THE HI–FI HEADLINES
NEWSLETTER No.244
At last, we now have a soundbar that we can confidently sell based on performance! Sennheiser have set out to see how good a soundbar can sound, rather than how cheaply they can build one. This is an Atmos 5.1.4 design utilising 13 high-end drivers, and the advantages of Sennheiser’s Ambeo 3D technology is obvious – switch it in and out and the difference is remarkable. Its ability to position sounds around you is uncanny. More importantly it can also be tailored to enhance voice intelligibility, something that is still a failing (surprisingly) of many soundbars. Our testing found it to be vastly superior to the majority of soundbars on the market – able to compete
We are pleased to announce that the eagerly awaited Krell K300i integrated amplifier has finally been released in Australia. It has been on the American market (in small numbers) for some months now, and the comments filtering back have been glowing – and we agree completely. After spending many hours putting it through its paces quite competently with a well-thought- out conventional 5.1 system. Yes, it’s that good! It is a big unit, measuring 125.6cm in length, and weighing 18.5kg, but if you have the space (and the funds) for a Sennheiser Ambeo you will never look back. with multiple challenging pieces of music, we’ve found it to have far more control and perceived power (it sounds much louder than its rated 150 watts) than any integrated amplifier of this size should. It is both rock-solid and the same time thoroughly musical and engaging. Consider it recommended. The K300i is a 150watt/channel integrated amplifier, available with digital inputs ($11,995), or without ($9,995), and it comes in either silver or black finish.
. Another new addition is the Rega Planar 8 turntable. While this sells for the same price as its predecessor ($3,499), it is a greatly improved performer. Throw a decent recording at it and marvel at the signal to noise performance. In our view, Planar 8 it is now at a level of capability that makes it the default choice at this price point. All you need do is fit a quality cartridge like the fantastic Kiseki and you have a stunning front end. We are also proud to announce that we are now carrying the Linn range of music streamers. As many of you know we have been big fans of their LP12 turntable, in its various forms, for a very long time. In 1972 Ivor Tiefenbrun proved to the world that there were demonstrable differences in the performance between turntables. They are now doing the same with streamers.
The models we have range from the Majik at $4k, through to the Klimax DSM which sells for $35k. If you are wondering just how good streaming can be, drop in and have a listen.