The Newsletter of Len Wallis Audio Summer 2018/19
Home Grown! Duntech, Dรถhmann, Halcro & Serhan+Swift lead an Aussie hi-fi revival
PS AUdIo
Get your own Power Plant!
GoInG PorTABLe wITH YoUr STAx eArSPeAKerS
S n I S T f I G I -f I H P o T 1
lenwallisaudio.com (02) 9427 6755
/lenwallisaudio
Ide!
Celebrating 40 Years of Skill and Passion. The KI Ruby Series.
When skill and passion work together, expect a masterpiece. Introducing the PM-KI Ruby Integrated Amplifier and the SA-KI Ruby Super Audio CD-Player with DAC. For his 40 years ruby anniversary at Marantz, Ken Ishiwata and his daring team crafted these two new audiophile gemstones with hand-selected and custom-made components to carry all the emotions of music. The KI Ruby Series is precision-made and virtuously tuned to deliver the most enjoyable sound to amplify your senses. Each component is strictly limited to an edition of 1,000. Save yours now. Because music matters - and value remains.
available at
www.marantz.com.au
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
Inside...
06
08
04 From the desk of Len, on our website upgrade! 06 Döhmann Helix: the art and science of turntables 07 Bluesound upgrades to 2i 08 Yamaha’s flagship hi-fi, plus how to Trade & Save! 10 B&W trickles tech down to the new 600 Series
10
11
11
Stax steps out with a portable electrostatic amp
12
New Musical Fidelity ranges
13
Ken Ishiwata signs off the Marantz Ruby CD & amp
14 Sony’s new laser highs 14 Triangle’s in-wall & outdoor loudspeakers 15
13
16
Is Panasonic’s UHD Blu-ray player the ‘new OPPO’?
16 Custom installation Signature Cinema Design with a 151-inch screen 19 PS Audio & Thor deliver power that doesn’t corrupt 20 New Pro-Ject decks & stunning Kiseki cartridges 23 Want the ultimate in AV processing? Meet Trinnov 24 New Naim network players hit the ground streaming
20
26
64 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066 Telephone 02 9427 6755 sales@lenwallisaudio.com.au TRadiNg HouRS Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday: 9 to 5.30 Thursday: 9 to 8; Saturday: 9 to 5; Sunday: closed THE LATEST IS ONLINE! – www.lenwallisaudio.com
26 Home-grown hi-fi: Halcro Duntech and Serhan Swift 28 Ruark’s little MRx speaker 29 Audio essentials Top gifts, accessories and tweaks that can take your system to the next level
3
Editorial
From thE dEsk oF lEn Wallis
W
e have recently launched our new website, having finally bid goodbye to the old site after 14 years, an eternity in website years – and for the first time we have a cart!! While that addition of E-Commerce is obviously important to us, we have still designed the site as an informational resource. We are great believers that the more you know about a product or technology the better decisions you will make. While the site is not designed to replace live conversations or touching and listening to the equipment, we hope that you find it to be of value. We certainly welcome your feedback on the site (lenwallisaudio.com), and please take the opportunity to interact with us through our contact page. Despite the time and money that is involved in putting together a new site, it can never take the place of actually
04
listening to the components you are interested in, nor can it take the place of forming a relationship with a dealer you trust. Only this morning we received an email from a disgruntled customer (not ours) complaining about the performance and manufacturing quality of a relatively expensive CD player and amplifier that he had purchased. This purchaser was so incensed he took the time to include every Australian retailer for this brand, plus the distributor, on the email. While the reaction may have been a tad extreme (I assume it is a consequence of not being able to get a satisfactory outcome to his problems) these situations do occasionally arise. Despite our best efforts there are always occasions where components that we recommend do not work out. There are many factors that we do not have control over e.g. existing equipment, room acoustics or simple miscommunication. Any good dealer is
sympathetic to these situations and allows for components to be exchanged, or even refunded. Let’s be honest, you are going to live with this for a long time, so it is important that you get it right. However in this case it appears that despite the fact that the amplifier and CD player are matching components from the same brand, they were purchased from different dealers, both in different states, and neither are in the state where the consumer lived. One can only speculate as to why this would be the case. Did this person listen to the gear before purchase? – that’s hard to ascertain. Is it the CD player or the amplifier (or both) which do not sound up to scratch? – difficult to tell. What I do know is that this will not be a simple process of going back to his local dealer, explaining the problem, and getting a sympathetic outcome. There is more to any successful transaction than price alone!
FOR WHEN THE MUSIC MATTERS Audio Union is the organization of respected engineers, research scientists and international manufacturers dedicated to restoring the true meaning of “High Fidelity”- continuing to innovate and launch class-leading products to support its vision for excellence in engineering and musical performance. Music is one of the greatest expressions of the human soul and Audio Union intends each product to be capable of faithfully delivering the essence of every performance. No source material is truly inclusive of every detail of the actual performance; however, we can extract more information from the LP source material than we are currently doing - so says analog
maven Mark Döhmann with the release of his latest eponymous turntable. The Döhmann Helix 1 delivers unparalleled analog playback performance due to its unique Micro Signal Architecture© (MSA) engineering that sets new noise reduction and micro-signal preservation benchmarks. MSA is a cohesive approach to design that uses the most advanced techniques available to remove physical and mechanical vibration and electrical noise. This approach to signal preservation is the brainchild of Mark, who set out to conquer the seemingly insurmountable obstacles frustrating turntable designers since the 1950’s. By joining forces with Audio Union’s team of talented scientists, engineers and designers (www.audio-union.com), each aspect of noise and vibration suppression was addressed by utilizing the latest in visualization techniques, engineering concepts and patented technologies. We believe the result is the closest yet to the original source.
NOW AUDITIONING AT LEN WALLIS AUDIO
AUDIO UNION DÖHMANN HELIX
Döhmann Helix Two turntable
A
ustralia’s Mark Döhmann is recognised as one of the world’s foremost experts on turntable design. Having already been the chief designer of the
Döhmann Helix 1 turntable
06
$200,000+ Continuum Caliburn turntable – regarded by many as one of the finest turntables ever built – Mark and other members of the design group Audio Union more
recently turned his attention to a more affordable offering, resulting in the Dohmann Helix One and Helix Two turntables. We are proud to announce that we now have the Helix Two (above) on display. Having previously carried the Continuum, we can see the similarities in design, and lessons learned in the previous design have obviously filtered down to this new model. While the Helix Two is a lower priced design, it is still a substantial product. It weighs in at 60kgs and it still sells for $40,000 – plus cartridge. Needless to say, it is a delight to listen to! Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
BLUESOUND
NEW BLUE B luesound offers the most versatile, high-resolution multi-room audio system we stock. From powered speakers and soundbars to CD storage and streaming for your HiFi, there is a solution for every room to get high-res MQA at audiophile quality. Now it gets better! Generation 2i improves components throughout the range with dual-band Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2 support and upgraded Bluetooth codecs, all with improved amplification and acoustics. As many audiophiles know, the positioning and isolation of internal circuits can greatly influence sound quality, so having a smaller and superior Wi-Fi chipset trickle down from sister company NAD’s high-end Masters series gave technicians more flexibility to isolate signal pathways. Consequently, the improvements extend beyond the spec sheet. That being said, this is not a minor upgrade, as there are a number of obvious improvements and additions.
More power‌more sound
Newly reconfigured digital amplifiers effectively double the available power, and this will come in handy with the new driver configuration in the Pulse 2i (above). The speaker features all-new driver and amp technologies that more than double the output in the bass frequencies when compared with the previous version. There is also a sophisticated DSP engine that result in a greatly enhanced top-end.
compatibility for a range of devices. And with the newer aptX Bluetooth codec, you can potentially achieve higher resolution playback on all Bluesound devices.
AirPlay 2 AirPlay 2 will integrate your Bluesound devices within the Apple eco-system better than ever. In addition to easily streaming music, essentially anything playing on your Apple device can be streamed, including Netflix or YouTube. And by connecting your Apple to a new Gen 2i device, you can utilise your old Bluesound devices with the new technology. AirPlay 2 functionality will be available through a software release in the near future.
Bluetooth receive & transmit When we talk about Bluetooth connectivity, we are usually speaking of connecting your device to play through the component. But one of the most exciting features of the new Gen 2i is the ability to transmit Bluetooth (note this ability is not available on the Pulse Flex). This means that you can use your favourite Bluetooth headphones to connect. Great for those late nights! While we do not recommend Bluetooth connection for everyday use, it is a common platform that adds extra
AVAILABLE FROM NOVEMBER, THE NEW MODELS INCLUDE: NODE 2i (RRP $999) POWERNODE 2i (RRP $1,549) VAULT 2i (RRP $1,999) PULSE 2i (RRP $1,599) PULSE MINI 2i (RRP $999) PULSE FLEX 2i (RRP $699) and PULSE SOUNDBAR 2i (RRP $1,699 in Black, $1,799 in White, available in December).
07
YAMAHA
Yamaha’s flagship stereo
Y
amaha continue to reinforce the notion that they can still be a powerhouse in highfidelity two-channel stereo, and that they are not just a bulk-box or surround sound factory. Their new Elite Hi-Fi series introduces three new stereo components, with the promise of more to come in the future. After the great success of the A-S3000 range and the companion A-S2000 and 1000 series components, they have upped the ante with a 5000 series flagship pre-amplifier and power amplifier combination (pictured above). The build quality of these units is phenomenal, and while they’re stacked to the rafters if you look under the hood, there is a beauty in its symmetry and design. The symmetry results in two clearly
08
separate signal paths supported with independent power supply pathways. Copper plating and shielding abounds, with the rigid and precise design minimising vibration and distortion. The durability and quality extends down to the simplest elements with thick heavyduty wires and screws used for internal connections, which drastically reduce the overall impedance allowing performance “at its absolute peak creating musical expression from both the finest delicate detail to powerfully rich base”. Throw in the gorgeous NS-5000 speakers and the new GT-5000 turntable (see right) and we can understand Yamaha’s goal for the 5000 range to “deliver an end-to-end balanced signal chain across its flagship models for premier performance.”
GT-5000 With each element of the 5000 range, Yamaha has referenced a piece of their history. This newest turntable, due to arrive in February, harkens back to the “golden age of Hi-Fi” and their “Gigantic and Tremendous” series of decks. The massive, finely finished, piano-black wooden cabinet supports a 5kg aluminium platter, not only an imposing visual statement but also reducing vibration and resonance. It has a short, pure straight tone arm which aligns the needle, cantilever and support pin with a rigidness that negates the need for an anti-skating weight. And exceedingly rare for turntables, it has balanced XLR connections. When used with the 5000 pre and power you can achieve a fully balanced signal from needle to speaker!
Yamaha
Stereo R-N803 receiver
Y
amaha also continue to release more commercially available two-channel products, one of the most notable being their new R-N803 receiver. This 145-watt/ channel powerhouse features almost
A couple of years ago Yamaha introduced what was arguably the most successful promotion we have ever been involved in – their ‘Trade & Save’ promotion. Well, it’s on again. Purchase any Aventage A/V receiver or processer and you’ll receive a guaranteed trade-in on your existing receiver. The trade-in depends on the product purchased: • CX-A5200 Processor Minimum trade-in $500 • MX-A5000 Power Amp Minimum trade-in $500 • RX-A3080 Receiver Minimum trade-in $500 • RX-A2070 Receiver Minimum trade-in $400
every piece of technology you could ask for. Firstly it comes equipped with Yamaha’s wireless multi-room system – MusicCast. MusicCast is emerging as one of the standout multi-room systems in what is becoming a very crowded
field. This enables the R-N803 to offer Bluetooth, AirPlay, a digital input for your TV and a phono stage for your vinyl. You have DAB+ radio as well as FM, and it is network-enabled, allowing access to Net Radio, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer and others. The free app is easy to use, and importantly we have found Yamaha to be very ‘network friendly’.
• RX-A1070 Receiver Minimum trade-in $300 • RX-A880 Receiver Minimum trade-in $250 • RX-A780 Receiver Minimum trade-in $150 This is an ideal opportunity to upgrade to current technologies – Dolby Atmos, HDMI 2.0 (necessary for Foxtel 4), voice activation, Bluetooth, network enabled, MusicCast multi-room audio etc. (Incidentally, the Yamaha RX-A3080 A/V receiver was a category winner at the recent Sound+Image awards. Every version of this receiver, stretching back nine models, has won this award. No wonder Yamaha dominate this market – they really do get it right.)
New wireless speakers Yamaha have also released two new MusicCast wireless speakers, the MusicCast 20 (above) at $349, and the MusicCast 50 at $699. These join an already stellar line-up creating a solution for every situation.
09
BOWERS & WILKINS
603: 3-way floor-standing with 6” Continuum midrange and 2 x 6.5” paper profile bass drivers: $2,699
B&W 600 Series
I
607: 2-way bookshelf with 5” Continuum midrange/bass: $949
606: 2-way bookshelf with 6.5” Continuum midrange/bass: $1,149
HTM6: 2-way centre channel with 2 x 5” Continuum midrange/bass drivers: $799
t has now been a couple of years since Bowers & Wilkins upgraded their top-of-the-range ‘800’ series of speakers. The ‘700’ series was updated late last year, and now it is time for the ‘600’ series to be revamped. This new series is the latest rendition of a range initially released in 1991, and which has won many five-star reviews and awards along the way. This series represents their most affordable range of ‘hi-fi’ speakers (they do manufacture a lower priced range of small on-wall or desktop speakers, and an impressive range of architectural speakers). In keeping with B&W’s philosophy of trickle-down technology, the new 600 series features their Continuum cone –
The existing three subwoofers: the ASW610XP, ASW610 and ASW608.
Len Wallis Audio was appointed as a Bowers & Wilkins dealer in the early 1980s, and we have enjoyed a great partnership ever since. B&W is now our number one selling speaker brand, and thousands of our clients have B&W speakers in their listening rooms or Home Theatres. In recognition of the strength of this partnership, and acknowledging LWA’s 40th year in business, Bowers and Wilkins commissioned a one-off
10
initially developed for the 800 series, and later incorporated into the 700 series. This cone material is particularly good for mid-range reproduction, the area where most of recorded material exists, and the area where the ear is most sensitive. B&W have also upgraded the Decoupled Double Dome tweeter used in the previous series. As a result Bowers & Wilkins have been able to improve on what was already a great, and popular, range of loudspeakers. This new series consists of seven models – two bookshelf, one floorstanding, one centre channel, and the three sub-woofers below (which remain unchanged from the old series).
pair of 805 speakers in Lamborghini(ish) orange and presented them to Len earlier this year. Len was clearly surprised by the generosity of this gesture, commenting that this was a relationship that had been good for all parties involved. He was also heard to remark that he thought the finish was stunning!
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
Stax
Stax StepS out
S
tax is arguably the best range of headphones (or ‘earspeakers’ as Stax prefer to call them) in the world. If there was a downside it would be that being electrostatic they remain tethered to your audio system without the opportunity to use them in portable situations. This has now changed with the release of the SRM-D10 battery-powered PORTABLE Electrostatic Headphone Amp/DAC (pictured below). This unit will accept all 5-pin Stax electrostatic headphones. It has both a MicroUSB digital input and a 3.5mm analogue input. The high-resolution DAC handles DSD128 and PCM audio with an up to 384KHz sample rate. Price $1,495.
Special 80th edition
Stax have also announced a special 80th anniversary version of their superb SP-009 Earspeaker. Sonically this will be the same as the current version, the only differences being that they are black in colour, and are stamped with an 80th anniversary logo (shown above and in the close-up details).
There are only 180 units of this special SP-009 being made for world-wide distribution. At the time of writing we do not have the allocation for Australia, but stock will be extremely limited. If you have an interest in this collector’s item please give us a call (or email sales@lenwallisaudio.com.au ).
11
MUSICAL FIDELITY
Expanding thE rangE Musical Fidelity’s New Era
B
y the time you read this we should have received our first shipment of the new Musical Fidelity M2Si integrated amplifier and ‘M2S CD’ CD player. These units will both sell for $1,799, and are based on the older M3 (predecessors to the current M3Si and M3S CD) units. This makes both these
12
models exceptional value, and it is great to see Musical Fidelity becoming available at lower price points without any sacrifice in quality. The M2 series is the first of a number of new products that we will see from Musical Fidelity prior to Christmas. They are in the process of re-engineering a number of items that were discontinued
by the previous owner prior to selling the company, and these products include many of the higher-powered power amplifiers and matching pre-amps. Following a lengthy absence we also again have stock of Musical Fidelity’s very popular M5S and M6S series amplifiers and CD players. More details on our new website: www.lenwallis.com
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
MARANTZ
MARANTZ RUBY & ‘13’ SERIES AV RECEIVERS
M
arantz are in the process of upgrading their ‘12’ series of AV receivers to the ‘13’ series. We have already received the SR5013 ($1,650) and SR6013 ($2,290), with the SR7013 due before the end of the year. Upgrades over the earlier series include the addition of Apple AirPlay 2 and the achievement of a new ‘IMAX Enhanced’ status, showing they meet “stringent performance standards established for image and sound performance by IMAX, DTS and Hollywood’s leading colorists”. The other exciting news from Marantz is the limited release of their KI Ruby series. It has been some time since Ken Ishiwata released a ‘signature’ product crafted under his watchful eye. The Ruby series marks his 40th anniversary with the company. There are two models (pictured above), selling for $6,990 each.
PM-KI Ruby integrated amplifier:
SA-KI Ruby SACD player:
Rated at 100 watts/channel into 8 ohms (200 watts into 4), this amplifier boasts the finest components available, separate power supplies for the pre and power amp stages and a high performance phono stage. As expected this is a greatsounding amplifier.
Despite the swing to streaming there is still a lot of life left in CDs. A great number of people have large CD collections and wish to extract the best performance possible out of them. As well as handling CDs and SACDs, the Ruby also has an asynchronous USB input for hi-res audio, and a high quality dedicated headphone amplifier.
13
SONY • TRIANGLE
New laser light highs from Sony VPL-VW870ES projector
I
n our last edition, we were praising the Sony VW760ES laser projector as their best residential unit yet. It seems that we spoke too soon – as the new VPL-VW870ES has since hit our shores. The new model uses the same advanced SXRD (Silicon X-tal Reflective Display) panel technology as previous models and continues to deliver native 4K (4096 x 2160) resolution images. But the big changes come with the physical elements of the projection system. The VW870ES boosts brightness by 10 percent to 2200 lumens, and uses a new dual dynamic contrast system to balance this extra brightness against black levels. In conjunction with internal processing and HDR information, it is able to maintain deep blacks while still providing extra light when called upon. Technology has also trickled down from Sony’s super-expensive
VW5000ES 4K laser projector with the use of the same All Range Crisp Focus (ARC-F) lens. The all-glass design of this large-aperture lens ensures the convergence of red, green and blue primary images. Add in the Digital Focus Optimizer which compensates for optical degradation using digital processing, and you experience the vividness of the laser projection and the clarity of the UHD image to the edges of the screen. As with all laser projectors, you can get up to 20,000 hours of uninterrupted operation with little or no degradation of the light source so, unlike a standard bulb, there is no need for lamp replacement, and virtually zero maintenance. And as the availability of more detailed source material expands into the realm of 4K HDR 60p content, the VPL-VW870ES is now HDMI 18Gbps-compatible, ensuring
you can use every skerrick of information to ensure smoother gradations. Gaming also gets attention at the topend this time around. Producing such a projection image takes time, which you can afford when watching movies, but when using a gaming console, those precious milliseconds can make a big difference. All of Sony’s latest projectors have an input lag reduction mode which dramatically improves the performance of the display reaction speed. So now you can exploit the superior video processing of the newer UHD consoles with “breathtakingly detailed image quality” but still have control of the finite movements and timing of gameplay. At $35,999 the Sony VPL-VW870ES is an investment in a superior image that has the technology to last for years of enjoyment, no matter what you throw at it.
Triangle custom – in-wall & outdoors Triangle have been forging an enviable reputation for their HiFi speakers over the last few years. In more recent times they have also entered the architectural speaker market – in-wall, in-ceiling and now outdoor. We have recently received these two new models from this French company:
IWT8 A rectangular 2-way in-wall speaker with an 8” driver and adjustable silk dome tweeter. $999 /pr.
14
EXT7 This is Triangle’s first all-weather speaker. It has the same lively sound that characterises Triangle speakers, making it an ideal speaker for the outdoor environment. $999 /pr.
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
PANASONIC
UHD BLU-RAY PLAYER OF THE YEAR OVER $500
UHD Blu-ray benchmark Panasonic’s DP-UB9000
P
anasonic have been setting the benchmark with processing and calibration behind their Ultra High-Definition (UHD) OLED televisions. The best way to appreciate the vibrancy and clarity of these excellent screens is with the best content available. Even in the age of streaming and fast internet, physical UHD Blu-ray discs still provide the best levels of information available, and with the release of the new UB9000 player, Panasonic sets another benchmark. With the surprising decision by OPPO to no longer produce Blu-ray players, customers went on a buying frenzy to snap up the last available models, which quickly ran out. We still get calls daily asking for stock! But for those that missed out, there is now light at the end of the tunnel. Due to arrive in November, the UB9000 promises to feature all that the OPPOs did, but with more! Based on the same HCX processor found in the OLED TVs, the player’s precise colours and HDR reproduction have been supervised by the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, a specialist division which consults with “renowned directors of photography and filmmakers”
– indeed Panasonic has developed a “4K World” to provide end-to-end Ultra HD solutions. Using technology inspired and refined by its professional divisions, Panasonic is aiming to deliver an unprecedented level of visual experience. The UB9000 supports all the latest video enhancement formats, including HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid LogGamma, and is certified as a THX Source. Unlike the OPPOs, this unit can stream UHD images directly from Netflix, Amazon Prime and other video on-demand (VOD) services. Add in voice control with Google or Alexa and you have a great addition to your smart-enabled home. Where the Panasonic really takes on the OPPO is in audio performance. Every stage of the component is tailored to ensuring superior audio playback. It uses a 768kHz/32-bit AK4493 DAC chip, caters for WAV/FLAC/MP3/AAC/WMA/AIFF, but also DSD and ALAC formats. Power is divided at the origin to clearly separate the digital and analogue pathways with
stable voltage supply regulating power throughout the main board. The superior build-quality has thick aluminium panels and a rigid chassis with a solid steel plate to anchor the disc drive and minimise vibration. All components have been carefully selected to ensure precision of sound all the way to the high-quality output terminals, which include 2-channel XLR for the most demanding systems. Our jury will still be out until we can get our hands on one, but after its release in Europe, it earned the EISA award as the best “High-End UHD Blu-ray Player 2018-2019” with the judges praising it as ‘a gloriously engineered high-end machine’. With its ‘Custom processing, high-spec components and advanced user adjustments…every last drop of performance detail is squeezed from movies and music alike…’. We are expecting the player to land in November and have an RRP of $1,649, but you can pre-order today.
15
CUSTOM INSTALLATION
16
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
CUSTOM INSTALLATION
Signature Cinema Design – At Home
W
hen Len Wallis Audio was asked to work on a new-build cinema with two of Sydney’s most respected architects and builders (Bruce Stafford Architects and Joe Fuda of Innovative Building), we knew the team effort would deliver the finest of cinema results. And it did. Alberto Vangi (senior custom sales) initially sat down with the clients to determine and put together the cinema, and once this was done project manager Onur Guresen and documentation Auto CAD draftsman Shaun Peffer worked closely through the preparation stages all the way from start to finish – guiding senior installer Mark Young, programmer Tim McGurk and even Mick Peaker from Avical for the video image ISF Calibration.
Signature design
Sunfire subwoofers, with the main front left, centre, right speakers located behind a perforated Stewart screen to ensure the most accurate sound reproduction when viewing the screen, and for the most immersive and accurate means of drawing the viewer in. Stewart’s Microperf
“A 151-inch Cinemascope Stewart Screen not only allows the absolute very best from the projector but also achieves THX certification...”
X2 THX-Ultra acoustically transparent screen, as used in this project, has more than 320,000 microperforations per square metre, compared with 59,000 in a commercial movie theatre screen. In addition, the perforations are much smaller than those on commercial theatre screens. Having more and smaller perforations is better for the type of sound waves transmitted by home cinema audio systems. A 151-inch Cinemascope Stewart Screen not only allows the absolute very best from the projector but also achieves THX certification both in audio and picture. Projecting onto the screen is a Sony 4K HDR Projector which filled the screen with an absolutely stunning image. Seated back you get taken away by just how good the image is, especially after being professionally calibrated.
We applied a signature design cinema for the space being 6019mm L x 3920mm W x 2495mm H. The acoustic treatment of this room was custom designed to work with the audio components. The acoustic engineer paid close attention to ensuring that the room was balanced in terms of both reverberation time and frequency response i.e. across the full audio spectrum. As well, within the constraints of the physical limits, early reflections and diffusion were designed to be optimum. The designed components were then manufactured as modules with the specified finish. They form a complete surface with concealed fixing, penetrations and mounting points for services and removable sections for service access. A 7.2.4-channel B&W Premium Cinema Speaker solution was combined with two
17
CUSTOM INSTALLATION A Yamaha Pre and Power combination was used to power and look after the Dolby surround sound processing for the main front three speakers, two side and two rear surround in-wall speakers, and the four ceiling Dolby Atmos speakers. The Yamaha delivered on all accounts, handling all the latest surround sound formats and 4K HDR HDMI Video Switching. Also by using separates rather than an all-in-one amp for a dedicated cinema, the impact and sound quality is taken to the next level, with better control over the sound. Meanwhile the B&W speakers provide a very easy-tolisten-to sound at the highest of levels – not being harsh or overly bright, as can many other brands. Key sources components were the 4K Oppo 205 Blu-ray player, Apple TV and the customer’s own hard drive. Bruce and Joe didn’t overlook an inch of the room, with lighting, colour and finish choices, along with the overall build quality and design, really giving the room the sense of an even better movie experience than being at the cinema, all in your own home. During his project management Onur made sure that all the wiring was correctly in place, holes all positioned for the later installation of the B&W speakers, while taking into account the acoustic treatment. During fit-out the installers carefully wired together the electronics and mounting of the projector, screen and each of the speakers. Onur closely monitored the fitout period so that the architect and builder were able to deliver on their promise in regards to the timing of completion. Alberto also made sure that the purchased system would not only live up to expectations but exceed them, knowing that Len Wallis Audio has been specifically chosen by the client based on our 40 years of experience and reputation.
Comfort & control The highly comfortable seating was chosen by the client, knowing they would be spending hours in such an amazing room. So to put the finishing touches on the room from the viewer’s
18
seat we provided them with an all-inone iPad touch screen running the RTI control system. Once programmed the room could be used with the simplest of ease, with minimal button presses, seamless reliability and control, with macro functions programmed to speed and simplify operations still further. For example pressing the ‘Blu-ray’ icon turns on the Yamaha Pre and Power, switches to the correct input on the Yamaha, turns the projector on and selects its correct input, too – leaving the owners
simply to physically put the disc in the player. We even programmed in multiformat ability, so that you can view both 16:9 and 2.35:1 via the Sony projector with the touch of a button. In summary, with Bruce and Joe’s involvement we have created a very comfortable space for the whole family to watch and enjoy movies, sports, concerts, TV shows on a 151-inch screen with an incredible picture and sound quality. The enjoyment factor is significant! Which is what we always aim to achieve. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
PS AUDIO - THOR
Power Conditioning Thor PS10
PS Audio P20 Power PlAnT The importance of the quality of the power being delivered to your system has been well documented during the last decade. However, we have still been somewhat surprised by the popularity of PS Audio’s new offering, the $14,995 DirectStream P20 Power Plant. This is substantial product, weighing in at 44kg. It is also the most powerful AC regenerator that PS Audio has ever built, supplying 2,000 watts of regenerated power, with peak demands of 3,600 watts – enough power for an entire system. This unit has 13 outlet sockets, and is a completely new design, not simply a larger version of their existing P10. In a bold claim PS Audio state that the effect of installing a P20 is the same as having less than 20 metres of 12-gauge wire connected directly to the local city power source. A gutsy claim maybe, but the results are obvious – improved dynamics, better (both lower and more defined) bass, and much more ‘air’ around the music and instruments. Rafe Arnott, writing for Part Time Audiophile, sums it up pretty well in
his review, describing first the PS10 experience, then the PS20: “Tone, and timbre of instruments are spot-on, with wood-bodied ones in particular in possession of the proper scale, weight, and resonance that I associate with real acoustic guitars... Opting in to the P20, the already big, hip-shaking bottom end seems to swell in size, and weight, with a deeper tonal shading now coming through. Vocals take on a sweeping, more expansive quality to the air volume surrounding the physical arrangement of singers... This was a scenario that continued to play out every time I listened to a track off Tidal, closed the lid on a CD, or dropped the needle on an LP: everything that was pulling me deeper into the listening experience, into the meaning of the artist’s intent through the recorded medium – be it digital or analog – was enhanced through the P20. If the P10 was helping sink me into the depths of the song, the P20 was like throwing an anchor and chain around my legs as I sank down. It seems that with this latest (and largest) addition... PS Audio has taken everything I’ve come to expect and appreciate from the P10, and improved upon it wholesale.”
The Thor PS10 Power Station has just had an upgrade. The PS10 is the most successful hi-end power conditioner we have ever carried, being an automatic inclusion with many of our higher quality installations for many years. Not only does it filter the incoming power, it also protects against spikes, lightning strikes etc. It has a reaction time of 1 nanosecond (0.000000001 of a second), and comes with an up-to-$500K connected equipment warranty should it fail. It also protects more than just 240V attached components (with 8 protected sockets in total), having separate sockets for aerial, network and pay TV protection. Plus it comes with a six-year replacement warranty. However the advantages of the PS10 are far greater than filtration and protection. The PS10 also offers voltage stabilisation. Irrespective of the incoming voltage, which can vary considerably, the PS10 will output a constant voltage. This can be 240V or 220V (selectable) depending on your equipment. I recall an audiophile friend who said that whenever the power delivery to his house was dirty or well off the 240V mark, his system suffered sonically to the extent that he would turn it off until things got better. An extreme reaction, I admit, but it does highlight the value behind products such as the Thor PS10, and the PS Audio P20. The PS10 sells for $1,995.
19
PRO-JECT
Primary e Pro-Ject’s response to the increasing number of cheap plastic turntables with lightweight platters, low performance tonearms, poor quality cartridges etc. flooding the market. The Primary E is hand-built in Europe, comes with an Ortofon cartridge and offers surprising performance for the asking price of $349.
Your Table Awaits! one of the big winners from the current return to vinyl is Pro-Ject Systems from Austria. This company is now the biggest manufacturer of turntables in the world, and in recent months they have released a swag of new models. We have picked the eyes out of them.
essential iii Marketed by Project as their ‘audiophile entry turntable.’ Complete with Ortofon OM10 cartridge at $550. This turntable is also available with a built-in phono stage for $630.
1Xpression Carbon Classic This is the sixth generation of the Pro-Ject 1 turntable initially released in 1991. It features a newly designed carbon fibre arm, a low noise AC motor and a unique platter with thermo plastic elastomers (TPE) sandwiched with aluminium alloy. The platter bearing axle is made from low tolerance chrome-plated stainless steel running on Teflon bottom in a bronze bearing housing. The turntable plinth is from low resonance MDF, which effectively is decoupled from structure-born noise by special absorber feet, which use TPE technology. The supplied cartridge is the $449 Quintet Red. Price $1,559.
debut Carbon endurance Reputedly the world’s most popular turntable. Now available with an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, and for a short time a free extra stylus (valued at $99.00): $750
20
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
PRO-JECT • KISEKI
ClASSiC: lAST ChAnCe We still have a limited quantity of Pro-Ject’s ‘Classic’ turntable, albeit the only colour left is Mahogany. This turntable retails for $1,650 (without cartridge), but we are offering the Classic for $995, one of the best turntable buys on the market.
2Xperience SB Featuring electronic speed change and their superb 9cc tone arm (as used on the Linn Majik). $1,999 without cartridge. SPECIAL: Purchase a 2Xperience SB and we will fit an Ortofon 2M Black moving magnet cartridge, valued at $1,000, free of charge! This offer is available until December 31, or until stock runs out.
Kiseki cartridges
T
Signature 10 While Pro-Ject have become renowned for their low-cost high-value turntables, they also make some very impressive high-end units, including the Signature 10 which we have on the floor: $8,800
he story behind Kiseki is a rather convoluted one. This brand exudes the concept of home-grown artisan manufacture. The name and marketing conjure up the vision of craftsmen toiling away in a village in Japan – producing priceless jewels for the audio industry (even the name means ‘Miracle’ in Japanese). And in many ways this impression is correct – Kiseki cartridges are all meticulously handbuilt, parts of them in Japan. However Kiseki is not Japanese. It was the brainchild of Herman Van den Dungen of Durob Audio in the Netherlands (who also owns another favourite brand of ours – the tube amplification line Prima Luna). During the 1980s Herman was looking for an alternative to Koetsu cartridges, which he distributed locally at the time. Failing to find anything to his liking he decided to design his own, and Kiseki was born.
new Style Now, many decades later, we have seen the release of two new N.S. (New Style) Kiseki cartridges. Kiseki has always targeted the high-end of the audio
spectrum, and these two releases are no exception. However they are still considered to offer great value, eclipsing the performance of alternatives costing considerably more. In his Stereophile review Michael Fremer said ‘Overall, the Kiseki Purple Heart N.S. is a physical and sonic beauty… it offers a sophisticated sound well beyond what you would expect at its $3,299 price’. (NOTE: This is US$, plus tax. In Australia this cartridge sells for $3,995 inc. GST, making it roughly $1,000 less than the US price.) Similarly when Tom Lyle reviewed the PurpleHeart for on-line publication Hear the Music he stated ‘The Kiseki Purple Heart Moving Coil phono cartridge as reviewed here is the best six thousand dollar phono cartridge I’ve ever heard. But the Kiseki Purple Heart doesn’t cost six thousand dollars, it costs $3,299.’ We have seen a strong upturn in sales of quality turntables such as Avid and Linn – investments in turntables of this calibre deserves a similar investment in a matching cartridge. We believe the Kiseki is the answer. Kiseki Blue n.S. $2,695 Kiseki Purpleheart n.S. $3,995
21
Redefining the Meaning of High Fidelity
Intuitive, daring and minimalistic in
The newly developed soft-dome
style - the Triangle Elara speaker
tweeter and the concave bass/
range breaks the rules of classic hi-fi
midrange drivers give Elara the
with an innovative design. Available in
distinctive powerful bass tones
floor-standing and bookshelf models
and detailed sound emblematic of
Elara speakers deliver wonderful
TRIANGLE speakers.
performance and have the style to fit any décor. Universal and versatile – Elara’s warm sound delivers a great listening
Only the essential remains and lets you focus on what matters most – the music. Elara speakers feature a reflective
experience, across all music styles,
black or white piano lacquered finish.
whilst redefining the meaning of
Every detail - proportions, finish and
high fidelity. From the very first note,
gloss - has been chosen to make your
Elara’s smooth, natural and musical
speakers integrate seamlessly with all
sound is evident.
the parts of your interior design.
For more information & details visit www.audiomarketing.com.au or call 02 9882 3877
Trinnov
AV PROCESSOR & POWER AMPLIFIER OF THE YEAR Trinnov Altitude16 & Amplitude8m
Trinnov aT The Top
S
erious Home Theatre has really grown up in the last couple of years. The release of Atmos and DTS:X has really changed the way we design and implement theatres. It took decades for home theatre design to move from 5.1 to 7.1 (with a short stint at 6.1 in the middle). Suddenly it appears there is almost no limit to what you can do – Australian speaker manufacturer Krix teamed with Barco projectors and Trinnov to demonstrate a 24.10.10 system at this year’s International Hi-Fi show in
Melbourne. That was a total of 7 front speakers, 27 surround and overhead speakers and 10 subwoofers. Overkill – possibly. Impressive, you bet! However you could be excused for asking who Trinnov is. Simply put, Trinnov make the most advanced Home Theatre processor on today’s market. If you want to best it will be Trinnov. In a nut-shell (it is impossible to fully cover this product in this newsletter) Trinnov processors decode Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS Digital Surround
and DTS-HD Master Audio. Their bass management is the best in the industry, and they can precisely localise every speaker’s placement regarding distance, azimuth and elevation. Despite the obvious performance of the processors themselves, it is possibly the room optimisation that impresses us most. Switch their room optimisation off and it sounds like a totally different room, and a vastly inferior system. Their 2D/3D loudspeaker remapping opens new perspectives in high-performance immersive sound, putting the listener right in the middle of the action. It presents an incredibly realistic, lifelike and holographic multidimensional soundscape. The two processors we offer from Trinnov are: • The 16-channel Altitude16 – $23,500 • The 32-channel Altitude32 – $31,500 to $46,000.
23
Naim
Naim streamers
T
he latest streaming components from Naim have hit the shelves and have already made an impact. While they are building on the success of their previous streaming platform, these units are essentially completely new products, but feature the classic Naim styling of old. Each unit shares the main streaming model and accepts higher sampling rates than their predecessors: up to 32-bit 384kHz PCM, and DSD 128.
Control is through the Naim application (available for iOS and Android phones and smart devices) but they are also Roon compatible. Tidal, Spotify Connect and Chromecast (up to 24-bit/192kHz) are built in, as is UPnP for your network storage devices, and aptX HD Bluetooth and AirPlay are both on the menu. In-store, on top of the audio performance, we have also noticed a distinct improvement in the stability of network connectivity.
NdX 2: The mid-range NDX 2 ($9,750) incorporates many of the same features as the flagship ND 555, including the 5” colour screen that beautifully displays cover art while playing. The Burr-Brown PCM1792A DAC handles the same high-quality files. The internal toroidal transformer has separate windings for the analogue and digital sections, but the unit can be upgraded with an external power supply for even better sonics.
Nd 555 (above): the flagship ND 555 ($25,500) requires also the 555 PSU ($13,250), and the performance reflects what you would expect from components in this bracket. The digital components are completely isolated in an internal ‘faraday cage’ from the power and analogue boards which are suspended with a brass sub-chassis for vibration isolation. The twin PCM1704U-Ks are the highest spec Burr-Brown chips available.
Naim mu-so special editioN The Naim Mu-so is celebrating “four years of awards and 5-star reviews” with the release of a special champagnefinished edition. With a redesigned anodised aluminium finish on the external metalwork and a uniquely coloured grille, this makes a memorable first impression or new addition to your Naim network. Despite being limited to 2000 units world-wide (with only very limited numbers available in Australia), the Mu-so Special Edition costs the same as the black version at $1,899, so act quickly if you want a piece of history.
Nd5 Xs 2: While the entry-level ND5 XS 2 ($4,750) lacks the colour screen, it still achieves an exceptional level of quality behind the brushed-aluminium. This used the lower-spec Burr-Brown PCM1791A DAC but has the same streaming card as the other models that use the low-voltage differential signalling (LVDS) to route the digital audio signal. The NDX 2 and ND5 XS 2 will be in store for demo soon, but all units are now available to order.
24
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
800 Series Diamond 802 Prestige in Santos Rosewood
Prestige Series Special Edition Available Now
805 Prestige Also Available
To find your local Dealer visit www.bowers-wilkins.net or contact Bowers & Wilkins Australia on (02) 9196 8990
BowersWilkinsAu
The origin of true sound
DUNTECH • SERHAN+SWIFT • HALCRO
HOME-GROWN!
DUNTECH SENATOR
D
untech holds a very special place in the heart of many Australian audiophiles. Not only were they undisputedly one of the finest speakers ever built, they were designed and manufactured here in Australia. Unfortunately the company folded late last century and the name languished for some time. Then local speaker manufacturer Kiat Low from Orpheus Loudspeakers acquired the company in 2008, and has spent many years improving on the original design. Following reports coming out of both the recent Hong Kong and Guangzhou (China) audio shows it became apparent that Kiat had produced something special with his new Senator. We have since had the opportunity to try the speaker in our showrooms, which confirmed this. We are not sure what impresses us most about this speaker. Firstly they are very, very good, in every way worthy of carrying the Duntech badge. Just as impressive is the price – the Duntech Senator sells in Australia for $20,000 the pair, and this is a remarkable speaker for the price. In fact when you compare them to many ‘name’ speakers at the same price the difference is more than considerable. To top it off the build quality and finish of the Senator would be one of the best we have seen at any price. The only downside is availability. The first two (sizeable) production runs were sold out to overseas markets. Hopefully by the time you receive this, the third production run will be available – if not there could be short delay in supply. We have been promised a pair for our floor though, so feel free to come in and have a listen.
26
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
Duntech • Serhan+Swift • halcro
HOME-GROWN!
Special edition
Brigadier Mu.2 By Serhan+Swift
A
nother notable Australian speaker manufacturer is Serhan+Swift – previously Brigadiers-OneAudio. (Coincidently Brad Serhan was the previous owner of Orpheus Loudspeakers prior to selling it on the Kiat Low of
Duntech, opposite). This is the company responsible for the Brigadier Mu.2 speaker we have been enthusing over in previous newsletters. Serhan+Swift have just released a Special Edition version – the Brigadier Mu.2 SE. A new crossover utilising more exotic components together
with cabinets finished in hand-oiled timber veneer has elevated what was already a remarkable compact speaker to an even higher level. If you are in the market for a high quality bookshelf speaker you should have a listen to these – they don’t come much better.
halcro eclipse
O
ne of the finest amplifiers every built was from Australian company Halcro – in 2002 renowned review publication Stereophile carried the DM58 on its cover, calling it ‘The best amplifier ever’. Unfortunately, despite worldwide acclaim, following a take-over of the parent company in 2008 the brand disappeared. In 2015 Halcro was acquired by Adelaide company Magenta Audio, and under the watchful eye of the original founder Bruce
Candy, the new Halcro team have spent the last few years on further research and development of this fabulous amplifier. We have been promised the first Halcro Eclipse pair of monoblock power amplifiers to come off the production line, and should have them in store well before Christmas. Keep an eye on our social media and website – we will be shouting from the rooftops when they arrive. The Halcro Eclipse amps will sell for $126,000 the pair.
27
RUARK AUDIO
Ruark MRx
R
uark have made a big name for themselves with their range of desktop radios and compact systems. They have now released the MRx, a product that is a slight departure from their traditional line-up. The MRx is a network connected wireless speaker. Designed for smaller areas, kitchen, bedrooms etc. or secondary listening areas it can also be linked (wirelessly) to their R2 Mk2 desktop system. It
28
is Bluetooth enabled, plus with its internet connection can access online services such as internet radio, Spotify, Deezer and Tidal. The controller located on the front of MRx allows volume and source to be easily changed, but for full remote control they have an impressive dedicated app for iOS and Android devices called Ruark Link. This allows full control of all MRx functions and also displays information on the source material being played. Price is $799.
Ruark’s MRx network-connected speaker has access to online services as well as Bluetooth streaming and sharing from the R2 Mk2 desktop system.
Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
TOP GIFTS ACCESSORIES AND TWEAKS! Les Davis Turntable Mat
Pre Cut Triangle Speaker Cable French speaker manufacturer Triangle have released two pre-terminated (banana to banana) speaker cables to complement their range. Both utilise high purity oxygen-free (minimum 99.99%) copper. Symphony 25A: $299 for a 2.5-metre pair Opera 25A: $179 for a 2.5-metre pair.
Using the same viscoelastic technology as the smaller 3D2 discs we’ve been stocking for some time, this slipmat is designed to place constrained layer vibration control at the most critical junction, the interface between the vinyl disc, the record platter and the stylus. Price $165.
inakustik Carbon Fibre Brush This antistatic carbon-fibre brush, with more than a million extremely fine fibres, is especially effective at removing even the tiniest grains of dust and particles of dirt that can become lodged in record grooves. The result is an audibly improved sound experience and a longer life for your record collection. Price $19.95
SPECIAL!
Peachtree shift – price reduced from $529 to $399
inakustik Gel Absorbers The Reference Hightech Gel Absorbers from inakustik form a solid sound base that is available as a combination set for all weight classes. They have a special gel at their core that absorbs vibrations. This set contains 12 gel pads for various weight classes for the optimum tuning and decoupling of the devices and loudspeakers. Price $399 for a set of 12.
The shift is a USB Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier housed in a small and portable chassis roughly the size of a deck of playing cards. It is designed to completely bypass the headphone output on your smartphone, tablet or personal computer and provide exceptional sound quality – wherever you happen to be listening. The built-in battery pack provides up to eight hours of playback on a single charge so shift is a perfect for travel.
KirmussAudio Record Cleaner This patented record suspension system safely cleans records of all sizes (7”, 10” and 12”). Records are submerged in a heated bath of distilled water and cleaning solution, while anti-bacterial surfactant solution is also supplied and a special purpose goat-hair brush to ensure complete restoration. Price: $1799.
29
Top GifTs, ACCEssoRiEs & EssENTiALs
Musical Fidelity V90 LPS The quality of your phono stage is widely overlooked for new adopters of vinyl, but a great unit can really bring more “life” to your records. This compact unit from Musical Fidelity is a modestly priced, very high performance MM/MC phono stage with superb technical performance. This is a great option for those exploring the capabilities of vinyl and is available in silver for $349.
Inakustik cables Inakustik have quickly established themselves in Australia as a leading highend cable manufacturer. Their premium cables are hand-built in Germany, with their very top offerings (such as the pictured LS-2404 AIR speaker cable) using extraordinary technologies and detail to push the envelope of cable design. While it’s easy to dismiss cable manufacturing as a black art, these are vital links between your system components, and the difference a high-quality cable can make in the right system is easy to demonstrate. Inakustik has a wide range of signal and speaker cables at different price and system levels – we can explain more in-store, or check our newly redesigned website!
Mo-Fi Vinyl We are delighted at the revival of vinyl, and we carry a range of vinyl in our store, including the audiophile pressings from Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs. MoFi, as it’s known, has been releasing audiophile pressings since 1977, and goes to extraordinary lengths, loaning original master tapes that are delivered from record company vaults under high security, and then working with a variety of engineering legends and companies to create new disc masters to the very highest quality, often using half-speed mastering to capture all the detail of the originals. Many of their albums play at 45rpm, so that an original single album is divided into two LPs. For the vinyl lover in your life (or perhaps for yourself), it’s hard to imagine a better Christmas gift than a Mo-Fi LP!
Meridian Explorer2 DAC It is now an even better time to get a hold of the Meridian Explorer2 DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter). This is a great solution to maximise the quality of sound when outputting from your computer, and you can take full advantage of MQA (from the TIDAL streaming service) to get easy access to hi-res audio. Price $479.
30
Musical Fidelity BHA200B Balanced Headphone Kit This system combines the MF200B headphones and V90-BHA headphone amp, using balanced connections that are normally the reserve of much higher priced systems. The MF200B headphones sport a 40mm driver with the balanced connection and a cable running to both ears, while the V90BHA headphone amplifier measures a compact 47x117x70mm (HWD) and offers balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, plus balanced mini XLR and 3.5mm headphone outputs. Price reduced from $899 to $499. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook
Top GifTs, ACCEssoRiEs & EssENTiALs
AudioQuest DragonFly Red & Black While the original DragonFly defined the market for micro-DACs, its USB power draw made it compatible with computers only. Music lovers have craved a more portable version — one that could be reliably used with Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. The DragonFly Black and DragonFly Red do just that. Convenience and performance are no longer mutually exclusive. With DragonFly Black and Red, any computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone can be used as a true high-fidelity music player, allowing music lovers to enjoy beautiful sound wherever they go, whenever they please. The DragonFly Black is priced at $160. The DragonFly Red is priced at $320.
Tivoli Audio
T
he Tivoli Model One has been on the market for almost 20 years, and it is still going strong. However technology moves on, and Tivoli have released an additional range of products (the Art Collection) to reflect these changes. What has not changed is their commitment to producing some of the best-sounding radio-based products on the market.
Model One Digital
Orb
MusicSystem+
Loosely based on the Model One, this unit has DAB+, FM, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It merges the simplicity and user-friendly features that Tivoli Audio’s classic line is known for, but with a tech refresh.
This wireless speaker can be configured to offer mono, stereo (two Orbs) or multi-room audio playback. It can be free standing, or you can hang it on the wall. There are multiple finishes available.
Tivoli have reduced the prices on most of their range, and the Music System+ has been reduced from $1,299 to $999. This stereo unit incorporates CD, DAB+ and FM radio, Bluetooth, dual alarm and remote.
31
Guess who’s back.