Puretone Audio 367 Bantam Rd Litchfield CT 860-361-9495

A Quick One...on Record Pressing

2012-01-14T15:18:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since Puretone Audio updated the news page...that's because we have been B-U-S-Y. Lots of new stuff coming in, lots of exciting things happening in the industry and new product hitting the shelves.In terms of mailorder - things are speeding forward rapidly. the Discogs Marketplace continues to be our main outlet for vinyl, and the worldwide thirst for records continues unabated. Brazil, Australia and the Russian Federation have been two of our biggest outlets for growth, and almost every trip to the post office includes parcels leaving for far off places. We also just received our first three 200G titles from Acoustic Sounds' new state of the art Quality Record Pressings plant; Cat Stevens Tea For the Tillerman, and Texas blues great Freddie King's Texas Cannonball and Getting Ready.<>

"These (two new LPs from Reference Recordings) and Analog Production's remastering of Tea for the Tillerman were both pressed at Quality Record Pressings, the superb Salina, Kansas, facility, and they are the best and the quietest LPs I've heard of recordings made during the LP era. In a sense, the silences of QRP's pressings, their lack of those hard-to-define anomalies of stylus-in-groove sonics, are comparable to the kind of quietness inherent in a magnetic-drive turntable...QRP has put its best feet forward. 'Spectacular' in this case means a freedom from defects (snaps, crackles, and pops) and an absence of groove noise and what I would call vinyl 'rumble,' hard to define except by contrast with normal pressings." - Harry Pearson, The Absolute Sound, January 2012 (or Issue 219)"...All you really need to know is that in every way this first effort from 'QRP' is of the highest quality...gatefold packaging which looks just like the original, only better. As far as the sound goes it is equally brilliant...And wow listening to this impeccably pressed on 200g vinyl reissue. The attack of the pick on the guitar strings is astonishingly clean and detailed. Depth is pronounced and because of both the blackness of the backdrop and the precision of both the state-of-the-art plating and the technological breakthroughs achieved in the retro-fitted presses, the resolution of low-level detail reveals a host of details that are either buried or glossed over on the other versions I've heard and own." - Jack Roberts, Dagogo, October 2011 "...Like the glossy gatefold covers used in their deluxe Impulse 45 RPM series, the cover reproduction here is absolutely top-notch...The vinyl itself arrived perfectly clean and flat, and played with nary a pop or tic throughout...The pressing is of extremely high quality." - My Vinyl Review, August 29, 2011

Released in 1972 as the second of Freddie King's three releases for Shelter Records, Leon Russell's Tulsa-based label. In fact, when Russell first formed Shelter, he reportedly did so partly to play out his vision of recording one of his favorites, Freddie King.King's output on Texas Cannonball includes brilliant covers of songs by Howlin' Wolf, Lowell Fulson, Leon Russell, Bill Withers and Elmore James. Backing artists include many musicians who played with Eric Clapton in the 1970s. Clapton has stated many times over that Freddie King was among his chief influences. Supporting musicians include Leon Russell on piano, Carl Radle and Donald "Duck" Dunn on bass, Jim Gordon, Chuck Blackwell and Al Jackson on drums, Don Preston on guitar and John Gallie on organ.Recorded at Ardent Studios in Memphis in February 1972.

"...the pure analog sound and straightforward recording technique let the music speak for itself...has an immediacy that few contemporary recordings can match, and with the QRP vinyl you'll get so much closer to the sound of the analog master tape." - Steve Guttenberg, The Audiophiliac, August 28, 2011Freddie King is easily one of the most influential blues guitarists of his or any generation. Any blues enthusiast or guitar aficionado would have him ranked high on their list of all-time greats. He was a guitar hero before there was "Guitar Hero".Getting Ready... was King's first of three releases for Shelter Records, Leon Russell's Tulsa-based label. In fact, when Russell first formed Shelter, he reportedly did so partly to play out his vision of recording one of his favorites, Freddie King. Recorded in October 1970 at the TER-MAR Chess Studios in Chicago and released in 1971, Getting Ready... is proof positive that King was the man and that Shelter Records was one cool label. The record includes a cover of Jimmy Rogers' classic "Walking By Myself" and King references Rogers also in the lyrics of another track on the record, "Living On The Highway". Rogers was the first artist to record for Acoustic Sounds' own APO Records label and the first to appear in concert at Acoustic Sounds' Blue Heaven Studios.More APO and Blue Heaven tie-ins to Freddie King include Jimmie Lee Robinson, who while living was the veritable soul of APO and Blue Heaven. When King moved from Texas to Southside Chicago around 1950, he formed his first ever band, The Every Hour Blues Boys, with Robinson. The backing band for Getting Ready... includes the stud cast of Leon Russell on piano and guitars, Duck Dunn on bass, Don Preston on guitar, Jon Gallie on organ, Chuck Blackwell on drums and Charles Myers on drums.

Also, Acoustic Sounds' Quality Record Pressings plant is now pressing Sundazed Records vinyl, which has great titles from Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel and my personal favorite, Iggy & the Stooges' Raw Power. In the past Sundazed has been plagued by inconsistent pressing quality, as some records sound great and others were noisy. To find our latest and greatest vinyl listings and keep track of what has come in over the previous week, check out our PhoenixRex Discogs store.

Spy Shots of New Rega RS10 Speakers and IOS Reference Preamplifer

2011-11-19T13:43:00.001-05:00

French website On-TopAudio.fr recently posted spy pics of two new Rega reference-series items from the Paris High Fidelity audio show. First up was the RS10 speaker, which is filling the void at the top of the Rega product line left by the discontinuation of the R9 speakers in 2009. Malheureusement, my French isn't as sharp as it once was, but here is a rough translation of the article's findings:

The RS10 is a high-end floorstanding speaker, at a price that is still very reasonable. It seems to be, according to preliminary information we have gleaned, a three-way or four-way model loudspeaker. The cabinet is relatively deep and narrow. At the top of the facade of a polished-brushed metal baffle is installed a funny medium diaphragm transducer plane which should be about 10 cm in diameter, and overlooking an impregnated textile dome 19 mm in diameter. On the side are three openings, masked by a countersunk black cloth cover. According to the explanations given to us by officials of the company that distributes GT Audio Rega in France, two major speakers (13 and 21 cm in diameter) and an outlet vent. The first speaker works in close support while the latter would benefit from an acoustic line leading through the vent located next door. In addition, two speakers would work in series. Everybody (woofer speakers but also vent) with a different resonaant frequency, this would have a more linear response in the lower register.

The French page also gave a rave on the sound quality: "It was one of the best surprises of the 2011 session of the High Fidelity Lounge."Also spied in the equipment rack below the ISIS model CD player and OSIRIS power amplifier was a new version of the IOS preamplifier. So conventional logic would seem to follow Rega will round out the reference components series with a new top line turntable, perhaps the long-rumored, carbon and x-braced P10?Hmmm....no word on pricing or availability yet.The full, untranslated article is here...

KEF Previews New R Series at CEDIA

2011-10-05T15:19:00.002-04:00

Never content to rest on accolades and plaudits, KEF recently announced the new R series line, fusing the best technology of the Blade design with the beauty and affordability of the R series. The result, speaker performance at a price point everyone can appreciate.

More coming soon...

Wish No More: Pink Floyd Classic Coming on SACD

2011-08-20T13:35:00.004-04:00

Our good friends at Analogue Productions have pulled the coup of the century (thus far) with the announcement of a forthcoming SACD pressing of the Pink Floyd classic Wish You Were Here, scheduled for release in November. And of course, like the rest of the APO SACD catalog, we WILL have it here at Puretone Audio!

Wish You Were Here is a multitrack masterpiece. Now, to have it mixed for 5.1 surround sound from the original analog master tapes by Pink Floyd's Producer/Engineer James Guthrie is, well, pretty damn exciting.

Is this the biggest SACD reissue in the history of the format? Time will tell, but don't bet against it.

Wish You Were Here(?) Now you can be. Total lifelike recreation of a chart-topping, pioneering, way-ahead-of-its-time blockbuster.

You talk about a title made for multichannel SACD! It's as if they knew 35 years ago that this format would be available. Finally, technology caught up with Pink Floyd. And oh how lucky we all are to still be around to hear this legendary studio recording in its full potential.

Pink Floyd chose Acoustic Sounds and Analogue Productions to handle the exclusive production and distribution of this monumental SACD and we are honored and thrilled to be a part of EMI's huge Why Pink Floyd...? campaign that includes remastered CDs, Blue-rays, DVDs, LPs, memorabilia box sets and this, the first-ever multichannel presentation of Wish You Were Here.

On its release in 1975 Wish You Were Here topped the album charts in both the UK and the U.S. Reflecting the band's thoughts of the time on the music business and exploring themes of absence, Wish You Were Here contains the classic cut "Shine On You Crazy Diamond," a tribute to founding band member Syd Barrett.

In fact, Barrett, who'd long been absent from the lives of Pink Floyd's band members, stopped by the Wish You Were Here recording sessions at London's Abbey Road Studios unannounced. The reunion - with Barrett reportedly appearing in poor mental condition - is said to have been an emotionally stirring event for the band, and apparently that encounter would be the last any of the band members were ever to see of Barrett, who died in 2006.

As they did with their previous release, Dark Side of the Moon, Pink Floyd made great use of studio effects for this, their ninth album overall. The record's winding soundscapes are perfect for the canvas of multichannel SACD. Spacious and airy, the record breathes like a living being.

Wish You Were Here was selected by Rolling Stone as No. 209 on their list of "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time". And that's before they heard it like this!

5.1 surround mix by James Guthrie

Assistant engineer Joel Plante

Mastered by James Guthrie and Joel Plante

Mixed and mastered at das boot recording

DSD authoring for SACD by Gus Skinas

The Acoustic Sounds Nat "King" Cole Reissue Series

2011-08-02T17:27:00.000-04:00

NOW IN STOCK! New Rega Brio-R Amplifer Gets Thumbs Up From Tone Audio

2011-07-02T14:05:00.006-04:00

Not ever content to rest on the considerable acclaim they have earned in the audio industry, the fine blokes at Rega Research have introduced the latest evolution of the popular Brio amplifier series.

The Brio-R is smaller in stature than its predecessor but bigger in sound. At a list price of just $895, the new Brio-R is a gamechanger in the small amplifier field. It packs 49 watts of power into the half-size chassis, yet still finds room inside for a world-class phono stage.

Good Things Do Come in Small Packages
The Rega Brio-R sets the benchmark for an $1000 integrated amplifier and then some. While it’s easy for those that regularly hear the world’s best (and often most expensive) gear to get excited about great sound, it’s truly thrilling to hear this level of sound quality from an amplifier with an $895 price tag. Music lovers on a budget no longer have to sacrifice quality. This one could make a crazed audiophile out of you where you least expect it.
-Jeff Dorgay

Our good friends at Tone Audio Magazine have posted a world-exclusive first Brio-R review and you can find it here.

We now how both black and silver Brio-R models in stock.

Some RECORD STORE DAY NOTES

2011-04-15T10:54:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I posted anything here. Busy, busy, busy! And still coughing from my trip to Florida.

In any case I've been inundated with calls/questions/etc. about Record Store Day tomorrow (Saturday, April 16).

First off, despite getting tons of merch in, the labels once again did an awesome job of getting people fired up about things that only marginally exist.

Most notable among these releases is the one I got the most calls/message on...Phish. We ordered 25 copies of TWO SOUNDCHECKS and received zero. Zip. Zilch. Or as they say on Top Gear, zed. So if you are planning on making the trip solely for that release, sorry, but would rather tell you now. Same goes for The Deftones. And I passed on Jimmy Eat World because it's total rip-off at $45.98.

The Third Man Records releases were problematic: announced at the last minute, we WERE supposed to be getting three copies of each, which turned into NOT getting ANY of them. BUT White Stripes fans please note that the 7 inchers for RSD will be released as conventional black vinyl releases in a few weeks, as well as the Rome single which will be available. The Karen Elson single was, however, one time only. And luckily as a result of this, we've solidified a relationship with 3MR's distributor, which should make it much easier to get stuff from them in the future.

As for the rest of the stuff - yes, a lot of notable exclusions on the arrivals. But tons of stuff came in, including Bruce Springsteen, Flaming Lips, The Cars, OFF!, Bob Dylan, Mastodon, etc, etc.

And to make it fair for everyone, I've done the following:

* The early bird does not always get the worm. I worked second shift at the newspaper for several years, so I take a dim view of early birding. So I've divided the RSD releases up into three batches and will put them out at 10:00 AM, Noon, and 2:00 PM so that people arriving throughout the day can find cool stuff.

Also, in light of a few conversations last year, it's still ONE of any item per person. I don't care if your mother's brother's sixteenth cousin wants an extra copy. Then they should come and buy it themselves. Please don't put me an awkward position of lecturing about this. Buy what you want, for yourself, and be happy. THAT is what it's all about. Not speculation. Give others a chance to get something they might want.

In keeping with the RSD tradition, we're also going to have 10% off all non-RSD stock. Including Rega turntables!!! So if you have been putting off a gear purchase it will be your lucky day. Have several RP1s in stock (Cool Grey, Titanium and White) so you can save $45 by buying one tomorrow.

Our store hours will be 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Have a rocking Record Store Day! See you tomorrow!

KEF - The Q Series Explained

2011-03-16T14:51:00.002-04:00

Great speakers.
Great prices.
Great engineering.
Superb sound.

What more do you need?

Arctic Monkeys Tease New Album with Vinyl Love

2011-03-10T10:42:00.002-05:00

Favorite (or should it be favourite?) Brits The Arctic Monkeys return with this teaser from a new album recorded live to analog 24-track tape over a 17 day span by producer James Ford at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles. Can you say old school?

Their fourth album, entitled 'Suck It and See' on Monday 6th June 2011. The album will be released in the US on Tuesday 7th June 2011 and features 12 songs and, of course, will be available on vinyl, as well as CD and digital download.

Monday Morning Music Quote - Jason "Spaceman" Pierce

2011-03-07T08:54:00.003-05:00

"There is a guy called Jim Dickinson who produced a lot of Memphis artists and he has this theory that music is all about electricity pushing air molecules around, so it therefore stands to reason that all the best music comes from sea level, where the molecules are thicker - places like Memphis, Louisiana, Los Angeles and Austin. I don't know if the science stands up, but I love the idea."

- Jason Pierce of Spacemen 3 and Spiritualized

*(and of course, Jim Dickinson produced one of my Top-10 all time favorites in Big Star and his family tradition is carried on by his sons Luther and Cody Dickinson of the North Mississippi All Stars)

Monday Morning Music Quote - Ian McLagan

2011-02-28T11:27:00.006-05:00

"We were staying at Holiday Inns as they were usually clean and dependable, but ultimately extremely boring and soul-destroying homes from home. The monotony got to everybody after a time. It was not possible to walk into the identical room in twenty different cities without wanting to hurt it, just a little. If there was anything built to be destroyed, it was the two-storey, motel model Holiday Inn."

- The Faces keyboardist Ian McLagan on life on the road in the 1970s United States. The band recently announced they would be touring again, with a surprise lead singer, Mick Hucknall of Simply Red and bass player, ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock. On the tour itinerary is an appearance at the prestigious Goodwood Festival, one of my favorite events in the world.

Monday Morning Music Quote

2011-02-21T11:19:00.004-05:00

"I`m not very good at holding grudges for very long, but he`s done some terrible things." - David Gilmour, on former Pink Floyd bandmate Roger Waters.

Rega Osiris: The Ultimate Integrated?

2011-02-16T10:29:00.017-05:00

Hmmm, could this be what I think it is? A super heavy box from The Sound Organisation delivered by Chris the FedEx guy? Well, if you have already scanned the attached headline, you know what must be inside...

Deep under a thick pair of double boxes lurks a hefty branded wooden crate much like the kind used to deliver our favorite wines? Hefty woodscrews and dovetail joinery...had to run upstairs to borrow a power screwdriver.

Ahh, an Osiris instruction manual and a thick injection-molded foam cover with the Rega logo in relief letters across the top. Yes, the top of Rega's Reference kit, the 162 wpc., no-holds-barred Osiris integrated amplifier has landed.

Nestled snugly within foam confines lies the Osiris, much like its ancient Egyptian namesake, the god of the afterlife. And what a fine afterlife it will be with stereo sound like this. Imagine how it would sound with Radiohead's epic Pyramid Song wafting from the speakers.

With the included Rega Reference Mains power cable attached and hefty milled aluminum remote in hand, the Osiris is prepared for rising. And by "hefty", I do mean heavy enough to be a possible murder weapon in CLUE.

Powered up with, KEF Reference 205/2s attached, the Osiris is all of the superlatives and more. After spending a long weekend with exotic gear at CES, I thought that I had heard it all. I was wrong. For a fantastic in-depth revue of Osiris' virtues, we invite you to read Jeff Dorgay's glowing review in ToneAudio magazine.
Or stop in and hear it for yourself.
It's worth the trip.
And more.

More Music You Might Not Have Heard: Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan

2011-02-10T10:31:00.007-05:00

Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan perform Ramblin' Man from WBEZ on Vimeo.

Scottish chanteuse Isobel Campbell recently teamed with crooner Mark Lanegan for a third album Hawk on Vanguard Records that not only achieved a steady stream of critical acclaim, but also made many Best of 2010 lists.

Both artists are personal favorites of mine, so I'll try to avoid the cliche-laden descriptives that I've seen of the angelic-voiced Campbell with the fire-and-brimstone bellow of Lanegan and encourage you to check it out and let the music do the talking.

There is more video as well as streaming audio at the WBEZ 91.5 website. I strongly encourage you to pick up Hawk, available on vinyl as well as CD, or the duo's superb second album Sunday At Devil Dirt which features several US-only bonus tracks and a fantastic soundstage and sparse "sitting
in the room" production.

Vandelles Premier New Single: We've Got Their CDs For Sale

2011-02-02T19:14:00.003-05:00

I've been telling anyone who will listen (and even some that won't) that the BEST place to find new music is on Last.fm which absolutely slays the overrated Pandora with depth, obscurity and a fantastic associative matching engine. And a few months ago Last.fm treated me to this gem.

Do you like the Jesus & Mary Chain? The Ventures? The Flaming Stars?

How 'bout some fuzzed-out-surf-noir-cascading-feedback-psychofried-rawk n' roll?

If so, check out our friends from Brooklyn, The Vandelles. It's all of the above and more. Their new single Get Around is up at Alarm Press.

And of course, being a reformed OCD CD-collecting-collector completist, I had to contact The Vandelles and pick up multiple copies of their impossible-to-find previous releases to share with my worldwide friends. Both the self-titled EP and the full length Del Black Aloha are available for purchase in our Discogs store.

Not enough? If you are in the New York metro area, go see them at Pianos in the lower east side Saturday night.

Rawk on.

Wilco Starts Own Label While Majors Burn

2011-01-27T10:39:00.005-05:00

While the mainstream media continues to shovel yet another truckload of doom-and-gloom, sky-is-falling, Rome-is-burning stories perpetuated by the cartel of major record labels (which in fact haven't been record labels, but rather cash cows to be reliably milked daily by the parent companies); other people who are passionate about music and musicians are seizing the opportunity provided by the implosion of the industry's big guns.

Wilco is the latest band to strike out on its own with a bespoke label. Based in Easthampton, Mass., dBpm Records will be distributed by the equally sovereign Anti- Records group (yes, the same folks that give us Tom Waits, Neko Case and Grinderman, among others).

It's this kind of foresight that puts music back into the ears of not just the consumers, but the fans, while downsized and bombed out monolithic record companies continue to wring their hands with fright.

Of the 50 or so energetic and omnivorous people I met when I first joined the industry in the late 1980s, perhaps a handful of them are still there, either victims of downsizing or tired of beating their collective heads against the beancounters' walls. These are people who knew music inside and out and made it not only their livelihoods, but their lives from dawn til, well, dawn. Some of gone back into independent music and are finding the journey and lack of red tape much more gratifying while other still love music, but hate the business.

Personally, I think it's a great time to be involved in the record industry. More music is available and accessible than ever before thanks to places like like Last.fm, and much of it continuing to evolve into higher and higher quality formats, along with the "resurgence" of vinyl.

Wilco has put their own money into the till with the highly successful Solid Sound Festival at MassMOCA, which will return this summer.

So while the equally monolithic and endangered New York Times continues to pander to the record industry (yes, those same insightful people that brought us the sue-your-consumers RIAA) and its ridiculous PR claims about downloading threatening the viability of over-leveraged hedge fund wagers like EMI Records, the music itself flows on like a river, finding new and organic outlets that are better and stronger than before.

Maybe it's time for me to pick up the fiddle again, eh?

New Analogue Productions SACDs In Stock Now!

2011-01-21T18:30:00.004-05:00

Nat King Cole - Where Did Everyone Go? $34 Analogue Productions
In what some consider his last great album prior to his tragic passing, Nat "King" Cole approached the dramatic dark side of love in the spirit of Sinatra's saloon songs to timeless, haunting effect with the album Where Did Everyone Go? The distinctive orchestrations of Gordon Jenkins for strings accompany the intimately expressive and supremely musical voice of the incomparable Nat "King" Cole in such classic songs as "Someone To Tell It To," "I Keep Going Back To Joe's," "Spring Is Here," "The End Of A Love Affair" and other reflections of one who had and now has not. Nat "King" Cole and arranger Gordon Jenkins followed their hit albums Love Is The Thing and The Very Thought Of You with this striking shift toward the dramatic. The result again stands among its era's finest, most stylistically defining recordings of popular music and still retains its grand sense of tragedy and beauty. Using the original first generation 3-track session tapes from Capitol's vaults and custom headstacks, console and monitoring chain installed at AcousTech specially for these releases, mastering engineers Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman along with DSD specialist Gus Skinas bring you an entirely incomparable SACD experience. For this deluxe hybrid SACD, the album is featured in stereo on the standard resolution CD layer and high resolution stereo DSD layer, while the DSD multi-channel layer features high resolution 3-channel sound. Two bonus tracks recorded for the album, "A Farewell to Arms" and "Happy New Year," are included for their first release in original production quality. In addition a 3,200-word essay by Chris Hall about the album is included. No expense was spared to make this the ultimate digital version of this album and a historic reissue. Originally released in 1963. *(5 available)

Nat King Cole - After Midnight $34 Analogue Productions
In this felicitous blending of Nat "King" Cole's supreme talents as jazz pianist and vocalist with small combos featuring fellow jazz alumni, classic pop and jazz met in a wildly successful brew. A combination of new and familiar songs are featured, including fresh recordings of classic hits like "Route 66." Musicians include Harry "Sweets" Edison, Juan Tizol, Lee Young, Stuff Smith and Willie Smith augmenting his famous Trio. In addition to the full original album, five additional tracks and one alternate take from the original sessions are included in this release. Mellow, classy, focused and vibrant, After Midnight was a hit and an instant classic upon its release in 1956 and remains a gem to treasure today. Mastered from the original first-generation full-track monaural session tapes by Steve Hoffman, Kevin Gray and Gus Skinas to high resolution DSD and standard CD, the exemplary recording is presented in appropriately exquisite sound quality. Recorded in 1956. *(5 available)

Freddie Hubbard - The Body & The Soul $30 Analogue Productions Impulse! Series.
The second of trumpeter Freddie Hubbard's two Impulse albums features the 25-year old in three separate settings. He is heard along with a tenor-saxophonist backed by strings ("Skylark," "I Got It Bad" and "Chocolate Shake" are all given beautiful treatments), with a 16-piece band and in a septet with Eric Dolphy and Wayne Shorter. This well-rounded and highly recommended showcase shows why Freddie Hubbard was considered the top trumpeter to emerge during the early '60s. Mastered by Kevin Gray (1 left!)

Hank Mobley - No Room For Squares $30 Analogue Productions Impulse! Series.
One of Mobley's best, this album features two 1963 all-star quintets: one with Lee Morgan and Andrew Hill, the other with Donald Byrd and Herbie Hancock. Philly Joe Jones is the driving force throughout. Mastered by Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman. *(1 available)

More CES Pics - Less Cab Lines

2011-01-13T10:29:00.013-05:00

Over the top? That's Vegas in a nutshell.

The main entry hall of the Venetian Hotel, host for the high-end audio portion of the CES festivities. Not shown in this pic were all of the porn "starlets" buzzing (pun intended) around all weekend for the AVN show (it was far too early to see their bleary eyes at 9:00 AM.)

Yes, that's also a wholehearted recommendation to douse one's self with hand-sanitizer while attending CES.

Cambridge Audio showed a new iPOD/iPAD dock that extracts using Apple's pure digital stream to bypass internal DACs to the DAC of your choice at the ridiculously low price of $299. As digital audio increases in popularity, economics of scale will rule the marketplace, with bargains like this becoming more common. Anticipated release date for the US/North America is March, with a matching DAC to follow later in the year.

Whew. The warm glow of Cary Audio's CAD 211 Founder's Series twin monoblocks drew me in like a bug to a zapper.

Like a moth to a flame.

Like a bird to a...wire?

All jokes aside, seriously some of the best sound I've ever heard come out of tube power. An interesting design with a pair of 300Bs as power tubes and a pair of giant 845s in the output stage, providing the best of SET, Class A, Class B and Class A/B designs pushing to 150 watts in class B, 110 watts per channel in Class A/B, and 70 watts per channel in Class A in a zero-feedback configuration. Also worth noting, the special edition Jaguar Anthracite finish on the chassis. Fantastic imaging and soundstaging, dynamics to die for, stellar bass punch...and all in all, a gorgeous package. If my notes are correct, not as expensive as one might think. I believe they said $20,000/pair, with the entire system I heard at right around $65,000.

Why it's our favorite Fosgate Signature products, with a new friend. On top right we have the tried and true Fosgate Signature Phono Stage, a tube rollers' delight. On the bottom, the Fozgometer, and the new item is a forthcoming Fosgate Signature Headphone amp slated for debut in just a few months - the anticipated price point is right around $1000...

The more conventional side of the Clearaudio turntable line. Fantastic build quality, superb sonics. Also got a chance to audition a new Benz Micro cart that is at a perfect $600 price point.

The Clearaudio Statement turntable. Sorry it is a bit blurry, but all of the chrome reflections threw off my focus shooting in low-light settings. A serious piece of audio kit, wouldn't want to have to carry it up the stairs, but if you could afford this, you can probably afford someone to carry it for you.

TWO FEET of snow is what I was fortunate to return to; somewhere under that pile is my Mini Cooper S. It's a good thing the antenna was still visible, like a periscope.

In Vegas people were running around in Ugg boots, parkas, hats and scarves when it was in the 50s...this how the rest of us live.

Sights and Sounds of CES - Photo Blog

2011-01-08T00:03:00.016-05:00

The best-sounding room on the 30th floor was the marvelous Estelon speakers. A proprietary marble composite material is paired with some exquisite workmanship to produce magical sounds that both harnesses power and allows for fine detail. Loud, soft, a very well-balanced and natural tone that allows the music to stand first and foremost. Because it is all about the music, not the price, which in this case was around $44,000. Very impressive, especially when paired with the Burmester power amps and equally at home doing the Beatles and Nat King Cole.

Ayon Audio's sound jumped out at me from the hallway - beautiful tube monoblocks powering $90,000 Legacy speakers. Austrian-made tube magic that looks as good as it sounds, which is superb by any standard, with fantastic soundstaging and natural dynamics.

DeVore Fidelity shows off their newest creation, a retro-natural sounding floorstander with a gorgeous furniture quality multi-ply zebrawood facing. And extra points for being one of the few rooms to be spinning a steady diet of vinyl.

Calin Gabriel of Shunyata Research explains the finer points of power purification. Shunyata is one of the few cable companies to back up their claims with research and testing. Attention to detail and matching of wire sizes are but a few ingredients.

Our good friends at the SoundOrg paired the impressive Rega DAC ($995) with Dali speakers. Add an Ipad, an Airport and you have magic. How impressive was the Rega DAC? I texted in my order for one from the room (no room service) and it will arrive when I return to Connecticut.

But only if it stops snowing and they stop serving me free margueritas.

KEF's Q900 sounded stunning. Eight inch woofers? Check. One inch tweeter? Check. A breakthrough at $1595/pair? Checkmate. The best sub-$2000 speaker I've ever heard and performance-wise surprisingly (and maybe a bit scarily) close to the $5000 XQ40s that I live with and love every day. Really a breakthrough at the pricepoint and proof that the "high-end" of audio performance does not necessarily refer to price.

NAIM Audio had some of the most innovative products on display. With a eye towards fine packaging, superb sound, and input and output flexibility and foresight in the design. Part server, part DAC, part amp, the NAIM line makes sense in many, many ways. Plus Jenny from NAIM is exceedingly cool, races motorcycles at Miller Motorsports Park, and is a knowledgeable and passionate IndyCar fan.

Actually while I'm thinking about it, I've definitely noticed a changing of the guard. Gone are the pompous and stuffy shirts of the old guard audiophiles that look down their nose at music and in their place are younger, energetic and passionate music people that allow the enthusiasm to infuse their products.

(more later)

Sights and Sounds of CES - Photo Blog

2011-01-08T00:03:00.003-05:00

The SoundOrg pairs the impressive Rega DAC ($995) with Dali speakers. Add an Ipad, an Airport and you have magic. How impressive was the Rega DAC? I ordered one from the room (no room service) and it will arrive when I get back home. If it stops snowing and they stop serving me free margueritas.

The KEF room - the ungodly power of the Q900 series. Eight inch woofers? Check. One inch tweeter? Check. Ridiculous performance at $1595 per pair. Checkmate. The best sub-$2000 floorstanders I've ever heard and perilously close in performance to the $5000 XQ40s.

Viva Las Vegas - Live from CES and T.H.E. Show

2011-01-07T09:51:00.006-05:00

Okay - this is how it all happened.

Woke up Tuesday morning to hear the unmistakable sound of Nikita (my dog) heaving and getting ready to urp, urr, throw up, as dogs do from time-to-time. Right next to my pillow. Thanks, Nikita. Two heaves wasn't enough warning for the ENTIRE BREAKFAST to land there.

I had been considering going to Vegas to the CES and T.H.E. Show for about a month, with usual concerns about time, travel time, cost, etc. After the cleanup, I went to @PuretoneAudio headquarters and checked the weather forecast - hmmm, northwest Connecticut, snow Friday and Saturday. Okay, another sign.

Checked the available travel packages, and finally some flights popped up that didn't involve spending 18 hours each way in airports...the audio gods were conspiring. They were clearly saying, "yes, son, by all means come to Vegas and hear new gear!"

So as I am wont to do, I booked the trip for Thursday...audio gear, Las Vegas, getting out of Dodge for a few days (I've been carefully compiling Western references and cliches to use). Fly across the country on two days notice, meet with my fine reps from Rega (Steve and Adam), Cayin Audio USA (Steve), KEF (Steph and Brian), and Musical Surroundings (Steve) as well as some (*apparently every other person in the audio industry is named Steve).

Hang out with my good buddy and gear guru Jeff Dorgay from ToneAudio magazine.

Eat, drink, be merry. Maybe even put a few dollars down against the Jets.

So Thursday morning I set out for Bradley Airport to begin a hellish journey courtesy of American Airlines.

Three words of advice - don't fly American. Ever. Even if they become the last airline in the country through cross-mergification.

It's been a few years since I was a regular weekly traveler but I can't even begin to tell you how lousy this airline has become. I always thought Southwest and US Air were the undisputed kings of the cattle car journey, but they have been surpassed. CT to Dallas part of the trip was smooth on a completely jam-packed plane. Not another ounce of luggage could possibly have been stowed.

Problem #1 - seats the size of a child carseat. I'm 6'3 and 200 lbs. My shoulders are about eight inches wider than the seats. Yogic contortions follow. Keep the elbows tucked. Keep the shoulders tucked. Don't mind the fact that my head is eight inches over the headrest. Don't mind the fact that my seat is pitched forward at a 15 degree angle, it's good for the abs.

Arrive in Dallas-Fort Worth, DFW, the airport made famous in song by Stevie Ray Vaughan. Stretch. Pray that circulation resumes in all appendages. Take the tram halfway across Texas to the other American terminal to find that I could have easily made an earlier flight to Las Vegas. Asked at the desk, received a look like I had just asked for the clerk's personal ATM PIN numbers; "no, sir, every seat is booked on this flight"...okay thanks, American.

Sit back to wait another two hours for the next flight. Shop at the Dallas Cowboys team store, conveniently across from my gate. Alas, no red-headed Jesus icons or garden statues available. Yet.

Return to gate desk. Ask if there is any possible way I can bribe someone to get out of the dreaded E (middle of three) row seat that was staring at me from my boarding pass. Of course not "no, sir, every seat is booked on this flight"...okay thanks again, American. We now know the first phrase taught in American Airlines' customer service training sessions.

Finally board the plane at 6:00 PM central time. I had a cinnamon pretzel at the airport, which was my first food since 11:45 AM at BDL. Will there be any snacks or food served, since we are flying right at dinner time?

Notafuc$$*$(#chance.

But I can buy half a chicken sandwich on a kaiser roll for $10.00, credit or debit card only. Or a stack of Lay's chips for $5.00.

Uhhh. No thanks again, American.

THEN the captain makes an announcement "our primary ______ (airflight control?) system is down, we will be flying on backup. Our protocol is for the co-pilot to go back into the cabin and check the function prior to takeoff."

A collective groan erupted from the sardines packed into the aluminum tube at the mere thought of being unpacked and repacked.

At American, apparently they have only the best, the oldest and most archaic planes in the sky. THEN the co-pilot walks back down the aisle WITH A FLASHLIGHT and shines it out of the porthole window on the wings on each side.

Not exactly confidence inspiring. AT ALL.

Finally we take off into the night sky. It got dark in about 10 minutes in Dallas. The Flatlanders song "Dallas" pops into my head. And yes, the plane we are flying was probably the equivalent of a DC-9.

Hell, I have no doubt American would still be flying Lockheed Super Constellations if the FAA would let em.

Vegas bound.

West-Texas-Waltzing over the panhandle in the night sky. Not many lights down there. Or is is thar?

(to be continued...)

The Q300s Have Arrived

2010-12-21T18:34:00.006-05:00

The first pair of pairs (see what I did there?) of the KEF Q300 have arrived. Black ash and English cherry are now in stock!

New look, new engineering (simple first order crossver), new technology (new 6.5 inch UNI-Q driver with vented one-inch tweeter, gold-plated terminals) and ridiculously EXCELLENT value at just $599/pair. Still breaking our demo pair but I'd say that these compare favorably with the store-favorite XQ series at less than one-third the price of the XQ20.

Perfect set of speakers for a second system, bedroom or office. Heck if they sound this good in our big, boxy store, I can only imagine how great they would charge up a proper-sized room. In fact, I might have to take them home over the holiday weekend and try them in my home studio.

Lots of NEW ITEMS for the Xmas Season!!!

2010-12-08T10:18:00.004-05:00

It's been a while since we posted some updates, so let us do a little roundup of new goodies while waiting for everyone to complete and submit their 2010 Top-10 music lists (yeah, I'm having some problems with that myself, since about half of what I've been listening to came out 30 years ago...)

First off we have the Rega RP1 turntable, at just $445 (and now in cool grey, titanium silver, and white white), the RP1 has substantially raised the bar on entry level turntables. Even beyond that, the performance is much, much closer to the thousand dollar P3-24 than anyone might expect:

Designed and engineered to achieve outstanding performance way beyond the expectations of a product at this price point.

Excellent build quality, reliability and ease of use combine to make a product which will offer a lifetime of musical enjoyment. Omitting all the usual gimmicks allows us to concentrate the manufacturing costs on the high quality parts necessary to reproduce records accurately.

Using a manual speed change rather than an automatic mechanism, eliminates speed inconsistencies and reduces wear of the drive belt. The money we save is spent across the design including a new hand assembled RB101 tonearm, precision main bearing, phenolic resin platter and a high quality low vibration motor which would normally be used on a turntable costing two or three times the amount.

The minimalist design of the Rega RP1 and the use of extremely high quality components ensure that this turntable will last for many years. The RP1 is the first in a new generation of Rega turntables offering far greater performance than their predecessors.

We are confident the performance of this amazing new product will impress you. Rest assured the only thing entry level about the RP1 is the price !

The all new completely British-made RP1 features:

- Brand new Rega RB101 tonearm.
- Precision main bearing and sub-platter assembly.
- High quailty low vibration motor.
- All new Phenolic resin flywheel effect platter for excellent speed stability.
- Factory-mounted Ortofon OM5e moving magnet cartridge.
- Rega sound quality at an unrivalled price.

(from Tone Audio Magazine)

"Rega has always been known for producing great value with a minimalist approach, but the new RP1 is a legitimate high-end turntable at a budget price."

"The only way you can get a more effortless analog setup is to have someone else do it for you and how much fun would that be? You will be amazed at how good the RP1 is"

Also available is an all-in-one Rega Turntable Upgrade package for the RP1 (@$195) which bundles together the stellar Rega Bias2 cartridge, a plush wool turntable mat, the accessory Rega belt upgrade and a spacer shim for perfect setup. Cool upgrades, low price. And if you buy it in person, we'll install and balance the cartridge for free. How great is that?

We also have in a black ash pair of Rega RS5 speakers which have a low, low price as the line is undergoing some cosmetic tweaking...

On the KEF side, we still have a full compliment of the gorgeous XQ series (20, 30 and 40) set up for audition. Marketing tzarina Stephanie at KEF has promised her Top-10 list at any moment, and our first look at the Q series - the Q900 - are expected to arrive imminently. At $1598/pair they promise to fuse technology, aesthetics and silky sweet sound with extended bass response at a can't-be-beaten-even-by-Tom-Brady-price. Woohoo!

On the Cayin Audio side, there is always lots of excitement over the astounding A50T tube amp; while we also have a A88T with nuclear-tipped (no, just kidding) KT88 tubes for warmth of both sound and room. For those who desire a bit more power and control on the bottom end (and who doesn't) we also have the hybrid H80a which combines the strength and signal response of a Mosfet power stage with the sweetness of a tube pre-amp circuit. For the computerphile, the Cayin iDAC is still a solid performer, with the flexibility of two distinct DAC chips combined with tube warmth and detail.

Uhhh, okay, it's almost tea time...there's also the usual assortment of CDs, SACDs, DVDs and an exponentially-increasing selection of vinyl which threatens to overrun the whole store. Analog is back in a BIG way, it's kind of fun to see the bemused and confused expressions when I tell them that VINYL is now outselling CDs almost 4 to 1 for us...

That's it for now, as usual, call if you have any questions or if you want to special order a pair of KEF Muons for that special someone in your life. We can probably even arrange for one of those stupid red bows omnipresent in every car commercial during the "most special joyous event time" of the season.

Unparalleled Price and Performance: the New Q Series Speakers from KEF

2010-09-15T14:45:00.005-04:00

Not content to rest on their laurels (and exactly who "rests on laurels" these days?) KEF has introduced the spectacular new Q series of speakers, and infused the entire line with the DNA of the ultramodern, ultrasexy, ultrahitech KEF Concept Blade that has been slaying all comers at audio shows around the world.

Designed from the ground up in KEF's Bondian top secret Maidstone, Kent UK R&D labs (yes, they actually still do their own R&D work), the Q series is set to revolutionize the price to performance ratio. New speakers doesn't just equal a new set of drivers stuffed into the same old cabs; the new Q also features new enclosures, new enviromentally-friendly wood veneers, new terminals, and 30% better bass response, while maintaining their glorious attention to detail and performance.

New Drivers! These speakers feature a brand new Uni-Q driver with a brand new 1” vented aluminium dome tweeter used on Concept Blade. The magnet / voice coil on this driver is MASSIVE – almost double the size of the current iQ Series, very weighty. The best part is watching it as you pump some killer tunes through ‘em – they feature what we call a Z-Flex surround which allows for the extreme excursions needed to deliver a truly visceral thump while maintaining smooth high frequency performance. You see it – this will be THE coolest demo you could do. The driver cone literally pumps in and out of the unit itself and looks ridiculously impressive. KEF also designed a brand new bi-wireable gold plated terminal and instead of using jumpers they fitted an ingenious screw system for easy setup. Off-axis dispersion is unrivalled, so everyone in the room enjoys the same exceptionally realistic sonic imaging, wherever they sit.

Wow, hyperbole aside, I can't wait to hear them myself!

The flagship Q 900 is expected to be ready for retail in late ROctober or November. At the low price of $799 per speaker (that's $1598/pair) the performance is said to soundly thrash all rivals, even those costing twice as much.

The price points are mindblowing (MSRP price per speaker):

Floorstander
Q900 - $799
Q700 - $699
Q500 - $499

Bookshelves
Q300 - $599/pair
Q100 - $499/pair

+ an assortment of center channel, dipole and subwoofer...

If you need you fix of KEF's glorious balanced and articulate sound now, just swing in and check out the full line of the XQ (20, 30, 40, 50c) series at Puretone Audio.

But don't say we didn't warn you; you'll be chopping up your old speakers for firewood (or better yet offing them on Ebay).

For more info, give us a call. Or visit. Or just send us your ears in a FedEx box, don't worry, we'll return them!

New Analogue Productions SACD Arrivals List

2010-06-03T12:56:00.006-04:00

A TON OF NEW SACD-XRCD-24K CD TITLES!!!* and MORE on the way!!!

All DISCS ARE BRAND NEW/FACTORY SEALED/MINT

SACDs (Mostly Analogue Productions, but some others mixed in!)

Cannonball Adderly – Somethin' Else $30 Analogue Productions – check this lineup – Cannonball, Miles, Hank Jones, Sam Jones and Art Blakey. Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman breathe new life into this all-time classic
Cannonball Adderly with Bill Evans - Know What I Mean? $25 Analogue Productions In a remarkable display of their musical range and sensitivity, the buoyant alto sax of Adderley and introspective piano of Evans move effortlessly toward a middle ground that shows both to great advantage. Recorded in 1961, the sound quality of these master tapes is breathtaking: a real audiophile dream disc! Featuring Percy Heath on bass and Connie Kay on drums. Mastered by Doug Sax.

Allman Brothers - At Fillmore East*$25 Mercury Hybrid 2 SACD set - Okay we can all argue, but for me the SACD is the DEFINITIVE VERSION - particularly lifelike in the mix is Berry Oakley's bass - you can hear speaker flap on the stage! Includes SACD Stereo, Surround Sound and CD Audio mixes
Allman Brothers - Eat a Peach*$19 Mercury Hybrid SACD Includes SACD Stereo, Surround Sound and CD Audio mixes

Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers - Moanin'*$30 Analogue Productions - Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman mastering prowess make this the DEFINITIVE edition of this classic title.*

John Coltrane - Blue Train*Analogue Productions $30 (Kevin Gray/Steve Hoffman mastered) The DEFINITIVE version of this classic. I can never keep it in stock for more than a day or two!

John Coltrane - COLTRANE Analogue Productions $30 First out of the gate in APO's new Impulse SACD series Recorded over the course of three months in 1962, Coltrane was John Coltrane's third album for Impulse, but his first for the label devoted entirely to his regular working group. It was also the first album on any label to showcase what came to be known as the classic John Coltrane Quartet. That group – with McCoy Tyner on piano, Jimmy Garrison on bass and Elvin Jones on drums – established itself in its four years of existence as one of the most influential ensembles in jazz. (Kevin Gray mastered) (3 in stock)
John Coltrane - Lush Life*Prestige Hybrid SACD $18 Sealed
John Coltrane - A Love Supreme*$16 Impulse/Universal SACD-only pressing Sealed

Sam Cooke – Night Beat $30 Analogue Productions Clearly Sam Cooke’s most intimate, most soulful and ultimately most real recording. This one has the feel of a private performance captured after hours when the audience had gone home and the singer was singing purely for the love of his songs. The performance put forth is simply straight from Cooke’s soul. His selection of songs include spiritual, bluesy ballads and gospel classics. Cooke owns these songs, making each interpretation all his own. This is warm music that’s easy to connect with. Mastered by George Marino at Sterling Sound from the original three-track masters. The SACD includes all three channels!

Lou Donaldson – Blues Walk (stereo) $30 *Lou Donaldson's undisputed masterpiece,*Blues Walk, marks the point where the altoist began to decisively modify his heavy Charlie Parker influence and add a smoky, bluesy flavor of his own. The material is still firmly in the bebop style, and the mellower moments aren't as sleepy as some of Donaldson's subsequent work, so the album sounds vital and distinctive, even more so with superb mastering job of Hoffman and Gray.
Lou Donaldson – Here 'Tis $30 Analogue Productions A dedicated disciple of Charlie Parker, alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson focused his energies on the bluesier aspects of his hero's playing and rendered it with a sweeter edge that fashioned him a viable career for decades. His work for Blue Note showed his impressive mastery of the bop style. Recorded in 1961 the lineup is Dave Bailey, drums; Lou Donaldson, sax (alto); Grant Green, guitar and Baby Face Willette, organ Gray and Hoffman remastering make this essential!

Kenny Dorham – Whistle Stop $30 Analogue Productions Rightfully considered one of Kenny Dorham's best, this album features great originals and great trumpet playing. The superb cast consists of Hank Mobley, Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones. The title tune and "Philly Twist" are often heard, but the entire album represents a great compositional achievement* Hoffman and Gray once again handle the remastering honors.

Gil Evans - OUT OF THE COOL $30 Analogue Productions Impulse SACD series "...Out of the Cool, perhaps even more than his collaborations with Miles Davis, spotlights Gil Evans' brilliance as a writer and arranger...The results are lovely, sometimes cerebral jazz meditations, and the soundstage is expansive, with soloists firmly rooted within; the musicians unfurl ribbons of fabulously layered tone colors, and the recording captures the orchestra's terrific dynamic range." - Wayne Garcia, The Absolute Sound, June/July 2009
Mastered by Kevin Gray. (2 in stock)

Dexter Gordon - Dexter Calling*$30 Analogue Productions Gordon's second Blue Noth album from 1961 with an amazing lineup of Paul Chambers, Philly Joe Jones and Kenny Drew on piano. Kevin Gray/Steve Hoffman mastered (2 in stock)
Dexter Gordon – Go*$30 Analogue Productions Gordon's fourth Blue Note album from 1962 – with Sonny Clark, Butch Warren and Billy Higgins – Gray and Hoffman mastered!

Grant Green – Idle Moments $30 Analogue Productions - Unique in Green's discography for its relaxed, lengthy performances and almost dream-like lyricism, this Blue Note classic could well be called*Ballads for the Ages. Hoffman and Gray mastering make it you in the studio, 1963.
Grant Green – Green Street $30 Analogue Productions Green Street, recorded on April 1, 1961, was Grant Green's second Blue Note album as a leader and remains one of the finest albums of his prolific Blue Note output. Supported by just Ben Tucker's bass and Dave Bailey's drums, the guitarist seems inspired by the absence of any other chordal instrument. Hoffman and Gray man the board.

Peter Green Tribute - Man of the World*$18 (Hoffman mastered - Great disc! includes Rory Gallagher, Ian Anderson, Lonesome Dave Peverett from Foghat) M/M

Joe Henderson – Page One $30 Analogue Productions Page One*introduced the jazz world to the unusually mature and original young tenor saxophonist, Joe Henderson. "Recorda Me" and "Blue Bossa" have become jazz classics for their mix of Brazilian rhythms with Hard Bop muscle.* (Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman mastering)

Humble Pie – Smokin' $30 Analogue Productions – I've just finished playing this through three times in a row. Possibly the best rock SACD in terms of soundstaging and dynamics. Clem Clemson's stellar Les Paul guitarwork ignites a barrage of soulful struttin' from Steve Marriott. And thick, thick bass...really amazing presence

Fred Jackson - Hootin N Tootin $30 Analogue Productions In Hootin' 'N Tootin', the listener is afforded the opportunity of hearing numbers of a famous orchestra noted for its smart arrangements along the rhythm and blues influence. The moods expressed are in the "down home" and "down to Earth" groove. Under the leadership of Fred Jackson, tenor sax, the listener is propelled into the world of the new truth. Hoffman & Gray piloted the remastering session.

Jackie McLean - Jackie's Bag $30 Analogue Productions In terms of composition, leadership and playing, this is probably Jackie McLean's greatest album, culled from two different sessions, separated by 20 months. A sextet session with Tina Brooks and Blue Mitchell.
An amazing lineup: Tina Brooks, sax (tenor), Donald Byrd, trumpet, Paul Chambers, bass, Sonny Clark, piano, Kenny Drew, piano, Philly Joe Jones, drums, Jackie McLean, sax (alto), Billy Mitchell, sax (tenor), Blue Mitchell, trumpet, Art Taylor, drums Gray-Hoffman man the board (3 in stock)
Jackie McLean – Capuchin Swing $30 Analogue Productions This is pure exceptional hard bop by Jackie McLean with Blue Mitchell, Walter Bishop, Jr., Paul Chambers and Art Taylor with all the wonderful elements of any classic Blue Note album: memorable compositions, strong solos and great feeling. But*Capuchin Swing*also finds the great alto saxophonist looking toward new frontiers with the harmonically edgy "Francisco." Hoffman/Gray remastering.

Charles Mingus - MINGUS MINGUS MINGUS $30 Analogue Productions Impulse Series. Produced by Impulse! A&R director Bob Thiele in 1963, this recording is a major showcase of the talented Charles Mingus as a bassist, pianist and writer. In his 1963 original liner notes, critic-at-large Nat Hentoff said that of all the musicians, it is impossible to remain indifferent to Mingus. This recording more than any other testifies to Hentoff's claim. More so today than in 60's, there is truly only one Mingus, Mingus, Mingus, Mingus, Mingus.
Originally released in 1963. Mastered by Kevin Gray. (3 in stock)

Hank Mobley - A Caddy for Daddy $30 Analogue Productions Hank Mobley was a perfect artist for Blue Note in the 1960s. On this LP, which is a straight reissue of the 1965 session, Mobley is joined by trumpeter Lee Morgan, trombonist Curtis Fuller, pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Bob Cranshaw and drummer Billy Higgins (a typically remarkable Blue Note lineup) for the infectious title cut, three other lesser-known but superior originals, plus Wayne Shorter's "Venus Di Mildew."

Lee Morgan – Leeway $30 Analogue Productions another all-time classic from Blue Note 1960 Morgan teams up with Jackie McLean, Bobby Timmons, Paul Chambers and Art Blakey with Hoffman/Gray at the production helm. Steve Hoffman said this is the first time the actual mis-labeled master tapes were ever used on this mastering (see thread)

John Patton – Along Came John $30 Analogue Productions John Patton, Grant Green and Ben Dixon were introduced to Blue Note by Lou Donaldson and quickly became the quintessential rhythm section for Blue Note's funkier session. They came together for this, John Patton's first album, with two of the label's tenor saxophonists Fred Jackson and Harold Vick. The double tenors and organ trio make an unbeatable combination for some soulful, swinging music from 1963. Gray/Hoffman mastering make this the quintessential version*

Ike Quebec - It Might As Well Be Spring $30 Analogue Productions Two weeks after Ike Quebec recorded his comeback album Heavy Soul for Blue Note, he was back at the Van Gelder Studio with the same band (Freddie Roach, Milt Hinton and Al Harewood), making a second album. The confidence paid off because It Might As Well Be Spring is every bit the classic the first album proved to be. Quebec's big-toned, vulnerable tenor playing is a thing to behold, as his heart-stopping version of the title tune, "Lover Man" and "Willow Weep For Me" attest. "Easy – Don't Hurt" is one of his blues masterpieces.
Ike Quebec – Soul Samba Bossa Nova $30 Analogue Productions Quebec's take on the bossa nova craze that explored that year (1962) is more muscular than Stan Getz's and doesn't rely on the familiar Jobim and Gilberto songs of the day. He and Kenny Burrell solo on the sly, subtle rhythms of Wendell Marshall, Willie Bobo and Garvin Masseaux.Steve Hoffman and Kevin Gray pilot the remastering session*

Sonny Rollins - Saxophone Colossus*$25 Analogue Productions with classic lineup of Doug Watkins, Max Roach and Tommy Flanagan
Sonny Rollins - The Sound of Sonny*$18 Prestige Hybrid SACD with one bonus track, also features my favorite bass player Paul Chambers on three cuts
Sonny Rollins - Tenor Madness*$18 Prestige Hybrid SACD Red Garland, John Coltrane, Paul Chambers, Philly Joe Jones - 'nuff said!
Sonny Rollins - Way Out West $25 Analogue Productions SACD Mastered off the original two-track tape recorded with a tube AKG-C12 microphone on a tube Ampex 350 machine. Features Ray Brown on bass and Shelly Manne on drums. Over his long and distinguished career, Sonny Rollins has made many dozens of albums. Among those recorded during the fifties, Prestige's Movin' Out and Colossus, Blue Note's A Night at the Village Vanguard, Riverside's The Sound of Sonny, and Way Out West on Contemporary qualify as all-time Rollins classics.

Horace Silver - Tokyo Blues $30 Analogue Productions SACD Tokyo Blues, a quintessential mid-'60s Blue Note session, is Horace Silver's tribute to the Japanese people who have long supported his funky, Latin-flavored modern jazz. American jazz has always been wildly popular in Japan, and this album is Silver's homage to the many fans that he has encountered on various triumphant tours of the island nation. While Silver's trademark funky Latin/swing is at the forefront, the inspiration of eastern delights is clearly evident in all aspects of this grooving date.

The 3 Sounds - Bottoms Up $30 Analogue Productions - The Three Sounds were part of the trio explosion. Begun in 1956 in Benton Harbor, Michigan as the Four Sounds and consisting of Gene Harris on piano, Andrew Simpkins on bass and Bill Dowdy on drums (the saxophonist was dropped by the time the group moved to Washington, D.C. in 1957), the Sounds eventually migrated to New York City where they were "discovered" by Lou Donaldson. After a single record for Riverside with Nat Adderley, the Three Sounds signed an exclusive contract with Alfred Lion on Blue Note Records. Over the course of five years, the Sounds released nine LPs and appeared on albums by Lou Donaldson and Stanley Turrentine. Hoffman/Gray mastering.

Ben Webster - See You At the Fair $30 Analogue Productions Impulse Series Ben Webster's final American recording was one of his greatest. At 55, the tenor saxophonist was still very much in his prime but considered out of style in the U.S. He would soon permanently move to Europe where he was better appreciated. Webster's tone has rarely sounded more beautiful than on "Someone To Watch Over Me" and "Our Love Is Here To Stay." Mastered by Kevin Gray.

Junior Wells - Come On in this House*Telarc Hybrid SACD - getting hard to find $18
Junior Wells - Hoodoo Man Blues $30 Analogue Productions SACD One of the all-time great urban blues records and the best-seller in the famed Delmark catalog. Hoodoo Man Blues is so full of bravado and snap it'll make you feel tough just listening to it. Not all of the Delmark titles were recorded very well, but this one certainly was. Hoodoo Man Blues, which features Buddy Guy on guitar, is not only Junior Wells' first LP appearance, it's damn near the first LP by a Chicago blues band. Chess and a few other labels had reissued 45s by Muddy Waters, Sonny Boy Williamson, Howlin' Wolf, Jimmy Reed, Elmore James, etc., but virtually no one had tried to capture the Chicago blues sound free of the limitations of juke box/airplay promotion. Hoodoo Man Blues went a long way in the popularization of real Chicago blues and of Junior Wells. Kevin Gray manned the board for this SACD mastering.

The Zombies - Greatest Hits*$18 Audio Fidelity Hybrid SACD - awesome - makes me wish Steve did the Zombies box set in this glorious sound – fantastic soundstaging and amazing imaging makes you feel like you are standing right behind the mixing desk.

*AUDIO WAVE XRCDs - finally restocked! Compatible with ALL CD players - extended resolution and 24 bit mastering

"I recommend these highly...They can't stay in print forever so don't delay!" - Steve Hoffman, mastering engineer and notorious Blue Note afficionado

Tina Brooks - True Blue $29 Audio Wave XRCD - Fantastic packaging foldout digibook edition from Joe Harley and company with Alan Yoshida mastering

Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin' $29 Audio Wave XRCD - Detailed packaging and a classic lineup of Art Farmer, Jackie McLean, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones. Going to listen to my own copy of this later tonight...

Hank Mobley - Soul Station $29 Audio Wave XRCD - Bound digibook packaging with extensive liner notes, Alan Yoshida mastering and another classic Blue Note lineup - this time Art Blakey, Wynton Kelly and Paul Chambers. Looking forward to hearing this one as well!

Horace Parlan - Speakin' My Piece $29 Audio Wave XRCD - Speakin' My Piece was Parlan's first album with horns, teaming his trio with the Turrentine Brothers. The music that the group plays, catchy originals including Parlan's most famous composition, "Wadin," is swinging and sophisticated but also bluesy, greasy and overflowing with soul. Speakin' My Piece, which has superb sound, is essential.

Audio Fidelity Gold Discs (all BRAND NEW and sealed!!!)

Doors - Soft Parade*$24 (Steve Mastered) HDCD encoded

John Mayall - Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton*$24 HDCD encoded MONO for maximum Clapton guitar godhead!!! M/M

Lynyrd Skynyrd - Second Helping*$24 (Kevin Gray Mastered) HDCD encoded M/M

Montrose - Montrose*$20 HDCD encoded Audio Fidelity GOLD for maximum Ronnie Montrose 1959 Les Paul-into-a-Marshall guitar godhead!!! Getting to be a tough title, I'm not sure if the supply is drying up on this one...

Rod Stewart - Never a Dull Moment $24 Before he became part of the world of blonde-spiked hair and colorful jumpsuits, Rod Stewart created a handful of magnificent records using an eclectic mix of rock, British folk, soul, blues and country, including his fourth album, 1972's Never A Dull Moment. It is Stewart's hardest-rocking album up to this point - he was at the top of his form singing from his soul and not his image. This recording stands aside Every Picture Tells A Story as the twin-peak achievements of his career. It is a stunning collection containing his trademark acoustic-electric mix of instruments and bluesy vocals - lots of mandolin, acoustic guitar, slide and slightly fuzzy leads courtesy of Ron Wood.

DCC Gold
Miles Davis - Miles Davis and Milt Jackson All-Stars Quintets/Sextets*M/M GZS-1113 OOP*
(Steve Hoffman mastered) $50 (price reduction!)

Shipping -

US/Canada -*FREE*!

Europe/South America - $5 first CD/$2 each extra in same order (First Class Airmail)

Japan/Australia/Asia - $5 first CD/$2 each extra CD (First Class Airmail)*

or email direct: karl@puretoneaudio.com

Coming (Very) Soon - the Fosgate Signature Phono Stage

2010-03-02T20:41:00.004-05:00

Direct from the mind and workbench of world-renowned audio designer Jim Fosgate -
most famous for his work on surround sound (Dolby Pro-Logic II, etc.) and car audio (Rockford-Fosgate car stereo) - comes the new Fosgate Signature Phono Stage.

Jim listens to tubes and vinyl in his personal system. His passion for analog and tube sound has lead to the development of the Fosgate Signature phono preamp.

Over the past 30 years, Jim Fosgate built and tested more than 100 different designs before settling on the one that became the Fosgate Signature. This design features all tube amplification and rectification with no solid-state devices in the signal path, switchable moving magnet (42.5 dB)/moving coil (60.5 dB) gain setting and variable loading settings from 100 to 100K ohms.

The industrial design of the Fosgate Signature is clean and modern, using blue LED illumination for the tubes, yet also retro, proudly displaying its 7 tubes (with no cage) and real wood end caps.

The Fosgate Signature is a warm, detailed, inviting phono pre-amplifier with great extension at both frequency extremes. It is an extraordinary imager, with depth and width comparable to units at much higher price points.

The Fosgate Signature is also an exceptional value at its retail price of $2,500.

Check out the fantastic review from our friend Randy Wells in issue 22 of ToneAudio magazine (page 106) (although I always seem to take a long detour through the Aston Martin DBS review on page 76)

Rega CD Clunker Program Extended!!

2009-12-29T20:47:00.002-05:00

Just received word from Rega US HQ and it is good news:

"It seems we have struck a chord with music lovers and audio enthusiasts alike. With this success, and as we near the end of the program, many of you have asked for us to extend the program.

So ... we have decided to do just that!

Starting Jan. 1, we'll be extending the program through the first quarter of 2010! All the terms and conditions will remain the same. The new ending date is now March 31, 2010. So those customers that have been trying to save up in time to beat the Dec. 31st deadline now can take a deep breath and know they have enough time to get that Rega CD player they have wanted so much."

So dig out that old player come down to Puretone Audio for a Rega CD player audition - we have both the Apollo and Saturn in stock now!

Puretone Audio Joins Rega Cash for CD Clunkers Program

2009-10-08T20:21:00.007-04:00

LITCHFIELD, Conn. _ If you have been waiting for the right time to pick up the highly-rated Rega Saturn or Rega Apollo CD player, now is the time to act.

And you don't have to give us your car to get it.

For a limited time, Rega's stateside distributor The Sound Organisation and Puretone Audio have teamed up for the innovative Rega Ca$h for CD Clunkers program.

Just carry, cart or tow in that old digital clunker of a CD player and get a spanking new Rega player at a VERY special price - the superlative Rega Saturn ($2395 list price) will be priced at 25% off - just $1795, while Rega's category killer Apollo CD player ($995 list) will now be reduced 15% to $845. Both black and silver finishes will be available, but (in best Billy Mays voice) YOU MUST ACT NOW!

StereoTimes said

The Saturn excels in replicating the interweaving of music lines, the correct timing of the entrance of instruments, and the sudden and often unexpected inspiration of the players in the process of making music. You sense that inner communication of the players that makes listening to good music such an exciting adventure and such a satisfying experience. With the Saturn you always catch the band on a good night.

In the sub-$1000 CD player market, the Rega Apollo has reigned supreme since it's introduction. Stereophile's Art Dudley said:

From day one, the Apollo endeared itself to me—no other word for it—by cheaply doing well a great many things I consider crucial to music playback. Its rhythmic performance was strong—no surprise there, given that none of the Rega products I've heard have made music sound sluggish or unengaging—and its frequency range was well extended in both directions, with good balance between its strong bass registers and crisp, open-sounding trebles....

But it was the cleanness of the Apollo's sound that most impressed me that first day. In that sense, the Apollo was audibly, obviously different from most other players...

The Rega had an unambiguously lower noise floor. Through the Apollo, there was more emptiness between the notes—spaces had been filled with texture through the Sony, which I'd never noticed before. Consequently (or so it seemed), listening to the music was now easier: The tension that belonged in the music was still there, but the stress of listening to it was gone.

As we already mentioned, the Rega Cash for CD Clunkers Trade-In Program won't last long - until December 31st.

So call or email Puretone Audio today and drive on out with something better than gas mileage - a sweet sounding Rega CD player.

Ross Halfin Shoots Mott; Mott Lives!

2009-10-05T23:50:00.005-04:00

Really enjoying the heck out of genius/photographer Ross Halfin's blog...some fantastic photos from the seven-show Mott the Hoople reunion show up there now! Looks like a smashing time, although Mick Ralphs might have raided the Tommy Bahama wardrobe one too many times.

And check out sometime Pretenders/Mott pinch drummer Martin Chambers, looking a bit like a young Ginger Baker. If you've missed the shows, like I have, there is always the opportunity to buy the simulcasts there.

All the not-quite-so-Young Dudes were in attendance, I suppose I will have to wait and see if I run into Mott mainman Ian Hunter at the Big Y in New Milford anytime soon. That's where the back cover of his latest album, Man Overboard, was shot, believe it or not. It's fantastic release on New West Records, well worth picking up.

TAS Agrees - We Carry the Best

2009-08-18T21:32:00.006-04:00

Okay, @ Puretone Audio we have been getting emails and calls (sometimes the music is cranked and we can't hear the phone ringing - sorry!) from people asking why we carry certain manufacturers and if brand K's speaker line is really better than brand, oh say, BW.

It's fairly simple, as a small dedicated audio store we only sell products that we believe in and can recommend without hesitation - gear that is better than anything else we have heard at that specific price point. Our store is personal enough that we can focus on "the good stuff" and not worry about covering a ridiculous overhead and frappacino-chugging employees who won't look up until you are stacking blocks of cash on the counter.

Now carrying a product that "sells itself" may not be a common business practice in an audio marketplace in which dealer margins and purchasing deals dictate what a store pushes (and I do mean pushes) as "product du jour", but it DOES allow us to have total confidence that your system and components will do the ultimate goal - to make you LISTEN TO MORE MUSIC.

But back to the original point - we have made converts out of a few people that came in and heard KEF's XQ-20 speakers, for example, and said "my (multi-billion dollar that takes more time to power up than the Space Shuttle) system doesn't sound anywhere near that good".

Well that system does now, and again, the goal is to enjoy your collection. Apparently Robert Harley and the fine folks at The Absolute Sound magazine agree with us, as a good number of items we carry have been prominently featured in the 2009 Editor's Choice issue.

Here's the rundown with brief review snippets - for the full story, please pick up Issue 195 of The Absolute Sound (forgive me if I skip over anything, it's about 110 degrees in my computer room right now!). Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) is in ($____)

Loudspeakers ($1500-$2000)

KEF XQ20 ($1999) "a remarkably open and focused sound with stunning 3D imaging that remains convincing even when you sit off-axis" (Playback issue 20)

Integrated Amplifiers (under $1000)

Rega Brio 3 ($699) "a very good sounding well-built little amp at a fair price...the inclusion of a real phonostage is a nice touch. (Issue 167)

Integrated Amplifiers ($2000-$3000)

Cayin Audio A 88T ($2395/$2495 depending on choice of 6550 or KT-88 tubes) "this hand-built honey boasts a fit and finish that would do McIntosh proud...a sound that is sweet and seductive, yet also vibrant and dynamic" (review forthcoming)

Digital Sources (under $1000)

Rega Apollo ($995) "the finest sub-$1000 CD player that CM has heard...a richly textured sound that spans the entire audio spectrum" (Issue 186)

Turntables and Record Players Under $1000

Rega P1 ($395) "what you get is the pace, musical interplay, and involvement that makes analog special" (Issue 171)

Rega P3-24 ($895) "a greater dynamic range, a more convincing sense of air and space, a lower noise floor, richer tonality and improved bass...for an extra $375 one may add the TTPSU power supply which takes the performance to a significantly higher level" (Issue 191)

Turntables and Record Players $1000-$2000

Rega P5 ($1395) "When paired with Rega's Exact 2 phono cartridge, this 'table produced a highly musical sound that JH preferred to most digital players regardless of price" (Issue 180)

Tonearms Under $2000

Rega RB301 ($495) "musically compelling with excellent balance and good detail" (Issue 127)

Interconnects, Speaker Cables and Power Cords

Rega Couple Interconnect ($195) "fine resolution of textures yet without exaggerated transients or edginess" (AVguide.com)

Headphones and Headphone Amps

Cayin HA-1A Head Amp ($875) "An exercise in unalloyed hedonism, the sexy Cayin is actually a vacuum tube integrated amp..." (Issue 178)

Come on in and hear for yourself!

Disclaimer: No Relation to Purtone Speakers!

2009-08-17T23:09:00.004-04:00

We have been getting a number of calls lately for some company called Purtone Speakers.

We are no relation to this company and have no idea if their speakers are any good.

At Puretone Audio LLC in Litchfield, Connecticut, we only sell the highest quality products from Rega Research Limited, Cayin USA, KEF, Musical Fidelity and VAS Industries and are authorized dealers of these brands.

We pride ourselves on high quality, audiophile-grade products that offer superior two-channel stereo sound reproduction at obtainable, attainable prices. We offer friendly, knowledgeable advice on building the stereo system of your dreams.

Believe Your Ears! (tm)

Puretone Audio
367 Bantam Road
Litchfield, CT 06759

860.361.9495

Playing Broken Records???

2009-06-23T08:48:00.002-04:00

Interesting article on record preservation efforts at the Library of Congress from the NPR site...

Morning Edition, July 16, 2007 · At the Library of Congress, in a small, white room with bright red carpet, physicist Carl Haber sits down to play a record from 1930. It's a recording of Gilbert and Sullivan's "Iolanthe." But here's the strange thing: This record is broken.

"It looks like somebody just got hungry and took a bite out of it," says Haber. He has positioned the record on a turntable and fitted the broken piece back into place, like it's a jigsaw puzzle. "If we spun this thing fast, the piece would come flying off, you know, and maybe hit somebody," he says.

But this turntable doesn't spin like a normal record player. And there's no needle hovering over the record. Instead, there's a camera linked to a computer. It snaps detailed images of the groove cut into the disc, and uses the images to reconstruct the sound without ever touching the record.

article continues here

KEF Introduces Latest Speaker Concept

2009-05-27T18:06:00.001-04:00

Concept cars are one of the primary tools that auto companies use to market and infuse a design ethic into their product lines, with the introduction of the Muon concept in 2007, KEF showed the same acute sense of branding excitement into an existing product line. Now for 2009, the next generation of KEF concept speakers has been unveiled.

Of course, while the Concept Blade is not for sale, it's design and principles are expected to take form in the existing KEF speaker line, including the KEF XQ20 which has been compiling rave reviews, well, everywhere!

*Concept Blade - The leading edge of acoustic technology

In loudspeaker engineering as in everything else, true innovation sometimes requires rethinking a problem from first principles. So when we set out to create the Concept Blade, our acoustic research department had complete freedom to explore radical new options. No preconceptions or aesthetic restrictions, and no reliance on existing components.

After three years of exhaustive testing and analysis of traditional as well as experimental approaches to loudspeaker design, they perfected a combination of technologies that generates an extraordinarily pure sound.

Concept Blade is forged from these technologies. Its exceptional acoustic integrity derives from the fact that every element of the system has been conceived to perform as a single coherent unit with all parts working in flawless harmony. The highest quality components and advanced materials have been used in perfecting the design.

While the technologies incorporated into the design are often very complex, the focus has always been on simplicity. The drivers are specifically designed to behave with zero break-up or resonance over their frequency range, and the distinctive cabinet is carefully engineered not to interfere with the purity of their output.

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” - Leonardo Da Vinci

Read on download PDF here…

Say It Again, Sam: Cayin H80A Hybrid Amplifier NOW IN STOCK!

2009-04-27T16:33:00.000-04:00

Need to add some horsepower to your stereo system? Cayin Audio USA has the solution with the H80a Hybrid Intregated Amplifier. A front end of two (2) 12AU7 vacuum tubes gives the warmth and dynamics of tube amplification, while a MOSFET solid-state amplifier backline pushes out 80 watts per channel of pure Class A power.

The result? A stunning synergy of solid-state responsiveness and power combined with the detail and warmth of tubes.

Cayin's hybrid circuitry utilizes the best of both stereo worlds, in an aesthetically-pleasing brushed aluminum industrial casings, with the matching blue-lit power meters on the front provide accurate usage tracking.

"I'm a tube guy, but I like power too. The H-80A has 12AX7 input tubes feeding a MOSFET output stage. It sounds sweet, but it'll drive just about any load. It's rated from 10Hz–40kHz," VAS Audio's Steve Leung told Stereophile magazine.

As usual, Cayin's attention to detail is impressive, with gold-plated input and output jacks including a pair of line-level RCA jacks for pre-amplification, if desired, and a pair of balanced input XLR jacks. The matching polished aluminum remote control provides control of the triode and ultralinear modes, with 80 watts per channel of pure class A on tap, rising to 150 wpc in the Class A/B mode.

"…The H-80A integrated amplifier strikes me as a landmark Cayin product – one that will more firmly imprint the company's name on the map of the world's premier hi-fi manufacturers. Don't tell your friends, who might think you spend $5000 or $6000 for this thing, but the H-80A retails for $3295…the H-80A fulfilled its promise of delivering the best of tubes and the best of solid-state. The sound was sweet, smooth and exquisitely extended in the treble, with nary a trace of hardness or harshness. Nor was there any lopping-off of the top end; it sparkled…Most impressive was the H-80A's harmonic presentation…With classical or with jazz, it was right on…For a $3000 integrated amplifier, this kind of performance is phenomenal…Put the Cayin H-80A up against anything. With any speakers." – Sam Tellig, Stereophile, August 2007

We couldn't agree more, Sam.

The facts:

Remote Control Full function including Triode and Ultralinear. Also,

Preamp Bypass for using A-300B as a power amp

Power Cord Detachable power cord with IEC chassis mount receptacle

Tube Compliment Two 12AU7 Input Tube

Frequency Response 10Hz-40kHz

THD = <.2% 1kHz, 80W, 8?

S/N Ratio 91dB

Input Sensitivity 380mV

Input Impedance 100k Ohm (RCA)

Output Impedance (WBT Style) 4, 8, 16 Ohm

Power Requirement AC 120V +/- 5%, 50~60Hz

Power Consumption 280W

Weight 80 pounds (96 pounds shipping weight)

Dimensions (WxDxH) 17" x 19" x 8"

Warranty 90-day guarantee for tubes; 3 year parts & labor (shipping not included.)

Other Dual 450W power transformers, extra large cooling radiator, black acrylic decorated panel, heavy duty knockdown amp feet, each foot can adjust the height independently, index type peak VU value ampre meter with blue background light

KEF XQ20 : Amazing Sound, Astounding Value

2009-04-23T14:30:00.000-04:00

After a substantial break-in period, our KEF XQ-20 standmount monitor speakers have really come into their own, with an amazing ability to fill our (admittedly) big and boxy room with a sweet, deep soundstage and impeccable resolution.

I swear, never again will I scoff when a rep tells me that speakers need to be broken in - after four or five hours of mid-volume play the resolution began to grow seemingly every 15-20 minutes and now after two weeks, these 20 lb. beauties push out a sound that would make most floorstanders blush with envy.

The first two sets (the wonderful Khaya Mahogany and the lighter Birdseye Maple) have already found happy homes and both purchasers are ecstatic with the results.

I can't state enough how beautiful these speakers are, with flawless fit and finish and an unmatched attention to detail that even extends into the packaging in dynamite-proof shipping cartons. Even the isolation feet come with little cups to keep things perfectly symmetrical.

The new Absolute Sound (April/May 2009 CES Issue) gives a brief rave and photo on page 18 - can a full review be in the making?

Stop in for an audition today, bring your favorite disc or record, but don't say we didn't warn you...the value at a low $1999 list price is amazing - KEF definitely outkicked their coverage with this one (American football reference).

Puretone Audio is now an authorized KEF dealer and we can obtain in the line right through the Stereophile Magazine Product of the Year 207/2 Reference loudspeakers.

Beatles CD Remasters Slated for September - Official Press Release

2009-04-07T09:31:00.000-04:00

The Beatles' Entire Original Recorded Catalogue Remastered By Apple Corps Ltd. And EMI Music For Worldwide Release On September 9, 2009

Apple Corps Ltd. and EMI Music are delighted to announce the release of the original Beatles catalogue, which has been digitally re-mastered for the first time, for worldwide CD release on Wednesday, September 9, 2009 (9-9-09), the same date as the release of the widely anticipated “The Beatles: Rock Band” video game. Each of the CDs is packaged with replicated original UK album art, including expanded booklets containing original and newly written liner notes and rare photos. For a limited period, each CD will also be embedded with a brief documentary film about the album. On the same date, two new Beatles boxed CD collections will also be released.

The albums have been re-mastered by a dedicated team of engineers at EMI’s Abbey Road Studios in London over a four year period utilising state of the art recording technology alongside vintage studio equipment, carefully maintaining the authenticity and integrity of the original analogue recordings. The result of this painstaking process is the highest fidelity the catalogue has seen since its original release.

The collection comprises all 12 Beatles albums in stereo, with track listings and artwork as originally released in the UK, and 'Magical Mystery Tour,' which became part of The Beatles’ core catalogue when the CDs were first released in 1987. In addition, the collections 'Past Masters Vol. I and II' are now combined as one title, for a total of 14 titles over 16 discs. This will mark the first time that the first four Beatles albums will be available in stereo in their entirety on compact disc. These 14 albums, along with a DVD collection of the documentaries, will also be available for purchase together in a stereo boxed set.

Within each CD’s new packaging, booklets include detailed historical notes along with informative recording notes. With the exception of the 'Past Masters' set, newly produced mini-documentaries on the making of each album, directed by Bob Smeaton, are included as QuickTime files on each album. The documentaries contain archival footage, rare photographs and never-before-heard studio chat from The Beatles, offering a unique and very personal insight into the studio atmosphere.

A second boxed set has been created with the collector in mind. 'The Beatles in Mono' gathers together, in one place, all of the Beatles recordings that were mixed for a mono release. It will contain 10 of the albums with their original mono mixes, plus two further discs of mono masters (covering similar ground to the stereo tracks on 'Past Masters'). As an added bonus, the mono “Help!” and “Rubber Soul” discs also include the original 1965 stereo mixes, which have not been previously released on CD. These albums will be packaged in mini-vinyl CD replicas of the original sleeves with all original inserts and label designs retained.

Discussions regarding the digital distribution of the catalogue will continue. There is no further information available at this time.

http://www.thebeatles.com

The Stereo Albums (available individually and collected in a stereo boxed set)
The stereo albums have been remastered by Guy Massey, Steve Rooke, Sam Okell with Paul Hicks and Sean Magee
All CD packages contain original vinyl artwork and liner notes
Extensive archival photos
Additional historical notes by Kevin Howlett and Mike Heatley
Additional recording notes by Allan Rouse and Kevin Howlett
* = CD includes QuickTime mini-doc about the album
Please Please Me* (CD debut in stereo)
With The Beatles* (CD debut in stereo)
A Hard Day's Night* (CD debut in stereo)
Beatles For Sale* (CD debut in stereo)
Help!*
Rubber Soul*
Revolver*
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band* (also includes 1987 notes, updated, and new intro by Paul McCartney)
Magical Mystery Tour*
The Beatles*
Yellow Submarine* (also includes original US liner notes)
Abbey Road*
Let It Be*
Past Masters (contains new liner notes written by Kevin Howlett)

‘The Beatles in Mono’ (boxed set only)
The mono albums have been remastered by Paul Hicks, Sean Magee with Guy Massey and Steve Rooke
Presented together in box with an essay written by Kevin Howlett
+ = mono mix CD debut
Please Please Me
With The Beatles
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles For Sale
Help! (CD also includes original 1965 stereo mix)+
Rubber Soul (CD also include original 1965 stereo mix)+
Revolver+
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band+
Magical Mystery Tour+
The Beatles+
Mono Masters

Re-mastering the Beatles catalogue

The re-mastering process commenced with an extensive period conducting tests before finally copying the analogue master tapes into the digital medium. When this was completed, the transfer was achieved using a Pro Tools workstation operating at 24 bit 192 kHz resolution via a Prism A-D converter. Transferring was a lengthy procedure done a track at a time. Although EMI tape does not suffer the oxide loss associated with some later analogue tapes, there was nevertheless a slight build up of dust, which was removed from the tape machine heads between each title.

From the onset, considerable thought was given to what audio restorative processes were going to be allowed. It was agreed that electrical clicks, microphone vocal pops, excessive sibilance and bad edits should be improved where possible, so long as it didn’t impact on the original integrity of the songs.

In addition, de-noising technology, which is often associated with re-mastering, was to be used, but subtly and sparingly. Eventually, less than five of the 525 minutes of Beatles music was subjected to this process. Finally, as is common with today’s music, overall limiting - to increase the volume level of the CD - has been used, but on the stereo versions only. However, it was unanimously agreed that because of the importance of The Beatles’ music, limiting would be used moderately, so as to retain the original dynamics of the recordings.

When all of the albums had been transferred, each song was then listened to several times to locate any of the agreed imperfections. These were then addressed by Guy Massey, working with Audio Restoration engineer Simon Gibson.

Mastering could now take place, once the earliest vinyl pressings, along with the existing CDs, were loaded into Pro Tools, thus allowing comparisons to be made with the original master tapes during the equalization process. When an album had been completed, it was auditioned the next day in studio three – a room familiar to the engineers, as all of the recent Beatles mixing projects had taken place in there – and any further alteration of EQ could be addressed back in the mastering room. Following the initial satisfaction of Guy and Steve, Allan Rouse and Mike Heatley then checked each new re-master in yet another location and offered any further suggestions. This continued until all 13 albums were completed to the team’s satisfaction.

New Notes/Documentaries Team

Kevin Howlett (Historical and Recording Notes)
Kevin Howlett’s career as an award-winning radio producer spans three decades. His music programmes for the BBC have included many documentaries about The Beatles, including 'The Beeb's Lost Beatles Tapes.' He received a Grammy nomination for his involvement with The Beatles’ album 'Live At The BBC' and, in 2003, produced the 'Fly On The Wall' bonus disc for 'Let It Be… Naked.'

Mike Heatley (Historical Notes)
Mike entered the music business via HMV Record Stores in 1970, transferring to EMI Records' International Division three years later. He eventually headed up that division in the early Eighties before joining the company's newly created Strategic Marketing Division in 1984. In 1988, he returned to International, where he undertook a number of catalogue marketing roles until he retired in December 2008.

During his career he worked with many of EMI's major artists, including Pink Floyd, Queen, Kate Bush and Iron Maiden. However, during the last 30 years he has formed a particularly strong relationship with Apple, and has been closely involved in the origination and promotion of the Beatles catalogue, besides solo releases from John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Bob Smeaton (Director, Mini-Documentaries)
Bob Smeaton was series director and writer on the Grammy award winning 'Beatles Anthology' TV series which aired in the UK and the USA in 1995. In 1998 he received his second Grammy for his ‘Jimi Hendrix: Band of Gypsys’ documentary. In 2004 he gained his first feature film credit, as director on the feature documentary ‘Festival Express.' He subsequently went on to direct documentaries on many of the world's biggest music acts including The Who, Pink Floyd, The Doors, Elton John, Nirvana and the Spice Girls.

Julian Caiden (Editor, Mini-Documentaries)
Julian has worked with Bob Smeaton on numerous music documentaries including 'Jimi Hendrix: Band of Gypsys' and the 'Classic Albums' series, featuring The Who, Pink Floyd, The Doors, Elton John and Nirvana among others. He has worked on documentary profiles from Richard Pryor to Dr. John to Sir Ian McKellen, Herbie Hancock and Damien Hirst and on live music shows including the New York Dolls and Club Tropicana.

The Abbey Road Team

Allan Rouse (Project Coordinator)
Allan joined EMI straight from school in 1971 at their Manchester Square head office, working as an assistant engineer in the demo studio. During this time he frequently worked with Norman (Hurricane) Smith, The Beatles’ first recording engineer.

In 1991, he had his first involvement with The Beatles, copy¬ing all of their master tapes (mono, stereo, 4-track and 8-track) to digital tape as a safety backup. This was followed by four years working with Sir George Martin as assistant and project coordinator on the TV documentary 'The Making of Sgt. Pepper's' and the CDs 'Live at the BBC' and 'The Anthol¬ogy.'

In 1997, MGM/UA were preparing to reissue the film 'Yellow Submarine' and, with the permission of Apple, asked that all of The Beatles’ music be mixed for the film in 5.1 surround and stereo. Allan requested the services of Abbey Road’s senior engineer Peter Cobbin and assistant Guy Massey and, along with them, produced the new mixes.

Two years later, he proposed an experimental stereo and surround mix of John Lennon's song 'Imagine' engineered by Peter Cobbin. Following lengthy consultations with Yoko Ono, the album 'Imagine' was re-mixed in stereo and the Grammy award-winning film 'Gimme Some Truth' in surround and new stereo. This led to a further five of John’s albums being re-mastered with new stereo mixes and the DVD release of 'Lennon Legend' being re-mixed in 5.1 surround and new stereo.

Further projects followed, including The Beatles ‘Anthol¬ogy', 'The First US Visit' and ‘Help’ DVD and the albums ‘Let It Be…Naked’ and ‘Love’ along with George Harrison’s 'Concert for Bangladesh' DVD and album.

For a number of years now, Allan has worked exclusively on Beatles and related projects.

Guy Massey (Recording Engineer)
Guy joined Abbey Road in 1994, and five years later assisted on the surround remix for The Beatles film 'Yellow Submarine.' This led to The Beatles’ 'Anthology' DVD and later, along with Paul Hicks and Allan Rouse, they mixed and produced 'Let It Be… Naked.' In 2004 he left the studios to become freelance and has engineered The Divine Comedy: 'Victory for the Comic Muse,' Air Traffic: 'Fractured Life,' James Dean Bradfield: 'The Great Western' and Stephen Fretwell’s 'Magpie,' co-producing the last two. Since leaving, Guy is still a vital member of the team, and has been the senior engineer for the re-mastering project and was responsible for surround and new stereo mixes for the DVD release of 'Help!'

Steve Rooke (Mastering Engineer)
Steve joined Abbey Road in 1983 and is now the studio’s senior mastering engineer. He has been involved on all The Beatles’ projects since 1999. He has also been responsible for mastering releases by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr.

Paul Hicks (Recording Engineer)
Paul started at Abbey Road in 1994, and his first involvement with The Beatles was assisting engineer Geoff Emerick on the Anthology albums. This was followed by 'Yellow Submarine Songtrack,' 'Anthology' DVD and 'Let It Be… Naked.' Like Guy Massey, he has also become a freelance engineer and since leaving the studios he has been responsible for the surround mixing of Paul McCartney’s DVD 'The McCartney Years' and The Beatles' 'Love.' Paul has been in charge of the mono re-masters.

Sean Magee (Mastering Engineer)
Sean began working at Abbey Road in 1995 with a diploma in sound engineering. With a wealth of knowledge in analog and digital mastering, he has worked alongside Paul Hicks on the mono re-masters.

Sam Okell (Recording Engineer)
Sam’s first job as a member of the team was in 2006, assisting Paul Hicks on Paul McCartney’s DVD 'The McCartney Years,' and during that same year he was responsible for the re-mastering of George Harrison’s 'Living In The Material World' CD along with Steve Rooke. This led to him restoring the soundtrack to the Beatles film 'Help!' in surround and stereo, in addition to assisting Guy Massey with the song remixes.

Sam has re-mastered 'With The Beatles' and 'Let It Be.'

Simon Gibson (Audio Restoration Engineer)
Simon joined Abbey Road in 1990. He has progressed from mastering mostly classical recordings to include a much wider range of music, including pop and rock, with his specialized role as an audio restoration engineer. Apart from the re-mastering project, his other work includes George Harrison’s 'Living In The Material World,' John Lennon’s 'Lennon Legend,' The Beatles’ 'Love' and the 'Help!' DVD soundtrack.

Excitement Builds for New KEF XQ-20 Speakers

2009-04-05T14:32:00.000-04:00

It's not often that we get genuinely, jump-up-and-down excited about new products here at Puretone Audio in sunny/overcast/snowing Litchfield, Connecticut, but we have the store staked out for the FedEx guy awaiting the arrival of our first few pairs of the KEF XQ20 speakers.

The short list:

- High Resolution
- Compact Size
- Expansive Soundstage
- Immaculate Finish and Construction
- Bi-Amp Compatible
- Fantastic Value

here is what AV Review (UK) has to say...

High on designer attraction, the XQ20 was sent to us in faultless piano black and is arguably the best-looking monitor of the group. It was certainly the focus of attention for most visitors to the listening room. Its metallic-finish cone also added to the smartness of the presentation. Equally impressive are the other two finishes, Birdseye Maple and Khaya Mahogany.

KEF uses its famous Uni-Q mid/bass driver with centre-mounted tweeter. There are some notable changes here, including cone shape upgrading to match the new 19 mm elliptical tweeter and 'tangerine' wave guide. The woofer also uses a redesigned voice coil assembly with new materials. These changes to the main driver include extra cone excursion.

The enclosure features a large front-mounted reflex port which means that tonal changes are likely to be less noticeable in response to room shape and positioning. Stability is assured with three-point mounting using substantial metal feet which are height adjustable at the front. A fairly wide stance means that not all speaker stands have a large enough platform to accommodate them.

Passing from one monitor to another, the KEF demands attention during listening tests with a high gain and accurate attack. Everything about the speaker's sound suggests that it has been carefully voiced and is the recipient of a massive research and development programme to produce instant listening satisfaction. There is no doubt that this is a speaker designed to impress, particularly with its finely-drawn sound stage capabilities.

The specifics:

* Full bandwidth two-way stand mount/bookshelf speaker
KEF's latest 165mm (6.5in) Uni-Q midrange/HF 'point source' array with new 'tangerine' waveguide
* Natural-sounding high performance elliptical dome 19mm (0.75in) tweeter
* Low distortion 165mm (6.5in) driver
* Magnetically shielded, with a choice of three superb high gloss finishes and optional stand
* $1999 suggested list price

Clapton and Winwood Live Set Coming May 12

2009-03-22T13:19:00.000-04:00

Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood - Live From Madison Square Garden is set for a spring release (May 12 is the current date)

It will be available as a four-disc set (2 DVDs and 2 CDs) and also as individual CD and DVD releases The shows are compiled from the February 2008 Garden run that the two played on together.

The DVD will run as a complete show although the running order is slightly different than on the night.

DVD 1
01. Had To Cry Today
02. Them Changes
03. Forever Man
04. Sleeping In The Ground
05. Presence Of The Lord
06. Glad
07. Well All Right
08. Double Trouble
09. Pearly Queen
10. Tell The Truth
11. No Face No Name No Number
12. After Midnight
13. Split Decision
14. Rambling On My Mind (EC solo acoustic)
15. Georgia On My Mind (SW solo hammond)
16. Little Wing
17. Voodoo Chile
18. Can’t Find My Way Home
19. Dear Mr Fantasy
Encore:
20. Cocaine

DVD 2
Includes ‘The Road to Madison Square Garden’, an exclusive documentary featuring new interviews with Eric and Steve, together with rare footage and photographs of Cream, Traffic and Blind Faith. ‘Rambling On My Mind’: The final preparation for the three legendary performances highlighted by an acoustic soundcheck performance by Eric of the Robert Johnson standard ‘Rambling On My mind’.

Plus Bonus Performances of ‘Lowdown’, ‘Kind Hearted Blues’ and “Crossroads’.

CD1

01. Had To Cry Today 
02. Low Down
03. Them Changes 
04. Forever Man
05. Sleeping In The Ground
06. Presence Of The Lord 
07. Glad
08. Well Alright
09. Double Trouble
10. Pearly Queen 
11. Tell The Truth 
12. No Face No Name No Number

CD2
01. After Midnight
02. Split Decision
03. Rambling On My Mind (EC solo acoustic)
04. Georgia On My Mind (SW solo hammond)
05. Little Wing 
06. Voodoo Chile 
07. Can’t Find My Way Home 
08. Dear Mr Fantasy
09. Cocaine

Vinyl Numbers

2009-03-16T09:41:00.000-04:00

Here are Soundscam's ridiculously underreported vinyl numbers for 2008...at least it shows some interesting trends of who and what are selling on LP.

Neutral Milk Hotel should be passing GNR any day now (*aka since Chinese Democracy tanked) for the 2009 chart...

2008 TOP TEN VINYL ARTISTS

(based on vinyl album sales from 12/31/2007-12/28/2008)

Artist Units Sold
1 Radiohead 61,200
2 Metallica 39,500
3 Beatles 20,400
4 Elliott Smith 17,800
5 Bob Dylan 15,200
6 Portishead 15,100
7 Ryan Adams 14,000
8 Coldplay 13,900
9 Guns ‘N Roses 13,600
10. Neutral Milk Hotel 13,200

Vinyl Takes Another Spin With Music Lovers

2009-02-09T10:00:00.001-05:00

Our friend Eric Danton had this great article in Sunday's Hartford Courant

By ERIC R. DANTON | The Hartford Courant
February 8, 2009

As album sales plummeted in 2008 for the seventh time in eight years, there was one bright spot for a music industry still in love with physical products: Sales of vinyl records increased by nearly 90 percent.

That's right, they still make vinyl. Consumers bought almost 1.9 million new LPs last year, the most since Nielsen SoundScan started keeping track of such things in 1991. That's a mere fraction of the total music sold in 2008 — 1.5 billion units, which accounts for albums, singles, digital tracks and music videos. But it's a strong showing for a format thought to have begun its death spiral with the introduction of the compact disc 25 years ago.

Actually, the dominance of digital music is part of what has sparked a resurgent interest in vinyl, say some in the music industry.

"Ultimately, I think in some form it is a backlash against technology," says Jack Tieleman, who owns the small Canadian label Lance Rock. "There is something special about having to look after your purchase. Downloads and CDs do not have this quality. The consumer recognizes the value of the product and is willing to pay for it."

Tieleman, whose label has put out vinyl editions of CD releases by country-noir singer Neko Case, stopped making compact discs five years ago to focus on LPs.

It's not just indie labels that are keeping vinyl alive. EMI has been reissuing some of the most revered records on its Capitol and Virgin labels, including albums by the Beatles, Roxy Music and Radiohead, along with new albums by Brian Wilson and Glen Campbell.

read the full article here

Rega Introduces New Speaker Line!

2009-02-02T18:02:00.001-05:00

Whoa!!! Now if only a stateside magazine would REVIEW Rega's speakers...(hint hint)
"Oh, we already review their turntables" is NOT an acceptable excuse when a product features the Rega trifecta of engineering, workmanship and value.

Puretone Audio is proud to announce the highest performance Rega loudspeaker range to date. The New RS range offers superb performance combined with classic good looks and outstanding craftsmanship.

The entire range features the new Rega-designed high frequency unit using Z-R-R technology (Zero Rear Reflection) The RS7 uses our new HF20-ZRR high frequency unit which is uniquely designed by Rega. By removing unwanted rear reflection the design of the ZRR tweeter helps maintain a distortion free response.

RS5 and RS7 use re-designed 8-layer side mount bass driver for improved bass response and stunning sound reproduction.

New high-quality real wood veneered cabinets make the Rega RS line beautiful furnishing accessories, highlighted by new grille and foot designs.

The full range of new loudspeakers will include RS1 / RS3 / RS5 and RS7, for full details on all of the new speakers in the range please click here...

Puretone Audio is northwestern Connecticut's authorized Rega Research dealer and features a full array of Rega turntables, amplifiers, CD players, speakers and accessories.

Get classic British hi-fi quality at a stateside price!!!

A New Faces album ???

2009-01-25T18:22:00.000-05:00

(just had to take time out from the usual audio babble to report this!)

The previously rumored Faces reunion is apparently on, as Contact Music is reporting (via a report in The Sun) that the band have completed an album of new material, and are planning to hit the road this summer with original members Rod Stewart, Ron Wood, Kenney Jones, Ian McLagan all signed on to tour. The band reportedly recorded the album in Costa Rica, Bermuda, and Miami. There's no word on when the tour will start, or when the album will be out, so all of this is still tentative.

“We just have to sort out when and where and drop all of the management egos and just do what we can. We know we can do it. It’s just a matter of getting everyone’s availability sometime next year,” Wood said.

But...Rod Stewart denies reunion

Now that we've cleared up Flea's non-involvement with The Faces, the situation betweenold mates Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood remains murky. Published reports last year confirmed that the two had agreed to reform the band.

Today, however, a spokesman for Stewart told Billboard that the singer claims "there are no plans for a Faces reunion next year."

and Mac chimes in:

"The rehearsals were a lot of fun, everybody was in fine form, but nothing's happened since November. Don't believe anything you read about an album in the works,
or a tour being planned until you read it here, because this page is bullshit free. I kid you not. I'll be happy to announce good news, or any news, if and when there
is some.

People lie, I don't know why, who cares? "

-Ian McLagan, 1.23.2009

Okay so it's back to listening to the Faces box set and keeping the fingers crossed then...

Rega Introduces the Elicit Amplifier

2008-11-06T07:57:00.000-05:00

Elicit
In 1988 Rega conceived the Elicit. This was the first of two amplifiers to be launched & manufactured by Rega in 1990.

We have utilized the knowledge base and experience gained since the conception of the original Elicit to bring you, the listener, the astounding all new Elicit integrated amplifier.

The new Elicit features a circuit entirely designed by Rega, refined by extensive listening and computer based design procedures.

At Rega we are very proud of what we have achieved with the new Elicit amplifier, and hope that you, the listener, will appreciate and enjoy the amplifiers contemporary design and casework aesthetics.

In common with all Rega products, the Elicit amplifier has been designed without compromise. Our time, efforts & money have been spent on developing the circuit and construction, utilizing the highest specification of components throughout.

As part of the design we have included useful features to enable the Elicit amplifier to be used in a wide combination of systems.

The New Elicit Amplifier is a high performance audio amplifier using the Rega Alpha-Encoder control system, comprising of a digitally controlled analog switched resistor network volume control, with a class A discrete low noise FET line amplifier. The signal switching is routed by high quality loss-less relays. High quality Evox and ICEL film capacitors have been used in sonically critical signal path positions throughout.

The power amplifier is of a fully symmetrical design using advanced Sanken Darlington power transistors. The power supply uses a generously rated toridal transformer assembled using highest quality core material. Finally the Elicit is housed in the enhanced Rega custom-built extruded aluminum case incorporating three high thermal efficiency heat sinks. Rega has kept the same level of performance and synergy between stages as in the original Elicit amplifier but with a better level of functionality in the volume control and user interface.

The Elicit is an 80-Watt integrated amplifier, which can be the heart of a traditional two-channel system, or integrated into a multi channel system where no compromise two-channel performance is required. The Elicit has a direct input feeding the power amplifier, which for example, can be a signal from a multi channel processor etc; and a pre-amplifier output, which enables the amplifier to be expanded to drive Bi-amplifier(s) or active or multiple speaker systems, for example, subs bass etc. The gain of the power amplifier is 28dB for full output, which makes it compatible with a wide variety of other power amplifiers. The amplifier is fully short circuit and DC protected.

Volume control
The volume level is controlled via a microprocessor, which in turn takes its information from the volume digital encoder on the front panel or remote control handset.

The volume control has a resolution of 1dB per step, giving a total range of 80 steps over the available gain or volume range of 80dB.

There is a calibrated LED display comprising of 20 LED's, which indicates the gain level or relative position of the volume control; this is calibrated in 4dB steps, across the total gain of volume range. The left and right channels are matched and balanced within 0.2dB, ensuring a centrally placed soundstage no matter what the volume position or which gain level has been set.

The stepped resistive networks of the volume control are placed in the feedback and input circuits of a low noise class A discrete FET line amplifier, thereby optimizing the gain of the line amplifier for a good signal to noise ratio. Also, the stepped resistive network provides the amplifier input with constant input impedance, providing the source component (CD, tuner, tape etc) with a constant impedance load and eliminating the possible changes in sound quality with different volume control positions.

Features...

Discrete circuitry used in the signal path.

Polypropylene capacitors used in all sonically critical positions.

High specification Relay switching used throughout.

Symmetrical power amplifier utilizing state of the art Sanken Darlington output transistors with enhanced thermal stability.

Higher than normal Class A quiescent current.

Galvanically isolated power supplies for the pre amplifier, power amplifier & digital circuits.

Fast diodes used in the audio power supplies.
Nine individual power supplies.

High stability low noise voltage references used throughout.

Low noise servo controlled FET pre-amplifier with the minimum of coupling capacitors.

Wolfson digitally controlled stepped attenuator volume control.

Generous heat sinks for continuous use.

Plug in card for MM & MC input and future options.

Direct input for integration into multi channel systems.

Military specification wire used for speaker wiring.

Single PCB construction ensuring short signal paths.

Large toroidal transformer.

Our price on the Elicit, including shipping, is $2995.00, please contact karl@puretoneaudio.com immediately as there are only a limited number of Elicits available until the first of the year.

WAA Presents: 33 1/3 The Art of Sound

2008-10-12T19:58:00.000-04:00

Visit My Photos - 24 Pics

WAA Art Show

I haven't had time to post much as I've been working on a very special art installation for the Washington Art Association, entitled 33 1/3: The Art of Sound.

I didn't really know what to expect, as I've usually been asked to comment on music rather than art, but I'm very happy with the way it came out and the response has been absolutely overwhelming.

Jaime Ferris, from the Litchfield County Times and New Milford Times, did an excellent feature that perfectly distilled the essence of the show.

check out Jaime's article here.

The show is scheduled to continue through October 26, so if you have a chance stop in and check it out.

Hours and Directions

HOURS
The public is always welcome to visit the Washington Art Association.
Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 to 5, Sundays 12 to 5. Closed
on Monday. For more infomation, please call WAA at 860-868-2878, or contact us by e-mail.

DIRECTIONS TO WAA
The Washington Art Association is located in Bryan Memorial Plaza in the
center of Washington Depot, CT across from the Washington Post Office.

>From New Milford take Rt. 202 north to Rt. 109. Continue on Rt. 109, turning
right at T intersection, into Washington Depot. Turn right into Bryan
Memorial Plaza. WAA is at the end of the Plaza on the right.

>From Southbury take exit 15 off of I-84, take Rt. 6 to Rt. 47 into
Washington Depot. Turn left into Bryan Memorial Plaza. WAA is at the end of
the plaza on the right.

>From Roxbury take Rt. 67 to Rt. 47 into Washington Depot. Turn left into
Bryan Memorial Plaza. WAA is at the end of the plaza on the right.

> From Woodbury take Rt. 47 at Canfield Corners to Washington Depot. Turn left
into Bryan Memorial Plaza. WAA is at the end of the plaza on the right.

http://www.washingtonart.org/

Rega R7 Speakers: State of the Art Soundsculpting

2008-08-26T20:42:00.000-04:00

The selection of speakers is perhaps the most crucial element to any sound system, and should be carefully considered with a complimentary amplifier to maximize the sonics of both elements.

Too much speaker and not enough amplifier will leave a system sounding weak and brittle, with an inability to separate the dynamic range. Too little speaker will often lead to a system favoring a treble response, with accompanying shrillness threatening to drown what could often be otherwise sound choices.

We recommend the Rega R7 speakers ($2995) as a great match to tube amplifiers like the Cayin A-100T. These fabulous-looking speakers (shown here in the rosenut color option) compliment the Cayin's valve-powered dynamics in the quest for an accurate soundstage, both in timing and timbre, and ability to navigate the sometimes treacherous dynamic range between sweet, melodious highs and powerful seismic lows.

The R7 relies on Rega’s in-house built drivers that are built to a tolerance level that minimizes the need for crossover correction. Rega utilizes an ultra-efficient design that does not require a huge power amplifier, much less the overkill of trillion-watt monoblock pairs. The lower octaves are sing forth effortlessly when called upon, with the mid and upper ranges capable with an at times breathtaking naturalness. Space and depth create a dynamic dimensional soundstage that fills the room like a band playing in the corner.

Construction of the R7 is superb, with the design of a relatively narrow though stylish front face, with magnetically-mounted front screens to the side-mounted bass driver, earning good ergonomic points as well. Beautiful ridged contours on the upper cabinet contribute to an art deco aura, while the purposeful and rock solid base speak to the highly-engineered nature of the R7. Unlike some other modern speakers, the Regas don't look like escapees from the Lucasfilm prop room.

Also purposeful is a distinct lack of corpulence compared to other speakers in the same price range, at under 40 lbs. apiece, maneuvering and placement for maximum sonic effect is no longer a backbreaking and chiropractor inducing chore.

2005 - Hi Fi Choice Bronze award winner for best loudspeakers between £1000 - £2000 per pair

Height (without spikes)...972mm
Depth at plinth...............348mm
Width at plinth...............270mm
Weight................................17kg

Nominal Impedance........6ohms
Sensitivity...........(Approx) 89dB
Bi-wirable/Bi-ampable..........yes
Power Handling................125w per channel.

Stereophile Drools on Cayin A-50T

2008-07-14T18:22:00.001-04:00

from STEREOPHILE MAGAZINE

By Robert J. Reina • March, 2008

Late in 2006, I was watching John Atkinson set up a pair of DPA cardioid microphones in front of the stage of New York City's Otto's Shrunken Head to record a performance of my jazz quartet, Attention Screen (footnote 1). Before the first set, Wes Phillips approached me. "Bob, I found a piece of equipment you must review—the Cayin A-50T integrated amp. It's only 1300 bucks and you'll love it!"

In the two decades I've known Wes, I've learned to trust his hearing acuity and taste in equipment, but I've also learned that he rarely raves openly about a piece of gear, let alone an affordable one. So I gave Cayin importer Steve Leung, of VAS Industries, a call.

Design
The Cayin A-50T ($1395) is an integrated amplifier with two push-pull pairs of Mullard EL34 tubes that can be operated in 35Wpc Ultralinear or 16Wpc Triode, the modes switchable via the included remote control. The A-50T features point-to-point wiring, a toroidal power transformer, and two EI audio output transformers, all specially manufactured for Cayin in an attempt to achieve low magnetic leakage, wide frequency response, and low impedance. The amp also has two 12AX7EH and two 12AU7EH tubes (the EH stands for Electro Harmonix), four line-level inputs, and 8 and 4 ohm output taps. Its snap-on tube cage is easily removable.

Normally, I wouldn't expect an affordable, Chinese-made integrated powered by tubes to be the last word in rugged construction or sexy cosmetics. The Cayin A-50T proved me wrong in both regards. The ruggedness of the Cayin's parts and construction is something I usually associate with multi-kilobuck electronics made in the US, and the amp is visually stunning. The curves of the chassis, faceplate, and removable tube cage suggest fine jewelry, not audio gear. Finally, the amp comes with generous warranties on parts and labor (three years), though only 90 days on the tubes.

I listened to the A-50T through Monitor Audio Silver RS6 loudspeakers, along with my usual analog and digital front ends, and did most of my listening in the amp's 35Wpc Ultralinear mode.

Listening
I was hoping to hear from the Cayin A-50T a richly holographic soundstage and an uncolored midrange, and it did not disappoint. Singer-songwriter Ashley Mounts' eponymous debut CD (private recording) revealed her angelic, holographically recorded soprano as she wove her elliptical melodies through an extensive vocal range against a somewhat minimal piano backdrop. On the male side, Tom Waits's voice, on his Mule Variations (LP, Anti- 8 65470 1), was appropriately rough, growly, and rich.

The Cayin's midrange reproduction was that of an amplifier able to resolve an extraordinary amount of inner detail for the price. On Tord Gustavsen's The Ground (CD, ECM 1892), every subtle low-level dynamic articulation and rich, resonant tone of Gustavsen's sparse, airy piano style was transparent and easy to follow, even in the softest passages of the recording. Fans of jazz woodwinds should be pleased with the Cayin's low coloration and linear and organic articulation of low-level midrange dynamics. I listened to Maria Schneider's big-band jazz recording, Allegresse (CD, Enja 9393-2), and noted: "Silky blend of saxophones with burnished blatty brass float on a bed of air."

review continues here

THE CAYIN A-50T is OUR BEST SELLING TUBE AMPLIFIER at Puretone Audio - ALWAYS IN STOCK and ready for auditions!!!

Cayin iDAC Gets Rave Review

2008-05-28T17:53:00.000-04:00

SG Baird reviews the Cayin iDAC-1
Wed, 03/26/2008 - 09:35 — sgbaird

from The Computer Audiophile

Wow, what a great sounding audio component! I could end this review here, and be satisfied that some readers might get the idea in their heads to give it a try, but for the majority of jaded audiophiles out there that adhere to the notion that something that costs more will always sound better, let me elaborate on why I think many seasoned audiophiles would find Cayin’s iDAC-1 a final purchase.

First off, though, let me tell you that after I had decided that I wanted to give the Cayin a try, I found only one dealer in the whole USA that had this DAC in stock at the time I was looking; all of the others that responded to my inquiry told me that they would have to order it from the importer and then ship it on to me. That would normally send up a red flag for me, but I recall that I had experienced similar situations back in 1999 when I decided that I wanted to try SACD. My local Marantz dealer said that there just wasn’t enough interest in the SACD format for him to carry their players, but that he would special order one for me.

If you are an avid audiophile, the Cayin name will be familiar to you, but if it’s not, Cayin is one of the few Chinese-made brands that have made it to prestige status among the cognoscenti, primarily for their well-made and beautiful range of amplifiers and preamps. In fact, two of my long-time audio buddies have had Cayin products in their systems at one time or another, and this kind of endorsement was just what I needed to settle it for me. I ordered my iDAC-1 from the dealer who had it in stock and it arrived in just two days.

READ the rest of the review here

Affectionately known here at Puretone Audio as "the washing machine", the Cayin iDac is in stock and available with FREE FEDEX GROUND SHIPPING for just $795.00

Litchfield Musical Entities Jammin'

2008-05-12T08:16:00.000-04:00

By: Emily M. Olson
04/24/2008

(from The Litchfield County Times)

Three music lovers who were running their businesses separately for years have joined forces on Route 202 in Litchfield, and their combined efforts are quickly becoming a destination in town.

Joe DiBlasi, owner of Litchfield Piano Works, Scott Johnson, owner of Big Johnsons Guitars and ABC Music School, and Phoenix Records owner Karl Uberbacher are all happily living under one roof. Mr. Johnson, whose business was formerly located in Torrington, moved into Mr. DiBlasi's building in February, followed by Mr. Uberbacher in early April. Phoenix Records, which was formerly located in the Litchfield Commons, has a sister store in Waterbury, a business Mr. Uberbacher has owned for a decade that features LP records, CDs and stereo systems, including turntables and speakers.

Mr. DiBlasi, who owns the building, started his career as a piano repairman and professional tuner in 2003. He moved into part of the building in 2004, starting with four pianos. Today, there are more than 80 pianos in the expanded showroom adjacent to Big Johnson Guitars and the ABC Music School. He is also the top piano dealer in Connecticut.

It was Mr. DiBlasi's dream to have a music center like this one, where people could come for tutoring, advice and instruments. "I started working on Scotty about five months ago, getting him to think about coming here," said the enthusiastic Mr. DiBlasi, leading visitors on a tour of the newly-renovated building with a huge smile on his face. "As soon as he came in here, he picked up so many students. A lot of the students who were [attending the Litchfield Music School, the previous tenant], came back when Scotty opened."

"I feel so proud now," he added. "When people come in and they want a guitar, or they have questions, I say, 'Go see my friend Scotty.' It's just a natural progression to have us all together here. They're doing a wonderful job in the music store and the school ... and the record store is doing great."

The successful piano salesman still tunes his favorite instrument-he's the tuner for the Warner Theatre in Torrington and the Palace Theater in Waterbury, preparing pianos for the likes of BB King, Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett and Bobby Vinton before they take the stage. At Litchfield Piano Works, he sells pianos ranging in price from $1,200 to $50,000, as well as digital keyboards for various levels of skill. Among the brands he sells are Young Chang, Bosendorfer, Weber, Albert Weber and Schimmel, a handmade collection from Germany. The showroom is filled with the magnificent pianos, their keyboards gleaming, the benches inviting customers to sit and play.

"Every time I sold a piano, I bought two more," Mr. DiBlasi said. "That's how I built the inventory."

"He sells about 180 pianos a year," noted Mr. Johnson. "He is the piano man."

Mr. Johnson, a longtime guitar player whose favorite instrument is a vintage Gibson, hired Andrew Jamieson of Harwinton to run the music school. Both businesses are growing in popularity by the day. "Almost as soon as we opened, a lot of the students came back," Mr. Jamieson said. "We've probably got about 70 now."
"It's a nice place. The building is great. We had to do a lot of work and a lot of cleaning," Mr. Johnson said. "When we were in Torrington, our biggest concern was that we wanted to have enough space to grow our business. We can do that here."

Once the store was set up with an impressive display of name-brand used and new acoustic and electric guitars, as well as supplies, amps and other equipment, the partners set to work gutting and renovating the rear of the building and installing soundproof lesson rooms for students. The area is clean and bright, offering spaces for piano and guitar, mandolin and banjo lessons, as well as drum and vocal lessons. Band instrument lessons will be offered starting this summer. Professional pianists teach keyboards, and several of Mr. DiBlasi's pianos are part of the music school's repertoire of instruments available to the students. "All the music teachers have bachelor's degrees in their field of study," Mr. DiBlasi said. "Students can play on grand pianos for their lessons."

"All our students get 10 percent off on their supplies, too," Mr. Johnson said. "I also deal in vintage, new and used guitars, and I carry about 12 brands, and we do repairs on site. Basically, anything anyone wants in the musical realm, I can get it or I have access to it."

"We're all about the customer," he added. "We're not pushy. It's a laid back, relaxed atmosphere here. Customers really like that."

If they walk down a short hallway to the rear of the building, customers will find Phoenix Records in its new home. "What you're looking at is a renovated garage. That's what it was, three weeks ago," Mr. Uberbacher said with a laugh. "It's got lots of space and there's plenty of light from the back. I'm getting used to not having an office, but there are lots of things I can do in here."

Most of his inventory is LP records, or "vinyl" as the old-fashioned discs are sometimes called by collectors. Mr. Uberbacher has witnessed a renaissance of the LP in recent years, as well as the reinvention of turntable stereo systems. He sells a high quality line of equipment, and some of the better turntables are on display inside the store. His LP collection is varied and fun to peruse, with a bit of everything-rock, jazz, punk and blues, and everything in between. Mr. Uberbacher's Web sites, Puretoneaudio.com and phoenixrecords on ebay.com, are where customers can learn more about his sound systems, record trade-ins and donations. He is a longtime collector himself.

"I'd say the LP sales have increased by 40 percent in the past year or so. They're definitely making a comeback," Mr. Uberbacher said. "It's just better quality music. CDs were never meant to replace albums. They were made to replace tapes, and people don't realize the quality of the music they're missing by not hearing music on a record album."

He is also happy in his new home, and said the place is "energizing."
"Just being able to play music on a turntable, in a nice space with like-minded people like Scott and Joe, it's has made a real difference for me," Mr. Uberbacher said, adding that the last two years in the Litchfield Commons were "difficult."
"It's just a good feeling here," he added. "I feel like I'm finally starting to relax."

Litchfield Piano Works (860-567-5230, litchfieldpianoworks.com), Big Johnson Guitars and ABC Music School (860-618-2367, bigjohnsonsguitar.com, abcmusic.com) and Phoenix Records (860-361-9495) are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Sunday hours are by appointment.

©Litchfield County Times 2008

Cayin Audio New Arrivals!

2008-04-27T08:50:00.000-04:00

Just a quick update, as equipment has been arriving fast and furious in the past two weeks.

We are now settled into our plush new custom-designed space on Route 202 in Litchfield behind Joe DiBlasi's Litchfield Piano Works and Big Johnsons Guitars.

Puretone Audio is now an authorized Cayin USA dealer! Cayin features exquisitely designed classic tube amplification, with a gorgeous fit, finish and attention to detail. And of course, the soundstaging and dimensionality of the music presentation by Cayin's tube-fired beauties is simply stunning!

Currently we have the following Cayin designs in stock and ready to audition:

The Cayin A-50T EL-34 powered tube amplifier is 35 watts of valve power with fantastic presence. And at the entry-level price of just $1395, it's unlikely that there is a better value in tube amplification today.

A beautifully-crafted, hand-made tube piece manufactured to deliver the sound of the classic Marantz 8B, the Cayin Audio A-50T uses four EL-34s for Class A/B1 P.P amplification. The craftsmanship is absolutely first-rate, featuring point-to-point wiring, and each unit is hand-initialed by a quality-control inspector. The toroid power transformer and EI audio transformer are specially manufactured for the A-50T with low magnetic leakage, wide frequency response and low impedance. Two 12AX7EHs and two 12AU7s are used in the preamplifier. One very cool feature is the ability to switch between ultralinear and triode by remote control.

The Cayin A-50T is teaching the hi-fi world the mantra of many guitarists, there is no beating the sound and midrange response of EL-34 powered tube amp. Combining a classic design with the modern tolerances of the components and Cayin's attention to detail makes for an unrivaled combination of performance and design.

The A-50T was hand-built with extreme attention to detail, including point-to-point wiring. Point-to-point was the way that amps used to be wired back in the 1950s and '60s when cost was not the primary objective. Nowadays, most everything contains circuit boards instead of this point-to-point wiring, which is much more dependable and better performing. The bottom line is that point-to-point wiring sounds better. It's one of the main reasons why these Cayin pieces sound like the classic tube gear from Marantz and McIntosh.
These days, products that feature point-to-point wiring usually either cost a fortune, or they feature sub-par workmanship. But in this case, you simply are not going to find craftsmanship like with this Cayin gear for anywhere close to this price.

The Cayin A-70T ($2195) is also modeled on the venerable Marantz 8B, but upping the dose with extra power.

It uses four big bottle KT-88s tubes for Class A2 P.P amplification. The toroid power transformer and EI audio transformer are specially manufactured with low magnetic leakage, wide frequency response and low impedance. Two 12AX7EHs and two 12AU7EHs are used in the preamplifier. The A-70T is flexible; it also works with KT-88, 6550, EL34, 6CA7, 6L6 or KT66 tubes and also features a Preamp Bypass for using A-70T as a power amp. Like all Cayin amplifiers feature the ability to switch between Ultralinear and Triode modes with the included remote control.

The A-70T is hand-built with Cayin's now legendary attention to detail, including point-to-point wiring. Point-to-point was the way that amps used to be wired back in the 1950s and '60s when cost was not the primary objective. Nowadays, most everything contains simple circuit boards instead of the labor intensive point-to-point wiring, which is much more dependable and better performing. It's one of the main reasons why these Cayin pieces sound like the classic tube gear from Marantz and McIntosh.

There are speaker output taps for 4, 8 or 16 ohms. This allows you to fine-tune the sound that you desire. Switching is simple, and listening to the differences is a lot of fun. This amp is auto biased so there's no need to fuss with matched tubes and bias adjustments.

There is a snap-on removable cage, so that you can take it on and off with no problem. Keep it on if you're worried about protecting your tubes, or take it off to show what the real big-bottle KT-88 look like. Turn off the lights and watch 'em glow.

And the flagship of Cayin's tube amplification line, the Cayin A-100T *(pictured above). A battery of eight (8) KT-88 tubes provide ample power and get the air in any speaker system moving, while the compliment of (1) 12AX7, (2) 12AU7 and (2) 6CG7 tubes provide unprecedented clarity and depth with enough power to push even the strongest of speakers.

At 75 lbs. and with a $3295 list price the A-100T is no lightweight. Featuring 100W of power in the triode mode and 50W in ultralinear, there is plenty of juice to get the speakers moving air. Another gorgeous, hand-crafted tube piece from Cayin, this one designed to deliver the sound of the classic McIntosh 7c preamp married to a Marantz 9 amplifier. With Marantz 9/McIntosh 7C replicas selling for upwards of $7000 the Cayin represents a tremendous value along with factory backing and a 3-year warranty.

Feel free to stop in for an audition of any of Cayin's fantastic products...and BELIEVE YOUR EARS.

The Rega Fono Mini - An Inexpensive Solution

2008-04-13T14:43:00.000-04:00

Once again, Rega has done it all.

Price? check
Quality? check
Durability? check

The new Rega Fono Mini is a quality phono pre-amplifier at a most enjoyable price point. Retailing at an ultra-affordable $145.00, indestructible Rega aluminum construction meets top-notch sound engineering to provide a tremendous bang for a few bucks.

The new Fono Mini benefits from an all-new extruded aluminium case and easy-to-use front and back panels that make this phono pre-amplifier a snap to install and enjoy, even for those who are not technically inclined.

The Fono Mini simply connects via standard RCA interconnects to the line input on your amplifier. Or connect the Fono Mini to the sound card of your computer so that you can import your vinyl to the digital archiving format of your choice.

At just $145.00, the Fono Mini is a fantastic value-for-money phono pre-amp that will be a great addition to any Hi-fi set up, adding authentic Rega quality at a entry-level price. This is a cost-effective version of the Rega MM Fono and based on the phono amplifier circuitry utilized in the revolutionary Rega Mira 3 amplifier.

This uses the same close tolerance parts as found in its bigger Fono & IOS brothers, but packaged in a minimalist satin black aluminum case for an accurate RIAA low-noise vinyl playback solution.

Simply plug in, sit back and enjoy!

Features...

*
Input sensitivity = 2mV for 200mV output
*
Input loading = 47KW in parallel with 100pF
*
Maximum input level = 65mV@1KHz
*
Minimum output load impedance = 10k Ohm
*
Power requirements = 24VAC @ 27.5mA
*
Frequency response (50KW load) = 15Hz (-3dB) to 100KHz (-0.5dB)
*
RIAA accuracy (50KW load) = +/-0.5dB 40Hz to 100KHz

* For a limited time, Puretone Audio is offering free shipping on the Rega Fono Mini, so you can plug right into system and turn it up in just a few days! Email karl@puretoneaudio.com for info...