Valerio Cora (Acora Acoustics/Audio Research), Kevin Hayes (VAC), and Mat Weisfeld (VPI) worked the halls in Munich with the confidence of seasoned entrepreneurs, showcasing their US-made gear at the world's biggest high-end audio show.
The system featured a VPI Avenger Direct turntable fitted with a FatBoy Gimbal 12-3D tonearm ($36,000 for the combo), which I reviewed for Stereophile. The tonearm carried a Hana Umami Red low-output moving-coil (MC) cartridge ($3950). Digital sources included an Esoteric N-01XD SE network streamer ($25,000) and an Esoteric Grandioso K1X SE SACD/CD player ($42,000). A VPI Vanquish stand supported the 'table.
In operation were VAC's Statement Phono Stage ($82,000), Statement Line Preamplifier ($82,000), and a pair of Statement 452 iQ Musicbloc amplifiers ($164,000/pair). On static display sat the VAC Master Preamplifier ($30,000), Signature 202 iQ Musicbloc amplifier ($22,000), Essence Line Stage ($9000), and Essence 90 iQ Monobloc amplifiers ($9990).
VAC amplification powered Cora's Acora VRC loudspeakers ($218,000/pair) in the striking Sunset Fire finish, with Cardas Clear Beyond cables tying the rig together. The system delivered the superior articulation and clarity I've come to expect from these manufacturers.
In operation were VAC's Statement Phono Stage ($82,000), Statement Line Preamplifier ($82,000), and a pair of Statement 452 iQ Musicbloc amplifiers ($164,000/pair). On static display sat the VAC Master Preamplifier ($30,000), Signature 202 iQ Musicbloc amplifier ($22,000), Essence Line Stage ($9000), and Essence 90 iQ Monobloc amplifiers ($9990).
