TECA 2023 TAIPEI INTERNATIONAL AUDIO SHOW REPORT PART 2

Here’s the second and final part of Gyula’s report from the TECA 2023 Taipei International Audio Show which took place at the end of last year, taking you around floors 2 and 3 of the Grand Hotel in Taipei.

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.

201 Tube Specialist ／樂騰

In room 201, a distributor specialising in tube amplifiers introduced a range of uniquely named tube amplifiers, many of which were crafted in China.

203 Analog Artist Laboratory, Medien／類比藝術

Analog Artist Laboratory proudly showcased their retro electronics in room 202, featuring the 04 power amplifiers with 4W AB power and the 204 integrated with a built-in phonostage, tone control, and 8W of power. They emphasised the impressive measurements of their equipment, and the pairing with Medien speakers resulted in a delightful sound. This combination of vintage aesthetics and modern performance surely caught the attention of many audio enthusiasts at the show.

205 Pass Lab, AIM, Lansche Audio, Octave, MIT, Chord, Brodmann, Triangle／進音坊

A true connoisseur’s room, dedicated to rarely heard audio brands, and on the main stage, the highlight undoubtedly was the Brodmann JB175, an impressive speaker from the piano specialist. The amplification was provided by the Pass Lab XA 160.8 mono amplifier, complemented by the Octave HP700 preamp. The setup also included the Chord Dave and M-Scaler, as well as a Lumin streamer and a dCS Puccini SA-CD player with cables sourced from AIM and MIT.

They also featured a smaller system with the Brodmann F2. The amplification was provided by Octave Audio with the MRE220 power amplifier, complemented by the Pass Lab XP-22 preamp. This setup had an almost exact source and cable setup.

206 Yamaha / 山葉

In one of the rooms, the focus was on the NS700 5.1 speaker system and home cinema products, while the other room showcased a stereo setup featuring the NS-2000 and SPS 800A speakers, alongside the new RN-2000A and RN-1000A streaming amplifiers. Notably, they offered some terrific sales promotions, including an affordable set comprising the RN-800 streaming amplifier and TT-S 303 turntable.

207 Akustik Labor, Gauder Akustik / 魔豆音響

Akustik Labor’s room exuded a mysterious yet beautiful sound. Showcasing the designer’s own Gauder Akustik Arcona 200 speakers, along with their new mono power blocks, the THOR, delivering an impressive 900W per channel at 4 ohms. The connecting preamp, also named Thor, offers a high level of tone controls. Additionally, the room featured the integrated Artemis amplifier with the newly released LP18S turntable connecting to the built-in phono. Mr. Lin, the respected acoustics expert and owner, kindly shared some of his recent work, including a church and a major concert hall, adding to the allure of the room’s offerings.

208 Spendor, Cyrus, and Zorin / 古碟

The room housed legendary British producers and featured an array of high-quality equipment, including the Spendor D7.2, Classic 100, and A2 speakers, complemented by Cyrus XR and Signature series electronics. Additionally, a Zorin S0 turntable with a Grado cartridge was added to the impressive lineup.

209 AAA / 順暢電子

Advanced Audio Acoustics (AAA Audio) first introduced the 5/7A speaker in Singapore, and this time it launched in Taiwan. It has a sensitivity of 90 dB, a 1 inch silk dome tweeter, and a 6.5 inch carbon fibre midbass driver. This was partnered with their D2000 Intelligent amplifier, which had a complex proprietary AI-driven switching power supply similar to that seen in Chord amplifiers. This configuration, together with a Delight CD player as the music source, ensured that the 5/7A speakers offered great sound quality.

210 Dali, Primaluna, Bricasti / 品樂音響

Pinyo Audio has created an excellent sounding room with Dali and Primaluna gear. The Dali Rubicon 6 speakers were used in conjunction with the Primaluna EVO400 power amplifiers and preamp. The EVO400 integrated was set up with the Dali Rubicon 2. They also included the Bricasti M1 streamer and DAC, as well as the Keces IQRP-3600 power conditioner.

212 Accuphase, Fyne Audio / 台笙

They were featuring the Accuphase C-2300 preamplifier, the Accuphase A-48 power amplifier, the Accuphase DP-750 CD player, and the Rose RS130 streamer. The system was paired with the very Fyne looking F1-8S speakers.

214 Yamaha, MUSEND / 山葉

The new Yamaha YH-5000SE headset, Meze Empyrean II, Final Audio D8000, and T+A Solitaire P headphones were the primary attractions in room 214. The T+D HA200, Yamaha HA-L7Z, and Lumin streamer were on hand to serve these fantastic headphones.

216 KEF, Plinius, Leema / 琦富

The room showcased a standout setup: KEF R7 Meta speakers paired with the powerful Plinius Hiato amplifier. Complementing this duo were the Leema Antilla IIS Eco CD player and the DS-10 Evo streaming DAC, offering a diverse range of digital sources.

215, 219 Kanto, Audioengine, Fiio / 聿鑫

The charming room dedicated to desktop systems featured the Fiio R7 streaming DAC and headphone amplifier paired with the SP3 speakers. Additionally, systems from Audioengine HD3 and the Kanto YU6 with SUB8 were showcased, celebrating reasonably priced systems that cater to both quality and affordability for audio enthusiasts. To add to the diversity, the room also offered the magnificent ZMF Verite and Caldera headphones, as well as the Fiio FT5 headphone with the K9 headphone amp, providing participants with a wide range of desktop audio experiences to discover and appreciate.

220 YPL Audio / 音譜利

The TP-1 Turntable is a high-quality belt-driven turntable with Clearaudio’s ceramic-magnetic bearings, a large 4.5 kilogramme, 40mm-thick aluminium platter, and a separate synchronous motor, ensuring precision in every spin. It comes with a 12″ carbon tonearm and a Grado Gold cartridge. This turntable, which weighs about 19 kg, also has two arm options. As part of an unusually complete system made by a single manufacturer, it worked in harmony with the Favorite-600 floorstanding speakers, producing flawless integration from the get-go.

The YPL T-5 Pro 50W tube integrated amplifier, with four KT88s, two 12AX7s, and two 6N6 tubes, completes the package with 48 W of ultra-linear class-A power with balanced and RCA connections. This amplification component is designed to work in tandem with the turntable and speakers to create a unified and powerful audio experience.

223 KEF / 鍵寧

In a fittingly festive display, the room featured the green KEF LS50 speakers, creating an undoubtedly Christmassy ambience.

227 Stein Music, Origin Live, ZeroUno, Icos /  美德聲

“Voice of Virtue” continues to impress as a dedicated distributor with a keen eye for the unique and the unconventional.

This time their setup included the modular Stein Music HighLine Bobby L speakers, an Origin Live Sovereign Mk IV turntable with the Onyx tonearm, and the rare French Icos Elsberg 2140 Trio, a power-preamp configuration with a matching CD player and external power supply in a marble-like housing. The digital side included a Zerouno digital preamplifier and DAC equipped with an Auraliti streamer. To ensure impeccable connectivity, the system utilises cabling from the American brand Pranawire.

229 Oriole Sound Audio, JMR / 惠樺

Oriole Sound Audio (OSA) is a Taiwanese tube audio specialist and JMR speaker distributor. This time, they used their OSA-88P “General” amplifier, S310 preamplifier, Lyngdorf CD player, and Lindemann network streamer. The speaker was JMR’s flagship model, the Grand Orpheo. 

230 Franco Serblin, Electrocompaniet, Esprit Cables / 巴洛克

Despite occupying what appeared to be the smallest room in the entire show, they fearlessly embraced the challenge and delivered a noteworthy setup. The Franco Serblin Accordo speakers took center stage, complemented by the Electrocompaniet ECI-12 amplifier and a Rockna digital source setup, all connected with French Esprit wires. To fine-tune the room acoustics, they employed the French Art of Acoustics (ASI) ‘sugar cubes’ resonators strategically placed on the wall around the entire room.

231 Chronos, McIntosh, Wattson, Boenicke, MYSTJ / 超凡之聲

The room was showcasing the technological skills of the Taiwanese Nirvana Audio Chronos, an audio optimisation device that enhances the performance of audio systems by influencing acoustic resonance and optimising the entire process from electrical signal production to acoustic wave vibrations. To introduce the capabilities of their device, they use the legendary McIntosh MA9500 integrated amplifier, a Wattson Medison DAC, and a streamer with a Farad Power Supply paired with the slim but mighty-sounding Boenicke W11 SE+ speakers. 

234 Audio Dream / 夢幻

Audio Dream, a specialist in tube amplifiers, offers an array of budget-friendly options, featuring their demo system with the 300B integrated amplifier, an earlier Magnat Transpuls speaker, and the newly launched Omni 3 portable DAC/headphone amplifier, complemented by a T+A CD player as the source.

235 GAIT / 玻音先創

 GAIT, which stands for Glass Acoustic Innovation, is a Taiwanese enterprise focused on glass acoustic diaphragms. In their second encounter, they showcased the GlaxFi BSA-23 Active speaker, equipped with a 6.5″ glass woofer and a 1.5″ glass tweeter, boasting a frequency range of 36–25 kHz. Additionally, the FSP-23, a passive 2-way floorstander speaker, features two 6.5″ glass bass drivers and a 1″ glass tweeter, with an integrated NAD C328 amplifier, demonstrating their commitment to innovative acoustic solutions.

236, 240 Usher, Eversolo / 雅瑟

Taiwan’s prominent speaker manufacturer, with an international fanbase, introduced an updated lineup after years of silent development. The 2.5-way SD-501 and 3-way SD-502 floor-standing speakers were released in August. They are priced very competitively, have a nice matte or lacquer wooden finish, and have the legendary diamond tweeter that made Usher popular in the early 2000’s. Their bigger siblings were also on demo; the ML-801 and ML-802 have a larger footprint and bigger drivers to feel bigger rooms. The ML series has a magnesium-alloy 1.25-inch tweeter, a 5” magnesium-lithium midrange driver, and one or two 8” hybrid carbon fibre woofers.

Most of the electronics were also made by Usher; the R1.5 is a  150W pure class-A power amplifier with the P-307A MKII preamplifier and the widely popular Eversolo DMP A6 network player.

239 Goldenear, Goldmund, REL, Aesthetix, and Farad / 大器

The Goldenear T66 speaker in Santa Barbara Red delivered an appealing statement in room 239. Boasting powered, DSP-controlled 500W subwoofers, a Ribbon AMT tweeter, and driven by an Aesthetix Mimas integrated amplifier, the setup created an impressive sonic experience. Paired with Farad and Audioquest Nigara power conditioners and cables, the T66 not only sounded amazing but also made a lasting impact with its eye-catching red colour.

243 Boenicke, Chupei, Heed, and Nirvana / 楚培

This room held something truly special for me: the introduction of Hungarian-made Heed Audio. The heart of the setup was the acclaimed Heed Thesis Delta CD player paired with the Lagrange flagship integrated amplifier, known for its use of Heed’s proprietary Transcap technology. This innovative approach bypasses direct coupling with the speaker, utilising an “RC-coupling” circuit with a resistor and capacitor. The speakers of choice were the Swiss-made Boenicke W8 and W5, which not only delivered amazing sound but also boasted a friendly footprint, making them a realistic option for many apartments.

246 Dynaudio, AudioResearch, Innuos / 沐爾

The room featured a captivating blend of high-end audio components, including the Audio Research VT80SE amplifier and LS28SE preamplifier, along with the Innuos Zen Mini Mk3 and LPSU. This setup was complemented by the powerful and refined Dynaudio Contour 60 speakers.

245, 247 Arriba, Tannoy, Focal, Bestvox / 歐瑞堡

Arriba, a subsidiary of the esteemed KCR transformer producer, proudly unveiled their latest innovation, the Arriba A-7125 tube push-pull amplifier. Boasting 25W per channel, a built-in wireless connection, and a 15-ohm speaker output tailored to match BBC LS3/5 style speakers, this amplifier was a standout, especially when paired with BestVox LS3/5 speakers. Weighing in at 25kg, it exuded quality and delivered an amazing sound experience.

In the adjacent room, the flagship lineup took centre stage, featuring Focal Sopra and Tannoy speakers alongside the A-6138 38W SET monoblocks with 845 tubes and the A-3150 preamplifier from Arriba. The source of choice was the P-1208 CD player, utilising a pair of 12AU7 tubes, a balanced PCM1794-based D/A conversion, and offering digital and fully balanced outputs.

248 Lals, Mahout / 雷爾斯

The Mahout LQ805 is one of those amplifiers that I can’t get out of my mind, with its gorgeously designed casing, nicely set vu-meters, stunning 805 and 300B tubes, and 50W of lush single-ended class-A power. Its synergy with the Lals Classical 12SE-G horn speakers creates a sonic experience to remember. Sharing the space is the renowned MYSTJ rack system, known for its impeccable craftsmanship and often showcased by audio enthusiasts in local groups when presenting their systems.

249 Bower & Wilkins, Cambridge Audio / 鴻韻

Taking over an entire suite, the setup featured a remarkable collection of B&W, Cambridge Audio, and Audioquest products. In the first room, the B&W 705 SE and 703 S3 speakers were skillfully paired with the all-in-one Cambridge Audio EVO150, along with the Edge NQ streaming preamplifier and W power amplifier. Moving into the main room, attention shifted to the powerful B&W 803D4, accompanied by Classé Pre and Stereo amplifiers. Additionally, the 702S3 speakers were connected to a pair of Cambridge Audio M power amplifiers and the NQ streaming preamp, all interconnected with Audioquest Robin Hood Zero cables.

250 Shark Wire, Equal Tempered, Audio Bastion, Jadis, Westlake Audio, Celia and Perah / 慕陸

Taking the reins in this room is Shark Wire, a distinguished cable producer known for its high-end offerings. Despite the compact setup, the sound delivered is nothing short of surprising. The Westlake bookshelf speakers, propelled by the diminutive Celia & Perah class-D amplifier, housed in a sleek cement structure with an integrated DAC and streamer, stole the spotlight. The showcased version was a specially enhanced model featuring the newly released Shark Wire speaker terminals. Employing proprietary SAPT technology, Sharkwire cables seamlessly integrate gold, silver, and copper layers into their design. The exhibit also featured Audiomis DSP-controlled bookshelf speakers and the distinctive Sharkwire Genesis and Vulcan fuses. Adding to the allure, Shark Wire unveiled a unique Audiophile recording titled “Rückblick” with the mesmerising performances of the Taiwan Percussion Orchestra.

251 Yoga / 世芯

The Taiwanese headphone manufacturer, Yoga, showcased an impressive array of their products, placing the spotlight on their SCD-2560 semi-open headphones. Boasting wooden earcups, these headphones feature a substantial 520mm dynamic driver, delivering a pleasantly warm sound signature.

252 Point Audio / 波穩特

The exhibitor displayed an unusual selection of audio items, including ceramic-sculpted speakers that appeared to prioritise aesthetics over acoustics. Despite the distinctive design, Point Audio displayed their integrated amplifier and D/A converter, as well as a newly introduced power conditioner that drew attention for its impressive efficiency.

256 Q Acoustics, Audio Research, Aurender, Isotek, and QED / 概念音響

Q Acoustics debuted their fresh 5000 series, featuring the 5040 standalone and 5020 bookshelf speakers. The Audio Research i/50 integrated tube amplifier skillfully powered the audio setup, and the Auralic Vega G2.2 served as the source. The seamless connection was achieved with the use of QED cabling and Isotek power distribution, providing a harmonious and very enjoyable sound. They deserve a special mention as they had the most interesting playlist. I saved four songs I had not heard before.

303 HLJ / 弘立捷 (Yamaha, Pylon, Creek)

In room 303, HLJ, a local manufacturer, displayed their innovative MAGLEV isolator foot—a magnetic vibration isolator. They highlighted their technology by displaying two distinct systems. The main setup was quite impressive, with the Polish Pylon’s Jade Twenty large bookshelf speakers paired with the Japanese Yamaha A-S3200 amplifier and a vintage ROTEL CD player. The Pylon Opal speakers were paired with the British Creek Audio 404A in the smaller system. They also had a levitating display, which was quite entertaining and added an element of intrigue to their exhibit.

304 Neotech / 尼威特

In room 304, I was delighted to see Neotech’s impressive cable display, which included the Grand SP, a twisted rectangular UP-OCC speaker cable, and a variety of other cables at various price points. As someone who currently uses Neotech cables throughout my entire system, it is always a pleasure to see their commitment to quality and innovation reflected in their product lineup. The static display truly highlighted the craftsmanship and diversity of their cable offerings, reaffirming my confidence in their products.

306, 308, 310 Wharfedale, Nad, Bluesound, Quad, Audiolab, Luxman, Kharma / 迎家

In rooms 306, 308, and 310, the showcase featured distributors of Wharfedale, NAD, Bluesound, Quad, Audiolab, and Luxman, presenting four distinct systems. The Wharfedale room featured a flagship system that included the impressive Wharfedale Elysian 4 standalone speakers and NAD Master series electronics, such as the M23 power amplifier and m66 digital preamp. They went for a vintage look in the smaller room, pairing the Dovedale speakers with the re-released C3050 all-in-one setup. Personally, I enjoy the Wharfedale speakers’ tonality as well as their aesthetic style. However, I would have liked to hear them with the Luxman electronics.

The QUAD and Audiolab rooms were truly captivating, introducing the newly released QUAD Revela 1 and 2 speakers, which are impressively executed and exude a remarkable presence. The attention to detail in their design and the quality of sound they produce are truly commendable. However, while the new Audiolab 9000 series is undoubtedly impressive in its own right, I couldn’t help but wonder if there might be an even better match for these exceptional speakers. It’s clear that both QUAD and Audiolab have put considerable effort into their latest releases, and the 9000A integrated amplifier is a great option for many!

In room 310, they certainly went for the big guns, showcasing the formidable Luxman M-10X power amp, C-10X preamp, and D-10X SACD player, matched with the impressive Kharma DB9S speakers. This high-end setup promises an exceptional audio experience for any enthusiast. The D-10X had a feature that I thought was really cool: it has a 4x zoom function that makes the fluorescent display easy to read from the comfort of the sweetspot.

312 Kharma, Boulder / 統元

Kharma pulled out all the stops in room 410, showcasing their flagship EV-5D speakers alongside a heavyweight setup from US-based Boulder. The combination of the Boulder 1160 stereo power amp, 1110 preamplifier, and 812 streaming DAC promised and delivered a top-tier audio experience.

314 FASound, Neat Acoustics, Purist Audio Design / 琺韶

The Taiwanese streaming audio specialist unveiled an impressive trio of new models: the Qi-26M, Qi-27Pro, and Qi67. Each model features a 6922 tube preamplifier, 4TB HDD support, and DSD256, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, RoonBridge, and USB DAC capabilities. The Qi-27Pro stands out with its XLR connection, full balanced architecture, and generous 7.9″ screen, whereas the Qi-26M offers DSD512 playback and a spacious 14″ ultrawide screen. However, the Qi67 is anticipated to be the crowd favorite, offering a robust 200W/channel AB amplifier, an eARC connection, and serving as an all-in-one solution that meets modern audio demands with finesse. These new models truly showcase an impressive array of features and options, catering to a wide range of audio enthusiasts. I can not wait to see them break into international markets!

They partnered with the Neat IOTA Alpha and Motive SX1 speakers and Purist Audio cables to demonstrate their gear. They occupied one of the exhibition’s smaller rooms, but they also had one of the nicest sounds.

316, 320 Sony, Canton, Sonus Faber, Samsung, KEF / 集雅社

In room 316, an intriguing blend of TV flagships and exceptional stereo setups was on display. The Sonus Faber Olympica Nova III, accompanied by the Luxman L-509AXII and Bluesound Node, offered a captivating audio experience. In room 320, the spotlight was on the impressive KEF Meta LS50 and LS60 wireless speakers, which were complemented by the powerful KC62 subwoofer.

319 Aesthetix, COS, YG Acoustics / 可韻

YG Acoustics showcased their impressive Vantage 3 speakers alongside the Aesthetix Atlas Eclipse power amplifier in mono, the Taiwanese COS D10 preamplifier and DAC, and the S10 switch. The Vantage series stands out as a technical marvel, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with exceptional sound quality. That may sound like marketing, but it is so engrossing that you quickly forget about it…

322 Tannoy, Accuphase, Copland, Atoll / 日坊

This room contained a collection of audio products from a previous generation. The Accuphase E-260 integrated amplifier is paired with a Copland CD player, a Technics SL-1500 record player, and a Tannoy Prestige Stirling speaker. They used an Atoll PH100 phono stage, as well as other electronics such as the Atoll IN100 integrated, PR 5.1, and RV500 home cinema electronics, which were on display.

324, 326 Lu Kang, Musical Fidelity, Metronome, Kojo Technology, SAEC / 鹿港

Lu Kang Audio displayed two superb systems in different room sizes. The Spoey 200 bookshelf speakers were combined with the dominating Nu-Vista 800.2 amplifier, alongside the aristocratic Metronome Le Player and Le Dac, and supplemented with EAHybrid and Kojo Technology power management devices in the larger space. Meanwhile, in the smaller room, the Spoey 155, Lu Kang’s compact bookshelf speaker, was displayed alongside the Musical Fidelity M8s PRE and 500 power amplifiers, as well as the Metronome Le Player. Lu Kang’s passion for audio excellence is apparent as he achieves outstanding sound quality from compact designs.

327 MOAudio / 茂凱

MOAUDIO, a manufacturer from Taiwan, showcased their distinctive lineup featuring the MK10 Flagship 3-way speaker, MK300 active cross-over power amplifier, MK9038 Pro preamplifier and DAC, and MK-CD1 CD player, maintaining the exact setup presented at the TAA show in August. Alongside this, they unveiled their Diamond-Amp integrated amplifier and the MK165, a smaller bookshelf speaker with VIFA drivers.

328 PIEGA, Spec / 波音聲技

Japanese SPEC and Swiss Piega collaborate in room 328. The Coax 811, Piega’s flagship speaker, was displayed alongside a complete SPEC setup, which included the Spec RPA-W3EX stereo power amplifier, RMP-DAC3EX D/A converter with external power supply, and the Réunion-based Pachanko Labs Constellation Mini music server. SPEC’s Pure Direct Connection stands out as a pioneering feature—utilizing an analog electronic attenuator directly preceding the power stage, it adeptly manages high signal levels from source devices, offering precise volume control through an external signal. It is an innovative approach that aims for a clean, unadulterated signal path.

330 Art Deco musical

Taking a true handcrafted approach, they make spherical ceramic speakers with a great level of personalisation. They are located in Yingge, the heart of Taiwan’s porcelain industry, their artistry intertwines with the rich heritage of the region’s porcelain industry. The sound quality was pleasing, and the design certainly offer a unique approach to enjoying music. 

331 Fischer & Fischer, Vibrato, Acoustic Ars, Yuki, Gradient Audio, Raimyo / 神韻

German brand Fischer & Fischer presented their SN 670 flagship speakers alongside the impressive but compact Klein as a secondary setup. The amplification system featured the Acoustic Arts AMP II with the Tube Preamp II MK2, Reimyo DAP 999EX DAC, CDT 777 transport, and Vibrato Network streamer, providing a high-end digital experience. On the analogue side, the Yuki AP-01 turntable took centre stage, supported by the Greshim Hibiki-65 antivibration solution and the Phasemation EA-1200 phono amplifier in dual mono configuration, with the Phasemation PP-2000 cartridge delivering exceptional performance.

332 Leak Audio, Mission, EKCO, / 享映

Leak Audio brought a fashionable retro vibe to the room with the debut of their new speaker line, the Sandwich 150 and 250. Alongside the Stereo 230 and CDT on display, the spotlight was on the EKCO Eva integrated amplifier, which delivers 15W of power through 4 EL84EH tubes and features a built-in DAC. This setup harmoniously blends vintage aesthetics with modern functionality, offering a nostalgic yet contemporary audio experience.

335 Vienna Acoustics, Electrocompaniet, dCS / 卡本特

Vienna Acoustics made a strong statement at the show by highlighting The Music Speaker from the Klimt series. Electrocompaniet brought in the powerhouse, with the AW 800M power amplifier, the EC 4.8 preamplifier, and the dCS Lina streamer with a master clock. Alongside, on static display, were the Haydn SE, the Liszt, and Beethoven Baby Grand.

336 Anthem, Paradigm, Magnetar / 名展音響

The attention in this room was on a compelling trio: Paradigm Premier 800F speakers, accompanied by the Anthem STR Integrated amplifier, and the Magnetar UDP900. The Paradigm Premier 800F, with its elegant style and formidable performance, worked flawlessly with the Anthem STR Integrated, a powerhouse born from the same stable, harmonising precision with versatility. However, there was a slight disappointment; they didn’t setup the ARC Genesis room correction software—a missed opportunity I had been eager to explore. Nonetheless, the ensemble regained its momentum with the Magnetar UDP900, introducing top-notch playback capabilities and ensuring an audio experience that resonated with quality and finesse.

339 Analysis+, Isoacoustics / 富禮韻

In a purposefully designed room, IsoAcoustics showcased the remarkable capabilities of their revered Gaia isolation feet. The setup featured Amphion Argon7LS speakers and the Cambridge Audio CXA81 integrated amplifier, paired with the impressive CXN V2 network player and Analysis+ cables. Conducting an A/B listening comparison, the impact of the Gaia isolation feet was unmistakable.

340, 342 BenQ / 明基

BenQ unveiled its innovative projector products in two rooms. The first room was a dedicated space for the V5000i short-throw projector, creating a home cinema experience in collaboration with the Focal Sib Evo 5.1 system. This setup not only showcased the projector’s capabilities but also offered a realistic and achievable home cinema option for enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, in room 342, BenQ introduced a portable solution featuring the GS50, GP100, GV30, and GV31 projectors, each equipped with a built-in Android TV and speakers.

 343 ATC / 雅風

British Audio Legends ATC filled the room with their  setup. The ATC SCA100 speakers, paired up with their dynamic duo, the P2 power amplifier, the SCA2 preamplifier, and the top-notch CD2 CD player.

347 Kinki Studio, Sound Plus, Frenco Serblin, Rockna, Thorens / 韶韻

The Franco Serblin Accordo Essence took centre stage, accompanied by the powerful Kinki Studio EX-B7 power amplifier, the EX-P27 Delux preamplifier, and the exquisite Rockna Wavelight DAC and Server. On the analogue front, the setup featured the stunning Thorens TD1601 turntable paired with the sophisticated Sound Plus SP001 tonearm. This meticulously curated system not only delivers an exceptional audio experience but also embodies a harmonious fusion of timeless craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, captivating all who were fortunate to experience it.

348 Vienna Acoustics, Amphion, Arcam, Hegel / 佑昇

During the visit, the room featured the Amphion Argon 7LS alongside the Vienna Acoustics Beethoven Baby Grand. Amplification was provided by the Descartes JC-226S preamplifier and JC86B power amplifier from a Taiwanese producer, complemented by the Arcam ST60 network streamer.

349 MSB, Marten, Atlantis Lab, Norma, Vertere / 上瑞

One of the standout rooms featured masterfully crafted, true high-end audio, catering to audiophile enthusiasts with discerning tastes. An MSB S202 power amplifier, an MSB reference DAC, and the Digital Director were part of a beautifully straightforward setup that supported the magnificent Marten Mingus Septet in the main room. This arrangement delivered a relaxing, heartwarmingly beautiful sound while also creating a treat for all senses. Meanwhile, the supporting room boasted an equally thrilling setup, featuring the Atlantis Lab AT-23 speakers, the Norma IPA-140 integrated amplifier, and the visually striking Vertere DG-1S turntable equipped with the Sabre MM cartridge and Phono-1 MKII L. The Vertere DG-1S turntable, coupled with the vibrant orange cartridge, added an extra layer of visual allure to the setup, promising an equally amazing audio experience.

350 Jadis, SPL, Mogami, Mutech, JBL, AKG, MPS, Adam / 鴻盛奇威勝

The distributor, specialising in professional and studio equipment but also representing high-end audio brands, was celebrating the 40th anniversary of the prestigious French company, Jadis. The Vienna Acoustics Beethoven Concert Grand shared the stage with the Jadis I-50 integrated amplifier in the main room, generating an audio symphony complemented by musical notes from an Oppo DVD player.

Meanwhile, the limited edition Jadis Orchestra 40th Anniversary model takes centre stage in the connecting room, paired with a dynamic Adam studio monitor speaker. They displayed a variety of cables from brands such as Fatiwee, Mogami, and MPS.

351 Obravo  / 金嗓多媒體

The Taiwanese headphone specialist displayed not only their renowned Signature over-ear headphones and premium IEMs, which feature the patented miniaturised AMT tweeter technology, but also delving into the wireless game with their innovative Bluetooth offerings—the Hermes and Mercury. The Mercury features a dynamic 40mm driver paired with a 20mm planar and a 2.5mm balanced output in addition to Bluetooth capabilities, guaranteeing an outstanding audio experience. Meanwhile, its twin, the Hermes, shares features but uses a 20mm air motion transformer instead of the planar, giving audiophiles a choice that is tailored to their specific tastes. I was fortunate enough to hear them, and at the price range they are targeting, it will be a strong challenger. 

352 Homer Horn / 人家概念

Stepping onto the audio stage, Taiwan’s latest sensation, Homer Horn, emerges after a meticulous and extensive development phase. Headed by the visionary Elvis Chang, a multiple award-winning industrial designer and passionate audiophile, the brand introduces a groundbreaking concept—“variable direction independent speakers.” The star of their debut lineup is accompanied by the sleek A820 integrated amplifier and the powerful 825A power amplifier, both sharing a minimalist aesthetic that conceals their versatile capabilities. Notably, the integrated amplifier doubles as a preamplifier, showcasing the brand’s commitment to simplicity and functionality. The design, a testament to Chang’s expertise, speaks volumes, leaving me intrigued and eager to unravel the auditory wonders that Homer Horn promises to deliver

353 HitON Audio

This area is a refuge for DIY enthusiasts, serving as a playground for those who enjoy tinkering with their home audio setup. Enter the world of DIY audio kit products, where you may create your whole audio chain from the ground up. The LP-1 turntable kit and the MH-1 electrostatic headphone kit were unquestionably the show’s headliners, garnering attention and acclaim. The fully set up SFX-101 SET amplifier stood ready for exploration for those who chose to listen before crafting. This room was more than just about audio; it was an invitation to build, customise, and completely personalise your music experience.

356 LA Audio

Another Taiwanese treasure in the realm of tube audio, offering a wide range of products at surprisingly affordable prices. The listening experience ranges from single speaker sets to well-crafted headphone rigs and of course amplifiers. During my visit, the A-60R integrated amplifier were driving their flagship speakers the Monarch and the Pro-2 CD player.

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.

If you missed part 1 of this report, you can read it here!

Gyula Weeber