Presenting Yamaha’s extraordinary new AV Receiver series. Models carefully created to give you an elegant listening and operating experience. You’ll enjoy smooth, intuitive control of all your music with a smartphone app that provides clear, attractive graphics. And of course, you get Yamaha’s fabulous sound quality. It’s a beautiful new way to enjoy home AV entertainment.

AV Receiver Series RX-V673 / RX-V573 / RX-V473

Beautiful Performance

Yamaha Music (Asia) Private LimitedShowroom Marketing O�ce6 Ra�es Boulevard #03-321/324 Marina Square Singapore 039594 Blk 202 Hougang St 21 #02-00 Singapore 530202 Tel: (65) 6740 9346 Fax: (65) 6337 0932 Tel: (65) 6747 4374 Fax: (65) 6747 2668

Website: http//sg.yamaha.com www.facebook.com/ymasia

X Audio Pte Ltd 1 Jalan Anak Bukit #01-01S Bukit Timah Plaza Singapore 588996 Tel: +65-6466 2642 Fax: +65- 6466 2652 www.xaudio.com.sg Ac

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GIYA G3A smaller version of the G1 and G2Same dynamic performanceScaled for smaller rooms

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X Audio Pte Ltd 1 Jalan Anak Bukit #01-01S Bukit Timah Plaza Singapore 588996 Tel: +65-6466 2642 Fax: +65- 6466 2652 www.xaudio.com.sg

“... optimal synthesis of traditional tube technology and innovative semiconductor circuitry...”

Authorised distributor for Singapore and MalaysiaBlk 925 Yishun Central 1 #02-229 Singapore 760925 Tel: +65 6756 5585www.audioline-hifi.com

Is it Live or is it VR11?

Da Vinci DACTrue 384K USB DAC

Light Harmonic’s Bit Perfect pursuit of the Ultimate Digital Music Playback Experience

Bit-Perfect Audio x Perfect Timing + Cleanest Power + Vibration Control = Ultimate Digital Music Playback

Sound Decisions Pte Ltd1 Coleman Street #04-49/62 The Adelphi Singapore 179803T: 65-6733-8227 F: 65-6733 8229 www.sounddecisions.com.sg

SOUND DECISIONS PTE LTD1 Coleman Street #04-49/62 The Adelphi Singapore 179803 T: 65-6733-8227 F: 65-6733 8229 www.sounddecisions.com.sg

Proudly distributed in Singapore

w w w . a u d i o p r o . c o m

LV2e Wireless Bookshelf Speakers(limited edition cognac leather)

LV2e Wireless Bookshelf Speakers

LV1 Wireless Desktop Speakers

LV3 Wireless Floorstanding Speakers

The Adelphi #04-35 1 Coleman Street Singapore 179803T: +65-9636-8838

precision, neutrality with utmost resolution...

Soulution 5 series

520 pre amp501 mono power amp540 digital player590 USB Digital Converter

$5999with mystery

bundle package!

SpecialPrice

Sony VPL-HW30ES Full HD 1080p 3D Projector 70,000:1 Contrast Ratio 1,300 Lumens 2D to 3D conversion Variable Iris 240Hz SXRD panel drive system Low Noise < 22dB

Sony VPL-VW95ES Full HD 1080p 3D Projector150,000:1 Contrast Ratio 1,000 Lumens 2D to 3D conversion Iris3 Technology Motionflow Technology Motorized Lens ShftSXRD panel One touch 2.35:1 aspect ratio Low noise < 20 dB

KEC Sound System Pte Ltd 1 Coleman Street The Adelphi #01-25/#04-36 Singapore 179803 Hotline: 6564-3188 www.hifibargain.com

Sony VPL-VW1000ES 4K 3D Projector1,000,000:1 Contrast Ratio 2,000 Lumens Full HD 3D ‘Reality Creation’ 4K upscaling Iris3 Technology Motionflow Technology Motorized Lens Shft SXRD panel Simultaneous Anamorphic and 3D viewing Low noise 22 dB

To render the stunning effects of a

3D projection system, you need a new generation of

screens to match. 3D rely on shutter glasses to render the 3D effect but in doing so, the shutter glasses led

to a light fall off between one to two stops. To make up for the loss of light, you need OS Ultra Beads Premium White (BU-201) or Ultra Beads

Premium Gray (BU-202) screens. These new Ultra Beads (patented by OS) screens uses extra fine 20µ glass beads embedded on the fabric and sealed with a urethane

coating to compensate for the light fall off. As a result, these new screens offer industry leading active 3D polarization while maintaining

outstanding performance for 2D sources.

The Ultra Beads Premium White (BU-201) renders bright and brilliant colours with accuracy. The Ultra Beads Premium Gray (BU-202) takes black

levels to a new high with excellent contrast levels. The new Ultra Beads Premium screens are the best choice for both 2D as well as 3D projectors.

WO KEE HONG DISTRIBUTION PTE LTD1 Jalan Kilang Timor #08-03 Paci�c Tech Centre Singapore 159303 Tel: (+65) 6637 9888 sales@wokeehong.com.sg www.wokeehong.com.sg

Special$2599!

Best Value 3D LCD Projector!

EH-TW6000Full HD 1080p 2,200 Lumens

40,000:1 Contrast Ratio Split Screen feature

$3999+ 2 pairs 3D glasses

The High Performance3D LCD Projector!

EH-TW8000Full HD 1080p2,400 Lumens

200,000:1 Contrast Ratio2D to 3D conversionSplit Screen feature

480Hz Active Shutter TechnologyFine Frame Interpolation

for judder free image

KEC Sound System Pte Ltd 1 Coleman Street The Adelphi #01-25/#04-36 Singapore 179803 Hotline: 6564-3188 www.hifibargain.com

"...Epson's Home Cinema 5010 is a 3D projector done right..." Projector Central

"...here the EH-TW8000 really goes to the next level is the contrast level. At a whopping 200,000:1 it offers inky blacks for fantastic shading and will really take a dedicated home theatre room to the next level..." Projector Reviews

Authorised DealerMusiclink AV 100 Beach Road #02-46/49 Shaw Tower Singapore 189702 Tel: (65)-6291-1106Distributor for Indonesia, Malaysia and SingaporeIntercessor LLP 1090 Lower Delta Road #07-07 Singapore 169201 Tel: (65)-62730873 Fax: (65)-62210959

SV 236 MKHybrid Stereo Integrated Amplifier

Vincent Audio’s Best performance vs Value amplifierjust got better!

Usual $3681 Special show price at MOD DAC 2012 only $2681!Limited sets available, while stocks last!

“...the SV-236MK brings real high-performance sound to the real-world audio enthusiast at a real-world price...” Michael Fremer (Stereophile)

Tube preamp stage - 3 x 12AX7High powered Solid State output stage150 watts per channel RMS 8 ohms250 watts per channel RMS 4 ohmsSimpler and improved circuit layoutWIMA capacitorsBuilt-in voltage stabilizer circuitWBT type binding posts

The AURUM ORKAN VIII intricately combines bass reflex and pressure-chamber technology for rich, clean bass. With a frequency range up to 65 kHz, it brings a radiant sheen to all DVD audio and SACD software and is based on innovative technologies like quadral’s ALTIMA® and ribbon tweeters.

Intricate frequency separating filters and bi-wiring terminals with gold connectors round out the technical profile of this gem of sound.

For its size, its performance capabilities are incredible: a 160-watt nominal capacity and 250 watts of music muscle leave power to spare amidst high dynamics. The AURUM ORKAN VIII makes the case for its unique character as either a stereo unit or a front speaker in a multi-channel system.

Available colours include high-gloss lacquer in black or white, as well as genuine wood veneers.

Technical Data

Type: 3-wayDesign principle: pressure chamber/bass reflexNominal/music power (W): 160/250 WFrequency response (Hz): 28-65,000 HzCrossover frequency (Hz): 330/2700 HzEfficiency (dB/1W/1m): 89 dBImpedance (Ohm): 4-8Tweeter: ribbonMidrange: 170 mm Ø ALTIMA®Woofer: 2 x 170 mm Ø ALTIMA®Dimensions: 102.2 x 22.2 x 44.8 cm HWDWeight: 31 kg

AURUM ORKAN VIIIThe little giant of sound

Authorised DealerMusiclink AV 100 Beach Road #02-46/49 Shaw Tower Singapore 189702 Tel: (65)-6291-1106Distributor for Indonesia, Malaysia and SingaporeIntercessor LLP 1090 Lower Delta Road #07-07 Singapore 169201 Tel: (65)-62730873 Fax: (65)-62210959

Creative Editor

Terence Wongterence@mod-avi.com

Sales n Marketing

Singapore

Wong Ng Lai Lenglaileng@mod-avi.com

Malaysia

Simon Changsimon@mod-avi.com

MOD AudioVideois published by

MODAVI Private Limited

10 Anson RoadInternational Plaza

Unit 21-02S 079903

MICA (P) 169/07/2011

The title MOD AudioVideo, its associated logo or

devices and contents of this magazine is the sole

property of Modavi Private Limited. Reproduction of

either in whole or a part of, is strictly prohibited.

Modavi Private Limited is not responsible for any

ommissions, errors, unsolicited manuscripts,

photographs or other materials. We reserve the

right to edit all relevant materials. Modavi retain

ownership of all materials received published or

otherwise.

Can High End Audio be driven by technology, the same way as for mobile phones and comput-ers?

Look at the evolution of the mobile phone - today, a smart phone (of any make) is not just a phone but also a media player, an internet access device, a social networking device, a camera and god knows what else it can do. I was at the KL high end show and I saw this chap turning on an app on his iPhone and point towards where the music is coming from - in a couple of seconds, the cd album artwork and name of the track is displayed on his phone. Clearly the likes of the mobile phone (and computers) is a game changer.

Now look at something closer to high end - wireless active speaker systems. Creative has something coming out in August/September but we already have the likes of Audio Pro LV2e, Audio Engine, Geneva and even Dynaudio got into the game. Some of these don't sound too bad either and there are many who are ditching audio systems proper for this package of convenience. This, I think, is technology pushing the industry along.

But what we mustn't forget is music is an emotional thing we humans respond to. Convenience is one thing, whether a music system is a smart phone, a wireless active speaker system, a pair of head-phones or a conventional amplifier driving a pair of good speakers, it must first and foremost serve our human's emotional needs. Now before you buy that box 'convenience', think for a moment - does it sound like music?

If not why bother? Move on!

Proudly representing

Modular Audio LLP1 Coleman Street #04-25 The Adelphi Singapore 179803T: +65 6333-0286 M: +65 8201-0233 W: www.modularaudio.com.sg E: info@modularaudio.com.sg

High-end Platinum Speaker Cable

The Disc Energizer upgrades the audio and video performance of your CD, Blu-ray and DVD discs.Winner of Audio Excellence Award 2009 (Japan)

The LP Energizer improves the audio performance of your vinyl LPs and Singles in as little time as 6 seconds, yet the effect lasts for

the total playtime of both sides of the record.

Yamaha AudioVideo showroom opens at Marina SquareYamaha has just opened a show-room within their Marina Square Music School. The showroom highlights some of Yamaha’s most innovative Audio Video products including their Digital Sound Projector, their new line of desktop audio (including the sexy ISX-800), the high-end Aventage AV receivers and their Soavo range of loudspeakers. There is a projector room to showcase their AV receivers and speakers. The Marina Square showroom is at #03-321/324 opens seven days a week.

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Music or Video?or Both?

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Audiophiles face dilemma when it comes to setting up a sound system and home cinema in the same room. Of course if you have two different rooms – eg a study for your music room and a separate ‘family’ room for home entertainment, then it will not be an issue.

In this case, this is an apartment and one extension of the living room, not bedroom, is converted to an entertainment room. The AV and music system is separate – each has their own dedicated components including speakers – all housed in one room. Let’s start with the music system.

The front end is the stacked MSB Platinum series CD transport/DAC/Power supply feeding an Accustic Arts Reference series tube preamplifier and a tube RE 290 Octave power amplifier with its attendant Super Black Box high capacity power supply. The speakers are a pair of Thiel 3.6 on outrigger feet though I was told it is due for an upgrade soon.

The home cinema setup includes an old Panasonic Blu-ray player, a Denon AVR driving Definitive Technologies Mythos speakers (wall mounted), a compact Velodyne subwoofer, Epson TW4500 projector and a motorized Remaco projection screen.

This owner is a true dedicated audiophile cum videophile: how does applying thin black carpeting directly to the walls sound to you? Or the components sit on a custom made massive damped platform? Go figure!

Music or Video?or Both?

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Pretty in White

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Swedish speaker manufacturer GURU only has two loudspeakers in its product lineup but they sure do stand apart from most typical loudspeakers. The small bookshelf QM10 is one impressive loudspeaker – being front ported, the QM10 is small enough to wall mount but delivers a big sound. The larger QM60 floorstander features a staggered tweeter, for time alignment of the tweeter to the midwoofer. Both speakers are finished in glossy automotive paints – brilliant white or the conservative black. They look and sound stunning, visually adaptable to modern decor.

See how do they blend in this room? Sweet isn’t it? Now, in your mind, substitute the white QM60 for another pair of speakers finished in walnut or rosewood. Hideous isn’t it? The QM60 is a simple looking 2-way floorstand speaker in what GURU calls the speaker loading as ‘Helmholtz resonator’ which is a fancy way of saying it is some form of ported speaker design!

The system is a music plus home cinema setup. The GURU QM60 are used for 2-channel music playback as well as the front left and right speaker for home cinema. For the centre and surround speakers, three units of Cornered C5 are used, they are positioned up high between the ceiling and walls. Amplification comes in the form of a Marantz AV7005 processor preamplifier and two units of power amplifier from Wyre4Sound – the powerful two channel ST-1000 for the QM60 and a three channel MINI MC drive the centre and surrounds. The source is either a Starhub cable TV box or the popular Oppo 95 universal Blu-ray player which is a pretty good CD player given its use of the famous Wolfson DAC. And yes, there is a subwoofer hiding beside the couch – a large old school active Hsu Research sub.

The system is in the living room of the apartment and furnishings are rather bare – coupled with glass doors to the balcony on one side and open access to the kitchen area, it would be quite a tough job for ANY sound system to sound correct. Yes, the sonic character of the room does add a slightly more ‘live’ feel, a slightly longer delay. The system was playing a Blu-ray disc - ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ and dialogue sounded great despite the centre speaker being some ten feet high up to the ceiling! The ability of the Cornered C5 to ‘project’ the sound towards the listening area is quite amazing! The high ‘up to the ceiling’ C5 surround didn’t sound too bad either.

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Cornered Audio C5s makes great discrete transducers ...

... even when they are ten feet high up to the ceiling!

Von Schweikert is ‘da OneFlexible and Adaptable, the VR44 is the one!

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The new Von Schweikert VR44 is fast becoming a winner, replacing the stalward not to mention a bit of an aging VR4S, the new VR44 incorporates a lot of the technologies when the Unifield series and the larger VR9 and VR11 were developed. Chief designer Von Schweikert offers the new VR44 in two variants – as a normal passive loudspeaker or with an active woofer system. Clearly the active woofer version is fast becom-ing the preferred choice. I’ll tell you why.

In this setup, the VR44 is placed in a very ‘typical’ apartment style layout – unequal distances to the side-wall for the left and right speaker. Herein lies one of the real benefit of the active VR44 – you can independently adjust the bass amplifier setting for the left and right speaker. Obviously the speaker on the right is closer to a corner and that adds considerable ‘room gain’ causing excessive boominess for a typical speaker. Not the VR44! The VR44 allows the right speaker to be tuned independ-ently of the left speaker – without having to move the speaker an inch. Another benefit is the very wide placement of the distance between the left and right speaker in this setup. Too close together and you get a thick and muddled upper bass, lower midrange. Too far and it goes the other way. With the VR44, all you need is to tweak the bass levels and low pass crossover and voila, you get perfect balance! Try that with any other speaker!

With an active woofer system, the amplifier only needs to drive the midbass and tweeter – relieved of the load of the large and power hungry dual woofers, amplifiers behave more lithe and consequently would have much more overheads than when tasked to drive a speaker full range. So a ‘low‘ powered 100 watts Dartzeel integrated amplifier drives the VR44 with distinc-tion. A simple CARY Audio CD500 CD player fronts the system with affordable Von Schweikert cables for the full setup.

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From Home Cinema to 2-channel ...this system does it all!

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This setup has an interesting twist, with a top notch projector system, discrete amplification with a first class Sound Processing Preamplifier and first class speaker system; it is all ready as the ultimate Home Cinema setup. Except it became more of a music system than for home cinema – thanks to the Bel Canto DAC 3.5VB and iTunes!

The audio system starts with an all Bel Canto setup – the CD-2 transport and DAC 3.5VB combo, a P3 VB preamplifier both VB components are powered by Bel Canto’s virtual battery supply – the VBS1. The Thiels CS3.7s are driven by a pair of Bel Canto’s powerhouse – the REF1000M monobloc amplifiers. That’s the two channel setup. They can be seen sprawled on the floor between the speakers. The JL Audio Fathom f113 was discretely sitting in one corner (two would be nice), behind the right front speaker.

For the additional components that make up the Home Cinema setup comprises a Marantz AV7005 processor preamplifier. One unit REF500s stereo power amplifier powers the surrounds, the Thiel SCS4 and another REF1000M monobloc drives the Thiel MCS1 center channel. Not forgetting the source components – cable TV box, Apple TV streamer, Oppo BD95 Blu-ray player, PS3 and Xbox360. All these AV components are housed in a built-in cabinet on the side.

The video projector, a JVC RS55, hangs from a long pole mounted into the attic ceiling. I was told the long run of HDMI cables poses a problem with his earlier Blu-ray player – the signal loss over the long run of HDMI cable resulted in no ‘handshake’ between the unnamed player and the JVC projector. No fault of the projector though, but the Oppo BD95 works a dream.

The room, which is also the attic of this house has extensive wall paneling with solid wood strips. The 130-inch OS anamorphic screen is impressive and fills the room right across the width of the room, subject to the sloping roof. Bass traps were placed at the corners, behind the Thiels 3.7 to prevent bass energy built-up. Blackout curtains flanks the two rows of windows on the left and right side of the room.

In case you may have noticed, the owner of this system is also an avid collector of toy models including Star Wars, Avengers, Gundam, etc. Housed all around the room and in glass showcases, it is almost a museum of collectables!

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download MOD AudioVideo eZine formatted for iPAD*

www.mod-avi.comwhere all the action is!

*PDF download on iPAD requires iBook (free download from Apple App Store) also can be downloaded on Android tablettes, PC or Macs Computers

The Tannoy Mercury series has a long history in the Tannoy line up, sporadically popping up now and then in our memory between one generation and the next. The latest in the Mercury series is the V series and seemingly running into end of line when the last of the alphabets are used up!

The affordable price points of the various models in the V series, none of which exceeds $1000, means they make good candidates for home cinema when 5 speakers or more is a necessity. With a little tweak to the design to take on the extreme output level demanded in home cinema seems to do no harm to the sound. As speakers for music listening, the Tannoy V truly deserves the accolade for its all round balance, big soundstage and a very accommodating sound.

The V1 bookshelf is a rare find, for less than $400, you have a nicely finished two way loudspeaker in a simple boxy cabinet. The woofer is a 130mm ‘Multi-fibre coated pulped paper cone’ finished in a sophisticated silvery finish. The tweeter is a ‘25mm Nitro-urethane layer dampened woven polyester dome, neodymium magnet assembly’. The use of neodymium magnet for the tweeter comes as a surprise for such an inexpensive loudspeaker. The plastic polyester dome tweeter is a nice change from the popular but harsher sounding metal dome tweeters. The speaker is front ported allowing more flexibility in placement, however it is not

Mercury V1 bookshelf $375/pairMercury V4 floorstand $950/pairMercury VC centre $329Mercury VR rear/surround $350/pair

bi-wirable. Tannoy claims the crossover uses premium components, silver plated wiring and ‘Differential Material Technol-ogy’ for damping the high frequency capacitors. The enclosure uses 15mm MDF panels with an 18mm MDF baffle with lots of internal bracing. Many speak-ers twice this price don’t have this priviledge. The V1 is a bargain for its sound and especially its built. Oh, in case you want to wall mount the V1, it has VESA screw holes prepared for you.

If you can afford the space for a floorstander, you should be looking at the larger V4. With a larger enclosure, larger dual 6-inch midwoofers, the V4 plays louder, goes deeper with even better integration with a subwoofer for home cinema applications. Standing almost a metre tall, the V4 is rear ported, its placement would mandate some space between the back of the speaker and wall. I did say, ‘if you can afford the space’ didn’t I?

The centre VC and surround channels VRs complete the home cinema package. The VR is identical to the V1 except for the reduced depth of the enclosure and the drivers are inverted – when you wall mount the VR, the inverted arrangement brings the tweeter closer to your ear level. Of course there is no reason you cannot wall mount two pairs of the VRs for front left, right and surround left, right or even a stereo pair for placement in tight spaces where the V1s would be a feeling a little cramp on their performance. There is even flush mount screw holes to just hang the speaker directly onto the wall via decent sized wall screws sans brackets. The smaller enclosure does sacrifice some degree of bass extension but even so, it has enough extension to merge well with a subwoofer at 80 Hz.

The compact VC makes use of smaller dual 4-inch midwoofers in a rear ported design. They can be used as table top place-ment or wall mount with a speaker bracket. The VC is a shielded design though it is less of an issue today given the flat panel plasma and LCD TVs are not in any way affected by magnetic field from speaker magnets.

The Tannoy Mercury V series are available at KEC Sound System.

Tannoy Mercury V series

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Acoustic SignatureASCONAIf luck has anything to do with it, then Acoustic Signature must have it in spades. Not only did the company come right in the beginning of the vinyl revival, sometime in ‘97, Gunther Frohnhofer thought it was kind of stupid to do turntables then. I am glad he did, without which we won't have the likes of the awesome Ascona!

We are getting ahead of things, Music Image has brought in the Acoustic Signature Ascona in time for MOD DAC 2012 and what an impression the turntable has on me! Sitting on its dedicated stand (7000 Euros), the flagship Ascona (22,000 Euros) is the pinnacle of German engineering in turntable design. Gunther took the lead to tell us more about this turntable, and Acoustic Signature in general.

Gunther: In ’97, vinyl was in the dark ages, supported only by a small number of people who collects them. Who would have thought that vinyl made such a strong come back! The key to Acoustic Signature rise is partly due to the strong revival as well as the decision to make use of an industrial design house to give Acoustic Signature a unique look. That includes the Ascona.

The Ascona scores several world’s first – it is a three motor design.

MOD AV: I don't see three motors…

Gunther lifts up a thick aluminum plate over the motor to reveal there are indeed three motors driving the main pulley. The thick aluminum plate is the flywheel.

Gunther: From a single motor to the 2nd motor, the flutter is down by 40% however the third motor has no measurable influence but you can hear what it does, it sends more energy to the platter. The three motors are placed equidistance at 120 degrees and use three square belts. We tried using from 1 motor to 2 motors (placed at 180 degrees) and the difference in sound quality is very good, then we add the flywheel which improves this further. Then comes the third motor, we are finally, satisfied!

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The belt is an important element in the design. We grind the outside so that it has the same thickness and then cut into belts. It is not just any molded rubber belt.

The flywheel, it has a huge contribution to stability and reduces noise. The low frequencies benefited the most, there are more details and more energy. Then we have the rotational energy stabilizers – fitted to the flywheel which damps the flywheel and adds mass to the rim. Assembly of the flywheel is complicated, using many hours of experienced hand labour to make each one.

We oversized the platter to enable the energy stabilizers to be fitted around the rim. For the platter, it is cast from a soft aluminium alloy which gives it good periodic damping. Then we drill holes at certain intervals and then proceed to insert brass weights into the platter. The brass ‘silencer’ weights do not contact the platter – ‘O’ rings on the top and bottom of the brass cores hold the weight in place, leaving an air gap only a fraction of an inch between the brass weight and the drilled hole in the platter. It is a precision process. The addition of the brass ‘silencer’ inserts not only adds mass but also damps the platter. We measured the effect of the inserts, it stops ringing very much faster! The platter adds no sound to the LP.

MOD AV: I notice the motor uses a switching power supply…

Gunther: It solves a lot of problems – it is multi-voltage, it converts to 24V DC that goes through a DSP motor control unit where it generates a pure AC sine wave for the motor. This is used even for our cheapest turntable, not just the Ascona.

Now the bearing is quite unique. First we use a self-lubricating plastic, Tidorfolon, which is much harder than Teflon, and also has no need for lubricating oil. The bronze sintered bushing is heated up and then soaked in oil. The heated bronze will soak up the oil within its microscopic pores and the oil is retained there. This bearing is mainte-nance free and runs forever. We offer a ten-year warranty for the bearing.

MOD AV: It has a mat or the LP sits directly on the platter?

Gunther: It has a leather mat, it sounds better and unlike felt, it does not shrink after some time. It has a special stamping on the surface of the leather, it makes a difference vs one that is not stamped!

All the little things come together in the Ascona to give the most natural and musical sounding turntable.

Mr Acoustic SignatureGunther Frohnhofer

Three motors better than one or even two, plus flywheel (not shown here) of course

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Revolutionary SoundSome good high end gears never change, they are intrinsically ‘right’ from the word go and all it takes is a little tinkering as time goes by, employing a little new technology when it becomes relevant but the basic formula remains unchanged. Astute audiophiles will recognize The Gradient Revolution is one such gem; debuting some two decades ago, it is now in Mk IV version but the concept and execution of this loudspeaker have remained true to its original design.

Mention Gradient and perhaps the Revolution loudspeaker is not the first thing that comes to mind. One of Gradient’s claims to fame is their ipole subwoofer designed to match the iconic Quad ESL63. The subwoofer is still available for those who seek a subwoofer system that matches the dipole dispersion pattern of an open panel type loudspeaker (eg Magneplanars) for that extra degree of low-end oomph. The Revolution loudspeaker adopts as well a dipole woofer system and to complete the speaker system, a “ coaxial cardiod” driver is perched on top of the woofer. This compact satellite handles the range from 200 Hz and up, and the cardiod radiation pattern cleverly steers the sound forward and away from the rear and side walls, thus minimising early reflections. The crossover is offered in both passive as well as active. More of this later.

The Revolution utilizes an unusual shape for the ‘cabinet’ – it has three sides. The Revolution precedes another three sider – the Tannoy’s ‘Sixes’ series some years back so they can still lay claim to being the original! To achieve a bipolar arrangement, the dual 12-inch woofers are mounted on an open baffle, allowing the front and rear wave to vent readily. So the cabinet is not really what it seems, the cloth grille stretches over a frame and over the speaker baffle where the woofers are mounted. As such, there are no speaker ports.

The Revolution has a unique ability – it allows the user to decide which direction the woofers fire for the most linear and extended bass response to suit the room! You can place the woofer towers firing (1) towards the listener in a typical isosceles triangle format, or (2) turned towards the inside and fire towards against the rear wall or (3) turned outwards and fire towards the side walls. Do bear in mind the placement has to take into account not just the ‘forward in-phase’ signal but the ‘rear wave – reverse phase’ signal. To do that there are occasions you may need to reverse the polarity of the speaker cables. Once the placement of the woofer is settled, the Satellite can then be placed on top of the woofer system and fire directly towards the listening area.

While this sounds a bit complicated, there are sound reasons for offering this degree of flexibility. For one, Gradient primary design objective is to ensure the speaker drives the room efficiently and avoiding exciting the room’s natural resonance. Typical speakers with forward, side firing or even rear

firing woofer systems are ‘locked’ in place, all you can do is to move the speaker a little closer or further from the walls to achieve the best balance of room gain vs. direct output from the drive units while at the same time trying to avoid triggering room resonant nodes. This is, at best, a compromise. You can never quite achieve absolute control of the sound output in a room. Now, that does not imply with the Revolution, the problem is solved by its design alone, it will still require expert installation from an experienced seller to achieve proper placement. After all, you are not just buying a pair of speakers but also the expertise of the persons installing the speaker for the best performance. Is this a better solution? That, is the question we should be asking.

Following the dipole arrangement, Gradient suggested a cardioid’s dispersion arrangement for the mid and high frequencies (above the woofer towers) would be a better match than a full dipole arrangement for the subwoofer, midrange and high frequencies. Again based on the concept of driving the room efficiently, the satellites (they aren’t actually satellites – 7 inch midrange with ¾ inch aluminium dome coaxial hardly qualifies as ‘satellites’, more like a mini monitor) have a slight upward tilt, no doubt to reduce the amount of sound directed towards the floor – the nearest room boundary for any loudspeaker. The coaxial arrangement for the tweeter and midrange means the 7” midrange cone also acts like a wave-guide to direct the high frequency signal.

Active vs. PassiveThe Revolution is offered in two versions – passive or active. The passive version would be very much like your ordinary loudspeaker and comes with a two-part crossover meaning it allows the speaker to be bi-amped.

The active version comes in two versions – the HE electronic crossover which allows the use of external power amps to drive the bass and mid/tweeter or the XOA (a single box crossover-plus-amplifier), which includes four channels of amplification (180 watts per channel) to drive the woofers and mid/tweeters in one box. For some reason, Gradient chose to equip the crossover/amplifier with balanced XLRs only; you will need a preamp with balanced output. The HE electronic crossover only version offers both RCA and Balance inputs. On the electronic crossover, there is woofer level and 3-position toggle switch for Q adjustment.

The XOA version seems to offer the best value – full active operation complete with 4-channels of power amplification. At S$13,900, this version only cost some S$4000 more than the full passive version. Now S$4000 isn't going to buy you much of a four-channel

amplifier of quality. Unless you really want to use some specific amplifier, eg a tube amplifier to drive the mid/tweeter, I strongly suggest you start with the XOA version. Or you order the version with HE crossover only, and use your existing amplifiers. Whichever way you want it, Gradient has a solution!

How it soundsListening to the Gradient Revolution brings back memories how speakers used to sound - tonally balanced compared to many of today’s tonally brighter sounding loudspeakers. No doubt, a brighter and more forward sound is undeniably attractive - some would liken this to ‘more details’ - but all too often sounds tiring after a short acquaintance. No doubt, it is easy for a brighter sounding speaker to impress an inexperience listener in the showroom, just like brighter LCD TVs look more impressive compared to less bright Plasma TVs. That is, until, you bring it home and realize even when the ‘Brightness’ setting is brought all the way down to the minimum, it is still too bright to view for any appreciable length of time.

So is the Gradient Revolution. I have no complains about its tonal balance – it is perfect. I do not have any measuring tools to be sure that there is no significant boost or dips in the in-room frequency response but to my ears, it sounds well, perfect. What struck me is the sense of openness, not just in the midrange or high frequencies but the entire bandwidth. The Revolution is as ‘unboxy’ as open panel loudspeakers but with greater impact and weightier bass than any panel speaker I can remember (perhaps the Apogee comes closest). I have no doubt the dual 12-inch woofers from each speaker deliver an appreciable amount of bass extension as well despite the lack of a loading enclosure.

The midband and high frequency may seem a tad muted at first, then upon longer exposure, I start to realize the unforced nature of the beast. If you like a bright sound for whatever the reason may be (damaged hearing from using earbuds?), the Revolution may not be the speaker for you. If you treasure a smooth and seamless experience, the Revolution may have something to offer. Putting the Revolution in perspective, it strikes me as a loudspeaker that fits into a special niche – one that straddles between a bright and exaggerated sound and a balance that favours less than stellar recordings. In other words, the Revolution is a loudspeaker to enjoy music, without audiophile pretensions of any sort. Isn’t that a good thing?

For more information on Gradient Loudspeakers please contact Raindrop Audio Pte Ltd

Gradient Revolution loudspeaker

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Sperling Audio Heavyweight Class

L1 turntable and M2 motor housing

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Ansgar Sperling, the founder of Sperling Audio started off as a hobby, improving other existing turntables – Micro Seiki, Platine Verdier, various Thorens, and the Linn LP12 of course since 2004 on the motor housings. He even makes motor housings for turntable DIYers in Germany. After working on all the different turntables, he came to realize the strengths and weaknesses of different turntable designs. So from aftermarket upgrade perspective, he set out to develop his own turntable – the result is the L1, the one and only product till date from Sperling.

The L1 was launched at the Analogue Show in Germany in 2011. Now the turntable is making its presence felt in Asia – first at the Kuala Lumpur Audio Video Show and then MOD DAC 2012 in August. I was at the KL show when I met Mr Ansgar Sperling and his partner Michael Bonninghoff.

Michael: The last 8 years working on different turntable designs to see how they can be improved upon. More than often, much can be done on an after market level. Each type of turntable design has a unique solution. We have to find different suppli-ers to manufacture and machine the parts for each turntable. On hindsight, it lays the foundation for us to make our own turntable. For our own use, we were not able to accept the compromises each turntable manufacturer chooses, so we end up having to make our own. We did that and when some of our audiophile friends heard it, they wanted us to make one for them as well. That is the beginning of Sperling Audio.

Finding the best supplier ends up in very unique places, like Carl Zeiss Jena (camera lens factory) who made parts of the

motor and pulley for the L-1. They use a temperature-controlled process that no other supplier can provide. Maxon supplies the Swiss made motor, and this is also used in the Platine Verdier.

One of the unique features of the L-1 is the ability to fine-tune the sound to your personal preference. We use a layered construction – aluminum-wood-aluminum. You can substitute the wood with acrylic and it will subtlely change the character of the sound. Also the platter can be had either in wood or acrylic inserts and it does the same thing – allowing the user to modify the turntable to his or her preference.

The bearing is a massive affair, a 40mm bearing shaft! The bearing rest on a hardened ball made from Silicate Nitrate, it is harder than any steel ball bearing, I assure you. The bearing rest on a thrust plate hardened to 6 Rockwell hardness. The bearing sits over one of the cone feet, making a direct mechanical grounding for the turntable bearing.

MOD AV: The belt looks like some kind of tape…

Michael: For good control of the rotating platter, we found the belt and belt tension have a very big impact on the sound quality. For that reason, we chose a non-elastic belt made from clear ‘tape’, the tape used as lead in, lead out for open reel magnetic tapes? Same thing, used as a belt, there is no elasticity and in doing so enables us to use a user adjustable tensioner, you can make fine adjustments by

moving the motor closer or further from the platter to change the belt tension. This arrangement won’t work using an elastic rubber belt!

MOD AV: The arm mounting looks complicated with all the dials?

Michael: In fact we make it easier to use! The arm board can be used for arms from 9 to 12 inch and you can mount two arms. The design is patent pending and fast to setup. We supply the arm board pre drilled for the arm of your choice, you fit the arm in and turn the dials which then moves the arm geometrically till you reach the correct position. Once you have done that, you take note

of the settings. Next time when you change your arm back, you just set back to the noted settings and its ready to go.

MOD AV: Will there be a Sperling Tonearm to match with your turntable?

Michael: We are working on one but it is too early to tell if we are able to finalise on the design at this moment.

Above: Michael Bonninghoff

Right: Ansgar Sperling

Below: At the recent KL AV show

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Focal Super Bird 2.1Focal’s growing range of ‘crossover’ products are intended to bridge the expectations of music lovers whose source is primarily a portable audio device such as an iPod, iPhone or an iPad to that of real performance loudspeaker systems. The Bird series comes in three flavours – Little Bird, Bird and Super Bird, embodies aesthetic design as well as real acoustical properties. Each of the speakers in the Bird series is designed as standalone speakers that form an upgrade from those cheap and nasty multimedia ‘speakers’. While they offer a full bandwidth, its performance can be improved with the addition of the ‘Power Bird’, an active subwoofer system together with a two channel amplifier to drive any of the Bird series, making a complete stand alone solution.

As such, the Super Bird 2.1 system comprises a pair of Super Bird speakers and the attendant Power Bird subwoofer/amplifier system. The Super Bird houses the Bird’s aluminium dome tweeter, a 5 ½ inch midrange driver with an additional 5 ½ inch passive radiator into an attractive svelte slim line oval shaped speaker. Unlike the Bird, the Super Bird is much shallower at just 5 inches deep, making it an attractive wall mount option; it looks more discrete than the chunkier Bird, which sticks out twice as much with the three-legged stand! The wall mount for the Super Bird is supplied standard but there isn’t any tabletop mounting option; unlike the three-legged stand supplied with the Bird and Little Bird. You can buy an optional floor stand for the Super Bird though. Clearly, Focal envisage the bulk of the customers buying the Super Bird will be wall mounting the speaker.

The Power Bird houses all the necessary connectivity to the outside world – it has 2 digital and 3 analogue inputs – for your CD player, cable set-top box, etc. If you use an Apple device like the iPad or iPhone, there is the optional wireless ‘Kleer’ transmitter, which you plug into the Apple 30-pin docking connector of your Apple device, which then sends a digital data stream wirelessly to the Power Bird. Obviously Focal feels the ‘Kleer’ wifi solution is preferred to Bluetooth A2DP. The Power Bird doesn’t look like a typical subwoofer, more like a typical amplifier. It uses a down firing 6½ inch subwoofer with its attendant 80 watt amplifier. It has another two channels of amplification of 2 x 35 watts to drive the Bird or Super Bird. There is even a wall mounting option for the Power Bird if the entire system needs to be wall mounted.

What separate the Bird from the Super Bird are the additional passive radiator and possibly the slightly larger internal volume of the enclosure. As such, the Super Bird wrings a couple of more hertz in the low frequency department. Focal claims the Bird alone goes down to 70 Hz (-3 dB) while the Super Bird goes down to 55 Hz (-3 dB). What’s the big deal you might say, especially if you would be buying the Power Bird subwoofer to go with either pair? In my opinion, plenty.

The extra extension allows a more gradual crossover slope at the low frequency to the subwoofer. Though Focal never mentioned the crossover point for the three different size speakers, the Power Bird has a rear toggle switch to choose between Little Bird, Bird and Super Bird. The reason is simple – each speaker is mated differently to the subwoofer to achieve the most seamless crossover possible. I suspect with the Little Bird and Bird, the crossover employs a much steeper slope to maintain linearity for the main

speakers.

So how does that benefit the Super Bird? I would expect a smoother and less abrupt transition from the main speaker to the powered subwoofer. It should be able to play louder and more effortlessly. I wasn’t disappointed when I lay ears on the Bird vs Super Bird comparison. The Super Bird wins hands down for delivering a level of musicality the smaller Bird just couldn’t aspire to. It wasn’t the Bird was severely lacking; it just lacks the effortlessness and energy of the Super Bird.

I audition the Super Bird wall mounted. They certainly look good! And don’t sound too bad either! Obviously wall mounting will, to an extent, limit depth perception as opposed to a stand mounted, away from walls option. However, what clinches the deal was the very musical experience without a hint of boxiness. The Power Bird integrates pretty well without being ‘obvious’, something sats/sub users will always experience. There is of course more apparent mid bass than any real bass extension, which is only to be expected unless you are using full sized loudspeakers.

While it is debatable if 2.1 systems will gradually replace conventional speakers, there are possibly more music lovers than audiophiles. Focal foray into the Bird series, amongst their other multimedia offerings, does indeed serve as an important ‘bridge’ – branding Focal as a high quality and high performance loudspeaker manufacturer. In that, the Bird series is a strong testament to Focal design capabilities – from small compact 2.1 systems to the mighty Utopia series.

The Super Bird looks right at home when wall mounted

Here’s the 6-inch woofer mounted below the Power Bird looks like

Focal products are distributed by Ong Radio

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MOVERIOMovies on the Move?

So what can Moverio do?

Looking like a pair of oversized 3D glasses, the frame holds a miniature projector on each side, which then projects onto a screen in front of your eyes. Having two projectors mean the Moverio starts off being 3D ready. You put them on as per 3D glasses and the first impression is it has some weight; you will be aware of it after a few minutes. The Moverio caters for eyeglass wearers like myself with a pair of clip on supports that rest it over your regular glasses. Then you have to choose from a pack of 3 nose bridge supports depending on how high your nose is.

In use, surprisingly you don't need to focus your eyes on the screen, in fact you look into the distance, in doing so relax your eye muscles. Viewing the Moverio should not be eyestrain. The screen brightness is adjustable to comfort level depending on the ambient lighting. For outdoor use, there is a clip on shade that makes you look really menacing when walking around. It also cuts down on the ambient light yet allow one to see through the glasses to see what is happening around you. In the night you can unclip the shade. The ear buds are individual units with a mini plug that plugs into receptacles on either sides of the Moverio.

The Moverio runs on an earlier version of Android 2.2 (Froyo), comes with a 1 GB Ram and a microSD card slot to store your videos. The Moverio limits the capacity of the microSD to 32Gb that should hold enough to keep you occupied for hours! Video formats playable is limited to MPEG4 and H.264 though I was told you can download other music players,

such as Real Player for Android.

You control the unit through a small wired handheld iPod sized device. It has a touchpad just like those used in a laptop and control buttons. This is the unit where you slip in your microSD card for the stored audio and video files, the power supply to keep the unit powered and all the general controls. The power is charged by USB and carries a charge that last a good 4 – 5 hours. The whole package comes with a carry case which encourages you to bring along with your next holiday.

In use, just to play a couple of videos, the Moverio works fine. I loaded full HD 1080p YouTube videos onto a micro SD card and the quarter HD display works smoothly. The sound quality is acceptable but not state of the art. You can of course substitute with your favourite ear buds into the controller and unplug the supplied ear buds. Having a big device over your head means full sized cans are not in the equation.

When it comes to surfing the net, the Moverio is not really in its element. Typing on the onscreen keyboard by moving the cursor using the touchpad is painfully slow. I might just do that once and then add to favourites. This is not one device I would be using to surf the net though one of the reasons I would spend any appreciable time on the internet is because of YouTube. If surfing the net on a device such as the Epson Moverio is your thing, you may have to wait for Google to see what ‘hands-free’ option offers with their version. Who knows how long the wait may be? For now, the Moverio works just fine as an entertainment device.

Audio Video entertainment used to be something we can enjoy in the confines of our home, however the likes of portable devices like MP3 players and smart phones are taking our audio video entertainment on the road – there is no place we cannot enjoy music and movies. Today, it is not unusual to see train commuters catching up on their favourite TV serials on a smart phone or a tablet computer in a less than 30-minute ride.

With this in mind, the possible next generation of portable audio video device would have to be some form of wearable glasses that have a LCD screen with 3D capability. Google has her prototype wearable computer glasses showcase in June this year. The device, known as Project Glass, provides a way to search for information, read text messages, watch online video, post photos on social networks and probably a host of other

functions we cannot yet imagine, all can be done without having to fumble around with a hand-held device. I thought that was cool, and developers at the Google event is offered and opportunity to get their hands on one, as long as they are willing to foot out USD1500 and having to wait till next year before they get their pair to play with.

Epson sneaked up and presented an alternative, the Moverio. OK, maybe Epson’s goals aren’t as lofty as Google’s. The Moverio BT100 is presented as a see through movie viewer. Yes, it has a host of useful features that might be attractive but it must be said on the onset, its functionality is biased towards entertainment more than an internet experience. Perhaps the simplified goals of the Moverio enable Epson to have the product now, not next year. And it is at a more affordable S$999.

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Audio Engineering Research or AER in short is a technology firm from Hong Kong that has created a series of products based on technology rather than snake oil as many hifi compa-nies are fond of doing. AER is a division of IPC, an organisation committed to making the world a little better through their Technology, many of which is industry and health sciences related. That means what they do probably have some scientific basis even if it is a little too much for the average audiophile to grasp!

One of their proprietary technologies is what they call Euphoria Technology™. It works on the molecular level and goes like this – all elements are essentially based on atoms. The basic elements in an atom are protons (the +ve charge) and neutrons (no charge) in its core, surrounded by electrons (-ve charge). We all know about splitting of the atom, so no dispute about this. Now atoms possess energy and are always in a state of vibration but in a random pattern. What Euphoria Technology™ does is to generate a ‘Proton Vibration Alignment Field’ or simply a PVA Field. This alignment process is temporary but it has the effect micro-phase alignment to direct the sound transmission in a more efficient way. What AER claims is Euphoria Technology™ makes our hifi sounds better. Under-standing how and why their products work is best left to the

people who wears a white coat for a living, for the rest of us, we can enjoy the fruits of their labour!

‘Euphoria Technology™ is based on quantum mechanics operating on the scale of picometers, i.e., picotechnology. Picotechnology refers to the manipulation of matter on the scale of trillionths of a meter (10-12 m), and is much more advanced than traditional nanotechnology.’

Mr Vain, the founder of the company, is first and foremost, an Audiophile himself, so he established a subsidiary, AER, to produce a range of products that make use of Euphoria Technology™ specifically for audio. I guess we cannot argue with an atomic physicist when it comes down to nuts and bolts or the creation of the universe! Here we look at two of their products the LP Energizer and Disc Energizer.

LP EnergizerLooking like a display stand for some valuable ornament, the thick cut acrylic block on a glossy black plinth measuring 350 x 350mm. No, it does not turn or move in any way. You place the LP onto the acrylic disc over a spindle, press a button and the LP is treated with a blueish light for 6 seconds - the PVA Field. It will last for 120 minutes. Then

the LP is placed on your turntable, and with that, the entire signal path and equipment in the AV system within 1 meter of the record player will be influenced by the PVA Field. This means all the equipment will perform better, not just the record player.

‘In addition, the motions of atmospheric content – mainly air molecules – will also be aligned. Once the micro-phase alignment has taken place, the signal loss in the equipment and the sound transmission loss in air will be minimized. The result will be an audio experience like never before heard.’ Awesome stuff!

The LP Energizer draws very little power so is powered by two AA batteries.

Does it work? Yes, it certainly does. It does change the sound. Before I go on, let’s get this straight, ‘treating’ an LP is not the equivalent of a cartridge upgrade, it cannot resolve information your cartridge isn’t able to pick up. The difference is subtle but noticeable – a greater sense of presence, I start to notice details that were masked to an extent by a slight haze before, started emerging as the haze disappears. Now this might sound a bit like selling snake oil but you have to hear it to believe it. What the LP Energizer helps is to bring out the best your turntable based system could do, no more, no less. At $4000, this is not cheap but along with a good record cleaner, is probably your turntable based system best friend!

Disc EnergizerWhat if yours is a CD based system? AER offers the Disc Energizer – the equivalent to the LP Energizer but a lot more affordable. Like the LP Energizer, 6 seconds is all you need to ‘align’ the protons. The added advantage is it works for not just the CD, but your DVD and Blu-rays discs.

‘The Disc Energizer upgrades the audio performance of your CD and the audio-visual performance of your DVD. The upgrade takes as little as 5 seconds, yet the effect lasts for 120 minutes.

For audio CDs and DVDs, the intelligibility is signicantly increased, rendering greater stereo width, more realistic

vocals and finer dynamic details. The difference it makes to audio performance encompasses all ranges: midrange is enriched, bass deepened and treble extended. The listener’s audible perception becomes exceptionally precise and three-dimensional.

As for DVDs, the enhancements to motion pictures are also brilliant! Graphics are visibly more vivid, solid and 3D-like depth; the details in images are notably sharper and the texture therein become more realistic. Even the Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD performances can be upgraded using this unparal-leled processing. All these enhancements are made possible only through the implemtation of IPC’s proprietary Euphoria Technology™.’

‘For CDs, the Disc Energizer enhances audio intelligibility, the details and stereo sound imaging, while on your Home Theatre System, it enhances the details and sense of dimension of motion pictures, as well as color contrast and sharpness of graphics’.

AER products are now available at Modular Audio.

AER LP EnergizerAER Disc Energizer

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Audio Pro LV2e Luxury comes to a Desktop Speaker System

Audio Pro hails from Sweden and has been making loudspeak-ers since 1978, has seen much changes in consumer buying behaviour - from hifi speakers to desktop speaker systems with built-in amplifier and wireless capability. Thanks to Sound Decisions, once again Audio Pro is now available for music enthusiasts in Singapore.

One of the more attractive wireless speakers in the Audio Pro range must be the LV2e, available in an attractive black, white or red leather wrapped finish plus for those who want something a little extraordinary, there is even a special ‘cognac’ leather finish in the form of 'LV2e Limited' of which only 200 pairs will be made (order yours now!).

The LV2e comes with built-in amplifiers - 2 x 25 watts per speaker with 24 Bit Burr Brown DAC with advanced Sonix digital sound processors, which use superior noise reduction and sophisticated error correction algorithms for best possible sound reproduction and extremely high efficiency. Also comes built-in is the wireless receiver and a wireless USB transmitter to attach to

your audio sources, there is no need to 'pair' the LV2e with the transmitter. Wireless transmission is uncompressed at full CD quality and with a built-in security filter that removes RF interference from other wireless networks.

It is possible to connect to any sound source - directly to your computer’s USB port or to your stereo, iPod, iPhone and iPad and their supporting docks via 3.5 mm stereo cable. The LV2e supports Apple AirPlay and with Audio Pro Wireless you can stream iTunes playlists and songs from your Mac, iPad and iPhone wirelessly to the LV2e. Just connect the transmitter to an Airport Express and select your Airport Express unit as sound device on your iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch. The LV2e is also multi-room capable.

Splashtop remote app: mirrors your computer on the iPad. With Splashtop Remote you can access everything on your computer via your iPad: watch videos, work in Word or listen to your music. Splashtop works brilliantly with Audio Pro Wireless to make your iPad a great remote for your music. Just connect the transmitter to the computer you mirror with Splashtop and access your music wirelessly – as well as everything else on your computer. The Splashtop Remote is available at the App store.

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Projection screens can be divided into two distinct varieties – fixed screens where the entire screen is always stretched on the wall and retractable screens which can be rolled up when not in use. Depending on your installation, you would most likely choose one or the other.

Retractable screens are useful when the environment can be dusty so when it is not in used, the screen is safely stored within the screen housing, protected from dust and other pollutants. However retractable screens are subjected to ‘wrinkles’ - the rolling and unrolling of the screen can, over time, cause the screen to wrinkle around the side edges. Prolonged use of the screen after several years will also lead to the screen material or backing to sag, causing vertical wrinkles across the entire screen surface. This applies equally to both manual pull down and motorized screens. Fixed screens do not suffer from this problem as the screen is continuously tensioned over the entire surface at all times.

To maintain screen flatness for its current range of Manual (SMP series) and Electric screens (SEP series), OS incorporated tension adjustment

mechanism together with bigger roller, improved linearity of the screen fabric.

Taking in advance the trend on H.T projectors from Full HD to 8K x 4K, the tab-tension screen which realizes the ideal linearity and high definition images lead to the recent introduction of ‘STP’ tab-tension Electric Screen. The tab tension system uses a special design tension mechanism to stretch both the vertical as well as horizontal planes of the screen to straighten out wrinkles and to protect the curls at both side of the screen with tension kept constant. The ‘tabs’ attached to the edge of the screen contain glass fibers to minimize elasticity to ensure a uniform tension across the entire screen. To further reduce the possibility of wrinkles on the screen, the STP series uses a larger roller from 26% to 32% to minimize the bending of the screen and further equipped with tension adjustment mechanism at the end of the weight bar to prevent fine vertical wrinkles.

The STP series is available from 100” – 150” in 16:9 aspect ratio with choice of Pure Mat II EX (WF-203) and Acoustic Transparent Sound Mat (WS-102) fabric.

OS introduces - Tab Tension Screen ( STP Series )

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Tesla is the measurement of a unit of magnetic induction or magnetic flux density in the metre-kilogram-second system (SI) of physical units. According to Beyer Dynamic, the name Tesla is reserved for their premium range of product employing the technology – “a very powerful magnetic drive and clean reproduction with a low degree of total harmonic distortion.”

The previous Tesla models are the high end T1 and T5 were highly regarded for its sound quality. Now a trio of mid priced models – the T90 (open back), T70 (closed back) and T50 p (closed back on ear compact portable) were released with Tesla technology but at more affordable prices – straddling between the entry DT990 and DT880 to the T1 and T5. The review model is the middle of the three model range – the T70 in a 32 ohm version called the T70 p. The ‘p’ means it has lower impedance making it easy to drive using small amplifiers in portable devices like the iPhone and iPod. The standard version uses a 250 ohm voice coil for use either with amplifiers that have better drive capability or using a headphone amp proper. Both the 32 ohm and 250 ohm are priced identical at $799.

The review set is T70 p - a closed back headphone with its large sized ear cups are very comfortable when worn given its plush velour covering on the foam pads. Even the headband is given the plush velour treatment. Beyer really want you to feel this new T series derived some of the luxurious touch offered by the more expensive T1 and T5. The headphones come in a nice storage case, cloth bag, ¼ inch adaptor and standard supply of a 3.5mm mini jack.

I tried the T70 p through an iPod with and without a headphone amplifier and while there is some difference in sound, both ‘direct drive’ and through a headphone are equally competent. I suppose the difference in sound can be attributed to the added sonic character of the headphone amp than it touted ability to do a better job driving the T70 p. Yes, the 32 ohm voice coil does live up to its claim – you should have no problem driving them well with your iPhone or similar.

So what does the T70 p sound like? First impression is vivid and snappy sound, not bright and harsh, mind you. There seems to be some ‘lift’ in the presence region – 5 to 7 kHz that makes certain sounds a little exaggerated but in a nice, not too offensive way. Listening to smooth voices like Norah Jones on the T70 p and you will know what I mean.

The sound seems relatively closed in; it lacks the spatial characteristics of better (read: more expensive) headphones like the Alessandro Music Series. In a sense its perspective of music is somewhat less dimensional, a little less realistic. I

suppose listeners who listen more to popular and rock music where the sheer exuberance of the T 70 p would be preferred to something a little more neutral like the Alessan-dro. There were some suggestions that this headphone would be good for gamers for its bass impact. Hey, you pay your money and you pick your choice.

The T70 p misses the boat in terms of absolute neutrality, then again, so what if it doesn’t? There are many transduc-ers (speakers and headphones) that are coloured sounding yet there are admirers of its other attributes. I think that is the whole point, it is always recommended that you audition before you buy anything and maybe you might just find the T 70 p preferable to the more expensive Alessandros because it matches - 1) your hearing, which obviously differs from mine, 2) the sort of music you listen to and 3) your source component. The strengths of the T70 p is the undeniably vivid and forward character, which can be, for some listeners, considered a virtue. Happy listening.

Beyer Dynamic T70p GoVibe VestAmp+ headphone amplifier

USB headphone amplifier now can be counted as a ‘must have’ for fans of headphones. Why allow the vagaries of indifferent amplifier manufacturers to influence how your headphones perform? Add ‘self powered portable’ into the equation and there you have the ideal combination of high performance headphones and dedicated performance amplifier with added mobility.

In Issue 15 we looked at the impressive GoVibe’s Porta Tube+ which sports a vacuum tube amplification stage. The VestAmp+ returns to solid state and hence is even more compact – about the size of a credit card, slimmer at 14mm

thick and cheaper at half the price of the Porta Tube+. Finished in brushed aluminium and anodised in black, it is an attractive package. The only digital input offered is a mini USB with a 3.5mm analogue input. The headphone socket is also 3.5mm, there is no quarter inch jack as offered by the Porta Tube+. The volume control knob is nicely tucked into a corner so there are hardly any protruded parts. The volume knob also function as the ‘off’ switch. There is an ‘on/off’ switch to allow the device to charge or stop charging whenever plugged into a USB input.

The VestAmp+ comes in a small white box with just a sticker label – inside is the VestAmp+ in a foam packaging bag, a USB to mini USB cable and that’s it! There are no instruc-tions of any kind, or information leaflet whatsoever. I have a wish list, how about a small cloth/suede carry pouch? And how much would that add to the $499 asking price? The famous Wolfson DACs are found here, two of them in fact. It upsamples 24bit/96 kHz to 24bit/192 kHz and the DAC is asynchronous.

I tested the VestAmp+ with my personal ACS custom in-ear and the Shure SRH1440 that happens to be a review set in this very issue. The Shure is a low impedance headphone and honestly does not really need the extra drive from a headphone amplifier but it would be nice to bypass my computer’s headphone outlet using the digital data stream.

On the ACS, the VestAmp+ sounded rich in detail and very quiet. Voices sound absolutely superb, in fact I never heard my ACS sounded this good before. The bass end is full bodied and extended, with excellent separation. With the SRH1440, the balance is more biased towards ‘exagerated presence’, a forwardness in presentation that unfortunately leads to an occasional edge to voices which can be a bit of an earful when listening to the likes of Sarah Brightman. However using the SRH1440 sans any headphone amp, direct to my PC headphone output yields a similar result. I can safely say the VestAmp+ does not contribute the aforementioned sonic character – the SRH1440 character is overtly forward sounding in the midrange at the expense of the bass balance. The VestAmp+ is transparent enough not to intrude.

If my memory serve me well, the Porta Tube+ excels in the midrange, offers a more dimensional and natural midrange than the VestAmp+ which is tonally a little less liquid if they are compared side by side. The VestAmp+ is less forgiving if a little less musical than the Porta Tube+. All being said, the VestAmp+ offers solid performance for around half the price of the Porta Tube+. Not bad.

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Shure SRH1440 & SRH1840 open back headphones

In case you are new to headphones, full sized headphones are either open back or closed back. On open back headphones, the rear of the driver is allowed to vent sounds out of the headphone cup. This is analogous to open baffle loudspeakers, you get a sound that is more open sounding and less closed in. The downside is it also allows external noise to bleed into the sound. Closed back headphones restrict the sound from bleeding out of the headphones and depending on the damping used behind the ear cup, it can have a strong effect on the sound quality. Closed back headphones generally have better bass since most of the bass energy is not leaked out of the headphone cup.

The pair of Shure open back headphones – the SRH1440 and SRH1840 are two new models offered in the premium range in the Shure lineup. They are still relatively affordable - $599 and $999 respectively. Both use identical 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets but that's as far as similarity begin and end. The construction of the entire driver differs and the SRH1840 uses matched drive units. The SRH1440 is rated at 37 ohms vs the SRH1840 65 ohms, the result is a slightly lower efficiency for the latter. Clearly the SRH1440 is aimed at users of portable audio devices like an iPod. However neither the SRH1440 or SRH1840 are truly portable – they are bulky, they don't fold flat and you look kinda silly walking around with them. They are more likely to be used at home.

The headphones come in its own protective semi-hard case. Both headphones use independent detachable entry cable. The contact pins feel reliable enough for extended use, the connector has an assuring ‘click’ when properly attached. At the other end of the cable is a 3.5mm jack with a ¼ inch adapter. The headphones are extremely well made if a little unassuming, you would never want to ‘show off’ your Shure cans.

Comfort is a strong point for the Shures, no doubt about it, the soft padding and plush velour covers feel nice. They cup over the ears and rest gently on the sides of the head. The pressure is not too excessive and I have them on for quite a while before I am tempted to take them off (getting warm).

SRH1440The SRH1440 sounds bright and preppy, refined and detailed, with some emphasis on the presence region. This takes a slight toll on the linearity vis a vis the bass and high frequencies. The

highs though smooth, sounds a little suppressed.

At the bass end the energy levels take a perceptible dip in relation to the upper midrange. It would suggest the SRH1440 steers away from neutrality because of the forward sounding upper midrange around the 3 – 6 kHz range. Certain female voices on bright recordings take on an uncharacteristic edge that can be a little uncomfortable to my ears.

As expected the SRH1440 is an easier load than the

SRH1840, it plays louder. As such you can do away with the need to invest on a headphone amplifier though for ultimate sound quality, a good USB headphone amp will still be a good investment. Overall the SRH1440 offers a good comfortable fit with fair sound quality.

SRH1840There is a lot of constructional difference between the two though both use identical speaker diaphragms. The comfort level is superior on the SRH1840 despite using identical ear cups, perhaps the headband have something to do with it.

The SRH1840 weighs a little less too, with a more ‘pro’ looking built.

If the SRH1440 steers away from neutrality, the SRH1840 is spot on neutral. There is no emphasis of any part of the frequency bandwidth. The SRH1840 simply oozes with sophisti-cation and class! The bass end is rich and deep, with a great sense of power and depth, not the ‘one note’ bass found on the likes of Beats. For an open back headphone, the SRH1840 has excellent bass performance.

The SRH1840 is one nice headphone to saviour classical music, you hear little details that did not catch your attention before, little things that make music satisfying to listen to. Instruments were nicely spaced out and there is a reasonable semblance of a layered soundstage though very much still an ‘in-your-head’ experience.

Voices and ‘hard’ sounding instrument like brass and sax were very relaxing to listen to, if anything, tend towards a mellowed and refined variety. There is simply none of the edgier elements that get in the way. The SRH1840 is kind on harsh recordings, you probably could get away listening to compressed MP3 tracks. In all the SRH1840 is an enjoyable experience.

Conclusion While it may be assumed the SRH1440 and SRH1840 shares similar parentage, they should sound similar, nothing is further from the truth. They are as different as night and day. While it may be argued that the SRH1440 is tweaked for those who have a penchant for a brighter sound. Sounding bassier or sounding brighter do not make for a better pair of head phones or any other transducer for that matter. It may, however, compensate by lifting the presence region above the background noise, which would intrude into an open back head phone. Still, the SRH1440 avoids a harsh sound character which I think Shure pulls off a nice balancing act here.

The SRH1840 however, is a leading class act. The bass end sounds open and extended, over which the midrange layers sound over it. The high frequencies are sweet and extended, very natural, very accurate sound. The SRH1840 deserves a strong recommended rating.

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