Computer Audio Reviews

Computer: Pentium MMX 166MHz with 39GB of hard drive, running Windows 98, WinAmp 2.5, and CoolEdit 2000. Comparison soundcards included an ancient Soundblaster 16 and a 24/96 Digi96/8 Pro from German company RME.
Digital source: Mark Levinson No.31.5 CD transport and No.30.6 D/A processor, connected with Illuminations Orchid AES/EBU datalink; dCS 972 upsampler, Panasonic A-120 and California Audio Labs CL-20 DVD players, Meridian 500 CD transport, Musical Fidelity X-24K 24/96 D/A processor.
Preamplification: Mark Levinson No.380S, Z-Systems rdp-1 (updated to handle 96kHz sources).
Power amplifiers: Mark Levinson No.33H monoblocks, Yamaha @PET RP-U100 desktop receiver.
Loudspeakers: B&W Silver Signature, Mirage MRM-1, Thiel PCS, Evett & Shaw Elan, PSB Alpha A/V, Acoustic Energy Aegis One, Dunlavy SC-IV/A, Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk.II, Joseph Audio RM7si Signature.
Cables: Canare balanced with TRS and XLR connectors, Madrigal CZ Gel-1 balanced interconnects; AudioQuest Sterling and CV-4, Goertz AG3 Divinity, Symo, and Cardas Cross loudspeaker cables.
Accessories: Stax Lambda Pro headphones with SRM-T1S tube amplifier; PS Audio Power Plant 300 at 90Hz (preamps only), Audio Power Industries 116 Mk.II and PE-1 AC line conditioners (not power amps), ASC Tube Traps, RPG Abffusors, 24" Celestion speaker stands (when required), their pillars filled with lead shot and coupled to the speakers with dabs of Blu-Tack.—John Atkinson