Reviews & Awards by Brand: G-K
GigaWatt
Class leading, considered by leading reviewers as having the most advanced Power Conditioners & Power Cords - from Poland.
This is the best GigaWatt power conditioner I have ever heard and thus one of the best power systems I know. It brings peace, poise and clarity to the audio system, and at the same time adds weight to the sound and opens it up. And it shows the real dynamics of the recordings.
GIGAWATT PC4 EVO+ 12x NZ outlets, power conditioner
from RRP NZ$21,500 incl GST
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This is the best GigaWatt power conditioner I have ever heard . And thus one of the best power systems I know. It brings peace, poise and clarity to the audio system, and at the same time adds weight to the sound and opens it up. And it shows the real dynamics of the recordings. The sound attack is warmer, so there is no strong hit "here and now", but rather a strong, large, overall presentation. A well-designed, fantastically made, great-sounding product that should find its place in the best high-end systems . ■
…..High Fidelity - Wojciech Pacuła
GIGAWATT PowerControl 12x NZ outlets, power conditioner
from RRP NZ$10,500 incl GST
GigaWatt PowerControl is a device (particularly with the standard power cable) that will rather wrap you with a rich, dense, but at the same time clean, fleshy, expressive, coherent, and fluid sound,
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On the one hand, the GigaWatt PowerControl is a full-blooded power conditioner that will protect the components connected to it from surges, and overload, eliminate the DC component and ensure adequate current efficiency for almost any set of devices, including most amplifiers, one can throw at it. On the other hand, it will offer quite high fidelity to the recordings, which will be most obvious with all the audiophile releases, but when listening to the ones lacking a bit in terms of sound quality, it will still make listening to them enjoyable, focusing listener’s attention on music and emotions, and on the artistic value rather than on the sound as such.
GigaWatt PowerControl is a device (particularly with the standard power cable) that will rather wrap you with a rich, dense, but at the same time clean, fleshy, expressive, coherent, and fluid sound, than allow for studying the ‘errors’ made by performers or producers (although you can still hear these with it). So if you are interested in a presentation that focuses your attention more on the beautiful and emotional side of music then the new GigaWatt PowerControl may be what you are looking for. If you expect even higher fidelity to the recordings, buy it with one of the more expensive cables from the GigaWatt LS series and you should also be satisfied. If, on the other hand, you are looking for maximum fidelity for your recordings, ultimate resolution, and clarity, go for one of the top models from the PC series.
GIGAWATT PF-2 EVO 6x NZ outlets, filtering power strip. Diapason D’Or 23 Award RRP NZ$2,500+ incl GST
When listening, we can notice an increase in transparency and presence, or rather embodiment. Added to this is the increased spatiality. On good recordings, voices take on an almost holographic dimension.”
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Description text goes here
GIGAWATT PowerSync ULTRA Premium Power Cord
RRP NZ$1,995 (1.5m) incl GST
PowerSync ULTRA is designed for advanced audio systems. It improves the clarity and contours of the sound, especially in the bass range.. Due to its large cross-section it is particularly recommended for applications related to high power consumption.
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top LS series. LC-3-EVO---2_624
Conductors are made from 99,997% pure copper (OFHC C10100, 5N), additionally subdued to an annealing process, which allows them to gain uniform structure and better conductance.
The design is a 8x 1.5 mm2 lead, where each lead consist of 7 strands, spun in a tight pitch.
Twisted conductors ensure significant cable inductance reduction, maintaining favourable quite high self-capacitance.
The wires of the cable are protected by a static shield, made from laminated aluminum foil. The tight construction of the shield covers 100% of the surface of the cable, perfectly protecting against all kinds of external interference, and EMI and RFI noises.
In addition the shield prevents the appearance and spread of internal interferences as well as returns parasitic currents to the ground wire. In the construction of the cable a lot of attention was devoted to the reduction of the vibration created by the electromagnetic field induced around the conductors.
All wires and the shield are covered with elastic material damping the unwanted vibration. The cable is additionally protected from the outside with antistatic braid, which prevents static charges accumulation.
The PowerSync ULTRA uses the highest quality, company mains plugs. Their massive construction ensures extraordinary durability and reliability. Casing of the plugs is made of compact aluminium. Their solid connectors are made of rhodium plated brass , which guarantees low impedance and larger amount of connecting cycles with no parameters loss . Connectors were additionally subject to cryogenic treatment and de-magnetization. All conductors are connected with no use of tin, and plug connections are bolted which minimizes plug impedance and guarantees reliability.
Grimm Audio
Famous for their unique Hi-End - Music Servers / Streamers & Active Loudspeaker out of the Netherlands.
GRIMM MU1 music server less DAC
RRP NZ$23,995 incl GST
The MU1 music server less DAC is the ultimate digital music source. Combined with their LS1, or other high-end DACs it forms a peerlessly elegant High-End audio system.
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The MU1 is the ultimate digital music source. Combined with the LS1, it forms a peerlessly elegant High-End audio system.
We wanted to develop the most accurate audio source we could imagine. In our experience, the human hearing system shows an incredible sensitivity to anomalies. Even unimaginably small aberrations appear to be audible. In principle, digital audio does offer perfect reproduction. Its sonic quality, however, is limited by the implementation accuracy of the physical and mathematical laws that affect the conversion from one format to another. Grimm Audio strives to bring you confidence that all technical details are taken care of to the greatest extent so that the reproduction system steps out of the way of the music.
“The MU1 is the ultimate digital music source: attractive, reliable and precise”
With the MU1, our goal was to set a new benchmark in music player design. The Linux-based computer system brings solid data integrity. Our in-house-designed FPGA interface board, which forms the heart of the MU1, offers breakthrough performance levels in format conversion and receives automatic updates whenever we have pushed the boundaries again. Needless to say, the MU1 features our trademark ultra-low jitter clock. This is a music player worthy of the name Grimm Audio.
Once excellent sound quality is ensured, the quality of a music player is then defined by the user experience. For this, we partnered with Roon Labs, who in our opinion are in the lead when it comes to a rich and engaging music experience that appeals to your whole family. The MU1 runs the Roon Core server, so no extra installs are necessary. Just pick up your tablet and experience the music. For customers who prefer to only run a simple playback system without Roon’s extras, we will offer a solid alternative.
The MU1 combines seamlessly with the LS1 playback system. Of course, the virtues of the MU1 can also be realized with DACs from other manufacturers. Because we love to create a stunning look for our equipment, the boundlessly versatile system is housed in a cabinet of minimalistic elegance, so the MU1 will easily become the gem of your living room.
MU1 features
Roon Core and Roon End Point integrated
ultra high up- and downsampling precision
ultra low clock jitter
seamless integration with LS1 series
excellent source for 3rd party DACs
all sample rates and formats supported
surround playback option with 6 digital output channels
AES, spdif and optical digital stereo inputs
web control of setup via any browser
infrared remote control
external USB and NAS storage, optional internal SSD
Tidal and Qobuz support
355 x 85 x 295mm (WxHxD)
5 year limited warranty
GRIMM MU2 musicserver incl DAC
RRP $34,995 incl GST
“The MU2 music server incl DAC offers full integration of functions, from Roon to analog volume control, with revolutionary sound quality.”
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We are convinced that smart integration of functions yields higher audio quality. The MU2 combines a music streamer with a superb DAC and a reference quality analog pre amp. Its built-in DAC takes full advantage of the Grimm Audio low jitter clock and high performance FPGA processor. A relay based analog volume control enables the MU2 to become the true ‘hub’ of your hifi system for both digital and analog sources. Just like with its sister product, the ‘digital output’ MU1, a Roon Labs Core server is on board so no external computer is needed to enjoy perfect streaming.
“The MU2 offers full integration of functions, from Roon to analog volume control, with revolutionary sound quality.”
At the heart of the MU2, Grimm Audio’s proprietary Major DAC can be found. It is of a groundbreaking discrete design that makes optimal use of our own FPGA board. In a unique way our high resolution Pure Nyquist upsampling filters are combined with a fundamentally flawless 11th order noise shaper of 1.5 bit. If you like to read more about this technology, please check out the Major DAC blog.
As a result the MU2 reproduces micro-details so well that it allows a deep emotional connection to the musical performance. The stereo image is of groundbreaking quality. Its serenity invites prolonged listening sessions.
If you love your loudspeakers and power amplifiers but long for a fundamental update in sound quality and streamer experience, the MU2 is designed for you.
The MU2 has 2 stereo analog inputs and 3 stereo digital inputs. It has outputs on XLR and RCA, and headphones jack.
MU2 features
Roon Core and Roon End Point integrated
ultra low clock jitter
FPGA based discrete Major DAC
all sample rates and formats supported
relay based analog volume control
digital AES, spdif and optical inputs
analog XLR and RCA inputs
analog XLR and RCA outputs
headphone output
web control of setup via any browser
infrared remote control
external USB and NAS storage, optional internal SSD
Tidal and Qobuz support
355 x 85 x 295mm (WxHxD)
5 year limited warranty
Ikeda Sound Labs
Legendary Cartridges, Tonearms etc - from Japan
IKEDA Akiko MC cartridge
RRP NZ$9,995 incl GST
Premium model with diamond cantilever & titanium alloy body and special extremely high vibration absorption ability. Finished in pink gold with ion plating . IKEDA's technology soars through the past, present, and future, draws you into the heart of great music engraved on vinyl.
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Product name: Akiko
Power generation method: MC type
Output voltage: 0.35mV
Proper stylus pressure: 1.75-2.0g
Impedance: 6.0Ω
Mass: 15g
IKEDA 9TT MC cartridge
RRP NZ$3,750 incl GST
Standard model that achieves playback without unnecessary colouring. The body is precision machined aluminium alloy. It prevents resonance that causes muddy sound. The cantilever has a double structure made of hard aluminium alloy, and the stylus tip uses a line contact shape to bring out the charm of the music.
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Product name: IKEDA 9TT
Power generation method: MC type
Output voltage: 0.16mV
Proper stylus pressure: 1.8±0.2g
Impedance: 2.0Ω
Mass: 10g
IKEDA Trance SUT - Product of the Year Award
RRP NZ$3,995 incl GST
Step-up transformer for low impedance MC cartridges. This is a low-loss MC cartridge, precision machined from an aluminium block. A low impedance MC cartridge can demonstrate its true potential with a high quality transformer.
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Description text goes here
IKEDA IT-407 VTA CR-1 12” tonearm
RRP NZ $9,500 incl GST
Hybrid materials for the main parts and a spherical centre block, external influences are completely eliminated. A mirror-like chrome plating is applied to pursue IKEDA theory to the extreme. Maximise the expressive power of the cartridge.
This model includes VTA lifter
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Type: Dynamic Balance.
Overall Length: 388mm.
Effective Length: 307mm.
Overhang: 12mm.
Tracking Error: +2° - 0°35'
Stylus Force Range: 0g - 5g (in 0.5g step)
Mounting Hole Diameter: 31mm.
Arm Height Adjustment Range: 25mm - 60mm.
Innuos
Excellent, easy to use Music Servers - from England brand intro here
INNUOS Statement music server
from RRP NZ$26,000 incl GST
The InnuOS ZEN Statement Music Server, designed to take Digital Audio to a new level of performance.
A state-of-the-art source for the most discerning audiophiles.
Optional Next-Gen Power Supply Upgrade available as an option for both new or existing units.
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The Statement more than keeps a seat at the digital’s top table… it offers what must be the some of best balance between performance and price for that absolute pinnacle of high-end digital streaming and music serving can currently provide. And the app helps transform your relationship with the Statement too, making it an even more powerful addition to your system. It’s truly excellent!
INNUOS ZENmini Mk3 Music Server
from RRP NZ$2,700
The InnuOS ZENmini Mk3 Music Server is the gateway server with all the full benefits of innuOS, now with improved connectivity and an upgraded path for even greater flexibility. Ideal for simple integration into multi-room systems or for those making the first step to a dedicated audio server
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Is the Innuos Zen Mini Mk. 3 with LPSU the music server for me? Probably, although I wouldn’t mind exploring further up the line now that I have my bearings. I could also continue to explore DACs in the various price ranges, which I seem to be doing as we speak. The Zen Mini, however, was so enjoyable to have in the system that I’ll have to use it as a benchmark for everything else that comes along.
Here’s my wish: I could rip all my CDs—not every single one, of course, because like any large collection there’s just a ton of worthless garbage in there—and then sell my collection of CDs for enough money to buy the Innuos Zen Mini Mk.3. That sounds a lot like the deal I tried to make all those years ago, but now I feel as if much of the mystery of music servers has been solved for me and I wouldn’t go into the deal so blind. I’d do it gladly.
In other words, the Innuos Zen Mini Mk. III with the LPSU was the last hint I needed to enter a world without physical media, at least the digital kind. I see the path I need to travel with a little more clarity, and the Zen Mini is just the searchlight I needed.
INNUOS PhoenixNET audiophile-grade Network Switch
RRP NZ$6,400
The InnuOS Phoenix NET is designed from the ground up for network audio.
A completely new network switch design that focuses exclusively on audio use.
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Innuos PhoenixNET holds no jewelry status so won’t do any favors for your living room’s décor. It’s also not an ideal investment into affordable setups, which will benefit more from spending the extra €3’000 on better speakers, amp or DAC. Fully loaded six-figure streaming systems are a different story, however. Today’s Innuos will do an awful lot there and this is the target environment for it. That said, I was utterly surprised by how much additional performance this still compact modestly dressed box managed to squeeze from my own rig, just as its USB sibling more than two years ago. Let me stress that I’m fully aware that in theory network switches shouldn’t make any audible difference at all, but that’s just not my subjective experience. The way I see it, Innuos PhoenixNET fared brilliantly where it mattered most so did the exact opposite. That’s the takeaway and those who already consider such products meaningful will know what to do with it.
INNUOS Zen mk3 musc server
from RRP NZ$5,350
The InnuOS ZEN Mk3 Music Server is a true HiFi component for music enthusiasts who want to enjoy their large music libraries with a dedicated server delivering Hi-Fi quality, the ZEN Mk3 represents new value for money
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In the current world of premium, highly-priced enthusiast audiophile components, it is somewhat rare to work with a product like the Innuos Zen Mk.3 as it just does its job so wonderfully well and uncomplicated– indeed, you may be a bit flabbergasted at what you are getting vis-à-vis its price. ($2599 USD For a 1TB version). It does just about everything you will ever need combined in a neat, lovely, and self-effacing package.
Along with its ripping drive, fully embedded Roon platform, broad deference with other components, effortless operation, and extremely competitive price, The Zen Mk.3’s quality, and overall stability are firmly established.
Most importantly; it reproduces music and sound with the utmost authority, naturalness, and “live’ performance characteristics while exhibiting a sense of ease and distinct listening gratification. This music server simply puts a smile on your face as you listen to it perform. What else can anyone ask for? A spectacular value!
IsoAcoustics
Legendary Isolation devices - out of the pro-recording industry from Canada
IsoAcoustic Orea component isolation feet
from RRP NZ$99ea -$170ea
Orea Series audio component isolation feet, designed to eliminate parasitic vibrations and provide greater sound clarity and focus. Ideal for electronic components such as Amplifiers, DACs, CD Players, Speakers, and Turntables,
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The OREA pods are an interesting addition to my audio system. The benefits of having them under my signal sources are audible as are the gains in clarity, air and focus.
What needs to be pointed out is the fact these perceived differences are not overwhelmingly large. In truth, while the sonic benefits are worthwhile, they’re minimal compared to what can be delivered by acoustically treating a listening room.
So I liken the affordable OREA pods as the icing on the audio cake. In other words, they're a valuable addition whose importance grows after you've addressed your equipment rack and room acoustics.
Approached methodically rather than emotionally, the OREA isolator pods are a hell of an audio bargain and can be warmly recommended …..StereoNet
IsoAcoustics Aperta speaker isolation stands
from RRP NZ$320/pr - $500/pr
Aperta speaker isolation stands designed to manage the energy of the speaker and reduce vibrations resonating through the supporting surface to eliminate dissonant sounds in the listening area or joining rooms. Can be positioned on the floor, shelf, credenza, desktop or on a floor stand.
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Solidly built and oh so simple to install into your system (if you don’t want to mess around with tilting, you pick them out of the box and put them where you want them), the Aperta stands are, indeed, an upgrade for your current speaker stands and effective as near-field supports. That they improve the sound by less than dramatic leaps and bounds doesn’t hide the fact that sound quality is improved in a variety of areas. I would like to see more development of this stand (Using different materials perhaps?) to produce even more substantial and marked improvements.
IsoAcoustic Delos isolation platform stands
From RRP NZ$975 ro $1,500
Reveal the finer details from your records with our award-winning component & turntable isolation platforms. Combining the mass of a thick butcher block with IsoAcoustics patented isolation, DELOS provides a low noise floor by eliminating the effects of structure borne vibrations.”
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It is definitely gratifying that the news is not only an elegant addition, but really also functional, especially the improvement on bass and midrange is very clear and will support the performance of the fragile gramophone chain. At least for us, the contribution of both thicknesses of the DELOS base was so convincing that from now on both versions remain part of the editorial sets.”
IsoAcoustic Gaia speaker isolation feet
from RRP NZ$399/4pc - $1,100/4pc
Optimise audio quality with IsoAcoustics' GAIA series speaker isolation feet. Enhance clarity and bass for discerning audiophiles. Explore our range. The sound stage blossoms to open up a three-dimensional image of natural, spatial sound.
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The aspect of a speaker's sound that I value most highly is its ability not to sound like a speaker—a lack of "speaker sound." In my review of the Platinum PL300 II, I praised it for its low level of speaker sound. Well, with the Gaia Is installed, the PL300 II had even less speaker sound, perhaps an effect of the Gaias' attenuation of the speaker's spurious resonances. I heard more of the music and less of the speaker. Not only that—instruments and voices were more precisely defined on the soundstage, which itself was wider and higher.A remarkable product….. Robert Deutsch - Stereophile
Karan Acoustics
Award wining excellence, Master Class, class-A Amplifiers that are seriously rewarding - from Belgrade in Serbia
Karan Acoustics Master Collection PHONOa phonostage
RRP NZ$57,995
This is the best phono stage I’ve heard, and by no small margin. none make it sound quite as ‘right’ as the Master Collection PHONOa.
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There is so much more to say about the Karan Master Collection PHONOa at NZ$57,995, but it’s just more of the same. This is the best phono stage I’ve heard, and by no small margin. Sure, there are some remarkable phono stages, and many make music sound fabulous, but none make it sound quite as ‘right’ as the PHONOa. Honest without brutality, detailed without edginess or etched sound, tonally perfect, dynamically unparalleled and producing a soundstage that is only constrained by the record before it and the system afterwards. This is how music should sound through the very best of the best. ………HiFi+, Alan Sircom - Feb 23
KARAN ACOUSTICS Master Collection POWERa stereo
RRP NZ$ TBA
The final result amplifiers of, unsurpassed natural musicality, transparency, dynamic headroom, transient speed, vanishingly low noise floor, and utterly lifelike.
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Milan Karan knows only too well that all the academic perfection he has been putting into his creations for more than 20 years, is of no ultimate value unless the resulting sound did not noticeably improve on what has become a trade-mark of the Karan Acoustics brand. Hundreds of ours of listening tests and fine tuning of all crucial components within the audio and power supply circuits have taken place…the final result are audio amplifiers of, in our view, unsurpassed natural musicality, transparency, dynamic headroom, transient speed, vanishingly low noise floor, and utterly lifelike, almost physically tangible, 3D holographic palpability.
Specs !nputs: 2x balanced (XLR) and 2x unbalanced (RCA) Power output: 2×650w @ 8ohm / 2×1.100w @ 4ohm / 2×1.800w @ 2ohm (peak power output: 800W at 8ohm) Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +/-0 dB; (DC to 300kHz, -3 dB) Power supply: 2pcs of 2.100VA low noise toroidal transformers, 210.000uF custom made capacitors bank Dimensions: 504Wx292Hx603D mm Weight: 105kg Warranty: 5 years, parts and labor
KARAN ACOUSTICS Master Collection POWERa monoblock
RRP NZ$135,995/pr incl GST
The Master Collection POWERa mono power amplifiers. They are the best amplifiers I have heard.
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This amplifier’s power output is impressive even by the brute-force standards of some of the biggest big hitters. It puts out an impressive 2,150W into eight ohms and pulls up to 6kW into two ohms, it means the amps will deliver the signal’s total bandwidth and dynamic headroom into any loudspeaker load while delivering the potential for excellent transient speed and extremely silent circuit operation. There are some exceptional amplifiers on the market at the top end, and there’s a solid argument to say there’s one no one path up that mountain (the long-winded version of YMMV: ‘Your Mileage May Vary’). But there is a personal path up that mountain, and for me, that means the NZ$135,995/pr Karan Acoustics Master Collection POWERa mono power amplifiers. They are the best amplifiers I have heard so far. ………HiFi+, Alan Sircom - Jul 22
KARAN ACOUSTICS Master Collection LINEa preamplifier
RRP NZ$52,995 incl GST
A preamplifier that carves out its own niche as the best choice for the widest number of listeners. I can’t help but think the LINEa ticks that box brilliantly.
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There’s a category error made by some, in thinking that because well-recorded acoustic instruments in a live space is an audiophile Gold Standard, that’s all good audio can do. However, the same goose-bumps moments apply equally to everything from electronica to hard rock, too. Of course, to fully realise that goal, you need a preamp as musically honest as the LINEa.I feel the Karan Acoustics LINEa is the perhaps the most approachable and universal of the ultra-preamplifiers. That could have gone one of two ways; the preamplifier that the highest of high-end respected… as they were buying another preamplifier, or a preamplifier that carves out its own niche as the best choice for the widest number of listeners. I can’t help but think the LINEa ticks that second box brilliantly. If a NZ$52,995 preamp could be called ‘the preamp of the people’, the Karan Acoustics LINEa is that preamp! ……….HiFi+, Alan Sircom - June 20
KARAN ACOUSTICS Master Collection PHONOb phonostage
RRP NZ$ TBA
The more I played records the more records I wanted to play. The PHONOb is extremely impressive, it is a phono stage suited for long-haul listening. It is truly exceptional.
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March 23The more I played records through the PHONOb, the more records I wanted to play. The more albums I wanted to hear renewed and played through that astonishingly quiet background. Yes, some of that wanting to hear more is down to the extraordinary levels of detail and soundstage retrieval it has, and that detail – along with the even more powerful dynamic range – are the only notable concessions the PHONOb gives to its bigger brother. in terms of outright sound quality, the PHONOb is extremely impressive delivering close to 85% of the sonic performance of the PHONOa, giving that last scintilla of detail, dynamic range, and transparency to its bigger brother. In fact, by pulling back from the near ‘information overload’ of the PHONOa, The PHONOb is a phono stage better suited for long-haul listening. Given that’s the PHONOa we’re talking about, the PHONOb is far removed from a ‘stripped down’ model. To have one world-class phono stage in your line up is rare; to have two is exceptional, and the Karan Acoustics Master Reference PHONOb is truly exceptional ………HiFi+, Alan Sircom -
Kirmuss Audio
The Ultimate & Affordable, Ultrasonic LP Cleaning & Restoration machine - from England
KIRMUSS RC1 Ultrasonic record cleaning & restoration machine
RRP NZ$2,750
When a record cleaning device attracts this much attention around the world, you would expect that it must be for good reason however the Record Cleaning and Restoration System developed by Charles Kirmuss has been universally lauded as ‘revolutionary’.
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At just under NZ$2,7500 the Kirmuss is not really an impulse buy, but for anyone serious about vinyl I would say it solves the cleaning issue very elegantly. If you were very strict with yourself and made sure that every record that you bought was cleaned straight away (even new ones) I am sure that it would prolong the life of both your records and your cartridge. For a professional second-hand record dealer, I would say it would be an essential piece of kit as it does transform dirty records. Once you get a feel for the process it is very, very simple and as it is very ‘hands on’ you know that your precious records are being taken care of, there is nothing to worry about as you are in complete control and can see what is happening all the time.
Kiseki
Phono Cartridges., "A MIRACLE", hand-built beauty, evokes adjectives normally reserved for art or jewellery "mystique, "masterpiece" - Japan
KISEKI Purpleheart N.S. M/C phono cartridge
RRP POA
The Kiseki PurpleHeart N.S. is a legendary cartridge with a pedigree that spans three continents returns to the marketplace and to audiophiles everywhere, thanks to some fantastic entrepreneurs who believe in the LP!
The Kiseki N.S. (stands for “New Style”) has been renewed, improved, upgraded, and perfected.
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The Kiseki PurpleHeart N.S. Phono Cartridge truly is an outstanding cartridge, excelling to the limits of perfection in several parameters, and merely excellent in all others. There is no other cartridge in its price range that can shine its stylus or bring such truthfulness to the reproduction of LPs. I am gob smacked by how it reproduces music like the real performance. It gives you a big taste of reel-to-reel tape sound without having to buy a RTR machine. Its utter lack of identifiable colorations put it in a league of its own.
KISEKI Blue N.S. M/C phono cartridge
RRP POA
The Kiseki Blue NS iNew Style). The body is machined out of solid aluminium, the motor is built from best available parts. 2 years of experimenting, testing all possible choices of materials and techniques resulted in a better new Kiseki Blue. A Kiseki Blue which surpasses the results of the original Blue from the 80’s ánd of the more recent Kiseki Blue N.O.S.
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Hi-Fi News Verdict……
Kiseki’s Blue N.S., despite alleged ‘newness’, is – as editor PM says – ‘old school’. For plenty of you, that’s high praise. Along with Ortofon SPUs, EMTs, Denon 103s and other long-lived yet current MCs, with lush sound and massive soundstages, it’s a perfect alternative to seeking out a 30- or 40-year-old MC in mint condition. The N.S. sounds faster than the N.O.S., if slightly less elegant, but at this price? A success.
Krell
“The ORIGINAL" - class-A, iBias Amplifiers, AV Processor & Streamer DAC- made in the USA
KRELL KMA-i800 Monoblock power amplifier
RRP NZ$139,995/pr
The KMA-i800 is a state-of-the-art 800 watt monaural amplifier. It incorporates Krell’s most advanced circuit topologies and Krell’s proprietary technologies iBias, XD, and Sym-Max. This gives the KMA-i800 a warm enveloping three-dimensional sound with unparalleled detail, along with the rock-solid bottom end and effortlessness that Krell is known for.
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I greatly enjoyed my time with the Krell KMA-i800 monoblock power amplifiers. While I doubt I used more than a fraction of the amplifiers' 1600W into 4 ohms, they delivered sound whose fullness, dynamic range, speed, clarity, and resolution rivaled that of the finest amplifiers I've been privileged to review. Without question, they are a top-rank product. For audiophiles with a sufficient budget who love to wrap themselves in a warm envelope of detailed sound and revel in the glories that fine artists can create and capture on a recording, they are a must hear.
KRELL KSA-i400 Stereo power amplifier
RRP NZ$69,995
The KSA-i400 is a state-of-the-art 400 watt/channel stereo amplifier. It incorporates Krell’s most advanced circuit topologies and Krell’s proprietary technologies iBias, XD, and Sym-Max. This gives the KSA-i400 an organic, spacious, and detailed presentation along with the rock-solid bottom end and effortlessness that Krell is known for.
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Hi-Fi News Verdict
OK, so it takes a bit of level before this Krell power amp gets into its stride, and at late night background levels it can even sound a shade passive, but give it its head and it combines with the relatively simple Illusion II preamp to deliver a compelling, satisfying sound that's as informative as it is hard-charging. Behind all that high-level swagger is a design as much about micro-dynamics and detail as it is a wall-shaker.
KRELL Illusion II Preamplifier
RRP NZ$21,500
The Illusion II is the perfect centerpiece for world class digital & analog systems. Added to the normal selection of balanced and single- ended inputs are 5 digital inputs. AES/EBU, coaxial, and optical digital inputs for use with streaming devices or other digital sources.
“… I loved iI’s sound, I never found it harsh, edgy, or bright. Bass sounded full-bodied, keyboards spacious, and guitar had lots of body and soul….”
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“… I loved about the Illusion II's sound was that I never found it harsh, edgy, or bright. Bass sounded appropriately full-bodied, keyboards suitably spacious, and guitar had lots of body and soul…just as it should.”
On another track, James Taylor’s “Her Town Too,” there was no fall-off in transparency or pleasure. Once again, the sound was open and revealing, with every bit of post-production reverb exposed. I just loved listening to this system.
KRELL K300i Integrated amp
RRP NZ$17,995 - $19500
Krell K-300i Integrated Stereo amp is available in 2 versions: Analog style or digital style with optional digital streaming module for connecting to digital streaming sources.
The K-300i incorporates Krell iBias™ technology, delivering 150w/Ch 8Ω and 300w/Ch into 4Ω. iBias provides the sonic benefits of Class A without the excessive heat and power of traditional Class A design.
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Rather than being randomly thrown together because UK distributor Absolute Sounds happens to deal with both Krell and Magico, this particular pairing was personally put together by Ricardo Franassovici because of the synergy between the amp and speakers. It's clear to me that he obviously spent a good amount of time listening to it because it works exceedingly well together. Although very expensive by most people's standards at a whisker under £21,000, I've heard systems at five times the price that struggle to sound as musically involving. This goes to show the importance of synergy – and of course, actually listening to different combinations of products, too. So if you're looking out for a compact high-end system that's capable of dynamite performance, this is definitely one to hear.