Len Wallis Audio Headlines - Winter 2016 by nextmedia Pty Ltd

The Newsletter of Len Wallis Audio

Meet Peachtree ‘2.0’ Computer audio redefined

Beyond 4K

Panasonic goes ‘Ultra HD Premium’

AVENTAGE YAMAHA

First of the new networked AV range

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(02) 9427 6755

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Winter 2016

IT’S A RIPPER!

Musical Fidelity delivers a total hi-fi solution

B E S T AV R E C E I V E R U N D E R $ 2 ,0 0 0

NR1606

Slim, sophisticated, and well connected 7.1 channels of Marantz sonic purity plus advanced network and control capabilities connect you to a world of stunning sound. Wired or wireless, your music and soundtracks come alive with authentic power and passion. Life-size sound and world-class quality in a compact AV Surround Receiver.

www.marantz.com.au

Available at

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Inside... 04 From the desk of Len

06 Bowers & Wilkins delivers the flagship 800 D3 – come and hear it at our B&W 800 D3 evening! 08 Panasonic goes beyond 4K with Ultra HD Premium 10 Theta & Tales – Triangle’s new subwoofer series

Stax amazing earspeakers – new models, new prices!

Yamaha’s first 2016 AVENTAGE receivers

14 We cry ‘Encore’ for Musical Fidelity 16 The sound of experience Len’s interview with ‘Audio Esoterica’ magazine 18

AudioQuest reinvents the DragonFly headphone amp/DAC for mobile use

19 Tivoli’s latest PAL radio glows in the dark! 19 Oppo goes custom 20 Peachtree Audio changes products and philosophy 23 NAD’s Master Series pre-power combination 24 Sangean shows how smart a radio can get 26 Wireless noise-cancelling from the new Bose QC35

27 Krell’s bulletproof DAC 28 SPECIALS from Musical Fidelity, NAD and Richter 30 Len’s top tweaks 31

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

The Len Wallis Audio Service Centre

EDITORIAL

FROM THE DESK OF LEN

he High End show in Munich has come and gone again for this year. This show has firmly established itself as the most important Hi-Fi show in the world. It is a large facility, with over 500 exhibits, many showcasing numerous brands. The main difference between this show and other large shows such as CES is that it is dedicated purely to Hi-Fi. Home Theatre, Custom Installation and car stereo products are almost nonexistent. It really shows the scope of this industry: it takes a couple of days to get around all the rooms (and even then many of the rooms only get a cursory glance),

it is extremely busy – and then you realise that there are still a considerable number of major manufacturers who are not exhibiting. Once you get through looking at the brands and products that are relevant to us, it is fun to check out the weird, the wonderful, and the completely over the top – and there is plenty on show. This industry attracts a hard core of extremely passionate designer/manufacturers whose end goal is to wring the last ounce of performance out of their product – at any cost. The Acoustical Systems Apolyt turntable (below) is one product that caught my eye. It weights 380kg, is delivered in seven roadcases, and would cost in excess of $500,000 in Australia. Having initially dismissed it as a marketing folly I was surprised to learn that they had sold seven units – and that was prior to the show! One company that was not at the show (I understand the decision to exhibit was made late, only to find that the show was sold out) was Bowers & Wilkins, but they did take the opportunity to secure space in a downtown hotel where they formally released their flagship ‘D3’ speaker, the 800 D3 (see overleaf on page 7 for details of our very own release night). The engineering behind this speaker, and the

entire D3 range, is extraordinary. I have no doubt that this speaker, like the rest of the D3 series, will be a big success. It brought home to me what a disadvantage any budding speaker designer is at today when the resources that a company like B&W has to allocate to a project like this are vast, and impossible to duplicate on a limited budget. The show proved that this industry is alive, growing, and still in the process of great change. I heard some great sounds (and some pretty poor ones) and came across many brands that I was not familiar with. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

Musical FideliTy Merlin sysTeM and r o u n d Ta B l e The Musical Fidelity Merlin System and Round Table turntable is a unique departure into multi-format audio for this traditional UK Hi Fi company. Comprising a 50 watt per channel amplifier with inputs for phono/AUX, USB, aptX Bluetooth, line in digital or analogue and high quality headphone amplifier. It has dual 24bit/192kHz DACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and an Analogue to Digital Converter for digitising vinyl and other analogue sources. The Musical Fidelity Merlin speakers are an attractive, compact, low distortion, flat response full range design with diffraction multiplier. The Musical Fidelity Round Table is 33/45RPM belt drive design featuring unique balanced centre of gravity, custom polymer drive belt and a 25 year old aged African Blackwood pulley. It has a 230mm long aluminium tonearm with a mass of 14 grams. The Round Table comes standard fitted with the ubiquitous Audio Technica AT 95e cartridge but will suit cartridges from 5 to 13 grams in mass.

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BOWERS & WILKINS

Diamond Smile The Bowers & Wilkins 800 D3

think it would be fair to say that the recent Bowers and Wilkins 800 D3 release has been a success – sales have certainly exceeded our expectations. When B&W announced the pricing for this series, which was well up on the previous range, I thought they would have a tough time getting traction in a tough market. I am now firmly convinced that this latest series, despite the significant price hike, offers better value than the preceding range. The D3 roll-out is now about to be completed with the impending release of their top-of-the-line 800 D3 (pictured). I was fortunate to attend the official launch in Munich in May, and despite having dealt with B&W for three decades I still came away with renewed admiration for the expertise and passion that this company has for its products. The level of engineering that has gone into this model is exceptional – this is not just another speaker rolling off the production line, there has been eight years of design go into this product, and it shows. They claim that this is the best speaker that they have ever produced, which is a big statement, particularly as their $99,000 Nautilus is still being manufactured. The new 800 D3 shares the same high frequency/mid-range driver assembly as

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by Len Wallis

the very popular 802 D3. However that is where the similarities end. The use of improved crossovers and capacitors ensures that the performance of this driver assembly is superior to the 802. There are 2 x 10” bass compared to the 8” drivers used in the 802, which utilise a new improved carbon-fibre material. The motor assembly and magnet structure has also been improved on. Possibly the biggest change, though, is in the cabinet construction. The timber matrix design is reinforced with aluminium sections, and is rigidly coupled to the inner face of the cabinet with thick steel plates, resulting in an extremely inert structure. Surprisingly though, B&W have been able to shoe-horn these improvements into a product that is almost the same height as the 802 D3 – and which also weighs almost exactly the same. This is much more than an 802 D3 with better bass (even though that would be a great result). It is a better speaker in all respects, a speaker that I believe will shake up the very high-end of this market. The 800 D3 is due to be released in Australia in September (please see details of our release night in the panel here). It will come in three colours – High Gloss Black, High Gloss White and Rosewood – and will sell for $44,900 the pair.

SPECIAL EVENT EVENING

THE 800 D3 LOUDSPEAKER HAS LANDED!

Len Wallis Audio & Convoy International (distributors of the Bowers & Wilkins speaker range in Australia) would like to invite you to our showroom on the evening of Wednesday 21st of September 2016 at 6.30pm, where we will be holding a special event to introduce the highly anticipated Bowers & Wilkins Flagship 800 D3 Loudspeaker. This special night will feature demonstrations of this phenomenal loudspeaker that has been some eight years in development. On the night we will also be demonstrating the other exceptional models in the 800 Series D3 range including the 802, 803 and 805. We hope you will join us for drinks & nibbles whilst you experience the new Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series speakers. This is a very special event and one that is sure to be very popular. Make sure that you get in early with your reservations. We will be restricting our participant numbers to 35 only, so please send your RSVP to: meenak@lenwallisaudio.com.au or phone us on 9427 6755 to make your reservation for special event!

PANASONIC

Panasonic’s ‘Ultra HD Premium’

hen we suggest an audio system at Len Wallis Audio, we strive to recreate the sound that was developed in the recording studio. Now, with the launch of the new Panasonic ‘Ultra HD Premium’ DX900 series, this company has created televisions that are able to reproduce the video director’s vision more accurately than ever before. This picture is so stunning and comprehensive in its colour output that

it is one of the few available consumer screens to receive THX certification. Panasonic’s flagship makes full use of HDR technology (see opposite) to reproduce the brightest brights and details in the dark areas of the screen at the same time. High-end LCD-LED panels utilise ‘local dimming’ to alter the LED lighting behind certain areas of the screen, depending on the brightness of the image. The DX900 has hundreds of local sectors ‘honeycombed’ behind the screen, the brightness of which can be individually

controlled to create superior contrast levels. Coupled with the latest Ultra HD resolution processing, the resulting picture is truly breathtaking. There is more to this television than incredible visuals. If you’ve ever had to fight over what shows to watch, you’ll be thankful of the inclusion of Panasonic’s dual tuners. All of their Ultra HD screens have them. Not only can you view a second channel with picture-in-picture, you can stream the image to another device on your home network — like a Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

PANASONIC and a number of other applications from the Panasonic App Market. A planned Firefox update due later this year will provide even more functionality, including seamless transmission of content from both Android and iOS devices.

UHD Blu-ray One of the main challenges of having a 4K Ultra HD television has been getting the best quality content to highlight what these magnificent screens can do. While there is lots of UHD content available through streaming services, Panasonic was the first in Australia to announce a 4K Bluray player for domestic distribution, the new DMP-UB900. This 4K Blu-ray player also reads and outputs HDR content, to give your movies a greater brightness

range, better contrast and a wider colour response. It will also make all your existing Blu-ray discs (1080p) look sharper with its 4K Direct Chroma Up-scaling function. Len Wallis Audio hosted the national media launch for Panasonic last month and we had the opportunity to put the DX900 through its paces paired with the UB900 player. We are used to the lovely contrast of colours in the desert scenes of Mad Max: Fury Road in our 4K projector room but when the crispness of the resolution was matched with the stunning contrast of an HDR screen it made us recall the days when Vieras were the leader in Plasma technology. Panasonic is making a serious claim to being the best in the business once again – it’s difficult to argue based on what we experienced first-hand.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) smartphone or tablet. And with the ‘TV Anytime’ feature, you can actually stream content from your TV over the internet to a device anywhere in the world! So if you are missing your favourite show while on vacation in Bali, simply connect to your TV via the internet and catch up while sipping a cocktail on the pool deck. Of course all the Smart TV models use the Firefox 2.0 operating system and allow you to access the latest internet streaming services (e.g. Netflix), catch-up TV (e.g. ABC iView, SBS on Demand)

It seems that every year there is a new buzz-word that all TV manufacturers are pushing. This year it’s HDR. High Dynamic Range has been around for some time (especially in photography) but it is getting more attention this year as HDR video content is finally becoming available. HDR helps your TV to display the fine detail in the darks of a picture while maintaining the brightness in another section of the same image. For example, in the image above you can

still make out detail and colour in the clothing, while the brightness of the sun and the colours of sun, sky and sea maintain their vibrancy. The figure might have been simply silhouetted in near-solid black without the improved dynamic range available from HDR. Look for televisions with superior local dimming to truly take advantage of HDR content. This means that your TV will be able to vary the strength of the LED backlight behind small individual sectors of the screen.

TRIANGLE

Thetis and Tales

Triangle’s new subwoofers

riangle has released a new range of subwoofers, and they are in stock now. Built on many years of Triangle expertise, these subwoofers successfully blend high performance with compactness that lets them blend seamlessly with home interiors in either their Gloss Black or White finish, perfect for enhancing the delivery of the lower frequencies of your system, with deep and dynamic delivery of bass notes perfectly expressing the power and energy of your movies and music.

Triangle Tales 340

Triangle Thetis 320

Triangle Thetis 280

The Tales 340 subwoofer offers greatvalue performance to improve your system dynamics, while its timeless design easily integrates into living or entertainment rooms. Offering a capable 10” driver with half roll suspension and a Class D amplifier of 200-watts RMS (350-watts peak power), it is the perfect choice for discovering high fidelity in stereo or to give a breathtaking cinema experience. It also features automatic standby, and crossover frequency settings which allow you to accurately adjust sonic levels to your listening preferences. The Tales 340 retails for $999.

The Thetis 320 subwoofer has a closed cabinet equipped with a 10” driver with half roll suspension, and in order to reduce vibrations, the cabinet has been carefully designed with ingeniously placed internal reinforcements. Equipped with a Class D amplifier of 250-watts RMS (400-watts peak power) for a very capable bottom end, it comes with a remote control and a sound level indicator on the front panel so you can blend the level to your preference. The Thetis 320 retails for $2,199.

The Thetis 280 subwoofer has a closed cabinet equipped with an 8.25” driver with half roll suspension. Again the cabinet has been carefully designed with internal reinforcements in order to reduce vibrations, and this is a usefully small subwoofer design, measuring just 320mm high, 280mm wide and 280mm deep, yet still capable of producing significant sound for such a small enclosure. With power rated at 150-watts RMS, it comes with its own remote control and a sound level indicator on the front panel for adjustment, like the bigger Thetis 320. The Thetis 280 retails for $1,599.

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STAX

THE ULTIMATE GETS MORE AFFORDABLE New Stax earspeaker systems

n the last edition of Headlines, Len came away very impressed from listening to Sennheiser’s incredible successor to the Orpheus headphone system. But perhaps few of us can stretch to $70K plus for such an ultimate headphone! The far more affordable Stax range of ‘earspeakers’ with their dedicated driver units make a compelling and realistic alternative. We mentioned last issue the release of the new SRS-5100 system from Stax, which will be replacing both of the existing SRS-3170 and SRS-4170 systems. The SRS-5100 system comprises the SR-L500 electrostatic ‘earspeaker’ and

the SRM-353X driver unit, and is priced at $2,999 for the combination. It’s an exceptional performance to be sure, though also quite an investment. For those who are new to the Stax range and just getting started, there is a new ‘entry’ combination, now that Stax have effectively released three new earspeaker models – the SR-L300 ($749), SR-L500 ($1,249), and top-of-the-range SR-L700 ($2,499) – as well as a new driver unit, the SRM-353X (priced at $1,899). That allows the new ‘entry model’ combination from Stax in the SRS-3100 earspeaker system. While it slots in below the SRS-5100 system, there’s nothing

remotely entry-level in terms of musical performance. The combination of the new SR-L300 earspeakers and dedicated SRM252S driver (pictured) provides an access pass to a superb electrostatic headphone experience, with an amazing 7Hz to 41,000Hz frequency response! The SRS-3100 system is priced at $1,399. For those wishing to go higher, the SR-L700 is a magnificent headphone, one you need to spend some time listening to, so bring a playlist to the store and spend some time getting to know the SR-L700. We think you’ll be very glad you did. We could speak for pages about the engineering details in Stax’s superb designs. But it’s what the system can do that really matters, and how it makes the listener feel. These are systems which can immerse you in rich deep bass response, delicate high frequencies and soothing mid-range, all balanced perfectly – as if you were present during the original recording. We’ve said many times about Stax products – once you’ve experienced the magic of their electrostatic ‘earspeakers’, there really is no going back. They are highly recommended.

YAMAHA

AVENTAGE to Yamaha

ew from Yamaha this month, the RX-A760 and RX-A860 network AV receivers – the first models from the new 2016-7 AVENTAGE RX-A 60 series, which combines immersive ultra-high definition home entertainment and leading edge multi-room capabilities. Yamaha has a long and distinguished history when it comes to producing high quality items founded in the company’s knowledge of musical instrument production and research in acoustical

The AVENTAGE RX-A760 (below) features 7.2 channels, enabling Dolby Atmos and DTS:X in 5.1.2 channels, or able to output 5.1 channels plus Zone 2 with auto switching. The AV receiver offers 90W per channel and six HDMI inputs (three with HDCP 2.2) with one HDMI/HDCP 2.2 output. The Yamaha RX-A760 is priced at $1499.

science and engineering. This latest series of AVENTAGE networking receivers certainly honours this heritage. They are crafted with the highestquality components, obsessively matched and engineered using short signal path runs, painstakingly grounded circuit boards and secure anchoring by a sturdy frame-and-beam chassis design, all to provide the ultimate sonic excellence. Both of the newly-released models cater for 4K Ultra HD video and have HDMI ports capable of high dynamic range (HDR) passthrough. This ensures the ability to enjoy pictures with four times higher resolution than 1080p ‘full HD’ and the widest possible contrast ratio, ranging from nearly perfect black to more than 1,000 nits of peak brightness. The result is breathtakingly pristine 4K Ultra HD video delivery supporting 3840 x 2160p resolution up to 60Hz high frame rates, coverage of the BT.2020 wide color gamut, 10-/12-bit colour, 4:4:4 chroma subsampling, and HDCP 2.2 copy protection.

For goosebump-inducing home theatre experiences, the onboard DSP processors enable out-of-the-box support for a wide range of surround sound, including the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based sound formats just as you would experience in a commercial cinema. This means the capability to run overhead height channels for incredible helicopter flyovers! The ‘760 and ‘860 receivers also include built in Wi-Fi with MusicCast wireless multi-room audio capability. In addition there is Bluetooth for connectivity to music services and to smartphones or tablets, easily streaming music through the AV receiver. High-resolution audio capability is also here, with the ability to process music files including ALAC up to 96kHz/24-bit, WAV, AIFF and FLAC to 192kHz/24-bit, and DSD to 5.6MHz. Both the RX-A760 and ‘860 models include the proprietary YPAO sound optimization system. YPAO has the ability to automatically analyse speaker placements, then tune and calibrate sound

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YAMAHA

The AVENTAGE RX-A860 (above) is also a 7.2-channel network AV receiver, so enabling Dolby Atmos and DTS:X set-ups of 5.1.2 channels or a 5.1 channel zone plus Zone 2 with auto switching. The AV receiver steps up to 100W per channel and eight HDMI inputs (three with HDCP 2.2) and dual HDMI/HDCP 2.2 outputs. The Yamaha RX-A860 is priced at $1799.

equalization (EQ) is also supported and subwoofer parametric EQ down to 15.6Hz. Further, the Yamaha Compressed Music Enhancer is now optimized for Bluetooth audio transmission to ensure wirelessly delivered music remains clean, crisp and complete with a full range of sound. Finally, vinyl music lovers haven’t been forgotten, with both the ‘760 and

‘860 models featuring phono input with preamp support for turntables. Even better, the MusicCast capability means that you can even send music from a turntable (or CD or virtually any source) to MusicCast-enabled products in other rooms in the house. The MusicCast app ties it all together with simple operation using iOS or Android smart devices.

levels to the dynamics of the specific listening environment. This ensures the sound experience is tailored to the unique conditions of each home. Subwoofer

MUSICAL FIDELITY

Available in August

BEYOND M6 Encore 225

To think of Musical Fidelity’s new Encore 225 (above) as a conventional CD player would be a mistake — it’s far more than that. Sure it plays CDs, but it’s also a disc ripper, a DAC and an amplifier, all in one box! The CD ripper is mated to an upgradable 2TB Hard Drive and a 64-bit Intel CPU,

with 2GB of RAM that you can also upgrade. As a DAC/preamp it accepts almost any conceivable analogue or digital audio source, and can handle audio files up to 32-bit/384kHz. It also has networking capabilities, meaning it’s compatible with many multi-room network speakers, such as Sonos. And as if that’s not enough, its own internal

amplifiers offer an incredible 225watts per channel. Just add loudspeakers! Easy operation is guaranteed thanks to a large, clear, full-colour high-res display, and the choice of using the supplied remote control or iOS or Android apps. It’s one of the most formidable all-in-ones we’ve ever seen. The M6 Encore 225 retails for $7,995 RRP.

M6 Encore Connect

M6 ENCORE 225 IN BRIEF • Huge connectivity • Upgradeable 2TB internal storage for over 2500 CDs (bit-perfect ripping from CD drive) • Power amplifiers are the same as those in Musical Fidelity’s M6si • Compatible with many network speakers, such as Sonos

• Easy and intuitive to use • Large, high resolution, full colour display • Control with either IR handset or Apps (both Apple and Android) • 32-bit 384k DAC • Dual-core 64-bit Intel CPU (as future proof as Musical Fidelity can make it)

The M6 Encore Connect (pictured top right) offers the same exceptional functionality as the 225 but without the onboard amplifier capability. So it provides an audio source and preamplifier component, with a CD player/ripper and an upgradable terabyte of internal storage (or 2500 CDs) keeping all your music in one place, while the analogue preamp section provides both fixed and variable outputs. The fixed outputs are perfect for connection to an existing system, while the variable ones can directly drive separate power amps or active speakers. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

MUSICAL FIDELITY

CD The brain of the Encore Connect offers the same powerful dual-core 64-bit Intel CPU with 2GB of RAM found in the 225. With plenty of performance headroom it also enables continual upgrading, making the Encore virtually future-proof. The M6 Encore Connect retails for $6,495 RRP.

Available in September

M6 ENCORE CONNECT IN BRIEF • Huge connectivity • Upgradeable 2TB internal storage for over 2500 CDs (bit perfect ripping from CD drive) • Analogue preamp providing fixed and variable output • Easy and intuitive to use

• Compatible with many network speakers such as Sonos • Large, high resolution, full colour display • Control with either IR handset or Apps (both Apple and Android) • Dual-core 64-bit Intel CPU

stage that has a sweet, clear sound with no coloration and excellent accuracy. The LX-LPS retails for $795.

LX-LPS IN BRIEF

LX-LPS Dual Input Phono Stage Musical Fidelity has launched a new and very high performance MM/MC phono stage with two turntable inputs. Each input has an extra pair of input sockets so you can achieve exact impedance matching. The circuitry is derived from the MX-VYNL so it

is unsurprising that the technical performance is outstanding. Signal-to-noise ratio is excellent; in use, the LX-LPS itself is virtually inaudible. RIAA correction is incredibly accurate and, importantly, extends out to 80kHz so that there is no overshoot or ringing. Distortion is negligible from 20Hz-20kHz. The end result from this longstanding British company is a wonderful phono

• Separate MM/MC selectable inputs • Extremely accurate RIAA extending out to 80kHz • Distortion is negligible from 20Hz-20kHz • Excellent overload margin • Excellent channel separation • Customisable loading plugs • Beautiful build quality

LEN WALLIS AUDIO

The Sound of Experience “Buying audio without hearing it is like buying art without seeing it...”

s hi-fi a personal endeavour or an expertise? Many music lovers will have purchased a hi-fi system and set it up themselves — but at what level might audio system design be considered a service as much as a retail experience? When should you bring in experts to advise, install and deliver the best solution for your needs? “It really is essential,” Len Wallis tells Audio Esoterica magazine in their latest issue. “Someone setting up their system for the first time is on a big learning curve, and that usually means a mistake or two. At any one time we are dealing with a number of issues that have arisen through clients going it alone, or worse, relying on others who are not trained in the tech

nology, only to come unstuck. In the worst cases this means that the true potential of the system may never be realised.” Besides the value of advice in avoiding mistakes, there is also the unique ability to try before you buy. “To me, buying any audio component without hearing it first is like buying art without seeing it,” says Len. “It fascinates me that people can buy gear without an audition, yet we do now see this on a regular basis.”

Try the sports car... At a fundamental level, he says, good dealer advice is often required just to establish what level of audio a customer should be considering.

“Something that we have seen regularly is that most people don’t really know the value of what they are looking for,” he says. “Many people are not even aware of what to expect. This is particularly true of younger listeners, many of whom have been brought up listening to MP3 with cheap earbuds. Once they are exposed through a demonstration it opens up a whole new world for them. “The most accessible marketing media is of no help in this situation. No one pushing a $149 Bluetooth speaker in the press is going to admit that the sound is pretty crap, and price points are being constantly driven down by the boxmovers, who really have the marketing clout. You will only learn this through a Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

LEN WALLIS AUDIO

well-structured demo. It is not uncommon for someone to come in with a set budget, only to find that their expectations are not met at that price point, and assuming that they have the available funds, they are happy to re-set that budget accordingly. A proprietor of a very successful chain, many years ago, once said that the motor car industry does itself a huge disservice by not ensuring that every member of the public gets to drive a sports car. This industry is no different.” The need for advice rises exponentially when it comes to planning a home cinema or a smart home, such as the Len Wallis Audio installation pictured on these pages. “With a home cinema, there are many factors that need to be considered,” says Len Wallis, before running through a extensive checklist of potential issues. “This is a sizeable investment on something which hopefully will have plenty of use. The money to be saved by going it alone is wasted if you only get 75% of the performance from the final

result. Unless the customer has the time and inclination to study the subjects fully, they should rely on their dealer.” Len is even more adamant about planning a smart home. “Unless you have a strong interest in this area and are that way inclined, don’t even attempt to do this on your own,” he advises. “Most people have no idea of the cost involved — it is usually far greater than expected. Most people don’t know what is possible, and request things that they don’t need — which is not an advisable direction. An automated home is a considered investment which should start with a lengthy consultation, and be prepared to work through amendments as the project is fleshed out.”

Two-channel auditions The assistance of a good dealer can help in any number of ways when building a higher level of two-channel system, even if the customer has done their initial homework, suggests Len.

“Despite the fact that many dealers deride forums and blogs, they do provide a degree of insight into the performance of various pieces of equipment,” he admits. “However, even the best reviewed equipment from the top magazines does not necessarily suit everyone’s ears or requirements. All dealers have a wealth of knowledge at their disposal, and once a client can explain what they need or like, it is up to the dealer to point them in the right direction. This can actually save a lot of time and mistakes. It is up to the client to ask questions, if they know the right questions to ask, and to listen and take in what their dealer is suggesting to them.” And with the proper advice, you can enjoy true hi-fi sound. You might call it the sound of experience.

THE VINYL FRONTIER

This article appears in the new issue of Audio Esoterica magazine.

WORLD FIRST

Audio Union’s Döhmann Helix 1

ISSUE #1-2016 $9.95 NZ$11.99

DIGITAL ART Accustic Arts’ versatile Player II

1-2016 AE116_001 Cover R.indd 1

ICON RETURNS

Yamaha’s new NS-5000: re-inventing a classic

9/06/2016 10:18 am

AUDIOQUEST

Iron out the bugs! AudioQuest DragonFly Red and Black

udioQuest’s thumb-sized DragonFly has been updated and replaced. There are now two models of this remarkable USB-powered headphone amp plus DAC to choose from, being the DragonFly ‘Black’ and ‘Red’ models. The compact 62 x 19 x 12mm dimensions are unchanged. So what’s new? Quite a few bits (pardon the pun), as it turns out. Gone is the older 24-bit ESS 9023 decoder, in comes a new 32-bit ESS 9010. This includes a minimum phase filter which, according to AudioQuest, will provide the listener with “a more naturally detailed and dynamic” experience. The big news is that each new model of DragonFly can also accept a digital signal from an iOS device or an Android device running 4.1. Plug an OTG USB cable into your Android device or a CCK (a small ‘Camera Connection Kit’ adaptor,

as pictured below) into an iPhone and you can use either new DragonFly for portable audio that’ll sound considerably better than your phone’s headphone socket. It makes these little Flys the perfect portable solution for the mobile audiophile. What are the differences between the models? The Black runs an output voltage of 1.2 volts, making it suitable for most

normally efficient headphones. The Red, meanwhile, is the sports-car version, with a 2.1-volt output and 5dB more signal-to-noise via a “superior sounding” 32-bit ESS 9016 decoder chip and 64-bit, bit-perfect digital volume attenuation. The Red can drive some quite demanding headphone models. Both models can handle all file types and high-resolution up to 24-bit 96kHz, delivering great portable headphone sonics from such a very tiny device. The DragonFly Red sells for $320; the DragonFly Black is all yours for $160.

OPPO • TIVOLI AUDIO

ON! COMING SO

GLO with the flow always been something of a standout, with clear and clean reception the norm, especially on the FM band. In more recent times Tivoli has been expanding its appeal by adding Bluetooth streaming capability, and also achieving a substantial 16-hour battery life – making it a pretty compelling travelling companion or portable entertainment solution.

Now comes this Limited Edition, the PALBT GLO, with a weather-resistant clearfrost housing and splashproof speaker. But its best party trick is the dimmable LED illumination which makes the entire unit glow like a safety night-light – handy for night time camping, kids’ bedrooms or just setting a relaxing mood on the balcony after a long day at work. The PALBT GLO is exclusively available from us in NSW in strictly limited numbers – so if you’d like one, get in touch soon, as we expect these to sell out quickly. The Tivoli PALBT GLO is priced at $399.

for the custom integration market. With the model designation of BDT-101CI (CI for custom integration), it includes a comprehensive feature list based on the award-winning 103/105 series players, but differs in being a modular design, so that it can be made to order. The player can be ordered with one HDMI output, or customised with a second, providing

one for a projector and another to the AV processor or receiver. For custom projects where the signal needs to travel a long distance, an HDBaseT module is also available to deliver audio and video over Cat 5/6 cables. And for analogue audio connections the BDT-101Cl can be customised for either stereo two-channel or 7.1-channel surround output. While the first Ultra HD Blu-ray players are now appearing (see Panasonic on page 9), the BDT-101CI is not a native Ultra HD player, though it can upscale Blu-rays to 4K for a suitable television or projector. We see the BDT-101CI as a workhorse disc player – excellent, cost effective and reliable – with the option to add an Ultra HD player in the future for native 4K.

Tivoli PALBT GLO – Limited Edition

ivoli Audio’s PAL radio has been around for a number of years, and it’s consistently received favourable reviews. For good reason too – the PAL has always offered remarkably rich sound for such a small mono speaker device; it has a footprint of less than 10cm square. The analogue-only radio reception has

OPPO GOES CUSTOM Oppo’s Blu-ray players have gained the highest of reputations for their quality and robust operation. Now the company has launched an alternative Blu-ray Disc Transport designed especially Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

PEACHTREE AUDIO

Shaking the Peachtree

Peachtree ‘2.0’ & the nova150

ore than a decade ago a small firm based in Atlanta, Georgia launched with a selection of distinctly affordable DACs and integrated amps, their existence motivated by the thennascent computer-audio market. Peachtree Audio were clearly innovators, identifying a market for quality computerbased music amplification and playback well before anyone else got serious about it. As a result their products earned them a deserved and dedicated following. Now a significant revamp has emerged, with Peachtree launching the first in a new line of Integrated Amplifiers to replace the previous ‘nova’ series. Introduced under the guise of the ‘Peachtree 2.0 series’, the first of these new generation amplifiers is the nova150, to be joined later in the year by the more powerful 300 and 500 series amps. Visually the nova150 doesn’t look that different to the previous generation 125/225 amps – a good thing, as these have always been classy-looking products, the nova150 sporting a rounded, wellfinished veneer and minimalistic brushedaluminium front fascia. The big changes come both on the inside of the new 2.0 range and also

philosophically in how the company seeks to position itself going forward. So the nova150 is an integrated amp, USB, DAC and headphone amp in one box. It puts out 150W of ‘ICE power’ into 8 ohms (double that into 4 ohms), and houses the ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC which can handle PCM resolutions up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD128. Inputs include asynchronous USB, coaxial digital and two optical digital inputs as well as a phono (MM) input, and a Home Theatre Bypass! A discrete, custom-designed headphone amplifier fills out a rather compelling and comprehensive package.

The 2.0 approach Just as interesting is the new 2.0 approach from Peachtree. In a reverse of what many have been doing, they’ve moved manufacturing back to Canada from China,

introducing strict new quality control in every phase of production, and hiring a new team of engineers! These are certainly not the actions of a company looking to cut costs; clearly they are focused on strengthening their reputation as a high quality and innovative manufacturer. This is complemented by a new approach to retailing, in which smaller bricks-andmortar hi-fi stores are being given the nod over internet sales for new products! Have Peachtree Audio recognised that a new era of hi-fi is upon us with a return to quality two-channel products mixed with new technological innovation supported by good old-fashioned service and customer relationships? We certainly hope so! There are a number of interesting features coming in the pipeline for Peachtree Audio, including Wi-Fi capabilities (UPnP/DLNA) and iOS/Android apps that support multi-room control. Peachtree have always had a leadingedge feel to their products, and with the new series of nova 2.0 products and a refreshed approach to manufacturing and retailing, this looks certain to continue for many years to come. The Peachtree Audio nova150 retails for $2499 in Gloss Black, $2599 in the pictured gloss ebony.

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PEACHTREE AUDIO

Peachtree sonaAMP & sonaDAC package

n more news from Peachtree, the company’s new sonaAMP power amplifier and sonaDAC has arrived at Len Wallis Audio, and what a dynamic duo this is! Peachtree Audio’s philosophy has always been that a Hi-Fi system should easily integrate into your home and provide exceptional sound quality without costing a fortune, without weighing as much as a small car, and without requiring a science degree to switch on and use! So the ‘sona’ concept at its core is simple: a line of audio components with audio performance similar to the much larger offerings in the Peachtree range, but in a chassis that is a fraction of the size, weight and cost. Ever the innovators, Peachtree have pulled this off by using the latest advancements in DAC and amplification technology combined with clever engineering. The results are impressive. What has been achieved here is first-class performance squeezed in a small and highly appealing design form that fits almost anywhere. Inside the quite tiny 251 x 266mm footprint of the sonaDAC there is a reference-quality digital-to-analogue converter, a balanced line-level preamplifier and a high-performance headphone amplifier. And using the same footprint, the sonaAMP features an impressive 150 watts-per-channel stereo amplifier able to handle impedances as low as 2.5 ohms and as high as 16 ohms. Like we said, impressive! We think this is going to be equally at home whether on your desktop as a DAC/headphone amp driving highperformance headphones, OR powering a pair of high quality bookshelf speakers – in fact there’s more than enough power here to use it with floorstanding speakers if you wished to do so! The advantages of being so easy to place into any room and incredibly simple to operate will win these new Peachtree

units many friends, especially with features like the innovative volume control bypass that makes using both streaming devices and traditional digital components painfree and effective. In conclusion what we

SonaDAC in detail The sonaDAC is three components in one: a reference-quality digital-to-analogue converter, a balanced line-level preamplifier and a high-performance headphone amplifier. The sonaDAC utilises the highly regarded ESS 9018 Sabre Reference DAC

have here is a small, affordable, stylish and high performance two-channel solution that represents a future direction of audio separates. The Peachtree sonaAMP/DAC package is $3399.

designed for natural music reproduction and an extremely low noise floor. SonaDAC is also a personal audio listening station, with an extremely powerful and noise-free built-in headphone amplifier that makes listening to music through headphones an absolute delight. In addition, the sonaDAC is a balanced line-level control centre that can drive any power amplifier or powered speakers via its XLR or RCA outputs. For a complete Peachtree solution, the sonaDAC can be paired with the sonaAMP for a high-performance, fully-balanced hi-fi system that takes up roughly the same space as two hardcover books!

SonaAMP in detail The Peachtree Audio sonaAMP is the perfect companion for the sonaDAC – an impressive 150 watts-per-channel stereo amplifier with balanced design, wide bandwidth and low-noise design to provide exceptional sonic purity, ensuring that your loudspeakers are driven to their full potential. The sonaAMP also features a trigger input allowing it to be turned on/off automatically by the Peachtree

sonaDAC (or by other preamps that have trigger outputs).

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NAD

Masters of Sound NAD M12 / M22 combination

he M12/M22 combination from NAD’s Masters Series has been out for a little while now, but we thought it was a good pair to revisit, having proven a fine combination worthy of consideration. The M12 is a Direct Digital preamp and DAC. It offers superb flexibility through NAD’s Modular Design Construction (MDC), meaning that it has rear panel slots that can take various input modules, so configuring the preamp to your needs. There are three slots filled as standard – one analogue module and two digital. The first provides balanced and line-level inputs plus a configurable phono stage for MM or MC cartridges. The second module offers digital inputs – two coaxial, two optical and one XLR-type AES/EBU, while the third module accepts USB sources, with both a USB type-A slot and a type-B socket for connection to a computer. But other options are available, depending on your needs. An HDMI card is available that provides three inputs for AV equipment, with 4K HDMI passthrough for the monitor. There is also a streaming module, which is particularly attractive since it is fully compatible with Bluesound, NAD’s parent company’s wireless hi-fi brand. This means the M12 can become a Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

fully functioning part of an extended Bluesound system – it can work with a Bluesound Vault, with any USB or NAS drive, or with NAD’s own Master Series M52 Digital Vault. And you can then use the excellent Bluesound control app to navigate your music collection or connect to Spotify, Tidal and other online music sources, including internet radio. Behind all this is exceptional audio quality. All signals are raised to a high bit-rate and remain unconverted back to analogue in a traditional sense. The result is an exceptionally fluid sound from one of the most flexible pre-amps on the market today, combining the all the benefits of modern streaming and digital sources,

yet still able to play from LP and other analogue sources. The M22 digital power amplifier is the perfect partner to the M12, with the two linked via balanced or line-level connections. This Class D switching amplifier has almost supernatural reserves – 2 x 250-watts very conservatively rated, or a gobsmacking 355-watts of dynamic power per channel into eight ohms, up to 640-watts into 4 ohms! It can power virtually any floorstanding speaker to live performance volumes without breaking a sweat, and at very low levels of distortion. As part of NAD’s top-range ‘Masters Series’ this combination brings the company’s all-digital architecture to a flexible and futureproof modular design with extremely powerful amplification and a very smooth sound with very low distortion. And of course the fact that they look superbly stylish and purposeful is just the icing on a very tasty cake. The M12/M22 combination retails for $11,999. We highly recommend visiting the showroom for a demonstration.

SANGEAN

Premium radio… plus streaming Sangean’s WFT-3 radio tuner & media streamer

angean has been a go-to brand for premium radio tuners in the industry for some time now, and for good reason. They have consistently turned out products with excellent build quality and signal performance – and this WFT-3 is no exception. This model features superior reception and sound quality thanks to its high sensitivity DAB+ and FM digital signal receivers. But there’s a lot more to the WFT-3 than just radio. It works with the UNDOK app for iOS and Android smart devices, so that when connected to your network via either its Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections,

it delivers quite incredible flexibility. In addition to being able to tune in to DAB+/FM stations, UNDOK adds internet radio, accessing over 12,000 digital radio stations worldwide. There is also UPnP network streaming, so you can listen to your favourite tunes stored on your computer. There’s even Spotify Connect, so you can use the Spotify app on your phone and have the Sangean take over streaming direct from the internet. As if these many abilities aren’t enough, there’s also a clock and alarms,

plus easy adjustments available for treble, bass and EQ sound effects. You can connect headphones to the Sangean via a port on the fascia, and it plays through your system via the analogue stereo or digital optical/coaxial outputs at the rear. The WFT-3 features a quality black chassis that won’t look out of place in any home entertainment set-up as it delivers on its many abilities. The control buttons on the front are self-explanatory and provide menu/volume/band control, while the clicking scroll wheel works well to speed up the selection of stations, tracks and other menu items displayed on its easy-to-read high-resolution 3.2” colour TFT display. It comes with its own infrared remote control – plus, of course, you can use the UNDOK app to control the unit from your smart device. The Sangean WFT-3 is priced at $549.

There’s a lot more to the WFT-3 than just radio. It works with the UNDOK app for iOS and Android smart devices to deliver quite incredible flexibility... 24

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ANY TUNE. ANY ROOM. WIRELESSLY. HEOS is a family of wireless music players that allow you to fill every room with music and control it all effortlessly from your Apple or Android device. Plug in, connect to WiFi and play. Easy.

www.heos.com.au ANY ROOM OR EVERY ROOM

MULTIROOM PORTABLE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

HEOS 1

BOSE

Bose NC goes wireless The new QuietComfort 35 headphones

here have been rumours abounding for some months regarding a new range of wireless headphones from Bose. Wireless operation has been a missing feature on the existing QC25 noisecancelling range – much requested, and now finally available in the new QC35. The QuietComfort 35 is a lightweight and extremely comfy headphone with exactly the same noise reduction capability

that you can get with the QC25, with the same high quality look and finish, but with one distinct and important difference. Remove the cable and you can go Bluetooth, with noise cancelling active! The QC35’s noise-cancelling design features concealed microphones inside and outside the earcups, sensing, measuring and sending unwanted sounds to two proprietary chips, one for each ear, and these respond with a precisely equal and

opposite signal in less than a fraction of a millisecond – noise cancelled! The headphones are also equipped with a new digital equalising system that balances the sound whether you’re listening at lower or higher volumes. The result is superb sound quality coupled with that incredible noise-cancelling effect. Improvements in battery technology have given the QC35 a life of 20 hours before you’ll need to recharge – that’s with Bluetooth and noise cancelling on. In reality that means you could easily take a return long-haul flight and never need to charge these headphones. A remarkable achievement. Bose arguably do ergonomics better than anyone, and this is reflected in the integrated remote on the right ear-cup with buttons for adjusting the volume, controlling playback and answering and ending calls. Very easy to use. The QC35 also come with a cable if you want to go wired, and they work with Bose’s free Connect app for iOS and Android devices. The Bose QC35 is available in White and Silver finishes and is priced at $499. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

KRELL

The Krell Vanguard Universal DAC

he Krell Vanguard Universal DAC is now available, effectively the first standalone DAC from Krell in over 20 years, and it’s certainly been worth the wait. It is packaged full of features including USB, HDMI, coaxial and optical digital inputs; Ethernet music streaming controlled through dedicated iOS and Android apps; and aptX Bluetooth for wireless streaming from phones, tablets

and computers. Coax and HDMI inputs support computer audio PCM files up to 24-bit/192kHz, while the optical input supports PCM up to 24-bit/96kHz. The digital-to-analogue output conversion stage features 32-bit ESS Sabre DACs (as used in Krell’s top-of-the-line Cipher SACD player) and feeds a classic Krell discrete balanced output stage. It also has two HDMI 2.0 inputs to support DSD and 4K content, and an HDMI output to your screen, which

cleverly includes an Audio Return Channel for use with smart TV streaming services such as Netflix, Vudu and Pandora. Plus there are iOS and Android apps for control and music management – so it’s very much right up to date. USB and network streaming support is also included in the Vanguard Universal DAC, with support for MP3, AAC, WMA, WAV (PCM), FLAC and ALAC up to 24-bit/192kHz. There is even Bluetooth streaming capability here, including the higher quality aptX technology for devices that support it. If you’re looking for an up-to-theminute DAC that is still going to be futureproofed for years for come, the Vanguard Universal DAC has all the high quality of engineering that we’ve come to expect from Krell. The Krell Vanguard Universal DAC retails for $8,795.

The digital-toanalogue output conversion stage features 32-bit ESS Sabre DACs as used in Krell’s top-of-the-line Cipher SACD player... 27

SPECIALS! MUSICAL FIDELITY

SPECIAL!

Merlin and the Roundtable Now more SPECIAL than ever!

usical Fidelity’s compact, multiformat audio system features a design that is at once both beautiful and contemporary. Note the loudspeakers’ subtle elliptical shape with very fine finish; the amplifier with a custom-made extrusion, beautifully machined top form and elegant front panel; and the turntable offering a simple, minimalist style. The whole system has been designed to Musical Fidelity’s bespoke specifications, and so Merlin features the highest-grade components and technologies, many of them found in the company’s more expensive audiophile products. Although Merlin is sleek and compact, don’t think you’re missing out on abilities here. The main unit offers an impressive choice of analogue and digital inputs, including USB from computer, and Bluetooth streaming too, all ably handled by twin 24-bit, 192kHz DACs. Then at its

heart Merlin uses twin high-specification high-grade amplifier modules, running as completely separate monoblocs to minimise unwanted noise and distortion – peak power into the loudspeakers is a comfortable 50 watts per channel, allowing the system to replay music with high resolution, fast dynamics and accurate transients. The integrated headphone amp is also of a very high quality, being based on Musical Fidelity’s dedicated audiophile V90 HPA model. So whether listening through the Merlin 1 speakers or your favourite headphones, there is ample capability here. The Merlin loudspeakers also include a new Musical Fidelity innovation – the company’s exclusive diffraction multiplier system that allows the relatively compact speakers to offer a huge but accurate stereo soundstage. Rather than the normal flat front baffle, the Merlin calls

on Musical Fidelity’s years of experience of designing high-quality dipole speakers for its multi-stepped baffle which combines with a single wide-dispersion BMR driver in each speaker to offer near-field flat frequency response, low distortion and a real hi-fi sound quality. Finishing out the package is the turntable – or ‘Roundtable’ as Musical Fidelity calls it. The Roundtable offers a stable low resonance platform for vinyl disc playing, and includes a high quality low resonance 9” pick-up arm (magnetic anti-skating) with steel-tipped bearings housed in zirconium with rubber damping, not dissimilar in principle to the Incabloc shock protection system on watches. The vertical bearings are ABEC7 ball bearings. It is fitted with an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge. • The Musical Fidelity Merlin and Roundtable package is now available for the special price of $1798. • The Merlin Amp and Speakers are available separately for $899. • The Merlin Roundtable turntable is available separately for $899. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

RICHTER • NAD SPECIALS!

SPECIAL!

NAD C 165BEE / C 275BEE Pre-Power Amplification If you’re looking for a fine combination of comprehensively equipped pre-amp and superbly powerful power amplifier – at a price that will delight the wallet – then this offering we have from NAD could well be the answer! The C 165BEE stereo pre-amp’s combination of new semi-conductors and improved production techniques (including the use of surface mount devices) has created opportunities for performance far beyond expectation when compared to previous products in this price range. The NAD C 275BEE power amplifier boasts many upgrades and refinements taken directly from the highly acclaimed NAD Masters Series M3 Amplifier. These include the application of Bjorn Erik Edvardsen’s innovative and patented Distortion Cancelling Circuit in the output stage and BEE Clamp in the power supply. A carefully engineered PCB layout has reduced distortion and noise to unprecedented levels. Taken together, these improvements mark a sharp upturn in performance that simply must be heard to be fully appreciated! The NAD C 165BEE / C 275BEE pre-power amplification combination is selling on Special for $2799.

SPECIAL!

Richter Sorcerer Integrated Valve Amplifier If you haven’t experienced the magic of Class A valve sound with Richter’s hand-made Sorcerer amplifier, then you really need to give it a listen. This is an amplifier designed to bathe you in warm, clear sound from premium electronics and genuine state-of-the-art tolerance-matched KT 120 vacuum tubes – the new ‘king’ of valves. But it’s also bang up to date, making your digital music files sound better than you ever thought possible thanks to the Sorcerer’s 32-bit 384kHz USB digital-audio converter (DAC). There’s also a minijack option to accept today’s portable digital devices!

The Sorcerer is big brother to Richter’s Mystique amplifier and it lives up to Richter’s ‘best value for money’ tradition established since 1986 by its award-winning speaker range. Richter’s speakers are, of course, perfectly matched to its amplifiers, their efficient design producing room-filling clarity. But don’t take our word for it – the proof of Class-A sound is in the listening, so come down to the showroom for a listen, and be enchanted by the Sorcerer’s Class-A magic. The Richter Sorcerer Amplifier is now on Special for $2999.

ACCESSORIES

LWA’s top tweaks Getting the most out of your system doesn’t always mean you have to spend up big. We’ve put together six of our favourite tweaks to help you get more out of your system and musical enjoyment.

Pro-Ject Cork it

AudioQuest JitterBug AudioQuest’s JitterBug is a digital music necessity. This dual-function USB and data filter simply has no peer in the market and is amazingly effective. It can dramatically reduce the noise and ringing afflicting both the data and power lines on USB ports. Simply inserting the versatile JitterBug

Spin Clean Record Washer Mk2 – get into the groove! Attention vinyl fans! The Spin Clean record cleaning system is the easiest, most effective and most

into the USB input of any computer, laptop, DAC, receiver, streamer, car, or smartphone significantly minimises jitter and packet errors, thereby restoring music’s warmth, dimensions, depth, resolution, dynamics and clarity. Everyone should have at least one of these. Price $79.

affordable solution to cleaning your records and ensuring the cleanliness of your turntable. And unlike other record cleaning methods, the Spin Clean Record Washer Mk2 enables you to clean both sides of your record at once with unparalleled results. Your albums and singles will sound as they were intended to, offering the highest fidelity and most superb acoustic sound. If you’ve been looking for a cost-effective solution for cleaning vinyl records, then look no further – pick one up today and get the grime out of your grooves! Price $149.

Replacement cork turntable mats are an excellent and cost-effective way to tune the sound of your turntable and get the best out of it. Available in a 300mm size (12”) diameter, the ‘Cork it’ works by dampening resonances more effectively than standard felt mats and corrects the overdampening and resultant isolation effect you can get from a rubber mat. The result? Less dust build-up and static, elimination of audible ‘click’ noises during playback, allowing for faithful musical detail to make its way to the soundstage. Price $29.

Good, good, good, good Vibra...pods Unwanted vibrations in your system are never welcome and can sonically compromise musical playback. Vibrapods can fix this by replacing your existing equipment feet (which are often fairly basic) and start soaking up those unwanted vibrations right away. The improvements they can deliver might well be the most cost-effective HiFi tweak on the market today. There are five models to cover differing weights of equipment, from 1kg up to 13kg, so you can get the one that’s right for your gear! Priced from $39.95 for a set of four.

LEN WALLIS AUDIO SERVICE CENTRE

AudioQuest Cinnamon Apple Lightning-to-USB cable With so many of us now using our iPhones as the source to stream or play music, it’s worth investigating better reproduction with a high quality cable. AudioQuest’s Cinnamon Lightning-to-USB lead helps take you back to the moment of creation so you’ll experience music playback the way the artist intended. This cable is much higher quality than the standard factory specification, offering solid silver conductors to reduce jitter and distortion, Hard-Cell Foam installation to ensure consistent impedance, and 100% shielding from RF interference. Enjoy sound reproduction that is purer and much more engaging. Price $85 for the 15cm cable.

Len Wallis Audio Service Centre

Your one-stop hi-fi service shop

W Peachtree BT1 Bluetooth receiver The Peachtree BT1 Bluetooth receiver is the easiest way to stream music from your phone or tablet to your stereo or home theatre system. Compatible with both iOS and Android devices, you can enjoy all of your favourite apps like Spotify, Pandora and Tune-In radio wirelessly. Simply connect the BT1 to an available optical or aux input on your stereo (using BT1’s included cables) and within minutes you’ll be streaming music from your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or tablet. Price $220. Like /lenwallisaudio on Facebook

e’ve been playing in the Hi-Fi space since 1978. During that time there isn’t much that we haven’t seen as far as Hi-Fi components are concerned. What you may not know is we are also able to cater to your Hi-Fi service needs on site at our business premises at Lane Cove. Aside from our extensive showroom and offices here, we also have a dedicated Service Centre, providing service and repair for your Hi-Fi audio equipment products, whether they were purchased from Len Wallis Audio or elsewhere. In fact we pride ourselves on being one of the very few Hi-Fi audio equipment retailers in the Sydney Metropolitan area that also offers a fully-equipped service department, technical test bench and repair facility on site, staffed by experienced technicians. With our decades of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, you can rest assured that

we have the know-how, capability and experience to service and repair your Hi-Fi components to your satisfaction. We carry a promise – the Len Wallis Audio Service Centre Promise. What this means is we will give you an honest straightforward assessment of your equipment condition, the repairs that are required to get it working properly, and the cost required to do it. Our policy is to offer a quick and reliable repair service which is good value for money. Each job is individually assessed. We do not have target prices or quotas to comply with that may compromise the quality of service outcome – we manage the process end-to-end to ensure it is as painless and efficient as possible. We also have free and easy parking under our store at Lane Cove. To contact the service department please call us on 02 9427 6755 or send us an email with your questions to service@lenwallisaudio.com.au