February 2024 - Newsletter
Published on
15th February 2024
Vitus Audio & Avalon Weekend - 2nd & 3rd march 2024
Stax Electrostatic earspeakers
New - Naim Uniti Nova power Edition
On the Shop Hi-Fi - Nils Frahm / Four Tet / Khruangbin
Last week, we took a customer to the Naim Factory in Salisbury to experience the ultimate hi-fi demo session. They got to compare the 500 Series with Naim Statement! We also listened to the brand new Uniti Nova Power Edition - ideal for those who want an all-in-one player to drive larger loudspeakers without compromising on sound.
This month sees the first in a new series of brand insights - starting with Stax from Japan. You'll discover why their pioneering Electrostatic Earspeakers have such a devoted following. Once you listen - we guarantee you'll want to join the cult of Stax.
We also have an exciting event in the first weekend of March, in collaboration with AIRT. We'll have a reference system showcasing Vitus Audio, Avalon Acoustics and Stillpoints.
It's the Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2024 next Friday, so we’ll give a sneak preview of all the newest developments in hi-fi from the likes of ATC, Rega and Soulnote in next month's newsletter.
See you soon,
Dean & Alex
Brand Focus - Blog静魂 Quiet Soul - STAX Electrostatic Earspeakers
We look at Japanese brand STAX and what makes their Electrostatic Earspeakers sound so incredible.
STAX created the first "Electrostatic" earspeakers * with the STAX SR-1 back in 1960. It was a significant leap forward in headphone design and was the perfect example of STAX's dedication to delivering "an immersive & realistic listening experience."
STAX creates headphones using the philosophy of ‘静魂. Quiet Soul - a noble endeavour that hopes to "bring our listeners to a moment of sublime peace."
Upcoming Hi-Fi EventVitus Audio & Avalon Acoustics Weekend - 2nd & 3rd March
We're hosting an exciting event on Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd March 2024 (11am-4pm). It's in collaboration with AIRT - and will feature Vitus Audio amplification, and Avalon Acoustics Loudspeakers, enhanced by Stillpoints isolation.
You'll listen to several Vitus Audio Integrated amplifiers on demonstration, including the RI-101 Mk.II Integrated Amplifier from the Reference Series, plus the SIA-025 Mk.II Integrated Amplifier and the SIA-030 Integrated Amplifier, both from the Signature Series.
This reference hi-fi system will also feature the MP-L201 Mk.II Linestage from the Masterpiece Series and the SM-103 Mk.II Monaural Power Amplifier from the Signature Series. They will drive the mighty Avalon Acoustics PM3.2 Loudspeakers - a system that looks as beautiful as it sounds.
Recommended Hi-FiAvalon Acoustics PM1.2
We are loving the PRECISION MONITOR 1.2 Loudspeakers.
Designed to generate maximum dynamic contrast whilst rendering blacker soundstage backgrounds and improved transient speed. These have exceptional phase and timing accuracy - producing a natural sound.
These will feature in our Vitus & Avalon Acoustics Weekend - 2nd & 3rd March 2024.
Music & CultureMusic on the shop Hi-Fi
Below is a selection of current favourites playing in the demo room.
1. Vieux Farka Touré & Khruangbin - “Ali”
A beautifully chilled LP from 2019 - A tribute to Farka Touré’s father Ali - a renowned multi-instrumentalist from Mali.
2. Sheherazaad - “Dhjund Lo Mujhe”
(Prod. Arooj Aftab)
Sheherazaad gives a full vocal workout. From falsetto to a delicate whisper. You hear something new with every listen. Out now on Erased Tapes.
3. Nils Frahm - “Butter Notes”
Also on Erased Tapes - This is the first single from Nils Frahm’s new album “Day.“ An uplifting piano piece which has been filling the demo room with its warmth.
4. Four Tet - “Loved”
Caribou & Floating Points gift an electronic harp to Kieran Hebden - this tune is the result. It features on Four Tet’s new album “Three” out on March 15th.
Played on: dCS Bartók APEX DAC, Vitus Audio RI-101 Mk.II Reference Integrated Amp & Avalon Acoustics PM1.2 Loudspeakers, Stillpoints isolation, with Shunyata cables.
Hi-Fi NewsNaim Uniti Nova PE ( Power Edition )
More bounce to the ounce
The Uniti Nova PE is a powerful one-box music streaming system that can drive even demanding speakers, thanks to its innovative, but controversial, Class D amplification. It offers all the features of the acclaimed Uniti Series but with more power and a compact design.
Power & musicality in one.
Available now at £8,600 ( inc. VAT)
Naim Uniti Nova Power Edition