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In the Forum: Audio Discussions
In the Thread: RMAF06 Show Report
Post Subject: RMAF06 Show ReportPosted by hagtech on: 10/26/2006
Ok, so I'm not really going to talk about the show itself, but more of some interesting things I learned. Yes, I did have a room, but that's not the point. I was able to borrow some speakers from Azzolina. They are of the unusual Lowther-in-a-horn design. And I gotta say, they weren't bad. Bass was by a big cabinet that looked like a La Scala with a 15" inside.
A very odd speaker. From about 220Hz up was the Lowther (a55?) with a horn on front and open back. Bottom was kind of a folded horn but also had bass reflex ports. No idea how this thing really works. But my point is that it actually had decent sound. Very little honkiness or shouting. Yes, they were very directional, so a small sweet spot. That's ok. Overall sound was relaxed with plenty dynamics and clarity. Lots of punch. Guitar and piano really had pluck. Vocals came through with a lot of transparency.
Ok, I'm not saying these are the best on the planet, just that the funky technology seemed to work. More importantly, and the point I am trying to make here, is that I realized that the non-koolade drinkers at the show all sort of converged on the same set of equipment. Over many years. Horns, tube amps, and vinyl. I'd bet they would all love Romy's system. (Then there was the Stereophile writer we had dinner with who thought Wilson was the top of the heap.)
The other revelation was listening to the Dynavector XV-1. Holy crap that is one fine cartridge. I could not believe what it did with old vinyl. That is, regular LPs from the 50 years ago. That cart just ripped an unbelievable amount of information out of the grooves. And from non-audiophile stuff! It's best feature was the ability to keep everything in the mix separate. Each instrument or voice remained completely separate from the others during playback. Simply stunning. Best cart I have ever heard.
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