Blue Circle

All prices are quoted in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

Blue Circle Audio had two systems on display, and it was the less expensive one based on the new 50Wpc BC100 stereo amplifier ($1995 CDN), new BC101 preamplifier ($2245 CDN) and Energy C-7 loudspeakers ($1000 per pair) that impressed us most. The cables were also by Blue Circle, but the CD player source was from Kinergetics, about an eight-year-old model that Blue Circle's Gilbert Yeung purchased recently online. With a sound that approached full-range and an overall tonal balance that was spot-on, the system could reproduce any type of music with definition and obvious musicality. Other positive attributes of the system were the exceptionally attractive look of the speakers and the relatively compact size of the electronics. It's ideal for someone who seeks a compact and truly high-end system that sounds great and has room-pleasing aesthetics. [www.bluecircle.com]