AXPONA 2013

Booth exhibits occupied much of the open space on the Doubletree's mezzanine level. First on my path was Sumiko's, where Jaime Moreno declared the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon turntable ($399.99) "probably the best turntable available for under $400." The table, which can play either 33/45 or 33/78, comes complete with an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, which costs $99 on its own. Best $498.99 turntable package for under $400?

Making its consumer show debut was the Pro-ject Phono Box DS (approx. $499), which takes its place alongside the relatively new Head Box DS with built-in DAC ($379). Also on display were Pro-Ject's Speaker Box 5, Hear It headphones ($129), and modular tuner with USB input.