It is with great sadness that I report that Howard Mandel, the main man of manufacturer Altis Audio, passed away on September 27 after a long battle with, I believe, leukemia. No age was given in his obituary in the Danbury News Times (CT), but I believe Howard was in his early 50s.

Like many in high-end audio, Howard had followed his passion for music by turning it into a career, with Altis Audio specializing in digital playback components. I last chatted with Howard at the 2001 CES in Las Vegas, and his spirit and his energy seemed as high as they ever had been. According to the Danbury News Times, Howard's love for his son Michael was the source of his strength and determination. I am given to understand that Altis Audio is to continue under the direction of Howard's widow, Joann.

Funeral services were held Sunday, September 30 at the United Jewish Center Cemetery in Brookfield, CT. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Danbury Hospital Development Fund, at 24 Hospital Ave., Danbury, CT 06810, benefiting the Oncology Unit (8 East) or the intensive care unit.