Magazine Hifi » Show report

SSI 2012

Marc PHILIP — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:54:50 +0000

Tickets are only $15 for the weekend.

It is now possible to buy your ticket online on the Salon Son & Image’s website.

There is no additional administration fee.

The e-ticket is delivered immediately in your email box, simply print it and bring it with you at the show.
This will save you precious time at your arrival at the show.

Includes, conferences, seminars, live show, and about hundred sound rooms to visit.

For more information:
e-mail : info@salonsonimage.com
www.salonsonimage.com

Enjoy the show!

The Salon Son & Image’s mission is to promote high-end audio and video, its brands and its dealer network to the uninitiated as well as among audiophiles who gave birth to this hobby.
By making available in one location all the major brands shopping is easier and allows visitors to listen and compare many systems in optimal conditions that only sound proof hotel guest rooms and boardrooms can offer.

The 25th Salon Son & Image de Montréal

Marc PHILIP — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:56:20 +0000

100% high-fidelity, 100% high-quality
The latest and most sought-after audio/video systems under one roof

The 25th edition of the Salon Son & Image will provide a unique opportunity for music and high-quality sound enthusiasts to discover the latest devices and equipment and take their passion a notch higher.

SSI 2012

“Visitors will not want to miss this event, which once a year brings together 100 exhibitors presenting some 300 product brands and cutting-edge audio and video systems,” affirms Michel Plante, Salon President. “One of the key elements attracting our visitors is Canada’s global reputation for quality and the number of high-end manufacturers who specialize in audio equipment. In fact, our Salon is the largest and most prestigious of its kind in the country.”

You don’t have to be an audiophile to benefit from a visit to the Salon; all music lovers will find a wide range of information to help them learn more about their hobby or make the best choice if they are in the market for high-fidelity audio and video equipment.

In addition to showcasing high-quality products, the Salon Son & Image offers training sessions and seminars designed to enrich your audio or video experience. For example, you can learn how to calibrate your home theatre receiver or HD television, get info on the best applications to control your system from your iPod, iPad, iPhone or Android, or obtain advice on how to listen to and compare audio systems. You can also join discussions with speaker designers, digital technology experts, and a host of other specialists.

Of particular interest is that the Salon will be held in the comfort of rooms that have been cleared of their furniture at the Hilton Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Montreal (900 de La Gauchetière West, Bonaventure métro). This unique venue offers visitors an exceptional environment and optimal acoustics to appreciate the systems on display.

The Salon Son & Image will be held from Thursday, March 22 to Sunday, March 25, 2012. For just $15, you’ll discover products that may just change the way you listen to music, watch television, or enjoy your favourite films. Reputed technology columnist François Charron also returns as Salon spokesman for the second consecutive year.

Salon hours
Thursday, March 22: 11 am to 6 pm*
(*Trade only day: media, industry professionals, interior designers, architects and developers)
Friday, March 23: 11 am to 9 pm
Saturday, March 24: 10 am to 6 pm
Sunday, March 25: 10 am to 5 pm

Admission valid for entire weekend
Regular price: $15
Seniors (65 +) and students: $10

Please note that tickets can be purchased online at salonsonimage.com.

The Salon Son & Image, organized by Les Nouvelles Éditions Alcyon, aims to promote high-end audio and video and its associated brands and retail network to the general public, music lovers and audiophiles alike. By bringing together top brands and state-of-the art equipment in a single venue, the Salon facilitates and enhances the shopping experience while enabling visitors to discover the systems on display in the optimal acoustics environment offered by isolated rooms in a hotel.

CES 2010 part 2

Marc PHILIP — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 02:47:54 +0000

I have attended the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which is the biggest gathering of the audio, video, photo and electronic industry for amateurs and professionals. There is no competition as to the fact that the Las Vegas’, Nevada, CES is the high mass of our industry and an event not to miss if you want to be in the loop regarding the most innovative products of today and tomorrow. I invite you to follow me through the hallways of the 2010 salon.

Part 2:

For a beautiful start to this second part of the documenting of the CES 2010, I would like to present Parrot design. This is a French team very dedicated to the presentation of their show – a very rare and appreciated attribute.

Enceintes sans fil + station iPod

In 1994, Henri Seydoux founded Parrot with one idea in mind: “Installing a hands-free kit in every car”.
Parrot puts in place the first wired kit for cars in 1998 and its first wireless Bluetooth ® kit in 2001. This is the start of an internationally recognized success.
Henri Seydoux distinguished himself at young age by mastering 3-D imagery.

Parrot design presented a line of mirror picture frames and wireless hi-fi loudspeakers (via Bluetooth ® technology) at the CES 2010.

The sound of the latter immediately struck me and I liked it. Actually it was the sound that made me stop by their stand. It was only a little iPod on a loudspeaker with a very beautiful design and trendy colors, i.e fancy, but elegant.

Phillipe Starck designed these loudspeakers, maybe justifying their design. A long robe flared at the bottom, resembling a musical instrument – everything is permitted, one just has to let their imagination run, it was the declared goal.

Le drone vu par Parrot

I was struck by another surprise on the Parrot stand.
Parrot design diversified by going towards another project representing the prototype of what would be a futuristic quasi virtual videogame. I will explain.

Le drone du virtuel à la réalité, voire l'inverse

The idea is to use an iPod to make a drone, with 4 electric motors, run and transport from real life into a video game décor. The video game scenario is seen through a TV screen. I though the idea was brilliant, just like the other two products of this brand.

The wireless MMS picture frame is set up to receive photos from a cell phone or via internet. It has its own IP address and posts any picture instantly, whether you are on the other side of the planet or anywhere in between, you can share the present emotion with your friends and family. All you have to do is upload your photos and instantly your entourage, far or close, will see the images and live the moment with you – very well thought out.

Moreover, this frame is permanently a mirror, should have thought of it, it seems so obvious. I invite you to check this out by going on their website: http://www.parrot.com/grande-specchio/fr/

Prix d'innovation au CES 2010

As well as the designer, Andrée Putman’s, homepage : http://www.parrot.com/fr/produits/cadres-photos-numeriques/andree-putman

The wireless loudspeaker, 100% transportable, allows you to listen to your music anywhere and at any time. It will easily find its place in your home and will remain mobile. Parrot’s global design is: simplicity, design, and high end technology all in one.

There is nothing else to say then than Bravo! Bravo for providing appliances that can be used by the whole family without any restrictions. This can be called living the “Parrot life style”.

The drone remains the most stunning toy of the presentation.

A personal message from my daughter: hey, Mr, Seydoux, I want one too!

For more information on Parrot, check out www.parrot.com or contact :

PARROT

Vanessa Loury
vanessa.loury@parrot.com
Tel. +33 (0)1 48 03 60 58/ 06 86 56 81 33

PLEON pour Parrot
Céline Cattoen / Aurélie Vinzent
celine.cattoen@pleon.com/aurelie.vinzent@pleon.com
Tel. 01 53 04 23 00

Taiwan Electrets Electronics Co., Ltd.

Here, I stumbled upon a very nice product. These are little speakers, flat and flexible, that are perfect for office use. They work connected to an iPod, computer, or any other portable device. They are modestly loud, with a maximum of about 10 watts, but it is plenty to listen to music at your desk. I can testify, they work really well, otherwise I would not be telling you about them!

Electro Static speaker T E E C

The sound that these panels are able to reproduce is simply mind blowing. They function on the electrostatic principle – current passes on a thin film where miniscule conductors are housed. Even though they are extremely light and require only a few watts to work, they are able to give an astonishing frequency response.

Membrane de haut-parleur ultre fine Electro-Static

At about $100 for the pair and its external amplification system, these speakers are a great start for a small, affordable audio system; especially that they can be placed on a wall, allowing for great space management. It also comes with a small box beam, an indispensable extra.

Taiwan Electrets Electronics Co., Ltd.

Manager Corey Huang
7F-3, No. 9, Prosperity 1st Rd.
Hsinchu Science Park
Hsinchu City 30078
Taiwan (Republic of China)
e-mail : corey@tw-teec.com
Manufacturer Website: www.tw-teec.com

Artemis Labs

made in USA

This analogical turntable manufacturer present an original system based on products made in the USA and of which they were very proud.

Système hifi Artemis CES 2010

The system consisted of :

Platine Artemis Labs SA-1S : 11 000$

Turntable SA-1S Artemis

Platine Artemis Labs SA-1

Turntable Artemis SA-1

Bras Artemis lab : 3500$
Cartouche Artemis Labs T-1 : 2900$
Pre Phono Artemis Labs PL-1S (65db) : 5500$
Pre Phono Artemis Labs PH-1 (55db) : 3500$
Pre Ampli Artemis Labs LA-1 : 3500$
Pre Amplifier Artemis Labs LX-1 : 6500$
Amplificateur Artemis Labs LSP-1 (18 watts) : 18000$
Amplificateur Artemis Labs DP-2 (10 watts) : 10000$

With the current infatuation over digital solutions, who would’ve thought that there still would be a few analogue diehards that would quasi-exclusively manufacture and continuously develop such products.
This is probably the main reason why, other than its products excellent quality, Artemis is discussed in our columns.

I have attentively observed and concluded that in every assembly detail, in particular the tone arm, this is art!

When it came to sound, it was acceptable, enough dynamism to believe it. Actually, I found the overall result very interesting. Taking into account the context, it was the sound to conception qualities that got to me.

Artemis has beautiful devices for experienced and wealthy music lovers.

Artemis Labs

679 E. Easy Street, #E
Simi Valley, CA 93065
United States
e-mail : info@aydn.com
Manufacturer website :www.artemislabs.com

Cable Research Lab, Inc (USA) et LP Alphama loudspeaker (Portugal)

Système CRL et Alphama au CES 2010

This is a successful collaboration between Chip Watson, President of Cable Research Lab, and Luis Pire, Portuguese manufacturer of acoustic speakers LP Alphama. Notice the presence of a Basis Signature analog turntable in the proposed system, very popular at this year’s CES.

Luis Pires presented himself for the first time at the CES with two acoustic speaker models that would hopefully be distributed in our region.
Considering the quality of his product and the realistic price, I am not worried on the success the brand would have.

ALPHAMA

Alphama is a very old region near Lisbonne, but it is also a speaker with 3 closed track-types made by Olissipo (Portugal).
A little history: Olissipo is the Roman name for Lisbon.

Alphama speaker

The loud speaker’s casket is made with an asymmetrical matrix-looking screen that helps reinforce the case while allowing a very homogenous and rich sound, associated with a realistic 3D stereo image.
The assembly and attention to detail is remarkable; a handmade chef-d’oeuvre by a Portuguese cabinet-maker artist.
Notice the appearance: it looks like a string instrument, a cello or bass, should’ve thought of it. I was awed by the amount of attention and care put into the construction of the speakers. I little marvel that I hope will soon be available on the North American market.

Specifications issued by the manufacturer :

Bandwidth – 45 to 30.000 Hz +/- 3dB
Sensitivity – 90, 0 dB
Impedance – 8 ohms nominal, 4 ohms minimal
Tweeter – 25 mm, dual ring radiator
Midrange – Two 4, 0 inch, paper cone
Woofers – 6, 5 inch, paper cone
Dimensions & Weights
WxDxH – 220x3000x900 mm
Weight – 30 Kg each
Finish
Satin black lacquer
Accessories
Connectors – Patented Cardas vise type design

The sales price of the Alphama model should be around $9,500.00, while the Olissipo model would be somewhere around $21,000.00.

Alphama en détail

Notez la longue pointe effilée avant sous la ligne du woofer, le concepteur de cette enceinte a tout compris lui aussi en ce qui trait au couplage.

Notice the long and sharp point below the front line of the woofer. The designer of this loud speaker has also understood their coupling concept.

Cable Research Lab, Inc.

Specialists in cable manufacturing, these are also made in the USA.

Best design pour LP Alphama speaker, Portugal.

Cable Research Lab presented its new line of cables and loud speakers at the same time.

This new series was developed in close collaboration with no other than Winston Ma, from First Impression Music, an audiophile’s disc label that we are particularly fond of at our magazine. We regularly use some of the K2 CDs as reference.
We find here a creation made of OCC copper and Bocchino connectors.

This cable series will be available on the market as of March 2010. One pair of 1-meter long interconnects will be priced at $4,750.00 (U.S.), and loud speaker cables of 1.8 meters or 6” will go for $4,500.00 (U.S.).
Obviously, it is also possible to order any length you want.

Cable Research Lab, Inc.

Président : Chip Winston
236A Commercial Blvd.
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
United States
Phone: (954) 491-4705
e–mail: sales@cableresearchlab.com

Manufacturer’s Website :www.cableresearchlab.com

Oracle Audio Technologies

We will remain in the topic of beautiful things and come back to Canada since Oracle is a company housed in Sherbrooke, Quebec, about one hour from our house. Ironically, we had to travel thousands of kilometers for us to see them and speak to them.

Système Oracle avec la nouvelle Delphy MK VI

Oracle presented its MkVI version of its famous Delphy analog turntable. A little jewel manufactured to perfection with an audacious design that did not age the least little bit throughout its years.

Oracle Delphy MK VI

The improvements were especially made regarding its power supply and the operating system as well as the vibration management, which we know is essential.

Oracle Audio Technologies

6136 Bertrand Fabi Blvd.
Suite 101
Sherbrooke, Quebec J1N 2P3
Canada
Tel.: 819.864.0480
Fax.: 819.864.9641
e-mail : info@oracle-audio.com
Manufacturer’s Website : http://oracle-audio.com

Musical Surroundings

Set up

Garth B. Leerer, presiding over the destiny of Musical Surroundings, did things in a grand manner and did not hesitate to book many demo stations on the 29th floor of the Venetian. All his booths paid a vibrant tribute to analog turn table, especially their arms, cells and discs.

Bras de lecture

But if I were to sum up the master piece, it is without a doubt the turntable that thrones over them all, a sublime Clearaudio Innovation Wood listed at 10 000$.

It was by far one of my favorites, having one of the most beautiful analog architectures of the CES 2010.

Platine Innovation Wood de Clearaudio

It was equipped with :

Tangeantial arm TT2 : 9500$
Cartouche DaVinci v2 : 5500$
Phono stage Aesthetix Rhea Signature : 7000$
Amplificateur Aesthetix Atlas : 8000$

Second système de Musical Surroundings au CES 2010

Musical Surroundings

Président : Garth B. Leener
5662 Shattuck Ave
Oakland, CA 94609
United States
e-mail : garth@musicalsurroundings.com
Manufacturer’s website :www.musicalsurroundings.com

Manley Laboratories Inc.

It is with pleasure that we find a Manley electronics demo centered around Gershman Sonogram loudspeakers, beautiful, good and not too expensive, topped by the fact that they were built in Canada.

Manley set up, CES 2010

Manley has actually brought it’s entire Tube electronics line to the show, that makes for a lot of stuff to travel around! They offered alternating listening sessions of a Rega Cd Player and a 3400$ iPod Stingray iTube station. Those were matched with an integrated StingrayII amplifier delivering an honorable 40W / channels.

Like usual, the Cd player has shown to be more alert then the iPod, I am still convince that it is the DAC that should make a difference when the signal is coming either from a server or an iPod. Otherwise you end up having sound but it is very ordinary. Can we still dream of a simple device, inexpensive and user friendly that could be playing good quality music without breaking the bank? I hardly believe that our Cd players sill have very good days ahead. That’s until I am proven wrong of course.

I also remember the catastrophic demo of Audio Centre at the Montreal show in 2005. They tried to make us believe that the iPod could be as good as a 14000$ CD player. It was simply pitiful.

At Manley’s everyone there were either touching or peaking at all the equipment on display. Not everyone liked their complex design but Manley has always been able to conquer the market and pin point clients that were preoccupied by the their robust look and good sound.

Manley électroniques à tubes

I have to admit that sound quality was really there but a stylish kit in a 19th century decor…not sure at all!

EveAnna Manley is now at the head of the California business and does not intend to stop there…

Manley Laboratories Inc.

Vacuum Tube Displinarian : Chris Dauray
13880 Magnolia Ave.
Chino, CA 91710
United States
Web Site : www.manleylabs.com

Pass Laboratories

As soon as I walked in the room, I was plunged in the mood of the room. Here they were standing there on each side of the room, two impressive stack-up of amplifiers. Very nice and impressive!

The middle space was used to statically expose new electronics and speakers.

Le pré phono XP-25 à double chassis à 10 600$
L’amplificateur intégré Pass Labs INT-30A à 7150$.

The back end room housed a very musical system with an impressive base reproduction, stunning when you see the space between the rear wall and the speakers ,the volume was not very loud but i twas impressive.

This system is part of the most interesting demos have seen and heard at the CES this year
I never had interest for Pass Lab speakers in the past until then. It is subject to change since their potential is huge.
Le système :

phono line stage XP-25
Analog turntable Basis Signature, Vector M4 arm vibration free
Double monobloc X.5
CD/SACD Marantz SA-11
Kimber cable.

Pass Laboratories

Sales manager : Joseph P Sammut III
24449 Foresthill Road
Foresthill, CA 95631
United States
Site du manufacturier :http://www.passlabs.com

Next part of CES 2010 report is in progress, thank you to your patience

information

Las Vegas CES 2010

Visited the web site of CES organisation : http://www.cesweb.org

This article has been written by Marc PHILIP, independent editor and reviewer, all rights reserved, copyright 2010, the text and photos are the property of the author and the magazine,under the creative commons license.

Have a great day and enjoy the music.

Show HIGH END® 2010

Marc PHILIP — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:10:34 +0000

HIGH END® 2010 (6th – 9th May 2010) : The trend towards “slowing down”

High end Society

A slower pace and more enjoyment with music?

For some time now, trend scouts, emotional analysts and leisure researchers everywhere have all been reporting the same trend, whereby our society is turning its back on the increasingly complicated and accelerated pace of life which is involuntarily
forced on us by external influences.

Information overload and the ever-increasing speed of life seem to be the reasons for more and more people returning to a slower pace and reflecting on the fundamental values of being.

This occurs mostly subconsciously and gradually but nevertheless it is constant and persistent: “slowing down” is the key phrase, and “doing nothing” is no longer considered abject time-wasting.

However, it is more often that we have just forgotten how to “live” because we cannot withdraw from the increasing pace of everyday life, or at least we think we are not able to.
Therefore, the desire to rediscover a slower way of life and a better quality of life is also growing.

People’s desire to relax has always played a major role in advertising. First energy drinks were all the rage, now the so-called anti-stress drinks are on the rise in the USA.

The relaxing lemonade is supposed to induce a feeling of holiday and lower the pulse rate with ingredients such as chamomile and valerian. The implication is that relaxation comes in the form of a drink.
Well-being² now as a liquid.
Well-being within your own four walls, on the other hand, is very easy and uncomplicated.

Music is the synonym for it. Nowadays, we can benefit from the healing effects of good music playback, which only a few years ago could only be marvelled at as science fiction.
Rather like music as Well-being on Tour.

A survey conducted by Shell, which examined the interests and values of young people, states that listening to music is by far the most popular leisure activity in the 12–25 year old age group. Music is everywhere and the image of someone listening to music
with earphones and the MP3 player in the jacket pocket is everywhere you look.
The development of the mobile music player also offers a versatility when listening to music which was unthinkable just a few years ago.

Hundreds of hours of music fit on to a small device where untold numbers of CDs or records were needed in the past. The presence of music and its accessibility continues to rise.

No other branch of the economy has responded to the digital challenge like the music industry. The number of download dealers is continuously rising and user-friendliness is constantly being optimised.

According to a study conducted in 2008 by Pricewaterhouse Coopers and the IFPI (PWC Global Entertainment and Media Report), already 20 percent of the revenue is obtained from the new digital sales forms and business models. The number of downloads has increased six-fold in five years.

Music is not only the most frequently used broadband in the Internet, but also the most important form of entertainment of our day at 51%, far more than TV (27%) and cinema (10%).

According to the annual report of the German association of the music industry (Bundesverband Musikindustrie), since 1995 there has been an increase of 21% in the daily consumption of music in the audio formats LP, CD and mp3 alone – and the trend is rising!

Four out of ten Germans buy music at least once a year. They purchase one to three music products a year and make up 25.9% of the population. While many countries are struggling with a two-digit drop in sales, the German music market is stable in
comparison.

Out of the five largest music markets in the world, Germany is the only country that was able to increase its share of the world market. Behind all these business models is the fact that music not only remains one of the most popular entertainment products but contributes in a major way to the sales of other products and services, due to its high level of emotionalisation. It shows that people can barely do without music.

However, just as the availability of information through digital media is not a claim to being wise, the omnipresence of music is by no means an indication of the quality of consumer’s active and conscious experience. In fact, the availability of music tempts us to take it for granted and listen to it arbitrarily.

Music is consumed just like fast food, whether you are in the pedestrian area, on the bus, on the train, out shopping or jogging. There is no time or peace and quiet to listen and enjoy your own special music properly. But the “good old” stereo system does not have to suffer, quite the contrary.
Those of you who want to listen to music at home, which does not sound “annoying” and “irritating” will sooner or later find your way to a good sound system with uncompressed signal sources – provided that you have had the chance to listen to music in good quality.

“A treat for the ears and the mind”.

As we all know, you can always go one step better.

The “better” high-quality systems are not distinguished by being louder, or producing more treble or bass. A high-quality system usually draws attention to itself by being unspectacular and inconspicuous. Once you have become accustomed to it, you realise that such a system enables effortless listening without being overpowering or irritating. This person goes through a learning phase which is quite similar to appreciating a good wine.

Here you usually begin with “loud” sweet wines until your palate starts detecting differences and your taste matures. A better sound quality can also be heard listening to the radio, as whenever a piece of music seems “unobtrusive and quiet”, there is
considerably more substance at its core than in music that is loud, raw and therefore overpowering.

Sensual pleasure, pausing for thought and the joy of beautiful music or a captivating melody are completely individual. Music that really moves you has to be found first.
Then any sound system is able to produce musical pleasure in its own way. But how overwhelming can music really be? The same as a visit to the opera or a live concert?

Consciously experiencing and enjoying music instead of just unthinkingly consuming it as an accompanying noise to an increasingly loud world of images leads you to automatically develop a special appreciation of high-quality entertainment electronics.

The Leading Trade Fair for Outstanding Stereo, TV and Home Cinema Equipment

Location: M,O,C, Munich, Lilienthalallee 40, 80939 München-Freimann
Duration: 06th – 09th of May 2010
Trade Day: Thursday, May 06th 2010 (only by pre-registration)
Open: From 10am – 6pm
Entrance fee
Trade visitors: 20,- Euro with pre-registration (the badge is valid for all days)
Public: 10,- Euro / day
20,- Euro / family ticket (for 2 adults and up to 3 children)
Show Guide: Up from April 2010 available

Show-Organiser:

HIGH END SOCIETY MARKETING GMBH
Hatzfelder Strasse 161 – 163
42281 Wuppertal-Germany
Telephone: +49 202.70.20.22
Telefax: +49 202.70.37.00
E-Mail: info@HighEndSociety.de
Internet: www.HighEndSociety.de

2010 CEA Awards

Marc PHILIP — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:53:55 +0000

CEA ANNOUNCES FINALISTS FOR 2010 MARK OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Awards Highlight Most Innovative Products in Custom Home Technology

Arlington, Va., February 24, 2010 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® today announced the finalists for the 2010 Mark of Excellence Awards, presented by CEA through the association’s TechHome Division. Winners will be announced at an awards reception on Friday, March 26, during the eleventh annual Electronic House Expo (EHX) 2010, which returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, March 25-27.

CEA’s Mark of Excellence Awards honor excellence in innovation and achievement in custom home electronics products, services and installation technologies. Award entries are submitted in Supplier and Systems Integrators categories and reviewed by a panel of industry experts. Each category will feature a platinum and gold level award in recognition of outstanding industry achievement.

The Mark of Excellence Awards Reception will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in room 110A on Friday, March 26 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information on the Mark of Excellence Awards program, or to make a reservation, please visit www.CE.org/MOE or e-mail MarkOfExcellence@CE.org.

The following are finalists for the 2010 Mark of Excellence Awards:

SUPPLIER

Audio Product of the Year

Anthem : Anthem Statement D2v with Anthem Room Correction (ARC) statement.anthemav.com

ELAN Home Systems : D12 – 12 Channel Amplifier elanhomesystem.com

SRS Labs : MyVolume Adaptor www.srslabs.com

Xantech, Inc. : XIS100 www.xantech.com

Control System Product of the Year

Control4 : Control4 Home Controller HC-200 www.control4.com

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : PMC2 Prodigy Media Controller www.crestron.com

Mi Casa Verde, Inc. : Vera www.micasaverde.com

Philips Accessories : Pronto TSU9300 www.pronto.philips.com

Green Product of the Year

APC by Schneider Electric : APC Power-Saving Surge Protector w/ LCD Timer www.apc.com

Green Service or Corporate Policy of the Year

Omnimount : Omnimount Corporate Policy www.omnimount.com

Human Interface Product of the Year

Home Automation, Inc. : OmniTouch 5.7e Touchscreen www.homeauto.com

Meridian America : Meridian Sooloos Digital Media System : www.meridian-audio.com

Remote Technologies, Inc. : U2 Weather-Resistant Controller www.rticorp.com

Universal Remote Control, Inc. : MX-5000 www.universalremote.com

Installation Product of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : DM Tools www.crestron.com

Home Automation, Inc. : Automation Studio www.homeauto.com

Niles Audio Corporation : MS220 High-Fidelity Wideband IR Sensor www.nilesaudio.com

Remote Technologies, Inc. : Integration Designer(R); Software v. 7.1 www.rticorp.com

Xantech, Inc. : Digital Delivery System www.xantech.com

Media Server of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : ADMS Intermedia Delivery System; www.crestron.com

LG Electronics USA : LG Electronics Network Attached Storage www.lge.com

Universal Remote Control, Inc. : PSX-2 Personal Server www.universalremote.com

Multi-Room Audio Video Product of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : PAMP-4X100 Processor Amplifier www.crestron.com

Remote Technologies, Inc.: MRP-64 Multi-Room Control Processor www.rticorp.com

Security Product of the Year

Benolli smart systems : Door Station touch www.benolli.com

Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement : Kwikset SmartCode with Home Connect www.bdhhi.com/accesscontrol

SVAT Electronics : SN500-4CH-002 www.defender-usa.com

Software Application of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : WorldSearch www.crestron.com

eLifespaces : Home Theater Assistant: Designer Lite www.elifespaces.com

Homemanageables : HM Control www.homemanageables.com

Speaker System of the Year

Paradigm Electronics Inc. : Paradigm Special Edition Series www.paradigm.com

Structured Wiring Product of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. DM Cable www.crestron.com

Home Automation, Inc. : Cellular Communication Center (C3) www.homeauto.com

Motorola : Motorola SBG6580 SURFboard Wireless Cable Modem Gateway www.motorola.com

Video Component of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : ADMS Intermedia Delivery SystemTM www.crestron.com

LG Electronics USA : LG Electronics Full HD 1080p Full LED Backlighting 240Hz LCD TV www.lge.com

LG Electronics USA : LG Electronics Network Blu-ray Disc Player www.lge.com

LG Electronics USA : LG Electronics Network Blu-ray Home Theater System www.lge.com

Runco : Runco QuantumColorTM; Q-750d www.runco.com

Video Product of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : DM-MD8X8 DigitalMediaTM; Switcher www.crestron.com

Optoma Technology, Inc. : HD8600 Home Theater Projector www.optomausa.com

Meridian America : Meridian 810 Video Reference System www.meridian-audio.com

Sanus Systems : Sanus Elements ELM410 10-Foot Pivoting HDMI Cable www.sanus.com

Sencore, Inc. : RadianceXETM; Video Processor www.sencore.com

Wireless Product of the Year

Crestron Electronics, Inc. : TPMC-3X Isys i/O®; 2.8; Handheld WiFi Touchpanel www.crestron.com

LG Electronics USA : LG Electronics Network Blu-ray Disc Player www.lge.com

Plantronics : Voyager Pro UC www.plantronics.com

Wilson Electronics : MobilePro Wireless Cellular Amplifier www.wilsonelectronics.com

SYSTEMS INTEGRATOR

Custom Home of the Year (installed price between $35,000 – $100,000)

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Custom Touch www.EDGonline.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Life Of Leisure www.EDGonline.com

Maxsystems, inc : West Hills www.maxsystemsla.com

Time Direct, Inc. : Cribari’s Cabana EnhancedLiving.com

Home of the Year (installed price up to $35,000)

eLifespaces : The Tides www.elifespaces.com

Home Theater/Media Room Project of the Year

1 One Sound Choice, LLC : Mr and Mrs Gorty www.onesoundchoice.com

DSI Entertainment Systems : Esquire House – Best Theater/Media Room www.dsientertainment.com

Hi-Tech Home : Hilarides Theater www.hitechhome.net

Hi-Tech Home : Moats Theater www.hitechhome.net

Innovation Award

DSI Entertainment Systems : Ware project – hidden motorized television www.dsientertainment.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Beacon in the Night www.EDGonline.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Old World Charm www.EDGonline.com

eLifespaces : The Tides www.elifespaces.com

Robert Saglio Audio/Video Design, Inc. : Green Life Smart Life www.robertsaglio.com

The Steven Style Group : 400 West Street www.dreamhometech.com

Integrated Security Project of the Year

Cybermation, Inc. : Scott & Kim Carlson Estate www.cybermationinc.com

eLifespaces : Retreat @ Kiawah www.elifespaces.com

Lighting Control Project of the Year

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Beacon in the Night www.EDGonline.com

ForTech Solutions : Lion Gate www.fortechsolutions.com

eLifespaces : Retreat @ Kiawah www.elifespaces.com

Luxury Home of the Year (installed price between $100,000- $300,000)

DSI Entertainment Systems : Chatauqua – Luxury Home of the Year www.dsientertainment.com

Link Your House, Inc. : Luxury on the Lake www.linkyourhouse.com

eLifespaces : Retreat @ Kiawah www.elifespaces.com

Maxsystems, inc : Richwood www.maxsystemsla.com

Audio One : Trump Building Florida Condo www.audio-one.com

Multi-Room Audio Video Product of the Year

Cybermation, Inc. : Acres of AV www.cybermationinc.com

DSI Entertainment Systems : Fernald Point – Multi-Room AV www.dsientertainment.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Classic Comforts www.EDGonline.com

eLifespaces : Retreat @ Kiawah www.elifespaces.com

Retrofit Project of the Year over $100,000

Cybermation, Inc. : Avon Dynasty Home www.cybermationinc.com

Custom Home Theater Systems & Automation : Ocean Front Guest House www.customhometheater.biz

Retrofit Project of the Year under $100,000

1 One Sound Choice, LLC : Mr and Mrs Gorty www.onesoundchoice.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Custom Touch www.EDGonline.com

ForTech Solutions : Lion Gate www.fortechsolutions.com

SoundVision : Bonino Residence www.svsf.com Time Direct, Inc.

Retro California EnhancedLiving.com

Ultimate Home of the Year (installed price above $300,000)

DSI Entertainment Systems Fernald Point – Ultimate Home of the Year www.dsientertainment.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc.

Brookside : www.EDGonline.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Classic Comforts www.EDGonline.com

Electronics Design Group, Inc. : Old World Charm www.EDGonline.com

TECHHOME

TechHome Integrator of the Year

DSI Entertainment Systems www.dsientertainment.com

Hi-Tech Home www.hitechhome.net

Sound Concepts www.mysoundconcepts.com

SoundVision www.svsf.com

TRAINING AND SUPPORT Training and Support Program of the Year

RH Strategic : Vantage Advanced Training Curriculum www.vantagecontrols.com

About EHX

Electronic House Expo, a Tradeshow Week magazine Fastest 50 event for five years running, is the fastest growing trade event of the $13 billion custom electronics industry. Held annually and sponsored by CEA’s TechHome Division, EHX attracts a large and dynamic audience of custom electronics integrators, retailers and allied trades to interact with leading suppliers of audio/video entertainment, digital convergence, networking and communications, comfort and control, and security and electrical products.

For more information, visit www.ehxweb.com.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $165 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry.
More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships.
CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Digital Music Forum East
February 23-24, 2010, New York, NY
Greener Gadgets
February 25, 2010, New York, NY
EHX Spring 2010
March 24-27, 2010, Orlando, FL
CES on the Hill
April 20-21, 2010, Washington, DC
Digital Patriots Dinner
April 21, 2010, Washington, DC
LA Games Conference
April 29, 2010, Los Angeles, CA
CEO Summit and Board Retreat
June 16-19, 2010, Ojai, CA
CEA Line Shows
June 22-23, 2010, New York, NY
2010 SINOCES
July 8-11, 2010, Qingdao, China
2010 CEA Industry Forum
October 17-20, 2010, San Francisco, CA

CES 2010 part 1

Marc PHILIP — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:58:30 +0000

The CES this year was held in Las Vegas (Nevada) from January 6th to the 10th – but you knew this already, otherwise you wouldn’t be here!

Hôtel de Las Vegas le jour

The C.E.S (Consumer Electronics Show) is the biggest gathering for the audio, video, photography, and electronics industry for both the general public and professionals.

One can easily say that the CES is to our industry as Mass is to church. This is the place to be to see and hear all about the break through equipment of today and tomorrow – it is an event not to be missed, and we were there.

Hôtel de Las Vegas la nuit

A few words on Las Vegas

It’s big and beautiful.
Big, not just in the humongous sense, it’s more than that; it is gigantic, immoderate, and exuberant.

Hôtel casino de nuit à Las Vegas en 2010

Constantly active, 24/7, as night comes along immense luminous panels light up on practically all main axes of the city. As a matter of fact, Las Vegas Boulevard is decorated with the most beautiful hotels and casinos of the city.

Hôtel de Las Vegas la nuit

The cleanliness and silent traffic are two of the aspects that struck me the most as I left the airport.

Diesel engines are reserved for buses and trucks, all other vehicles run gracefully on gasoline or are hybrid (although in minority) – but all sounds on main roads, just like at the exit of the airport, are muffled.
Everything is organized around getting the new-comer to his or her entertainment destination, i.e. casinos. Buses and cabs are permanently accessible.

Since the bus is only $6.50, as opposed to a $20 cab-ride for the same trip, you can imagine that it is the most popular mean of transportation. This generates long lines that never end at rush hour.
If you want to pay less, then you’ll be waiting and taking the bus.
If you want a cab, you will have to pay the price, but you are guaranteed a faster trip. In addition, there is the limo option for more comfort at $60. It’s as you want.

Same for food – it’s either 7 or 8$ for fast food, $ 20 at a main stream restaurant, or a $60 minimum for all other higher end restaurants.
Point being, rest assured – you will always have choice as long as you are responding to the omnipresent incentive to consume, especially when it comes to gaming and sex.

On the other hand, everyone is constantly being watched in the streets and through cameras – giving a safe feel to the place. The police are present, but discrete and effective.

Introduction to “my” CES 2010

The title says it all, not because I am trying to take credit for the show, but because this is the show as I saw it; the CES as I lived it for 4 days, on my feet 90% of the time.
This is all to say that there were many journalists on site, and each will present their views. I could bet that no two people will report on the same topics, or at least it will be approached from different angles – a great thing for readers eager for a variety of views and photos.

We were all there (millions of us) to check out hundreds of manufacturers gathered from all around the world to present their products. These ranged from simple iPhone and iPod accessories to more complex high tech solution systems for Mac and PC, automobiles, miscellaneous gadgets, photography equipment, 3D television, high end audio, and much more.

Don’t forget that for many of the exhibitors, this show was an opportunity to get out on the economic crisis that started in 2009. This was demonstrated in the fierce desire for many to push the boundaries and innovate.

How? Through colors, shapes, and an enthusiastic attitude.

Some should use this difficulty to their advantage to find a dose of inspiration… if you know what I mean.

Without a doubt, the current and future envisioned trends at the CES 2010 were clearly displayed:

• 3D television
• iPod/iPhone and accessories
• Wireless
• High tech multicolor accessories
• Laptops, netbooks, and ultra mobile PCs
• Data storage
• Battery solutions for mobile phones and computers
• GPS
• Environmental awareness and green products

I noticed a strong Asian representation (Chinese and Korean) in various areas such as the TechZone parc.

The Organization

Everything was thought out such that every visitor – whether a businessman, here out of curiosity, or a press representative – could easily navigate their way around and find exactly what they were looking for.

The Convention Centre was the “central nervous system”, where we could find most of the exhibitions and the press room over 3 floors.
There were free shuttle buses at our disposal from there to the Venetian or Hilton.

There were information desks all throughout the corridors and volunteers with yellow caps on which was written “Ask Me”.

It could not have been any easier.

What caught my attention

Note to the readers: some of the exhibitors distinguished themselves from others by their design, technical innovation, or audio performances (where it applied). To identify them, a particular tag was designated to them.
I forced myself to a neutral and childlike outlook on all the exhibitions. Without asking myself many questions, I was charmed by a number of products just from what they represented: nothing other than the enthrallment of discovery and the delight of a moment. It is with this outlook that I invite you to rediscover the endless corridors of the Las Vegas 2010 CES with me.

If you will, we will begin this “CES 2010 tour” with the letter A. It also happens to be the first of my favorites in the “innovation” category.

A.D.N Acoustics

Haut-parleurs ADN, Barcelone (Espagne)

This loudspeaker manufacturer came straight from Barcelona (Spain) to present us with an audacious and beautifully successful line.
It was their first Las Vegas CES participation and they were located at the corner of the hallway leading the press room on the 2nd floor of the Venetian.

Prix d'innovation au CES 2010

Not only was there technical conception extremely interesting due to the melted aluminum pieces they used that they then shaped into an interlocked stratum, but the sound was spot on. It would obviously be better to judge the sound in more favorable conditions, but the speakers have a really great potential.

Extremely detail oriented, the sound provided a beautifully balanced tone while also providing appreciably subjective dynamics. The stereo image was large and of realistic height – a rare quality in “show” conditions, especially for used electronics with nothing of a high end line. The CD player Raysonic, which we had the pleasure to test, did not especially enthrall us due to a lack of a large extent of dynamism and true tone qualities, but still, played well.

I am absolutely convinced that this manufacturer will be talked about all over the world, if I trust my guts; especially when having gone back on Sunday, I particularly wanted to listen to music on this piece.

ADN system

The people from ADN were extremely charming and considerate with all the visitors, patiently answering all the questions, and believe me, there were many.

Vue des pièces en aluminium non assemblées

Notice the particularity of each casted piece and the reproduced relief inside the speaker, all to effectively focus the stationary sound waves. This casket assembly guarantees an absolute rigidity, and therefore, leads to no or little energy loss – should’ve thought of it.

For a first, this is a master stroke, bravo!

Vue éclatée du squelette de l'enceinte acoustique ADN

A.D.N Acoustics

Web site : www.adnacoustics.com

Este fabricante de altavoces llegó directamente de Barcelona (España) para presentarnos una línea al diseño audaz y logrado; es su primera participación al CES, se situaban al ángulo del pasillo que llevaba a la sala de prensa al nivel 2 del Venetian.

No sólo la concepción técnica es de las más interesantes, por el uso de partes coladas en aluminio masivo, ajustadas entre ellas en forma de capas imbricadas, sino que el sonido es también a la cita, con serias reivindicaciones; sin embargo sería por supuesto necesario pasar por escuchas en situación más favorable, pero el potencial es real.

Muy detallado, en el contexto, el sonido presentaba no obstante un hermoso equilibrio tonal ofreciendo al mismo tiempo una dinámica subjetiva apreciable, oportuna, la imagen estéreo era amplia, y de una altura realista, cosa rara en “show”, sobre todo respecto al material electrónico utilizado, que no tenía nada de gama alta, en particular el lector de Cd Raysonic que habíamos tenido la oportunidad de probar y que no nos había entusiasmado; le faltaba entonces una dinámica ancha y de verdaderas calidades de timbre; no obstante sonaba bien.

Estoy íntimamente convencido de que se hablara pronto de aquel fabricante, si me fío a mi intuición del momento y el domingo antes de mi salida, fue uno de los lugares donde tuve ganas de escuchar música.

Los encargados de ADN fueron encantadores y atentos con todos los visitantes, quienes fueran, al contestar a todas las preguntas que se les planteaban y las había muchas, créenme.

Notaran la particularidad de cada pieza moldeada, tengan en cuenta al relieve reproducido dentro del recinto, esto con el fin de doblar eficazmente las ondas estacionarias, el cofre así ensamblado es avalador de una rigidez absoluta, así que casi no hay pérdida de energía; había que pensarlo.
El montaje en trípode sobre puntas en acero inoxidable es también una marca evidente de sensatez de que los diseñadores de ADN hicieron prueba en su voluntad de obtener el máximo de resultado.

Para una primera, es un acto magistral, bravo!

A.D.N Acoustics

Abraham De la Rosa
e-mail : info@adnspeakers.com
Web site : www.adnacoustics.com

Wisdom Audio

At Wisdom, we enter another level.
The main aim for the engineers at Wisdom Audio is to make the audio equipment disappear. Naturally, the speakers find themselves embedded in the wall for a perfect integration.

Vue de la pièce audio/video réalisée spécialement pour le show

We were able to judge the final product as the setup at the show was a simulation of how the speakers would be set in real life.
The drivers’ quality and the assembly of a variety of material appear to come together to provide a high sound quality.

Note the systematic presence of the “planar” type speaker for all the medium/high tones – a first.

The subwoofer has an elegant shape, with fine and profound lines. This allows it to be less visible if placed along a wall.

I discovered here a manufacturer that is resourceful and redefines cutting-edge technologies.

Here is the system that was present by Wisdom Audio:

The loudspeakers:
L100i (L/R)
C38i (center)
S90i (subwoofer)
L75 (surround; freestanding)

Le bloc fait des amplificateurs et filtre actif

The electronic ones:
SC-1 system controller
SA-1/2/3 amplifiers (pour alimenter les subwoofers et tous les autres haut-parleurs)

Vue de la partie arrière du set up

Total system price of all speakers and our matching electronics above was 76,500 USD.

If my budget allowed it, this is the kind of system I would gravitate towards. I love the idea; the application of the planar-type speakers associated with those mounted in line array mode, as well as the electronic integration, makes me think of a diffraction grating. It’s a great idea for both heat dissipation and the looks.

Mark, would it be possible to have a few words from your experience at the CES show this year?

We were pleased with the sound we achieved in the hotel suite and also the reaction of attendees, many of whom have never heard such performance from an in-wall system.

Kind regards,

Mark Glazier
President, Wisdom Audio
1572 College Parkway, Ste. 164
Carson City, NV 89706
Tel.: 775.887.8850
Fax: 775.887.8820
Cell: 203.915.8214
mark@wisdomaudio.com
Web site : www.wisdomaudio.com

Kwang Sung Electronics

Kwan Sung is a manufacturer of ultra flat cables, trademarked as WireTape.
They don’t limit their activity to cables as they also demonstrate an expertise in computer and audio wireless technologies.

Le câble WireTape qui a reçu le prix de l'innovation en 2010

The WireTape, recognized in the “innovation” category by the organizers of the show, is extremely flat, very sturdy and flexible at the same time, and is constructed of a combination of aluminum and self-adhesive. It can be used for practically all connections and is easily hidden as it can slide anywhere.

Vue en détail des différentes applications possibles

Nordost has a similar product, however, it is not self adhesive and has a steeper price, making it less accessible to the general public.

Kwang Sung Electronics

Unit 201 World Meridian Venture Center #1, 60-24 Gasan-Dong, Geumchun-Gu, Seoul, Korea
Seoul 153-801
Republic of Korea (South Korea)
Web Site : www.ksparts.com

Psyko Audio Labs Inc.

Coming to us from Calgary, this manufacturer has been distinguishing itself for the last couple of years by its particular headphone design.

casque d'écoute idéal pour les jeux et le cinéma maison

Casque d'écoute 5.1 de chez Psyko

Psyko was the recipient of the CES 2009 Innovation Award for this model. It has a wide range of applications, from video games, to listening to music, movie soundtracks in 5.1 DTS, online chat, etc…

Extremely comfortable, this headphone, made of little headphones, has many appealing attributes. Judge for yourself: lightness, comfort, complete sound immersion, independent volume and bass controls, absolutely adjustable to your head, and many more… it doesn’t brew coffee, but it almost could! ☺

Knowing that there are many of you that cannot afford a piece specifically dedicated to either music or movie watching with real-life-quality sound, Psyko offers you an elegant alternative. The sound quality is comparable to any high-end systems while being gentle on your wallet.

The icing on the cake – the whole system costs less than $300!

Trying the Psyko 5.1 headset means adopting it. I am not a big fan of videogames, but this experience has changed watching a movie in 5.1 DTS for ever.

Psyko Audio Labs Inc.

3553 31st St NW
Suite 271
Calgary, Alberta T2L 2K7
Canada
Web site : http://www.psykoaudio.com

pARTicular

Meuble audio video haut de gamme pARTIcular made in USA

Spectacular, clever, luscious, elegant, the list is not exhaustive; these pieces of furniture are truly remarkable.

mobilier design contemporain made in USA by pARTIcular

Modern Design Furniture, made in the USA by pARTIcular.
No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you, the name of this company is really spelled that way and it is not the only thing unique about this manufacturer of audio and video racks and furniture, far from it; it is rather where it all begins and this guy got it right, articulating his designs around a rare technical expertise.

Detailed view of the coupling / decoupling system of the shelves

Vue en détail du système de couplage/découplage des tablettes

The level of finish is exemplary and the detailed attention to the coupling and decoupling of the shelves is well thought through, logical, obvious.

Volkmar Druebbish, manager and designer, makes it a point of personal pride to conceive state of the art shelves and furniture as he believes that if one is going to put a piece of high quality equipment on a shelf, it should offer the absolute best level of performance possible. For this reason pARTIcular gets the prize for Innovation and Design.

Chatting with Volkmar he indicated that he discarded materials like glass, MDF and granite a long time ago after coming to the conclusion that their performance level was unsuitable for his purpose. He rather uses acrylic, wood and aluminum which resonances are far more easily controlled. He uses steel primarily to build the frames and carrying structures

Being an audio furniture manufacturer myself I was very interested and impressed by the workmanship from this designer. His logic, although different from mine, resonates true with me and we converge on the question of actual listening results.

Take a moment to go and visit pARTIcular’s website and learn more about them; many pictures and explanations will help you better understand the philosophy of the brand in a market that does not always fully care or understand. Luckily for them, we talk about it regularly and audio shows provide an opportunity for more visibility to make audio furniture a reality, just knowing how much of an impact an audio support can have, either coloring the sound or limiting dynamics. Only folks who have experimented broadly know how impactful the support will be, so give it a try for yourself and find out.

Spectacular, clever, luscious, elegant, the list is not exhaustive; these pieces of furniture are truly remarkable.

Modern Design Furniture, made in the USA by pARTIcular.

No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you, the name of this company is really spelled that way and it is not the only thing unique about this manufacturer of audio and video racks and furniture, far from it; it is rather where it all begins and this guy got it right, articulating his designs around a rare technical expertise.

Detailed view of the coupling / decoupling system of the shelves

The level of finish is exemplary and the detailed attention to the coupling and decoupling of the shelves is well thought through, logical, obvious.

Volkmar Druebbish, manager and designer, makes it a point of personal pride to conceive state of the art shelves and furniture as he believes that if one is going to put a piece of high quality equipment on a shelf, it should offer the absolute best level of performance possible. For this reason pARTIcular gets the prize for Innovation and Design.

Prix d'innovation au CES 2010

Chatting with Volkmar he indicated that he discarded materials like glass, MDF and granite a long time ago after coming to the conclusion that their performance level was unsuitable for his purpose. he rather uses acrylic, wood and aluminum which resonances are far more easily controlled. He uses steel primarily to build the frames and carrying structures.

Being an audio furniture manufacturer myself I was very interested and impressed by the workmanship from this designer. His logic, although different from mine, resonates true with me and we converge on the question of actual listening results.

Take a moment to go and visit pARTIcular’s website and learn more about them; many pictures and explanations will help you better understand the philosophy of the brand in a market that does not always fully care or understand. Luckily for them, we talk about it regularly and audio shows provide an opportunity for more visibility to make audio furniture a reality, just knowing how much of an impact an audio support can have, either coloring the sound or limiting dynamics. Only folks who have experimented broadly know how impactful the support will be so give it a try for yourself and find out.

Volkmar, would it be possible to have a few words from your experience at the CES show this year?

Hi Marc,
The show has been good to us with a few new accounts and overall wonderful response for our new isolation platform Triangle with luxury edition finish on a air-craft-grade aluminum, as well as our new entry-level loud-speakerstand Column.

We appreciate at your professional presentation and wish you all the best for 2010, especially health and joy.

Sincerely,

Volkmar Druebbisch

www.particular.com
druebbisch@yahoo.com
209-293-1188 office

pARTicular

Manager : Volkmar Druebbisch
888 Starry Night Lane
Rail Road Flat, CA 95248
United States
Web site : www.particular.com

Scaena Loudspeakers

We had met Alan and Scaena loudspeakers in New York in 2007 – and he remembered. It warmed my heart.

Set up de Scaena Loudspeakers, CES 2010

Alan, would it be possible to have a few words from your experience at the CES show this year?

I Marc,

Our system was our Model 3.2 system which is our entry level system priced at $54,000.00 US.

The system includes two (2) towers with 12 midrange drivers per side operating from 80 hz – 6000hz and has 9 ribbon tweeters per side, carrying 6000- 26000hz.

Scaena speakers close up

The supplied woofers are two (2) 18 inch drivers per side operating from 16hz to anywhere from 80 -110 hz depending on set up and the challenges presented by each room.
The room we have at the Venetian is particularly difficult because of the split level and the room dividing railing.

The lower portion of the room is too small to accomodate both the towers and woofers without placing the listening seats too close ( 3-4 feet away) to the towers.
The top portion is likewise too small to accomodate both the towers and woofers without placing the listening seats too close ( 3-4 feet away) to the towers.

Amplificateurs Mc Intosh et Scaena speaker

We compromise by putting the woofers at the back of the lower tier of the room and the towers at the back of the upper portion of the top tier – resulting in a problematic 20 foot spacing
between woofers and towers and a resultant lag that we are able to blend into the towers and adjust via our supplied DSP crossover device.

We are able to adjust gain, slope, timing, phase and frequency response of the woofers via our supplied DSP system that only impacts the signal running from our DSP crossover to the supplied woofer amplifier that produces 1400 wpc at 4 ohms.

This allowed us to provide and demonstrate acceptable sound but not to really demonstrate the full capabilities of the system.

We also used the McIntosh 2301 monobloc amplifiers on the towers at 300 w/channel.

Source was the dCS Scarlatti system.

Cabling was Nordost Odin.

The rack was provided by Stillpoints.

Best Regards,

Alan Eichenbaum

My opinion

This is a dream system, composed of all the best technologies of the current market. I agree on the set up of the room: every show room has its own difficulties and CES is no exception.

However, the size of the room allows for a pleasant experience on two levels; and even smaller than desired, these spaces provide for an enjoyable experience.

I found the demo sounds of Scaena relatively good, with a noticeable sweet spot, a pretty narrow stereo image, but especially, I noticed a lack of vocal definition – quite unusual for this type of loudspeaker. As pointed out by Alan, they tried to compromise sound due to the size of the room; therefore, it should play ten times better in normal circumstances.

This being said, Mc will always be Mc, having a certain “romantical” side. It would not have been my top choice for the demonstration, especially associated with a “full” DCS in the back. It is like accelerating and breaking at the same – at least, that is my point of view.

Scaena Loudspeakers

Manager : Alan Eichenbaum
10059 NW 1st Ct
Plantation, FL 33324
United States
Contact manager : alan@audiotweakers.com
Web site : www.scaena.com

CES 2010 part II is available : http://magazine-hifi.info/ces-2010-part-2/

Information

Las Vegas CES 2010

CES organisation : http://www.cesweb.org

This article as been written by Marc Philip independent reviewer to www.magazine-hifi.info and www.magazine-audio.com, all rights reserved, copyright 2010, texts and photos are the property of the author, under liscence commons:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/byncnd/2.5/ca/.
Have nice day and enjoy your listening.