NYC Axpona Audio Show report

I just attended the audio show in NYC. I really enjoyed myself, but I was a bit disappointed in the sound of the various systems. However, two systems really stood out for me:

1. YG Acoustics, Solution, Brinkman, Air Tight (analog) GTT Audio Room
2. Scaena, new turntable?, SME 12" arm, Dynavector XV-1t (analog)

These two systems seemed very coherent, neutral and transparent. For me, they conveyed the emotion of large scale symphonic music very well. Lots of detail, dynamics and drama and above all, the clarity, timbre and scale reminiscent of good, live, classical music. They were VERY expensive systems though.

They were analog and I am biased toward that sound. Also the belt drive Brinkman Balance was on a Vibraplane and had the Air Tight Supreme cartridge that I use mounted on it. And the Scaena room had the new suspended belt drive table with two rotating platters (forgot the name) and the SME V-12 arm which I also own, so those components may have influenced my opinion.

Other systems which showed some potential were the Sony speakers with Pass amps, the small "Clue" speaker for $900 and the GT Works room with the $2700 electrostatic speakers. These all had good sound and high value, IMO.

I also enjoyed Michael Fremer's turntable setup seminar and the Stereophile reviewers round table discussion. The Waldorf is a great hotel and of course it is always nice to be in New York City.