What punches much higher than it's price point?


Just bought a Townshend Audio reference preamp in part, because an owner posted how it performed better than preamps he owned that were more than twice the price !  I concur wholeheartedly.  This makes me wonder what other audio diamonds are hiding out there ?  What component have you purchased new that so impressed you at its price point ?

greenngoldcheesehead

@lalitk Re the Softone Model4, I read somewhere that removing the RF filter on the mains input socket (if fitted) yields a considerable improvement in "microdynamics." 

It’s subjective but I’ll play.  My Holo Audio Cyan 2 DAC.  It sounds better IMO than other DACs I tried at twice the price. 

Hello all.  For those experiencing the Polar Vortex that's dropping your temps well into minus numbers I feel ya.  But back to audio bits that punch above their weight I'll submit my Dynavector 10x5 Mk II MC high output cartridge.  I've used several brands of cartridges on my vintage Denon DP-51F over the many years since that TT was new (circa 1980) and this particular DV 10x5 balances every aspect of tracking, separation and sonic quality that I expect from a cartridge.  And it does this for well under $1000.

Enjoy the music.

I will add the Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum integrated amp to the list. I had the II and had it upgrade to the III, not Dark. Huge improvement! Based on my experience it preforms as well as integrated amps costing triple. It supports Ultralinear if you need the 100W and a Triad mode with a warmer sound and about 65W. I seldom go past 15W so that headroom is only need when there is high dynamic range. 

It is my amp for life.