The Arcams, Cyruses and Roksans of this world are smiling. After many years of success they are pretty much available in most places and testing is less of a problem.
When the smaller companies componenets are tested by hi-fi mags (some come highly recommended), the names I'm thinking about are Astin Trew, Exposure. . .I could mention others. The point is these companies lack the accessibilty of the big Co's, and as modern technology is changing the face of conventional hi-fi (MP3/4's, Ipods etc.), what chance do the smaller businesses have of retaining (and growing) their profile? Especially when they rival the larger companies products (possibly).
I have the Arcam CD73T but it wasn't my first choice. I was really hankering after Exposure 2010s, and even contacted Exposure direct. They stated that they could sell me the machine direct (at full price). I then pointed out that a retailer in N. London was selling the same thing, brand new, for a £100 less.
Although the CD73T is great for the price, this just highlights the problems the little companies have. So not a whinge, just an observation - and a shed-load of frustration.
When the smaller companies componenets are tested by hi-fi mags (some come highly recommended), the names I'm thinking about are Astin Trew, Exposure. . .I could mention others. The point is these companies lack the accessibilty of the big Co's, and as modern technology is changing the face of conventional hi-fi (MP3/4's, Ipods etc.), what chance do the smaller businesses have of retaining (and growing) their profile? Especially when they rival the larger companies products (possibly).
I have the Arcam CD73T but it wasn't my first choice. I was really hankering after Exposure 2010s, and even contacted Exposure direct. They stated that they could sell me the machine direct (at full price). I then pointed out that a retailer in N. London was selling the same thing, brand new, for a £100 less.
Although the CD73T is great for the price, this just highlights the problems the little companies have. So not a whinge, just an observation - and a shed-load of frustration.