Shunyata Research has revised its upper-end
power cords to use a "more complex braid with more smaller-gauge wire." Called
the Helix series, these new power cords retain similar prices to their predecessors. The
top-of-the-line Anaconda Helix Alpha is $1995 and the Anaconda Helix Vx $2195, while the
least-expensive Taipan Helix Alpha is $695 and the Taipan Helix Vx $795. [www.shunyata.com]
Blu-ray disc was in use at CEDIA, but no
consumer products exist -- yet. Above is a one of Sony's prototype Blu-ray players...
...and here is another that we're sure we've
seen in use at other shows.
Yamaha took the concept one step further by
displaying a prototype Blu-ray player/recorder.
We predict that Energy's new Reference
Connoisseur speakers will be challenging much more pricey offerings from other companies.
Their technology, which includes Kevlar drivers that use Energy's Ribbed Elliptical
surrounds, is matched by their impeccable construction and cosmetics. Prices range from
$550 per pair for the RC-10 to $2000 per pair for the RC-70. In between are other
minimonitors, floorstanders, LCR speakers...
...and subwoofers. The new RC-SUB 8 ($900),
RC-SUB 10 ($1200) and RC-SUB 12 ($1600) use a new driver that allows for greater internal
volume with small cabinets. Connectors are completely hidden on the bottom of each
subwoofer. [www.energy-speakers.com]
While most of the differences between
Esoteric's new X-03 CD/SACD player (top) and the established X-01 are internal (including
a slightly different VRDS NEO mechanism and different audio boards), one can be easily
seen (though perhaps not in this picture): the X-03's outer cabinet is made from bent
steel, not the milled aluminum of the X-01's. The X-03 costs $7700, while the universal
UX-3 is $8200.
