Finest Audio Show Zurich:
B) Highlight: true high-end (Odeon Semper, Aries Cerat presented by ACS Switzerland)
An absolutely convincing performance: a powerful, room-filling sound image, extremely dynamic vocal reproduction, natural reproduction of classical instruments (e.g. cello), precise spatiality bordering on oversized presentation. Everything sounded lively, present, rather ‘in your face’ but never annoying or shrill. Although these were ‘entry level’ devices from Aries Cerat (DAC Heléne, Hermes phono stage, Protos integrated amplifier), it was an atmospheric and emotionally stirring presentation. With component prices ranging from £13k to £23k, it was by no means the most expensive system at the show. However, the Odeon Semper loudspeakers were expensive (£42k). Horn loudspeakers also remain a matter of taste. For me, they are almost too much. A comparison with classic loudspeakers would have been interesting (they need a decent efficiency rating. The Protos is a 20-watt tube amplifier).
