THE TECA 2023 TAIPEI INTERNATIONAL AUDIO SHOW WAS TAIPEI’S SECOND MAJOR HIGH END HIFI SHOW OF THE YEAR

HiFi PiG’s Gyula Weeber takes a pre-Christmas trip to the Grand Hotel Taipei for the TECA 2023 Taipei International Audio Show, the second large-scale high-end HiFi event of 2023 at this venue.

The TECA 2023 Taipei International Audio Show, Taipei’s second major high-end audio event of the year, unfolded in a familiar setting, hosted at the same hotel and echoing the style of the TAA Hi-End Audio event in August.

Please note, all content and photos are the copyright of HiFi PiG Magazine/Big Pig Media LLP and must not be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior, written consent of HiFi PiG/Big Pig Media.

TECA 2023 TAIPEI INTERNATIONAL AUDIO SHOW

Featuring over 150 rooms with diverse exhibitors, with 135 dedicated to audio, the show presented a mix of million-dollar setups, DIY solutions, and artisanal approaches. With a weekend turnout exceeding 38,000, the event pleasantly surprised many exhibitors by attracting a diverse audience, notably including a vibrant younger crowd. According to the statistics provided by the organizers, 24% of attendees were under 30 years old, 37% fell within the 30-40 age range, and 39% were over 40, creating a well-balanced and engaging mix of participants.

LOBBY: ACCUPHASE, FYNE AUDIO (台笙 AUDIO-PHOENIX)

Experiencing an uncanny déjà vu, the room resonated with a strikingly similar setup to the event in August. Amidst the sense of familiarity, the showcase featured the Fyne Audio Vintage Fifteen and Vintage Five, unveiling the Classic 12 as well. The room exuded an extensive presentation of the Fyne Audio bookshelf and classic series. Unchanged since August, the electronics boasted the Accuphase lineup, but now featuring the freshly announced A-80 class A power amplifier, P4600 power amplifier, C2300 control center, the E4000 integrated amplifier, and DP770 SA-CD player. The room was buzzing with seasoned audiophiles, lured in by the irresistible vintage charm of the Accuphase and Fyne Audio duo.

V101: TAD – 韻城 \ Win Champ

TAD took the spotlight, showcasing their impressive GE1 speakers, M700 power amplifiers, the newly unveiled C-1 preamplifier, and the D700 D1000 CD player. This room’s exquisite, effortlessly elegant interior design, along with the comfortable sofas from a reputable Italian manufacturer, truly captured my attention and made it my personal favorite. The presence of TAD’s President, Mr. Shinji Tarutani, added an extra layer of distinction to an already outstanding showcase.

V102: Cabasse, Gold Note, Monitor Acoustics – 雅士 \ Ace Audio

Monitor Acoustics, a local producer of power system architecture and distributor of esteemed brands like Cabasse and Gold Note, showcased the vibrant Cabasse speaker line—the Pearl Collection. The compact Keshi 2.1 system left a lasting impression on me for the second time! Moreover, the Pelegrina, with its sound capacity exceeding 3800W RMS, transcended its compact size, offering a versatile all-in-one solution in a very decorative package—a truly remarkable solution for even the most discerning audiophiles.

V103: PMC, AVM, Cyrus, Spendor, Inakustic – 瑩聲 \ Jadex Audio

Jadex Audio ingeniously transformed their uniquely shaped space into a decent-sounding room, showcasing the robust PMC Fenestria speakers, AVM MP8.3 media player, PA8.3 preamp, and MA8.3 power amplifier. Their room also featured the Zorin S1 and Edwards Audio TT3 turntables, the PMC Cor amplifier, and a carefully curated selection of vintage and contemporary jazz records.

V105: JBL, TechDAS, Legato – 英大

I walked into this massive room that was filled with JBL gear! They were flaunting their latest offerings, like the Spinner BT, TT350 turntables, CD350 CD player, and SA750 amplifiers. And let’s not forget the speakers—the L52, L82, and L100 passive, and the 4309, 4349, and 4367 active speakers.

But who was the star of the room? The TechDAS AirForce Zero is a beast of a turntable, weighing in at a whopping 330kg! Paired up with Legato’s fresh-out-the-oven 1200W mono power amp and preamp, it was a sight to behold. Add in the FM Acoustic HSE 330 phono amp and the colossal JBL Everest DD67000 speakers, and you’ve got a full-blown audio extravaganza.

Although I was not blown away by the sound while I was hanging out, let’s chalk that up to a bad record choice.

V106, V108, and V110: Rockport, Innuos, Constallation Audio, Dynaudio, Peak Design, Audio Research, Siltech, and T+A – 鈦孚 \ Taifu Audio

Taifu Audio, a formidable distributor, showcased their most popular brands in three separate rooms.

The Rockport Lyra speakers were featured in the first room, V106, along with a powerhouse setup that included Constellation Audio Centaur II mono power amplifiers, a Virgo III preamplifier, and the mesmerizing Playback Design MPT-8 Digital Transport and MPD-8 DAC. Adding a touch of streaming magic was the Innuos Statement series, all elegantly housed in Montaudio racks and interconnected by Siltech cables.

108 was dedicated to Dynaudio and Innuos, with a lovely display of the whole Innuos range, to kick off their newly formed cooperation with Taifu in Taiwan. The demo system was a Dynaudio Confidence 60 speaker with a Constellation Taurus stereo poweramp, the Pictor preamp, Innuos Pulsar, and Zennith MK3 responsible for streaming.

And last but certainly not least, V110 unleashed the sonic behemoths—the 400kg Peak Consult Audio Dragon Legends. The Audio Research REF10 preamplifier, CD6 CD player, and powerful T+A M40 HV power amplifiers served as the engines for these monsters. Topping it off was the analog charm of the T+A G200R turntable.

A T+A system built around the Solitaire S540 speakers was installed on the opposite side of the room. The MP3100HV SA CD player, PSD3100HV streaming DAC and preamp, and T+A3000HV power amps were the supporting electronics.

V107, V109: Burmester, Estelon, NEO, SoTM, Cardas – 極品 \ TOP AUDIO

Top Audio went all out with two incredible rooms, each displaying some seriously high-end audio gear.

The spotlight was on a complete flagship Burmester system in Room 107. The magnificent BC150 speakers took center stage, accompanied by the 948 power conditioners, the formidable 218 mono power amplifiers, a Top Line 100 phono preamplifier, and the exquisite 217 turntable. The music streaming was taken care of by the Reference 111 music center.

Meanwhile, Room 109 welcomed the Estelon Aura speakers. Paired with the Burmester 956 MK2 power amplifier, the 035 preamplifier, and the Aurender A30 network streamer and DAC.

402 38°C/38度C (SME, Arriba, Rodger, AVM)

38°C is a popular music store with an incredible selection of CD and vinyl collections, ranging from new releases to second-hand fan favorites.

They always bring a great selection of music to these shows; for example, they had all of the Dominique Fils Aime albums, which were previously difficult to find—I had to order mine from Canada!

They had two rooms, the smaller of which was dedicated to vinyl playback and featured a fantastic SME Model 6 turntable with an M2-9 tonearm and an Ortofon MC30 cartridge. Arriba’s A-6025 SE with EL64 tubes confidently delivered amplification to the legendary Rodger LS3/5a with the additional AB3A sub. Another intriguing piece of equipment in the room was the newly released JV200P amplifier from a Taiwanese manufacturer, which features a 200W/channel hybrid amplifier with tube and GaN transistors, a built-in Cyrus DAC, and two HDMI ports! I requested a listen, paired with the DALI Menuet provided a lovely sound.

In the bigger room, they had an Opera Prima with an AVM Evolution CS 5.3 all-in-one, a Unison Unico 90, an Esoteric K-05 SACD player, and some Innuos gear.

404 Showfeel

I met with the Showfeel Bluetooth speakers in Singapore when they launched the product, and it seems like the first time in Taipei. The room was quite spartan, with a couple of speakers in daisy-chained configuration playing together. 

406     正成 (Genelec, Presonus, Fluid, Ashdown Meters, Beyerdynamic, Audeze)

In this very interesting room, they properly set up the Genelec One with the GLM software for room acoustic calibration and demonstrated the benefits of room acoustic software. Despite the unconventional setup, I believe it was one of the best-sounding rooms.

They were able to dedicate a secondary room for headphone listening and showcase a great selection of headphones, with a wide range of models available for demo from Ashdown Meters, Beyerdynamic, and Audeze. It proved to be quite a popular room!

408, 430 Keep Running / 愷銳 (Perlisten, Kinki Audio, Technics, Torus Power, Chord)

Excellent sounding room with a very viable audio setup. The knowledgeable team installed the R4i-LCRS speakers in a panel, imitating an in-wall speaker setup that would be an ideal option for many due to room size constraints. Paired with the R000i-LCRS, currently the world’s smallest THX Dominus-certified active subwoofer, there were no luck of frequencies. The electronics included the Kinki EX-B7 mono power amplifiers, the EX-P27 preamp, the Chord Hugo TT2 DAC, and the Technics SL-G700 streaming CD player. Clean power was provided by the Torus Power RM Series power conditioner, with a transparent lid so everybody could admire that ginormous toroidal donut. It was certainly one of the most photographed items at the show. 

They were promoting the M&K Sound speakers in room 430, and there seemed to be some kind of big sale going on because the room was always crowded when I passed by.

428 Tien Audio / 田昌政 (Tien Audio, Tombo Audio, Soulnote, Trinnov, Western Electric)

The Taiwanese turntable specialist had a very vivid showing with the flaming red turntable and speakers. The TT5 is a unique turntable, as unlike traditional turntables, the TT5 boasts a unique three-stage torque design to master different engraving types: wax, lacquer, and DMM. This innovation, achieved through precise torque control with three motors, ensures optimal playback for varying groove depths. The Viroa Plus tonearm is also a one-of-a-kind, meticulously designed Tien component, with the arm lengths customizable to the customer’s preferences. The cartridge was the great Hana Umami Blue. Under the turntable, the Kurashiki 50C Table Top Isolator came from outside the audio industry with a serious laboratory clean room-certified air compression system.

The amplifier came from Western Electric, the WE91E 300B tube amp, with the Soulnote E-2 phono and a Trinnov active crossover room acoustic solution. The red speakers are Neo Legend Altec Big Red Monitors.

446 Cheery Audio / 巨禮 (Naim, Focal, Nordost, Cardas, Michell Engineering)

Showcasing the Naim Focal 10th Anniversary series, the ensemble included the impressive Sopra N°2 speakers, NAPSC and HiCap DR power supplies, NAP 250DR power amplifier, NAC 282 preamp, and NDX 2 network player. The sleek gray shade added a touch of sophistication to the aesthetic appeal, in addition to the auditory delight. Nordost cables and power management solutions were also seamlessly integrated to enhance the audio experience. The result was excellent.

456 Shining Audio / 翔韻 (Focal, Naim, Bluesound, Scandyna)

The attention of the audience was diverted when the host in the room decided to make an appearance wearing an unusual T-shirt. They were demonstrating Focal speakers equipped with Bluesound electronics.

450 Sennheiser /  宙宣

Another great room dedicated for headphone lovers, Sennheiser didn’t leave anything to chance, as they brought and demo everything from the Accentum and Momentum wireless headphones to the HD800 and HD820.

452 Crown / 皇冠

It is a popular karaoke brand, so they mostly showcased products for that kind of use, but they also had some pretty interesting-looking speaker options.

453 Sony / 祥建 (Heco, Magnat, Bang & Olufsen)

The distributor primarily focuses on Bang & Olufsen and Sony TVs and portable lifestyle audio, but they also have a full Magnat system. The Signature 707 Speaker and Ma900 all-in-one work well together, while the MTT990 Direct Drive Turntable or the HECO Celan Revolution 7 were offering an upgrading possibility.

451 Yo-Tronics / 俊華智能

Taiwanese headphone manufacturer Yo-Tronics has unveiled an expansive lineup of headphones, among which I had the opportunity to try two closed-back models. The YTH-880 Pro, a noteworthy hi-res audio-certified headphone, boasts a remarkably linear sound profile, generously sized and comfortable earcups, and an impressively lightweight build. While its initial weight might raise eyebrows, the advantage becomes apparent after enjoying the comfort. On the other hand, the flagship model, YTH-2400, showcases cherry wood earcups and a 50mm dynamic driver. With a manageable impedance of 64Ω and a sensitivity of 93 dB, it proves to be an easy headphone to drive. Notably, the provided cable is of excellent quality.

449 Seapowertech / 海威 (Audel, Synthesis, Bluesound, Primare, Epsilon, Norstone)

Synthesis was a true standout at the show, choosing Taiwan for the world premiere of their latest flagship amplifier, the FCO-300. This dual-mono single-ended pure class-A powerhouse pumps out an impressive 8W at 1KHz into 4 and 8 ohms. Weighing in at 45 kg, this behemoth is expressly crafted for high-efficiency speakers, featuring four pairs of balanced and RCA connections. Teamed up with the Audel Symphonika, a speaker with 93 dB sensitivity, the combination unfolded into a blissful musical journey.

Adding to the sonic spectacle, Synthesis showcased the NYC 200i integrated amp in the same room. It was a powerful testament to their engineering prowess, with a formidable 230W of power emanating from 8 KT120 tubes in an ultra-linear push/pull setup. Engaging with the brilliant minds behind Synthesis, Ludovica and Luigi, was a delightful prelude to the exhibition.

In another room, a more modest yet impressive system took center stage. The Primare i35 Prisma integrated amp harmonized seamlessly with the Audel Magika mk2 speaker, creating a sonic experience that showcased the distributor’s commitment to excellence across different scales.

445 Joy Audio / 久樂 (Acoustic Energy, Gryphon)

An avid audio enthusiast and proprietor of a music store, the owner of Joy Audio took the initiative to bring his personal setup to the show. The centerpiece of his exhibit was a painstakingly restored AE5 floorstander that embodied the charm and craftsmanship of true old-school audio. When combined with the Gryphon Callisto 2200 integrated amplifier, the system produced a sonic experience that reflected both vintage allure and modern audio finesse. His contribution added a unique touch to the exhibition, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and high-end audio performance.

427 台企行 (SME, Loricraft, Nitty Gritty, Crystal Cable)

Capitalizing on the opportunity presented by the presence of Synthesis Audio, they decided to borrow the Roma 98DC power amp to drive the Focal Sopra Nº3 speakers. The source of this setup was none other than the SME Synergy MK2 turntable, complemented by the Primare PRE 35 preamplifier. The SME Synergy turntable itself is a masterpiece, featuring a built-in phono stage from Nagra, an Ortofon MC Windfeld Ti Cartridge, and internal wiring from Crystal Wire. The resulting sound, as anticipated, was nothing short of extraordinary, and the visual allure of the orange-hued speakers added an element of fun to the overall setup.

415 OBIT Audio (Heco, Falcon Acoustics, Roksan)

Specializing in vibration feet, OBIT Audio showcased their well-priced and effective products at the show, allowing attendees to engage in proper A/B testing. The chosen speaker for their demonstration was from Falcon Acoustics, accompanied by the vintage charm of an older Roksan Radius turntable. The amplification duties were entrusted to the Taiwanese Analogue Audio Lab, featuring the 4W 204 integrated amplifier with a distinct retro vibe.

409 Emotiva / 諦冠

Making its debut appearance in Taiwan, Emotiva took center stage at the show, marking its inaugural presence in the region. The American audio brand renowned for its affordability, ensured a lasting impression by setting up an impressive 9.3.4 system. While Emotiva has already gained recognition, the availability of their products through an experienced distributor is poised to amplify their presence and garner even more attention in the market. This move not only reflects the brand’s commitment to accessibility but also underscores the potential for increased traction with the support of a seasoned distributor.

407 Fire Bird Sound / 郁杰 (Sonus Faber, Parasound, Eversolo)

A room that was filled with pleasing sound and featured some of the most esteemed HiFi brands. The Sonus Faber Amati G5 is not only a visual marvel but an audiophile delight, seamlessly paired with the Parasound Hint 6 amplifier. The Rose RS150B, as the source for streaming music, contributed to the sonic appeal. Together, this ensemble created a harmonious listening experience, showcasing the synergy of top-tier components.

405 Toku&Gawa / 德川

Here’s a fascinating proposition for the weekend DIY enthusiast. A collaboration between Taiwanese and Japanese creators delivers speakers, amplifiers, and DACs neatly packaged in an Ikea-style format. This allows customers to assemble their audio setup at home, doubling the enjoyment of the experience. I had the opportunity to enjoy the 2.2 offerings, featuring a pair of 3” full-range speakers, two active subs, and a compact DSP amplifier with three knobs for precise frequency adjustments in the digital domain. The resulting sound exceeded expectations, providing an expansive soundscape that defied the small dimensions. The satisfaction of having built it yourself adds an exciting dimension to this innovative proposal.

403 Barco / 太順 (JBL)

Please note, all content and photos are the copyright of HiFi PiG Magazine/Big Pig Media LLP and must not be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior, written consent of HiFi PiG/Big Pig Media.

Read the second part of Gyula’s report here!

Gyula Weeber