Capital AudioFest 2024

Christopher Hildebrand, the man behind Fern & Roby, is a bit of a romantic. He's got that same sentimental streak I do, a deep appreciation for the simple things – music, books, and the love of family. It's no surprise, then, that he's poured his heart into his unique audio creations, honoring the memory of his grandmothers, Fern and Roby.

When I look at Hildebrand’s equipment—from his Montrose Heirloom Turntable with Schröder CB Ebony Tonearm ($16,500), Fern & Roby Amp No. 2 Integrated Amp ($6950/show special), driving Fern & Roby The Raven II loudspeakers (in Ash) ($5450/pair), supported by Fern & Roby Isolating Speaker Stands ($1650/pair)—I feel a sense of authenticity, of conviction and craftsmanship.

Hildebrand is no one-trick designer after all. Never mind his entire line, he also makes important parts for DeVore Fidelity and other respected brands.

The rest of Hildebrand’s CAF rig included a Miyajima Carbon Cartridge ($2999) fed into a W ModWright PH9.0X phono stage ($4750). Digital was represented by Weiss Helios DAC ($21,995), and a Network Acoustics Tempus Switch ($4325) and a Network Acoustics Eno2 Filter ($1075).

Cables included Black Cat Cable Graceline Level 2 (1m) XLR ($2495/pair), Graceline Level 2 (3m) Speaker cables ($3595/pair), and Graceline Level 2 (1m) RCA ($5950/pair). Finalized by a Fern & Roby Equipment Rack #1 (in Ash) ($5950).

Spinning vinyl from Marvin Gaye (Let’s Get It On), The Wailers (Catch A Fire), and Last of the Mohicans soundtrack, the music washed over me like a good whisky, permeating my senses, filling my nostrils, soothing my show-frazzled soul.