE SIZE
Pure aesthetics, breathtaking performance - as the slimmest floorstanding speakers in the Reference series, the Reference 7s blend harmoniously into any room. Despite their compact size, the speakers impress with deep bass response and high dynamics. This is made possible by the precisely tuned cabinet with bass guide that uses the two woofers with black ceramic tungsten cones. The Reference 7 uses our highest quality BC and BCT drivers on the round baffle. They are elegantly covered by intricately crafted, screwless adapter rings. As in all Reference models, they are designed as asymmetrical wave guides to perfect the sound dispersion of the speakers. All models in the Reference family are manufactured in Germany with the highest quality and precision. The slim 3-way Reference 7 floorstanding speaker impresses with its perfectly formed design and offers long-lasting pleasure in music reproduction thanks to high-quality materials, first-class components and the latest Canton technologies.
Convincing technology
The Reference 7 are elegant 3-way speakers equipped with first-class speaker drivers. Two impulse-joyful 154 mm BCT woofers with black ceramic tungsten cones deliver precise bass. This is achieved in combination with the efficient bass guide system and a perfectly tuned cabinet volume. The BCT midrange driver, also 154 millimeters, provides finely resolved, impulsive mids that contribute to the Reference 7's natural and authentic sound. The 25 mm BC tweeter with black aluminum oxide ceramic cone completes the sound spectrum and delivers detailed and homogeneous highs. In the crossover, hand-picked components with minimal tolerance specifications ensure a balanced impedance curve and perfect impulse response of the speaker drivers. The careful tuning of the crossover enables a perfect interaction of the drivers and thus achieves optimal sound quality.
WBT nextgen™ terminals
The Reference 7 are not only outstanding floorstanding speakers in terms of sound quality and design, but also offer innovative connection options, with the option of bi-wiring or bi-amping. With the high-quality WBT nextgen™ binding posts, the Reference 7 ensure optimal signal transmission to the connected audio devices. Thanks to the included hard gold-plated copper bridges, you can exploit the full potential of the speakers should the bi-wiring or bi-amping mode not be used. The speaker is equipped with controls for RC (Room Compensation) technology located on the speaker terminal. This level adjustment allows you to precisely adjust the sound pressure levels of the midrange and tweeter in sensitive 1.5 decibel increments. In this way, you can perfectly adapt the Reference 7 to your personal listening habits and the room acoustics.
Impressive design
The Reference 7 is equipped with an elaborate, computer-optimized internal stiffening, which was developed to achieve optimum stability and rigidity in the speaker cabinet. Precisely defined damping made of special fleece and the avoidance of parallel cabinet surfaces make it possible to prevent standing waves inside the cabinets. The speakers are available in three elegant finishes to suit any interior style: White Satin, Black Piano and Walnut. The white variant gives the speakers a modern and timeless appearance. Its satin finish adds a sophisticated touch to the Reference 7, allowing it to stand out stylishly in any room. The black piano finish of the Reference 7 impresses with its glossy, mirrored surface, which achieves a special depth effect through twelve layers of lacquer. For lovers of modern wood surfaces, the walnut version is available. The high-quality walnut veneer is refined with a special sanding technique and matte lacquer treatment and thus impresses with its fine-pored surface The warm wood finish gives the Reference 7 a natural and appealing aesthetic.
CANTON Reference 3
RRP NZ$24,995/pr
New Reference 3 perfect for reference stereo reproduction and home theatre. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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NEW Reference 3
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Black Ceramic tungsten technology Music load capacity: 500 watts Size: 325 x 1090 x 490 mm) Weight: 42kg ea
The new Reference 3
The edge-free design of the Reference 3, with curved cabinet roundings not only ensures a modern design - it is the basis for perfect sound development, which is characterized by authentic spatial imaging and staggering of the music. Two woofers with high-strength BCT cones made of black ceramic tungsten and the large midrange driver made of the same material ensure excellent dynamic characteristics in the perfectly tuned 3-way speaker. In the BCT diaphragm, 25 percent of the molecular structure of an aluminum cone is converted into a ceramic structure and refined with tungsten and additional metal particles. As a result, the diaphragms achieve a perfect stiffness-to-weight ratio and turn black on the front and back surfaces during the creation process. In addition, the specially shaped black midrange ceramic cone in TCC technology stabilizes the membrane and reduces unwanted resonances. Thus, we achieve a precise and distortion-free reproduction. At the same time, the latest generation bass guide design allows uncomplicated placement of the speakers in medium-sized rooms with even distribution of bass waves.
Modern technology
The Reference 3 speakers contain the musical and sonic characteristics of their larger Reference siblings. For the impressive sound image, they use the BCT cones, the technically latest components in the mid- and low-frequency range. High-quality crossover components in the filter network, such as generously dimensioned air coils, low-loss metal oxide resistors and film capacitors, enable perfect interaction between the four speaker drivers. All drivers are clamped in triple folded wave surrounds, which allow enormous excursions and can thus generate intense dynamics. The two 192 mm woofers can fully develop in the ideal cabinet volume and deliver deep, powerful bass up to 20 Hertz with the support of the bass guide. The 174 mm midrange driver, with its broadband action in the frequency range from 180 Hertz to 3,000 Hertz, which is important for localization, provides a desired point source dispersion. The trio is rounded off by the precise 25 mm tweeter with black membrane made of aluminum oxide ceramic.
Sweeping design
The 109-centimeter-high Reference 3 are powerful speakers in elegantly shaped cabinets. Their curved side panels, gently sloping curved tops and round baffles create a flowing, harmonious design that skillfully conceals the large cabinet volumes. The newly designed base is not only a stable foundation for the speaker - it also forms the bass guide, which selectively radiates low-frequency tones to the front and back of the room in equal parts. Thanks to the newly developed asymmetrical cover rings, the four loudspeaker drivers sit flush with the surface and without visible screw connections in the baffle. In addition, the cover rings act as waveguides, optimizing sound dispersion in the midrange and treble range. Four individual, acoustically transparent and form-fitting fabric covers nestle against the baffle with magnetic adhesion
Elegant appearance
We develop and manufacture the Reference loudspeakers in our factory in Weilrod in the Taunus region. The Reference 3 cabinets, which are made of high-quality multi-layer laminate, are extremely stable and undergo extensive surface finishing. Twelve layers of lacquer are required for the high-gloss black version with "piano finish" alone. Layer by layer, the cabinets are lacquered, sanded and finally polished. The result is a flawless high-gloss piano lacquer with an overwhelming depth effect. Equally impressive are the alternatively available finishes in white satin, which perfectly set off our Reference 3 in combination with the matte black diaphragms.
Perfect contact
The Reference 3's high-end binding posts come from established German manufacturer WBT. The low-mass WBT nextgen™ binding posts enable single, bi-wiring and bi-amping operation. The lower mass of the binding posts reduces eddy currents and ensures a superior sound image. If you do not want to use the bi-wiring or bi-amping mode, high-quality hard-gold-plated copper bridges are included.
CANTON Reference 5
RRP NZ$18,995/pr incl GST
Perfect for reference level stereo reproduction and home theatre. All-new Black Ceramic Tungsten drivers with advanced bass wave-guide for optimised frequency delivery and separation.
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ICONIC SOUND - The new Reference 5
Design: 3-way bass reflex system Drivers: Black Ceramic tungsten technology Max power: 370 watts Size: 300W x 1010H x 460D mm) Weight: 38kg ea
Modern technology
For the completely newly conceived Reference Series enclosures, round baffles were designed for the first time, which are manufactured on a 5-axis CNC milling machine specially provided for this purpose. The elaborately curved side walls, bottoms and lids provide enormous stability and significantly reduced natural resonance behaviour of the speaker enclosure. As a result, the Reference 5 offer a very homogeneous dispersion behaviour and an authentic staggering of the music. The Reference 5 speakers feature two 174 mm BCT woofers equipped with black ceramic tungsten cones. These work in perfect harmony with the large enclosure volume and efficient bass guide system to deliver contour-sharp low end and rich deep bass. The equally sized BCT midrange driver, housed in its own enclosure, contributes to a natural and authentic sound image with finely resolved mids. The sound spectrum is rounded off by the 25 mm BC tweeter with black aluminium oxide ceramic cone, which ensures detailed and homogeneous highs.
New diaphragms
The midrange and woofer systems of all Reference loudspeakers are characterised by their advanced BCT cones. In the BCT diaphragm, 25 percent of the molecular structure of an aluminium cone is converted into a ceramic structure and refined with tungsten and additional metal particles. As a result, the diaphragms achieve a perfect stiffness-to-weight ratio and turn black on the front and back surfaces during the creation process. In addition, the specially shaped black midrange ceramic cone in TCC technology stabilises the membrane and reduces unwanted resonances. This is how we achieve precise and distortion-free reproduction. To optimise the sound, our latest generation Wave Beading technology is used in the Reference 5. This ensures a smooth transient response even at high volumes and large diaphragm excursions.
Contact
The Reference 5 speakers are equipped with high-quality WBT nextgen™ connectors and allow bi-wiring and bi-amping. These connectors are the basis for excellent sound quality and provide long-term stable contact. If you do not want to use the bi-wiring or bi-amping mode, high-quality hard-gold-plated copper bridges are included. The Reference 5s feature controls on the speaker terminal for Canton's RC (Room Compensation) technology. With this level adjustment, the sound pressure levels of the midrange and tweeter can be sensitively adjusted in 1.5 decibel steps. This allows the speakers to be optimally adapted to personal listening tastes and room acoustics.
Cabinets
The cabinets of the Reference 5 loudspeakers convince with the best quality of workmanship and noble surfaces, which allow a seamless aesthetic integration into any living environment. They are available in two finishes: The black piano high-gloss lacquer version achieves an impressive depth effect thanks to the high number of twelve lacquer layers. Equally impressive is the silk-matte finish of the white housing version, which ensures an understatedly elegant and refined appearance in your living spaces.
Copland
Copland prides itself on its production of a boutique range of exquisite Integrated amps and a Headphone amp, since 1984 in Denmark
COPLAND CTA407 Flagship Tube Integrated amp
RRP NZ$9,895
The CTA405 integrated tube amplifier, has been an object of desire for audiophiles worldwide since its launch more than a decade
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The CTA405 amplifier, an object of desire for audiophiles worldwide since its launch more than a decade ago
with the low distortion of triodes and the power of tetrode valves,
Using 6550 or KT-family tubes delivers 100w/ch or alternatively delivers 2x50W in high biased class A/AB mode, this means that the amplifier can deliver most its power in class A state.
The CTA407 will automatically via a lossless automatisation of the bias adjustment adjust for any tube in the 6550/KT88/KT120/KT150 family
The CTA407 employs five line-level inputs including a tape monitor loop and a built-in RIAA phono circuit accommodating moving magnet, as well as high output moving coil cartridges
Copland CSA150 hybrid Integrated amp
RRP NZ$9,850 to $!0,250
A musical, serious amp, with a difference, its tonal subtlety and the way it conjures up sonic landscapes and paints pictures between your speakers.
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This is an amplifier that does everything that is asked of it. It has a wonderful blend of musicality, pace and timing. It is even handed across its frequency range, at least that part of its frequency range that my system could resolve. It is not fatiguing to listen to for hours on end and if coupled with suitably capable sources and loudspeakers it should be the final stop in many an audio lover’s quest for the ideal amplifier.
The CSA100 was awarded our coveted Editor’s Choice award in September 2020, and was a shoo-in for one of my product of the year nominations. Although we are only in July I am pretty confident that the CSA150 will be on my list this year, and I leave it to our editor to make his decision separately. For me, this is the perfect blend of cool Scandinavian styling and first class engineering.
COPLAND CSA100 - hybrid Integrated amp
RRP NZ$7,895 to $8,195
Its very effective because of all the benefits it can offer; incl. superb detail retrieval and excellent tonal accuracy, 2 qualities realised without the slightly sterile edge
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The CSA 100 is a rare beast in hi-fi terms in that it manages to be almost absurdly competent, but never feels dull or soulless in doing so. There’s nothing within the extensive specification that feels anything other than exactingly thought out, but beyond that it rarely fails to delight across its many inputs and a very broad spectrum of music. Throw in the superb build and rather lovely appearance, and you have an absolutely outstanding amplifier that’s likely to delight anyone who spends any time with it.
COPLAND DAC-215 DAC / Preamp / Headphone amp
RRP NZ$3,995
Connected to a computer or music server the DA215 will process audio data of extremely high resolution.
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Traditionalists who remain slightly dismissive of the personal audio world will see this device as a lovely sounding DAC that can also do ‘that headphone thing’ very well, and personal audio enthusiasts will see a lovely sounding headphone amplifier and DAC that can speak to traditionalists and their audio equipment
darTZeel
State-of-Art, stunning sounding, Amplifiers - from Switzerland. (used in my personal system)
darTZeel CTH-8550 integrated amp
RRP NZ$79,995 to NZ$84,995
The 1st integrated amplifier designed without compromise. Chosen as the amp of choice by many serious audio enthusiasts.
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I was floored by the CTH-8550's quality, performance, and convenience. It is a dream component.
Eventually, the question concerning the darTZeel CT-8550 MKII may not be “can you afford one– but sooner or later, when will you be able to purchase one?” I am still anxiously waiting!
darTZeel NHB-18NS Preamplifier
NZ$125,000 to NZ$140,000
The NHB-18NS is peerless in terms of clarity and musicality.. It offers state-of-the-art preampfification and control, a device that is a functional work of art.
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When you've reached this level of excellence, you move into the arena of personal taste. If your system has the resolving power, you cannot go wrong with the 18NS. In fact, if you don't need complex control functionality, you'll be in heaven with the darTZeel. I bet that for many, it will be a lifetime purchase. It is that rarest of breeds, a revolutionary state-of-the-art preamp that breaks new ground with its design, execution and performance. If you're in the market for a state-of-the-art preamp or just want to hear the results of one man's lifelong passion and brilliance, track one down and listen to it. Highly recommended.
dartTZeel NHB-108 model 2 stereo power amp
RRP NZ$125,000
Often envied, never equalled.
The NHB-108 is the ultimate dual-mono amplifier.with a “golden sound that will keep enticing many a music lover back for more”.
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DarTZeel's NHB-108 model two, the latest iteration of darTZeel's first product, is among the most satisfyingly musical amplifiers to ever sing in my system. Rather than hit you over the head with its strengths, it seduces with its exceptional embrace of music's essence. Details frequently submerged in the sonic fabric surface with a delicacy and rightness that illumine what you've previously been missing. This holds true for intimate solo vocals, classical chamber music, and big-boned rock, jazz, orchestral music, and opera. Especially when paired with its matching NHB-18NS preamplifier and top-line Zeel 50 ohm BNC interconnects, the NHB-108 model two sounds disarmingly transparent, real, present, and alive.
When matched with speakers that present challenging loads to amplifiers, the NHB-108 model two's bass can't equal that from more powerful amplifiers. Some who fall under its spell may be tempted to follow Delétraz's advice and change their speakers. There is an inherently nonmechanical, organic flow to the NHB-108 model two's golden sound that will keep enticing many a music lover back for more.
darTZeel NHB468 monoblock power amps
RRP est NZ$500,000/pr
Power, elegance and grace.
darTZeel's NHB-468 monoblock amplifiers represent the pinnacle. Winner of The Absolute Sound “Golden Ear Award”.
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TAS - The Absolute Sound Golden Ear award:
These glamorous, gold-and-crimson Swiss amplifiers offer a level of performance that is truly bedazzling. One moment they are belting out an orchestral or piano crescendo with absolute authority, the next they are plunging into a quiet abyss of sound with impressive control and transparency. With up to 2000 watts on tap, the darTZeel is a powerhouse of an amp that effortlessly traverses the summits of musical reproduction. For one thing, the amp is a real toe-tapper. It commands an alacrity and dynamic liveliness that few, if any, of its brethren possess, allowing it to reproduce transients with an explosive power that is pretty darn close to the real thing. Add in a tonal accuracy throughout the frequency spectrum that ensures the proper weight in the bass region and endows the treble with a delightful mellifluity, banishing any lingering sense of electronic artifacts that can render prolonged listening a chore, particularly on digital recordings. Throughout, it simply seems imperturbable, no matter the musical demands. When matched with the elegant custom stands crafted by Thixar’s CEO Dirk Ruedell, the results are heavenly, indeed. Oh, the places you’ll go! The bottom line: In designing these magnificent amplifiers, Herve Deletraz has outdone himself.
Davone
Stunning loudspeakers of exceptional Scandinavian design, elegance and performance, made in Denmark.
Davone Meander all-in-one active Omni directional speaker & streamer
RRP NZ$7,995 each
Winner of hiFi+ 2022 award
For those who prefer an elegant, designer, compact solution, without compromise, the award winning “All-in-One” omni-directional Meander speaker delivers room filling stereo from just one cabinet
Streaming Services:
Spotify Connect, Tidal, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, Apple Airply2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, DLNA
Speaker Ipincludes:
200w amplifier / DSP (digital sound processing) / Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5Ghz) for high-performance streaming
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He concluded by saying, “I think the Davone Meander is a game changer for contemporary, metropolitan listeners. It’s an extremely elegant design in the Scandinavian sense, and it understands that we all live out of our smartphones and not only accepts that but makes it an intrinsic part of its functionality. And best of all, it sounds fun without making it seem like ‘funishment’. If you like those clean lines and aren’t one for overdamped, heavily furnished living rooms, the Meander is mighty!”
Davone Moxie (designer) speakers
RRP NZ$5,500/pr
Moxie is synonymous with courage and you will understand the name when you hear it play. No matter what kind of music; the full and articulate bass, open midrange and clear highs will open up your music and the Moxie will make it all seem effortless.
Reviewers comments:
”Moxie are for those seeking beauty, relaxation, emotions, to those who want to be drawn into the world of the musical event created before them, through the naturalness, fluidity and coherence of a relaxed sound. The treble is really delicious. These small floor-standing devices, build a large, open, air-filled stage, precisely placing large virtual sources on it”.
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Danish loudspeakers
Danish designed loudspeakers with the latest technology ensure the Moxie delivers on its promises: symmetric magnetic motor, solid aluminium basket, extensive venting, to name a fewControlled directivity
By integrating the cabinet design, cross over and drivers, the Moxie has a controlled directivity of sound, meaning the Moxie is less critical to the listening room acousticsHand build in Denmark
Build by hand in the for Denmark typical small scale production adds a personal touch to each loudspeaker.Select your veneer
Visit the Factory >> and be there during the build. You will be able to select the veneer you like bestFinely tuned cross over
the elaborate 24 dB/oct Linkwitz - Riley cross over gives more upper mid range energy for a more open sound and improves the tweeter high power performance.Clean upper bass
The acoustic design of the cabinet effectively reduces internal standing waves around 200Hz for improved clarityDanish Design
Carefully considered curves are the heart of each unique Davone design. The perfect rhythm and balance of the design visualize music.
Davone Twist (designer) speakers
RRP NZ$9,500/pr - NZ$13,300/pr
Featuring uniquely twisted side panels, a High Resolution cross-over, and Danish designed drivers, the Twist offers optimized 2-way performance tailored for discerning listeners. Its moderate size and elegant design make it a seamless addition to various home decor styles. Additionally, the Twist can be customised with optional WiSA or WiFi wireless connectivity upon request, ensuring a versatile and modern audio experience.
With the optional WiFi module, the Twist becomes a stand alone music system. With integrated Airplay2, Chromecast and Bluetooth, you can seamlessly stream music directly from your favorite music apps. You can also connect the Twist to your TV with HDMI ARC for complete integration.
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The Twist is a higher-cost far lower-volume piece of classy furniture which makes zero concessions to flex. But it sings to you very sweetly; or growls at you if that's the type singer you cue up. The furniture link is no writerly liberty to make a smooth entry. It's very real.
The gorgeous design aesthetic is matched by exceptional performance. Combine that with meticulous Danish craftsmanship and you have an audiophile-quality speaker that is a treat for the senses. Any of the Davone designs are equally at home in a living room, music room or the museum of modern art."
Davone Twist (designer) speakers
RRP NZ$16,500/pr - NZ$19,995/pr
The Solo takes a novel approach on designing a large high end floor standing loudspeaker. With optimal driver placement and clever internal acoustics, the Solo delivers a well balanced sonic picture that is open, detailed, controlled and addictive. Additionally, the Solo can be customized with optional WiSA wireless connectivity upon request, ensuring a versatile and modern audio experience.
Looking to go wireless? With our fully in-house developed Davone wireless module, the Solo can seamlessly transform into a high-quality wireless loudspeaker, perfect for stereo setups or even multichannel systems.
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The music has enough power, enough bass, retains a reasonable amount of that desirable and authentic sharpness, does not tip over to aggressiveness under any circumstances and at any volume, and is actually a nice listen overall, non-confrontational, maybe slightly "rounder", but authentic enough in its ability to convey rock feeling.
Davone Solos are loudspeakers focused on elegance - both aesthetically, which is noticeable at first glance, and sonically, which is finally noticeable after two or three minutes of listening, when you play practically anything, you will be rewarded with a pleasantly smooth, sweet and cultivated expression even of the audiophile type, which, however, enlivens that certain "too authentic" reproduction with a light accent on the midrange and an overall relaxed comfort with a touch of warmth. The problem is the rather dramatic demands on the electronics, when if you want to play louder, you will have to reach for really high-end, super-stable amplifiers with power delivery time. In any case, it is necessary to smile at how much truly honest high-end the Danes from Davone were able to squeeze into the design and elegance of the subordinate loudspeakers and how well the result works
EAT - European Audio Team
Wide range of affordable, quality Turntables, Phono stages etc and Audio Valves - from Czech
EAT Jo No5 M/C cartridge
RRP NZ$1,995 incl GST
hi-fi+ Analogue Awards 2023 - Highly recommended
Quite simply, the EAT Jo No 5 is the best £5,000 cartridge you can buy for £1,000.
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“The Jo No 5 will bring a lump to your throat and send a shiver down your spine when Billie sings, ‘I’m a Fool to Want You’……It’s got the same sense of energy and vibrance, the same richness and depth to the sound and even some of the shimmer of the very best….. however for the most art you wont give a damn because you’ll be too busy enjoying the music.Quite simply, the EAT Jo No 5 is the best £5,000 cartridge you can buy for £1,000” ………hi-fi+ - Alan Sircom
EAT Jo No8 M/C cartridge
RRP NZ$4,500 incl GST
Writers' Choice Review Award. “An incredible bargain in the market. It can go toe to toe with cartridges costing twice as much on any day.”
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“In a nutshell, I am wondering if Jozefina would take a trade of My Koetsu for the Jo No. 8? I think that sums it up nicely. I doubt there can be more of an endorsement more serious than that! This cartridge should be on everyone's list who are considering upping their game to a mid priced cartridge. It would take years to get to the point of looking at anything more expensive if it ever came to that at all. A rare over achiever in a world of sometimes over hyped under performers. Make it part of your journey to check out the Jo No8 and look for it at some point in the future to make it to my reference system list” ………..Positive Feedback - Gary Lea
EAT Forte-S turntable w C-Note TA & Jo No5 M/C cart.
RRP NZ$15,995 incl GST
(also available with alternative tonearms & cartridges)
Hi-Fi World 5 Globes award
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Reviewer: Inner Audiophilia - Karl Nevalaine“It’s a combination for the rest of one’s life. The turntable itself is of so high quality, technically and sonically, that I’d stop looking for a better...”Reviewer: Hi-Fi Choice - David Price“Premium turntable with Powerful weighty sound, passion and precision aplenty, smooth, sweet tonality, expansive soundstaging but relaxed yet involving nature and easy going by nature. It retains much of its bigger brother the Forte. A great value package
EAT Fortissimo turntable w Forte 12” TA and Jo No8 M/C cart
RRP NZ$35,000 incl GST
(also available with alternative tonearms & cartridges)
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“I’ve described the Fortissimo as a complete package and not broken out the F-Note or Jo No 8 for a reason; there’s no need to do so. I’d struggle to think of an arm that’s a better match to the Fortissimo that isn’t a Graham Phantom Elite (which doubles the cost) or a cartridge that isn’t something that wasn’t in the £5,000-£9,000 price bracket….. the EAT Fortissimo is a substantial flagship turntable in a market where similarly-specified ‘flagships’ can cost an order of magnitude more. Couple that with the F-Note arm and Jo No 8 cartridge and you have a package costing just over NZ$30,000 that will easily see off many turntable systems costing twice that… possibly more. Put simply; this is a true reference grade, high-end flagship turntable without the flagship price. …….. hi-fi+ - Alan Sircom
Fischer&Fischer
Natural Slate, high-end Loudspeakers for superior musical presentation - from Germany
Fischer & Fischer SN/SL 70
from RRP NZ$8.995/pr incl GST
N/SL 70 are 2-way Single wired Standmount loudspeakers
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In particular, the dynamics and coherency of the sonic picture is enhanced and the bass response is cleaner, more articulate and tuneful. The energy balance of natural slate is not only superior in the bass range.
Fischer & Fischer SN 270 AMT
from RRP NZ$21,500/pr incl GST
SN 270 AMT are 2-Way Bi-wired with acclaimed Air Motion Transformer (AMT) high frequency drivers
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+ dynamics
+ strength
+ permanence, timelessness and immutability of baffles
+ the practicality of the concept with the bottom bass reflex (although it can be adjusted to a variant with front and rear exhaust on express request)
+ feeling of practically full range
Fischer & Fischer SN 370 AMT
from RRP NZ$28,995/pr incl GST
SN 370 AMT are 2.5-Way Bi-wired with acclaimed Air Motion Transformer (AMT) high frequency drivers
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This is a speaker designed for now and into the future, albeit that it's made from a material from aeons ago! Technical upgradability is built in, while respect for natural materials and their benefits is obvious. Slim, elegant and functional 2-ways, with a side order of extra gravity! This is most definitely not your average speaker. You'll discover this very quickly. In fact, it'll become obvious when all that "extra gravity" is first experienced...
Fischer & Fischer SN/SL 470M
from RRP NZ$39,995/pr incl GST
SN/SL 470M are 3-Way Bi-wired with acclaimed Air Motion Transformer (AMT) high frequency drivers
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Description
Fischer & Fischer floor standing loudspeakers have an elegant, luxurious and compact appearance. Due to their unique use of natural slate for their cabinets and very high quality drivers, including Air Motion Transformer (AMT) high frequency units made by Mundorf, they have an accurate, extended, full-bodied sound with realism, dynamics and natural presence. As you move up the range, the models use more drive units, higher quality crossover networks and more elaborate de-coupled cabinet designs, resulting in greater resolution, scale, efficiency and sonic sophistication. A highly accomplished, highly enjoyable German made destination loudspeaker system.
Specification
Frequency response (+/- 3 dB) 34 – 27,000 Hz
Impedance 4 ohms
Sensitivity 89 dB (1 W / 1 m)
Max. Acoustic Pressure 112 dB
Crossover network 1st and 2nd order phase and impedance corrected filter
Design Principle Bass Reflex
Bass System Two 180mm FISCHER & FISCHER cone drivers with carbon paper & foam sandwich membrane
Midrange System One 180mm FISCHER & FISCHER cone driver with carbonized paper, carbon foil sandwich membrane and aluminium phase plug
Treble System One FISCHER & FISCHER Air Motion Transformer (AMT), special specification custom made by Mundorf
Connecting Terminals 63A rhodium plated connecting terminals, bi-wiring with pure silver bridges with direct lossless connection to the crossover
Cabinet 20-23mm low-resonance thick natural slate plates
SN – Natural surface
SL – Polished and lacquered in all RAL and available car colours
Floor System Aluminium, height adjustable & levelable
Dimensions (H x W x D) 1115 x 220 x 350 mm
Dimensions, Overall incl. floor system 1160 x 325 x 405 mm
Weight 88 kg
Warranty 10 year
Franco Serblin
Beautiful, glorious, world class, high-end Loudspeakers - created in Italy
Franco Serblin Kitema
RRP NZ$54,995/pr incl GST
These are world-class speakers finished perfectly which deliver absolute topshelf performance .made by a legendary designer to become the type of exclusive product certain watches are.
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It’s a challenge to describe how dazzled I am by the Ktêma. A quick demo ain’t the same asliving with it: you need to ‘learn’ the Ktêma despite the instantly simpatico first impression. It does everything right and nothing wrong. It creates soundscapes – soundstage’ is too bland a term– suggesting whole audio vistas beyond one’s walls. The Ktêma conveys intimacy. It is one of the finest speakers I have ever heard
…. Aboslute Sounds - Ken Kessler
Franco Serblin Essence
RRP NZ$26,995/pr incl GST
They look stunning, curvaceous and fabulously constructed in a natural wood Their sound bares a striking audio resemblance to the violins made in the golden age of Venetian violin making;
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The Accordo Essence is a truly unique proposition. They look stunning, curvaceous and fabulously constructed in a natural wood that assures the most anti-audio partners! Their sound, as I discussed earlier, bares a striking audio resemblance to the violins made in the golden age of Venetian violin making; not bright and sharp, but liquid and smooth, not known for their vast power, but a pleasingly balanced and warm sound. They seem to extract the best from a piece of music without being overly analytical and appeal to the actual music lover who just wants to enjoy their music. Even if that music arrives in a romantic rose-tinted way. It is worth careful partnering with a suitable amplifier. Valves are a sure-fire winner, but EL34s work best in my system. In these dark times, who wouldn’t permit this marvellous sonic indulgence?
…….HiFi+ Rafael Todes
Franco Serblin Accordo
RRP NZ$15,500/pr incl GST
For those with a taste for the good things in life, La Dolce Vita of HiFi, it is not an exorbitant amount to pay for them. Don’t be surprised if you fall in love!
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As you’ll invariably read with reviews of rarefied Italian gear, whether HiFi, couture, wines, food or cars, accompanying the best things in life are compromises. A Barolo has to lay down for at least five years (much longer, really) to get maximum flavour and bouquet, most Italian suits are cut for narrow frames only, and if you don’t know about owning any model of gorgeous Alfa Romeos, have a Google, not forgetting a Ferrari’s 25K brake job every 5000 kms!
As such, if you want a monitor that looks and images like the very best and gives you superb, accurate timbre, texture and soundstage, then you will have to forgo some deep bass (happily, no audio tricks like a ‘mid bass bump’ that tend to blur imaging). But for those folks with a taste for the good things in life, La Dolce Vita of HiFi, this is not an exorbitant amount to pay for it. My suggestion is to arrange that audition we talked about. Don’t be surprised if you fall in love.
Franco Serblin Lignea
RRP NZ$9,500/pr incl GST
Sound is, in short, a true small giant. Well tuned sound that makes us forget about the size, ts sound is exquisite, and we can see the reason why its development took such a long time.
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Sound is, in short, a true small giant. Well tuned sound that makes us forget about the size, which we cannot just carelessly pass by. It's stable and natural melody progress rather than stress on excessive individuality, though small size, but its sound potentiality and band expression ability bears dignity. As much, its sound is exquisite, and we can see the reason why its development took such a long time.
Lignea will be recorded as a true masterpiece full of significance of posthumous work, a monumental work to remember Franco Serblin forever, a speaker master who contained instrumental sensitivity in speaker, which nobody before him did but only began from Sonus Faber.