Stereophile Staff

<A HREF="http://www.cirrus.com"&gt; Cirrus Logic</A> has initiated cutbacks in its workforce and other cost-reduction moves that are expected to save as much as $12 million annually. The Austin, TX&ndash;based semiconductor company stated May 15 that the measures are part of a general restructuring of its business model, in which its magnetic storage chip business will be de-emphasized in favor of its semiconductor business. Cirrus is the parent company of Crystal Semiconductor, maker of many high-performance digital audio chips.

Mark Levinson has traveled from Woodstock to the Whitney, and Michael Fremer lends an ear to his <A HREF="http://www.stereophile.com//loudspeakerreviews/350/">Red Rose Music R3 loudspeaker</A> to determine if the journey was a fruitful one. As Fremer characterizes it, "If Levinson's Cello foray was <I>haute monde</I>, Red Rose is Dockers: loose-fitting and relaxed."

The Home Entertainment 2001 show, held in New York City May 11&ndash;13, 2001, received high marks and a standing ovation from show attendees, who came to experience some of the most innovative and exciting consumer electronics products in decades.

Analog playback equipment, the high art of 20th century audio, will be the theme of the "Analog Ballroom" in the Regent Parlor on the 2nd Floor of the New York Hilton during <A HREF="http://www.homeentertainment-expo.com/">Home Entertainment 2001</A>.

Home Entertainment 2001 arrives at the Hilton Hotel & Towers in New York this week for three days, May 11-13. There will be more than 80 rooms stuffed with the latest high end audio and video gear, including dozens of brand new products. For more information about the show, go to the <A HREF="http://www.homeentertainment-expo.com">HE 2001 website</A>.

Jonathan Scull asks "What's it take to compete on the bleeding edge of digital?" Apparently more than what's offered by the "large international manufacturing and marketing concerns stalking the earth today." Will the <A HREF="http://www.stereophile.com//digitalsourcereviews/340/">Accuphase DP-100 Super Audio CD transport & DC-101 Digital Processor</A> make the cut? Scull's incisive report reveals all.

Sam Tellig may apologize for contributing to the audiophile empty wallet syndrome, but that doesn't stop him from ranking the <A HREF="http://www.stereophile.com//digitalsourcereviews/339/">Monarchy Audio Digital Interface Processor 24/96</A> "a must-have if you want to get the most from your upsampling MSB Link DAC III."