Our guest, Klaus Peter Brinsa, Senior Export Manager with WBT, told us about the new products and the company’s plans for the nearest future. Though Enigma staff knows WBT products pretty well, everybody showed vivid interest in special demo plates, illustrating the inside of the connectors.

It is our pleasure to announce that Peter kindly presented us this splendid demo material. We invite everyone interested in closer acquaintance with WBT come to our office and use this unique opportunity to familiarize with these top-class connectors in detail.

To date Pronto model range includes three universal touch-screen remotes (TSU9600, TSU7500, TSU3500) and three RF extenders (RFX9400, RFX9600, RFX6500/LI910). The differences between TSU7500 and TSU3500 are the color of the screen (color and monochrome) and flash memory size (32 Mb and 4 Mb). Top-model TSU9600 has the best graphics on the market, ergonomic design as well as media server and lighting control compatibility.

All three models provide control over custom single zone or multi-room entertainment systems. Extensive code library and code learning capability ensure Pronto compatibility with virtually any audio and video component. Due to proven software, the remotes are easy and fast to program, while RF extenders widen Pronto possibilities in multi-room and concealed equipment installations.

Pronto universal remotes are ideal partners for system integrators. Please find the details at our web-site.

THX ensures that certified displays and projectors can perform to the rigorous standards outlined in the THX Certified Display program. The THX program promises that HD and standard definition content will be presented with the correct color, luminance levels and video processing capabilities, regardless of the display category or technology (DLP, LCD, plasma, front/rear projection).

One can say a lot about loudspeaker specifications and say nothing. At the same time, listening to the music you can understand a lot of things. That was the reason why after short introduction to Linn history and philosophy followed the music session. As a result nobody left nonchalant. The difference in music tastes and genres did not matter.

Music, song and dance are essential for human wellbeing. At Linn people believe that sound reproduced above a certain standard can transform the way we live. The main idea is simple: how you feel about what you see depends mainly upon what you hear.

They say that the first listening to the electrostatic speakers usually ends up in either love or dislike. Among the attendees of our seminar there were no indifferent people. On the contrary, many dealers already had positive experience with these unusual speakers. There was true interest supported by the question-answer format of communication.

Enigma has been representing MartinLogan for more than eight years. In this period, MartinLogan electrostatic speakers proved to comply with the highest standards. The devotion of our clients is the best argument.

Majik CD player – the source of the signal – comprises technologies derived from Linn’s ground-breaking and critically acclaimed Sondek CD12.

Stereo, analogue pre-amplifier Majik Kontrol has six stereo analogue inputs, phono stage for MM and MC cartridges and independent record path to allow you to continue to enjoy your music without interrupting a recording.

The system’s third component Majik 2100 amplifier exploits Linn’s proprietary Chakra amplifier technology, which delivers a superior, more controlled and efficient audio performance than other amplifier technologies. 4 mm binding posts ensure solid electrical contact.

Each system component has its own Switch Mode Power Supply, which runs much more efficiently and quietly than other power supplies.

Majik system is modular and expandable, and can be upgraded to go AKTIV. The whole system is multi-room enabled so that you can enjoy the best sound quality throughout your home as part of a Linn Knekt multi-room system.

Advancement of the UNO, which is extremely popular in Ukraine, caused a real sensation. Classic UNO is replaced by the new entry level model – UNO NANO. Regarding the quality of the components, it is identical to the DUO, but with smaller horns. This makes the UNO NANO significantly more compact than the old UNO. It consists of a 5 inch driver with 500mm horn and a 1 inch driver with 130mm horn. Active subwoofer SUB225CTRL-N is exactly the same as the DUO subwoofer, but in a different bass cabinet. As a result of using bigger drivers in the midrange (compared to the old UNO), the efficiency has been increased to 104dB. So the UNO NANO has about the same dynamic range as the DUO, which is very good for High End home theater.

UNO NANO is an ideal solution for those who like the open Avantgarde sound, but to whom the DUO is simply too big. Besides, its small size and elegance make it indispensable for the life style interiors.

There is a number of relatively easy methods for voltage stabilization. The most popular among them are voltage regeneration systems and chosen voltage locked principles. Upon the analysis of the flows of these two methods IsoTek developed its own solution called Zero Locking Voltage Principle.

Like other IsoTek components, Sentinel voltage regulation systems do not affect sound performance. Furthermore, they are able to work both independently and combined with other mains conditioners. The Sentinel series deliver at least 1000 watts and have huge transient capability, allowing up to 14000 watts of transient power. This have been achieved by the direct coupled principles of mains filter design invented by IsoTek and extensively utilized in the multi award winning Titan.

The CL-420 features Enhanced GEN 3 technologies that produce deeper blacks, greater contrast ratio and brightness, and richly saturated color. Runco International has implemented a host of advances into the CL-420 projector’s light engine to take full advantage of its cutting-edge DMD™ chip.

Among the CL-420’s features are a sophisticated color-balancing system that results in the industry’s best gray scale tracking and far surpasses the capabilities of CRT projectors. Accurate gray scale reproduction is vital to vibrant, true-to-life color reproduction, as well as deep black-level and pure white-level performance.

The CL-420 features a native resolution of 1280 x 720 and supports DVI outputs found in today’s newest hi-performance video sources. This ensures owners will enjoy years of spectacular widescreen images. In addition, the projector’s horizontal and vertical lens shift, variable throw distance, and keystone correction allow for flexible placement within virtually any home environment. Discrete IR and RS-232 controls make it simple to integrate the CL-420’s functionality with other audio & video components for automated performance. By combining a highly efficient optical light engine with broad installation and integration options, the CL-420 establishes a singular balance between performance and affordability.

Most technological advances initially developed for Summit were implemented in the new model: XStat electrostatic transducer, ultra-rigid AirFrame, ClearSpar spacers, MicroPerf stator technology, low-distortion aluminum cone woofer, hand-build precision crossover topology, and ETC spikes.

Vista is an exemplary stereo and home theater performer – as a front or surround speaker. Available in a variety of hand rubbed wood finishes it can be personalized and customized to match any decor.

After the presentation of the most interesting new products, Enigma’s President Igor Tiutiunyk introduced his own philosophy of luxury sales.

On the first day we all had great pleasure to meet Runco representatives – Greg Caves, Director of North American Sales, Ron Mounts, International Sales Account Manager, and Pat Bradley, one of the top video calibrationists in North America.

Mr. Caves made an introduction into Runco philosophy following with the overview of the most popular products. Pad Bradley proceeded with the highly valuable practical advices on video projector and plasma display calibration. The audience was truly excited with the presentation of the new CineWide technology afoot, which was a culmination of the Runco seminar.

It is always a challenge to continue a seminar on the second day. Keith Martin, one of the IsoTek founders, accepted it and succeeded in keeping the audience interested from the beginning till the end of his presentation. After a brief review of the IsoTek product range, Keith introduced a couple of new longed-for products – Aquarii & Centauri voltage regulation systems. Later on the theoretical statements were proved during the demo section. Everybody heard that the system with IsoTek sounds better than without it.

We would like to thank both our guests and our dealers for coming and doing very important job. The most significant for us is that nobody left disappointed. On the contrary, everyone learned something new, got bright impressions, and approached very close the best of the best.

The new Evolution 600 and Evolution 900 amplifiers are monaural designs. Their power supplies are housed in the same chassis. Both feature proprietary CAST circuitry allowing the signal to remain in the current domain from input to output. Other Evolution amplifiers include the Evolution 402 – a 400-watt stereo amplifier, and Evolution 403 – a 400-watt 3-channel amplifier.

Evolution 525, Krell’s first SACD/CD/DVD player is, simply put, the most advanced DVD player on the market. Utilizing National Semiconductor’s AVC 2510 Dual-Channel video format converter, the 525 will be able to output 1080p (1920 x 1980p) via HDMI. An audio only version is also available as the Evolution 505.

Evolution 707 processor is packed with Krell’s legendary processing power and 8.4 total channels of surround sound featuring 24-bit/192-kHz digital to analog converters for each channel. All of the latest digital surround sound formats are supported and the 707’s modular design allows for easy future upgrades should new surround sound formats arise.

Evolution 202 utilizes a separate chassis for its power supply. Bandwidth of the 202 is a rated at a staggering 1.5 MHz and is an open loop bandwidth design using a zero negative feedback. 202 also features an RS-232 port, IR and 12-volt controls for better integration into a state-of-the-art home environment. The Evolution 222 brings the advanced technologies and inspired design of the Evolution 202 to single chassis format. Power supply is housed in the same chassis.

All new models represent the culmination of 25-years of Krell design and manufacturing excellence. The new company motto confirms it: "New from Krell, classic from Krell"

Each Runco projector equipped with CineWide with AutoScope is enhanced not only with a new lens configuration but also with software, which is programmed to ensure uncompromised widescreen reproduction of movies originally filmed in the CinemaScope 2.35:1 format. Each projector is also able to fully maintain all high-definition resolution or upgrade pictures to virtual high-definition for widescreen projection. Runco currently offers CineWide with AutoScope as an option for the following Video Xtreme 3-chip DLP projectors: VX-2c, VX-50d, VX-40d.

Introducing totally new EVO line, expanding the award-winning Evolution series, Krell became the primary newsmaker. Runco accented on its new CineWide technology, allowing experiencing any film in 2.35:1 cinema standard aspect ratio. It’s fascinating! To attend Runco VX-2 CineWide exposition combined with Krell electronics people had to stand in line almost for an hour.

Featuring new proprietary design, Martin Logan Vista loudspeakers will substitute Aeon in several months. The new Abyss subwoofer will fit the niche between Grotto and Dynamo. Avantgarde Acoustic exhibited the new Duo Omega with its proprietary reference electronics, while Sonance impressed the visitors with the invisible Sound Advance speakers.

New Mariners possess much improved technical specifications. FastMount mounting system allows pivoting the speaker 180 degrees and fixing it with indexed positioning system. Sonance has also incorporated its new PACT (Protected Access Connection Terminal) cable routing system. While offering greater protection of the terminal connections from moisture and debris, it also makes installation faster and hassle-free, for the terminals are located in a compartment on front of the speaker.

As the new speakers became bigger, their sound became stronger. Compared to older models, woofers have an enlarged diameter. Specifically, the flagship model, the Mariner 82, offers a full 8-inch woofer, among the largest woofers in its class.

Being an immediate successor of Martin Logan best seller Ascent i, the new loudspeaker boasts of containing all Summit’s state-of-the-art technologies. These are PoweredForce™ subwoofer technology, XStat™ transducer and ultra rigid AirFrame™, MicroPerf™ stator technology, ClearSpars™ spacers, as well as the ultimate Vojtko™ crossover. Besides, Vantage is supplied with ETC (Energy Transfer Coupler) spikes which maximize low frequency performance.

The main difference between the two speakers is that compressing Summit’s groundbreaking technologies, Vantage fitted into surprisingly compact package and price.

The most special thing about new cables is their price, which is quite unusual for Nordost. In spite of that they feature Nordost proprietary Micro Mono-Filament technology found in Valhalla reference cables. Thus the new ones approach the legendary quality of Nordost top-models.

The new cables specifications can be found at www.nordost.com

Comments on the sound? Please read: "...unbelievable - from the first notes on!", "... worth every extra cent...", "...I did not expect such an improvement to my 8-ohm DUO!" etc. In one word: the DUO OMEGA is much more than just a renovated DUO.

Hi-Fi Choice commented, "The quality of the mains electricity that you feed your Hi-Fi can have a profound effect on its sound, as IsoTek knows. The company specialises in products designed to optimise mains quality, and this year it has introduced some excellent new conditioners, including the high-end Nova and Titan. But for our Gold Award we’ve returned to favourite - the GII Mini Sub."

The PCL300 system comes in the form of a small hardware unit (fits in the palm of your hand) that connects to a Windows PC via USB connection and software loaded by CD. Once loaded, the software enables the system to either upload data from the Omega (MX650) or Osiris (MX350) remotes for archiving, or download data from the Internet for upgrades to the remotes.

In addition, preprogrammed templates make customizing smaller systems or systems that require extensive label customization much faster and more efficient to program.

By combining a highly efficient optical light engine with broad installation and integration options, the CL-410 establishes the perfect balance between performance and affordability.

The new projector features advanced GEN3™ technology, industry’s best gray scale tracking and Vivix™ video processing as well as broad lens shift, variable throw distance, and keystone correction. For details please follow this link.

Retail price $4680.

This time Avantgarde Acoustic created something unbelievable. The new speaker, Meta, is fully hornloaded – from top to bottom.

Featuring Omega driver technology (first established with TRIO Omega) and ADRIC amplification technology (first established with BassHorn), the META truly sets a new standard for compact sized fully hornloaded (yes, there is a horn loaded bass on board!) speaker systems.

Meta should be heard. Any words can not tell its true impact on listener. The presence effect is too weak as a definition to describe it. Fascinating sound takes you out of reality to the very centre of the sound image. The music performer seems to be very close. You almost see him touching the instrument. It’s a true magic! Come to Enigma and experience Meta.

Barely had we started getting used to Brahma and Thor, Nordost was ready with the new surprises to excite High-End enthusiasts. On June 21, the company’s permanent representative Lars Kristensen introduced three new Reference interconnects in Enigma. The new cables are named after the gods of Norse mythology – Heimdall, Frey and Tyr.

Heimdall and Frey use Nordost’s proprietary Mono-Filament technology. Higher price category Tyr uses Dual Mono-Filament technology similar to that developed for the Valhalla Reference power cable. All three interconnects are terminated with WBT NextGen gold plated copper connectors.

In September Nordost promises to present Baldur – one more reference interconnect – along with the line of speaker cables having the same names as the interconnects. Technical specifications of the new cables will appear on our web-site soon.

The Evolution One amplifier is the result of Dan D’Agostino’s unrelenting pursuit of the most realistic musical reproduction possible in the home. Immensely powerful, the Evolution One is a monaural design that features a separate power supply for each channel. Stunning aesthetics hint at the advanced amplifier circuitry housed within its walls. The 450 watt Class A circuitry features the latest advancements in Krell amplifier design including the proprietary Krell Current Mode topology and the latest versions of the Krell Sustained Plateau Bias and CAST circuitries.

The Evolution Two preamplifier is the ultimate expression of Krell preamplifier technology. A monaural preamplifier with a separate power supply, the Evolution Two is capable of rendering a near lifelike soundstage with stunning detail and presence. The balanced, zero feedback, proprietary Krell Current Mode and CAST circuitries results in a two megahertz open loop bandwidth that guarantees near perfection in the critical listening spectrum.

The Brahma power cable is constructed employing five mono-filament conductors, each being 16 AWG, solid core, silver plated, Oxygen Free Copper. The conductors are ultrasonically cleaned and highly polished before, and after, they are extruded with silver. The Brahma cable has a propagation speed of over 85% the speed of light.

The cable is terminated with the Wattgate, 320 IEC A/C connector. The contacts are high quality Oxygen Free Copper for improved and lasting conductivity. This also eliminates contact stress, heat cycling and vibration. At the other end Brahma is terminated with a military grade 13 amp mains plug.

The Brahma power cable is priced between the Vishnu and Valhalla power cables.

Lutron is the world leader in manufacturing, installation and service of lighting control systems. The company offers more than 10,000 products to satisfy virtually any residential or commercial project. Its products adjust the intensity of virtually every kind of light. To this day Lutron remains the only company that provides an integrated solution for controlling both natural daylight as well as electrical lighting.

The audience was really impressed by the demo of the Thor. The question was: “How the sound can be better than absolutely perfect?” We can possibly get the answer in a year. But now you are welcome to Enigma! All the novelties are already in the shop.

PoweredForce™ bass technology results in usable bass extension down to 20 Hz, immense bass dynamics and precision – all from an enclosure not much larger than a case of wine. Low-frequency equalization capabilities allow precision calibration for optimal room integration.

The Summit’s new XStat™ transducer is housed within an ultra-rigid extruded aluminum AirFrame™. MicroPerf technology reveals more open playable area in each panel equal to that of a traditional electrostatic transducer nearly twice its size.

Summit exploits several components originally engineered for the reference Statement e2 loudspeaker. These are ClearSpars™ spacers and proprietary Vojtko crossover. Featuring a number of outstanding components and state-of-the-art technologies the new MartinLogan loudspeaker tends to be a real masterpiece in the electrostatics world.

CES 2005 was no exception. As always there were good sounding systems, exciting new products, nice meetings and big parties.

Krell proudly unveiled brand new Evolution One monaural power amplifier and Evolution Two monaural preamplifier and also renewed LAT series. Avantgarde Acousitcs introduced new META – metamorphosis of the Avantgarde Basshorn Technology and Avantgarde spherical horn technology as well as reference amplifiers ONE.P and ONE.A. New Summit from Martin Logan that replaced Prodigy and Odyssey were just stunning. Linn made an outstanding demonstration of new elegant Artikulate speakers. Runco impressed the public first with the price of the new Siganature Cinema Projector and then with its picture quality. Nordost introduced one more power cord named Brahma and also presented the Thor – new power distribution unit, which is the company’s joint project with IsoTek. MIT brought out the complete line of new budget cables. Eben X-3 loudspeaker won the Jimmy Awards.

These were the most exciting things at the Show for us. More to follow.

The unit is wired throughout with the highly regarded and acclaimed Nordost Valhalla mains cable to achieve the optimum signal transfer and performance. It also features IsoTek’s Polaris-X circuit technology, a proprietary system that shunts mains borne noise to earth. Quantum QRT Resonance Technology is also used; this is a proprietary material treatment system, which by the use of cutting edge technologies minimizes environmental electrical resonance noise. Besides, the new power distribution unit is a highly upgradeable solution to mains distributions.

With all abovementioned benefits Thor offers an unparalleled solution to advanced power distribution.