PART TWO OF GYULA’S COVERAGE OF THE TAA TAIPEI 2024 HIFI SHOW

Join HiFi PiG’s Gyula as he guides you through floors 2 and 3 of the Grand Hotel Taipei, in the second part of his coverage of the TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show.

If you would like to read the first part; covering the main hall and floor 1, click here.

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TAA 2024 TAIPEI HIFI SHOW REPORT PART 2

ROOMS 201, 202, 203, 204, 名傑: KLIPSCH, WIIM, MUSEND, FUYUKI, HWA AUDIO, BESTVOX

Room 201 presented the Klipsch Flexus Core 200 Theatre System, therefore creating a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos experience. With its Epson EH-LS800 ultra-short-throw projector and soundbar, subwoofers, and satellite speakers, the setup demonstrated the high-quality cinematic experience possible even in small environments.

Wiim and Bestvox debuted the much awaited Wiim Ultra at Room 203. They are well-known for their accessibility and performance, making them an affordable but high-quality option for aspiring audiophiles.

Room 204 was dedicated to HWA Audio’s The Master Amp, a powerful headphone and power amplifier created specifically for headphone enthusiasts. In addition the system also included, the Master ONE DAC and Fuyuki cables.

ROOM 205, 207, 環球知音: LINN, DENON, MARANTZ, MCINTOSH, SONUS FABER

Denon’s flagship AVR-A1H surround amplifier headed Room 205’s superb 7.2.4 multi-channel system. Renowned for its unique 15.4 channel capacity, this beast of an amplifier fit perfectly with Sonus Faber’s recently introduced Sonetto G2 speakers. Inspired by Sonus Faber’s flagship Suprema series, the Sonetto G2 borrows technologies and enhanced internal cork chamber architecture to create an immersive and strong auditory experience that really grabbed the attention of visitors.

The other part of room 205 featured a more personal but equally stunning configuration focused on Sonus Faber and McIntosh. McIntosh’s C12000-AN preamplifier, two 75th-anniversary edition MC1.25KW-AN monoblock amplifiers, and Linn Selekt DSM serve as the source.

In room 207 the Linn 360 Exakt loudspeakers stole the show in their stunning “single malt” finish. Although presented as a static display, their presence was undeniable. The Linn 530 active speakers were controlled by the Linn Selekt DSM, making for a minimalist yet powerful system that left a lasting impression, especially after being optimized with Linn’s Space Optimisation technology.

ROOMS 206, 208, 210, 212, 214, 鈦孚: ROCKPORT TECHNOLOGIES, DYNAUDIO, T+A, AUDIO RESEARCH, INNUOS, AUDIOVECTOR

CIA High-end prepared five rooms with exquisite setups, and the first one I visited featured the Rockport Lynx speakers paired with the latest Audio Research Reference system. The LYNX speakers are equipped with beryllium tweeters, carbon fiber midrange, and bass drivers, all housed in a beautifully crafted, screw-free cabinet design to improve rigidity. Last year its big brother had a lasting impression on me, and have to say that this size got even closer to my heart. I was fortunate to meet Dave Gordon, who introduced the new flagship amplifiers, the 330M’s with KT170 tubes, along with the Reference 6 SE preamplifier. The digital source was expertly handled by Playback Design and the Innuos Statement series setup, all connected through Siltech cables, ensuring every nuance of the audio was flawlessly conveyed.

The next stop featured the new Dynaudio Contour Legacy speakers combined with Constellation Audio electronics. The Contour Legacy, a great addition to Dynaudio’s Heritage Collection, provided an immersive and precise soundstage in a very traditional, well-built structure. These exquisite speakers were powered by Constellation Audio’s Revelation Series, which included the Pictor preamplifier and Taurus stereo amplifier. The source component, the great Innuos Pulsar, was dedicated completely to streaming, while T+A’s DAC 200 handled the D/A conversion. The complete system was connected using Siltech cables.

Room 210 featured an excellent T+A configuration, with Solitaire S 530 speakers and the flexible R 2500 R integrated amplifier. The Solitaire S 530 speakers, which featured unusual oval midrange drivers and a stunning 85 cm Mag850 tweeter, provided precise sound with minimum room interaction. The side-firing woofers produced deep, controlled bass, ideal for complicated music.

The R 2500 R integrated amplifier combined preamp, DAC, and streaming features in a single box, providing 250 watts per channel at 4 ohms. This guaranteed that the speakers were driven precisely. T+A’s high-quality cables completed the setup, making the listening experience visually and musically stunning.

Room 212 had an excellent setup centred on the Audiovector Trapez Reimagined speakers, which are a modern take on the brand’s original Trapez design from 1979. These speakers have an SEC AMT tweeter, a three-way setup with a 12-inch paper cone woofer, and an isobaric design for improved bass performance. The electronics included the TotalDAC d1-biunity DAC, which is noted for its excellent precision and natural sound, along with the Audio Research Reference 80S amplifier, which delivers 70 watts per channel and can switch between triode and pentode modes. This system was enhanced with the Innuos ZENith Next-Gen server and PhoenixNET switch, which ensured a clean and precise digital signal flow. The room was deliberately built to highlight the best of modern high-end audio, with each component contributing to an immersive and refined listening experience.

ROOMS 209, 215 英大: JBL, ESOTERIC, REL AUDIOQUEST

Rooms 209 and 215 paid respect to JBL’s legacy, gaining respect from both young and experienced audiophiles. The L100, L82, and L52 speakers were the highlights of the JBL Classic series, which also included retro-styled electronics such as the TT350 turntable, SA550/SA750 integrated amplifiers, and CD350 CD player.

 The Studio Monitor series, notably the 4349 speakers, impressed with their strong, direct sound, which was powered by the Esoteric F-01 Class A amplifier and supplemented by REL subwoofers.

The rooms also included the flexible 4305P powered streaming speakers, which had numerous digital and analogue inputs. The LAIV Harmony DAC was a remarkable upgrade, with its R2R decoding and robust aluminium build producing great sound. These rooms were the ideal combination of JBL’s classic charm and modern innovation, providing something unique for all enthusiasts.

ROOMS 216, 220, 226, 236 瑩聲: PMC, CYRUS, AVM, INAKUSTIK, SPENDOR, NOTTINGHAM ANALOGUE STUDIO, VINCENT, AURA, ENTREQ

Rooms 216, 220, 226, and 236 showcased a selection of audio manufacturers, including PMC, Cyrus, AVM, and more,all delivering that quintessentially British sound—a sound so distinct, you half expect the speakers to offer you a cup of tea. Inakustik handled the cables and power conditioning, ensuring everything was as crisp as a BBC announcer’s enunciation, while Entreq’s grounding and energy transformation tech added a touch of Swedish magic to the mix.

I was particularly impressed with the active PMC twenty5 series, where the 24i model was in action, paired with AVM’s sophisticated CS5.3 all-in-one, serving as a network streamer. PMC has nailed it with these recent releases, offering a sound quality that rivals larger systems without requiring the space (or the hernia risk).

Another highlight was the Cyrus room, featuring their newly introduced TTP turntable. Designed with expertise from former Mark Levinson engineers, and paired with a Rega tonearm and Cyrus’s upgraded power supply, it delivered exceptional sound. The Spendor Classic 100 speakers, known here for their warm and authentic British sound, were a perfect match.

The following room focused on the more affordable end of audio, with the highly regarded PMC Prodigy 5 speakers, powered by a Vincent SV-500 amplifier and CD200 CD player, delivering impressive sound at a reasonable price point.

In the final room, a classic PMC setup was featured with the Twenty5 24i speakers, COR amplifier, Cyrus Signature Phono stage, Nottingham Horizon, and Zorin turntables. This room was also in partnership with 古蝶, a vinyl and CD store, and a wine importer offered an excellent selection of Hungarian wines from the famous Tokaj region, making it a wonderful space to enjoy both great sound and a relaxed atmosphere.

ROOM 218, 222 聿鑫: KANTO, FIIO

Kanto and Fiio demonstrated modern solutions for both general listeners and dedicated audiophiles. Kanto’s active speakers, including the ORA, YU, REN, and TUK models, were on demonstration, each with a unique offering to suit different tastes. The YU series is designed to be ideal for those who want warm vocals, whereas the REN’s HDMI ARC connection provides for simple integration with your TV setup. If you desire increased high-frequency clarity and a more natural listening experience, the TUK, with its AMT tweeters, is the perfect choice.

Fiio focused on personal audio. The R9, a versatile desktop audio player that may be considered the Swiss Army knife of audio setups, stole the show. This handsome equipment is capable of high-resolution music playback, streaming, a USB DAC, a headphone amp, a preamp, and a Bluetooth receiver, as well as an easy-to-use Android interface. It’s a desktop listening powerhouse that supports every form of headphone connection possible as well as HDMI video integration. Along with the R9, Fiio introduced the TT13, a sleek automatic turntable that celebrates the vinyl rebirth with built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio playback. It’s the perfect balance of vintage and modern convenience.

ROOM 219 惠樺: PIEGA, ORIOLE SOUND AUDIO

Oriole Sound Audio showcased their Kingdom flagship tube power amplifier, delivering an impressive 160W per channel, perfectly paired with the Swiss Piega Coax 811 speakers. The setup was further elevated with the Denafrips Terminator-Plus DAC and the Lyngdorf CD player, creating a truly high-end listening experience.

ROOM 223 巴洛克: FRANKO SERBIN, ESPRIT CABLE, GOLDBERG, EAM LAB, ELETROCOMPANIET, ROCKNA

The room featured a superb setup, including Franco Serblin’s latest design, the Goldberg bookshelf speakers, which were making their debut in Taiwan. The system was powered by Electrocompaniet’s new flagship AW800M (which HiFi PiG’s Editor Stu reviewed here), which delivered 300W per channel with exceptional control and detail. To ease the setup, they installed the Rockna Wavelight DAC with built-in volume control along with the Rockna Wavelight Server, which acted as the streaming source. The cables came from the French company Esprit Cables.

ROOM 227 華克: RAY, GOLDMUND, MYSTJ, MYTEK

Room 227 showcased the Taiwanese Ray Audio’s high-end setup and equipment capabilities. The system was built around Ray Audio’s No. 1 fully balanced preamp and TK170 mono tube amplifiers, which drove the Goldmund Tethys speakers with impressive smoothness. The MYTEK Brooklyn Bridge DAC handled the digital source, which was supplied from a NUC, ensuring convenience during digital listening. Ray Audio also showcased their skill in power management by displaying various sizes of their linear power supplies and isolation transformers. The configuration demonstrated that Ray Audio’s tube amplifiers could bring out the best in well-known high-end speakers such as the Goldmund Tethys.

ROOM 231 開閎: USHER, EVERSOLO

Usher went all out with their Grand Tower, a 180kg monstrosity standing two meters tall. These speakers are a masterclass in design and sound, including three separated enclosures per speaker and manufactured with their finest proprietary wood technology. To power this system, they used heavy artillery: the R-1.5 amplifier, which delivers 150W of pure Class A power per channel, and the P-307A MKII analogue preamp. A commanding setup from every aspects.

ROOM 234, 238 玻音先創: GAIT, KECES

Gait, a pioneering glass speaker maker, showcased their latest innovations in Rooms 234 and 238. One example was a prototype of a tiny speaker with high sound quality and impressive bass presence.

In the neighbouring room, they combined their passive Alala bookshelf speaker with the renowned Keces S300+ power amplifier and S4 preamplifier to produce an outstanding system. I like the ability to compare listings with their active speaker version.

ROOM 235, 335 卡本特: AMPHION, ORPHEUS, AQUA, ARCAM, MARK LEVINSON, VIENNA ACOUSTICS, DESCARTES

Room 235 had a collection of Amphion speakers, sometimes known as the “Sound of Finland.” Three models were on display, each with Amphion’s distinctive thin, modern form that fits easily into any contemporary living environment. The flagship Amphion Krypton 3, a three-way design with a unique side-mounted 10-inch aluminium woofer capable of handling frequencies lower than 160Hz, stole the show. Along with it were the Amphion Argon7LS, a mid-sized floor-standing speaker ideal for most household settings, and the Helium520, recognised for its young attitude and varied colour options, accentuated by a fun green grille.

Amplification was provided by the Orpheus Absolute integrated amplifier, and they used the Arcam ST60 streamer to easily provide high-resolution Tidal tracks.

Room 335 featured a refined audio configuration centred on the Vienna Acoustics Beethoven Baby Grand Reference speakers and powered by the exquisite Jadis Orchestra 40th Anniversary Amplifier. This combination produced a rich, detailed sound, emphasising the musicality of Vienna Acoustics’ design in conjunction with the warm, dynamic character of Jadis amplifiers. The room also featured Vienna Acoustics Haydn Grand bookshelf speakers paired with the Jadis Diapason integrated amplifier, which provided an intimate yet powerful listening experience. The Auralic Altair G2.2 network player oversaw the digital side, which was connected via a Melco network switch and server and powered by a clean Isotek Aquarius power conditioner, ensuring optimal performance and clarity across the system.

ROOM 239 正成: MACKIE, PRESONUS, APOGEE, GENELEC

Room 239 was stocked with affordable pro audio equipment. The PreSonus Eris series, Apogee interfaces, and Mackie CR series were on display, available for customers to demo whatever they were interested in.

ROOM 240, 246, 256 極品: ESTELON, DALI, PRIMALUNA, AURENDER

Rooms 240, 246, and 256 had some stunning and acoustically remarkable setups. The elegant Estelon YB MK II speakers, with their unusual curved cabinets and side-mounted woofers, produced an impressive soundstage, demonstrating that form can follow function. Paired with Aurender’s N20 for streaming and the Playback Designs MPD-6 DAC, the system was a visual and auditory delight.

Dali’s Rubikore series had a lasting impression, particularly the Rubikore 8 floor-standing speakers. These speakers performed well in both stereo and surround sound settings, thanks to their slightly warm and transparent tone. Paired with the Aurender AP20 all-in-one, it was a great and compact high-end setup.

Finally, the Primaluna EVO 300 integrated amplifier effortlessly drove the Harbeth P3ESR XD speakers, exposing the timeless appeal of the traditional British sound. The mix of traditional workmanship and current audio technology made this setup an audiophile’s dream, providing deep bass, smooth mids, and clear highs in a small and elegant, classic-looking wooden chassis.

ROOM 243 山葉: YAMAHA

Yamaha’s room showcased the iconic manufacturer’s latest and best products. The C-5000 preamp and M-5000 power amp, along with the flagship NS-5000 speakers, exemplified Yamaha’s commitment to combining cutting-edge innovation with timeless design.

The room also had the R-N2000A and NS-800A speakers, demonstrating Yamaha’s flexible R-N series. This arrangement emphasised Yamaha’s dedication to provide high-quality audio solutions at a variety of price points, whether for a discerning audiophile or someone wishing to improve their everyday listening experience.

Aside from stereo systems, Yamaha took use of the opportunity to highlight their home cinema amplifiers and the new R-N series of electronics, providing a thorough overview of their whole product offering.

ROOM 247, 249 大器: AESTHETIX, YG, ZENSATI, SOULNOTE, REL

In the first room, YG’s Sonia 3.2 speakers were combined with an Aesthetix Romulus CD player and DAC, a Calypso Eclipse preamp, and Atlas Eclipse mono amplifiers. The network source was the HZ Project’s HzCore Roon server. The ZenSati #X cables were laid out in a visually striking manner, complementing the ever-impressive sound.

The second room featured GoldenEar T66 speakers powered by the Aesthetix Mimas integrated amp, with the Romulus D/A converter and CD player handling the source responsibilities. The HzCore Roon server makes another appearance. Combined with REL T9X subwoofers, AudioQuest cables, and a Niagara power conditioner.

Finally, the third room showcased YG’s Hailey speakers powered by SoulNote’s 3 Series electronics, including the M-3 mono amplifiers, P-3 preamp, D-3 D/A converter, X-3 clock, and Z-3 network player. Telos took care of power conditioning and grounding, ensuring that the system performed at its best. And indeed, it sounded great!

ROOM 248, 250 台笙: FYNE, ACCUPHASE

In Rooms 248 and 250, Fyne Audio teamed up with Accuphase to present three distinct systems, each offering its own unique flavour of high-fidelity sound.

The first system featured the Accuphase E-380 integrated amplifier paired with the DP-450 CD player, driving Fyne Audio’s Vintage 5 and F1-8 speakers. A classic setup that highlighted the synergy between Accuphase’s precision and Fyne’s rich, full-bodied sound.

The second system took things up a notch with the Accuphase P-4600 power amp and C-2300 preamp, fed by the DP-770 CD player. The system also included the 440 Audio G2 Art turntable, complete with an Accuphase cartridge, all powering the new Fyne F1-8S speakers. Power conditioning was handled by the PS-1230, ensuring that every note was delivered with clarity and authority.

The third system showcased the Accuphase E-700 Class A integrated amplifier and DP-570 CD player, paired with Fyne’s Supertrax tweeter and Classic 8SM speakers. This setup offered a more intimate listening experience, focusing on nuanced detail and smooth, effortless sound.

ROOM 252 夢幻: AUDIODREAM, MAGNAT

A local manufacturer offers a range of tube amplifiers at affordable prices.

253 瑞澤: HITON

This booth was a DIY enthusiast’s dream, a treasure trove for those who enjoy tinkering with audio equipment at home. The Enigma M-kit bookshelf speaker, SFX-101 Class A SET amplifier, E-2 Class AB power amplifier kit, and EP-1 preamplifier kit were among the options showcased. These kits provide an excellent opportunity to assemble your full audio chain yourself, combining hands-on workmanship with high-quality sound.

ROOM 301, 302 瑋秦: AKUSTIK LABOR, SILENT ANGEL, VOLUMIO,

Akustic Labor exhibited a stellar lineup, including Gauder Akustik’s Arcona 200 speakers paired with their THOR mono power blocks, as well as the newly announced tube preamp and the Silent Angel Munich MU music streamer.

Next door, in a space shared with the highly regarded record company Welchen Music, they displayed their new bookshelf speakers driven by the Artemis amplifier, displaying a smaller but equally impressive arrangement.

ROOM 303 尼威特: NEOTECH

Neotech, a regular fixture at the show, once again impressed with their diverse cable display.

ROOM 304 金鈦極: OBRAVO

Obravo headphones were once again popular among audiophiles. They had a well run listening room where multiple enthusiasts had the opportunity to get familiar with their offerings.

ROOM 305, 307, 309 普立視: DIVA, GOLDMUND, KAISER, ORPHEUS, AQUA ACOUSTIC, LIVE CABLE

With their wireless active Theia speakers, Mimesis 16.8 processor, and Eidos Reference CD player, supported by an Aurender music server and Diva EX-7 network switch, Goldmund had a commanding setup.

The second setup featured the refined Kaiser speakers, driven by Orpheus Heritage series power and preamps, also supported by an Aurender streamer and Live Cable cabling. The area also featured outstanding components such as the Telos 690 and 800 amplifiers and the compact yet powerful Kaiser Kawero! Furioso Mini speakers,

ROOM 306 音悅: FINAL, TEAC, IFI, DCS

Room 306 was a quiet, well-organised space for headphone listening. There were multiple stations available, which allowed for a focused, immersive experience. I had the opportunity to spend some time with the D7000 headphones, which stood out to me due to their comfortable fabric cover and superior sound quality. Paired with the TEAC setup, this combination produced one of the best listening experiences, with a clear and rich sound that made this stop as a personal favourite.

ROOM 308, 354, 愷銳: PRIMARE, PERLISTEN, TORUS,

Room 308 had a cool, Swedish beachfront vibe that added a stylish touch to the experience. The demo featured Perlisten’s new A4T speakers, known for delivering a wide and deep soundstage. Paired with Primare’s A35.2 power amplifier, PRE35 Prisma preamp, and CD15 Prisma, along with the Torus RM Power conditioner, the setup offered a sound that was both powerful and nuanced. The A4T speakers stood out for their reasonable footprint and versatility, making them a great fit for different room types, even when placed close to walls.

In Room 354, they showcased a Primare i25 integrated amp and CD15 playing through Perlisten 4b bookshelf speakers, but the real focus was on introducing Torus power conditioner products, which took center stage.

ROOM 310, 312 迎家: WHARFEDALE, NAD, LUXMAN, MYSTJ, TANNOY

Room 310 featured brands from the IAG Group, including the Wharfedale Elysian 4 and Dovedale speakers. The combination with NAD’s amplification, particularly the M66 power and M23 preamp, provided a clean, powerful sound with excellent detail. The room was well-organized, and the Taiwanese Mystj rack added a nice touch to the setup. The sound was balanced and engaging.

The Tannoy GR speakers, powered by the Luxman M-10X and controlled via the C-10X, produced a detailed and brilliant sound. The D-10X SACD/CD player and the NT-07 streamer provided effortless high-resolution playback.

ROOM 314 琺韶: FASOUND

Fasound, a Taiwanese company, exhibited their unique devices, which have huge touch screens on the front for seamless interaction. Their all-in-one solutions and streaming DACs offered exceptional functionality, and when combined with the Usher Mini Dancer One speakers, they produced impressive sound quality. The combination of innovative technology, high-fidelity audio, and an affordable prices makes it a good choice for even the most discerning audiophiles. 

ROOM 315 仲敏: FURUTECH

ROOM 316, 351, 仩益: LINEAR ACOUSTICS, ELAC, E.A.T. LINDEMANN, EAR YOSHINO,

Room 316 was a showcase of power and precision, where the Linear Acoustics LA400M mono power amplifiers, paired with the LA V5 Preamplifier, drove the Elac Concerto speakers to deliver a BIG, well-controlled sound. The setup was complemented by the E.A.T. Fortissimo turntable and EAR 324 phono stage, creating a warm, detailed analogue experience, while the Lindemann Book Streamer added modern convenience to this audiophile-grade system.

Room 351 continued to impress with the Elac VELA BS404 bookshelf speakers driven by the Linear Acoustics LA V120 Integrated Amplifier, showcasing just how versatile and impactful Linear Acoustics can be. The Lindemann Music Book source added to the seamless performance.

ROOM 318 名振: AUDIO NOTE, LARSEN

Room 318 featured a setup that included the Audio Note AX-One speakers, paired with the lZero integrated amplifier, Level Zero Red Book CD Player, and TT-One Deluxe turntable. The Larsen 6 speakers also made an appearance in this room.

ROOM 319 皇佳: BOWERS&WILKINS, CAMBRIDGE AUDIO, AUDIOQUEST

The room featured the B&W 800S3 speakers, paired with Cambridge Audio’s Edge series electronics and connected through AudioQuest cables.

ROOM 320, 322 韶韻: KINKI STUDIO, PYLON, Q ACOUSTICS, CHOCO SOUND, VV AUDIOLAB, ROCKNA, MSB, LUMIN

Two rooms, two impressive setups. Room 320 showcased the Polish Pylon Jasper 25 MKII speakers, driven by Kinki Studio’s Ex-B7 power amplifiers and EX-P27 12th preamplifier, with the MSB The Premier DAC and VV Audiolab Vanadium music server completing the chain. In Room 322, the Q Acoustics Concept 50 speakers took center stage, paired with the Choco Sound EMei compact integrated amplifier, Rockna Wavelight DAC, and Lumin P1 mini, offering a well-rounded and engaging listening experience.

ROOM 323 鼎上: CHORD, MONITOR AUDIO

Room 323 featured Monitor Audio’s Hyphn speakers, distinguished by their futuristic design and advanced M-Array driver configuration, which promises a highly detailed sound. The ultra-rigid cabinet, crafted from thermoformed acrylic stone, enhances clarity by minimizing unwanted vibrations. Paired with Chord Electronics’ Ultima series amplifiers, this setup wasn’t just about powerful sound but also about showcasing the latest in audio technology and design.

ROOM 324, 326, 328 雅士: MONITOR ACOUSTICS, GOLDNOTE, PLINIUS, LEEMA,

Rooms 324 and 328 showcased the perfect combination of modern style and cutting-edge acoustic technology. Room 324 included KEF R5 Meta speakers, as well as high-quality electronics such as the Goldnote PSU 10 Evo, DS-10 Evo DAC, Leema Hydra II power amplifier, and Plinius Kaitaki preamplifier. Audioquest provided the cables for the setup

Room 326, featuring Aerix lifestyle audio, offered a more accessible approach, focusing on sleek, user-friendly designs that blend high-quality audio with modern aesthetics, making it perfect for contemporary living spaces.

In room 328, Goldnote’s A6 Evo speakers took centre stage, paired with the IS-1000 MkII integrated all-in-one amplifier and the Valore 425 Plus turntable equipped with the Goldnote Donatello cartridge. This setup, further enhanced by the PH-10 phono amp and PSU-5, delivered a rich and immersive analogue sound, with Monitor Acoustics’ power distribution ensuring clean and stable power throughout.

ROOM 327 美德聲: STEIN MUSIC, FTA, ORIGIN LIVE

In the Stein Music room, the High Line Bobby L. Signature speakers were the focal point, teamed with the Origin Live Sovereign MK4 turntable and Enterprise MK4 tonearm for an excellent analogue experience. The Stateline Phono 2 offered precise phono amplification, while the KR Audio P135 preamp and Kronzilla mono amplifiers delivered ample power to the system. On the digital side, the ZeroUno Preamp worked effortlessly with an Eversolo streamer, while the Stein Music H2 room acoustic system ensured that every note was perfectly balanced, resulting in a deeply immersive and richly detailed audioscape.

ROOM 329 天樂: DIVINI AUDIO, DA&T,

Room 329 was a showcase of the Taiwanese brand Divini Audio’s high-end audio expertise, with a particular focus on their Reference 19 speakers and the new LPS-380 power supply. The Divini Audio Reference 19 speakers impressed with their refined sound signature. These speakers were supported by the unique DA&T K433 integrated bi-amplifier, which offers a groundbreaking approach to amplification. The K433 allows users to switch between Class A and Class D amplification within the same amplifier, or to use both simultaneously for different frequency ranges, offering unparalleled flexibility and customisation.

Divini Audio, known for their expertise in cables, also introduced their new LPS-380 two-channel DC linear power supply. This power supply, like their cables, not only delivers excellent sound quality but also boasts an aesthetically pleasing design.

ROOM 330 禮聲: MARVALVE

ROOM 331 神韻: YUKI, FISCHER & FISCHER, ACOUSTIC ARTS, WESTERN ELECTRIC, PHASEMATION, DEGRITTER, GRESIM, DEVORE

Room 331 provided a polished mix of classic and contemporary high-fidelity sounds. The setup included DeVore O/96 and Fischer & Fischer Klein speakers, which are noted for producing powerful and genuine sound. The system was powered by a Western Electric 91E integrated amplifier, which featured a legendary tube sound. The Reimyo DAP 999EX DAC and CDT 777 transport handled digital sources, resulting in detailed and accurate playback.

On the analogue side, the Yuki AP-01 turntable and Phasemation EA-1200 phono amplifier (mono setup with independent power supply) produced a warm and engaging vinyl experience. The Acoustic Arts Preamp III and Power II amplifiers completed the system, providing enough power and control across the frequency range.

ROOM 332, 336, 340 方舟: AVID, MOFI, PLIXIR, TIGLON, AUDION, ANTIPODES, MERASON, GOLDRING, AMG, ZYX, TOTEM

Ark Audio delivered exceptional results across three rooms, showcasing meticulous planning and incredible sound. Across all rooms, the Plixir power conditioning setups from Singapore, Japanese Tiglon audio racks, and the digital source chain featuring the Antipodes K50 music server from New Zealand paired with the Swiss Merason DAC 1 MKII provided a consistent foundation.

Room 332 presented a blend of British and Canadian audio craftsmanship. The Audion 1.0 preamp was paired with the Silver Night 300B single-ended Class A tube amplifier, delivering 7W per channel while effortlessly driving the Totem Metal V2 floorstanding speakers. The analog setup included the German AMG Giro turntable, complemented by the Avid Pellere Phono stage from the UK, offering a warm and engaging sound.

Room 336 centered around MoFi’s SourcePoint 888 speakers from the USA, driven by the AVID Integra integrated amplifier from the UK. The SourcePoint 888, with its 8-inch coaxial driver, was complemented by MoFi’s Master Deck turntable and Master Phonostage, ensuring a top-notch analog experience.

Room 340 showcased AVID’s high-end offerings, featuring the Sigsum flagship integrated amplifier driving the EVO3 speakers. The analog setup was anchored by the AVID Dark Acutus Iron turntable and Pulsare II phono stage, delivering a rich tonal balance with detailed sound. The digital side was supported by the Antipodes Oladra music server, with the Merason DAC continuing to establish itself as a reference for Ark Audio.

ROOM 338 雅鈦: AECO

Room 338 introduced AECO, a prominent Taiwanese manufacturer known for its expertise in crafting high-quality connectors. Based in Tainan, AECO specializes in producing precision terminals for OEM and under their brand, emphasizing superior materials and innovative design.

ROOM 339 進音坊: BRODMANN, OCTAVE, MIT, TRIANGLE, AIM, PASSLAB

Room 339, presented by 進音坊, showcased a meticulously curated blend of European and American audio excellence. The centerpiece was the Brodmann VC7 speakers, renowned for their refined craftsmanship and exceptional sound quality. Powering these speakers were the Octave HP 700 SE preamplifier and MRE330 Mono power amplifiers, delivering ample power and precise control. The system was further elevated by MIT’s Oracle MA-X speaker cables. On the digital side, the setup featured the acclaimed Chord Dave DAC and M-Scaler, seamlessly paired with a Lumin network player and dCS Puccini CD player, offering a versatile and high-fidelity digital playback experience.

ROOM 341, 343 谷津: DA&T

Room 341 and 343 featured a true world premiere from DA&T, showcasing their innovative multi-channel audio systems that don’t rely on traditional AV receivers. The highlight was the M-8P processor, expertly designed for a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos setup, capable of managing and distributing 8-channel with precision. This processor, when paired with the active DSP-enabled XI-51 and XI-82 speakers, offered a seamless and immersive audio experience, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their Dolby Atmos music or movie playback.

In room 343, DA&T also introduced more budget-friendly alternatives, the I-8Pro and I-8P, which deliver similar capabilities at a lower price point. These models demonstrate DA&T’s commitment to making high-quality, versatile audio solutions accessible to a broader audience, that can further help to build bridges between stereo music listening and home theater.

ROOM 342 恰順: VIFA

ROOM 346, 348 勝旗: ESOTERIC, TANNOY

Another room with Esoteric equipment, this time matching the Tannoys.

In rooms 346 and 348, the showcase was a perfect blend of Esoteric’s cutting-edge electronics and Tannoy’s iconic loudspeakers. The centerpiece was the Tannoy SGM15, a revered model known for its detailed and musical sound. These speakers were driven by Esoteric’s Grandioso series, including the K-01XD SACD player, G-01XD master clock generator, T1 turntable, and the E02 phono amplifier, delivering a top-tier analog experience. The setup was further refined with Esoteric’s F01 integrated amplifier and the PS-01F power supply.

In the adjacent room, the exceptional combination of Vivid Audio’s Giya G3 speakers and Dartzeel’s well-known electronics took centre stage. The NHB-18NS preamplifier and NHB-108II power amplifier from Dartzeel powered the Giya G3 speakers, which are well-known for their distinctive design and exceptional clarity. This combination produced an incredibly vibrant and transparent sound. This arrangement was enhanced by Esoteric’s N-01XD SE network player, K-01XD SE SACD player, and G-01XD master clock generator.

ROOM 347 米地摩爾: NEUMANN

Pro Audio room, where they created an Atmos environment with only active speakers and a processor.

ROOM 349, 356 寬穎: KII, TRINNOV, MELCO

Room 349 demonstrated a high-end arrangement with Kii Audio active speakers. It included the Kii Audio Three active speakers, and the Trinnov Amethyst, a potent preamplifier and room optimiser that brings out the best in the listening experience with its sophisticated calibration features. As the digital source, the Melco N1Z music library was used, which provides high-resolution playing from data storage or streaming.

ROOM 350 傑富: DCS, MAGICO, TAIKO, SOULUTION

In Room 350, 傑富音響 showcased a well curated system centered around the Magico M2 speakers. This high-end setup was driven by the Soulution 727 preamplifier and 511 power amplifier, delivering powerful yet nuanced sound. The system was housed on Critical Mass Systems (CMS) racks.

Inside the inner room, the focus was on the latest flagship DAC series from dCS, the Varèse. This system, consisting of five components including a user interface, master clock, two monoblock DACs, and a central control core, represents the pinnacle of digital audio. The Varèse system uses the new ACTUS transmission interface to synchronize the entire setup. Each monoblock DAC employs the same Ring DAC architecture found in the Vivaldi series but in a differential monoblock configuration, promising performance that exceeds even the Vivaldi DAC. (Read more about it here)

ROOM 352 全真: ALLMUSIC

A local tube amplifier specialist, with a wide range of design, very competitive price point and a great sound with the ATC speakers setup in the room. They had an interesting kit, called HD-1 a hard drive power conditioner was employed to prevent computer noise from affecting the HDD’s music signals, resulting in a purer, cleaner sound.

You can read the first part of Gyula’s coverage here…his final part covering floors 4 and 5 will follow soon.

Gyula Weeber