The ATLAS Sound and Vision lifestyle outlet in The Gardens Mall is not a typical hifi shop. I have been frequenting this shop for many years to purchase various BOSE products from wireless headphones to noise cancelling ones to bedroom lifestyle units. I also purchased my Bluesound bedroom units in a more recent years. So, when Megat invited me to listen to the DALI flagship KORE speakers, I was a bit puzzled. Nevertheless, the specific listening event happened during my busy business trips time, hence I missed it. Nevertheless, Megat was accommodating to have me come and listen to the set up on a later date. THANK YOU Megat!
I actually listened to these speakers in the previous KLIAV show in 2022 where it was paired with an NAD amp if I was not mistake. It did sound very majestic indeed. Now, in this shop, this speakers were paired with Devialet Expert Pro amplifier which is another brand that had always amazes me with its look and sound quality.
Although I played several test tracks, playing this track Soolaiman by Neil Diamond was the highlight of the session. The drums and percussion sounded full and delivered with such speed and accuracy. It really got my feet thumping away. Neil's vocal was also really engaging and the overall musical presentation was in fact again, majestic! In fact, I do feel the Devialet gave a better performance to pairing the KORE with the NAD amplifier in the past set up.
This was not a full assessment of the set up but more of a casual listening session in which I enjoyed it. The KORE is one fine speakers in every aspect of musical delivery an aesthatic looks. Its a masterpiece that demands a room that matches its performance.
This set up is not a permanent feature in this shop, so better give them a call first if you intend to listen the KORE.
The products from Audio Group Denmark (AGD) have been making waves in this part of the world in the past couple of years. Borresen, Aavik and Ansuz are the 3 main brands under AGD that local audiophiles have been entertained by in the past few hifi events. Now, the 4th brand have been introduced under the AGD, named AXXESS. This new brand was introduced to further expand the AGD fans demograhics through a entry level concept to the AGD sound.
On Saturday 8th July, Audio Perfectionist held a launch event, not only for AXXESS but also the Borresen X3 speakers. AXXESS first model is the FORTE all in one streamer and integrated amplifier. There were 2 sessions held , one at 2 to 4 pm and the other is at 4 to 6 pm.
According to Kenny, the FORTE amplifier which has 3 models (1, 2 and 3) is targeted for those who aims for simplicity and an avid streaming fan. The FORTE is equipped with UMAC (TM) technology to ensure stability, reliability and precision. The streamer section is derived from Aavik streamer module and contains high quality capacitors and does not use any microcomputers to reduce unwanted noise. The FORTE is also equipped with a class A headphone amplification. The FORTE offers 3 digital inputs (1 toslink, 1 BNC SPDIF, 1 USB), 1 RC pre out, 1 headphone jack 1/4" and 2 USB A inputs. It does not have a wireless module though so you will need an ethernet cable plugged into it to make the streamer work.
The X3 speakers is the entry level of the newly launched Borresen X Series speakers. The speaker design includes 1 x Borresen planar ribbon tweeter, 1 bass/mid 4.5" driver and 2 x 4.5" bass drivers. Eventhough the X series is set to be the entry level for Borresen speakers, it does not in any way given less attention in its design to deliver the unique Borresen sound to it.
For a demo of the FORTE and X3, please visit Audio Perfectonist in Petaling Jaya (Unit 91-1, Block H, Jaya One, Jln Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor) or Audio Maestro in Adelphi, Singapore.
Its like the HiFi and AV industry in Malaysia is back into the good old days. More and more shops are bringing in more variety to the audiophiles. A long pending components to be open to the fans are the TAD R1TX speakers, M700S stereo power amp, DA10000TX DAC and also the full suite of Innuos Products. Although TAD has been traditionally part of Audio Visual Designs Sdn. Bhd list of brands, the Innuous has just came onto the list and is now officially available for demo and purchase for local fans.
On Friday 7th July, these products have been officially launched at their outlet. Attended by the usual audiophiles and other media reps, the full capability of the set up was demoed to all attendees.
Excerpt of the event report from my article in hifi4sale.net is as below:
'Audio Visual Designs Sdn Bhd (AV Designs), the official distributor of TAD Laboratory products in Malaysia, launched the R1TX flagship speakers along with the M700S power amp and DA1000TX DAC on July 7. Apart from these TAD products, AV Designs also launched the full suite of Innuos products into the Malaysian market. AV Designs only recently took up the Innuos distributorship.
The launch event started with a quick recap of the R1 speakers' evolution over the past 16 years, followed by an introduction to the Innuous products. Guests and media folks were then entertained with various music genres prepared and presented by local hi-fi celeb Joseph Ki.
The original R1 came out in 2007, followed by R1MK2 in 2012 when the woofer cone design was upgraded. The R1MK2 remain as TAD's reference speaker until 2019, after which the R1TX was officially launched. However, due to the pandemic that followed, the R1TX could only be brought into Malaysia this year.
Although the R1TX retains the original cabinet design, TAD has enhanced its forming and processing method for the baffle. This new cabinet is made by Tendo Mokko, where the reinforcement and fitting methods were improved; the side to back panel configuration was also changed from three pieces to two. Besides these, TAD also enhanced the woofer suspension system. The R1TX comes in a full black design, apart from the traditional wood design on the side panels.
The M700S was also launched in 2019 by TAD but only reach our shores early this year. This stereo power amplifier (a mono version is also available) replaces the M600 which was launched back in 2009. The enhancements include an upgraded transformer from 2kVA to 2.8kVA, increased wattage from 600W to 700W, aluminium chassis instead of iron and also a new spike construction.
On the source side, the full Innuos suite of streaming solutions is now available officially in Malaysia. During the launch, the flagship Statement model was used as the source for the demo of the TAD set up. The Statement is a two-piece dedicated streaming unit with a separate power supply box. This brand from Portugal is not new name to streaming fans in Malaysia. The full range, from the entry-level called PULSEmini to the Statement, is now available from AV Designs.'
AV Designs has also taken the liberty to list Bassacontinuo HiFi racks as one of the brands on their list.
When I lookd at the size of the speakers, I had a concern of an overwhelming bass response. I am not fond of bass that gives out literally a physical impacton my body. One of those too hard of hitting that it makes it uncomfortable to listen to. But not with these TAD R1TX. Excellent balance of low frequency response coupled with high clarity in the mids and highs. The bass drum and also the percussion sounded really enegrized going through this system. It really gets me going, bringing me back to my younger days of clubbing. Now, on another piece, the sound of saxophone was really melodious and engaging. It matches well with the Innuos source.
\
Sampler 1
Sampler 2
For a demo session, please contact AV Designs (03-6241 1237).
Bookshelf speakers have its own merit and one who have gone through the phase of owning a pair (or a few pairs) will understand how special a bookshelf can be. For yours truly, the few pairs I had before were prime in their time in my set up. JPW, Mission, EPOS, PMC are just some of the brands that have landed in my set up before I moved to floor standing ones. So, when I was given the chance to have a listen to The Monitor by Alexandria Audio, I could not say no as my first impression listening to them in the shop was extra ordinary.
THE DESIGN
Although it is a bookshelf, the size of the cabinet is not at all the typical size of a bookshelf speaker. At 14 kg per unit, it stands at W 280 x H 450 x D 330 mm as it is fitted with an 8" woofer as the foundation of the design. The paper cone woofer is designed with high sensitivity and extended bandwidth to deliver a more natural and tight bass transient response. The neodymium tweeter is also designed at high sensitivity with high power handling and short waveguide to have a better dispersion control. Combined together in a birch plywood cabinet, The Monitor has a sensitivity rating of 90dB.
The Sound of Silence by The Ghost of Johnny Cash - TIDAL 16/44
Time To Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli - PCM 16/44
Soolaiman by Neil Diamond - QOBUZ 24/192
Enter Sandman by Metallica - TIDAL 16/44 Hi Res
All tracks played via ROON on HiFiROSE streamer feeding into Aavik D280 DAC.
THE SESSION
I only had the speakers for about 2 weeks but because it was already fully run in, it was totally a mesmerizing 2 weeks.
Take Five by Dave Brubeck
This track has always been my go to song for the 1st impression in my system. The Monitor delivered an exceptional deep and extended bass despite being a bookshelf. Rich and deep bass that did not overshadow any other part of the sound spectrum. The sound of the percussion especially the snare was crisp and at the right level of clarity. Each tingling sound of the tip of the drumstick that hits the ride cymbal was also sharp and dispersed accordingly. Every instrument on this track came out in harmony and it compliments each other nicely. The saxophone, although airy, still sounded luscious and engaging nevertheless. I was told that these speakers will sound even better if given a bigger distance between them. I can only imagine how bigger the presentation would be.
Take Five by Kenichi
This upbeat version of Take Five will usually get me going even more as its a new breathe of fresh air to this masterpiece. The double bass intro was already giving me goosebumps and once the saxophone came in, it became clear that The Monitor can really blast out a complex arrangement like this one. It kept its live ambience as if the band is just in front of me performing but at the same time, retained the tight and deep diving bass. The percussion somehow took a back seat on the overall presentation. The snare did not sound as crisp as the original track. The sound stage is still as huge as before, in fact might even sounded bigger given its live ambience.
The Sound of Silence
In the recent months, there is no other track that I go to test out vocal play. I was fully engaged when listening through The Monitor. It really gives detailed presentation of the vocal spectrum. Deep but at the same time the little details of Todd's vocal can be clearly heard and experienced. Even though the track is heavily dominated by the vocal, the little string works in the background can still be clearly heard an experienced, indicating The Monitor does not leave any of the details of the music out from the overall presentation.
Time To Say Goodbye
Now, even though the previous track nailed the vocal down, it still not as fulfilling as Time To Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman. This is such a classic duet but if played through a poorly designed speaker, one may not be able to deliver the huge and energetic vocal presentation and also the overall orchestral presentation. Sarah's vocal sounded sweet and luscious with no hint of sharpness even when she was belting out certain high notes. Andrea's vocal on the other hand continue to sound deep similar to the other tracks before.
Soolaiman
Now, this is is the highlight of the review session. This track on QOBUZ at 24/192 is a gem when it comes to its musicality and recording/mastering quality. The stereo imaging can really be experienced as The Monitor presents you with such a whole some but at the same time, a well positioned musical presentation experience. Right amount of tight and deep bass, luscious and melodious vocal and the huge sound stage provided me with one lively and engaging session, pulling me into such an enjoyable experience. This is how one need to experience this track.
Enter Sandman
The final track played is of course my all time favourite Metallica song, Enter Sandman. Many speakers I reviewed will start to show its weakness when playing this track. Good at jazz, vocal, ballad tracks but when a heavier music like this one is played, all joy in life just disappear. Not the case for The Monitor. It delivered this song with such authority that I would say that this speakers is The Special One as it is not fussy to belt out any musical genres with ease. It is not the best of I heard for this track but it is not far off from what kind of sound I like to hear on this track. The one that was most noticeable for me was the guitar riffs. It did not sound as ferocious as Kirk Hammet sound when playing through a floor standing speakers.
THE CONCLUSION
If I ever wanted to go back to a bookshelf speaker set up, The Monitor is The Special One that I will go to. Somehow, at this stage I can't think of any other bookshelf that can deliver such a powerful performance that can easily outplay some of the floor standing speakers out there. High sensitivity design that can adapt to various musical genres with a presentation that brings out the best of recordings and mastering. If I am asked to describe The Monitor in 3 words, it would be - Musical, Engaging, Punchy
If you would like to demo The Monitor, please contact Gan at Uniq Fidelity
Uniq Fidelity Sdn. Bhd. ( Gan ) M1-7-07 8Trium, Jalan Cempaka SD12/5, 52200 Bandar Sri Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia info@uniqfidelity.com +60 11-3134 7900
If there is one hifi brand that I like but have yet to review in my house is TAD. Exclusively distributed by Audio Visual Designs Sdn. Bhd. in Malaysia, I have only enjoyed its majestic sound in their show room either back in Rohas Perkasa or in their existing shop along Jalan Kuching. When James Tan informed me of the arrival of the classy looking Evolution 1 E1Tx floorstanding speakers, C600 pre amp and M700S power amp, I knew that I have to go and have a listen to the set up.
Given I am about to start my 1 week annual vacation, I told myself to go and have a listen to this set up on 25th Feb before I go on leave...... and it was all worth it.
The M700S stereo power amp weighs about 75 kg and the chasiss and the 4 legged platform is actually comes as a 1 piece unit! Maintaining its industrial look but in a such classy and minimalist design that will get the WAF approved. It will be a challenge to get a rack that will fit this so most probably for potential owners, it will be set up on the floor.
Its unique design includes:
Vibration-Suppressing technology
Lower Centre of Gravity
High Power Ampification (175 wpc on 8 ohm)
Extra large capacity power supply
Simplified First Stage Circuitry
Dual Logic circuit technology
The Evolution One E1TX is in its class of its own. From physical shape to its finishing, it is another TAD product that will have high WAF. It is a 3 way bass reflex speakers with a 16 cm woofer cone and 9 cm mid and 2.5 cm tweeter berylium dome. It is designed with 88 dB sensitivity.
Standing tall at 1215 mm with a width of 350 mm and depth of 512 mm, this speakers weighs about 46 kg each.
I spent about 1.5 hours here and this is my first impression of the whole set up. TAD have given serious thoughts across the whole sound flow from source to pre amp to power amp to the speakers. The seamless integration throughout the chain was effortless. You can play any genres and it will just adapt itself to provide a presentation that somehow to me is limitless headroom. The sound just keeps on growing as if the sound stage just keeps filling up the room.
The bass was taut, extended just the way I like it. At no stage ever it overpower the mids and highs. It was so coherent that the musicality was just mesmerizing. My initial expectation of this set up was actually to be more laid back given my experience listening to other Japanese hifi. Boy...I was wrong. This is a very convincing, engaging and upfront system.
The price range is out of my reach at the moment as the retail price goes to about RM500K for all 3 pieces (pre, power and speakers) but I still can savour the musical experience.
Do go and have a listen to this set up as to me, it is one of the rare set ups one can experience in Malaysia.
Contact AV Designs through James Tan on 016-3280237
On 17th August 2022 marks another spectacular milestone for our local hifi outfit Audio Perfectionist as they welcome Mads Klifoth, CEO of Audiovector to grace their official launch event of both the R and QR speakers series. During this event, the models were introduced are the R6, R3 and QR7.
Yes, you are correct! AUDIOVECTOR is not a new name in Malaysia but Audio Perfectionist have just been appointed as the new official distributor for Malaysia. Exciting times indeed for them.
WHAT IS NEW WITH AUDIOVECTOR?
The R - Series
Treble Drivers - Their Signature Soft dome designs have always been ahead of their time. Featuring a silk done which is supported on its rear side by a pressure regulating accelarator, a no compression driver - due to its open back which is carefully adjusted to work in their unique Soundstage Enhancement Concept (SEC).
The Avantgarde & Arrete Air Motion Transformer treble drivers are probably the fastest treble drive construction you can find. Based on the original and revolutionary technology invented vy Dr. Oscar Heil, their AMT tweeters have no mass to accelrate or decelerate. It can reach up to more than 52 KHz with perfect dispersion on both horizontal and vertical planes.
The AMT features ultra strong Neodymium magnets, lightweight precision coated mylar membranes and are mounted and decoupled from the cabinet in 3 points, a proprietary concept, No Energy Storage (NES). The tweeters are open to the front and to the rear, being able to move freely due to the SEC.
The Freedom Grounding Concept addresses the movement induced distortion of and between the drive units in the loudspeaker. The currents running between the chassis are being processed and dealt with through a new separate crossover which routes the signal to the ground terminal of the wall socket or grounded mains distributor. These currents cause coloration and distrotion between drive units. By balancing and filtering these through a dedicated spearate filter and by offering the possibility of connecting them to earth/ground, a cleaner and accurate sound can be achieved with lower noise floor.
The QR Series
The QR-7 paired with McIntosh electronics
This is the entry level of Audiovector that offers hyper dynamic, neutrall sounding loudspeakers with big and open soundstage. The concept is classic designs with a twist that out perform competition in this segment.
The goal has always been to offer the most advanced technology in a perfectly finished and proportioned high end package. The sound is big, bold and dynamic yet subtle and detailed when required.
Due to its gentle impedance load and high efficiency, it is an easily driven speakers with either solid state or tube amps.
The QR Air Motion Transformer Treble (AMT) Driver are the fastest high frequency drivers available now and can reach up to higher than 40 KHz with fine dispersion in both horizontal and vertical plane.
By using high precision components in combination with their in house designed drive units, they can use a target function filtering which uses minimal components to achieve a high precision roll-off profile on all drivers resulting in better dynamics, lower loss and less heat build-up.
This series was also designed to handle power transients with precision and low distortion with all genres of music. There is just one Xover component in series with each driver which allows for an easy amplifier load.
This is one happy family
For a demo, head on to Audio Perfectionist
Unit 91-1, Block H, Jaya One, 72A, Jalan Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
