CrAzY TuEsDaY

Theme: Pareidolia

This is part of my Sony surround sound system. Every time I watch TV I think this looks like a Monkey. Tried with and without Flash and liked how the flash hi-lighted certain areas. 🐵🐵

Cropped to omit rest of system.

Marina Bay Light & Water show

A spectacular multimedia show consisting of fountain, surround sound, video projection, LED lighting, spot lights and other visual effects.

Showtimes: Fridays and Saturdays: 8pm, 9.30pm and 11pm. Sundays: 8pm and 9.30pm

This is a free event.

pp: Enhanced with "Topazlab adjust".

©williamcho2012

Image Theft is a CRIME. Please REPORT IT like I do.

what I do for a living

The display on the front of my Yamaha YHT-196 surround sound system

Back in the 1980s, Dual’s CS 505 was the budget turntable of choice. Initially coming in at £75 (around $98/AU$113), it dominated the affordable end of the market and gave thousands of music fans their first taste of high-quality record replay.

As the years passed and CD dominated, the demand for record players suffered. Dual, like most record player manufacturers, struggled, fading from view in the UK at least. The brand has gone through numerous business changes over the decades but now seems to be back and focused with a new range of turntables that aim to recapture some of that old magic.

The belt-drive CS 418 is currently the company’s starter deck. It’s an understated design that still manages to look smart. Ortofon’s well-regarded 2M Red moving magnet cartridge is included as part of the package and is a good, sensible choice with an even balance and secure tracking ability.

Take the CS 418 out of its packaging and it impresses. It’s solidly made and finished with care. Unlike the CS 505, this one doesn’t have a sprung sub-chassis, instead, like many rivals, depending on soft elastomers on its feet to isolate the record from unwanted vibrations caused by the speakers or the support. That smart plinth is a solid piece of MDF covered in a black vinyl wrap and supports the steel shaft/brass bushing main bearing and DC motor.

DUAL CS 418 TECH SPECS

Turntable: Dual CS 418

Type Belt drive

Speed 33 ⅓, 45 and 78 RPM

Speed change Electric

Cartridge Ortofon 2M Red

Phono stage Yes

The platter is a relatively chunky aluminium die-cast affair that would ring quite strongly if it weren’t for the 2.5mm-thick rubber mat that rests on it. There are cutouts in the platter to allow the flat drive belt to be positioned around the motor pulley.

On the right of the plinth is a dial to switch it on and select the rotational speed. Unusually, 78RPM is on the menu alongside the expected 33⅓ and 45 options. The position of the dial means that it’s not too hard to knock the cartridge accidentally during use, so care has to be taken.

Thoughtfully, considering this deck is aimed at those just getting into playing records, Dual has also included a built-in phono stage. There are many amplifiers on the market that don’t include one, so it’s a useful addition. It is possible to bypass the phono circuit with a flick of a switch, in case it’s not needed or you want to upgrade. Spoiler alert: owners of this deck probably should at some point.

The arm is a straightforward design with a detachable headshell. It feels nicely made, moves smoothly, and pleasingly lacks the unwanted bearing play that plagues many of the more affordable decks that pass through our test rooms. Our only slight complaint is that the arm’s lift/lower lever doesn’t share the precise feel demonstrated by the rest of the arm design, feeling a little sloppy in use.

We plug the CS 418 into a system made up of a Cambridge CXA61 amplifier and Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers, as well as our usual high-end set-up of Burmester 088/911 Mk III pre/power and ATC SCM50 speakers. As with all turntables, it makes sense to place the Dual well away from speakers and on a rigid, level and ideally low resonance support. Without such care, you won’t really hear just how capable this turntable is.

Once up and running, which takes a matter of minutes, the CS 418 delivers a performance that puts it among the front runners at this price. It’s a clear, expressive and balanced-sounding package, and is able to dig up plenty of detail and organise it in a musically cohesive way.

As we listen to Carmina Burana, it’s hard to not be impressed by the deck's composure and ability to capture the scale and highly charged energy of the piece. The music’s savage dynamics are rendered with composure and a pleasing amount of impact while the stereo image retains a good sense of precision and focus.

The tonality of a record-playing package is always going to be dominated by the choice of cartridge, and so the Ortofon 2M Red makes its mark with a decently even-handed balance and a good dose of refinement for the money. This moving magnet cartridge is a fine all-rounder that is a cut above the norm at this level when it comes to clarity and control. It tracks securely at the recommended 1.8g.

We switch to Catch A Fire by Bob Marley and the Wailers and the CS 418 continues to impress with a surefooted way with rhythms and a fine sense of musical drive. It’s an entertaining listen – one that communicates the feel and emotion of the music well. We particularly like the way this Dual package handles the midrange, with Marley’s vocals coming through with passion and nuance intact.

While the inclusion of a phono stage is useful, we would view the one fitted here as a fair starting point rather than the endgame in a more ambitious set-up. It’s a decent performer that’s likely to be just fine with budget amplification, but move up to the likes of Cambridge’s CXA61 amplifier and you’ll find it quickly becomes a limiting factor.

Turntable: Dual CS 418

Verdict

The affordable turntable market has been dominated by the likes of Rega and Pro-Ject for years. If the rest of Dual’s range can build on the solid foundations laid by the CS 418, maybe the brand can reclaim the crown it held so securely all those years ago. Make no mistake, this is a good start.

SCORES

Sound 5

Build 5

Features 5

McIntosh MA12000

£18,495.00

Their most powerful integrated amplifier ever, the feature rich McIntosh MA12000 offers 350 Watts per channel of clean, high performance power that produces a breathtaking home audio experience.

McIntosh has taken the wraps off its "most powerful integrated amplifier ever." The MA12000 pumps out 350 watts per channel, a whole 50 watts more than the US firm's super-sized MA9000 amp.

Oomph aside, the MA12000 offers up a tempting blend of warm analogue sound and cutting-edge tech. To that end, McIntosh has teamed a traditional preamp

– complete with four green-glowing 12AX7A vacuum tubes – with a punchy solid-state power amplifier and a Quad Balanced 32-bit DAC.

The unit boasts digital smarts, too. There's support for hi-res 24-bit/192kHz playback and seven digital audio inputs, including two optical inputs, USB and an HDMI (ARC) connection.

McIntosh has form when it comes to creating monster amps (see also: the 450W MC462) and knows a thing or two about controlling large amounts of firepower. Hence this latest effort features the company's Autoformer technology, which aims to ensure that the amplifier’s 350W are fully delivered to any speaker.

So, where do you start with raw power at your disposal? Have a gander round the back and you'll find enough connections to connect to virtually any traditional music system. There's 10 analogue inputs, including six gold-plated unbalanced inputs, two balanced inputs, plus one moving coil and one moving magnet input (meaning your vinyl collection should sound better than ever).

The whole shebang comes wrapped in McIntosh's retro-chic style, complete with black glass panels and dual "McIntosh Blue" watt meters that indicate power output in real time, so you can of see precisely how many of those 350 watts your speakers are pumping out.

Thankfully – for you and your neighbours – the MA12000 also comes with McIntosh's High Drive headphone amplifier, which can drive a wide range of audiophile headphones.

As you've probably guessed, all this headline-grabbing power doesn't come cheap. The MA12000 will be available through authorised McIntosh dealers from October, at a price of £16,500 ($14,000).

This Audio Den custom theater looks and feels as good as it performs. Audio Den installed a Marantz VP-11S1 projector with the anamorphic lens option. B&W 803D front speakers, a B&W HTM2D center channel, four B&W CWM DS8 in-wall dipole speakers and two Velodyne SC-15 subwoofers provide amazing 7.1 surround sound. Audio Den selected Anthem statement electronics to power the speakers (the front three speakers are bi-amplified with 225W per channel into 8 Ohms).

The walls are a mix of acoustic panels with damask stretched fabric, custom wood work and fiber-woven wall paper over quiet rock.

A Control4 automation system operates the electronics, as well as the theater sconces, automated curtain, platform lighting and the fiber optic star field ceiling.

Wall mounted the Z-5500 speakers and connected them to the Sky and new Xbox 360 Elite.

Still awaiting the arrive of my 5M optical cable to connect the PS3.

PS3 is going optical as it has the best functionality with its Blu-Ray player and I will be using it to watch DVD's mostly.

Audiolab has won more major awards in UK hi-fi magazines than any other brand of high-performance audio electronics.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Formed in the early 1980s by Philip Swift and Derek Scotland, audiolab earned worldwide acclaim with the 8000A – an integrated stereo amplifier that became a classic ‘step-up’ from the budget models of the time.

During the ensuing years, the 8000A established itself as one of the most successful British amps ever produced, and was joined by a range of electronics including CD players, pre/power amps and an FM tuner. The brand switched hands in 1997, changing its name to TAG McLaren Audio; and it so was known until 2004 when audiolab became part of the International Audio Group and returned to its original name.

“If ever a product defined its market, the 8000A is the one. Reliability, ease of use, engineering excellence and a well-behaved sound are the pillars supporting the justified reputation of the 8000A. Over the years, audiolab’s no-nonsense, evolutionary approach to design has widely been recognised.”

– Audiohile with Hi-Fi Answers.

8000A & P Still used to this day. Have upgraded the power supply,

REIMAGINE THE 70s

Remember those classic loudspeakers from the 1970s? That era of distinctive, iconic cabinets and ground-breaking technologies that moved audiophiles closer than ever to the music? So do we.

RETRO MEETS MODERN

From the drawing board of audio industry veteran of 40+ years, Dr Paul Mills, the Fyne Audio Vintage and Vintage Classic Series loudspeakers reimagine those iconic years of loudspeaker design. Merging retro-inspired aesthetics with the latest developments in acoustic design and engineering, this elegant range of traditional loudspeakers shows that back in the day never sounded this good.

THE DESIGNER

Dr Paul has been at the forefront of loudspeaker design for decades, becoming one of the HiFi industry’s most respected figures since the 1990s. Bringing this unrivalled blend of heritage, experience and engineering knowledge to bear on a project close to his heart, Fyne Audio’s premium Vintage and more affordable Vintage Classic series are no-compromise designs born of Dr Paul’s passion for creating the most engaging music experience at home, sonically and visually.

dr paul mills

HANDCRAFTED IN THE UK

Hand crafted here in Scotland and exquisitely finished in timeless real wood veneers, each model incorporates a raft of Fyne’s latest technologies including IsoFlare point source drivers with FyneFlute roll surround and BassTrax 360 degree bass porting. From the premium curved cabinets and bespoke Presence control dial of the Vintage Series to the striking black baffle of Scottish patterned grill cloth of the more accessible Vintage Classic Series, every model seamlessly blends traditional British craftsmanship with contemporary audio performance

Bristol Hi Fi Show 2023.

Award Winning PSB Home Theater: Acoustic Wall Treatments and 7.2 Hidden Surround Sound Speaker System.

103" Acoustically Transparent Screen with Center Speaker located behind 1080p Projector and Blu-Ray Player. www.HomeTheaterAndBeyond.com

This Audio Den custom theater looks and feels as good as it performs. Audio Den installed a Marantz VP-11S1 projector with the anamorphic lens option. B&W 803D front speakers, a B&W HTM2D center channel, four B&W CWM DS8 in-wall dipole speakers and two Velodyne SC-15 subwoofers provide amazing 7.1 surround sound. Audio Den selected Anthem statement electronics to power the speakers (the front three speakers are bi-amplified with 225W per channel into 8 Ohms).

The walls are a mix of acoustic panels with damask stretched fabric, custom wood work and fiber-woven wall paper over quiet rock.

A Control4 automation system operates the electronics, as well as the theater sconces, automated curtain, platform lighting and the fiber optic star field ceiling.

the main telly and surround sound (oh, and my dell 9300 lappy)

£8,995.

McIntosh MA352

The MA352 Integrated Amplifier is a hybrid design that combines the finest of vacuum tube and solid state audio design principles. The result is an eye-catching amplifier that enjoys the best of these two opposing audio philosophies all while reproducing music at the highest quality level.

An all-analog design, the MA352 has a vacuum tube preamplifier section that is powered by a pair of 12AX7A and a pair of 12AT7 vacuum tubes; its output stage is a direct coupled solid state amplifier that outputs 200 Watts per channel into 8 Ohm speakers or 320 Watts per channel into 4 Ohm speakers – enough power to properly drive virtually any set of loudspeakers. Dual scale blue Watt meters give an accurate readout of power output for both speaker impedances.

The MA352 has 2 balanced and 3 unbalanced inputs plus 1 Moving Magnet phono input with adjustable loading for connecting a turntable. It has gold-plated speaker binding posts to help prevent corrosion and ensure a quality signal is sent over your speaker cables to your speakers. A stereo preamplifier output is available for connecting a higher-powered amplifier; it can also be used to connect 1 or 2 powered subwoofers for added low frequency performance.

The MA352 is packed with numerous McIntosh technologies including:

The patented Power Guard® technology that monitors the output signal for over driving and makes real time micro adjustments to the input signal to prevent harsh sounding clipping that could potentially damage your speakers

Fuse-less short-circuit protection circuit Sentry Monitor™ that will disengage the output stage before current exceeds safe operating levels and then resets automatically when operating conditions return to normal

McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsinks™ which are connected to advanced high current output transistors that minimize thermal equilibrium lag (or warm-up) time

High Drive headphone amplifier with Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD®)

A 5-band analog tone control allows for manual adjustment of your favorite recordings (each band adjustable by ± 12dB)

Home Theater Pass Through lets it be seamlessly integrated into a home theater system

Power Control to send power on/off signals to connected McIntosh components for easy system power up and shutdown

Data Ports to send remote control commands to connected source components

The unit sits on a stainless steel chassis polished to a mirror finish; vintage McIntosh-styled die cast aluminum name badges are affixed to each side. Blue output meters, control knobs, an illuminated logo, and a black glass front panel with direct LED backlighting complete the unit. It can be paired with an assortment of CD players, turntables, tuners, media streamers and speakers to complete your home audio system.

The 2023 Bristol Hi-Fi Show is in full swing. Held at the Delta Hotels Marriott, Bristol City Centre Hotel from 24-26 February and now in its 34th year, it's a welcome return after a Covid-induced absence of three years.

For UK-based lovers of quality audio and the equipment that produces it, a visit to the Bristol Show is a must. It is Britain’s biggest and longest-running exhibition event of its kind and it's certainly been good to be back.

More than 160 exhibitors are showing their wares this year, and Team What Hi-Fi? are here too, answering queries, bringing you highlights from the show floor, and giving live demonstrations of our bespoke custom-built, multi-speaker AV surround sound system incorporating the latest TV tech.

This Audio Den custom theater looks and feels as good as it performs. Audio Den installed a Marantz VP-11S1 projector with the anamorphic lens option. B&W 803D front speakers, a B&W HTM2D center channel, four B&W CWM DS8 in-wall dipole speakers and two Velodyne SC-15 subwoofers provide amazing 7.1 surround sound. Audio Den selected Anthem statement electronics to power the speakers (the front three speakers are bi-amplified with 225W per channel into 8 Ohms).

The walls are a mix of acoustic panels with damask stretched fabric, custom wood work and fiber-woven wall paper over quiet rock.

A Control4 automation system operates the electronics, as well as the theater sconces, automated curtain, platform lighting and the fiber optic star field ceiling.

Overgrown collection of Carver Stereo equipment. Most of this stuff was made in the mid to late 80's or early 90's. I believe the 80's stuff fits into "Vintage" category now?

The majority of my CARVER Corporation stereo equipment. Not shown are a C-4000t Sonic Holography Pre-Amplifier, two Silver Nine t Monoblock Power Amplifiers, the remote controls for the majority of these components and a programmable remote control the PRH-1.

HR-895 Audio/Video Stereo Surround Sound Receiver (2)

CT-3 Audio Pre-Amplifier

CT-29v Audio/Video Stereo Surround Sound Pre-Amplifier

TLM-3600 10 Disc CD Changer

TDR-2400 Dual Cassette deck

TL-3300 CD Player (2)

M1.0t Magnetic Field Power Amplifier (2)

DTL-200 MKII CD Player

The M1.0t amplifiers were the product of a stereo challenge won by Bob Carver. He pitted his $700 MSRP amplifier against any amplifier chosen by audiophile magazines in a blind listening comparision. After just 3 days of tweaking the sound, these amplifiers were undistinguishable from the legendary Conrad Johnson tube amplifiers costing $10,000.

Which means that four of them jumped off the stage and started playing all through the crowd. It's really awesome when they do that!

Please note the pretty raindrops that I caught in the picture.

Here's another surround sound picture (that my sister took) from another show with different costumes. It's definitely worth looking at:

www.flickr.com/photos/28215315@N06/2822763105/

No group invites please

DENON AVC-A1D High-End AV Amplifier

A Stunning Sound Experience.

The MC451 Dual Mono Amplifier joins the MC901 in offering the ultimate solution to bi-amping a loudspeaker. Like the MC901, the MC451 uses our Hybrid Drive™ technology that combines a separate vacuum tube and solid state amplifier onto one single chassis to produce the best possible sound performance from a bi-ampable speaker. Unlike the larger MC901, the MC451 has a more conventional McIntosh form factor and size, allowing it to fit into home audio systems, racks, and furniture more easily. Adding a pair of MC451s to your stereo system will allow your prized speakers to perform like never before.

A pair of MC451 Dual Mono Amplifiers powering a home audio system with bi-ampable XRT1.1K speakers.

The MC451 is comprised of a 150 Watt vacuum tube amplifier and a 300 Watt solid state amplifier, which is more than enough power to drive virtually all speakers.

The vacuum tube section drives the speaker's midranges and tweeters, while the solid state section drives the woofers. The 150 Watt vacuum tube amplifier is powered by four KT88 output tubes which are located under a removable wire cage, plus two 12AT7 and one 12AX7A signal tubes; it uses our patented Unity Coupled Circuit output transformer to deliver its full 150 Watts into almost any speaker regardless if it has 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance.

Similarly, the 300 Watt solid state amplifier delivers its full 300 Watts into a 2, 4 or 8 Ohm impedance speaker via our Autoformer™ technology.

The two amplifiers in the MC451 are designed to work together in a synergistic relationship and are specifically engineered to assure that each only amplifies its intended frequencies. The large but quiet toroidal transformer generates enough power so that neither amplifier robs power or performance from the other. All of this results in easy bi-amping with unparalleled performance and sound reproduction from your speakers.

Bi-amping your speakers with the MC451 is easy. No longer do you need fiddle with two separate amplifiers, an external crossover, and a lot of trial and error to properly configure the two separate amplifiers with often times only so-so results. The MC451 solves these hassles thanks to its internal, adjustable crossover. The MC451’s crossover tailors the output frequency range of each amplifier section to the attached loudspeaker. Simply set the CROSSOVER POINT knob on the back of the MC451 to the loudspeaker’s crossover point, then frequencies below the crossover point will be sent to the solid state amplifier and frequencies above it will be sent to the vacuum tube amplifier.

This adjustable crossover allows you to optimize the performance of both amplifier sections to your speaker's specifications and to your listening preferences. Gain levels for the vacuum tube amplifier can be adjusted from -6dB to +3dB. A direct feed can also be connected to each amplifier section, thus bypassing the internal crossover.

The MC451 features our DualView™ Power Output Meter. The DualView meter features two of our traditional, fast responding mechanical meters stacked above and below each other in a single meter window; one meter is dedicated to the 150 Watt vacuum tube amp and the other to the 300 Watt solid state amp. Each meter operates independently of the other and displays the real time power reading of each amplifier section.

McIntosh MC451 Amplifier

In addition to everything already mentioned, the MC451 comes with a multitude of other McIntosh amplifier the technologies:

Power Guard® that monitors and adjusts the input signal in the 300 Watt solid state amplifier section in real time, then makes inconspicuous volume adjustments to prevent harsh sounding distortion and potential speaker damaging clipping.

Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor® (SGS). The 150 Watt vacuum tube amplifier section features our Power Guard SGS® technology. Power Guard SGS helps prevent premature vacuum tube failure by monitoring the screen grid current in the KT88 output vacuum tubes. If the current becomes too high, a circuit in Power Guard SGS is activated which then dynamically attenuates the input signal in real time to keep the vacuum tubes operating at safe levels.

Sentry Monitor™ observes the output current and shuts the amplifier off if it ever exceeds safe limits.

Power Control that can send power on/off signals to other connected McIntosh components for easy system power up and shutdown.

Our patented, gold-plated Solid Cinch™ speaker binding posts that easily and securely attach the speaker cables.

A McIntosh Monogrammed Heatsink™ that is connected to advanced high current output transistors to efficiently cool the solid state amplifier section.

Our Power Management System that will turn the entire unit off after a set amount of time when no input signal has been detected.

The uncompromising fit and finish of the MC451 is highlighted by familiar McIntosh design cues. The front features a signature black glass faceplate with three clear windows that allow viewing of the vacuum tubes, the DualView meter, two rotary control knobs, an illuminated logo and lettering, and built-in aluminum handles. The top is highlighted by a series of block diagrams printed on glass inserts outlining the circuitry and specifications of the unit. All of this sits atop of stainless steel chassis that's been polished to a pristine mirror finish.

The MC451 amplifier can be combined with a variety of preamplifiers, turntables, CD players, media streamers, speakers, and other specialty products to form a complete home audio system designed for bi-amping loudspeakers. Contact your local dealer to learn more.

Sorry for the dark picture, the room is so dark now it is hard to get a good picture, even with the lights on.

The 2023 Bristol Hi-Fi Show is in full swing. Held at the Delta Hotels Marriott, Bristol City Centre Hotel from 24-26 February and now in its 34th year, it's a welcome return after a Covid-induced absence of three years.

For UK-based lovers of quality audio and the equipment that produces it, a visit to the Bristol Show is a must. It is Britain’s biggest and longest-running exhibition event of its kind and it's certainly been good to be back.

More than 160 exhibitors are showing their wares this year, and Team What Hi-Fi? are here too, answering queries, bringing you highlights from the show floor, and giving live demonstrations of our bespoke custom-built, multi-speaker AV surround sound system incorporating the latest TV tech.

Audiolab has won more major awards in UK hi-fi magazines than any other brand of high-performance audio electronics.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Formed in the early 1980s by Philip Swift and Derek Scotland, audiolab earned worldwide acclaim with the 8000A – an integrated stereo amplifier that became a classic ‘step-up’ from the budget models of the time.

During the ensuing years, the 8000A established itself as one of the most successful British amps ever produced, and was joined by a range of electronics including CD players, pre/power amps and an FM tuner. The brand switched hands in 1997, changing its name to TAG McLaren Audio; and it so was known until 2004 when audiolab became part of the International Audio Group and returned to its original name.

“If ever a product defined its market, the 8000A is the one. Reliability, ease of use, engineering excellence and a well-behaved sound are the pillars supporting the justified reputation of the 8000A. Over the years, audiolab’s no-nonsense, evolutionary approach to design has widely been recognised.”

– Audiohile with Hi-Fi Answers.

8000A & P Still used to this day. Have upgraded the power supply,

Audiolab has won more major awards in UK hi-fi magazines than any other brand of high-performance audio electronics.

yesterday, the water was clear. today, it started that way but a coupla hours later was choked with ice clinkering its glassine swirl along in surroundsound. noisy!

something serious going on upriver...

made for an interesting trip back, even the smaller pieces a problem if they get in the way. fortunately, there were some open channels between great clots & the manœuverability of this beast of a raft is surprising. i imagine this stuff'd potentially punch holes in a canoe or kayak but i was able to keep smashing into a huge field of ice & nudge it outta the bay into the current after i'd gotten through the main channel.

The art of small. Recent buy to add into my collection. Note the superbig-loudspeakers

Home Theater equipment racks made by CWD and Salamander Design.

Audio is processed by the new HDMI 1.4 Edition, Theta Digital Casablanca III-HD Music And Cinema Controller, using Xtreme Dacs on all channels. (5.3channels)

Video is processed by a DVDO VP50 Video Processor All film based sources are upscaled and converted to output 1080p24f to the Pioneer Elite Plasma.

Power Amps are the Mark Levinson Dual Mono design #331, #332 & #333. All Amps are connected to the Casablanca III-HD's Xtreme DAC's Balanced Analog Outputs, using Cardas Golden Referance Balanced Interconnects, with a power output totaling 2,400 watts @ 4ohms driving 5 speakers.

Digital sources inc. the Theta Digital HDMI 1.3 Compli-blu and an Esoteric DV50s for Blu-ray/DVD/SACD/CD, a Direct TV HR-20 HD-DVR and a Toshiba HD-DVD player.

Analog sources inc. the Magnum Dynalab MD-102T Triode Tube Analog FM Tuner with remote and the Esoteric DV-50s is also used for 2 channel SACD's, since it's analog outputs are superior to those of the Compli-blu.

While the Esoteric DV-50s is capable of delivering Multi-channel SACD via it's analog outputs, I prefer to use the HDMI output of the Compli-blu for Mult-channel SACD.

AC Power is supplied through the PS Audio Power Plant Premier & Monster HTS3600 MK II, Granite Audio Model #560 AC Cables are connected to the PS Audio Soloist & Power Port AC wall recepticles.

An Aerial Acoustics CC-5 Center Channel Speaker is below a 60" Pioneer Elite Pro-150 Plasma TV.

(Not Seen In Picture)

Speakers & Associated Cables:

A pair of Aerial Acoustics Mdl.9 Speakers flank the front left & right cabinets and a second, matching pair, is in the rear of the room. Transparent MusicWave Ultra Speaker Cables are being used.

Subwoofers & Associated Cables:

A pair of Velodyne DD-12 Subwoofers are to the sides of the main AA Mdl.9's, while a Revel Sub-15 is in the rear. Transparent MusicLink Ultra Balanced Interconnects are being used to connect all 3 subwoofers.

Approx. power to all Subwoofers, over 2,500 watts.

System Total >5 kilowatts

For the best pricing on all Theta Digital and Aerial Acoustic Speaker products worldwide, call Craig Shumer of Theatermax LLC in N.J.

Theatermax is The Worlds Largest Dealer of these products (732) 616-1010 or go to www.theatermax.com/

UPDATE! Jan. 6th, 2011

I am very proud to announce that the Casablanca unit pictured above was chosen to be

"The Worlds First, HDMI 1.4 Edition, Casablanca III-HD Music And Cinema Controller".

It has now possible to have a production model CB-III upgraded to HDMI.

Although it is a standard production model in almost every way, this particular CB-III had been factory built with unique custom cosmetic work performed.

This customization was very kindly furnished by Theta to meet my personal requirements.

Theta Digital was also kind enough to similarly customize the new

Compi-blu, Blu-ray player, so that it too would visually enhance the appearance of my system and perfectly match my new CB-IIIHD!

These seemingly little things play an important part in what has helped Theta stay at the forefront of the high-end audio industry for so many years.

I cannot help but to once again thank Craig Shumer of Theatermax LLC. in NJ for making it possible for me to get "The Worlds First HDMI Edition, Casablanca III-HD Music And Cinema Controller" and at the same time, convince Theta Digital to go out of their way to produce just this one customized machine for me.

Few companies would take the extra time, at this critical point, to go out of their way to cater to a particular clients vanity. But that is what Theta Digital has graciously done for me.

It works and sounds amazing too!

Immersive soundscape installation exhibited at Talbot Rice Gallery, Edinburgh, Nov 2014 -

“Mesmerising... hypnotic and captivating... sublime” - Aesthetica Magazine

www.aestheticamagazine.com/disinformation-analysis-beauty...

www.artinscotland.tv/2016/disinformation-the-analysis-of-...

See also - www.flickr.com/disinfo/52404108274/

The 2023 Bristol Hi-Fi Show is in full swing. Held at the Delta Hotels Marriott, Bristol City Centre Hotel from 24-26 February and now in its 34th year, it's a welcome return after a Covid-induced absence of three years.

For UK-based lovers of quality audio and the equipment that produces it, a visit to the Bristol Show is a must. It is Britain’s biggest and longest-running exhibition event of its kind and it's certainly been good to be back.

More than 160 exhibitors are showing their wares this year, and Team What Hi-Fi? are here too, answering queries, bringing you highlights from the show floor, and giving live demonstrations of our bespoke custom-built, multi-speaker AV surround sound system incorporating the latest TV tech.

My new shiney Xbox 360 Elite.

Already had an Xbox 360 Premium without HDMI and decided to do this upgrade to get the bigger HDD, HDMI and the black looks.

The HDMI definately provides a much better picture than Component and VGA :o) HDMI > VGA > Component.

go and listen to: 12 channel surround artwork from Veronika Spierenburg @ Aargauer Kunsthaus (Davor Darin Danach)

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

Updated and better version of my previous "Desk" photo - once again taken using external flash :-)

Keyboard and Mouse are plugged into my PC, and I use Synergy to control the Mac.

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

Wall mounted the Z-5500 speakers and connected them to the Sky and new Xbox 360 Elite.

Still awaiting the arrive of my 5M optical cable to connect the PS3.

PS3 is going optical as it has the best functionality with its Blu-Ray player and I will be using it to watch DVD's mostly.

logitech Speaker System Z323

It may have been my dumbest move all year, but I decided to put down $100 for NFL Sunday Ticket SuperFan. It could've been $80 next week, but I just couldn't pass up watching the Saints play the Jets in HD (Go Saints!!)... plus, check out this 8-game screen!! That's my laptop in front on DirecTV SuperCast and our 42" plasma in the back... with a green candle holder all the way in the back!

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.

City leaders and representatives from the Neighborhood Cinema Group celebrated June 21 the opening of a multi-million dollar, 10-screen theater at 1050 Powder Springs St. The theatre, which includes stadium seating, 3-D and surround-sound technology, is the only cinema in the city. It is expected to create 40 to 50 regular part-time jobs and several full-time management positions.

This city of Marietta photograph is being made available for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, e-mails, products or promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the city of Marietta, its elected officials or staff. Publication of this photograph must include a credit: Photo courtesy of the city of Marietta.