They were playing a reel-to-reel tape machine in here – as were several others at the show. The overall effect here was of a full, rounded, even sound that filled the room. Liked this much better than their similar room at CES earlier this year. Will try to get back for a detailed listen.
The had a piano and a pianist playing for several hours late Saturday.
Funny thing. The piano did not sound that great. I do not mean the playing itself, which was quite interesting, I mean the sound. It is a fairly large space, and the piano was not that big, the damping from the carpet and all the people standing around seemed to rob the notes of harmonics and bloom and decay.
I think this is just one example of many many cases [usually though with small time bands who do not think they should shell out for good sound equipment] where a good stereo system can sound better than a live performance.
But it is indeed hard to beat ‘being there’ watching him play – he was quite entertaining and his playing quite bold – I think that is how I would describe it anyway.
Finally got out of the room today.
Our other Audio Note room features the Jinro integrated amplifier, the baby brother of the Ongaku in room 557.
The Jinro in black.
Mario and Dave are having a special after-hour treat with some reel-to-reel tape action in the 501 room. We just heard about it today, and we have to get back to Boulder anyway [we miss ALL the fun. This sucks! Next year we are staying at the show]. Saw a good number of people headed towards 501 as we were leaving
The room…
