Capitol Audio Fest Speakers?


So what did everybody like at CAF?

I've never heard Tidal speakers before but was very impressed. No doubt they stoles the show. Both the ones for $20k and their big brothers. Amazing.

In the $4k range I was impressed with the Audionote J series. Granted they had $20k in electronics behind them but really sounded good. There was another $4k speaker floor stander made from carved reclaimed looking wood. Seemed like a prototype from a new company but I thought it was impressive looking and sounding for the price. Would have brought it home if I had the dosh.

In the Everyman category I thought The Clue speakers showed a lot of potential especially with their new bass module. But the room was way too small having to sit 4 feet in front of them. And once the rum started going later in the day the volume kept going up and up. But I have a feeling they could sound really good in the right room with good setup. The bass modules were just clue speakers without tweeters, but really increased bass authority and dimensionality. Really like adding two subs.
larrybou
Good call Grimace, I thought I was at the movies a couple of times. It was almost at breakpoint!!!

+1Salectric....nice to go home and hear the best sound of the day.
I thought there was some really interesting stuff to see at my first CAF. The vintage equipment and really large horn loaded systems were really fun though I can't imagine actually owning something like that I didn't always find the sound compelling. Since I'm a Daedalus guy I tried not to spend a lot of time in Lou's rooms but his new Muse in the smaller room on the sixth floor was so compelling that I couldn't tear myself away. At the price point (and well above) and given the ease of placement and exceptional sound I would have to say one of the best speakers at the show.
I was surprised how great the Zu setup sounded. "Take a walk on
N the wild side" sounded phenomenal. The Zu founder was extremely likable and very smart and engaging.

Maybe the Tidals sounded hifi but one of the best examples I've heard in a long time. Hearing the Mahler 6th selection was a mind (and ear) blowing example of unrestrained dynamics.

Haven't been to many audio shows but I was surprised by the lack of classical music being played. Nobody had any opera at all and there wasn't even much Dianne Krall. Way too much Steeley Dan and Fleetwood Mac tho.
"The good news for me was that the very best sound I heard all day was when I returned home and turned on the stereo that I already own."

Salectric,

After looking at your system profile, I have no doubt the above is a true statement.

Shakey