Sydney Audio Club Meeting - November 2024
Sunday 10th November: The November Meeting will welcome back Cameron Keating, from MAXMEDIA (Melbourne) who will introduce the innuos NEXT GEN music servers and streamers, together with a FEZZ Equinox Prestige DAC and AVANTGARDE ACOUSTIC COLIBRI C2 speakers, via a Circle Labs Preamp and Amplifier.
Cameron will also be introducing the visiting innuos specialist, Yaohan Yang, who will conduct a 'Tech Talk' on Innuos - The NEXT GEN.
The doors will be open from mid-day to meet and chat with members before the Tech Talk commences from 12:30pm, followed by the meeting and music sessions from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
Dear members and friends of Sydney Audio Club Inc.
The next Sydney Audio Club meeting on the 10th of November promises to be an exciting event, featuring the launch of Innuos's NEXT GEN products in Australia. The meeting will be presented by Cameron Keating from Maxmedia and will also provide a rare opportunity for members to meet Yaohan Yang, one of the talented designers behind Innuos’s innovative range. Join us for an engaging afternoon filled with cutting-edge audio technology and the chance to connect with industry expertise!
The doors will be open from around 12:00 pm to meet and chat with members before the TechTalk, titled “Innuos - The NEXT GEN”, starts at 12:30 pm. The TechTalk will comprise of Yaohan giving an insightful talk about the Innuos company, sharing their journey and commitment to high-quality audio. He will then delve into the company’s product portfolio before introducing the NEXT GEN range of products, detailing their impressive features and benefits. This will be a fantastic opportunity to gain a better understanding of Innuos's vision and how their latest innovations can elevate your listening experience.
If you happen to be late just quietly slide into a seat and join the discussion. As our club is based on mutual respect, especially in these open presentations, let us remain respectful towards one another’s views and opinions.
There will be a short break after the TechTalk before the meeting starts again around 2:00 pm. Shortly after the break, Cameron will perform a demonstration, comparing two streamers at different price points to highlight the differences that can exist between different models, in features as well as in sound.
Following this, we will have another short break before resuming the second half of the meeting. Guests are welcome – we are a very friendly club so you don't need to know anyone to join us for an afternoon of fine music and sound.
Details of the system for November 10:
Innuos Pulse Mini (Streamer 1): Getting the most enjoyment out of your favorite music is now within reach with the PULSEmini. Whether you’re just getting started exploring HiFi quality audio, or you’re looking for the convenience of expanding your existing HiFi setup to include streaming in new locations, PULSEmini is the perfect place to start. The Pulse Mini is entry-level streamer from Innuos. INNUOS PULSE PAGE | Maxmedia
Innuos Next Gen Zen (Streamer 2) and Next Gen ZENith (Streamer 3): The ZEN Next-Gen is the first model within the ZEN Series to include both new and trickled-down NG technology developments: our new cutting-edge Gallium Nitride regulated NGaN RECAP2 PSU, the new PreciseAudio custom mainboard, Sense 3 with real-time kernel together with AudioCore technology, selected industrial-grade low noise DDR4 RAM and a dedicated, direct-attached, ultra-low noise SSD for the Operating System to name just a few. Connect the ZEN Next-Gen to your DAC and be amazed at the difference.
The ZENith NEXT GEN further elevates audio and processing performance with NGaN-regulated ARC6 power supply with active rectification and over 130000uF of Mundorf capacitors, as well as an 8 physical core processor for AudioCore. This is complemented by the use of a pSLC SSD for Sense 3, ensuring ultra-low noise operation and extended durability.
INNUOS ZEN NG ZENITH NG | Maxmedia
Fezz Equinox Prestige DAC (Balanced version): Equinox Prestige is the world’s only balanced Lampizator-licensed vacuum tube D/A converter designed by Łukasz Fikus. It is also the most affordable D/A converter on the market with the Lampizator logo. The unit is based on PCM1794 chipset and a two 12AU7 vacuum tubes. Fezz/Toroidy engineers designed a dedicated, highest quality Supreme class toroidal power transformer for the Equinox Prestige power supply. The device is equipped with 2 Toslink, 1 coaxial, and 1 USB digital signal input. Additionally, it features balanced XLR outputs, which are designed to deliver pristine audio quality with excellent noise rejection. These outputs are ideal for connecting to high-end audio systems and professional equipment, ensuring that your sound remains pure and interference-free. Thanks to the easily accessible tube, located under the sliding plexiglass on the top panel, the unit offers the opportunity to create and adjust the sound tone according to your preferences by replacing the tube without any hassle. FEZZ 2024 | Maxmedia
Specifications:
Type: Balanced D/A converter empowered by Lampizator
Model: Equinox Prestige EVO D/A converter empowered by Lampizator
Tube type: 2 x ECC82/12AU7
Digital inputs: USB type B, 2x S/PDIF, Coaxial
Output: 1 x RCA, 1 x XLR
Operation amplifier: Burr Brown PCM 1794
S/PDIF Receiver: Asahi Kasei AKM4118
Oversampling: No
Net weight: 8 kg
Dimensions: 355 x 380 x 100 mm
Avantgarde Acoustic Colibri C2 Loudspeakers: The goal in designing the Colibri was to create an ultra-high performance loudspeaker that delivers incredible performance in a small package, reproducing music with the lowest levels of distortion technologically possible. A compact speaker that combines audiophile sound quality and professional super performance, far outperforming even much larger speakers. With this in mind, they have developed a radically uncompromising concept that has never been seen before. COLIBRI | Maxmedia
Specifications:
2-way full range horn speaker system: 70 - 19,000 Hz
Capacity: 150 watt
System efficiency: 98 dB
Max. Sound level: 117 dB
Compact dimensions: 66 x 33 x 30 cm
Ultra light driver technology Mid/High: 1.5 inch
Ultra light driver technology Bass: 6.5 inch
Horn configuration Mid/High: 350 mm spherical horn
Horn configuration Bass: 1.800 cm² bass blades
Crossover frequencies: 70/700 Hz
Circle Labs P300 Pre-amplifier: The P300 preamplifier is a fully balanced design. The creation of the P300 was inspired by the idea of a preamplifier that is truly neutral with the shortest possible signal path. Inner cabling was strictly limited. It was designed around the newest JFET and BJT transistor types and uses a proprietary Circle Amp topology. Volume is controlled by a relay operated resistor ladder and offers 63 step resolution. An aluminum remote is supplied. We designed a specially built, low noise power supply based on two independent channel transformers with LL cores and Elma SILMIC II capacitors. The power supply has two cascading steps of stabilisation. The stabilisers use an LED matrix as a source of reference current, characterised by remarkably lower noise than traditional merged Zener diodes. The frieze-finished aluminium 5754 casing is crafted using digital CNC machines. Circle Labs | Maxmedia
Specifications:
Line inputs: 2 x XLR, 3 x RCA
Line outputs: 2 x XLR
Input impedance: 33 kΩ RCA, 66 kΩ XLR
Output Impedance: 15 Ω
Reinforcement: 8 dB
Frequency response: 2Hz-500kHz (-3db)
Size (W x D x H): 430 x 342 x 127 mm
Net weight: 10.6 kg
Circle Labs M200 Power Amplifier: The M200 is a true dual-mono stereophonic power amplifier that can optionally become a fully balanced monoblock. NOS Seimens triodes from the 1960s were used in the design of the amplification path and individual pieces are selected with utmost care. Input stage uniquely gains stable polarity from a battery source, which allows it to use only one vacuum tube, one resistor, and one premium quality Mundorf silver-gold signal capacitor; this solution provides a very short signal path with the best possible parameters. Circle Power current steps are closest to the topology of single-ended amplifiers, while retaining maximum efficiency and power. Detail and timbre, characteristic of single-ended amplifiers, is joined by high efficiency amplifier bass control. Highest spec Sanken current-coupled bipolar transistors in the current amplifcation stage allow the M200 to have even more detailed, dynamic speaker control and an ultra wide frequency response. Separate toroidal transformers are included for all channels and built to our unique specification using the highest quality materials. A separate copper-insulated EI core transformer and completely separate power supply paths are used for both channels in the vacuum tube stage. The power amplifier stage uses high current capacitors with a combined capacitance of 200,000 µF. WBT Nextgen terminals provide signal to connected loudspeakers - Hifi Knights Review Circle Labs P300 M200
Specifications:
Output power (stereo mode): 160W/8Ω, 300W/4Ω
Output power (monoblock mode): 600W/8Ω, 930W/4Ω
Frequency Response: 2Hz - 1MHz (-3 dB)
Input Sensitivity: 35 dB
Input Impedance: 100 kΩ
Size (W x D x H): 430 x 355 x 178 mm
Net Weight: 20 kg
Subwoofer: Single 15” Revel 15A
Cables:
• Viablue SC-6 Loudspeaker Cables
• Viablue Interconnect Cables
Cameron will also be introducing the visiting innuos specialist, Yaohan Yang, who will conduct a 'Tech Talk' on Innuos - The NEXT GEN.
The doors will be open from mid-day to meet and chat with members before the Tech Talk commences from 12:30pm, followed by the meeting and music sessions from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
Dear members and friends of Sydney Audio Club Inc.
The next Sydney Audio Club meeting on the 10th of November promises to be an exciting event, featuring the launch of Innuos's NEXT GEN products in Australia. The meeting will be presented by Cameron Keating from Maxmedia and will also provide a rare opportunity for members to meet Yaohan Yang, one of the talented designers behind Innuos’s innovative range. Join us for an engaging afternoon filled with cutting-edge audio technology and the chance to connect with industry expertise!
The doors will be open from around 12:00 pm to meet and chat with members before the TechTalk, titled “Innuos - The NEXT GEN”, starts at 12:30 pm. The TechTalk will comprise of Yaohan giving an insightful talk about the Innuos company, sharing their journey and commitment to high-quality audio. He will then delve into the company’s product portfolio before introducing the NEXT GEN range of products, detailing their impressive features and benefits. This will be a fantastic opportunity to gain a better understanding of Innuos's vision and how their latest innovations can elevate your listening experience.
If you happen to be late just quietly slide into a seat and join the discussion. As our club is based on mutual respect, especially in these open presentations, let us remain respectful towards one another’s views and opinions.
There will be a short break after the TechTalk before the meeting starts again around 2:00 pm. Shortly after the break, Cameron will perform a demonstration, comparing two streamers at different price points to highlight the differences that can exist between different models, in features as well as in sound.
Following this, we will have another short break before resuming the second half of the meeting. Guests are welcome – we are a very friendly club so you don't need to know anyone to join us for an afternoon of fine music and sound.
Details of the system for November 10:
Innuos Pulse Mini (Streamer 1): Getting the most enjoyment out of your favorite music is now within reach with the PULSEmini. Whether you’re just getting started exploring HiFi quality audio, or you’re looking for the convenience of expanding your existing HiFi setup to include streaming in new locations, PULSEmini is the perfect place to start. The Pulse Mini is entry-level streamer from Innuos. INNUOS PULSE PAGE | Maxmedia
Innuos Next Gen Zen (Streamer 2) and Next Gen ZENith (Streamer 3): The ZEN Next-Gen is the first model within the ZEN Series to include both new and trickled-down NG technology developments: our new cutting-edge Gallium Nitride regulated NGaN RECAP2 PSU, the new PreciseAudio custom mainboard, Sense 3 with real-time kernel together with AudioCore technology, selected industrial-grade low noise DDR4 RAM and a dedicated, direct-attached, ultra-low noise SSD for the Operating System to name just a few. Connect the ZEN Next-Gen to your DAC and be amazed at the difference.
The ZENith NEXT GEN further elevates audio and processing performance with NGaN-regulated ARC6 power supply with active rectification and over 130000uF of Mundorf capacitors, as well as an 8 physical core processor for AudioCore. This is complemented by the use of a pSLC SSD for Sense 3, ensuring ultra-low noise operation and extended durability.
INNUOS ZEN NG ZENITH NG | Maxmedia
Fezz Equinox Prestige DAC (Balanced version): Equinox Prestige is the world’s only balanced Lampizator-licensed vacuum tube D/A converter designed by Łukasz Fikus. It is also the most affordable D/A converter on the market with the Lampizator logo. The unit is based on PCM1794 chipset and a two 12AU7 vacuum tubes. Fezz/Toroidy engineers designed a dedicated, highest quality Supreme class toroidal power transformer for the Equinox Prestige power supply. The device is equipped with 2 Toslink, 1 coaxial, and 1 USB digital signal input. Additionally, it features balanced XLR outputs, which are designed to deliver pristine audio quality with excellent noise rejection. These outputs are ideal for connecting to high-end audio systems and professional equipment, ensuring that your sound remains pure and interference-free. Thanks to the easily accessible tube, located under the sliding plexiglass on the top panel, the unit offers the opportunity to create and adjust the sound tone according to your preferences by replacing the tube without any hassle. FEZZ 2024 | Maxmedia
Specifications:
Type: Balanced D/A converter empowered by Lampizator
Model: Equinox Prestige EVO D/A converter empowered by Lampizator
Tube type: 2 x ECC82/12AU7
Digital inputs: USB type B, 2x S/PDIF, Coaxial
Output: 1 x RCA, 1 x XLR
Operation amplifier: Burr Brown PCM 1794
S/PDIF Receiver: Asahi Kasei AKM4118
Oversampling: No
Net weight: 8 kg
Dimensions: 355 x 380 x 100 mm
Avantgarde Acoustic Colibri C2 Loudspeakers: The goal in designing the Colibri was to create an ultra-high performance loudspeaker that delivers incredible performance in a small package, reproducing music with the lowest levels of distortion technologically possible. A compact speaker that combines audiophile sound quality and professional super performance, far outperforming even much larger speakers. With this in mind, they have developed a radically uncompromising concept that has never been seen before. COLIBRI | Maxmedia
Specifications:
2-way full range horn speaker system: 70 - 19,000 Hz
Capacity: 150 watt
System efficiency: 98 dB
Max. Sound level: 117 dB
Compact dimensions: 66 x 33 x 30 cm
Ultra light driver technology Mid/High: 1.5 inch
Ultra light driver technology Bass: 6.5 inch
Horn configuration Mid/High: 350 mm spherical horn
Horn configuration Bass: 1.800 cm² bass blades
Crossover frequencies: 70/700 Hz
Circle Labs P300 Pre-amplifier: The P300 preamplifier is a fully balanced design. The creation of the P300 was inspired by the idea of a preamplifier that is truly neutral with the shortest possible signal path. Inner cabling was strictly limited. It was designed around the newest JFET and BJT transistor types and uses a proprietary Circle Amp topology. Volume is controlled by a relay operated resistor ladder and offers 63 step resolution. An aluminum remote is supplied. We designed a specially built, low noise power supply based on two independent channel transformers with LL cores and Elma SILMIC II capacitors. The power supply has two cascading steps of stabilisation. The stabilisers use an LED matrix as a source of reference current, characterised by remarkably lower noise than traditional merged Zener diodes. The frieze-finished aluminium 5754 casing is crafted using digital CNC machines. Circle Labs | Maxmedia
Specifications:
Line inputs: 2 x XLR, 3 x RCA
Line outputs: 2 x XLR
Input impedance: 33 kΩ RCA, 66 kΩ XLR
Output Impedance: 15 Ω
Reinforcement: 8 dB
Frequency response: 2Hz-500kHz (-3db)
Size (W x D x H): 430 x 342 x 127 mm
Net weight: 10.6 kg
Circle Labs M200 Power Amplifier: The M200 is a true dual-mono stereophonic power amplifier that can optionally become a fully balanced monoblock. NOS Seimens triodes from the 1960s were used in the design of the amplification path and individual pieces are selected with utmost care. Input stage uniquely gains stable polarity from a battery source, which allows it to use only one vacuum tube, one resistor, and one premium quality Mundorf silver-gold signal capacitor; this solution provides a very short signal path with the best possible parameters. Circle Power current steps are closest to the topology of single-ended amplifiers, while retaining maximum efficiency and power. Detail and timbre, characteristic of single-ended amplifiers, is joined by high efficiency amplifier bass control. Highest spec Sanken current-coupled bipolar transistors in the current amplifcation stage allow the M200 to have even more detailed, dynamic speaker control and an ultra wide frequency response. Separate toroidal transformers are included for all channels and built to our unique specification using the highest quality materials. A separate copper-insulated EI core transformer and completely separate power supply paths are used for both channels in the vacuum tube stage. The power amplifier stage uses high current capacitors with a combined capacitance of 200,000 µF. WBT Nextgen terminals provide signal to connected loudspeakers - Hifi Knights Review Circle Labs P300 M200
Specifications:
Output power (stereo mode): 160W/8Ω, 300W/4Ω
Output power (monoblock mode): 600W/8Ω, 930W/4Ω
Frequency Response: 2Hz - 1MHz (-3 dB)
Input Sensitivity: 35 dB
Input Impedance: 100 kΩ
Size (W x D x H): 430 x 355 x 178 mm
Net Weight: 20 kg
Subwoofer: Single 15” Revel 15A
Cables:
• Viablue SC-6 Loudspeaker Cables
• Viablue Interconnect Cables
The second half of the music session is designed to help you evaluate the system with music that you are familiar with. All members and guests are welcome to offer music to share with us all. For this meeting you may bring some music via USB or request a track via streaming (Qobuz). Please note that as this meeting is about streaming, we will not be playing any CDs this month. We will also have a sheet of paper where members can request a track to be played (limit of 1 track request per member) and 10 of those tracks will be randomly selected for play.
All we ask is that the music and recordings be interesting. We'll ask you to tell us a little about the artist/recording before it is played. Tracks over 6 minutes will be faded out, to give everyone a fair go. We will also have a club member act as Disc Jockey for this session.
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned veteran, you will have the opportunity to listen, learn and share your experiences with others. Feel free to come and hear the capabilities of the system, or to just share the experience with like-minded music lovers in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Guests are welcome – we are a very friendly club so you don't need to know anyone to join us for an afternoon of fine music and sound.
Please bring your music to share with other club members.
Venue: Mathews Room, Epping Creative Centre, Dence Park
Address: 26 Stanley Road, Epping
When: Sunday 10th November
Doors open from 12.00 pm to meet and chat with members, TechTalk starts at 12:30pm, break around 1:30pm, Music Presentation starts around 2:00 pm. We will also have a second break at 3:30pm. Meeting finishes at 5pm. If you need to stretch your legs during the afternoon please wait for a break between tracks to prevent any interference with other members’ enjoyment.
To our guests, we respect the music being played so please refrain from talking while the music is on. You will find there are chances for plenty of happy banter between tracks.
It is a requirement of entry that you sign-in in the visitors’ book. You are not required to wear a mask but you may wish to do so.
Hope to see you there on Sunday 10th.
Jacob Kurniawan
Acting Meeting Co-ordinator
Sydney Audio Club Inc.
E: [email protected]
W: http://www.sydneyaudioclub.org/
FB: <https://www.facebook.com/sydneyaudioclub>
All we ask is that the music and recordings be interesting. We'll ask you to tell us a little about the artist/recording before it is played. Tracks over 6 minutes will be faded out, to give everyone a fair go. We will also have a club member act as Disc Jockey for this session.
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned veteran, you will have the opportunity to listen, learn and share your experiences with others. Feel free to come and hear the capabilities of the system, or to just share the experience with like-minded music lovers in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Guests are welcome – we are a very friendly club so you don't need to know anyone to join us for an afternoon of fine music and sound.
Please bring your music to share with other club members.
Venue: Mathews Room, Epping Creative Centre, Dence Park
Address: 26 Stanley Road, Epping
When: Sunday 10th November
Doors open from 12.00 pm to meet and chat with members, TechTalk starts at 12:30pm, break around 1:30pm, Music Presentation starts around 2:00 pm. We will also have a second break at 3:30pm. Meeting finishes at 5pm. If you need to stretch your legs during the afternoon please wait for a break between tracks to prevent any interference with other members’ enjoyment.
To our guests, we respect the music being played so please refrain from talking while the music is on. You will find there are chances for plenty of happy banter between tracks.
It is a requirement of entry that you sign-in in the visitors’ book. You are not required to wear a mask but you may wish to do so.
Hope to see you there on Sunday 10th.
Jacob Kurniawan
Acting Meeting Co-ordinator
Sydney Audio Club Inc.
E: [email protected]
W: http://www.sydneyaudioclub.org/
FB: <https://www.facebook.com/sydneyaudioclub>