Audiophilepure

The Questyle CMA Twelve DAC/Headphone Amplifier

With so much emphasis put on high-resolution files, it’s easy to forget about 16/44. Considering that most of us still either have or stream the bulk of our music at this resolution level, it’s important to note that Questyle hasn’t abandoned CD quality resolution in pursuit of high res. Whether we were playing files from a streamer or disc transport (and we highly suggest the $599 Cambridge CXC for this task) the CMA Twelve shows just how engaging CD playback can be in the year 2021.

The overall sound of the Questyle is dynamic and neutral – neither embellishing nor detracting from the music being played. You can easily fine-tune to your personal preference with your choice of headphones. Questyle offers a high/low bias switch on the CMA Twelve’s front panel, offering more current drive for lower impedance phones. Even with a few lower impedance phones, we struggled to hear a difference with this switch in either position, in this case, your mileage may vary, and this is worth investigating.

https://www.stereophile.com/content/acoustic-energy-ae2-loudspeaker

I found the AE2 to be very fussy both when it came to finding the optimum placement in the room and in choosing source components that enabled it to sing. Although it is relatively expensive even without stands, the dedicated stands are also essential, in my opinion, to getting the most from the AE2. This, of course, puts the system price almost up to $3800, where even small faults become of paramount importance. Its small but noticeable midrange-coloration level might then be thought by some to be a major failing. But if you are more concerned about superb presentation of detail and dynamic impact, coupled with a smooth, uncolored treble, particularly if your tastes run more to rock music, then the AE2 must be considered as one of the finest speakers in this price class.

The bass quality is especially noticeable from the first listen as it has great PRaT. The bass region has great detail and texture. It has a nicely controlled bass response but it gives its authority whenever the record calls for it. The mids are liquid and lush with great resolution and transparency. It gives you a great instrument timbre as well. The mid-range is slightly lifted and closer to the listener in a good way. The instrument realism is wonderful here and the mids are full sounding with a good body.