Introduction Not surprisingly, multi-channel systems are growing in popularity, especially with surround sound cinema and multi-channel music becoming more mainstream. In this era of high-resolution multi-channel media, each component must be capable of extracting all that these new formats deliver. The synergistic match between the electronic components and selected loudspeakers is no longer merely a desirable facet, but a prerequisite for any true reference-quality playback system. Lexicon, a Harman Specialty Group company, is fully aware of this, and has released the LX-7 seven-channel amplifier ($5,995.00), which is designed to excel with all types of media. Lexicon has devoted substantial engineering resources and technology to design products, such as their new series of processors, amplifiers, and a universal disc player, all of which have been designed to meet the expectations of today’s more demanding and sophisticated consumer. Intended to mate optimally with their MC-12 and MC-8 Digital Controllers, the LX-7 is equally capable of complementing any other manufacturers’ ...

Introduction Over the past couple of years, Anthem has risen from the shadows of Sonic Frontiers, its former big brother, to become a formidable brand for value conscious AV consumers. The PVA 2 is the latest in Anthem’s quest to provide high-performing, high-value electronics at a price point that the average person can afford. The PVA 2 is a 125-watts per channel, no-frills stereo amplifier that sells for $649. The PVA 2 measures 17.25 inches wide, is five-and-one-quarter inches tall, 11 inches deep and weighs 26 pounds. The PVA 2, like the rest of Anthem’s current line, features clean, unpretentious styling. The attractive yet simple front panel is manufactured from three-eighths of an inch thick, brushed aluminum, available in either silver or black. The face of the PVA 2 is decisively sparse, with nothing more than a logo, a power light and a button to power the amp. The remaining surfaces of the amplifier feature a ...

Introduction The Jolida JD-202A Level 1 Modification amplifier will most certainly capture the attention of those enthusiasts looking for performance tube gear that doesn’t require a armored truck delivery of funds to make it affordable. The modified JD-202A integrated amplifier is the latest product incarnation from high-end audio veteran Walter Liederman (co-founder of Hi-Fi Buys). Under his new company moniker “Underwood HiFi,” (formerly the Grahm Company) Liederman buys the stock JD-202A and has it modified at the Parts Connexion. This product takes its place beside other Liederman modified gems from Jolida and Shanling in the Underwood HiFi line. The amplifier in question starts life as a standard $750 Jolida JD-202A, then is shipped to The Parts Connexion, where it is extensively modified with tubes and components designed to substantially increase the performance of the product, all without dramatically increasing the price. The Jolida JD-202A with Level 1 mods is a 40-watt-per-channel stereo integrated amplifier that measures 12.5 inches ...

Introduction Movie buffs may remember the name Krell from the movie "Forbidden Planet," where the Krell were the most powerful race of an alien civilization. Krell Industries, manufacturer of some the world’s most exotic AV equipment, named its company after this superior species. Like Morbius, another “Forbidden Planet” character who sat in front of the Krell’s computer terminal trying to understand their science, I sit in front of Krell’s amplifier, learning about its science. The amplifier I’m talking about is the Krell FPB (Full Power Balanced) 400cx, Krell’s latest “mid-priced” offering in the FPB stereo amplifier line-up, priced at $10,500. The 400cx is rated at 400 watts per channel into eight ohms, 800 watts in four ohms and 1600 watts into two ohms. Upon unboxing the Krell FPB 400cx, I was immediately struck by its build quality. Weighing in at 110 pounds and measuring 19 inches wide, 10.3 inches tall and 19.7 inches deep, this ...

Introduction When purchasing automobiles, you are presented with a selection that varies from simple low-cost transportation merely designed to supply the most basic features and a means from point A to point B, to vehicles that are the very essence of performance and artistic expression. When purchasing audio/video products, you have an equally enchanting array of choices, designed to fit every budget and performance desire. The Mark Levinson No436 is a product designed for the audio/video enthusiast who demands nothing short of the highest performance that money can buy. Madrigal is no stranger to this level of performance with lines that include Revel and Proceed and are no stranger to me, as I own and use Revel Salon loudspeakers and the Mark Levinson No32 line-stage preamplifier in my reference system. The No436 is a rack-mountable 350-watt Class AB monaural power amplifier that measures 15.5 inches in width, 20.5 inches in depth and nearly a 4 RU ...