Series 3

Mirage introduced new versions of the popular OMNISAT satellite speaker, called the OMNISAT v2, shown in black and silver finishes, priced still at $250 each. New is the floorstanding OMNISAT v2 FS, which has the OMNISAT components mounted on top and uses two active woofers and four passive radiators in the bass section to increase bass output and eliminate internal standing waves inside the cabinet. [www.miragespeakers.com]

Yes sir, that's a brand-new, statement-level turntable and tonearm built from the ground up. Continuum Audio Labs' new Caliburn turntable features a nested platter that is claimed to reduce coloration to microscopic levels. The motor is a battery-powered DC-servo number, and the tonearm is made from compressed hemp fibers. The price? $50,000.

Focus Audio debuted the new Master III speaker ($19,200 per pair), which is a scaled-down version of the statement Master II. The sound was big and lush -- a respite from the often brash demonstrations heard everywhere at CES. [www.focusaudio.com]

The Emotiva LMC-1 (top) is a full-featured, software-driven 7.1-channel surround processor that includes DPL IIx processing and second-zone capability -- for a mere $699. The optional second-zone transceiver shown on top of the unit will be available for approximately $99. The LPA-1 is a multichannel amplifier that can be configured for 6 x 125 watts or 5 x 125 watts plus 2 x 50 watts and weighs 70 pounds. Its price is a surprisingly low $599.

The tubed Onix SP-3 integrated amplifier delivers 38Wpc and is packaged with Onix Reference 1 Mk II speakers in rosewood real-wood veneer for only $1199.

VAC's Auricle Musicbloc mono amps (left and center) and preamplifier ($4990 per pair and $2495 respectively) caught our tube-lovin' eyes. The KT88-based tube amplifiers, along with the phono-stage-equipped preamp, look to offer excellent value for the money.