HERE IS GYULA’S FINAL REPORT FROM THE TAA 2024 TAIPEI HIFI SHOW IN TAIWAN

Gyula takes you through the final part of his report covering floors 4 and 5 of the Grand Hotel, Taipei.

By now I am sure you will have read Gyula’s reports TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show Report Part 1 and TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show Report Part 2 now here is the final instalment covering floors 4 and 5 of the show….

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ROOM 401, 402 鴻盛:  MPSOURCE, FATIWEE, MPS, MOGAMI, JADIS, MUTEC, SPL, AKG, JBL, EAHIBRID

Rooms 401 and 402 featured a large array of cables from manufacturers such as MPS, Mogami, and Fatiwee, catering to a wide range of budgets and aural requirements. The EAhibrid Ultra Star Ground system was the focus of attention in Room 402. This setup included the integrated Cyber Filter and a battery-operated linear power supply the PureDC B1. The demo showcased the impact of a Ultra Star Ground setup, utilizing linear power supplies across all components and employing three Cyber Filters to enhance jitter free audio.

ROOM 403, 405 百鳴: BASEL ACOUSTICS, LYNGDORF, 3DLAB, JMR, AUDIOMAT

Room 403 showcased some unique audio brands, providing a great opportunity to discover new, exciting products. The room had a contemporary Scandinavian style design, with a setup that would fit perfectly into any contemporary atmosphere. The Basel Audio Concept V01 speakers, with floating suspension drivers produced a balanced and comforting sound. The electronics were provided by the French company 3Dlab Audio, their Nano Network Player and Nano Amplifier. Despite its miniature size, this arrangement was a powerhouse, producing 400W of stereo power or a massive 1600W in mono. The network streamer stood out as well because of its powerful networking features, built-in high-resolution DAC, and LEEDH volume control.

The other room in 403, had a system built around a similar concept, fitting to contemporary homes.  Including the Lyngdorf’s MP-60 2.1 surround sound processor, MXA-8400 amplifier, and lifestyle-friendly Cue-100 speakers.

Room 405 stood out as one of the best-sounding setups at the show, showcasing an impressive lineup of French brands. The room featured the JMR Orfeo Grande speakers, which, with their unique design, might not appeal to everyone. However, in the metallic gray finish, they exuded a modern, exotic vibe that resonated with the room’s overall aesthetic. The system was anchored by the 3Dlab Transport Signature, responsible for streaming duties, ensuring that every note was delivered with precision.

The heart of the system was the Audiomat Solfége Reference 20 integrated amplifier. Despite its modern, solid-state appearance, this amplifier is an updated version of a classic from the early 2000s and features four KT88 tubes, merging the best of both worlds—classic tube warmth with contemporary design. Complementing the amplifier was the Maestro 3 DAC, a high-resolution, low-jitter unit known for its remarkable build quality and impeccable sound reproduction.

This room was not just about the gear—it was the atmosphere. The careful music selection and the inviting interior made the space so comfortable and relaxing that it was hard to leave. The combination of sound quality and ambience created an unforgettable experience.

ROOM 406, 434 仩益: LINEAR ACOUSTICS, ELAC, E.A.T. LINDEMANN, EAR YOSHINO

In Room 406, the Elac Concentro S 509.2 speakers were paired with the stunning EAR Yoshino V12, which resembled a vintage sports car engine, both in looks and in its ability to deliver a refined, powerful sound.

There other showroom Room 434, the Elac Concentro M speakers were driven by the EAR 861 Power Amplifier and EAR 834 Preamp, with the Lindemann Source again proving to be a perfect match. Across all rooms, the Linear Acoustics amplifiers demonstrated their prowess, offering not just power, but exceptional control and finesse, making each setup a standout.

ROOM 408 慧康: KECES, HORNS, J.SIKORA, DS AUDIO

Room 408 was another highlight of the show, especially those familiar with Keces Audio’s reputation for crafting top-notch power conditioners. The centrepiece was a J.Sikora Standard Turntable with a KV12 arm and DS Audio Master 3 cartridge, paired with the DS Audio Master 3 phono stage, setting a high standard for vinyl playback. The Keces P28 ultra-low noise power supply made sure that the analogue setup had no electronic noise throughout.

Keces took the lead with their own electronics supporting the system. The S300+ power amplifiers in mono setup, powering the hORNS No.110 speakers. The S4 preamp with a separate power supply, and the S3 DAC and new EBravo streamer took care of the digital end. This side enjoyed the protection and conditioning from the IQRP-3600 Power conditioner. David Laboga cables ensured the signal was as pristine as possible, tying the entire system together with a clear, dynamic sound.

On display, they had the Luphonic Model H2 turntable, Sikora Initial turntable, and a wide selection of Keces products, demonstrating their commitment to providing high-quality, reliable audio solutions. The room had an air of enthusiasm, with a vibe that was both welcoming and engaging—a perfect blend of great sound and passionate people.

ROOM 409 方浪: AVALON, WEISS, VITUS, VIARD, GRIMM

Ah, the room that was my absolute favourite last year. It seems they decided to stick with the winning formula, bringing back the exact same setup: the Vitus SIA-030 Integrated amplifier, Avalon PM 1.2 speakers, and the GRIMM MU1 streaming via ROON, all connected with Viard cabling.

And you know what? I can’t blame them. Why mess with perfection? This system was a hit before, and if it ain’t broke, why fix it?

ROOM 410 台音: VESTLYD, MAGNETAR, VAN MEDEVOORT, CARVER LAB. REGA

A welcome addition to the show, introducing some exciting new brands, like Vestlyd type V15C speakers, the Van Medevoort MA360 class A integrated amplifiers and Carver Lab cables. They also had some Rega products, a brand which I had been missing from the local scene for quite some time!   The configuration produced an appealing sound, and the seductive appearance of the Vestlyd speakers piqued the interest of many visitors!

ROOM 412, 416 宙宣: SENNHEISER

Sennheiser made a strong presence at the show with two dedicated rooms. One room catered to headphone enthusiasts, showcasing their full lineup, allowing visitors to experience the signature Sennheiser sound across various models.

In the other room, they focus attention on the Ambeo Plus soundbar—a truly impressive piece of technology. The only soundbar I would like to live with.

ROOM 415 慕特: ART LOUDSPEAKERS, NAD, BRICASTI, PRIMALUNA, AUDITE ACOUSTICS, DYNAMIC CABLES

This room featured a well-curated setup that balanced technical excellence with a warm, inviting sound. The Bricasti M1 Dual Mono DAC was the standout performer, delivering crisp and detailed digital conversion. Paired with the PrimaLuna Evo 400 integrated amplifier, known for its tube-driven warmth, and the Art Loudspeaker Expression 9, the system provided a lively and engaging audio experience. The NAD streamer tied everything together. The team behind this setup brought a friendly and approachable vibe to the room, making it a pleasure to visit.

ROOM 418 名揚: MAG AUDIO

The main focus of the room, which featured all in-house products, was on their passive preamplifiers and tube amplifiers and volume controller parts. 

ROOM 419 飛揚: LA AUDIO

The LA Audio room was packed with an impressive variety of products, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers and tube amplifiers. The setup this year centred around the A60-R integrated amplifier, driving the A-F801 high-fidelity speakers, with the Pro-2 CD player handling the source. While the room was filled with top-notch equipment, the music played didn’t quite align with my taste, which made it a bit challenging to fully assess the system’s performance.

ROOM 420 熊快樂: SFORZATO, ALBEDO, SWISSCABLE, CRYSTALCABLE, AUDIONET

In a room dedicated to precision and elegance, the Crystal Cable Minissimo Forte speakers were at the heart of an exceptionally well-crafted system. Paired with Audionet’s PRE G2 preamplifier and MAX mono power amplifiers, the setup was designed to bring out the finest details in music. Sforzato’s PMC-07EX and DSP-07EX units, which are renowned for their high-resolution capabilities, handled the digital front-end. Supporting this meticulously curated setup were Swisscable power cables and CrystalCable signal cables, ensuring that the entire system worked in harmony to deliver a refined and engaging listening experience.

ROOM 422 類比藝術: FALCON, OBIT, A.A.LABORATORY

Analog Artist Laboratory presented their 204 integrated amplifier, a retro-inspired unit with a built-in phono stage, tone control, and 8W of power. Alongside this, Obit showcased their locally crafted vibration management solutions, emphasizing the importance of minimizing unwanted resonances for better audio performance. The system was paired with Falcon Audio speakers, creating a setup that balanced vintage aesthetics with high-quality sound.

ROOM 423 品嘉: BENCHMARK, PROAC, DIVINI AUDIO

 The system featured the highly regarded Benchmark HPA4 preamp, Benchmark DAC3 for digital conversion, and Benchmark AHB2 amplifiers in mono configuration, powering the ProAc K6 Signature speakers. Divini Audio cables and the PS Audio power conditioner handled the cabling, ensuring stable and clean power delivery. The source chain included Melco S100/2 switches, Auralic Aries G2.2 network transport, and the Sirius G2.1 upsampling processor, all connected to a Roon nucleus. The room also made use of Divini Audio’s linear power supply, showcasing the brand’s commitment to high-quality sound. The MYSTJ stands were once again present, further enhancing the overall performance of the system.

ROOM 424 逸聲: PS AUDIO, MATRIX AUDIO

Room 424 was a highlight of the show, introducing the much-discussed PS Audio Aspen FR20 speakers. These were paired with the impressive Matrix Audio MA-1 power amplifiers in a dual mono configuration, alongside the MP-1 preamplifier and MS-1 network streamer. The analogue source in this setup was the Bergmann Modi turntable, featuring the Thor linear tracking air-bearing tonearm.

Power management was handled by the Stromtank Quantum S2500 battery power supply, ensuring a clean and stable energy source for all the components. Additionally, the room featured the full lineup from Ferrum, the latest Auralic S1 series, and offerings from the Korean brand Waversa Audio, adding even more layers of interest and versatility to the experience.

ROOM 431 茂凱: MO AUDIO

MO Audio returned with a similar setup to last year, featuring their flagship speakers and amplifier, which provided excellent sound quality. The highlight this year was the introduction of the MO100E headphone amplifier, which stands out due to its battery operation, allowing for over 14 hours of continuous playback. This addition showcases MO Audio’s continued innovation and dedication to high-performance audio.

ROOM 432, 436 愛爾法: MOON, FOCAL, NORDOST, LUMIN

Room 436 introduced Moon’s flagship North range, which includes the 861 preamplifier and 891 power amplifier combo that drove the powerful Focal Sopra N3 speakers. The system was further enhanced by the addition of Nordost QB10 power conditioners and Nordost Odin Gold cables.

In Room 432, a B&W 804 D4 speaker configuration was on show powered by the Moon 641 integrated amplifier and a Lumin P1 digital source, providing a refined and unified sound experience.

ROOM 435 久樂: TIEN AUDIO

The Elac Solano BS283 speakers were paired with the Linear Acoustics LA-V120 integrated amplifier, delivering a balanced and detailed sound. The source was Tien Audio’s TT3 turntable, featuring the Viroa Plus tonearm and a HANA Umami Blue cartridge. The analogue setup was further enhanced by the EAR Yoshino Phonobox and MC4 step-up box, ensuring a rich and engaging listening experience. As always, Tien Audio’s setup did not disappoint, showcasing their expertise in analogue sound.

In addition to their impressive audio setup, Tien Audio introduced a new vinyl flattener solution. This simple yet effective device utilizes vacuum pressure and precise temperature control to achieve optimal results, ensuring that warped records can be restored to their original flatness. The introduction of this tool highlights Tien Audio’s continued dedication to improving the vinyl listening experience, making it a must-see for any vinyl enthusiast.

ROOM 438 尚馬: PROJECT, TONE FACTORY

Pro-Ject has finally arrived in Taiwan, injecting new energy into the local audio scene. The new distributor is working hard to bring this popular European brand, recognised for its high-quality turntables, to Taiwanese audiophiles. At this event, they featured one of Pro-Ject’s sibling brands, TONE Factory, which made an exciting impression with its new Phono Set L. This setup utilised floorstanding speakers that had a remarkably compact footprint while producing an engaging and dramatic sound. The Phono Set L’s vibrant colour options add a youthful and modern touch, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enter the world of high-quality audio with a stylish and compact system. An ideal initial setup for novices to the hobby.

ROOM 439 日日升: TRACER

Tracer, a Taiwanese producer known for its CNC expertise, has continued to excite with their latest offerings. This year, they exhibited the TS-10 integrated amplifier, which produces 70W of power, together with the newly released TS-1A301 floorstanding speakers. Both devices demonstrated their commitment to precision and quality, with the amplifiers and speakers having finely machined aluminium shells. They also demonstrated a prototype of their enormous power conditioner, hinting at future advancements.

ROOM 440, 446, 456 音寶: NAIM, FOCAL, NORDOST

In the show, Focal and Naim collaborated in three different setups, each designed to showcase the synergy between Focal’s speakers and Naim’s electronics.

Room 456 featured the Focal Aria Evo X No.2 speakers, paired with Naim’s Unitistar and Atom all-in-one systems. This room also had a unique twist with a karaoke setup along the side wall, adding an element of fun and interactivity to the otherwise high-end audio experience.

Room 446 displayed the Focal Sopra N2 speakers, driven by the Naim Uniti Nova PE, a powerful yet compact system designed for serious audiophiles seeking high-quality sound in a sleek package.

Room 440 took things up a notch with the Focal Scala Utopia Evo speakers, driven by Naim’s top-of-the-line NSC222 streaming preamplifier, NPX300 power supply, and NAP350 power amplifier. This setup was all about delivering the ultimate in performance, with a soundstage and clarity that are hard to beat.

ROOM 443 音譜利: YPL

At the show, a well-known Taiwanese audio producer and distributor YPL unveiled their new TP-1 turntable, which made quite an impression. The TP-1 is a precisely designed belt-driven turntable with unique features such as Clearaudio’s ceramic-magnetic bearings, a large 4.5 kilogramme, 40mm thick aluminium platter, and a separate synchronous motor with precise speed control. The turntable has a 12″ carbon tonearm and supports dual-arm setup.

They also showed this turntable alongside their own YPL HN-600 speakers and the T-5 Pro tube integrated amplifier, which delivers 48 W of ultra-linear class-A power via balanced and RCA inputs.

ROOM 445 鹿港: LU KANG AUDIO

This year, Lu Kang Audio continued to create an amazing audio experience, building on their reputation for combining compact speaker designs with powerful, high-end electronics. This year’s configuration used Spoey 200 bookshelf speakers teamed with the formidable Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 800.2 amplifier, resulting in a powerful and dynamic sound. The digital front end was extremely advanced, with the Metronome Le Player 4, Le Dac 2, and Le Streamer providing smooth and high-quality playback. The system was also enhanced with the Mutech MC3+ USB interface, the Ref10 Nano clock, and the Cos Engineering S10 switch, which were all precisely linked utilising Lu Kang’s speaker cables.

ROOM 447, 449 雅風: ATC

In room 447, the spotlight was on the limited edition blue ATC SCM20ASL powered speakers, paired with the CD2 CD player and SCA2 preamplifier. This system exemplified ATC’s commitment to durability and timeless performance, offering a straightforward setup designed to last for generations.

Meanwhile, in room 449, ATC showcased the mighty SCM300ASLT speakers, driven by P4 power amplifiers in mono configuration. Although the same CD2 and SCA2 components were used, the sheer power of the SCM300ASLT was almost too much for the space, with the volume set a bit too high to fully appreciate the capabilities of this formidable system in the smaller room.

ROOM 448, 450 富禮韻: KALI, ISOACOUSTICS:

Kali Audio made a strong impression at the show by introducing a full 7.1.4 Atmos setup in one room, demonstrating their expertise in immersive audio environments. In another room, they showcased the rest of their product lineup, offering a comprehensive view of what the brand has to offer. They also presented a high-end setup featuring Focal speakers and Soul Note amplification, specifically designed for A/B listening tests to highlight the benefits of acoustic treatment. The IsoAcoustics Gaia feet played a crucial role in this demonstration, effectively showing how proper isolation can enhance sound clarity and performance, convincing even the most skeptical listeners of the importance of acoustics.

ROOM 451 榮鈦: KENAZ

A Taiwanese manufacturer of high-end active speakers showcased their impressive AD36 bookshelf speakers, which continue to amaze listeners with their built-in DSP and robust power amplification in each unit. Paired with the COS D10 streaming preamp, the AD36 once again demonstrated its ability to deliver astonishing sound quality for its size, reinforcing its reputation as a powerful yet compact solution for serious audiophiles.

ROOM 452 理查: BYPASS

ROOM 453 秦漢社: HECO, MAGNAT

Heco and Magnat shared a double room to demonstrate a range of settings, each tailored to various audio preferences and space criteria. The smaller Magnat MA700 integrated amplifier was coupled with the compact Heco Aurora 100 speakers to produce a balanced and detailed sound. The larger system included the Magnat MA900 integrated amplifier, which drove the striking red Heco Aurora 700 colour speakers, providing a more robust audio experience. Furthermore, the area displayed the Magnat TransPlus 1000 speakers and the tiny Monitor Reference 2A, giving visitors a variety of alternatives to fit their unique requirements.

ROOM 502 哈博 WADAX, MAGICO

The room featuring the Magico M7 speakers, paired with the high-end Wadax Studio player, showcasing the Wadax Atlantis reference lineup, Basis Audio turntable with SuperArm 9 tonearm, and Gryphon Audio Mephisto Solo amplifiers, was undoubtedly a collection of some of the most elite and expensive audio components available today. However, the grandeur of this equipment was unfortunately mismatched with the room’s size, leading to a less-than-ideal listening environment. The space constraints prevented the system from fully demonstrating its potential, leaving listeners with a sense of “what could have been.” Despite this, the effort to bring together such an extraordinary setup was evident and commendable.

ROOM 503 愷銳: PERLISTEN, TORUS, TRINNOV, EPSON

Room 503 was all about the future of home cinema, featuring the impressive Epson EH-QB1000B projector, Trinnov Altitude 16 processor, and 4D capable movie chairs. The Perlisten 7.7.4 home theatre setup provided an immersive experience, with flawless sound imaging and bass filling the space. The setup’s seven main channels, seven subwoofers, and four overhead speakers provided a dynamic soundstage ideal for dedicated cinemagoers. The addition of popcorn made it feel like a truly cinematic experience.

ROOM 504 響韻  CD

ROOM 506, 508 愛普生 EPSON

ROOM 507 韻城 TAD, TRIGON

Trigon and TAD in room 507 delivered a highly calibrated system that emphasised precision and musicality. The straightforward configuration consisted of a Fidata music server feeding into the TAD-DA1000MK2 DAC, which then routed the signal to the Trigon Excellence integrated amplifier. This powerhouse pairing powered the TAD Micro Evolution One speakers, which are renowned for their remarkable detail and dynamic range. The end result was a unified and engaging sound that accentuated the capabilities of both the electronics and the speakers, creating a rich, immersive listening experience.

ROOM 509 超凡之聲 NIRVANA, HEED

Nirvana Audio has expanded their product line beyond their own Chronos audio optimiser by incorporating excellent components from other reputable brands. At this occasion, they showcased a well-rounded system that includes Swiss-made Boenicke Audio W5 bookshelf speakers, which are built of solid wood and have an elaborate labyrinthine interior to reduce internal standing waves. The Mytek Brooklyn Bridge DAC, famed for its detailed and transparent digital-to-analog conversion, worked in concert with these one-of-a-kind speakers. With the inclusion of the Hungarian Heed Audio Obelisk Si3, Nirvana Audio has created a system that blends elegance and precision in a very compact footprint.

ROOM 510, 512, 516 集雅社 SONY, SAMSUNG

ROOM 514, 518 尊品 TECSUN

Tecsun introduced their take on the classic LS 3/5A speaker design with the PA-80, a compact and well-crafted speaker that aims to deliver a sound reminiscent of the legendary original. Known for its rich midrange and precise imaging, the LS 3/5A design has long been revered by audiophiles, and Tecsun’s PA-80 pays homage to this legacy by offering a similar sonic experience in a modern, finely constructed package.

ROOM 515 文鼎 MUSEUM

Darling, a renowned Taiwanese OEM turntable producer, has long been the force behind some of the most popular turntables on the market, including the flagship Yamaha G5000. Despite the fluctuations in the vinyl market, Darling remained steadfast by shifting its focus to OEM production for major brands. With the resurgence of vinyl, they have reintroduced their own line of turntables and established the “Gramophone Museum.” This space proudly displays some of the earliest audio equipment and rare shellac record players, serving as a tribute to the history of audio development. For many vinyl enthusiasts in Taiwan, this museum holds special significance, as their first turntable was likely a Darling-made model, further cementing the company’s legacy in the audio world.

ROOM 519 博韻 BAYZ

A Hungarian speaker manufacturer has rapidly gained recognition for its unique design. In this setup, paired with a Pilium power amplifier and the Mola Mola Tambaqui digital preamp, the system delivered a performance rich in nuance and detail, showcasing the synergy between cutting-edge Hungarian craftsmanship and high-end amplification.

ROOM 520 艾傑 ELVES AUDIO, LEBEN

Elves Audio demonstrated a well-rounded audio setup that included their ground noise eliminator and power conditioner, as well as the Ground Noise Terminator, which provides a cleaner, more polished sound. The system was powered by the Leben CS600 amplifier, which is recognised for its warm and deep tones. To round up the setup, Elves Audio brought their own bookshelf speakers, which produced an amazing performance with clear, detailed sound, demonstrating the benefits of their noise management solutions.

ROOM 523 可韻 YG ACOUSTICS, AESTHETIX

The room with the YG Acoustics Summit speakers, the Aesthetix Atlas Eclipse stereo amplifier, and the COS Engineering D10 preamp and player made for a great listening experience. The Aesthetix Atlas Eclipse, which had plenty of power and a detailed, dynamic soundstage, paired great with the Summit speakers, which are known for their accuracy and clarity.

ROOM 524 金山 KEF

In the room dedicated to KEF’s popular all-in-one speakers, the focus was on showcasing the LS60, LS50, and LSX models.

ROOM 526 龍米 FORMOVIE

ROOM 527 上鍵 UNIKA, DANTE SYSTEM

Digital Audio Network Through Ethernet, or Dante, is a networking technology that allows high-quality, uncompressed, low-latency digital audio to flow seamlessly over standard IP networks like Ethernet. While this may seem like a departure from traditional audiophile setups, it’s particularly beneficial in the age of streaming, offering a new dimension of flexibility and performance.

Recognizing the potential of this technology, UNiKA has ventured into this area, leveraging their extensive experience in professional-grade equipment. At the show, they introduced their new Pascal-based A to AB power amplifier. This innovative approach is certainly worth keeping an eye on as it represents a significant shift in the way high-end audio systems might be designed in the future.

ROOM 531 巨禮 MARTEN, MSB, MITCHELL

The Marten Parker Trio speakers, with their precise and natural sound, served as the system’s foundation. They were powered by the MSB Reference power amplifier and DAC, which provided excellent clarity and control over the audio output.

The Naim NSX200 further refined the digital sources, providing smooth integration and high-quality sound reproduction. On the analogue side, the Mitchell Gyro SE turntable added a traditional touch by producing rich tones that complemented the digital precision of the rest of the setup. This room provided a well-rounded listening experience, combining cutting-edge technology and traditional analogue sound.

ROOM 535 太順 WISDOM IN-WALL

They showcased an in-wall home theatre setup.

ROOM 536 德城 DC CABLE

DC Cables’ room focused on showcasing their latest high-quality yet affordable cables, particularly their new M1 speaker cables and Unis tonearm cables, both made from OCC single crystal copper with fully Teflon connectors. They also introduced a pure silver DC cable, designed to enhance audio clarity. Additionally, their large bookshelf speakers, featuring top-tier SCAN drivers in independent chambers, delivered surprisingly deep bass down to 33Hz, making them a standout in the room.

ROOM 539 冠球 ARRIBA

Arriba, renowned for their expertise in transformer winding and tube amplifiers, presented two distinct systems. The first, a compact entry-level setup, featured the A7008 integrated amp with EL34 tubes and Bluetooth, paired with Castle Knight 2 speakers. The second, a flagship system, included the P1208 tube CD player, A3150 preamp, and A-6138 mono-block power amps with 845 tubes, driving Tannoy Kingston speakers. Arriba also unveiled their new T-1801 power isolation transformer, their most powerful model yet, offering 800W of clean power.

ROOM 540 卡門 ARCAM; REVEL

The Revel R228Be features a beryllium tweeter with an advanced Acoustic Lens waveguide, a hallmark of Revel’s designs. The 5-inch midrange and 8-inch woofer are made from Deep Ceramic Composite (DCC), a material exclusive to the PerformaBe series, delivering performance that some say even surpasses the Ultima2 series.

This setup was driven by Hegel’s flagship H600 integrated amplifier, paired with the Viking CD transport. The combination provided a clear, powerful sound, showcasing the synergy between the technology of both brands.

ROOM 543 SME, VOLTI, NITTYGRITTY

Room 543 delivered a superb audio experience, thanks to a carefully curated setup. Volti Audio, an American manufacturer making its debut in Taiwan, showcased their Lucera loudspeakers—a three-way, hybrid horn/bass-reflex design known for high sensitivity, wide bandwidth, and exceptional build quality. Despite their robust, industrial appearance with sharp edges and an oblong shape, the Luceras delivered a sound that was surprisingly delicate and well-controlled.

Amplification came from CODA, a respected American brand that doesn’t often get the attention it deserves. Their equipment brought a level of refinement and power to the system that truly stood out.

However, the showstopper was undoubtedly the SME Synergy turntable. This masterpiece is the result of a high-profile collaboration, with SME providing the turntable, tonearm, and power supply, while Nagra contributed the phono stage and power supply, Crystal Cable offered bespoke wiring, and Ortofon added a custom cartridge. The Synergy turntable tied the system together, offering an analogue experience that left a lasting impression.

ROOM 545 SB ACOUSITCS, ELEKIT

The system featuring the SB Acoustics Sasadu TX speakers and the Elekit TU-8850SE KT170 SEP amplifier, which delivers 16W per channel, exemplifies how simplicity can be powerful. The Sasadu TX, known for its detailed and engaging sound, pairs beautifully with the TU-8850SE, a single-ended tube amplifier that brings warmth and richness to the audio experience. Despite the affordability of the electronics, this setup produces a sound signature that is truly captivating, drawing you in with its musicality and emotional impact. It’s a perfect example of how well-chosen components can create a system that far exceeds expectations.

ROOM 546 東億: AE, CARY AUDIO

The room featured a stunning lineup of Acoustic Energy’s Corinium and Audio Physic’s Midex speaker systems, supported by Cary Audio’s latest gear.

Acoustic Energy’s flagship Corinium speakers exemplify the brand’s commitment to high-quality, accessible audio. These speakers feature a 29mm tweeter made from Japanese silk, carbon fiber midrange and bass drivers, and a cabinet constructed using RSC sandwich technology—ensuring both strength and excellent sound performance. The Corinium’s striking racing green finish added to its visual appeal.

On the electronics side, Cary Audio’s DMS-800 streaming dual-mono DAC impressed with its high-resolution capabilities, supporting up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512. Paired with this was the Cary Audio SI-300.2d integrated amplifier, which incorporates an AK4490EQ DAC chip, delivering 300W at 8 ohms and 450W at 4 ohms in a high-bias Class AB mode, retaining pure Class A at lower output levels.

Additionally, on display they showcased Cary Audio’s iconic tube amplifiers, including the CAD-300SEI single-ended triode 300B amplifier and the powerful SLI-100, which uses KT150 tubes to produce 200W. Audio Physic’s speaker lineup was also on display. This thoughtful mix of classic and modern components made for a room full of auditory and visual delights.

ROOM 547 LALS

LALS Audio, a Taiwanese manufacturer known for its wooden enclosures and horn-loaded designs, presented their latest innovation, the LALS Precision 15 II. This speaker showcases significant advancements, including an external “Golden Tweeter” housed outside the main cabinet, with a fully separated horn to minimize bass vibrations’ impact on the tweeter. The external two-way crossover adds another layer of precision, ensuring optimal frequency distribution.

Driving the Precision 15 II was LALS’s own Pure AMP-170 II amplifier, providing the power needed for this intricate system. The setup was further enhanced by the MYSTJ audio rack, which played a crucial role in maintaining stability and isolating vibrations, ensuring the system performed at its best.

ROOM 549 MSB, MARTEN, VERTERE

The room featuring the Marten Coltrane Quintet SE delivered a true flagship experience with impeccable sound quality and a refined footprint. The digital source was provided by the MSB Cascade DAC, paired with the ProUSB/ProISL optical USB module for flawless signal transmission. Amplification came directly from the MSB S500 Stereo Amplifier, showcasing a seamless connection between DAC and amplifier.

All this high-end gear was connected using Jorma and Vertere Statement Series cables, renowned for their purity and signal integrity. The system’s stability and isolation were ensured by BDR and Thixar equipment, maintaining the pristine sound quality. This setup was not only a feast for the ears but also a visual treat, with beautifully crafted equipment that added to the room’s luxurious ambiance.

ROOM 448, 550 精雨: BAREFOOT, STROMAUDIO, ZIDOO, STARKE, FIBBR

Room 550 highlighted a high-end home theater setup featuring the StormAudio ISR Fusion 20, a 16.4-channel all-in-one surround amplifier, driving a 10.4.6 speaker configuration with KK speakers. The system was paired with a 145-inch MicroLED screen by Create, offering stunning visuals, and 4DX motion-enabled seating for an immersive audio-visual experience. The Zidoo UHD 8000 multimedia player added 8K playback capabilities, rounding out this setup.

Room 548 showcased a professional Dolby Atmos Music studio, featuring the Storm Audio EVO AoIP processor, capable of transmitting multi-channel audio over IP networks. The room’s 7.1.4 layout was powered by Barefoot Sound monitors, with the MM12 speakers delivering precise, dynamic sound, enhanced by StormAudio’s Dirac Live ART technology.

ROOM 551 羽傑 NORMA, GRAHAM

This space offered an excellent marriage of English and Italian sound. It revolved around the Graham Audio LS 5/9f speakers, a floorstanding version of the legendary BBC LS5/9 monitor, which is noted for its natural and balanced sound. These speakers were powered by the Norma Audio IPA-140 integrated amplifier, which is well-known for its power and musicality. The source was the Norma Audio DS-2, a CD player and DAC combo that provides remarkable detail and clarity during digital playback.

The system was further strengthened with high-quality Audioplan and Vertere cabling. The Audioplan PowerPlant 100 isolation transformer supplied clean and reliable power to the entire setup, while vibration control was handled by BDR cones from the United States and Thixar dampers from Germany, ensuring that the audio performance was as pure and uninterrupted as possible. This system provided a precise and fascinating listening experience, ideal for audiophiles seeking natural and immersive sound.

ROOM 553 三圓新技: SANYUAN DESIGN

Stepping into this room, I was flabbergasted. San Yuan New Tech’s setup was a captivating mix of impressive craftsmanship and modern audio design. Originally a car design studio known for crafting life-sized models for major automakers, this Taiwanese company has expertly utilized its engineering skills to create bespoke speakers that are both visually striking and technically advanced.

The centerpiece of the audio setup was a massive, custom-built speaker system, designed for a client with a penchant for high-end karaoke. These speakers offered a unique feature: the ability to adjust vocals and music levels independently, providing a highly personalized karaoke experience. To maximize sound quality, the system was powered directly by 100W amplifiers, bypassing pre-amplification to ensure the best possible sound transmission and minimal distortion. The result was an impressive audio experience that left a lasting impression, making this room a must-visit for anyone at the show.

ROOM 556 管米: TUBEFAN

The Taiwanese brand Tube Fan Audio showcased its latest design, the Windsor 300B Gold Plus, a model that earned the prestigious Audio Forum’s “Equipment of the Year” award. This upgraded version of the Windsor 150 Gold Plus pushes the 300B design to new heights, with a key feature being the ALPS RK50 volume control, a component typically found only in high-end, costly equipment. The Windsor 300B Gold Plus was paired with Tannoy Legacy Arden speakers for the demo, delivering a rich and dynamic sound.

The Esoteric CD player was utilized to showcase Tube Fan Audio’s latest DAC, the AD-2 Platinum, which marks a significant upgrade from its predecessors. The original AD-2 required an external DC power supply, which was later integrated into the Luxury version. Now, the Platinum version elevates the design further with a dual power supply setup, housed in a larger chassis to accommodate upgraded components, offering a more refined audio experience.

We hope you enjoyed Gyula’s coverage of the TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show, you can read his TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show Report Part 1 here and TAA 2024 Taipei HiFi Show Report Part 2 here.

Stay tuned for his next HiFi adventures in Asia!

Gyula Weeber