conrad-johnson
The well regarded ET-2 line pre-amplifier has now been replaced with the ET-3 pre-amplifier. We are awaiting samples but by all accounts this will be a big improvement in sound quality for the same price, £3700. We will report further when listening tests have been completed.
conrad-johnson
website
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Furutech
We are pleased to be stocking, and selling, the new UK wall sockets. These are made to the highest quality ever seen for a wall socket and all the metal parts that matter are made from solid copper plated with either gold or rhodium. They are easy to fit, exactly replacing the existing single or double conventional UK wall socket. With the double socket, a jumper will be required from one socket to the next and a piece of standard twin and earth cable is all that is needed. We have done a few now and the result on the sound of a good system is nothing short of startling. Better frequency extension at both ends of the spectrum, more transparency revealing more detail and a deeper soundstage. See Cables section for full prices.
It sounds like snake oil but the Furutech Nano Fluid really does work. This is the first contact enhancer that we have tried that actually does produce a better sound. Nano sized particles of gold and silver suspended in a fluid that, when coated onto a metal part will fill in the imperfections of the surface with conductive material. This enlarges and enhances the surface area and electrons flow more easily from one metal part to another. It seems expensive for a small bottle but it truly goes a long way. Several medium to large systems can be treated with one pot; some customers club together to buy a bottle and share the cost.
Nano Fluid Contact Enhancer £127.95
Furutech cables website
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Harmonic Resolution Systems (HRS)
The new M3X isolation bases offer a small but useful improvement to their effectiveness on sound. Bass is tighter and backgrounds appear blacker enhancing transparency and detail. Prices remain the same as for the M3 bases - see Cables & Accessories section for full details and pricing.
The new R1 isolation base offers a less expensive way into the HRS effect and looks very much the part. Lighter in weight than its S1 and M3 stablemate but can accommodate a wider range of equipment loads for each of the compliant feet chosen. These bases start from £995. See Stands and Sound Enhancers section for pricing.
The Damping plates are now available in silver anodised finish as well as the usual black. There is a new thicker Damping Plate called DPX with offer more mass and even greater resonance absorption. This development came about because a few customers experimented with double plates, one on top of the other, achieving good results. HRS developed the DPX system for these requirements. Available to order in black or silver - see Stands and Sound Enhancers for full pricing.
Harmonic Resolution Systems website
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Nagra
We now have the long awaited Nagra BPS battery powered phono stage. This tiny item has marvelous sound for the money. Not quite up to the sonic level of the truly excellent VPS, our reference phono stage for any price point, but much has trickled down into this miniature form. Do not let size fool you; the BPS offer a large and deep soundstage with a very transparent, detailed sound. Not harsh or analytical but very, very musical. Several loading modules come as standard; non standard modules are available to order. A special introductory price of £1650 makes this a vinyl lover's high end bargain. What's more is that you do not need a costly power cord to enhance it!
conrad-johnson
We are pleased to announce that we are once again representing many of the Audiofreaks portfolio of high-end audio brands
We have re-evaluated the current range of conrad-johnson amplification and have found that their valve designs have reverted to the sound that they have been justifiably famous for. Whilst well known for the quality that their flagship products such as the GAT pre-amplifier and the LP140M mono amplifiers produce, their range includes many good value pre- and power amplifiers at lower prices which also have their trade-mark sound.
conrad-johnson
website
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Avalon Acoustics
The Avalon Acoustics range of loudspeakers still is amongst the very best that the high-end audio market offers.
We are pleased to have a UK exclusive on the new, radically designed Aspect loudspeaker. This is a design statement both in terms of its appearance, no longer just another “box”, and its sound. This speaker brings the Avalon high level of sound quality down into a more affordable package. We have been pleasantly surprised by how good the inexpensive entry level speakers from Avalon are. The NP2.0 floorstander offers a huge 3-dimensional sound from a small cabinet. A remarkable achievement from this company with a very lucid and coherent sound.
Avalon Acoustics website
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Zanden Audio Systems
The Zanden Audio Systems range of products is justifiably famous for its sound. A special series of products for the most discerning audiophile.
We have on demonstration the 2500S CD player which is probably the best sounding single chassis CD replay we have heard. Certainly one of the most “analogue” sounding of CD players with a very natural, organic quality to it. Other items from the Zanden range can be made available for audition by special arrangement – please contact us for details.
Zanden Audio Systems website
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Karan Acoustics
Karan Acoustics electronics continue to get better all the time not only in terms of their sound quality but their build quality and finish are now of the highest standard and compare to the best in the world.
A very natural sound for a solid state design and would compare favourably with some of our other high-end brands. Well worth a listen and a worthy addition to any audition in their respective price points.
Karan Acoustics website
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Nagra
Nagra have just launched their latest new addition to their amplifier range, the MSA. This has the same small chassis design as their CD players, phono stage and pre-amplifiers.
A lovely looking product in the typical Nagra style and would partner their pre-amplifier very well. It produces an exceptional sound and, although only 60wpc into 8 ohms, the sound-stage is large, transparent and very dynamic. I can be bridged or bi-amped at the flick of a switch which makes it exceedingly flexible in terms of an upgrade programme.
Nagra website
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Furutech Cables
Furutech are extremely well known for making the best and finest sounding connectors in the audio business.
They also make some exceedingly fine sounding cables. With distribution of all their products now with one company, we are pleased to add these cables to our already highly selected cable brands. The one character to these cables is almost their lack of character! Their sound is very neutral, very transparent at all price points with tight focus of images and capable of producing deep sound-stages. All cables come with their own connectors which adds to the purity of their sound. A good range of prices to suit most budgets that includes a very fine set of power cords that are probably amongst the best we have heard.
Furutech cables website
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Leben
Leben has been a tremendous success story for us. One of the most musical sounding brands we do and one of the most consistent sellers.
The new valve pre-amplifier, the RS-100, is a very special sound for the price. It runs very close in quality to their more expensive pre-amplifier at less than half the price. Well worth a listen.
We are anticipating a step up transformer to go with their RS-30 phono stage later this year which will make it easier to use with high quality MC cartridges.
Leben Hifi website
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Archive 2009
Accuphase E-350/E-450

Significant improvements in the design of these new integrated amplifiers, such as the innovative volume control, are very audible.
The novel AAVA-II volume control completely does away with variable resistors in the signal path, producing
superb sound quality at any volume setting. E-350 100w/8ohms £3495; E-450 180w/8ohms £4600.
Accuphase
website
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HRS SXR Audio Frame and Isolation Bases

HRS have designed a more affordable and
clever modular equipment support system.
The frames are infinitely expandable, both in terms of height and width. Used with the new S1 Isolation bases, the SXR system offers a 40% reduction in price on their reference
MXR version whilst maintaining a high proportion of their performance. Example prices: SXR-1719 3 tier frame £2600; S1-1719 Isolation base £875.
Harmonic Resolution Systems website
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Nagra DAC

Possibly the ultimate DAC, providing 192 kHz/24 bit up sampling to all incoming signals; 16 bit signals from regular CDs convert to a smoother, more elegant sound.
Transparency is greatly increased and sound stage expands
in depth. Incorporating an Adaptive Time Filtering module from Anagram Technologies, input and output clocks are kept complete independent eliminating jitter. From £7850
Nagra website
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Rountree OmniMon 1
Combining an omni-directional driver, covering the lower 2/3 of the frequency range, and a ribbon tweeter providing a focused, mono-polar output for the upper 1/3 of the audible range.
The cabinet is made from a proprietary low mass material that stores minimal energy. The result is a non-boxy, very “real” soundstage with great depth and transparency. £6600.
Rountree Acoustics website
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Ypsilon CDT 100
This new CD player/transport from the high-end Greek manufacturer is absolutely stunning to look at.
The sound is no less stunning with a large, holographic sound stage. Their 24 bit DAC chip, with no oversampling, produces a high level of transparency but with an “analogue” sound. Probably a new reference player at this price point. £11000.
Archive 2008
Esoteric SA-60

This new Universal player from Esoteric represents remarkable value for money.
The sound and the build quality are what you would expect from this special manufacturer. Not quite the sound you get from the X-03 but not far behind. This player stands up extremely well when compared to other competitive brands at the same or higher prices. SA-60 £3495.
Esoteric
website
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Spectral Audio DMA-160

The new amplifier from Spectral offers remarkable precision and control in an affodable package.
A true improvement over the already superb DMA-150, this new amplifier has a smoother sound and projects a larger sound-stage than its predecessor. Very holographic, very transparent with fine details easily perceived. The high current delivery and ultra wide band width will ensure the very best sound is produced from any quality loudspeaker it is coupled with. DMA-160 £5950.
Spectral Audio
website
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HRS Nimbus Damping

A completely new way of controlling chassis resonances.
These damping items are so effective in reducing unwanted resonances in all electonic items that the effect is as if you have just upgraded to a much higher level of equipment. Improved transparency, lower levels of distortion (you did not know you were listening to these distrotions anyway until you remove them), resulting in a more natural and more 3-dimensional sound. For a more detailed description of how they work and how to apply them, see the HRS section under the Stands and Accessories section. These items offer remarkable value in terms of the large sonic benefits they produce for what they cost. Nimbus couplers and spacer from £64 each; damping plates from £75 each; record weight £132.
Harmonic Resolution Systems website
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Accuphase C-2000/A-30

Introducing an Accuphase pre-power combination to our portfolio with one of their legendary pure Class A amplifiers.
With the success we have had with their integrated amplifiers, we are now pleased to present this pre-power amplifier combination. The sound of this well known Japanese high-end manufacturer is highly regarded around the world and it so easy to appreciate why with this combination. The pre-amplifier has their new, unique volume control circuit which together with the pure Class A amplifier results in unprecedented levels of transparency and depth of soundstage. Customers who hear these items often asked if this is a valve amplifier design - which we are taking as a great compliment on their sound. C-2000 pre-amplifier £3500; A-30 Class A power amplifier £2995.
Accuphase website
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Peak Consult Incognito X
The sound from this two-way design has to heard to be believed.
The bass extention and the high level of transparency is way beyond what you would expect a simple design to be capable of delivering. Remakable phase coherence, fast and even repsonse right across the frequency range and they deliver large, 3-dimensional soundstages. Coupled with the correct ancilliary equipment, this speaker offers a perfomance level that would be expected at a much higher price. As with all Peak Consult loudspeakers, the cabinet workmanship and finish are amongst the best available. Incognito X £9750.
Archive 2007
Accuphase DP-500

This Japanese manufacturer has a long history, some 33 years, and manufacturers some of the most respected CD players in the high-end business.
Around the world, their equipment is used as references for others to be judged against. Their sound has a smooth tonal balance without any bloom, producing a very transparent and deep soundstage. The new DP-500 (pictured) integrated player is now with us and we are currently the only one demonstrating it in the UK. This replaces the already superb DP-67 and features a new custom designed stiffened drawer and transport mechanism. Initial listening tests reveal a very open, transparent soundstage – a joy to listen to and well worth the extra premium being asked for over the DP-67.
Accuphase website
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Ayre MX-R mono amplifiers

We are proud to be the first and currently the only dealer demonstrating these superb amplifiers from this successful US manufacturer.
The chassis is made from a solid aluminium block and acts like a huge heat sink. It is machined to give an appearance unlike any other amplifier. Each mono amplifier has a small foot print measures only 280 (w) x 440 (d) x 100mm (h). Producing 300wpc/8ohms, 600wpc/4ohms, they break the mould in terms of power output for their size. There is a total naturalness to their sound with superb control of dynamics, both macro and micro.
Ayre website
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Goldmund Telos 200

A Swiss company world renowned for innovative, no compromise design philosophy.
They are at the fore-front of analogue and digital technology with research facilities that help keep them ahead of other major manufacturers. All components are sourced and assembled in Switzerland and are of the highest order. The sound of all their components is very natural, extremely transparent, and amongst the most holographic we have experienced. We have been fortunate to experience the sound of their Telos 200 mono amplifiers and, together with their Mimesis 27.3 pre-amplifier, they make a reference system. Like the Ayre MX-r mono amplifiers they break the size/performance barrier; each amplifier measures only 240 (w) x 360 (d) x 200mm (h) delivering high current power.
Goldmund website
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Nagra CD player

Their very first CD player from this long established, 55 years, world leading brand has just been launched and we are very privileged to have the first one in the UK.
In a word, the sound from this diminutive player is stunning. Unlike any other CD player we have heard, at any price, in its sheer musicality, correct tonal balance, transparency and detail. This sounds like the best analogue replay systems with very large and, especially, deep soundstages. It is particularly apparent how good this player is on the tonal qualities of well recorded violins and piano, which up until now has been somewhat hit and miss with CD players. Hearing it is likely to change many serious listener's perceptions about digital replay’s capabilities and is a must listen in our opinion. Not cheap but the best never is. See our Digital Replay section for full price details
Nagra website
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Peak Consult Princess
This Danish loudspeaker manufacturer makes probably the finest, most natural sounding speakers we have heard.
They are capable of producing very large soundstages with very accurate imaging and a high level of transparency. Already world renown for producing high end reference products, we are pleased to present the new Princess. It is a slim floor-standing design, occupying only 21 x 32cm on the floor. A two way design with an extremely linear response but with a bass and high frequency extension that you would normally expect from larger speaker. With extensively damped cabinets, each one weighing 42kg, there are 3 solid wood finishes; ash, rosewood and walnut. Priced from £6500, this is speaker that needs to be partnered with ancillary equipment of commensurate quality and then it is a revelation to experience such a sound.
Please click on the loudspeaker image for full image
Peak Consult website
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Aesthetix Rhea phono stage
This is one of the best phono stages we have ever had the experience of listening to.
A very large soundstage with the best layering of the depth we have ever heard. A very natural tonal balance and not too warm for a valve design. Transparency is of a very high level allowing the finest details and nuances of music to be heard. The precision of focus of the images is noteworthy. The build quality is exceptional with dual mono and fully balanced design through out. Three inputs and four outputs 2 balanced and 2 single ended. Gain and cartridge loading can be done from the remote control whilst the music is playing. There is a built in cartridge demagnetiser which is also activated from the remote control. A must hear for those who want the best from their vinyl replay system. £3175.
Ayre Acoustics K-1 and V-1
This pre-power combination offers an exceptionally high level of transparency and deep soundstage for the price.
With a characteristically sharp focussed image, the fully balanced circuits offer a very natural tonal balance. On a par with the very best amplifiers we have heard. K-1 pre-amplifier £4995. V-1 power amplifier (200wpc) £6495.
Gamut L5 loudspeakers
A very high quality loudspeaker from this well known amplifier manufacturer.
An exceptionally transparent soundstage that has precise imaging and a notable coherence right across the frequency range. The layered, 3-dimensional soundstage is comparable to speakers costing much more. The tweeter extends the frequency response up to 60 KHz; no need for additional, ugly super tweeters! The cabinet work and build quality is of the highest order and would enhance any domestic environment. The curved sides and remarkable internal bracing removes colourations. The richness of the rosewood or maple veneers is greatly enhanced by 11 layers of hand finished lacquer. £5850 Birdseye Maple or Rosewood veneers.
Please click on the loudspeaker image for full image.
Archive 2006
Loyalty Card
The Loyalty Discount Scheme applies to any purchase of new items made over an 18 month period.
At any time during, and up to the end of this period, 5% of the total amount spent can be used against any subsequent new item(s) purchased on a single invoice totalling £800 or more. This scheme does not include second-hand, ex-demonstration equipment or any other promotional offers in place.
Introduce a friend and we will reward you with 5% of his or her first purchase to be redeemed against your next purchase.





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