RMAF 2011

Avatar Acoustics’ Darren Censullo always puts together an impressive system. Every aspect seems carefully considered, made to complement the whole.

Rosso Fiorentino Sienna loudspeakers ($26,995/pair); Dr. Feickert Analogue Blackbird turntable ($7995) with DFA 12.0 tonearm ($1495); AMR CD-77.1 CD player ($10,995), PH-77 phono preamp ($11,995), AM-77.1 integrated amplifier in mono-vertical biamp mode ($9995), and DP-777 DAC ($4995); AMI-HIFI Mini Server music player ($2995). Accessories included Acoustic System International cables, interconnects, power cords, equipment racks, and feet. Power distributors and wall outlets were Avatar’s own.

Censullo played a couple of interesting electronic tracks for me and the sound was super punchy with impressive low-end weight and impact; with more traditional material, the system showed off its delicacy and nuance, presenting a good sense of the recorded space.