German speaker maker Elac opened our eyes (and
ears) with the innovative new FS 608-4P loudspeaker (7000 € per pair). The
FS 608-4P features Elac's new 4PI tweeter, which disperses sound over 360
degrees. All electronics used were by Accustic Arts: Surround Player I (prototype
SACD, DVD-V, and CD player; no price given), Preamp I (3490 €), and Amp II-AC (8250
€). All cabling -- and even the rack -- was by Accustic Arts, too. Doug Schneider was
quite bowled over by the speakers' airy and detailed sound. The soundfield was
exceptionally wide and well defined. Even off-axis, a credible stereo image and a good
sense of space were maintained.
