GOSSIP&NEWS

GOODBYE KORBON

tors are also US distributors, and that may be the key to their strength. How-

Is hi-fi — or consumer electronics in general — getting tougher to survive in? Change has claimed another victim, a major Canadian distributor.

The company is Korbon trading, which was already five years old when UHF was created in 1982. Ken Simpson had worked at the company importing Sharp when he set up his own company, which he named after his daughters,

Kory and Bonnie. The company had an ad in our very first issue, for Canton speakers. Not many of the advertisers in that same issue are still around.

In recent years Korbon was Canadian distributor for a number of high end brands, including Conrad-Johnson, Quad, Wharfedale, and Rockford Fosgate.

Most of Korbon’s stronger competi-

ever the Korbon announcement refers to a number of corporate and personal challenges. That could mean that…well, Ken Simpson has been at this for a long time.

Not that he is leaving electronics entirely. Korbon says that warranty work on Korbon products will be carried out by a firm called KSSM. That stands for “Ken Simpson Sales and Marketing.”

THE UHF REFERENCE SYSTEMS

All equipment reviews are done on at least

AC filters: Foundation Research LC-2

The Kappa system

one of UHF’s reference systems, selected as

(power amp), Inouye SPLC.

This is our home theatre system. As

working tools. They are changed infre-

The Omega system

with the original Alpha system, we had

quently, and only after long consideration.

limited space, and that pretty much ruled

The Alpha system

It serves for reviews of gear that cannot

out huge projectors and two-metre screens.

easily fit into the Alpha system, with its

We did, however, finally come up with a

Our original reference is in a room

small room. We didn’t set out to make an

system whose performance gladdens both

with extraordinary acoustics, designed as a

“A” (best system) and a “B” (economy)

eye and ear, with the needed resolution for

recording studio. It allows us to hear what

system, and we didn’t want to imply that

reviews.

we couldn’t hear elsewhere, but there’s a

one of the two systems is somehow better

HDTV monitor: Hitachi

down side. Not only is the room too small

than the other. Hence the names, which

for large speakers, but it is also at the top of

don’t invite comparisons. Unless you’re

43UWX10B CRT-based rear projector

a particularly unaccommodating stairwell.

Greek of course.

DVD player: Simaudio Moon Stellar

 

 

with Faroudja Stingray video processor

Main digital player: Linn Unidisk 1.1

Digital players: shared with the Alpha

Preamplifier/processor: Simaudio

Additional CD player: CEC TL-51X

system

Moon Attraction, 5.1 channel version

belt-driven transport, Counterpoint

Turntable: Linn LP12/Lingo II

Power amplifiers: Simaudio Moon

DA-10A converter with HDCD card.

Tone arm: Alphason HR-100S MCS

W-3 (main speakers), Celeste 4070se

Digital cable: Atlas Opus 1.5m

Pickup: Goldring Excel

(centre speaker), Robertson 4010 (rear)

Digital portable: Apple iPod 60 Gb

Phono preamp: Audiomat Phono-1.5

Main speakers: Energy Reference

Turntable: Audiomeca J-1

Preamplifier: Copland CTA-305

Connoisseur

Tone arm: Audiomeca SL-5

Power amplifier: Simaudio Moon

Centre speaker: Thiel MCS1, on

Pickup: Goldring Excel

W-8

UHF’s own TV-top platform

Phono preamp: Audiomat Phono-1.5

Loudspeakers: Reference 3a

Rear speakers: Elipson 1400

Preamplifier: Copland CTA-305

Suprema II

Subwoofer: 3a Design Acoustics

Power amplifier: Simaudio Moon

Interconnects: Pierre Gabriel ML-1,

Cables: Van den Hul, MIT, GutWire,

W-5LE)

Atlas Navigator All-Cu

Wireworld

Loudspeakers: Living Voice Avatar

Loudspeaker cables: Pierre Gabriel

Line filter: GutWire MaxCon

OBX-R

ML-1 for most of the range, Wire-

Squared

Interconnects: Pierre Gabriel ML-1,

world Polaris for the twin subwoofers.

 

Atlas Voyager All-Cu

Power cords: GutWire, Aurora

All three systems have dedicated power

Loudspeaker cables: Actinote LB/

AC filters: GutWire MaxCon

lines, with Hubbell hospital grade outlets.

Eclipse III

Squared, Foundation Research LC-1

Extensions and power bars are equipped

Power cords: Gutwire, Wireworld

Acoustics: Gershman Acoustic Art

with hospital-grade connectors.

 

 

ULTRA HIGH FIDELITY Magazine 77

Page 79
Image 79
Koss 76 manual UHF Reference Systems

76 specifications

The Koss 76 headphones are a notable addition to the world of audio technology, designed to offer listeners an immersive sound experience combined with comfort and convenience. Known for their exceptional sound quality, the Koss 76 headphones utilize a range of innovative features that set them apart in the competitive market of personal audio devices.

One of the standout features of the Koss 76 is its open-back design, which allows sound to travel freely in and out of the earcups. This design not only adds a sense of spaciousness to the audio but also contributes to a more natural listening experience. Users appreciate the open-back headphones for their ability to create a wide soundstage, making them ideal for critical listening and enjoying nuanced details in music, dialogue, and sound effects.

Another key characteristic of the Koss 76 is its lightweight build, which is crucial for long listening sessions. Weighing in at just a few ounces, these headphones provide ease of use without compromising on sturdiness. The plush ear cushions ensure that users remain comfortable, even after hours of wear, making them suitable for both casual listening and more extended use during activities such as gaming or working from home.

In terms of sound performance, the Koss 76 headphones boast a rich dynamic range, producing clear highs, well-defined mids, and deep bass. This balanced sound signature ensures that all types of music, from classical to contemporary pop, can be enjoyed as the artists intended. The inclusion of high-quality drivers further enhances clarity and reduces distortion, making the Koss 76 a great choice for audiophiles looking for quality on a budget.

Moreover, Koss has integrated a durable cable into the design of the 76 headphones, featuring a convenient 3.5mm audio jack that is compatible with a wide array of devices including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The cord length is optimized to provide flexibility without tangling, allowing for hassle-free movement while listening.

In summary, the Koss 76 headphones exemplify a successful fusion of comfort, functionality, and superior sound quality. Their open-back design, lightweight construction, and well-balanced audio make them a compelling choice for anyone seeking an engaging and enjoyable listening experience. Whether for casual enjoyment or critical listening, the Koss 76 stands out as a reliable option in modern audio equipment.