Bowers & Wilkins CM1 S2 Bookshelf Speaker Reviewed

Bowers & Wilkins CM1 S2 Bookshelf Speaker Reviewed

 

 

 

Yamaha Aventage RX-A3040 AV Receiver Reviewed

Yamaha Aventage RX-A3040 AV Receiver Reviewed

 

 Yamaha has enjoyed quite a bit of success with the introduction of
its premium Aventage line of AV receivers and separates. While the
Aventage line has been available for a while, it remains quite
competitive in its performance, features, and connectivity; a recent
firmware update added Dolby Atmos and Dolby Surround modes. I'll point
you to this refresher on all things Dolby Atmos if you need it.

Sitting at the top of the Aventage receiver
lineup is the RX-A3040, priced at $2,199. It is billed as a 9.2-channel
receiver, as it provides both control and amplification for nine
channels and up to two subwoofers in a variety of configurations.
However, it is capable of providing control for two additional channels,
as long as you have an external amplifier to power them. The receiver
includes two of ESS Technology's high-performance DACs: the 32-bit
ESS9016 processes the seven main channels, while the 24-bit ESS9006
processes the front and rear presence (or overhead) speakers and two subwoofer channels.

Features abound with the RX-A3040. This networkable receiver has
built-in apps for Internet radio and streaming services such as
Rhapsody, Spotify, SiriusXM, Pandora, and others. Built-in WiFi capability allows for a wireless connection to your router, and you can connect to Apple devices via AirPlay or an HTC phone via the HTC
Connect app. The Yamaha can decode most music formats, including WAV and
FLAC (both up to 24-bit/192-kHz), Apple's ALAC, and others. USB and MHL
ports allow for the connection of a wide gamut of devices. Advanced HDMI
zone switching allows you to output any source to a second zone through
HDMI (analog audio is also available in a third zone). The RX-A3040 can
pass through and upscale to 4K/60 Ultra HD;
however, it's not HDCP 2.2-compliant, and Yamaha does not plan to offer
an upgrade path, so you will need a workaround if you plan to embrace
Ultra HD Blu-ray
in the near future. There is even a phono input (MM cartridges) for
connecting a turntable, so there's no need to give up your vinyl.

The Hookup
The RX-A3040 chassis weighs just shy
of a hefty 40 pounds and carries a slew of connectivity features,
including eight HDMI inputs and two outputs--plenty for all your
sources. (Visit Yamaha's website for a full rundown of connection options.) I used the first two HDMI inputs for my AT&T U-Verse box for TV and my Oppo BDP-105 for all spinning-disc sources. With the Yamaha set to handle all video processing and switching, I sent HDMI output to my BenQ W7000 projector, displaying to my Elite Screens Spectrum 128-inch screen. I ran speaker wire
to my usual 5.1 speaker configuration with the pair of Salk Soundscape
12 speakers serving as front left and right channels, a Salk Soundscape
7C as center, and the B&W CM6 S2 in the surround role. I connected
my SVS PC-13 Ultra subwoofer to one of the two subwoofer outs on the Yamaha.

For the Atmos channels, Atlantic Technology was kind enough to
provide two pairs of the 44-DA Atmos-enabled speaker modules (review
coming soon) to complete a 5.1.4 Atmos configuration. Since Atmos
capability was not enabled out of the box, I downloaded the new firmware
to get it. Next, I set up my speakers using Yamaha's proprietary YPAO.
The version of YPAO included with the RX-A3040 uniquely includes 3D
and Angle measurement, which is not an advancement to be taken lightly.
Our Yamaha rep describes these options like this: "The Angle measurement
is used to correct for speaker placement that deviates from the
commonly used ITU-r placement. Furniture, windows and room layout can
prevent many people from placing speakers in the proper location. By
knowing where all speakers are placed in relation to the prime listening
spot, the DSP processing can image the signal to more closely match ITU
suggestions. Meanwhile, the Height Angle
measurement is used, among other things, to give the Atmos decoder more
accurate data on how to map the individual sound objects within the
listening room. If the receiver knows that the front right overhead
speaker is 45 degrees to the front instead of 60 degrees, the decoder
can more accurately place the sound of a mosquito, for instance, in the
three-dimensional confines of the room."

For an Atmos setup, I needed to make a few tweaks before running
YPAO. First, I enabled 3D and Angle and multipoint (this makes for a
longer setup time, but allows YPAO to take measurements at multiple
points and create a smoother sound-field across multiple seating
positions, such as an entire couch). Then I set the front height and
rear presence speakers to the setting for Atmos-enabled speakers.
Running through YPAO took about 20 minutes or so, and YPAO got most
things correct. It correctly detected the presence of all speakers, and
its distances and levels were accurate. My surround and rear presence
speakers were both set to large, however, and crossover points were set a
little too low given the speaker sets. I can't really fault YPAO for
this, as I happened to place my surrounds in the back corners of the
room with the rear Atmos modules on top, and corners are known to
reinforce bass. I made a couple of manual adjustments for this, and I
was on on my way...although I must note that YPAO did not allow me to
set the exact crossover point of 150 Hz that Atlantic Tech recommends
for the Atmos modules, but forced me to choose between 120 Hz and 160
Hz. I chose 160 Hz to be closer to the recommended setting.

 

 Performance
I started off with some two-channel
music: Wynton Marsalis' album Marsalis Standard Time Vol. 1 (SACD,
Columbia). Initial testing showed that my power-hungry Salk L/R speakers
were a little too much for the Yamaha to handle. The RX-A3040 boasts a
power rating of 150 watts per channel with two channels driven, which is
the minimum power amplification recommended for my speakers. So, while
the Yamaha stretched admirably to drive the Salks, it couldn't stretch
quite far enough get the best performance out of them. Swapping out my
Salks for my B&W CM6 S2 bookshelf speakers
made for a rich, beautiful sound. Bass lines were tight and
well-defined, piano notes were rich and had the heft I expected, and
Marsalis' trumpet sang with all its squeaky nuances in place.

Price Only $1999.99

FinalCut Comfort Technology 

OM/ONE: The world's first levitating bluetooth speaker

Great Sound. Beautiful Design.

In a world filled with speakers
that look and sound the same, OM/ONE is a paradigm shift. Designed by a
team of world class industrial designers and audio engineers, OM/ONE is
as functional as it is beautiful. Features:

Levitating Driver
for world class sound - Hear every high and low with no external
distortion with the OM/ONE levitating driver. OM/ONE was engineered and
tuned by the former Director of Engineering for Velodyne Acoustics.
Pair two OM/ONEs together for true stereo sound.

Bluetooth 4.0 -
Connect your phone or other bluetooth device and play music from popular
music apps like Pandora, Spotify, Rdio, and Beats Music. Change tracks
and control volume from up to 33 ft. away.

Type 1 Microphone -
Your phone calls will never be the same. Enjoy pristine OM/ONE audio
and get inspired by the world’s first levitating speaker phone.

Portable - Pick up the OM/ONE speaker orb and take it anywhere! Enjoy music all day with industry leading battery life

FinalCut Comfort Technology

Clio Invisible Wireless Speaker

Audiophiles, say hello to the first new loudspeaker technology in more than 80 years. Introducing Clio by Clearview Audio.

A team of seasoned industry pros—who spent their careers with big-name speaker brands—collaborated to develop this groundbreaking device. Makers Allan Evelyn, Gene D'Ovidio, and Stefan Bokamper took years to perfect and produce it, ensuring every element would be right.

Clio pairs the purest audio quality with stunning, intentional design. The patented architecture borrows a principle from aerospace technology, using piezoelectric actuators to stimulate both sides of the acrylic arc. Music radiates up the sides, then cascades outwards to create full, clear panoramic sound.

Nearly invisible from a distance, the clear curve is as strikingly beautiful as it is innovative. The minimalist portrait compliments any aesthetic environment. To round out their thoughtful design, the team made Clio intuitive to use. Directly connect a device or effortlessly pair one via Bluetooth.

Incredible sound, elegant form, and a facile interface. All summed up in a word: Clio.

FinalCut Comfort Technology

Yamaha A-S3000 Hi-End Integrated Stereo Amplifier

Yamaha A-S3000 Natural Sound Integrated Amplifier

Profoundly accurate sound with the full expressive power of the music. 
Exceptional sonic purity, elimination of signal loss — in an exquisite, elegant design.
The supreme culmination of the Yamaha line — the A-S3000.

• Rigid streamlined construction — provides strict anti-vibration protection and enables shortest cabling routes
• Large toroidal transformer, solidly mounted with independent three-dimensional inner frame
• Comprehensive low impedance design, shortened signal paths and copper-plated chassis
• 1/4" thick top panel made of non-magnetic aluminum plate
• Left-right symmetrical design for independent pre-amp and power amp blocks
• Floating and balanced power amplifier with MOSFETs
• All-stage balanced transmission
• Direct drawing toroidal transformer for complete elimination of signal transmission loss
• Exceptionally low impedance through secure screw connections
• Superior quality electronic volume control for optimum sound
• Discretely configured phono amp
• Exquisite, large level meters reflect the dynamics in the music
• Meticulously designed and beautiful in appearance — just like a musical instrument
• Original speaker terminals for high sound quality, as well as beauty and ease of use
• Obsessive, meticulous switch design — elaborate, richly textured, easy-to-use

A-S3000 Black

The A-S3000 has adopted a newly designed highly rigid double structure construction in order to achieve profoundly pure and accurate audio amplification. The bottom chassis and insulator ward off external vibration and provide each circuit board a floating structure supported by an independent inner frame, thoroughly eliminating the impact of vibration. And the power source unit, which consists of a power transformer and capacitors, which are major sources of internal vibration, is fixed firmly with a three-dimensional structured inner frame and is supported solidly by the front panel and the rear panel. The power amplifier circuit board and the weighty heat sink are attached to the left and right inner frames. The power supply unit and amplifier circuits are thus structurally isolated, achieving an ideal chassis structure which thoroughly blocks the transmission of vibration. Moreover, the inner frame that supports the power transformer is shaped with ample space below it, allowing passage of the wiring to each circuit over the shortest possible route. The newly developed chassis with this innovative structure helps to minimize the length of the signal paths and achieve low impedance, as well as providing high rigidity and anti-vibration benefits. The result is a dramatic reduction in signal loss, for remarkably pure audio amplification.

In order to achieve the absolute purest signal transmission, capable of communicating even the most subtle nuances of the music and its powerful dynamism—for example, reproducing powerful, agile low frequencies and portraying all the emotional nuances of the human voice—we've methodically pursued low impedance throughout the A-S3000. Using a double construction design creates space for cables under the bottom of the chassis, enabling the shortest cable path for the supply of power from the transformer to the power stage and for the audio signal transmission path. This helps to eliminate signal transmission loss and to smoothly supply power, even during high-volume transients, and allows more direct audio reproduction without even the slightest adverse effect on the music. Also, the three-dimensional inner frame to which the power transformer is mounted is copper-plated. Extremely low impedance is assured by lowering the ground potential. This sharply lowers the impact of noise and delivers a profound and richly emotional sound—one that perfectly communicates all the original expression of the artist.

The top panel and the front panel are made of aluminum, a non-magnetic material, in order to eliminate any adverse effect on the audio signals. In the course of strictest examination of the sound quality, the front panel thickness was set at 0.28” and the top panel was set at 0.24” . This helps to realize an exceptionally natural, spacious sound by providing a highly rigid chassis structure and at the same time, skillfully controlling the impact of vibration. Moreover, heat dissipation openings on the top panel were formed by high precision cutting from both sides—front and back—of the panel and finished with thorough scrupulous attention to every detail. Stylish slits in the center, matching the companion CD-S3000 and its design, strongly emphasize the powerful power source unit inside by having the same width as the power transformer.

The amplifier circuit design features independent preamplifier and power amplifier blocks and perfect left-right symmetry. Separation of the preamplifier, which handles low energy signals, from the power amplifier, which handles high-energy amplified signals, greatly reduces sound deterioration caused by mutual interference. Moreover, the left-right symmetrical design, which keeps the left and right power stages completely separate, ensures greater channel separation and enhances clarity of the stereo image.

The basic design of the power amplifier circuit adopts Yamaha’s proprietary Floating and Balanced Power Amplifier technology. Adopting output elements with the same polarity on the plus and minus sides of the output stage and also completely separating the NFB (Negative Feedback) circuit and power supply into a total of four plus and minus sides of the left and right channels, results in thoroughly symmetric push-pull operation of the output stage. Completely floating the entire power amplifier circuit from the ground removes any negative impact of minute voltage fluctuations or ground noise. Moreover, the output elements are comprised of MOSFETs, which provide a warm and natural sonic character. The use of MOSFETs, which have the same polarity on the plus and minus sides, further evolves the ideal of a complete symmetrical design, to eliminate sound quality variations due to difference in polarity—a major distinguishing characteristic of the Floating and Balanced Power Amplifier—resulting in sound with a superior signal-to-noise ratio and a superbly well-defined sound field.

The A-S3000 features fully balanced signal transmission. Moreover, the control system circuits (volume, tone, etc.) of the preamplifier feature totally balanced operation, realizing ideal balance in all stages.

The cabling of the power transformer adopts an ingenious method in order to significantly reduce impedance. The winding of the transformer itself is directly connected to the terminal with a screw, unlike with conventional cabling. This enables a power supply which thoroughly limits connection loss and energy loss caused by soldering. The toroidal transformer was selected with top priority on sound quality, contributing superior strength, as well as a profoundly natural and spacious sound.

In order to completely eliminate signal energy loss, important parts of even the circuits employ screw connections. In addition to wiring of the block capacitor of the power unit—which is the real heart of the amplifier and as such requires high power—screw connections were adopted for all crucial spots of signal transmission, including the connection of the preamplifier circuit with the power amplifier circuit, and the cabling to the speaker terminals from the output stage of the power amplifier. In addition to making the signal path as short as possible, this significantly lowers the impedance and greatly reduces signal loss.

The A-S3000 features large level meters on the front panel, giving a direct visual sense of the dynamics and pulse of the music. These beautiful meters are softly illuminated by LED, lending a warm, lamplight look. The meter indicators can, in addition to the VU display, be switched to peak display, and can be selected according to the user’s preference. Moreover, the glass window of the meters is diagonally cut and precision-fit to the back surface of the front panel, leaving no gaps and using no screws for connection—lending an exceptionally elegant appearance to the unit.

A-S3000 in Silver

As befits a top-end audio component, the A-S3000 gives off the presence of a fine musical instrument, with absolutely no screws or fasteners that can be seen from the outside. Every single aspect of its construction and design exudes master craftsmanship and reflects an obsession with quality—a truly musical quality possible only for Yamaha, a world class musical instrument manufacturer. The amplifier with its refined design has been meticulously finished by the skillful use of advanced processing technologies: integrating the top panel and side wood connection, leaving no gaps while using different materials—metal and wood—for the connection.

The speaker terminals are the final link in the audio chain of this amplifier and have also been designed with meticulous obsession. The screw-type terminals have large handles and feature an original design that has been crafted by cutting pure brass to enable a secure connection with no reduction in sound quality. Moreover, the shape conforms nicely to the human fingers—not only creating an elegant visual impression, but also allowing users to turn them easily and to firmly tighten them with minimal force.

Since the controls—the volume dial, switches and so on—are the parts of the amplifier which users actually touch and feel directly, their surface texture and design were created with the strictest attention to detail. Individual controls such as the volume or input switching dials, emanate a richly elegant feel thanks to the use of cut aluminum knobs. Switches, including the power switch, were made with obsessive attention to texture in every detail; they were shaped with refined craftsmanship so that when they are raised or lowered, the gap between the switch and panel surface is impossible to see.

The supplied remote control features a design complementary to the aluminum panel of the amplifier itself, with a simple, easy-to-understand button layout and gorgeous metallic texture. In addition to the basic volume adjustment and input switching controls of the A-S3000, it can also be used for operation of the companion CD-S3000

Specifications

Maximum Power
(8 ohms, 1 kHz, 10% THD) 130 W + 130 W / (4 ohms, 1 kHz, 10% THD) 210 W + 210 W

Minimum RMS Output Power
(8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.07% THD) 100 W + 100 W / (4 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.07% THD) 150 W + 150 W

Dynamic Power/Channel
(8 / 6 / 4 / 2 ohms) 120 / 150 / 200 / 300 W

Damping Factor
(8 ohms, 1 kHz) 250

Input Sensitivity/ Impedance
CD 200 mV / 47 kilohm, Phono MM 2.5 mV / 47 kilohm, Phono MC 100 μV / 50 ohms, Main in 1 V / 47 kilohm

Frequency Response
CD, etc. to speaker out, Flat position 5 Hz-100 kHz +0 dB / -3 dB, CD, etc. to speaker out, Flat position 20 Hz-20 kHz +0 dB / -0.3 dB

RIAA Equalization Deviation
Phono MM (20 Hz-20 kHz) ±0.5 dB / Phono MC (20 Hz-20 kHz) ±0.5 dB

Total Harmonic Distortion (20 Hz–20 kHz)
CD balanced to speaker out 0.025% (50 W / 8 ohms), CD, etc. to speaker out 0.025% (50 W / 8 ohms), Phono MM to Rec Out 0.005% (1.2 V), Phono MC to rec out 0.02% (1.22 V)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio [IHF-A Network]
CD, etc., (200 mV, Input Shorted) 103 dB, Phono MM (5 mV, Input Shorted) 93 dB, Phono MC (500 μV, Input Shorted) 85 dB

Residual Noise
CD, etc., IHF-A-Network

Channel Separation (1 kHz/10 kHz)
CD, etc., Input 5.1 kilohm Terminaled 74 dB / 54 dB, Phono MM, Input Shorted, Vol: -30 dB 90 dB / 77 dB, Phono MC, Input Shorted, Vol: -30 dB 66 dB / 77 dB

Tone Control Characteristics
Bass Boost / Cut (at 50 Hz) ±9 dB, Bass Turnover Frequency 350 Hz, Treble Boost / Cut (at 20 Hz) ±9 dB, Treble Turnover Frequency 3.5 kHz

Audio Muting
-20 dB (approx.)

Load Impedance
If you use two sets (A and B), the impedance of each speaker must be 8 ohms or higher.

Dimensions (W x H x D)
17-1/8” x 7-1/8” x 18-1/4”

Weight
54.2 lbs.

Final Cut Comfort Technology

comforteque@gmail.com

Yamaha SRT 1000 PV Hi-Def TV Base

While other TV speaker bases offer only stereo audio or a “virtual surround” experience, the SRT-1000 uses Yamaha exclusive Digital Sound Projector technology to produce sound beams that reflect off the walls of your room to deliver true 5.1-channel surround sound. The result is an expansive and immersive listening experience that brings your favorite TV shows and movies to life.

The SRT-1000’s large capacity cabinet is built using MDF materials ideal for producing good quality sound, with a central array of eight beam speakers and oval woofer units on both sides that together create Yamaha's original Digital Sound Projector sound beams. Beams can be adjusted to cover a wider listening area with the remote control or with the dedicated Home Theater Controller app, for more people to enjoy the powerful, expansive sound.

The subwoofers mounted on the left and right sides of the bottom surface come equipped with independent bass reflex ports. The ports reduce unwanted resonance by facilitating a smooth flow of air. Combined with the cabinet’s large-capacity construction, the unit delivers rich, clear bass.

Use the output jack to add an optional external subwoofer for added bass.

The SRT-1000 is compatible with popular surround sound formats, such as Dolby® Digital and DTS Digital Surround™, so you get the full effect of multichannel movie sound.

Play music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet. Supports aptX® for superior sound quality with compatible devices.

The SRT-1000 offers a space-saving design that’s a breeze to install. Thanks to its 30-3/4" wide, 14-5/8" deep construction, the SRT-1000 can be placed under TVs up to 55" . And what’s more, because it’s designed to fit easily under your TV, the unit brings you full-scale surround sound without getting in the way of the TV screen.

comforteque@gmail.com

5133444772

Yamaha Digital Sound Projector YSP 3300

comforteque@gmail.com

 5133444772

Product Highlights:

Sound bar:

• 2 watts peak x 16 (beam drivers) + 50 watts peak x 2 (cone woofers)
• sixteen 1-1/8" drivers
• two 2-1/2" cone woofers
• 4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output
• HDMI version 1.4a with support for 3D Video, Audio Return Channel, Deep Color, x.v.Color, lip-sync, and HDMI-CEC
• adjustable feet for easy placement below most televisions
• mounts to wall with optional SPM-K20 bracket
• 39-3/8"W x 3-1/2"H (with spacer: 3-7/8"H) x 6-5/8"D
• weight: 13.9 lbs.

Subwoofer:

• 130 watts peak
• 6-1/2" cone woofer with Advanced YST technology for clear, powerful bass
• linear port for enhanced bass output
• sets horizontal or vertically for convenient placement
• 5-3/4"W x 17-9/16"H x 14-5/8"D
• weight: 19.8 lbs.

System:

• CINEMA DSP technology delivers true 7.1 surround sound
• 10 CINEMA DSP modes, including three movie, three music, and four entertainment
• UniVolume™ keeps volume at the same level during TV programs and commercials
• IntelliBeam automatic speaker calibration (microphone included) sets system configuration for up to 7.1 channel surround
• built-in Dolby® Digital, Dolby Pro Logic® IIx, Dolby Digital EX, DTS® Digital Surround, DTS-ES Master Audio, DTS 96/24 and DTS Neo:6 processing
• compatible with the optional YIT-W12 wireless transmitter for Apple® smartphones, media players, and tablets
• audio inputs include 1 analog RCA stereo pair, 2 optical digital, and 1 coaxial digital
• remote control, plus IR port for remote repeater systems
• warranty: 2 years