ShowStoppers -
Series 1
Classé Audio showed an entire line of updated
products that could only make audiophiles and home-theater enthusiasts drool. Included are
source components, mono and multichannel amplifiers, preamps, and processors -- all with
distinctive curved-aluminum chassis.
This close-up shows the fine metal work as
well as the integral display of the CDT-300 universal transport. The prices of the new
products are not yet set, but they will range from $3000 to $10,000, with the transport
and identical-looking universal A/V player priced closer to $10,000. But there will also
be a two-channel, non-video version of the player available without the display for less
money.
Flying Mole is a Japanese company that's taken
off with the idea of modular digital amplification. The modules used in the product above
can incorporate one or two channels each...
...while these monoblocks use the same
circuitry in a more traditional -- and compact -- form. Prices are $299 per 150W module,
$599 for each 300W module.
Sony debuted its newest SACD player, the
silver-only XA9000ES ($3000), which has X-LINK output for audio and is said to sound
better than the XA-777ES. Yes, this demo unit does have a nasty scratch on the left side
of the faceplate.
Sony also used CEDIA to introduce a new ES
line of DVD receivers that also play SACDs. The AVD-C500ES (top, $800) and AVD-C700ES
($1000) incorporate multichannel playback and amplification, various surround-sound
processing modes, and advanced video circuitry.
Yamaha debuted two gorgeous-looking all-in-one
home-theater/music systems: the DVX-5200P ($999)...
...and DVX-S120 ($799). Both include
progressive-scan DVD/SACD receivers with digital amplification and powered subwoofers. |
