Ascendo, Convergent Audio Technology, Virtual Dynamics

Ascendo's System M speakers ($36,000 per pair) put on quite a show in the room they shared with Convergent Audio Technology electronics and Virtual Dynamics cables. Driven by CAT JL-3 mono triode amplifiers ($30,000 per pair) and fed by a CAT Ultimate Mk II preamp ($6950) and Reimyo CDP-777 CD player ($14,000), the Ascendos slammed out deep bass and produced a wide, very deep soundstage at seriously loud levels, while remaining edge-free and relaxing. Cables were from Virtual Dynamics' new Revelation series. We listened to this system a few times -- it was an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the CES.