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Are you
still playing to CD? If you, like me, still do, then you will find this
offering from Telarc exciting. Telarc is the recording label known to produce albums of excellent recording quality with great dynamic range, many of which are
perennial reference demo discs for audiophiles.
I
discovered on my usual go-to site for classical CDs, Prestomusic.com, that
Telarc has some of their CDs packaged as boxsets. The pricing is a great
bargain, at GBP16.46 (MYR89) for a pack of 5 albums it is just about what
we’d pay for just 1 Telarc CD here. Each CD works out to MYR18, plus postage,
it is cheaper than buying used.
The CDs are labelled as either “Made in EU” or “Made in Austria”, and each CD comes in a cardboard jacket with the original CD's cover art, no jewel case here. One disadvantage is that you don’t
get the CD liner notes, but if you are building up your CD library, this is a
quick and cost effective way to go. .
Since I
already own the “Ein Straussfest” album on a single CD (made in USA), I did a sound
quality comparison between the 2 versions. The single CD version has a slightly
more open sound on the top, while the boxset version sounded a little warmer,
nothing to lose sleep over. I wouldn’t be able to tell if I walked into the
room not knowing which version was playing.
While you
are on Prestomusic.com, check out the other offers they have on classical music
and jazz. They offer music downloads and streaming subscription too.
The WAVE 2025 Show (10/10/25-12/10/25) has concluded. Here, in no particular order, are the five systems that impressed me most.
1.The Majestic Statement : MSB, Vitus, Marten
The Swedish Statement room was a clear crowd-pleaser. It must be one of the most popular room at the Show and had gone onto the favorite list of many of my HiFi buddies. The combination of MSB and Vitus electronics driving Marten Mingus Septet loudspeakers was quite spectacular. Playing in a large conference room, the system showed exquisite refinement and effortless resolution. At the same time it delivered a room-filling soundstage and immense scale. Whatever acoustic challenges there might be in such a big room, the musical enjoyment delivered by this system was never diminished, It was a performance that appealed to both the head and the heart.
2.Italian Soul, Swiss Precision: Nagra and Sonus Faber
Perfect HiFi showcased the new Sonus Faber Amati Supreme loudspeakers, with technology adopted from its flagship loudspeaker the Suprema in the mid and high sections. Paired with Nagra's impeccable electronics, the system showcased Sonus Faber's legendary musicality - especially a midrange that rendered vocals that were beguiling and palpable. Yet it could unleash dynamics and scale when the music called for, proving itself to be quite the all-rounder.
3.A Refined Partnership: Luxman and Audiovector
Audio Perfectionistacquired the distributorship of Luxman recently. This is the first time I heard the Luxman-Audiovector combination, and the synergy between them was a delightful surprise.. This system, consisting of Luxman electronics and Audovector R6 Arrete loudspeakers, wasn't the type that shout for attention, it did not highlighting certain aspects of the sound to grab the listeners’ attention, instead it invited deep listening. The sound was refined, nimble, and highly resolved, allowing the music to unfold naturally and reveal its details at its own pace.
Worthy of mention too was the Audivector flagship R10 Arrete loudspeakers paired with Soulution amplification in a bigger adjacent room. They sounded formidable, though I found myself personally drawn to the more intimate and utterly coherent performance of the Luxman and Audiovector R6 Arrete combination just a tad more.
4.Unbridled Power: ATC
Many exhibitors focused on delivering refinement and smoothness from their sysems, in contrast HiWay Laser's demonstration of ATC gear was a thrilling jolt of raw energy. The ATC SCA2 preamplifier and SCM100ASL active loudspeakers delivered music with unbridled impact and lightning-fast dynamics. This system wasn't just playing music; it was recreating the visceral excitement of a live performance. It was a powerful, exciting, and utterly compelling reminder of music's primal forces that would startle many listeners. Impressive and exciting.
5.A Rich Tapestry of Sound: Rega, Melody HiFi, and Canton
Choy Audio Visual weaved a uniquely attractive sonic tapestry. Was it the British Rega CD player, the tube-driven Melody amplifier, or the German Canton speakers? It was impossible for me to pinpoint. The result was a combination that produced slightly voluptuous imaging, and rich, saturated tonal colors. The overall presentation was simply attractive, offering a warm, musically enjoyable experience that was easy to love.
Spotlight on Malaysian Innovation: It was inspiring to see homegrown talent making making its presence felt. I’d like to give two Malaysian designers special mention:
1.CCY Engineering
CCY Engineering designs and manufactures class A power amplifier. Their SS300B-25C amplifier, specifically designed for full-range loudspeakers, delivered a sound that was creamy smooth through the midrange and highs. Despite a small driver on the fullrange speakers, the system produced quite a prominent bass. The overall result was a relaxed, a little laid-back and musical presentation that will delight full-range enthusiasts and many audiophiles alike. https://www.ccyengineering.com/
2.JW Speaker Lab
I finally got to listen to a JW Speaker Lab’s HiFi loudspeakers in this Show as I only managed to catch their AV setups previously. This experience did not disappoint. Utilizing drivers from SB Acoustics' Satori line, including a rare Beryllium tweeter at this price point, their MTM loudspeakers were sounding clean and detailed, especially in the mids and highs. Coupled to 2 of their own subwoofers, the system also sounded strong in the bass. Overall, it was a well-balanced and musically coherent performance. For those who are looking to go beyond entry-level, JW Speaker Labs is definitely a brand worthy of your consideration. https://www.jwspeakerlab.com/
The recent launch of the new PMC’s Prophecy loudspeaker line
at AV Designs aimed for both audiophiles and
home theatre enthusiasts alike. Held in acoustically optimized settings for
home theatre and stereo music, the PMC showcases offered the attendees a close look
into the British brand’s latest innovations, with the Prophecy series testifying to PMC’s latest innovative pursuit of sonic perfection.
At the heart of the Prophecy line is PMC’s groundbreaking
Laminair X vent, a precision-machined evolution of their Advanced Transmission
Line (ATL) technology. PMC’s ATL designs have long been known for their ability
to deliver deep, controlled bass. With Laminair X, PMC has advanced the transmission line design further. As the company explains, “ATL designs involve air moving at
high speeds and complex fluid dynamic, and introducing the precision machined
ultimate aerodynamic control of Laminair X negates turbulence and drag which in
turn reduces resistance, reduces harmonic distortion by up to 3dB, eliminates
air noise and provides bass with superlative timing and an unparalleled dynamic
range.”
The Laminair X vent not only improves airflow efficiency but
also adds a structural advantage. Its all-metal and weighty construction, acts
as an anchor, enhancing cabinet stability and reducing unwanted resonances.
This dual-purpose design—acoustic and mechanical—underscores PMC’s inventiveness
and engineering prowess.
A Versatile Lineup for
Music and Movies
The Prophecy range, comprises of five models: one bookshelf
(Prophecy1), three floorstanders (Prophecy5, 7, and 9), and one centre speaker
(ProphecyC), is clearly designed to cater to both stereo music lovers and home
theatre aficionados. AV Designs made this dual-purpose line-up evident in the
demo sessions, with the different models used for HT and music duty.
Price list of the PMC Prophecy Range
In the midsize home theatre setup that AD Designs demo'ed, the Prophecy7 and ProphecyC
centre speakers were paired with PMC surround speakers and atmos speakers to deliver a thrilling movie experience. I found that explosive
action scenes were handled with ease and dialogue was crisp and intelligible.
Dynamics and attacks were rendered impactfully, even scary at some points. It was a
clear demonstration of how the Prophecy line can anchor a serious home theatre
system without compromise.
In Prophecy1's stereo music demonstrations, the speakers were set up in a smaller room. Driven
by PMC’s own integrated amplifier, I found the Prophecy1's delivery outstanding. It delivered a
performance that was imbued with warmth and musicality—hallmarks of British
loudspeaker design philosophy, vocals were rich and emotive, instruments well-defined, and
the bass output was quite surprising for such a modest cabinet. It’s the kind
of speaker that would disappear into a room.
PMC Prophecy1 demo session
If you were looking for bigger scale, more depth, and greater
authority, then just move up to the Prophecy1’s bigger brothers, the Prophecy7 and Prophecy9. Both proved to be a significant step up in these parameters yet retaining
the warmth and musicality so evident in their smaller brother. The video below is evidence, showing the Prophecy7 set up for home theatre purpose, playing 2-channel stereo:
The PMC Prophecy line reaffirms the brand’s commitment to
delivering emotionally engaging sound. Whether you’re building a
reference-grade stereo system or a high-performance home theatre, the Prophecy
range delivers.
Contract AV Designs at 03-62411237 to arrange an audition.
When it comes to loudspeaker design, Andrew Jones is one of
the few names that commands enormous respect and admiration. Having followed
his work since his tenure at Technical Audio Devices (TAD), which produced the TAD-CR1
and TAD-R1 (now in TX guise) loudspeakers that have long served as my reference loudspeakers, I’ve come to expect
a certain level of sonic excellence from anything bearing his signature. So
when I heard that Centre Circle Audio had set up a demo pair of the MoFi
SourcePoint V10 Master Edition loudspeakers, the latest iteration of Jones’
design at Mofi, I had to experience them firsthand.
First Impressions: Big
Ambitions, Bold Execution
At 48.8" high, 19.9" wide, 15.5" deep, and a
weight of 160 lbs. The SourcePoint V10 Master Edition is a
physically imposing loudspeaker. This is no thin-and-slim-column design beloved
by many high-end loudspeaker marques. The design is ambitious: a coaxial driver
handles the midrange and highs, pairing a 10-inch midrange with a soft dome
tweeter. Delivering at the low end are two 10-inch woofers and, rather than
conventional reflex ports, two 10-inch passive radiators are used at the back.
This configuration hints at a performance focused on coherence, scale, and
dynamic capability.
The Mofi SourcePoint V10 Master Edition (right) and the next model down, the SourcePoint 888 (left). Size wise, the V10 is a substantial step up
Close-up of the coaxial driver
On my first visit, the speakers had only been unboxed for a
couple of days. As expected, they weren’t fully run-in. Yet even in this
nascent state, the V10s’ strengths were unmistakable. The scale was enormous,
the dynamics impressive, and the mid-to-high detail was already shining
through. It could convey emotion of a solo voice and also let rip with rock
music. It was clear that these speakers had serious potential. There were areas
to be further improved on - the bass was undeniably powerful, though I could
detect a slightly ponderous side—lacking the agility and definition I associate
with Jones’ work. The overall presentation felt slightly congested, as the
drivers were still stretching their legs.
Second Encounter:
Transformation Through Time
Fast forward to a month later, I returned for a second
listen. What greeted me was nothing short of a transformation. The V10s had
matured beautifully. The congestion had lifted, revealing a soundstage that was
even more open, expansive, and immersive, one of the best if not the best at
this price point, and easily rivalled others selling at multiples of the V10s’ asking
price. The bass had undergone a complete metamorphosis—now tight, punchy, and
fast, with impressive depth and control. The passive radiators were doing their
job with finesse, delivering low-end authority without the boominess that could
plague ported designs.
What struck me most was the coherence in the V10s’ musical
expression. From top to bottom, the V10 delivered a seamless sonic picture. The
coaxial driver ensured that the midrange and highs were perfectly aligned,
resulting in a natural, lifelike presentation that conveyed musical nuance with
clarity.
Play It Loud: Clean,
Lively, and Addictive
One of the most delightful characters of the V10s was how well
they handled high volumes. They practically begged to be played loud, and when we
obliged with the volume knob, they responded with clean, distortion-free output
that retained its composure and its communicativeness. Whether it was
orchestral crescendos or driving rock anthems, the V10 made everything sound
exciting and alive.
This liveliness is also a hallmark of Andrew Jones’ designs
at TAD. I could recognize similar shades of performance traits —the openness, the
scale, the speed and the dynamic punch. While the TADs could pip the Mofi V10 in
terms of top-end crispness and micro-detail resolution, the latter is still a highly
satisfying listen in these respects, especially for those who do not prefer a
warts-and-all presentation.
The 2 passive radiators situated at the back of the V10
A toggle to tweak the tweeter level is situated above the binding posts, allowing the owner to match the highs better to the room
SourcePoint V10 Master
Edition : A Triumph of Design and Value
The MoFi SourcePoint V10 Master Edition is a triumph. It’s a
loudspeaker that punches far above its price class, delivering scale, dynamics,
and coherence that rival far more expensive offerings.
If you’re in the market for a loudspeaker that thrills, engages, and delivers a taste of reference-level performance, the SourcePoint V10 Master Edition deserves your attention. This is a great loudspeaker, period.
Mofi SourcePoint loudspeakers are carried by Centre Circle Audio, call 03-7728 2686 to arrange an audition.
After my last jaw-dropping encounter with AV Designs’
seismic subwoofer setup—where a 24-inch Ascendo woofer redefined what “low-end”
meant (read it here) - I was invited back for a follow-up session. This time,
things had gotten more serious. The 24-incher was replaced with the 32-inch
Ascendo subwoofer that I alluded to in my last post.
Yes, 32 inches. And yes, when you thought bass could not have gone deeper and deeper, this hunk of a subwoofer made a big difference - and profoundly so.
The moment the system engaged, the large room was totally
filled. There was an unmistakable sense of scale - the soundstage had grown further,
with instruments and effects occupying a more expansive, three-dimensional
space.
Bass dug even deeper into the floor, the sound effects from
Hollywood blockbusters spreading out around, beneath and above, enveloping you
fully. And yet, counterintuitively, everything felt more relaxed. I
could not imagine myself saying this comparing with my previous experience with
the 24 inch sub, but gone was the ever slightest hint of strain that I didn't even know was there until I experienced its big brother here. Bass line
emerged with a natural ease that was almost uncanny, with each bass notes
unfurled even more effortlessly.
Despite its sheer size, this sub wasn’t overbearing. What
truly impressed me was how coherently the new sub integrated with the
rest of the system. James Tan and the AV Designs team had clearly spent
considerable effort tuning the setup. The balance remained
impeccable. The integration of the 32-inch monster into the existing
five-subwoofer array (including dual 21s and dual 18s) was executed with
excellence. Each was meticulously integrated and calibrated to provide a bass
response that’s linear, clean, and enveloping.
Music and movie sound tracks alike benefited. Music was
provided with a rock solid foundation, the mid and highs were even smoother
than before. Explosive scenes from action soundtracks hit with visceral impact
but with none of the muddiness lesser systems suffer from.
AV Designs continues to chase the limits of what’s possible
in the home setting, and this latest installation isn’t just about brute force. It’s about
control, precision, and not least excitement. Absolutely an experience that should not be missed by any serious AV enthusiasts and audiophiles.
Contact AV Designs 03-62411237 for enquiries and audition.
