China 2006

XLH's SL-INS preamplifier ($5000). No, I didn't get a chance to hear them—Mr. Hou is still building his second AEF-1812, having sold his previous sets.

XLH's M-2000 monoblock power amplifier $25,000/pair).

Mr. Hou's tasty vintage Fender Jazz bass.

Mr. Hou's loft is stuffed with fun goodies, such as a drum set, keyboard rack—even a disco ball.

Since high-end audio isn't how Mr. Hou makes his living, he has his real factory elsewhere in the building. This is just his audio playground.

This is Hou Ying Zhong, of XLH.

I spotted this box of money by the door. "What's that?" I asked, "The tea fund?"