August 2011 Newsletter
Pictures of Larry in Vienna
Here are a few photos that were not available for last Newsletter that show the beauty and grandeur of The Musikverein in Vienna. Too bad Larry had to travel so far to enjoy the visual and aural magnificence. Since his trip he has continued to upgrade and modify his 2-channel system in the effort to come a bit closer to what he experienced in Vienna.
Now On Display
Audio Research REF 250 Monoblock Power Amplifiers
Simply put, the REF250 is a breakthrough in monoblock power amplification. Replacing the REF210—which was one of the finest and most sought-after modern monoblock amplifiers—was a daunting task, but it has been accomplished. The REF250 offers more power, greater dynamic thrust, a more vivid and resolved presentation, greater finesse, and quieter operation. It is the new benchmark.
The REF250 is a fully-balanced design, so its inputs are balanced XLR only. It has a 20-amp IEC power connector, 4-8-16 ohm output taps and 12V triggers arrayed on the rear panel. Under the top cover there are a number of circuit enhancements resulting in stunningly improved performance.
All-new interstage coupling capacitors using technology and materials first incorporated in our Anniversary Edition preamplifier effortlessly link input stage to output stage, which is powered by three matched pairs of KT120 output tubes driven by another matched pair of KT120’s, plus a pair of 6H30 for the Gain Stage and Regualtor Driver. There is more than ample multistage solid-state regulation. Output stage coupling is a combination of “ultralinear” and Audio Research’s patented “partially cathode-coupled” topology, which is superior to conventional pentode or triode operation.
Larger, wide-bandwidth output transformers handle the greater output with ease. Power output is rated at 250 WPC into 4-, 8- or 16-ohm speaker loads. Each channel is very quietly fan-cooled using new low-turbulence intakes, with two selectable fan speeds.
With all of these changes one would logically expect enhanced performance. But it is fair to say you will be shocked by the amount of improvement you hear from the REF250 when compared to its predecessor. Those familiar with the boundary-extending performance of the Anniversary Preamplifier will hear similar qualities from the REF250.
The immediate impression conveys much greater speed, power and control compared to any other tube power amplifier you can think of. Bass extension, harmonic delineation and speaker driver control are the best ever to come from an Audio Research tube amplifier, regardless of power output – and that is saying something. The REF250 does not drive a loudspeaker so much as it dominates it and brings to life the most from any speaker. Paired with capable front-end components and good cabling, the results are nothing short of a revelation. You will hear inner harmonic structure and dynamic realism that simply were not present before, within an envelope of air and spatial cues that let you know that you are hearing everything that the recording has to offer.
In short, the REF250 amplifies more critical musical information from your preamplifier and source components than you have ever heard before. Prepare to be astonished once again.
Retail Price: $12,995.00 each
Available for demo at Paragon.
For more information, visit or call Larry at Paragon 734.662.3595
Now On Display
McIntosh MCD1100 SACD/CD/WMA/MP3 Player & DAC
More than a simple CD player, the MCD1100 will play CD/SACD/MP3/WMA disks at the highest possible fidelity which yields maximum musical enjoyment. Five additional digital inputs and outputs are available allowing the use of many consumer and professional digital devices. A MAC or PC may be connected through the dedicated USB input for superior playback of stored music using any of the popular music management programs.
High performance, variable volume, balanced outputs will run any power amplifier directly or may be used with the built in headphone amplifier for private listening. Die Cast aluminum transport and drawer assembly delivers quiet operation, precise handling of disks and long operational life. Classic 3D glass faceplate design and polished stainless steel chassis are beautiful to see while adding long term value.
Retail Price: $10,000.00
Available for demo at Paragon.
For more information, visit or call Larry at Paragon 734.662.3595
Now On Display
SME MODEL 20/3
The compact Model 20 features all of the same design principles as the Model 30, including the main bearing, platter design, and suspension system. At far less than half the price, the Model 20 delivers to the consumer an opportunity to have reference quality playback in a small and more affordable package. Compatible with all SME tonearms. Blank arm boards are available for other tonearms. The outboard power supply has 33, 45,and 78 speeds.
Retail Price: $18,000.00 (w/ Series V Tonearm)
Available for demo at Paragon.
For more information, visit or call Ron at Paragon 734.662.3595
Available & On Display Now
Etymotic ER•4 MicroPro Series Earphones
Etymotic invented noise-isolating, in-ear earphones. Etymotic's original insert earphone design, developed for auditory research and medical diagnostics, used balanced armature receivers and established these speakers as the gold standard for high-definition, in-ear earphones. The ER•4 MicroPro series earphones were the first earphones commercialized using this technology and are recognized as the world leader in response accuracy, to which all other earphones are compared. After more than 20 years, these reference-quality earphones are still the choice of serious sound engineers, audiophiles and musicians. ER•4PT, the newest model in the MicroPro series, is intended for sound engineers and audiophiles in constant motion. ER•4PT combines the acoustic characteristics and features of ER•4P earphones, and comes with extra mobile adapters and accessories for traveling professionals. Also included is an industry-exclusive channel-matching compliance graph, signed by the Etymotic engineer who precision matched and custom tuned the balanced-armature drivers Retail Price: $299.00 Available for demo at Paragon. For more information, visit or call Larry at Paragon 734.662.3595
Here at Paragon Sight & Sound, we won’t ever ask you to drink the Kool-Aid®; but we will offer you a pretty great cup of coffee! We represent the best products, with a showroom and staff to support these products at the very highest level. Because we know that everyone is different and have different tastes and needs; we have paid close attention to represent products with a wide array of performance characteristics, aesthetics and price points.
It is our belief that passion is passion, and at Paragon we use that passion to help our clients realize their dream system. We hope that you will stop by and see what Paragon can do for you.
