I wouldn’t presume to know Magico well enough to judge them. Suffice to say that they didn’t involve me enough. I like to feel as though I am part of the performance, that is not to say it must sound like a live concert, because nothing does. If I want to be a passerby I can always go to a hotel lobby....there are many more Magico experts here so I will defer to them.
Interesting...I have actually not heard that about the latest gen of big Wilsons before. I have heard the XLF years ago and found it extremely good and I found it more 'sure of itself' in regards to earlier generations...more resolute, disciplined. Intuitively I felt that part of this was the cabinetry which I think is more solid than the X1 generation...less vibration which leads to looser sound reproduction. I like the X1 Series treble (having replaced the tweeter years ago with a 'Maxx 3 generation replacement' after the original tweeters blew)...but also liked the XLF.
Thank you for the feedback. My sense is you have incredible experience and an exceptionally 'fine tuned ear'...always enjoy reading your posts.
Howie,
I am curious as to the version of the Kagura that you have on loan. Last week I think you said they were "going back", it seemed like they didn't want to leave your incredible room
I ask about the version because 4 years ago the new Kagura I-ver was released. There were MAJOR updates vs. the original Kaguras. Do you have the original Kaguras or the new I-ver (International version)?
The Kagura now is called the international version. "Kagura (i-ver)" in writing.
Kondo redesigned the original Kagura and released it at Sep 2016. (the other i-ver amplifiers, Overture, G70, G1000 were also released at the same time)
There are several "upgrade on the I-ver Kagura.
1) Selected silver foil capacitors (with gold color labels) : further improve the matching of signal cap ---> higher channels matching ---> better sound stage, separation, resolution etc
2) Upgrade output transformer : 2 sets of impedance output, better tonal balance, dynamic, bandwidth and frequency response
3) 8 ohm and 4/16 ohm binding posts (4 ohm and 16 ohm selection tap is located inside the chassis) : more user friendly.
4) Normal or high Gain model (selector switch is located inside the chassis) : for matching with lower efficiency speaker or sources, as well as retrieving Kondo's iconic feels.
I only mention this as I am curious as to which version you have as I have had both the original and now the new I-ver and they are completely different sounding amplifiers and want to make sure that readers of this thread understand which Kaguras you are using for these comparisons.
Also, as you have mentioned prior to showing the videos that a non Kondo preamp, which I have found to make a major difference in the way the Kaguras perform, is being used.
Bob, the pair I had were already on their way to their new owner but had a hiatus on the way chez moi so it wasn't an option to let them go. I think this pair is the original version. I agree people should not get the wrong idea about the Kaguras or Kondo in general. I have had Kondo stuff on and off for more than a decade and they have always over performed imo. There is a synergy with their pre and power amps no question and there is a big difference between the 6db of the Koda preamp and 25db of a Kondo preamp. Since the Koda preamp is mine I am looking for a pairing with it. Quite ironic since Robert Koch was one of Kondo san's disciples. Would be nice to try a pair of Kagura-I with a G1000 preamp someday
Get out and listen to everything. One day I hope I can walk through your hallowed doors for a session. I still want to hear those Diesis speakers
Bob, I say it like I see it. With no skin in the game, I try to give my honest opinion but you rightly pointed out the pitfalls of comparisons where variables may favour one product or the other. That's why i would never buy anything based on a review as reviewers have their own systems to fit into, their own rooms, and their own musical tastes. Get out and listen to everything. One day I hope I can walk through your hallowed doors for a session. I still want to hear those Diesis speakers
When you are there, absolutely do NOT forget to listen to the AlsyVoxes.
But I have to admit, the Diesis really surprised me last year in Munich
Intrude away, it doesnt bother me...I heard the Bayz in HK and it was pretty good.
Wonder why they use the same name "Kagura." If I were the owner of the version without the "I", I would be saying WTF! Imagine paying a few hundred thousand bucks and then there is another version of the same model that sound noticeably better. That is just fuck up and killing its own brand imo.Howie,
I am curious as to the version of the Kagura that you have on loan. Last week I think you said they were "going back", it seemed like they didn't want to leave your incredible room
I ask about the version because 4 years ago the new Kagura I-ver was released. There were MAJOR updates vs. the original Kaguras. Do you have the original Kaguras or the new I-ver (International version)?
The Kagura now is called the international version. "Kagura (i-ver)" in writing.
Kondo redesigned the original Kagura and released it at Sep 2016. (the other i-ver amplifiers, Overture, G70, G1000 were also released at the same time)
There are several "upgrade on the I-ver Kagura.
1) Selected silver foil capacitors (with gold color labels) : further improve the matching of signal cap ---> higher channels matching ---> better sound stage, separation, resolution etc
2) Upgrade output transformer : 2 sets of impedance output, better tonal balance, dynamic, bandwidth and frequency response
3) 8 ohm and 4/16 ohm binding posts (4 ohm and 16 ohm selection tap is located inside the chassis) : more user friendly.
4) Normal or high Gain model (selector switch is located inside the chassis) : for matching with lower efficiency speaker or sources, as well as retrieving Kondo's iconic feels.
I only mention this as I am curious as to which version you have as I have had both the original and now the new I-ver and they are completely different sounding amplifiers and want to make sure that readers of this thread understand which Kaguras you are using for these comparisons.
Also, as you have mentioned prior to showing the videos that a non Kondo preamp, which I have found to make a major difference in the way the Kaguras perform, is being used.
