UltraAnalog ’s new dual 20-bit audio DAC subsystem, the DAC D20200, re quires no external components or trimming and is specified over the entire 20Hz to 20kHz audio frequency range.
The converter features a universal serial interface circuit, internal reference, distortion suppressors, and two independent channels. Applications include up grades of 16-bit digital audio systems, digital multitrack recorders, digital audio workstations, direct-to-disk re cording, digital audio tape, and synthesizers. Single quantity price is $295; quantities of 1,000 are $159 each. For more information contact Steve Canning, UltraAnalog Inc., 47853 Warm Springs Blvd., PO Box 14164, Fremont, CA 94539; (415) 657-2227, FAX: (415) 657-4225.
Benchmark Media Systems’ new IFA Interface Amplifier series is designed to accommodate a wide range of interface needs with eight modular devices; for example, the IFA-1 offers a stereo balance to unbalanced input and output interface, and the IFA-8, a quad balance input to unbalanced output amp. Each system is housed in a small modem style chassis, three of which can be rack mounted side by side in a single rack.
As many as four modules can be powered from a single power supply via RJ11 modular plugs.
Each balanced output device has a variable gain from ‘off ’ to as high as 26dB. Independent tests by groups such as National Public Radio have shown the Benchmark IFA series to have the highest performance of any interface amplifiers. The PS-11, a 300mA, * 18V regulated power supply, is available also. For more information contact David May or Allen Burdick, Benchmark Media Systems Inc., 3817 Brewerton Rd., North Syracuse, NY 13212; (315) 452-0400.
Four new component interconnect-cable grades are being marketed by Signet. Each grade is prepackaged in pairs with heavy-duty, gold-plated RCA connectors and designed to deliver maximum performance within its price range. Maximum Transfer Standard interconnect cable features oxygen-free cop per stranding, foam dielectric and braid ed shield. Prices per length (feet) are: $25 (1.5), $28 (3), $34 (6) and $46 (12).
Each channel of Signet’s Advanced interconnect additionally contains seven groups of oxygen-free, rope-lay copper strands. These are available for $40 (1.5), $45 (3), and $57 (6).
The Premium interconnect uses conductors of copper produced by the Ohno Continuous Casting (PCOCC) process, a technique that uses a special high temperature extrusion die to yield cop per with virtually no transverse crystal barriers to impede signal transmission or color sound. These interconnects also have the shielding of the lower-grade cables. Prices are $60 (1.5), $70 (3) and $85 (6).
The Ultimate interconnect, in addition to the attributes of the Premium, uses braided PCOCC copper for the shield. Lengths are 1.5, 3 and 6 feet and cost $60, $125 and $150, respectively.
In an unrelated move Signet has gained US distribution rights to the Audio-Technica OC9 moving-coil phonograph cartridge. According to the company, the OC?9 delivers a transparent, three-dimensional soundstage on which instruments and voices appear to be positioned precisely, made possible by using a dual moving Microcoil made of PCOCC copper. High-efficiency samarium cobalt magnets are used to increase magnetic polar density and improve electrical generation. The OC9 ’s stylus is an ultra-miniature nude 0.2 x 0.7mil elliptical diamond fastened to a gold-plated beryllium cantilever. The cartridge housing is machined from a nonferrous alloy with a sapphire coating originally developed by NASA, providing a rigid nonresonant platform for the cartridge ’s moving system. For further information contact Signet, 4701 Hudson Dr., Stow, OH 44224; (216) 688-9400.
Several new products have been announced by Monster Cable, a manufacturer of high-performance audio interconnect and loudspeaker cable. The T-Series Turbine connector is an RCA type, redesigned with a massive ground connection utilizing a series of 12 diagonal cuts along its circumference. Multiple points maximize contact area and allow a more complete transfer area of the audio signal. The connector also features the Monster split-center pin construction and 24k hard-gold plating. The price is $35/pair. A new Interlink CD cable is offered to provide improved performance for entry level CD systems, which come equipped with ordinary connecting wire. It features two high-performance strandings, plus a shield, to handle the sonic qualities most CDs are capable of delivering. Price: $29.95/pair, 1m; $39.95/pair, 2m; $76/ pair, 20 ft.
Monster Video 2 is designed for improved video picture quality, signal transfer and protection from interference, for VCRs, VHS and Beta players, laserdisc players, video-based digital audio recorders, digital-to-digital connections, TV receivers, HD monitors, projection TV, or satellite dish equipment and programming. The construction uses a multi stranded copper center conductor, double shielding of braid and conductive plastic, and is wrapped with low-loss dielectrics. For more information contact: Monster Cable Products Inc., 101 Townsend St., San Francisco, CA 94107, or call Gary Reber, Los Angeles Division, (213) 322-8200.
A new turntable is available that plays the original (71.29 rpm) Berliner Gramophone record. Produced by Esoteric Sound, the multispeed phonograph disk player reproduces modern LPs, 78s and vintage records. Based on a Japanese product, the Vintage turntable has a belt drive, DC servo motor, p-mount pickup system and pitch control, and features six switch-selectable speeds: 33, 45, 71.29, 76.59, 78.26 and 80 rpm. Accessories include a coarse groove stylus and vertical/lateral switch. Price is $229. To order or request literature write to Esoteric Sound, 4813 Wallbank Ave. Downers Grove, IL 60515.
The growing interest in MIDI and musical electronics prompted the publication by Music Sales of the latest book by Craig Anderton, The Electronic Musician ’s Dictionary, which gives concise explanations of technical terms, as well as the latest slang expressions and jargon. The 119- page book is intended for experienced musicians, audiophiles and beginners alike. For more information, contact Music Sales Corp., 24 E. 22nd St., New York, NY 10010, (212) 254-2100.
LE Pro-Wipes, a new, patented, disposable lint-free wipe for cleaning CDs, is now available from KMD Labs. The wipes use a formula developed for cleaning aerospace instruments, are claimed to be absolutely lint-free, will not scratch discs, and will remove fingerprints and oils in accordance with CD manufacturing cleaning instructions. Pro-Wipes are sold in packs of 12 for $5. For more information, or product samples, contact: KMD Labs Inc., 1212 N. San Fernando Blvd., Suite 226, Burbank CA, 91504-4298; Steve Harter, National Marketing Director, (213) 434-1076.
Also, Nakamichi has redesigned the PA-7 and PA-5 Inherently Stable/Uniform Impedance STASIS Power Amplifiers. The PA-711 and PA-511 have in creased continuous power ratings and output current capability, while retaining the STASIS topology of their predecessors.
The PA-711 offers 225W/channel and can supply peak currents of 90A/ channel. The PA-511 delivers 150W/channel continuously, with a peak current of 70A/channel. The amplifiers also use new voltage amplifier stages, based on the topology used in the Nakamichi CA-7 Control Amplifier, and differentially balanced for inherent rejection of even-order distortion and superior transparency and imaging. Oxygen-free copper wiring is used for each signal, power and circuit board trace.
For more information in the US contact Tammy Dalbec, Marketing Manager, Nakamichi America Corp.; (213) 538-8150. In Canada, contact Steven Suda (604) 324-7535.
Also see:
A SIMPLE HIGH-QUALITY CD OUTPUT AMP, By Jan Didden
AC SENSING CONTROL, By LB. Dalzell
TEST REPORT, By Fernando Garcia Viesca