Audiophilepure

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“My memories are still fond of the Cambridge Audio DacMagic that was released back in 1996, and it’s hard to believe that it was that long ago. Perhaps I’m showing my age. To my mind, Cambridge Audio has always represented great value and produces products that punch well above their weight. Cambridge Audio’s Edge A is no exception.

The simplicity of styling and operation are outstanding and fresh in a copy-cat kind of world. It is a well thought out package and is in step with modern needs. But it’s the sound quality that really has me excited. It delivers sound the way that I prefer, with enthusiasm, youthfulness, dynamic expression and musicality that only genuinely great products deliver. It’s fun to listen to and begged me to keep playing a little longer.”

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I’m not going to beat around the bush here: The Technics SU-G700 stereo integrated amplifier is the kind of product I get a little weak in the knees over. It has both style and substance, coupled with a retail price that is on the saner side of the audiophile spectrum. While there are other integrated amplifiers on the market that may have a few more inputs, output, or features, the SU-G700 gets the balance just right for the price. It’s nice, in 2019, to come across a product that is decidedly modern in its approach to sound reproduction, and yet feels altogether familiar–dare I say comfortable in its everyday use.”

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“What makes the Schiit Audio Aegir so special is how it generates class-D-like force and clarity plus the information-dense refinements of class-A. And how, at $799, it could dare to sound as trippy and lifelike as it does.The Aegir struck me as a design that will withstand and even rejoice in the scrutiny of time—much like the affordable Wharfedale, KEF, Harbeth, and Magnepan loudspeakers I tested it with.”

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“My unit came loaded in its Selekt DSM Katalyst with Integrated Power Amplifier guise ($8,625 USD as configured) with all the options available in the two-channel model (if you want Surround Sound, there are differing processing and input/output options). This included the base network music player, an upgraded Katalyst spec’d DAC, built-in digital preamplifier section driving an bespoke Linn-designed, 100-watt/channel bridged Class-D power amplifier – an option not seen in either the Klimax or Akurate models. This integrated design is shared only with the Majik configuration (90-watt Chakra amplification for Majik) in the DSM lineup. Connected support (no wi-fi or Bluetooth here, Linn believes in the sanctity of the wired connection for the highest quality sound possible) is native for FLAC, Apple Lossless, WAV, AIFF, WMA (not lossless), MP3, AAC and OGG all up to 24-bit/192kHz along with DSD 64 and DSD128. THD+N is a rated 0.0002 per cent for line-out and 0.001 per cent for the power amp section with a listed dynamic range of 117dB/110dB respectively.”

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“In a straight comparison of the MA252’s internal phono stage with the standalone Parasound JC-3, the internal unit was understandably less capable, but I wouldn’t make too much of it. It still sounded highly enjoyable and gave every indication of being able to accommodate a better cartridge than the Linn K18-ii in use. Its performance when used with an SUT-coupled low output MC was detailed and satisfying. As for the headphone output, I also had little to complain about – it handled a Sennheiser HD650 well enough, with good space and depth perceived, so should be adequate for most users.

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“When my US-made, 250-wpc Acurus amplifier fell victim to a lightning strike seven years ago, I took a serious chance and went over to the dark side with a Chinese-made, 250-wpc Emotiva XPA-2. Essentially because it was the best amp I could afford, and my Maggies needed lotsa watts. My happiness with that amp led me to take an even bigger chance on the pair of 35-watt XPA-1L’s, which I hoped would pair well with the new Zu Omens (they did!). For me, even thinking about dropping down to 3 watts per channel with the Leeloos required a tremendous leap of faith! Totally no worries; the ampsandsound Leeloos are perfectionist-built amplifiers with ample power to drive highly efficient speakers to at-or-near reference levels—with the Zu loudspeakers, they’re a match made in heaven. And they employ time-honored construction practices from the golden age of tube glory; if you have the financial means, you won’t be disappointed in any aspect of their performance. And for high-end headphone users seeking the grail, these amps could very well satisfy your thirst for that very elusive cup. Very highly recommended!”

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‘Having previously reviewed the Wells Akasha and Innamorata amplifiers, and now the Commander Tube Preamplifier, I agree with Jeff Wells’ declaration that his components eschew fancy packaging in favor of fancy designs and parts selection. Wells Audio is a company that is trying to give the enthusiast a component that performs at a high level without the sky-high price tag. Looking inside the unit one sees upper grade parts and a clean, smart layout. I have always been one who could accept a component that is well designed and sounds great, even if the case is economical. I have learned over the years to prioritize power supply and signal path over nearly every other parameter, and that principle has served me well; it also serves Wells Audio customers well.”