LEAK, a brand with deep roots in the history of audio innovation, was established by Harold Joseph Leak in 1934 in London, England. Known for its high-quality audio components, LEAK carved out a reputation for affordability combined with high performance, a hallmark that defined the brand for decades.

Harold Leak, identifying himself as a 'Sound Engineer – Technician,' alongside Ted Ashley, who became Chief Engineer, propelled LEAK to the forefront of the home audio equipment market. Together, they led the company through an era of significant technological advancements in amplifiers, loudspeakers, pickups, and turntables.

The mid-20th century was a transformative period for LEAK, as the brand navigated the challenges of wartime disruption to focus on developing purposeful audio technology. Post-war, the emphasis shifted towards high-fidelity systems, marking LEAK's entry into an era of low-noise, high-performance products that gained international acclaim.

A pivotal moment came in 1945 with the introduction of the LEAK Type 15 amplifier, which featured innovative 'negative feedback' and 'push-pull' triode connected KT66 valves, achieving an impressive 15 watts output. This product laid the groundwork for the brand's reputation in high-fidelity sound reproduction.

The late 1940s and 1950s saw LEAK introducing groundbreaking products like the TL/12, which became a standard for high-fidelity sound, and embarking on marketing campaigns that directly compared live versus reproduced music, showcasing the superior quality of LEAK systems. These efforts culminated in LEAK's products being adopted by prestigious institutions like the BBC.

Innovation continued with the introduction of the LEAK Sandwich loudspeaker in 1961, a design that utilized a novel approach to reduce vibrations and resonance, leading to more dynamic audio reproduction. This period also saw the development of the LEAK Stereo 30, a transition to transistor amplifiers that offered a more accessible price point to a broader audience.

Despite its innovations and contributions to the audio industry, LEAK faced challenges from global competition and changing market dynamics, eventually leading to the brand's acquisition by the Rank Organization in 1969 and a gradual fade from the forefront of the audio market.

After years of dormancy, LEAK was revived by the IAG Group, bringing the brand back to the market with a focus on blending classic styling with modern audio technology, ensuring LEAK's legacy continues for new generations of audiophiles.

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Leak

Delta 30


McIntosh is celebrating its 75th anniversary in style with the release of the MC2.1KW monoblock amplifier. This is no ordinary amplifier. It is a work of art, with a price tag to match - $100,000 for a stereo pair!

#### 2,000 Watts of Power

The McIntosh MC2.1KW is not just a pretty face. It is also a powerhouse, with an impressive 2,000 watts of output per channel. The MC2.1KW is designed with a unique three-chassis structure, not just for looks. It is to ensure crystal-clear sound with no interference. The audio circuitry is divided into two separate modules, while the third chassis houses the input and output components.

### A Design to Be Admired

Now, about the design. The MC2.1KW is a real beauty. It has a sleek stainless steel case with a mirror finish, black glass front panels, and of course the iconic McIntosh logo paired with the signature blue power indicator. It is as if they took a piece of their history and mixed it with the modern age. This is not just an amplifier; it is a work of art.

For audiophiles who love exclusivity, the first 75 units of the MC2.1KW come with special anniversary badges. Imagine having "75 Years" engraved on your amplifier - it is like owning a piece of history.

### A Price Tag That Reflects Luxury

Yes, the price is pretty steep. We are talking about $50,000 per channel. But McIntosh is not just an amplifier. It is a status symbol, a luxury. It is for those who do not just listen to music, they feel it. For those who appreciate the combination of top-notch sound quality with elegant design.

The McIntosh MC2.1KW is not just another great amplifier. It is a celebration of McIntosh' 75-year journey in the world of high-end sound, a continuation of history. It is a mix of nostalgia, modern design, and sheer power. So for those who can afford it, this amplifier is not just an addition to your audio system; it is a statement.

### Technical Specifications and Features of McIntosh MC2.1KW

-   **Power Output**: 2000 watts.
-   **Tri-Chassis Design**: Unique separation of audio circuitry and input/output components across three chassis.
-   **Speaker Outputs**: Multiple outputs for 2 ohms, 4 ohms, and 8 ohms.
-   **Heat Dissipation**: Equipped with four bespoke McIntosh heatsinks on each power module.
-   **Enhanced Circuit Designs**: Modern components and shorter signal paths for improved sonic performance.
-   **Connectivity**: Single-ended RCA and balanced XLR inputs.
-   **Price and Availability**: High-end pricing, available from January 2024 at authorized dealers.

[More info at McIntosh](https://www.mcintoshlabs.com/products/amplifiers/MC21KW)

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A Piece of Audio History: $100,000 For Stereo, Limited Edition McIntosh MC2.1KW

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc., often referred to simply as McIntosh, is an esteemed American brand renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Founded in 1949 in Binghamton, New York, McIntosh has established itself as a pioneer in the high-fidelity audio industry. The brand is synonymous with enduring build quality, aesthetic elegance, and unparalleled sound performance, making it a choice of audiophiles and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Known for its distinctive design, McIntosh products feature signature black glass front panels, aluminum end caps, and the iconic "McIntosh Blue" watt meters, which have become a symbol of audio excellence. Their product range encompasses a wide array of audio equipment, including amplifiers, preamplifiers, speakers, turntables, and other audio accessories, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and acoustic perfection.

McIntosh's dedication to producing high-quality sound reproduction is evident in their use of advanced technologies and precision engineering. Their products are often the result of extensive research and development, ensuring that they not only meet but exceed industry standards.

In addition to sound quality, McIntosh is committed to the longevity and durability of its products. Many McIntosh units from decades past are still in use today, a testament to their build quality and the company's commitment to sustainability through longevity.

Whether for home audio systems, professional studios, or luxury car audio, McIntosh provides an audio experience that is both immersive and emotionally engaging, offering a level of performance that is as close to the original recording as possible. Their legacy and ongoing innovation continue to set the standard in high-end audio, making McIntosh a prestigious and revered name in the world of hi-fi audio systems.

McIntosh

McIntosh's MC2.1KW Monoblock Amplifier: A Masterpiece of Audio Engineering and Design Worth $100,000

Tidal is shaking things up with their subscription services, rolling out a new plan that's got everyone talking, especially audiophiles. By April 10, 2024, Tidal's going to offer just one main subscription option, priced at $10.99 per month, which they're simply calling "TIDAL." This move means all the high-end audio formats they offer, including the fancy ones audiophiles love, will be available under this single tier. They're also introducing something extra for DJs, an add-on that costs another $9 a month, but they're cutting out their Military, First Responder, and free plans, citing changes in their deals with music rightsholders as the reason.

The response from the audiophile community has been a mixed bag. A hot topic is whether this new plan includes MQA audio. MQA, or Master Quality Authenticated audio, is something of a controversial topic among audiophiles. It's supposed to deliver superior sound quality, but not everyone's convinced or thinks it's worth the fuss.

Some audiophiles are pretty happy about the change. They like the idea of streamlining everything into one straightforward subscription that doesn't skimp on sound quality. It seems like a move towards making high-quality music streaming more accessible without complicating things with too many options.

However, not everyone's on board with these changes. The additional charge for DJ integrations and the axing of certain discount plans have left some folks feeling left out in the cold. And with all the back-and-forth about MQA, there are quite a few questions floating around. Specifically, audiophiles are curious if the beloved (or bemoaned, depending on who you ask) MQA format will still be part of Tidal's offerings in this all-in-one plan.

Despite the range of opinions, it's clear that Tidal's announcement has sparked a significant conversation among music enthusiasts, particularly those with a keen ear for quality. As the rollout date gets closer, audiophiles are keeping a close eye on how these changes will impact their listening habits, hoping for a sweet spot between quality, cost, and access to their preferred audio formats.

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Tidal's New Pricing What It Means for Music Lovers

Say hello to Tidal's unified music plan. Premium sound quality without the confusion of multiple tiers


The High End 2024 event is a showcase where T+A elektroakustik, a German leader in high-quality entertainment electronics, is unveiling significant innovations. Their approach this year is particularly fascinating, combining enhancements to their loudspeaker line with a pioneering venture into user interface design.

### Enhanced Loudspeaker Models

The Criterion S 240 is a standout in their announcement. This model builds on the foundation set by the Criterion S 230 but pushes the boundaries further. It features a larger internal volume and more potent drivers, designed to enrich the bass output, making the listening experience more profound and immersive. These technical improvements are aimed at achieving a richer sound landscape, vital for any audiophile seeking depth and clarity in their audio experience.

Moreover, the Criterion S 240 integrates T+A's proprietary MultiResonator Transmissionline technology, Symmetric Directivity Design, and Star Stabilizer cones. These elements are designed to improve the overall sound staging, aiming for a balanced and vivid audio portrayal across different musical genres. The attention to material quality and finish—available in luxurious Makassar veneer and various lacquer finishes—also speaks to the aesthetic and functional standards T+A upholds.

### Project Dawn: A Leap into User Interface Innovation

Perhaps the most intriguing part of T+A's presentation is the introduction of "Project Dawn." This initiative represents a significant pivot in how user interfaces are integrated into audio equipment. Project Dawn isn't just about tweaking; it's about rethinking the control experience from the ground up. This project aims to create a user interface that is intuitive and seamless, whether one interacts with the device directly or through a mobile application.

This approach underscores an evolving trend where the usability of a device is as crucial as its technical prowess. For T+A, this means embedding the user interface development right alongside traditional areas like hardware and software, treating it as an integral part of the product's design ethos.

### Bridging Technology with User Experience

T+A's strategy indicates a shift towards a more inclusive design philosophy. By actively inviting feedback and involving users in the development process, they are not just engineering products but are crafting experiences tailored to user needs and preferences. This collaborative approach could potentially lead to innovations that are more in tune with what audiophiles and casual listeners alike seek in modern audio equipment.

### Conclusion

Overall, T+A's announcements at High End 2024 highlight their commitment to both technological advancement and user-centric design. The Criterion S 240 promises to deliver superior sound quality with thoughtful engineering tweaks, while Project Dawn aims to redefine how we interact with our audio devices. Together, these developments reflect a forward-thinking approach that could influence industry standards and user expectations in the years to come.

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T+A Unveils New Audio Innovations at High End Munich

T+A is a German high-end audio equipment manufacturer known for producing premium quality amplifiers, speakers, and digital audio players.

See how T+A's High End 2024 showcase could revolutionize your audio experience with their latest tech

Delta 30

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A Piece of Audio History: $100,000 For Stereo, Limited Edition McIntosh MC2.1KW

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