News

In his review of the Conrad-Johnson Premier Twelve monoblock amplifier, Michael Fremer notes, "Conrad-Johnson is one of audio's 'marquee' companies, and charges accordingly." MF uncovers what you really get for your $7000, aside from 140Wpc and a top-shelf name.

The year was 1986 and CD players were still in short pants. John Atkinson reviewed the California Audio Labs Tempest CD player (his first review for Stereophile!) and wrote, "Now, at least, it should be possible to enjoy CD without guilt." In his review, JA dissects the Philips-based machine, exploring one of the earliest examples of an audiophile-friendly CD player.

Starting in 1976 and then again in 1984 and 1985, J. Gordon Holt and Sam Tellig took turns listening to the Quad 405 power amplifier. Why the attraction? Tellig writes, "For me, the exciting thing about Quad components is that they offer a true alternative to typical hi-fi equipment."

In his "As We See It" from May of 1995, John Atkinson discusses the realities of Perfect Sound Forever? He also does some digital navel-gazing and predicts DVD-Audio. Well, sort of.

As a bonus, we also include Sam Tellig's take on the AcousTech PH-1P Premium phono stage. Tellig does an upgrade and notes whether or not you should, too.

Finally, this week's addition to our "Recording of the Month" series for the online archives from 1997, July 1997: Charles Lloyd: Canto. Thomas Conrad listens to the tenor sax player who once walked away from fame to search for the "inner life."