AcousticArtsから、モノラルパワーアンプ「 Mono II 」登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

AcousticArts MONO II

Gato Audioから、新製品続々登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

FM-8　new top of the range speaker
DIA-250　 Class-D Integrated Amplifiers  with 24bit/192kHz D/A Converter
DIA-400　Class-D Integrated Amplifiers  with 24bit/192kHz D/A Converter
PRD-3　Preamplifier with 24bit/192kHz D/A Converter

AcousticArtsから、「 UNCOMPRESSED WORLD VOL. 4 audiophile solo piano 」登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

UNCOMPRESSED WORLD VOL. 4

A complete compilation dedicated to a single instrument? Would that work? These were our initial thoughts at the beginning of 2012 as we started work on “Uncompressed World Vol. IV”.

And: which solo instrument should we even take? Well here we agreed quite quickly on the piano. The question of whether one can dedicate a complete compilation just to solo piano is yes, you can. In fact it works really well. This is because no two pianos are the same, whether Steinway, Grotrian-Steinweg, Bösendorfer, or Yamaha. Each manufacturer of pianos has its own philosophy. Further differences are the various interpretations of the players and the recording technology used by the recording engineer. In any case, experts describe the recording of a piano as the ultimate discipline in studio miking. The background here is that a grand piano has a very wide frequency range (with resonant frequencies of the strings in the range of 27.5 to 4200 Hz and with harmonic waves up to 12 kHz) and also a very wide dynamic range. Another decisive point is whether the instrument is situated alone in a large concert hall or fills the  space of a small recording studio. Where are the microphones positioned during the recording? Classical recordings in particular place the microphones a large distance away from the instrument. The resulting acoustic pattern is indirect, with a great deal of space present. Others place the microphones very close to the source where the sound is generated. The result is an intimate sound which includes all the ambient noise. The hammer and pedal are clearly audible.

And you might find it hard to believe, but canned piano music has found its way into our compilation. Sampled sound, played on a midi keyboard, and edited on a laptop. Our recommendation: before reading the booklet, first of all listen carefully to the CD, track by track. Try to find out which track was not played with a “real” piano. We wish you lots of fun during the search and even more fun with the audio journey through the Uncompressed World of the audiophile solo piano.

Bel Canto、「 Black 」製品詳細を公開。

海外ニュース速報 [World]

Bel Canto Black – C1 Controller

The C1 Controller is not quite what you expect it to be, given that the e.One series of DACs which can function as pre-amplifiers and have been marketed as such since their launch. Where the e.One series DACs are digital to analogue converters, the C1 is a digital to digital device, offering input selection of digital sources, and a digital output in AES/EBU or ST-Fiber format. Why, will become clearer shortly.

In essence, the C1 is an ultra low noise digital source controller featuring:

・Free running Ultra-Low Phase Noise Master Clock core: Less than 30 Femtoseconds RMS phase noise from 100 Hz to 1MHz: 30fS = 0.03 Picoseconds
・Asynchronous Interfaces for USB, UPNP Ethernet and Standard Digital inputs
・Custom Optimised, 64 bit Modular Audio Processor Core-DSD processing and Multiple FIR filters
・32 bit digital Volume Control
・Dual Ultra Low Phase Noise Clocks
・25fS Phase Noise from 100Hz-1MHz1.0G Operations Per Second Custom DSP core with
・Proprietary FIR Apodising filters for optimum time domain response
・DSD 64 DoP support

In total there are 8 digital inputs on offer:

・AES/EBU
・2 x SPDIF
・2 x ST Fiber
・TOSLINK (Optical)
・USB 2.0 Asynchronous Interface
・UPNP/DLNA Asynchronous Ethernet Network Player

In addition to the multitude of digital inputs, the C1 also offers a single analogue input for a legacy device such as a reel to reel tape recorder or cassette deck etc. The incoming signal is converted to 24bit/192kHz digital for output. This analogue input can also function as a home theatre bypass.

Control of the C1 can be performed via a top mounted encoder/switch control wheel, IR remote control or via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). The front display is comprised of 12 x large RED dot matrix display.

Weighing in at a hefty 20kg and with dimensions of 48cm x 11cm x 30cm, this is Bel Canto’s first full sized component in many years. Now, all of this is great, but what do you connect the C1 to?

Bel Canto Black – MPD1 Mono Power DAC

As you can see from the product name, with the MPD1, Bel Canto have moved the digital to analogue conversion away from the source selection, and used the ‘shortest path to analogue’ principle of conversion and put the converter right inside the box with the power amp.

The asynchronous interfaces of the MPD1 accept either AES/EBU or ST-Fiber connections, perfectly matching the C1’s outputs naturally. Once again Bel Canto’s ultra low phase noise clocks are in use. We only have a few specifications of the DAC, and what we do know is that it offers over 127db of dynamic range with distortion less than 0.001%.

・Switch selectable St Fiber or AES Digital Input
・Channel A(L)/B(R) select switch
・BLE Control Interface
・Ultra-Low Phase Noise Master Oscillator
・25fS Phase Jitter from 100Hz-1MHz
・Parallel/Mono DAC architecture
・Custom Discrete Low Noise-High Speed I/V and output amplifiers/250mA drive
・Zero TC Ultra High Precision Caddock Blade resistors
・15dB Gain

With the e.One series of amplifiers, Bel Canto used the B&O ICEPower Class D modules as their base, with the Black series they have moved away from the B&O modules and now using custom nCore modules with 1200 watts of power per channel into 2 ohms. That last spec is important, because for the first time you can use Bel Canto power amplifiers with speakers that dip below 3 ohms, something the B&O modules do not like to do!

・Ultra-low noise and distortion
・THD+Noise: 0.0006% typical
・128 dB Dynamic Range
・30uVrms output noise
・All Discrete Circuitry
・12dB gain
・Dual WBT Nextgen Output Terminals
・High Current Power Delivery
・300 watts 8 ohms, 600 watts 4 ohms, 1200 watts 2 ohms
・>40A peak current
・Weight: 27kg

The Black series is a completely new approach to digital audio and as we said earlier is a cost no object product line, and as such, if you have to ask, you can not afford it! Pricing has yet to be set in concrete, but from what we have been told, expect it to cost in the vicinity of a fully spec’d Mercedes A250 for the complete setup!

Orpheusから、「 Heritage sacd 」登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

CHORDから、Choralシリーズのネットワークプレーヤー「 Codex 」登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

Codex
・UPnP streamer for Choral range
・With all the functionality of the DSX1000

Constellation Audioから、「 Hercules II mono power amplifier 」 登場！！！デザインを大幅に変更へ

海外ニュース速報 [World]

Constellation Audio
Hercules II mono power amplifier：　$150,000/pr
Hercules II stereo power amplifier：　$75,000

今夏登場予定

bel cantoから、３筐体の超ハイエンドUSB DAC「 Black 」登場！！！＜注目です！＞

海外ニュース速報 [World]

bel canto Black USB DAC （$60,000）

 

Avantgarde Acousticsから、「 Zero1 」登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

More integrated, compact and simple, and yet a veritable horn loudspeaker—to the very last decibel. The ZERO 1 is a dream come true—one that we have shared with many friends of our horn loudspeaker factory for over twenty years. After all, as fascinated, moved and amazed we may be by our larger acoustic transducers, we have always longed for a more compact horn loudspeaker to make the incomparable experience of Avantgarde Acoustic accessible to a wider audience of audio enthusiasts.

The ZERO 1 opens up this new road with a revolutionary size, simplified shape, hassle-free setup and fully integrated processor and amplifier technology.

Size and Design
Despite its clear, simplified shape and compact size, the ZERO 1 is brim-full of self confidence as it seamlessly integrated into its owner’s living environment. Moreover, its recessed spherical wave horn is a shining example of functional beauty.

Maximum Integration
Digital processors, analogue-to-digital converters, power amplifiers and loudspeakers—all in a fully integrated system. And more importantly: all of a level of high-end quality hitherto unseen in this category.

Plug & Play Installation
The loudspeakers communicate with each other via a radio link. They only need to be hooked up to the mains with the digital input of the master loudspeaker connected to the music signal (e.g. via AirPort Express*).  That’s it.

The basics up front: A full-fledged horn system, the ZERO 1 has all of the tonal advantages provided by horn technology—the most original and natural acoustic transducer principle. Each of the two horns is driven by a 50-watt power amplifier. Without delay or distortion, sound explodes out of the mid-range and treble horns with extreme dynamism and an impressive efficiency of about 104 dB. This presentation is accompanied by the bass woofer working in tandem with a dedicated 400-watt power amplifier, delivering a spectacular rendition of Avantgarde Acoustic’s “Purity Meets Performance” credo.

However, the technological quantum leap taken by the ZERO 1 comes courtesy of the perfection of the digital audio chain. The ZERO 1 succeeds in processing digital signals in uncompromising quality and transmitting them directly to the drivers without taking loss-making detours via passive filters. This is made possible by extremely sophisticated digital processing which is a trailblazer in terms of quality.

Simpler, freer and less complicated—the ZERO 1 philosophy is also reflected in its multitude of inputs. So that all you have to worry about is the music!

Digital Inputs
USB, Toslink, SPDIF and the professional AES/EBU input—this covers the entire range of commonly used digital interfaces.  However, due to the vast range of standards and frequent codex updates, as a timeless high-end loudspeaker, the ZERO 1 renounces a built-in wireless interface. Nevertheless, you can easily use the ZERO 1 as a WLAN loudspeaker via the wireless receiver of your choice (e.g. AirPort Express).

Analogue Inputs
Sine the ZERO 1 comes with a digital FPGA front end, analogue signals (e.g. from turntables, amplifiers or measuring microphones) must first be digitized. The input board has an empty slot for this purpose. It can be fitted with an AD board without having to open the loudspeaker cabinet.

The ZERO 1 is completely different than anything else we have produced so far. And yet it sounds so amazingly familiar. “Purity Meets Performance”—when listening to the ZERO 1, we immediately realize that we have an Avantgarde Acoustics horn loudspeaker in front of us. An acoustic transducer from the high-end factory, which has been drawing on its understanding of tonal perfection for over 20 years to turn the superlative into a benchmark. An ambition that has left its mark on each and every detail of the process of creating the ZERO 1.

From the material used to craft the cabinet and horn—a highly innovative ABS polymer with outstanding tonal properties—via ground-breaking FPGA processing which redefines digital quality through a series of filtering features to top-notch amplification technology, every component radiates our passionate and uncompromising approach.

This culminates in an acoustic transducer with a convincing concept and amazing tonal presentation. A loudspeaker that is the first of its kind. Because it was created for an era that has just begun.

A common challenge faced by digital signal processing is the amount of data needed to perform complex calculations. This is why the bit rate is usually reduced in conventional DSPs, resulting in rounding errors and what is known as rounding noise. The ZERO 1 solves this elementary problem with more intelligent, higher-performance FPGA processing of up to 66 bits.

 

FINITE IMPULSE RESPONSE FILTER

Precise down to one-millionth of a second, the FIR filter provides a sensational impulse response. This means that the 3 channels (bass, midrange and tweeter) reproduce music in absolute synchronicity. Moreover, thanks to the FIR filter the ZERO 1 has perfect phase characteristics, with deviations of less than 5 degrees. By comparison, your average loudspeaker has maximum deviations of 500 to 1,500 degrees.

 

PROGRESSIVE STEEPNESS FILTER

The ZERO 1 uses progressive steepness filters. To obtain optimum impulse characteristics, a 6 dB filter is used at the crossover point, after which it becomes progressively steeper until 100 dB. The tonal advantages run the gamut from outstanding impulse responses via an extremely strong filtering and blocking effect to the elimination of unnecessary driver strain and ringing effects.

 

24-BIT CONVERTER CHIPS

When processing the digital signal of the music source and filtering it for the 6 drivers, the ZERO 1 operates in the digital domain—and thus loss- and error-free— for as long as possible. Only in the end does the digital-to-analogue conversion take place. Very high-value 24-bit converter chips by the renowned manufacturer Burr & Brown are used for this purpose, ensuring that the precision of the upstream signal path is maintained during the analogue conversion process.

 

MASTER-SLAVE WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY

Master and slave connections between ZERO 1 loudspeakers are wireless—eliminating the need for cables. Although this simplifies setup considerably, it is important that the wireless connection does not deteriorate the sound in any way. The ZERO 1 provides tonal perfection by transmitting the volume over a dedicated wireless channel, applying it only once it has arrived at the slave. The data transfer rate is 44.1 kHz at 16 bits and is bit-perfect. Another measure taken to achieve this is to delay the master by less than 2 microseconds in order to make up for the time needed to process the radio link. This ensures that the master and slave’s musical output is absolutely synchronous.

Simaudioから、「 Moon Neo 」シリーズ登場！！！

海外ニュース速報 [World]

Simaudio Ltd. proudly introduces the MOONNeo series. Pronounced “knee-o”, every aspect of this new series was conceived to remind people of our flagship Evolution series, but at a fraction of the price. Using aesthetics from the much more expensive Evolution series, the Neoseriesmodelsincorporate a variety of circuit enhancements to noticeably improve sound quality. Neois destined to give customers many years of musical enjoyment and complete satisfaction.
Neo takes the place of most models previously available in the MOON series. Existing MOON series model numbers will not change. However, the new ones will be identified with the word “Neo”. Beginning with six models, this series will grow in the very near future.

MOON Neo Models:
■380D Digital-to-Analog Converter with 32-bit architecture
■220i Integrated Amplifier (40 watts/channel)
■250i Integrated Amplifier (50 watts/channel)
■340i Integrated Amplifier (100 watts/channel)
■350P Preamplifier (with optional DAC & Phono)
■330A Power Amplifier (125 watts/channel)
■400M Power Amplifier (400 watt mono)
Neo series models will be unveiled at the 2013 edition of the “High-End Munich Show” in Germany, running from May 9th through 12th. Simaudio Ltd. will be located in suite F109, Atrium 4,1 on the 2nd floor for the duration of this show.

The MOON Neo series will be available in May 2013

 

Nēo, pronounced “knee-o”, comes from the ancient Greek word meaning “new” denoting this exciting range of MOON products. Borrowing heavily from the Evolution Series’ aesthetics, Nēo incorporates numerous circuit enhancements to noticeably improve sound quality. Every aspect of the Nēo Series is designed to remind you of the much-more-expensive Evolution Series, but at a fraction of the price.

Nēo = A fusion of lifestyle and technology Nēo takes the place of most models previously available in the MOON range, while setting a new standard for performance, build quality, and appearance for affordable, high-end audio products. Existing model numbers will not change, except that the new ones will be identified with the word “Nēo”. For example, the 250i will be referred to as the Nēo 250i.

The standard finish for Nēo series products is “all black”. However, both an “all silver” finish and a “2-tone” finish (silver cheeks with black faceplate) are available.

[Nēo 380D]
NDesigned around our M-AJiC32 circuitry (an asynchronous jitter elimination system) performing in true 32-bit fully asynchronous mode, the Nēo 380D features the ESS SABRE32 Ultra DAC operating in 32-bit Hyperstream™ where the conversion process uses an astonishing 8 DAC’s per channel. Raising the bar further, there are eight (8) digital inputs covering the full gamut of connections – USB, S/PDIF, AES/EBU, and Optical. All of these inputs accept a signal up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. Finally, we’ve included a full digital monitor loop (S/PDIF) to accommodate external devices such as a room correction component.

Enhancing this Digital-to-Analog Converter are two (2) separate options; (i) The MOON MiND music streamer module which is actually a 9th digital input, via WiFi or Ethernet connection, and (ii) a high quality remote-controlled volume circuit feeding both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) analog outputs. The 380D is targeted at individuals with computer-based audio setups, large digital music collections or multiple digital sources. It portrays all of the Simaudio sonic hallmarks: clean, powerful, fast and extended bass combined with an open midrange and airy extended high frequencies.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as SimLink™, 12V trigger, RS-232 and IR ports for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 380D is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).

 

[Nēo 250i]
The Nēo 250i delivers “audiophile” performance in an affordable and elegant package. Designed with numerous convenient features, this integrated amplifier will provide for years of hassle-free musical enjoyement. Nearly thirty-five years of experience in the design and manufacturing of award winning high-performance audio components has paved the way for this highly desireable product.

Using numerous technologies found in our other highly sought after integrated amplifiers, the Nēo 250i produces an astonishing level of sonic performance with no equal in its price range.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as SimLink™, RS-232 and IR ports for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 50i is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).

 

[Nēo 340i]
The Nēo 340i redefines the possibilites of what an integrated amplifier can be. Loaded with numerous convenient features and unbeatable sonic performance, the 340i provides for unprecedented flexibility. Featuring an options package, unheralded in the world of high-performance audio, which includes (1) an internal digital-to-analog converter with multiple inputs (USB, S/PDIF & Optical); (2) an internal phono preamplifier for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges; and (3) a balanced line-level input. All 3 of these options are available in any combination, either at the time of purchase or as a future upgrade.

Our own unique heat-sink geometry allows for ultra-effective and efficient cooling. The 340i’s oversized power supply contains a large custom toroidal transformer and substantial energy storage. This allows for the uncompromised performance of each and every element within this highly advanced and multi-faceted component.

The Nēo 340i combines nearly 35 years of experience in the design and manufacturing of award winning products with numerous unique technologies found in many of our other components. This integrated amplifier will be the heart and soul of your home-entertainent system for many many years … call it the the birth of a legend.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as SimLink™, 12V trigger, RS-232 and IR ports for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 340i is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).

 

[Nēo 350P]
The Nēo 350P is a high-performance differential preamplifier. Using circuitry derived from our Evolution Series, the 350P is a modular design that accepts optional plug-in modules: (i) a 24-bit/192kHz high-performance D/A converter with USB, optical (TosLink)and RCA (S/PDIF) inputs, and (ii) a configurable phono stage for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. This preamplifier’s wide bandwidth and excellent dynamic range allows it to effortlessly reproduce high-resolution audio. A well organized and thorough rear panel allows for connectivity to virtually any audio component.

For the headphone enthusiast, the Nēo 350P is engineered with a discrete headphone amplifier stage, which allows it to effortlessly drive even the world’s finest headphones. An audiophile-grade product with a toroidal tranformer-based large power supply, military-spec passive and active components, and state-of-the-art surface-mount manufacturing techniques helps make this the finest affordable MOON preamplifier to date.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as SimLink™, 12V trigger, RS-232 and IR ports for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 350P is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).

 

[Nēo 330A]
The Nēo 330A is a differential stereo power amplifier that effortlessly produces 125 watts/channel into 8Ω and 250 Watts/channel into 4Ω. Think of tight, deep, authoritative bass with lightning fast speed, an incredibly low noise floor, excellent dynamic range, a transparent lifelike soundstage and the 330A will come to mind. In the end, this amplifier performs in an exceedingly musical and accurate way.

This is the the result of a variety of proven technologies: Our highly acclaimed Advanced Renaissance amplifier circuit with zero global feedback, DC-coupled circuitry and our own proprietary bipolar output transistors. Our own unique heat-sink geometry allows for ultra-effective and efficient cooling. The amplifier’s oversized power supply contains a large proprietary toroidal transformer and substantial energy storage. Finally, with both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs, the Nēo 330A represents the ultimate choice for performance, reliability and affordability.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as 12V Triggers and RS-232 for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 330A is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).

 

[Nēo 400M]
The Nēo 400M is a fully differential mono power amplifier that effortlessly produces 400 watts into 8Ω and 650 Watts into 4Ω. Think of tight, deep, authoritative bass with lightning fast speed, an incredibly low noise floor, excellent dynamic range, a transparent lifelike soundstage and the 400M will come to mind. In the end, this amplifier will effortlessly drive any loudspeaker. Even difficult loads will not impede its ability to remain exceedingly musical and accurate. The 400M equals true high-performance in a compact package without compromise.

This is the the result of a variety of proven technologies: Our highly acclaimed Advanced Renaissance amplifier circuit with zero global feedback, DC-coupled circuitry and our own proprietary bipolar output transistors. Our own unique heat-sink geometry allows for ultra-effective and efficient cooling. The amplifier’s oversized power supply contains a large proprietary toroidal transformer and substantial energy storage. Finally, with both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs, as well as a high damping factor, the Nēo 400M represents the ultimate choice for performance, reliability and affordability.

Of course, key features you’d expect in a MOON Neo Series products are present such as 12V Triggers and RS-232 for custom-install environments. Finally, the Nēo 400M is available in three different finishes: all black, all silver or two-tone (black & silver).