Audio Doctor goes to Axpona observations so far



 
For the first time went to Axpona, one heck of a show more audio then we have ever seen, the old New York audio shows were like this.

Anyway walked most of the show and most of the systems heard were just bad, common problems no room tuning, rooms that were too big for the gear or too small.  Even some of the really expensive stuff was dissapointing.

There were a few room that were good.

So far winners for us that were very good not in any particular order:

1: Big Horns from Germany forgot the name really famous one,
2: Muiraudio $15k electrostatic hybrid 
3: Alta Audio cheapie $5k speakers sounded great
4: Vimburg
5: Paradigm Persona 3F

(not a great setup,  but the sound comming out of them for a $10k speaker was very impressive. excellent, midrange soundstage was impressive  image floated nicely, even though the speakers were way too close together and the bass response was excellent.  Would have been way better with a few substitions.

6: T+A $75k floorstanders were impressive for such a small size reference speaker, don't know if they are worth that kind of money, the electrostatic tweeter coupled to a line array with buillt in subs was very musical in a way too small room. Would have liked them to be taller

Decent but not up to the hype the new PS audio speakers bass was very good for a $12-15k set of speakers filled up a big room ugly, and not the ultimate wow that PS was billing them as.

The Scaena line array  when we had them setup in our show and at some of the older New York Audio Shows were mind blowing this setup didn't gel which was sad.

Today to hear the Gryphon room, Golden Ear and a few others.

Scott Markwall gave a great demo of the Furutech NCF products which are really cool.

Innous gave a great demo of the Statement vs the Zenith, and wow what a difference in soundstaging and clarity.  

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ Paradigm, T+A, Persona dealers.

128x128audiotroy
I got to hear Sasha DAW’s mates to an ARC pre and tubed monos (160’s?). Not anywhere as impressed as it thought I’d be considering the cost.

Dying to hear the Buchardts
Enjoyed the KEF Muon's I heard yesterday as well.  The ultra low bass was startling in its power and control. Biggest disappointment was the Wilson Audio- Dan D’Agostino room. This massive set up and both times I went to visit they were playing solo piano music. Yes- was nice, but could not appreciate the full capability...

Nice to see my local dealer in Milwaukee getting a shout out- Ultra Fidelis.  They were getting great sound in a small difficult room with the Vandersteen Quattro CT's.
The Salks were the 9's model at $10k I believe. They have one at $5k
with the same mid and uppers just less bass. Value there I think. Loved the Salk sound too.

Heard the Sasha/D'Agostinos and enjoyed that room. Costs aside.

Agreed the PS was BS. They should make a deal with their neighbor Roger Sanders if they wish to make speakers. He nails it.

Loved the Irish guy at Innous. Product is a winner too!

Vandys won the Best Photo Opportunity with the huge Crimson speakers and splashy Blue backdrop. That did make the sound better sadly.

With you AD on the Vimbergs. Lovely. Damn I missed the Electrostatics
from Muir. Not listed in the book!!!

The AN room had a live cellist and that was a classy touch I loved!

Paradigms were good too. Probably because they employed an Anthem
room conditioner. Did not start with it but at least these folks knew they
needed one. (As did ALL the smaller rooms)

A fun show all in all. Even if I had hoped to be home in Phoenix by now.
Thanks weather!

Thanks for brutally honest opinion. It shows there are few good reviewer who cannot be influenced.
If many agree here PS speaker is BS How can they approve & release it? huge dent in brand.