Recent content by Phantom-Audio

  1. Phantom-Audio

    Ithaka - DAC by Aries Cerat

    Looking for a distributor that owns both products simultaneously? It's a rare find! The ultimate way to compare and truly experience these top performers is by visiting the Cyprus factory. When it comes to sound, the Ithaka offers a whole new experience compared to the Kassandra Series.
  2. Phantom-Audio

    The Puritan PSM156

    I have been using the Puritan for over 3 years now. Initially, I paired it with the OTL and SET amplifiers I had on hand, and later with the Aries Cerat Quintessence amplifiers. I noticed a significant improvement in sound quality when using the SET and OTL amplifiers compared to the Aries...
  3. Phantom-Audio

    Best phono stage?

    Another noteworthy competitor is the Allnic DHT 8000, renowned for its exceptional musicality and emotional engagement.
  4. Phantom-Audio

    What are the Top Horn Speakers in the World Today? Vox Olympian vs Avantgarde Trio vs ???

    I have both Classic Audio T3.4 and the T1.5 models. Both speakers can be corner-loaded without any overshadowing in the bass region, resulting in a spacious, room-filling soundstage. I wholeheartedly agree on this point; these speakers are exceptionally revealing in their sound reproduction. In...
  5. Phantom-Audio

    Top 10 Most Expensive Speakers

    The Aries Cerat Contendo Horn Speaker is about 950K Euros.
  6. Phantom-Audio

    Please recommend some Monoblock Amps

    Another one to consider is the TriodeFET Amps
  7. Phantom-Audio

    Neutral power amp recommendations?

    I don't typically listen to audiophile music, but I do appreciate the quality of recordings during demos. Not all tube amplifiers or hybrids can guarantee an authentic sound; many tend to color the sound heavily, which appeals to certain audiences. Personally, I prefer a balanced sound that...
  8. Phantom-Audio

    Neutral power amp recommendations?

    I have personally owned the Dreams Series DAC and Streamer/DSD Player for more than 4 years. During this time, I have extensively used the DAC connected directly to amplifiers using the built-in volume control, as well as with an outboard Pre-Amplifier. In my experience, utilizing an outboard...
  9. Phantom-Audio

    Neutral power amp recommendations?

    Based on the Solid State amplifiers discussed, Dartzeel or R Koda appears to offer a more user-friendly option for long-term use. While CH may come across as neutral but to me lifeless yet extremely dynamic initially, it might not maintain its appeal over extended ownership. The choice between...
  10. Phantom-Audio

    Aries Cerat in France / Switzerland

    New Zealand is not far from me, Im located in Jakarta, Indonesia.
  11. Phantom-Audio

    "Aries Cerat Incito S, a tube line stage beyond boundary?!" First review of our Incito S

    In Cyprus, I had the opportunity to experience the Helene DAC, and I was truly amazed by its smooth and fatigue-free sound. Having previous experience with various more expensive DACs, this one was truly shocking to hear, especially considering its exceptional value for money. The midrange...
  12. Phantom-Audio

    Ithaka - DAC by Aries Cerat

    Indeed, the DAC is substantial, weighing over 120KG, which may pose space constraints for some individuals. Nevertheless, beyond its considerable size and weight, the crucial focus lies on its exceptional sound quality. It delves deeper into recordings with heightened resolution and smoothness...
  13. Phantom-Audio

    Ithaka - DAC by Aries Cerat

    I recently decided to invest in the Ithaka DAC, which features a TriodeFet output stage instead of the inverted triode technology utilized in the Legend Series. The Kassandra & LE is based upon SET Output Stage. With my extensive experience with various DACs, the Ithaka has captured my...
  14. Phantom-Audio

    The Aurora's are coming.

    Im using Purist Audio Design Corvus Cables for both speakers and interconnects. Although I have Silversmith and a few other options available, I discovered that the Purist Audio cables provide a more musical and quieter listening experience, all while maintaining exceptional transparency.
  15. Phantom-Audio

    Aries Cerat Ianus Essentia Owners thread

    I've discovered that the Dual E280F in the Quintessence produces the most balanced sound in terms of dynamics, transparency, and tonal density. It conveys the music with a deep emotional resonance and avoids sounding thin. The details are present without feeling forced or overly pronounced...

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