During a show where SACD and DVD-A were pretty
much "other formats," there were a number of new CD players on display. One of
the most intriguing we saw was the Ensemble Dirondo ($8500), which is engineered like few
others due to its use of multi-layer internal chassis parts and rigid casework.
Samsung displayed a big TV: the
HPP7071 70" plasma featuring 1080P resolution. We were impressed until...
...we found the Samsung HPP8071 plasma that's
a whopping 80"! Prices for both models are not yet available.
In the strikingly beautiful department is the
Sonus Faber Stradavari Homage loudspeaker. This three-way design features magnesium-alloy
woofers contained in a "double-lute" cabinet. The retail price is $40,000 per
pair.
Doug Schneider and Marc Mickelson saw CAD
representations of Atma-Sphere's MA-3 mono amp when they toured Ralph Karsten's St. Paul,
MN facilities. Here the amps are in the flesh, so to speak. The OTL MA-3s put out 475
watts each, and include onboard tube testing and AC-line regulation. The cost is steep
-- $87,000 per pair -- as is the space needed for a pair of these two-box beasts.
High-value analog? Absolutely -- and available
in nine colors. The Pro-ject Debut II turntable is only $249 and includes an OM-5E
moving-magnet cartridge.
