news

Berning class A mono
Feb 2011, David Berning launch a limited edition of Class A Mono Reference amplifiers. Based on the wonderful ZH230 released last year, these monoblocks have the output tubes biased for class A operation. In our system, there is an unnerving level of transparency, purity & agility leading to a very intimate and beautiful musical performance.
To compensate for the higher heat generated by class A bias, these amps are conservetively configured at a lower power rating - 12W into 8 ohms, 19W into 4 ohms. However, they will still drive many real world speakers as the impedance matching and efficiency of Berning's ZOTL technology means that not all watts are equal. Price for a pair of these little gems is £13,500
Stillpoints Ultras
Jan 2011, Stillpoints launch 2 special versions of their legendary cone. Available either in aluminium (black) or stainless steel (silver), the Ultra incorporates all the features of a Stillpoints cone, threaded riser & mini inverse riser in a single device. Each Ultra contains additional layers of the isolation technology, and this, together with the increased solidity and use of aluminium or steel in the body dramatically increases the performance.
Making their debut at CES 2011, several manufacturers who heard these devices, signed up at the show to incorporate Ultras in their own products. We brought in the remaining available stock, and have sold out before even announcing them. More are on their way!
The aluminium Ultra is comparable in performance to the high-performance component stand. The stainless steel Ultras offer a significant level of performance beyond that! Prices are £135 each (aluminium) and £185 each (stainless steel).
dCS selects Berning amplifiers
Dec 2010, dCS's recent move to larger premises in Cambridge gave them the opportunity to set up reference systems in a purpose built demonstration/evaluation room. The David Berning Pre-One and ZH230 amplifiers were selected to drive at least one of their systems.
It should come as no surprise to learn of our respect for dCS equipment and the company itself. We are therefore delighted with this endorsement for a product that we too, believe is rather special.
To ensure the dCS system performed optimally, ourselves and Larry from the AudioWorks were invited to spend a few days installing and tuning the equipment. Small group events and individual tours will be arranged over the coming months, where you are sure to be impressed by the company, the new site and music room.
dCS Scarlatti upgrade
Sep 2010, the reference CD/SACD playback system has just been enhanced. This consists of an upgrade to the dCS Scarlatti DAC, improving the focus, timing and dynamic range of both CD & SACD.
New units shipped from September will boast the upgrade. Existing customers of this system can receive and perform the upgrade at no charge, as it is software loadable from a disc. Well worth it!
dCS customers with older ranges could be tempted to upgrade to a Scarlatti or Paganini system, as dCS periodically help this step through great trade in offers. Phone/email for more details.
Britten Sinfonia event
Mar 2010, themed 'Reveries', this was a night to remember hosted at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge University. A live performance from the award-winning Britten Sinfonia followed by their recorded performances on an award-winning (gulp) £200,000 system.
The bold event was sponsored by dCS and we, together with AudioWorks were responsible for the no-holds barred system. Many thanks to Britten Sinfonia who performed exquisitely, and to Focal who managed to carry in the 600lb monster Grande Utopias.
Our system consisted of dCS Scarlatti CD/SACD source, David Berning 'ZOTL' pre/power amplifiers, Focal Grand Utopia speakers, Stillpoints component stand racks, MIT digital, analogue interconnects & speaker cables and MusicWorks power loom & distribution block.
MusicWorks power cables
Mar 2010, Two new MusicWorks mains leads are now available, and on demonstration. The new leads feature the Furutech 13A UK mains plug, and the top lead also includes the top of the range Furutech IEC plug. All existing MusicWorks mains lead owners are entitled to a trade in depending on product and age of trade in.
These cables represent a very significant increase in performance, particularly musical flow, timing and energy. We cannot recommend these cables high enough, particularly when used with the MusicWorks Reflex distribution block.
ReVive 'Lite' - a compound screened mains lead with Furutech 13A Rhodium plated mains plug - 350.
ReVive - a compound screened mains cable with all metal parts cryogenically treated, featuring Furutech 13A Rhodium plated 13A plug, and Furutech FI-50R IEC plug - 750.