SOUNDBITES
AUDIO RESEARCH REFERENCE CD9SE
Audio Research has released its Reference CD9SE CD Player/DAC which, as with all ARC’s reference products, uses valves… in this case in its analogue output stages as well as in its power supply. The output stage of the Audio Research Reference CD9SE uses four 6H30 dual-triodes, while a 6550WE and a 6H30 are used in the power supply. The digital section features quad 24-bit DACs running in mono mode, with dual master oscillators; one for 44.1/88.2/176.4 sample rates, and the other for 48/96/192kHz sample rates. Sample rate conversion is selectable for all inputs (USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, and Toslink), and also for disc playback, allowing conversion to be either at native resolution or upsampled. Users can also choose their preferred filter type: fast roll-off or slow roll-off. The disc transport is a Philips PRO2R.
The front panel has the familiar, dimmable CD display on the left side, while on the right LEDs are used to show sampling rate, input selection, filter selection and power status. ‘Sonically, the Reference CD9SE is in a new class, combining the magical musicality of valves with the remarkable transparency and liveness of solid-state,’ said Philip Sawyer, of Synergy Audio Visual, which distributes Audio Research in Australia. ‘The Reference CD9SE sounds fast, with great transient speed, improved dynamics from top to bottom, much greater resolution of inner detail, with a focus and purity that is captivating. Rhythm, pace and timing are better than ever… something you need to hear for yourself in order to appreciate.’
Audio Research specs the CD9SE with a frequency response of 3Hz to 96kHz –3dB, a signal-to-noise ratio of 110dB, and with less than 0.003% THD and less than 0.002% IMD. Channel separation is rated at 107B @ 1kHz. Available now in black or silver, the Audio Research Reference CD9SE retails for $24,995 (RRP).
For more information, contact Synergy Audio Visual on (03) 9459 7474 on www.synergyaudio.com
AUDIO RESEARCH | ONKYO
ONKYO A-9130 INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
The Onkyo A-9130 integrated amplifier, which has a Wolfson WM8718 192kHz/24-bit DAC on board, is now available in Australia. The Onkyo A-9130 is a ‘classic’ design, with a linear power supply using a large EI transformer and custom-made 10,000μF electrolytic storage/smoothing capacitors. The output stage is also a classic ‘linear’ Class A/B output stage using discrete bipolar power transistors. It’s rated with a power output of 30-watts per channel into 8 , a frequency response of 10Hz to 100kHz (–3dB) and a signal-to-noise ratio of 106dB (A-weighted).
In addition to providing six analogue inputs (five line-level and a discrete MM phono stage), the A-9130 also has coaxial and optical digital audio inputs. Digital decoding is via a Wolfson WM8718 192kHz/24-bit DAC that supports 192kHz/24-bit audio playback (PCM only). The digital audio board automatically shuts down when an analogue input signal is detected to reduce potential interference on the signal.
The A-9130 also features Onkyo’s unique ‘Phase Matching Bass Boost’, circuitry. The company says that the conventional loudness circuits used to boost bass when listening at low volume levels adversely affect the phase relationship between the low and midrange frequencies whenever they’re used. It says that its phase matching bass boost circuit boosts the bass without adversely affecting the phase characteristics of the audio signal. ‘ This unique loudness technology aligns the phase of low- and mid-band frequencies above 300Hz for richer bass and clearer vocals,’ said Peter Amos, Managing Director of Amber Technology, which distributes Onkyo in Australia.
The A-9130 has line-level outputs, a subwoofer output, and a direct main power-amp input for connection of an external pre-amplifier. It also has a 1.6 mm metal’ said Amos. ‘.’ Measuring 435×129×330mm (HWD) and available now in silver or black, the Onkyo A-9130 retails for $599 (RRP).
