Taking time to reflect on what was a Jam-Packed week in Munich, there was a lot to take in! The opportunity to take flight from our Northern Irish Headquarters and travel East to the city of Munich is always an invigorating experience for the team here at Reference Audio Distribution cherish.
One week on, we now have time to look back at a number of key highlights which we could take from the trip. The opportunity to engage with our overseas partners, experience new and exciting products and even meet some new faces along the way is an awesome experience. Here's a quick run down how we got on with each of our partners:
Audia Flight
It was no surprise that Audia Flight could be seen in numerous set-ups across multiple rooms at the show. Pairing with reference products from brands like Marten, Audia Fight Strumento series were in full force in many demonstration systems. This collaboration of products highlights the true area of performance in which Audia Flight fits, with this range of products being so highly regarded by customers and the industry alike. There robust build quality, bold presence and warm sound helped to bring each demonstration to life. While these are considered the reference range of products, it's no surprise they are the most popular of the brand. Of course, the hugely popular FLS Series was also prominently on display in a number of rooms, showing the minimalist styling of the brand.
While there was no major updates in regards to changes or new products, we were able to hear some exciting ideas the brand has for the future and having the pressure to listen to this phenomenal products!
Chario
Located just off the main exhibition hall, Chario showcased some very exciting advancements in this range of speakers! Unfortunately we can't show you any photos just yet but... we assure you this WILL be worth the wait!
Overall it was a fantastic opportunity to meet with the Chario team, including Alessandro who talked us through some of the plans moving forward with Chario, all while toasting over a couple of beers! Chario's attention to detail, Italian heresy and innovative ideals are what help make this such a successful brand, and is part of the reason you all love it so much! All in all, we got the opportunity to see and hear some incredible developments which we hope to see very soon, and we look forward to sharing with you once the time comes!
Diapason
These handsome chaps include, Alessandro (Alex) and Paulo from Diapason, and Gary from RAD. Having worked with Alex for many years, his charm and expertise never failed to impress. He was fantastic to catch up face-to-face, speaking about how the brand has exploded in the UK, and is now a fan favourite especially for those looking for a big sound in a compact size.
It was a pleasure to officially meet Paulo, one of the newest additions to the Diapason team who previously worked with Sonus Fabre, before being poached! A true gentleman, Paulo very quickly showcased his professionalism and big ideas which we and the team believe will have a hugely positive impact on the brand. His experience with Sonus Fabre will help transform the heritage and legacy of Diapason into a new age, pairing artistry with modern day ingenuity. It was a pleasure to share a drink with these two and learn more about what's next for Diapason, and we look forward to sharing with you.
Diptyque
Beautiful! Am I Right? Diptyque never fail to impress with their effortless elegance and grace, showcasing why they are one of the finest Isodynamic loudspeakers on the market. Speaking with Gilles, Owner of Diptyque, it was great to see the many forms of customisation they showcased at the stand, with multiple colours and finishes. We were able to hear some of the advancements in design of Diptyque, and also listen to the Reference speakers in the range. The sophisticated design of Diptyque is truly so impressive, creating an open sound with fantastic bass! It was lovely to catch with Jiles and we were even pleasantly gifted some authentic French chocolate which almost made it through the meeting before being thoroughly enjoyed!
Silent Pound
Martynas & Audrius always know how to make a room sound good! That being said, it's hard to make Silent Pound sound bad! After recently meeting the pair in Chicago for Axpona, it was still a welcome visit to hear them demonstrating with a collection of additional brands. Both the Challengers & Blooms were on show, rotating through the day to offer sonic performances which were a hit. The newly available Bloom offers listeners a more cost effective way of enjoying the Silent Pound sound, and despite the difference in price, they can really hold thier own against thier bigger brother. That being said, for those looking for a reference sound will still find a bargain in the Challengers, which punch WAY above thier pricepoint.
A great opportunity once again to catch up with the team and enjoy some sweet sounds!
Spirit Torino
Wave hello to the New Titano Wave Headphones from Spirit Torino! Ain't these a beauty? The Titano (Pictured) and Radiante ranges now feature a Wave model with improved performance through Spirit's Sonic Fingerprint! In addition, the new Wave design on the side of each headphone helps to make these phones look as good as they sound!
With 6 new models unveiled at Munich, including updates to Pulsar which feature new Twin Pulse Isobaric Technology combines vintage design and high performance. They also feature a new wooden case for a touch of class. The Centauri 1706 are a homage to the history of Torino. It is an Open Back planer isodynamic headphone with a deep warm and detailed sound.
Overall, lots of exciting additions which we look forward to sharing with you in the near future!
Titan Audio
This little fella packs a punch! Check out the NEW HS-PWR Lite Power Block from Titan Audio. This compact version of the reference HS-PWR block features Titan's innovative ForceField Technology with 6 hardwired sockets for power distribution. The smaller size makes this model ideal for tight spaces, while still having a big presence in the room. I mean, if your going buy something for your system why not let it stand out, right?
The Titan Audio team were featured in a number of places in Munich, most notable the Silent Pound demonstration room with Eros Signature, HS-X3 & HS-X6 Power Cables helping provide a sound foundation for the whole system!
Titanic Audio
Featured on a Mork Analog Turntable, Titanic Audio demonstrated the sonic qualities of the Model G and Newton Clamp! Like always, the Titanic pair didn't fail to impress why offering a straight forward, quality sound. With the Model G being the reference cartridge in the range, it could express a big sound all it's golden aluminium chassis"
Titanic Audio did not unveil any major developments in the range during the show, but speaking with the team we were able to get some sneak peeks at products which may be soon coming to market. It's all very exciting for the locally based Cartridge brand, and it should be exciting to see what is to come from the handmade brand.
Looking To The Future
While in Munich, we were able to speak to a number of different brands who showcased some exciting products from across the world. We were able to see some interesting options in the audio world, and we hope to be able to share some intriguing news in the coming weeks.
Overall, it is was a very positive experience and we look forward to working with you all in the weeks and months to come! Thanks for taking the time to read the report, and if you have any questions regarding any of our brands, please feel free to let us know!