What is the Amarra Computer Music Player? Simply put, it is software that raises sound quality from iTunes on a Macintosh computer to the highest level. While it integrates itself into the very familiar and friendly Apple iTunes software, it completely takes over from the Apple OSX operating system the critical task of decoding a music file and sending it to the DAC via USB, Firewire or in-built Toslink interface. The result is significantly improved and consistent sound quality, from standard CD resolution 16bit/44.1kHz files all the way to 24bit/192kHz.
Amarra is created by Sonic Studio, who has been for 20 years a leading company in computer-based pro audio mastering, and has the technology and know-how to achieve the highest level of sound fidelity on the Macintosh platform.
Audio Art Cable from USA has earned a solid reputation for producing top-notch cables at honest prices. There are numerous positive reviews and testimonials from users, and our own evaluation have confirmed that these are very very good cables indeed. At the recent ISSE 2009 HiFi show our demo system is fully wired with Audio Art Cable’s interconnects and speaker cables, garnering excellent feedback from visitors. We are very happy to be appointed distributor for these excellent cables, and the first batch of cables have just arrived. More information coming soon; please refer to the manufacturer’s website in the meantime, and call/email us if you have any questions.
From Ayon Audio of Austria comes the new Orion – a very fine entrance into high-end tube amplification. The new Orion represents a dramatic rethinking of vacuum tube based integrated amplifier industrial design while retaining the basic architecture as the highly regarded “Spirit” amplifier.
The Orion integrated amplifier combines neutrality, realistic dynamics and power projection, excellent musicality with high resolution. Perfect finish, elegant discrete design and outstanding sonic performance make the Orion unique, setting a new price-to-value standard in its class.
The Voodoo Boards are a time-tested design; they have been very effective in our showroom demos and at the recent ISSE show. Why is it such an effective isolation board? It is very massive at 18kg(!) and its elegant wooden structure is filled with about 4 million(!) tiny ball bearings. This combination of high mass and high damping capability provide an anti-resonance platform that quite simply, works. Dimensions are 484.5mm (W) x 51mm (H) x 403mm (D).
The new Emerald Physics CS3 have arrived! The CS3 represents the next generation in Emerald Physics’ quest for live music reproduction. It employs a new 12 inch point source driver with compression tweeter. This high efficiency coaxial design creates the realism Emerald Physics loudspeakers are famous for in a smaller, less expensive package.
The design of CS3 goes to great lengths to overcome the acoustic challenges found in our real-world listening rooms. Its open-baffle and controlled directivity technology minimizes interaction between the speaker and listening room, and advanced DSP processing allows for room acoustics correction.
Incredibly cute, yes… but once these little amps (think CD size) starts singing you realise it’s really a case of substance over style. It is well known that “tube watts” are something else, but until you hear how these 2.5-watters sing with the Omega single-driver loudspeakers you might not believe what 2.5 watts can do!

Here’s the solution to a problem from which far too many audiophiles suffer – too much gain in the system. The symptoms are easy enough to spot – the volume is plenty loud enough with the volume control set to the 9 o’clock position, too loud with the volume control at 10 o’clock, and fine control at low levels is impossible. This may seem like nothing more than a minor irritation, but in truth the performance of the system is being compromised.
The In-line Attenuators from Rothwell UK are designed to:
Click here for more product reviews and information, and here for more information on how they work.
The JLTi PhonoPre from VacuumState of Switzerland have arrived! More information soon…
New Violet ZII powercords from Black Sand Cables have arrived. More information soon!
New solid core silver loudspeaker cables from Clear Day Cables have arrived! More information soon…
The excellent Jelco tonearms from Japan have arrived! In stock now are the Jelco SA-750D and Jelco SA-250ST. For a great “5 globes” review of the SA-750D click here. Also in stock are the excellent Jelco tonearm cables.
Pleased to announce the arrival of the following Nagaoka products from Japan!
NEW range of Nagaoka phono cartridges – Nagaoka cartridges are well known to be affordable over-achievers. You won’t find any hype here, only substance. Engineered to perfection, the quality of these cartridges belies their modest price. Nagaoka only makes MM cartridges, and is fully focused on making the best. This new range achieves not only the trademark smooth sound of MM cartriges, but also the transparency and accuracy in tonality traditionally associated with MC cartridges. MM cartridges have come a long way! All Nagaoka cartridges features a replaceable stylus to protect your investment. View the full range here.
Nagaoka CL-152 Record Cleaner – Way better than any record brush! There is no better way to clean off the dust and light fingerprints on your records. Dust stick to records due to static, making them difficult to brush off; and brushing tend to generate even more static! The Nagaoka’s very soft and sticky rolling surface actually lift dirt not only from the record surface, but from the record grooves too. It is easily washable and can be used and re-used for many years to come. Your records will stay in tip-top condition longer, with much less wet cleaning required. ”Analogue must-have! … this is one of the best HiFi accessories around, with an impressive value for money ratio.” - Review by TNT-Audio.
Nagaoka No.102 Anti-static Record Sleeves - Considered by many to be the finest record sleeves. Being U-shaped and made of a fine material means they are perfect either as a substitute/replacement sleeve, or for inserting into original paper sleeves. Each pack contains 50 sleeves.
Following Ayon’s multiple-award winning CD-1, Ayon has now launched the new
CD-1s and CD-2! Not only does the new models improve upon the trademark highly analog yet superbly detailed, and wonderfully engaging sound, they now also feature digital inputs which makes them excellent vacuum-tube based DAC’s as well! Further, the inclusion of remote-controlled volume means you have the flexibility of running them direct into power amps! As with all Ayon creations, they are beautifully crafted in Austria,with top-notch build quality and finishing.