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CES 2007
 Lamm
Industries introduced the wildly expensive
reference ML3 mono amplifiers ($126k). I was
told that only one was actually built for the
show and I was actually present to hear it
compared to the ML2 in a left channel versus
right channel A/B. Since I've never done
anything like that before I can't really say I
was comfortable. But I will say without even
trying hard the ML3 did sound better -
out of the right channel. Technical attributes state in part: The ML3 is a 32
watt, no overall feedback pure class-A
single-ended amplifier. It’s built on one of
the most sophisticated power supplies ever
used in audio, and its most prominent features
are:
*Separate plate and filament transformers
*Six filter chokes
*Six rectifier tubes
*Highest quality film capacitors used in
high-voltage power supply feeding the output
stage
*Refined soft-start and delay circuits
*Option for turning the amp on/off controlled
via Lamm preamplifiers
While the ML3 has no overall loop feedback,
the amplifier features an option allowing the
user to introduce small amounts of local
feedback in the output stage. You can choose
between two levels of feedback: NFB1 and NFB2,
which differ in their levels. This allows for
three feedback options: No feedback, NFB1 or
NFB2.
A multi-turn trimming potentiometer,
accessible through a special opening in the
amplifier’s chassis, along with a set of test
points, allow the user to adjust and measure
the plate current of the output tube via an
external voltmeter.
Absolutely unique custom-made output
transformers, along with our unique output
stage and sophisticated power supply, allow
the ML3 to drive most real-world speakers
yielding tremendous sonic impact and stability
under the most dynamic conditions. Although
the ML3 can drive most speakers, their full
potential is best realized with
high-efficiency speakers of 92dB and higher.
The design goal of the ML3 was to use best
modern technology and processes in a style
reminiscent of equipment from the golden age
of vacuum tubes. Each amplifier is carefully
constructed and handcrafted of the finest
materials and world-class parts, some of which
include military-graded DALE metal film
resistors, PRC wirewound resistors, CADDOCK
power film resistors; BOURNS multi-turn
potentiometers; CORNELL DUBILIER and UNITED
CHEMI-CON electrolytic capacitors, ELECTROCUBE,
ROEDERSTEIN and ELCON film capacitors; HAMMOND
chokes; gold-plated NEUTRIC and FISCHER
connectors; military-graded low-noise
long-life vacuum tube
So there you have it: a pair of Wilson Watt
Puppy 8s on one end with Metronome's acrylic
masterpiece CD turntable in the Kalista
Reference spinning a Stereo Times jazz sampler
no less ($34k) via Kubala-Sosna cabling
through and through. To hear the sonic
capability of the ML3 will happen on another
day. Until then...
 MBL's
new and astounding statement loudspeaker did
just that! Jurgen Reis (photo) looks like a
proud dad here with his latest creation. The
101 Xs sort of resemble siamese twin 101E's
joined at the tweeter. The nice thing about
this loudspeaker is the woofer section is both
powerfully dynamic, self-powered and provided
some of the lowest bass I've EVER heard. This
had to be the most packed room I witnessed at
the show and with an asking price between
$150k -$200k, I'm not sure they'll be flying
out of the door. But I'll say, considering
what I heard these monsters do dynamically,
and what I've known the 101E Radialstrahler's
to be capable of, I personally would consider
this among my favorite of statement products.
This all MBL assault on the senses sounded
only near state of the art on Tuesday
afternoon (which could be expected at trade
shows) but had transformed by Wednesday
evening. Electronics were the impressive 9011
mono amps ($75k), the 6010 preamp ($20k) and
that $42k digital stack composed of the
1622/1611 transport/dac combo.
 Zanden
Audio had their entire arsenal on hand and sounding
better than I can remember from previous
shows. Showing again with the Ascendo System Z
(without stands), this loudspeaker is slowly
becoming a favorite among tube designers such
as Ken Stevens of CAT and Kazutoshi Yamada San
of Zanden (photo right). If I'm not mistaken,
I could have swore I saw the new Zanden model
9600, 845-tube mono amps ($45k) being driven
by new tubes from KR Audio. In addition, their
new CD player ($15k) debuted as another
elegant design in the growing list of bronze
colored Zanden products. The first day we
listened to the reference model 2000 transport
($29k) but were pleasantly surprised to find
the new CD player in its big brother's place.
I found the sound very relaxing; a major
ingredient to Yamada's value in his designs.
Overall, I think this may be their most
successful product to date because it has that
wonderfully rich Zanden quality but doesn't
cost half as much as the Zanden's reference
$42k transport/DAC combo.
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