KL INTERNATIONAL AV SHOW 2024 REPORT

KLIAV 2024 or the Kuala Lumpur International AV Show to give it its full name, marked its 30th anniversary with a dynamic celebration at Kuala Lumpur’s Garden Hotel St. Giles.

HiFi PiG’s Asia correspondent, Gyula , was there for HiFi PiG and you can now read his in depth report of what was at the show….

KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL AV SHOW 2024 REPORT

Spanning five floors and over 60 rooms, the show brought Malaysia’s love for high-fidelity audio and immersive video experiences to life, reflecting the deep-rooted passion of the local audiophile community.

This milestone event attracted notable international figures, including CEOs and chief designers from brands such as Audiovector, Hegel, YG Acoustics, Estelon, Lyngdorf, DS Audio, TAD, Audio Group Denmark, and Siltech, who flew in to join the festivities. Adding to the excitement, members of Singapore’s well-known audio community also attended, sparking lively discussions and cross-border camaraderie.

As first-time attendees, we were excited to dive into the world-class setups and experience the warm welcome from both attendees and organizers. Kuala Lumpur itself added an extra layer of excitement, with its captivating mix of culture, modernity, and architectural beauty enhancing our experience at this iconic AV gathering.

CONCERTS, WORKSHOPS AND NETWORKING

The organisers at 3Dot crafted a well-rounded program that struck a perfect balance, featuring mini concerts, interactive workshops, and ample networking opportunities. Highlights included Richard Mak’s highly popular turntable setup seminar, a fascinating look at Peter Lyngdorf’s groundbreaking contributions to the HiFi world, and an in-depth session from Mr. Aoyagi of DS Audio, who unravelled the complexities of optical cartridges. Without further ado, let’s dive into the rooms and explore the incredible systems on display!

A special shoutout to MA Audio and Todd Garfinkle—a producer known for his incredible ear and unwavering commitment to top-notch recording quality. Todd brought along a superb selection of albums that drew in both long-time fans and curious newcomers. I managed to snag a CD for the trip home (vinyl seemed a bit risky for the journey), and I can’t wait to dive into the beautifully captured sound that he’s renowned for.

AUDIO PERFECTIONIST

Audio Perfectionist—a name fitting for one of Malaysia’s top high-end audio retailers—made a bold statement at KLIAV with a double-feature setup in two grand Skyview rooms, 8 and 9, each room housing two incredible systems. The range of equipment here was ambitious, with brands like Audiovector, Soulution, McIntosh, Audio Group Denmark, and Borresen. Here’s what we found in each carefully crafted setup, and let’s just say, they went all out.

Skyview 9

The highlight in Skyview 9 was the world premiere of Borresen’s brand-new T3 speaker, a compact marvel that packs some serious tech borrowed from the flagship M series. The ribbon tweeter, 3D-printed titanium baskets, and a unique driver design with flat, structured carbon fiber cones make it as much a technical feat as it is a sonic one. As Lars Kristensen sees it, “too many people buy too big speakers,” so the T3 can be a great middleground. The first thing I noted was the impeccable timing and the engaging and dynamic tonality of the speakers. The second thing I noticed was the surprising clarity and depth of the bass, that makes this speaker a well rounded solution for everyone.

System on Demo 1

Speakers: Borresen T3 (world premiere!)

Amp/DAC: Aavik U-588 Streaming/DAC Amplifier

Power Management: Ansuz Mainz8 X-TC3 Power Distributor, Ansuz PowerSwitch A3

Rack: HRS EXR-1921-3V Audio Rack

Cabling: Ansuz Cables and Accessories

System on Demo 2

Speakers: Borresen M6

Amp/DAC: Aavik I-880 Integrated Amplifier, Aavik SD-880 Streamer DAC

Power Management: Ansuz Mainz8 C3 Power Distributor, Ansuz PowerSwitch Gold Signature, Ansuz Ethernet Gold Signature

Rack: Solidsteel HF-2 Audio Rack

Cabling: Ansuz Cables and Accessories

For those who crave a bit more muscle, Borresen’s M6 partnered with the Aavik I-880 and SD-880 brought some serious power. This system’s focus on energy was palpable—you felt it as much as heard it.

Skyview 8

The beautiful Audiovector R8 Arrete paired with Soulution amplification brought an ultra-refined, Scandinavian sensibility to the room. Known for their transparency and focus, the R8s delivered an almost eerie sense of spatial detail. Cary Audio’s DMS700 was a welcome addition, keeping up with the precision and adding a touch of warmth to the digital playback. Kudos for the playlist as well!

System on Demo 3

Speakers: Audiovector R8 Arrete

Amp: Soulution 511 Power Amplifier, Soulution 525 Preamplifier

Source: Cary Audio DMS700 Streamer

Rack: HRS SXR-1921-1V Amp Rack, Solidsteel HY-2 Audio Rack

Power Management: Ansuz Mainz8 A3 Power Distributor, Ansuz PowerSwitch D3

Cabling: Ansuz Cables and Accessories

Walking into the room, the unmistakable McIntosh green and blue glow set the scene—bold, classic, and undeniably attention-grabbing. McIntosh’s 75th-anniversary lineup was flexing hard, with the towering MC1.25KW monoblocks ready to knock the walls down with 1,200 watts each. These powerhouses drove the Audiovector Trapeze Ri speakers with an ease that felt almost smug, but they were up to the task. Audiovector’s Trapeze Ri had some neat tricks too, like a three-position damping factor adjustment to tailor the speaker’s response to different amps (tube, high-current, or your run-of-the-mill solid state). Add in the “Freedom Grounding” feature aimed at killing any unwanted noise, and you’ve got speakers that feel very in-tune with the demands of serious listeners.

But let’s not overlook the analogue hero of the room—the J. Sikora Reference turntable, crowned with a KV12 tonearm and MySonicLab cartridge. This turntable was there to remind everyone why vinyl isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The MySonicLab cartridge brought its own flavour of lush detail, while the KV12 arm let every note settle in just right. Together, McIntosh and Audiovector set up a room that didn’t just sound impressive; it felt like a proper homage to classic high-end gear, with just enough polish and quirks to keep it interesting.

System on Demo 4

Speakers: Audiovector Trapeze Ri

Amp: McIntosh MC1.25KW 75th Anniversary Monoblocks (1,200 watts), C12000 75th Anniversary Hybrid Preamp,

Source: J. Sikora Reference Turntable with KV12 Tonearm, MySonicLab cartridge, Cary Audio DMS700 Streamer, MCD12000 75th Anniversary Hybrid CD Player

Rack: HRS SXR-1921-3V and EXR-1921-2V Audio Racks

Power Management: McIntosh MPC1500 Power Controller, Ansuz Mainz8 C2 Power Distributor

Cabling: Ansuz Cables and Accessories

MIRAI AUDIO

Mirai Audio set up a playground for headphone enthusiasts that was hard to resist. The centrepieces were the Merason Audio DACs and the new Focal Utopia headphones. The small room was always crowded with enthusiasts, equipped with their own DAPs, trying out different headphones from ZMF, Hifiman and others, or the capabilities of the different DACs and amps from Chord, Violectric, and Cayin.

SKYVIEW 7 DREAM AUDIO

The Denon and Polk Audio distributor went all out, showcasing an extensive lineup of both brands’ audio and home cinema setups—a rare sight to see all Denon turntables gathered in one place! Though the Denon DP-3000NE was only on display without a cartridge, it still drew quite a bit of attention. The room featured a complete Polk Audio and Denon setup, with the limited edition Shanling CD-T35 top-loading CD player and streamer as the source. Unfortunately, they cranked up the volume a bit too much, making it hard to settle into the sound.

Speakers: Polk Audio R700

Amp: Denon PMA-1700NE (all-in-one)

Source: Shanling CD-T35

EXECUTIVE C – BOK AUDIO / MU6AUDIO

BOK Audio brought a lovely-sounding setup and some intriguing A-B listening options that were hard to pass up. Among the highlights was an A-B test of Sharkwire’s Genesis fuse. Now, I admit I tend to approach audio tweaks with a touch of scepticism, but I’m open-minded enough to give them a fair shot—and this one did pique my interest.

The Genesis fuse, designed specifically for audio applications, is made with pure silver and encased in synthetic Tatsu stone, with tellurium copper end caps that are notably larger than usual, all in the name of reducing micro-resonances. Add to this a plating of pure copper, silver, and gold—no nickel involved—and it’s quite the unique fuse setup.

During the A-B test, the Genesis fuse did, surprisingly, make a difference. With it in place, percussion felt more refined, the soundstage opened up, and the background silence gained an added depth. When removed, the sibilance crept in, timing loosened, and the overall soundstage felt a touch more compressed. It’s subtle, yes, but that elusive 2-5% improvement is the kind of thing audiophiles can’t resist.

Speakers: ATC SCM20 ASL

Amp: DL Audio Lab DL200P R2R preamplifier

Source: Shanglian SCD1.3 SACD player

Rack: MYSTJ

Cabling: Sharkwire Blue Sea Sumptuous and Great White cables

EXECUTIVE AB CINEMAGICA BY GOLDENDUCK

Cinemagica by Goldenduck had one of the most captivating setups of the show, thanks in no small part to Peter Lyngdorf’s enthusiastic approach and impressive lineup of Lyngdorf and Steinway Lyngdorf systems. A real showstealer was the petite S-15 speakers paired with dual subs—these truly tiny speakers delivered such a massive, balanced soundstage that many attendees believed the much larger (and equally impressive) Model A speakers were at work! Peter, as always, was a delightful and well-prepared host, guiding us through his unique audio philosophy in a conversation as engaging as the demo itself.

Adding to the room’s appeal, the Waterfall Audio Victoria XT speakers brought elegance as part of a sophisticated living room setup, while a full-scale 9.2.4 home cinema setup took things to another level. Featuring the Sony VPL-XW7000ES projector and AudioControl electronics alongside Aperion Audio TC65 speakers, this immersive configuration hit the sweet spot for both movie enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.

Speakers: Steinway Lyngdorf S-15 and Model A

Amp: Model A2, P100 2.1

Processor/Source: P100 2.1

SKYVIEW 1 – AV DESIGN

AV Designs easily had one of the best-sounding rooms in the entire show. TAD rarely disappoints, but the thought and meticulous attention to room acoustics here were especially admirable. I had the pleasure of meeting Joseph Ki, who not only hosted but was also the mastermind behind the room’s design. Joseph shared his sketches, giving us insight into the planning that went into creating such an ideal listening space—an experience we’re thrilled to share here. The carefully curated music selection enhanced the atmosphere even more, making this room stand out.

Speakers: TAD GE1

Amp: TAD M700s power amp, TAD C700 pre-amp

Source: TAD D700 DAC and CD player, Innuos ZENith Next-Gen streamer

Rack: Bassocontinuo

Cabling: TAD

SKYVIEW 2 – SIMPLICITY CONTROL

Simplicity Control brought the highly regarded Alsyvox Tintoretto full-range ribbon speakers to the show, paired with impressive electronics from EMM Labs and a beautifully crafted Yuki turntable. The setup promised sonic purity and clarity, yet the room was often occupied by artist recording sessions—a move that, while interesting, felt a bit counterproductive in an exhibition setting. Still, I’ll admit I’m curious to hear the final recording they’re working on!

Speakers: Alsyvox Tintoretto

Amp: Emmlabs PRE and MTRS 200W power amp

Source: Emmlabs DA2i Streaming DAC, EQ1 V2 phonostage, Yuki AP-01 turntable, with DS Audio Grandmaster cartridge

Rack: hORNS

Power management: KECES IQRP-3600 Power distributor, KECES P-28 DC Power supply

Cableing:  Albedo Silver Metamorphosis and David Laboga Ruby

SKYVIEW 3 – HIFI CREATIONS

HiFi Creations showcased another impressive setup featuring full-range ribbon speakers, this time from Clarisys. With a focus on digital sources, the room delivered a beautifully detailed sound, though the playlist was a bit too familiar during my visit.

Speakers: Clarysis Minuet Plus

Amp: Accuphase P-7500

Source: Playback Designs MPD-8 A.I. Dac, Pink Faun 2.16 Ultra music server

Rack: HRS

Power management: Frank PB-15000Ws, Accuphase PS-1230

SKYVIEW 5 – ACTSESSORY SHOPPE

This room packed a punch with a sprawling 5.8.4 Atmos setup, delivering not just cinematic impact but also a refreshing take on musical immersion. Movie clips thundered through the space, showing off the system’s dynamic prowess, but it was the unexpected treat of Point Yello that stole the show, casting an atmospheric spell that hooked everyone in the room.

Speakers: Ascendo THE 12 (x3) THE 6 (x2), THE 16 active sub (x8) and THE 5 (x4)

Amp: JBL SDR35 and ARCAM PA410

Projector: JVC NZ-700

SKYVIEW 6, 2703 – EPSON

EPSON took a fun, hands-on approach to the show, bringing a mix of their latest tech and some interactive flair. Their EH-QL3000W projector dazzled with full 4K resolution and stunning image quality, drawing plenty of attention. Alongside it, the EF-21 and EF-22 portable projectors made their debut, adding versatility for those on the go. A gaming corner rounded out the experience, giving attendees a chance to see EPSON’s TW6250 in action for gaming, adding an extra layer of excitement to their setup.

2701 D&A ANALOGUE / AFC TOP HIFI

AFC Top HiFi brought a captivating mix of rare finds to the show, turning heads with both the classic and the unexpected. The room was anchored by the Piega Coax 611 and Canton Reference 9 speakers. Powering these gems was the Melody Everest 211 MKII—making its debut here—with a pure 18W of tube power in Class A, delivering that warm, rich sound only tubes can provide. Alongside, the Swedish heavyweight (85kg!) Bladelius Oden II amp kept things dynamic and balanced. The Laiv Harmony Dac also had a relaunch during the show, introducing their HP2A headphone setup.

Speakers: Piega Coax 611 and Canton Reference 9

Amp: Melody Everest 211 MKII and Bladelius Oden II

Source: Xtark Network Streamer, LAIV Harmony DAC

Power management: TSAKIRIDIS

Cableing: Inakustik

2702 LYDEG

Lydag’s room was a head-turner with some truly unusual audio accessories that left even seasoned audiophiles curious. As a newcomer focusing on “booster technology,” they showcased their high-end OCEIL RCA Booster models, including the OCE-LE/LY and LD—these adapters promise to elevate audio quality with enhanced balance, rich detail, and lifelike precision. They also had spider-shaped speaker cable boosters; they certainly made quite the visual statement. Whether or not they deliver on all fronts is up for debate, but they definitely brought a memorable aesthetic to the show.

2705 CREATIVE AV / FURUTECH

2707 LU KANG AUDIO

LuKang presented a refined high-end setup featuring their Spoey 200 speakers, which delivered impressive detail and depth, driven by the Gryphon Audio Diablo 120 integrated amplifier. Adding to the experience was the Watson Emerson DAC streamer, creating a seamless digital-to-analogue path that highlighted every nuance. This setup was a well-balanced blend of precision and warmth, proving that LuKang is dedicated to crafting systems that cater to audiophiles with a keen ear for high fidelity.

Speakers: Lu Kang Spoey 200

Amp: Gryphon Diablo D120

Source: Wattson Audio Emerson

Rack: TiGLON GMR Rack

Cableing: TiGLON and LuKang

2708 JOINT MEDIA SYSTEMS

Joint Media’s room featured the DIVA EX-7 and EX-mini switches in action, demonstrated through an enviable system that certainly left a impression. With Tannoy speakers paired with the Airtight amplifier and dCS Bartok as the digital source, this setup didn’t hold back in showing what high-end network switches could bring to the table.

Speakers: TANNOY STIRLING III LZ SPECIAL EDITION

Amp: Airtight ATM-1 2024 power amp,

Source: dCS Bartok

Rack: Thixar

Switch: DIVA EX-7 and EX-mini

2710 DIVINI AUDIO DESIGN

Taiwan’s own DIVINI Audio brought out some flagship-level gear, turning heads with the debut of their new LPS power supply and a prototype of their upcoming Class AB mono power amplifier. The amp’s design is certainly distinctive—refreshingly unconventional for those looking beyond the usual. Paired with their Reference 8 speakers, featuring Scanspeak drivers, the setup delivered a warm and engaging sound that drew in listeners.

Speakers: Divini Reference 8

Amp: Divini Prototype mono AB power amp

Source: MSB Audio Reference DAC

Rack: NEO

Power management:  Divini LPS 400.2

Cableing: Divini

2711 ZUN PEN AUDIO

Speakers: Lawrence Audio

Amp: Bryston BP19 pre, 483 power amplifier

Source: Mark&Levinson No.5101

Rack: Bassocontinuo Essenza

2712 SYMPHONIC MUSIC

Brodmann and Nuprime brought together the best of two worlds: the classical elegance of Brodmann with the cutting-edge technology of Nuprime. Despite their contrasting approaches—one steeped in tradition, the other embracing modernity—this setup showed surprising synergy. The sound was rich and cohesive, and what’s more, the setup’s compact footprint means it won’t demand a mansion to shine. Truly, a lovely mix that proves opposites can work beautifully together.

Speakers: Brodmann F2

Amp: Nuprime AMG pre and power amplifier

2713 WKH / STYLE LASER AUDIO

Finally, I got a chance to experience the legendary Klipsch Cornwalls in a well-thought-out setup—and they didn’t disappoint. Paired with a blend of precise Japanese electronics from Esoteric and cables from Chord, the system had that dynamic, lively character Klipsch fans rave about. The Cornwalls brought their trademark punch and scale, filling the room with ease. For all the hype around them, I have to say, it’s well-deserved.

Speakers: Klipsch Cornwall IV

Amp: Esoteric S05 power amplifier

Source: Esoteric N-05XD DAC and Preamp with G-05 Master clock

Cableing: Chord

2714 HARMAN

JBL made quite a splash with their latest receiver lineup, including the MA310 and MA710, infusing fresh energy into the brand. Meanwhile, Arcam’s new additions—the much-anticipated SA45 and SA35 integrated amplifiers, along with the ST5 and ST25 network streamers—were on proud display. Though, unfortunately, these were only for static viewing, leaving us all curious about how they sound in action. JBL’s classic series was another highlight, featuring the TT250 turntable, SA550 amplifier, and MP350 media player, bringing a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist. Together, JBL’s retro-inspired classics and Arcam’s sleek new releases set a clear direction for what’s next from the Harman group.

Stereo setup:

Speakers: JBL Stage 250B with 200P sub

Amp: JBL MA310

Source: JBL CD350, JBL Spinner BT turntable

Home cinema setup:

Speakers: JBL Stage 260F, 245C, 240H with 220P sub

Amp: JBL MA9100HP

Source: 77” OLED TV

2715 ACESONIC

This room was a true showcase of Taiwan’s audio craftsmanship, bringing together a mix of respected local brands. KECES impressed with their renowned power management units, along with their robust power and preamps, while TIEN Audio added analog warmth with their beautifully crafted TT1 turntable. The spotlight, however, was on GAIT’s innovative speakers featuring glass drivers—a unique design that promises clarity and a refined audio signature. Altogether, this setup made a powerful case for Taiwan’s place in high-end audio, balancing tradition with forward-thinking technology.

Speakers: GAIT Alala

Amp: KECES S300 power amp, KECES S4 preamp (read our review here)

Source: KECES Ebravo streamer, TIEN Audio TT1 Turntable

Power management: KECES IQRP3600

Cableing: Albedo

2716 ADVANCETEK

MPSOURCE, a standout in the cable manufacturing world, has gained a reputation for producing top-notch audio cables under its own flagship line as well as its mid-tier MPS series. Beyond their branded products, they play a significant role in the industry as an OEM and ODM producer, crafting cables for numerous well-known brands.

2718 A & L AUDIO

The room featuring Audio Physic and Electrocompaniet brought a refined setup that pleased the ears of many attendees. With Audio Physic’s detailed and open-sounding speakers paired with Electrocompaniet’s musical electronics, the synergy was evident from the first note.

Speakers: Audio Physic TEMPO and CODEX

Amp: Electrocompaniet 250R, EC 4.8 MKII preamp and ECI 6 DX MKII integrated

Source: Electrocompaniet ECM 1 MKII streamer,

Power management: voodoo cable

2719/ 2020 THE EXPERTS GROUP (TEG)

In two well-curated rooms, the setup covered both home cinema and HiFi audio, showcasing an impressive range of brands. The home cinema room featured SVS and Triangle speakers powered by Primare electronics. Also in the room, the limited edition Triangle Capella, dressed in a stunning blueish hue, was a visual standout and equally pleasing in sound. Meanwhile, the HiFi room brought together Triangle, Monitor Audio, Roksan, and Rotel, with the Monitor Audio Studio 89 shining in particular. Its crisp clarity and balance made it a memorable listening experience.

Speakers: Monitor Audio Studio 89 with SVS 3000 micro sub

Amp/Source: Rotel RAS-5000 all in one

2721 TECH X

Focusing on high-quality yet accessible audio, this room offered a carefully curated mix of popular brands like WIIM, DALI, PSB, and MoFi speakers, all paired with Willsenton tube amplifiers. The setup struck a balance between affordability and performance, allowing listeners to experience rich, engaging sound without breaking the bank. This blend of respected brands with Willsenton’s warm tube-driven character made for an inviting setup, demonstrating that great audio doesn’t always come with a high price tag.

Speakers: PSB Audio Passif 50

Amp: Willsenton R-800i 300B amplifier,

Source: WIIM

2722 CHOY AUDIO

Zidoo and Eversolo, two of the hottest names in digital streaming, made a strong showing at the event, cementing their relevance in today’s audio scene. Sharing the room were the imposing Polk Legend L800 speakers, partnered with Denon electronics. The L800, a true behemoth, took up a notable part of the space—perhaps a bit too much to perform at its peak, but it undeniably made a visual statement!

Speakers: Polk Legend L800 lc

Amp: Denon PMA-3000NE integrated amplifier

Source: Eversolo DMP-A8

2723 NIRVANA AUDIO

The Nirvana Audio Chronos room highlighted some fascinating technology from this Taiwanese innovator. Known for their unique approach to audio optimization, Nirvana Audio showcased the Chronos—a device designed to elevate audio systems by enhancing acoustic resonance and optimizing everything from signal production to the final sound waves reaching our ears. In an A-B listening session, the results were clear: sibilance was more controlled, and overall sound tightened, creating a noticeably refined listening experience. With cables treated using Chronos tech, the room demonstrated the powerful impact this device can bring to any high-fidelity setup.

Speakers: Boenicke W5

Amp: Heed Obelisk Si3

Source: Mytek Brooklyn Bridge

Cableing: treated with Nirvana Chronos technology

2724 BOK AUDIO RESOURCES

GoalBon, a quite fresh name in audio, made an impressive debut with the LS-35 integrated tube amplifier. Designed specifically for BBC LS-3/5A speakers, it uniquely offers 8, 11, and 15-ohm output settings to match both vintage and updated versions of these iconic speakers. Built around EL34 tubes and delivering 35 watts per channel, the LS-35 brought out a rich midrange, refined highs, and relaxed bass, elevating the LS-3/5A’s sound. The custom transformer and thoughtful design are a true celebration of classic audio, bridging vintage charm with modern finesse.

Speakers: LS-3/5A

Amp: Goal bon LS-35

Source: Audiolab CD

Cableing: Sharkwire Cables

2601 FORESTS HILLS

The room featured an impressive lineup, with Cabasse’s Rialto active speakers showing off their dynamic range and precision in a compact, modern form. Right beside them, the elegant B&W 803 D4 speakers, powered by Classe’s Stereo and Pre amplifiers, delivered that unmistakable depth and detail B&W is known for.

Speakers: B&W 803 D4

Amp: Classe Delta Stereo and Pre

Source: WIIM Ultra

Cableing and Power: Ansuz

2602 INFINITI AUDIO

Infiniti Audio showcased Marantz’s newly launched Model 10 and SACD10, pairing them with the elegant B&W 702 Signature speakers. The combination brought out Marantz’s signature warmth and clarity, while the 702 Signatures delivered the detail and depth that B&W fans expect.

Speakers: B&W 702 Signature

Amp: Marantz Model 10

Source: Marantz SACD 10, Eversolo DMP-A8

Cableing: Inakustik

2603 HON-CHEN HARDWARE

Obit Audio, a specialist in vibration management, focuses on enhancing audio clarity by isolating components from disruptive resonances. Their isolation platforms, crafted with precision-layered alloys, are engineered to absorb and disperse micro-vibrations that can blur fine audio details. These platforms provide solid mechanical stability and allow equipment to reach peak sonic performance by reducing interference and refining the sound stage. Their A-B demo drew a captivated audience, with a detailed explanation (in Chinese) that highlighted the thoughtful design behind these platforms and their impact on audio quality.

Speakers: PMC Prodigy P5

Amp: Bryston Bi-200 integrated amplifier

Source: JBL Classic 350 CD Player

Rack: Bassocontinuo Essenze Proton

Obit acoustic isolation platform

2604 AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS

AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS was an intriguing exhibitor, standing out as not strictly audio-focused but bridging the gap between high-end AV and comprehensive home automation. They offer seamless integration of audio and video technology with broader home intelligence systems, enhancing the overall experience. Their room drew considerable interest, reflecting the growing demand for more cohesive audio-visual experiences within a fully automated environment.

2605/ 2606 CENTRE CIRCLE AUDIO

Centre Circle Audio, a major distributor in the high-end audio scene, had a captivating static display room at the show, offering a rare close-up with some of the industry’s most revered brands. The room showcased a collection of standout pieces from Mola Mola, HiFi Rose, MoFi, SPL Audio, Avantgarde’s Colibri speakers, and Plixir’s power solutions—giving visitors a hands-on look at these premium components and sparking plenty of audiophile interest.

Their demo room was a treat for high-end audio fans, featuring the rarely heard WADAX Studio Player—a piece that’s elusive even among seasoned audiophiles. Paired with an impressive analog setup including the VPI HW40 turntable and DS Master 3 cartridge, the room offered an exceptional experience that combined the best of digital precision and analog warmth. The entire system was meticulously curated, delivering a deeply engaging sound that felt as refined as it was expansive.

Speakers: Kharma DB9s

Amp: T+A A300HV power amplifier, T+A PSD3100HV preamplifier/DAC

Source: WADAX Studio Player , VPI HW40 Turntable, DS Master 3 cartridge

Rack: Critical Mass UltraQ rack

Powermanagement: Plixir

5TH FLOOR

The 5th floor served as a vibrant exhibition hall, bustling with various audio brands and equipment. While the acoustics weren’t ideal for critical listening, it was a feast for the eyes, showcasing an impressive lineup of well-known brands. Rega fans were treated to nearly the entire range, including a Harbeth setup driven by the Rega Osiris and Isis—definitely a pairing I’d love to hear in a more intimate space. Also on display were the refined pieces from Rogue Audio and NEAT Acoustics, giving visitors a taste of high-quality audio across multiple setups.

Brodmann took a different approach in the main hall by showcasing their renowned grand pianos, including an automatic player model that synced with their speaker setup.

Across the room, KEF, Cambridge Audio, Focal, Bluesound, NAD, and Magnat displayed their latest offerings. Focal’s Diva Utopia stood out with its chic gray felt finish and striking red accents, making it both visually and sonically enticing—a true showstopper in design and appeal.

BALLROOM 1 PERFECT HIFI

The grand ballroom hosted a stellar lineup, featuring renowned brands like Sonus Faber, Accuphase, Audio Research, Nagra, Vivid Audio, Wilson Audio, and Aurender, all showcasing their latest offerings. Two standout systems caught attention here: one paired Sonus Faber with the Amati G5 and Nagra electronics, while the other combined Wilson Audio speakers with Audio Research equipment.

Mukava, an acoustic furniture and treatment solution provider, added a fresh twist to the room—this was my first time encountering their brand, and it certainly looked promising. The gallery extending from the ballroom displayed an impressive array of AudioQuest and Nordost cables.

BALLROOM 2 DESA HOME THEATER

BALLROOM 3 CMY AUDIO

This room was a treasure trove for high-end audio fans, with three unique configurations that fascinated everyone who entered. The outstanding Estelon Extreme speakers were showcased alongside Hegel’s high-powered H30A dual-mono amplifiers, P30A preamplifier, and Viking CD player. REL No.32 subwoofers (6pack) and Siltech Master Crown single crystal silver cables completed the flagship system. The Estelon Extremes produced a superbly refined sound with enormous depth, which was enhanced by Hegel’s blend of power and elegance. The REL subwoofers blended smoothly, giving richness without overpowering the Estelons’ exceptional clarity, while the Siltech cables guaranteed that every nuance of the music showed through with startling purity.

On the other end of the spectrum, a vintage-inspired system used Primaluna’s Evo400 tube amplification, a Metronome Le Player 4+ CD player, and an Aurender Aries S1 streamer to power the delightful Fyne Audio Vintage XV speakers. This arrangement was a fitting tribute to old hi-fi, with a warm, inviting sound that pulled listeners in. The Fyne Audio Vintage XV speakers, with their classic design, produced detailed and powerful sound. When combined with Primaluna’s tube richness and Metronome’s precision, this system was both nostalgic and sophisticated, providing a beautiful listening experience with each track.

A modern Dynaudio Contour Legacy system rounded out the lineup, powered by Luxman’s reference-grade D10X DAC, C10X preamplifier, and M10X amplifier, as well as Shunyata’s latest Alpha X and Sigma X power management. Streaming was handled by Auralic’s Aries G2.2 and Vega G2.2, which delivered crystal-clear sound with exceptional transparency. Shunyata’s power conditioning provided a completely silent background, improving clarity and dynamics throughout the spectrum. Siltech’s Ruby Crown, Double Crown, and Legend cables linked everything together with pinpoint accuracy, while Rel’s Classic 99 subwoofers supplied bottom depth without muddying the midrange. The Dynaudio-Luxman coupling struck out as a seamless blend of power and grace, encapsulating the pinnacle of modern HiFi.

That’s all from Gyula’s KLIAV Show 2024 Report…stay tuned for his next adventures in Asia!

Check out more HiFi Show reports from HiFi PiG here

Gyula Weeber