I went to the 2018 NY show, and am a veteran of many RMAF shows. I find that in almost every instance, the simpler the system, the better it sounds. I’m not talking price, just simplicity. A show setting has way too many variables to try and make a 10 piece ensemble of electronics and speakers mesh.
I did not care for the sound of the Golden Ear Triton room; it was a simple setup as I like, but either the Peachtree was not up to the task, or something else was amiss. I expected better, not more, bass, from a system with a tuneable low end. Not bad sound, but the rave reviews seem a little much.
After visiting the Robyatt room, I ask: Can the Quad speaker be duplicated? They really lean toward my ideal of smooth tonality and no in your face stridency.
Anyone with more than a passing interest in this hobby should really get to a show or two. You’d be surprised at how many of the critic’s darlings, be they speakers, amps, etc., don’t really seem as special as the flowery prose would suggest.
Having said that, nowhere else but at a show or local audiophile club, will you find so many like-minded people that share your passion. It’s fun.
