NewClear Audio NC1000L Class D Stereo Power Amplifier

Chris Groppi

Class D (i.e., "Switching") amplifiers have been around for quite a while now. What's clear from models produced so far is they all sound different, even when using the same core technology. Like many amplifiers of the type, the NewClear NC1000L uses the Bang and Olufsen ICEPower module. What makes the NC1000L different isn't this module; it's how that module is implemented. NewClear Audio was started by Sean Brady to improve upon the sound of existing switching amplifiers. Sean had heard some very good amps based on ICEPower technology, but thought he could do even better. The question is, does the NC1000L deliver the goods compared to similarly priced, traditional Class A/B amplifiers?

Power Amplifiers

Revel F208 Floor-standing Speakers Review

Stephen Hornbrook

From Revel's Performa3 line of speakers, the F208 full-range 3-way loudspeaker is brilliantly executed. From the rock solid cabinet to its beautiful, automotive quality finish, the F208 is one of the best buys in the oversaturated speaker market. These speakers have wonderful neutral tonal balance, a 3 dimensional soundstage and a top-notch low end. Hands down one of the finest speakers we have come across in its price range.

Floor Standing Speakers

Onkyo TX-NR535 5.2 A/V Receiver Review

Don Disbennett

The Onkyo TX-NR535 5.2 A/V Receiver is part of Onkyo's new line of entry level receivers and features HDMI 2.0 to allow it to pass Ultra HD 4K/60 Hz video. It also features built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for easy streaming of music from your tablet, smartphone and NAS.

Receivers

Moving Magnet vs Moving Coil

Rick Schmidt

I bought a new turntable but am still trying to decide on the cartridge. Should I get a moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridge? What price range should I consider assuming I have mid-priced components in my audio system?

- Tony M
Phoenix, AR

SECRETS Home Theater Q&A

Anthem MRX 310 5.1 A/V Receiver Review

Carlo Lo Raso

Putting together a new home theater setup? Looking to upgrade that old receiver you've had soldiering on valiantly in your a/v cabinet? Well, the home theater enthusiast should find themselves spoiled for choice these days. But I have quite a few reasons why you should check out the Anthem MRX 310 A/V Receiver with the Anthem Room Correction System.

Receivers

Speakers with No Box Enclosure

Jim Milton

I heard some speakers at a local HiFi show and they were mounted on a single board with no box enclosure, so you could look behind the board and see all of the speakers, wiring, and cross over network. What is supposed to be the desired effect of mounting them this way?

- Steve G
Atlanta, GA

SECRETS Home Theater Q&A