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Isolation Systems

For RMAF 2009 in Denver, Colorado Critical Mass Systems proudly supported Merlin Music Systems featuring Joule Electra amplifiers.  We

 won our 4th Audio Oasis Award!  Here are comments:

Merlin/Cardas/Joule Electra/Critical Mass Systems

"............No surprise here: year in, and year out, the combination of Merlin Music, Joule Electra, and Cardas Audio makes magic for me. Whether it's RMAF or CES, the VSM-MXe, this combination of a classic two way design that Bobby is tweaking to the maximum (and now enhanced with some seriously upgraded capacitors), Jud Barber's 100 WPC Marquis Mk. 4 633C-based OTLs on their Critical Mass Stands (excellent stands, by the way), the Marianne Electra Balanced Memorial Preamp (LA-300 ME), and George Cardas' always-terrific cables, makes MUSIC.

The sound was detailed and clean, with excellent base and great soundstaging; I like the new caps a lot. 

No doubt about it: once more, Merlin/Cardas/Joule Electra/CMS deserves a PFO Audio Oasis! award.

Duly given." –David W. Robinson http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue45/rmaf09.htm

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An excerpt from an article in Home Entertainment Magazine with photos is shown below.   We installed Grand Masters in a dedicated listening room for an astute, dedicated audiophile.  The room was designed by Rives Audio.  The components (listed below) are located in a separate room behind the back wall.  The glass doors allow (far back center) the remotes to work.  The entry door to the electronics room is back on the left wall.  The GMs made a significant improvement to the overall presentation:

 "Tube amplifiers from Conrad-Johnson and Jadis provide power through massive audio cables that rest on tiny, sawhorse-like supports to isolate them from floor-borne vibration. An Esoteric Audio DVD player, tweaked out and heavily modified by Alex Peychev Laboratories, provides the primary audio source, along with an APL digital-to-analog converter. All components float on Critical Mass Grand Masters isolation platforms. This room is the audio equivalent of an F1 car—something designed purely for performance, with no other significant considerations." - Brent Butterworth http://www.hemagazine.com/node/Room_Acoustics_Your_Room_Your_Way?page=0%2C2

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In his article, The Good Doctor Opines on Comings and Goings: Follow-up to the Critical Mass Black Platinum PXK System, Dr. Sardonicus makes several observations about the Black Platinum PXK Direct Coupling System and compares it to the Black Label Series:

".....And another big "but; taken free-standing, aside from the comparison of the much pricier PXK, the Black Label system is a remarkable performer and a superb value. Although I miss the PXK, I am perfectly delighted with my Black Label system. For the vast majority of audiophiles the Black Label system will never be the unknown compromise in their system"  - Dr. Sardonicus, Positive Feedback Online, http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue40/critical_mass.htm

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We are very pleased to announce that Critical Mass Systems Grand Master was selected a Stereophile Recommended Component:

............."The Grand Master is an attractive, rosewood-veneered isolation platform standing 6" tall and weighing about 60 lbs.  Though it appears to be a single solid slab, Critical Mass Systems claims that each Grand Master is a sequential arrangement of filters representing different frequency bandwidths.  Various interface blocks are used to maximize the relationship between the platform and the audio component it supports.   The Grand Master was most effective at filtering footfalls when used with AD's Thorens TD-124 MK.II turntable, and provided compelling, lifelike performances overall.  Length and width are made to order, with no extra charge up to 23" by 23".  A high gloss finish adds $350. ( Vol. 31 No. 6 WWW)............."  -Stereophile Vol. 31, No. 10

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Recently, an audiophile purchased Black Label Reference systems with racks customized to his specifications.  Randy gave permission to use his thoughts on this page which seemed very appropriate as he speaks to the entire process and the result.  Randy's thoughts support ours in that world-class isolation systems must remain invisible in the sonic fabric and make things sound better as more systems are added; they must be neutral and effective.  Here are Randy's comments:

..........."I now have the full CMS set-up installed in my home and have included a picture of my set-up.  As you can see in the picture, the racks and platforms were a perfect match for my components.  The customization and level of personal attention to my specific needs were simply the best I have dealt with in my years of audio.  I am still amazed at the additional labor and customization that went into my project - especially the new machined brass spikes that you fabricated new for my racks and the custom matching maple top cap shelves - you really do mean custom work!

I also want to let you know that the racks and platforms arrived safely and were the safest and best packaging I have ever seen for equipment; I am not talking about outer cases, etc.,  just the extreme care in the way every piece was wrapped and packaged - I think the shipment could have survived a hurricane intact.

And onto the sound...the difference from moving my equipment off of the acrylic and glass stand and platforms onto the CMS racks and platforms was amazing.  There was no leap of faith involved to hear the difference - it was immediate and profound.  The first quality I heard was improved bass, it was like my system just gained another 1/2 octave.  The other immediate quality was the sheer ease of the presentation - details became much more clear and focused, not thrust at you but just "there" in the fabric of the overall musical message.  I quickly noticed how easy it is now to turn up the volume - any trace of glare and hardness simply disappeared.  I listen to all contemporary jazz and rock and have found that every cd I have put on is very listenable, regardless of the quality of the recording or mastering.  My entire cd collection is now open for listening!  The components sitting on the platforms seem to allow the soul of the music to shine through, providing listening enjoyment due to the absence of vibration that has been converted into heat.  As a side note, my equipment seem to operate much cooler now, never even getting warm to the touch as they did in my old rack; I am not sure if the filters are doing something here or it is just the improved ventilation or both.

I have never been happier with my system than now with the current set-up and equipment; the CMS stands and platforms were the final missing link to happiness.  I think that I may have finally jumped off the upgrade merry-go-round.

I want to thank you for always taking my phone calls and promptly responding to my emails throughout the entire process from my initial interest to post-sale.  I did a lot of research on CMS before making a final decision on which new rack system to purchase.  I was impressed with the high praise leveled at you by reviewers and show attendees and your utmost friendliness and professionalism in all of my communication with you personally.   The high level of accommodation, commitment and professionalism also extends to your dealer, Doug White at Matrx Systems in Philadelphia, he was a true pleasure to deal with on the business/transaction side of the order.

Thank-you again and best of luck with your new line of PXK and QXK racks and platforms!"

Randy

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 for his In his June 2008 article, Art Dudley gives us his thoughts on racks, aging, home furnishings and isolation.  Great fun!   Thank you Art!

            ……….."The nice thing was, the differences were for the better, and it affected the music more than the sound: Performances were simply more compelling, a little more like real music." .........."With the Thorens on the Grand Master and the Grand Master separated from the hardwood floor by only four small conical feet, I found that I could jump up and down anywhere in that room and displace the stylus not one bit."  -Art Dudley, Stereophile June 2008 Vol. 31 No. 6

Manufacturers Reply: Reading Art Dudley is always a treat; there is a poetic meter to his thoughts on paper that flow melodically thus befitting their higher purpose; music, after all.  Describing the Grand Master as affecting music more than sound; closer to a real performance, nails its purpose.  This is exactly what our owners say and exactly what they want.

 A world-class isolation system is seen and never heard.  The object is to become neutral in the musical fabric, help pull music from the component, and get out of the way.   Get so far out of the way, in fact, that a stylus won’t jump when you stomp the floor.

 Properly designed audio isolation systems are, in my view, an exercise in extreme humility.  The designer must reign in his or her ego to remove personal preferences that translate into thumbprints of sound; never tip up the highs, never over blow the bass, never thicken up the middle.  These are egregious thumbprints of a tone control. 

 Inflicting sonic affectations upon the sound stage through poor or incomplete design becomes increasingly bad as more systems are added.  You’ve heard this, I’ve heard this and Critical Mass Systems wants none of it.

Considered in this context, Art’s impression that the results were wide ranging yet never disheartening clearly indicates the systems ability to do exactly that which is required to optimize the component and no more.  By optimizing the component, the affect of 2 or 3 or 4 and more isolation systems becomes additively more compelling and additively more like real music.  More is better; this is it!

 When I read Art’s words I thought “This man gets it”.  I expected no less from one so in touch with the meter of music and poetry.

 Very Respectfully,

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A review of the APL-HIFI NOW 3.0-GO was published in 6moons.  Critical Mass Systems was mentioned in quoted text from Alex Peychev.  Here is a portion of Mr. Peychev's quote:

            ……….."While the NWO has an amazing transport and overall mechanical construction, it still greatly benefits from vibration isolation devices. I have not heard many isolation platforms but was literally stunned by the performance achieved with the Critical Mass Grand Master platform."  Alex Peychev from, The APL HIFI Chronicles Chapter two: NOW 3.0-GO http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/aplhifi/nwo30go.html

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From the Positive Feedback-Online article, "These are Some of my Favorite Things"

............."So, what does the CMS system do?  Quiet. That is what it does …inky black, preternatural quiet …the absence of micro-level blur and ring."  -Dr. Sardonicus, http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue35/sardonicus.htm

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For CES 2008, Critical Mass Systems teamed with Gershman Acoustics - the Black Swan, Lamm Industries electronics and amplification, NeoDio transport and DAC and Kubala-Sosna interconnects and cabling.   Here are comments:

............."In contrast, the Gershman Black Swans ($25k) with Lamm amplification, while a bit darkish in balance, was one of the Best Sounds of the Show, with superb bass (superb everything, actually, from top to bottom). It isn’t news anymore, but this is one terrific loudspeaker."  -Jonathan Valin,  http://www.avguide.com/news/2008/01/23/ces-2008-jonathan-valin-explores-the-world-of-high-end-loudspeakers-at-ces/7/

................."This was my favorite room for listening to classical music. There's definitely a magical synergy with the Lamm electronics driving Gershman Acoustics speakers. Present were the power, the weight and the airy sounds of symphony hall being recreated in this room. This was room captivated my imagination as I sat for a good while, enjoying the music. Music was presented via the Gershman Acoustics Black Swan speakers ($36,000) being driven by the Lamm M1.2 Reference ($21,690), ML1.1 ($22,890) amplifiers, with Lamm L2 Reference preamplifier ($14,790) and Lamm LP2 phono preamplifier ($6,990). Digital source was provided by a NeoDio (from France) NR Two Transport (5,800 euros) and NR Two DAC (5,800 euros). Vinyl was played on a Clearaudio Anniversary turntable with a Graham 2.2 tonearm. Kubala-Sosna cables were used throughout. Equipment stand and isolation bases were provided by Critical Mass."  -Mike Wright, http://stereotimes.com/CES08MWa.shtml

Jonathan Valin’s Best of Show

................"Best Sounds: No single speaker stood way above the pack this year in my price range, so I’m going to name several Best Sounds of Show: the Magico Mini II, the Magico V3, the Quad Reference ESL-2905, the Cessaro Alpha 1, the Nola Baby Grand Reference, the Von Schweikert R-5, the McIntosh XRT1k, the Gershman Black Swans, the Wilson MAXX 2s, the Avalon Indras, the TAD Reference One and TAD Compact Reference One, and the Kharma 3.2.2s." -Jonathan Valin, http://www.avguide.com/news/2008/01/23/ces-2008-jonathan-valin-explores-the-world-of-high-end-loudspeakers-at-ces/10/

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Also for CES 2008, Critical Mass Systems teamed with Half Note Audio including ASR amplifiers, Tidal Loudspeakers, Oracle and Stylos electronics pulled together with Argento cables.  A Black Label Grand Master in black automotive high gloss supported the ASR Emitter II amplifier with with Black Label Master isolation systems in rosewood underneath its battery systems.   Here are comments:

................"This system was incredible!.....What a pleasure to sit and listen to music here...."  -Dave Clark, http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue35/ces083.htm

................"Half Note Audio put on an absolutely excellent sounding demo using electronics I've seen before but never heard perform like this. ………………No question, this was one of the best sounding rooms I've had the pleasure of visiting and spending a good amount of time in."  -Clement Perry, http://www.stereotimes.com/CES08CPE.shtml

..............."Daniel Barnum of high-end distributor Half Note Audio (a real life descendant of P.T. Barnum himself) is fast becoming one of the most fascinating people in the industry to me. While many U.S. distributors are looking for inexpensive products that can be sold to the masses, Daniel seeks products that frankly, only a small tribe of people might be interested in or can afford. The roster of manufacturers represented in his room at the Venetian reads more like a “Who’s Who” of European hi-fi, except for an Oracle CD player that was the source component of his main room, but even that was connected to the Slovenian-made Stylos SYS DAC ($15,000). Shown is the new and very attractive Tidal Contriva loudspeaker ($44,900 in African Mohogany) and the legendary German made ASR Emitter II Exclusive B integrated amp ($26,900) which features two separate power supplies and a battery power supply for the preamp section. He also used the Tiffany-like Argento Serenity Master Reference cables (speaker cable $11,875/1m, interconnect $7,500/1m) and Flow Master Reference power cords ($4,950/2m) from Denmark throughout and an Audiostone equipment rack made in Norway. The amp sat on a Critical Mass Systems Grand Master isolation stand ($2,365). If you don’t know these companies very well yet, start doing some homework because they make some of the best products available."  -Dave Thomas, http://stereotimes.com/CES08DTb.shtml

................."This was absolutely one of the best, if not my favorite, room at CES this year. This was the room that I kept coming back and comparing the other rooms to. Daniel and Joe Barnum, et al, put on a wonderful demo that was musically involving, balanced, dynamic and detailed. The team did a wonderful job of setting up the system to give you a nice stage with a good sense of depth and layering. Music came by way of the beautiful TIDAL Contrivas ($44,900) being driven by the majestic looking ASR Emitter II Exclusive ($26,900). Digital source came via an Oracle transport driving the Stylos HAD D/A Converter ($15,000). Argento Serenity Master Reference cables and Argento Flow Power cables were used throughout. Equipment rack was provided by Audiostone and the isolation bases were Critical Mass Systems Grand Master Isolation System."  -Mike Wright, http://stereotimes.com/CES08MWa.shtml

 ....."Tidal Loudspeakers fronted a well-balanced system" -http://www.audiofederation.com/hifiing/2008/CES2008/day2/index.htm

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Critical Mass Systems teamed with ESP loudspeakers (Matrix Systems), Lamm electronics, and Argento cables (Half Note Audio) for the Rocky Mountain Audiofest 2007.  Here are comments on the room:

We are honored to win 2 Audio Oasis! Awards 

.................."This article is not a show report per se, however. We have other RMAF 2007 show reports in Issue 33 that give you an overview of the 140+ rooms that were on display. Instead, most of what I'll be doing is announcing my Audio Oasis! awards for the best rooms that I heard this year."  -David Robinson, Ph.D.  http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue34/rmaf_dr.htm

                  ............"No surprise at all here. Bobby Palkovic and Rich Brkich's rooms have been intensely musical and always pleasing for many years now. Once again, Bobby and Rich were demonstrating the excellent synergy that the Joule Electra VZN-100 Marquis Mk. IV monos (100-watts per channel of OTL, 6C33CB-based) have with the Merlin VSM-MXE speakers and Cardas cabling. I am very experienced with these Joule Electras on the exceptional CMS stands made by Joe Lavrencik. If you are looking for quick, luscious, wonderfully integrated sound—this is it!"  -David Robinson, Ph.D.  http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue34/rmaf_dr.htm

                ................."Another superior room: The ESP Loudspeakers/LAMM Industries/Critical Mass Systems/Argento Audio Cables/Matrx Systems/Abingdon Music Research/Halfnote Audio space. (Stop …take breath.)  The room stack: AMR CD-77 CD player and a LAMM LL2 preamp on CMS stands. These fed a pair of the superb LAMM M1.2 Reference hybrid amplifiers (my notes on these in the very near future) via Argento Audio cables, and on to a pair of ESP Bodhran SE speakers.

                   ..............."I have to say that I love the LAMM M1.2 Ref hybrid monos, pictured here with the Critical Mass Systems stands that have become a particular favorite of mine—Dr. Sardonicus loves 'em too. Intelligently designed, moderately powerful (110 WPC into a nominal 8 Ohms), and built like a tank, the M1.2's really hit the sweet tonal spot for me. Very articulate, but never dry—shaken, but not stirred! A great combo with the LL2, of course, but the ESPs clearly dug the connection, as well. Synergy galore."-David Robinson, Ph.D.  http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue34/rmaf_dr.htm

Let the Music Continue!

Posted Tue Oct 16, 2007, 12:05 PM ET — By Jason Victor Serinus

                            ................"When I entered the room assembled by Matrix Systems of Pennsylvania, Joe of Critical Mass (maker of excellent, hand-crafted supports for amplifiers and other components) was playing a recording of jazz vocalist Mary Stallings (Maxx Jazz). I was immediately captivated, both by the sound, and by Stallings' artistry. When Joe recognized me and asked me if I wanted to play some of my own music, "No way!" I exclaimed. "Let the music continue."

                     ……………."This was one of the few rooms I found myself utterly relaxed and comfortable in. " -Clement Perry StereoTimes http://www.stereotimes.com/RM2007CPa.shtml

................"As I entered the room, I was quickly greeted by mostly familiar faces and one or two new ones. Additionally, I quickly became aware of a sound reminiscent of the classic ESP sound. The Bodhrans, priced at $16,000, look quite similar to the magnificent ESP flagship Concert Grand Si loudspeakers, and can sound wonderful mated to the right electronics, cables and fed with a really good music source. First and foremost, these speakers provide a realistically very authentic soundstage that is wonderfully filled with music. No doubt the superb electronics used during this year’s exhibit (i.e., Lamm M1.2 Reference mono blocks and LL2 Deluxe preamp), outstanding Argento Audio cables (Serenity interconnects/speaker cables and Flow power cords), Avatar Audio AMR CD-77 CD player and Grand Mass Series Isolation Systems from Critical Mass Systems) helped achieve the good sound."  -Bill Wells http://www.stereotimes.com/

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Critical Mass Systems teamed with Lamm, Metronome, Kubala-Sosna and Wilson Watt/Puppy 8s  for the Home Entertainment Show hosted by Stereophile magazine at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Manhattan.  Art Dudley lauded the room as "Most convincing music".  Here is his comment on the room:

.............."Most convincing music: Unsurprisingly, this happened in the suite shared by Lamm Industries (preamps and power amps), Metronome Technologie (digital source components), Kubala-Sosna Research (cables) and Critical Mass Systems (isolation platforms).  A system comprising the current best components from those companies was driving a Wilson Audio Specialties Watt/Puppy 8 loudspeaker system and playing one nice selection after another, when I was surprised to hear it get even better: a baritone I didn't recognize singing an aria from Verdi's Rigolleto.  That decades old mono recording was captivating - and, through that system, the silences between the notes, the presence of the voice, and, above all, the organic note-to-note flow of the melody were superb, all towering above anything else I heard that weekend.........I thought: We need more of all these things".  -Art Dudley Stereophile, Vol. 30 No.8 August 2007

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From the Positive Feedback-Online article, "The Good Doctor Plays Second Fiddle - Sidebar to Dave Clark's EMM Labs' CDSA-SE SACD Player Review"

..............Same holds true for the Critical Mass filters. I tried the Meitner with and without them, and once again, huge difference.

This is not a complaint, merely an observation. Obviously, if this stuff did not work like gangbusters on EVERYTHING, I would not have it in my system …it is the fact that it works so well on the Meitner that gives me pause.  -Dr. Sardonicus  http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue31/sard.htm

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Hi Jud and Joe, right from the very beginning of the process of acquiring both the Joule Electra amplifiers and the Critical Mass Stands, the process was flawless.

Both you and Jud not only make unbelievable products but you manage your business relationship in the same fine professional fashion. You do what you say you are going to do, a rare commodity today and you do it with humility.

The amplifiers and the stands both came packed in fine form, totally protected and arrived in perfect condition. 

A long time audiophile friend and I unpacked all the gear and set it up in place on my hard wood living room floor complete with spikes and steel floor protectors. 

The fact that the stands were custom built to precisely match the Joule Electra Destinys could not have made a better match sonically, physically or visually.

I have to say that after 2 years of searching for perfection I have finally found it.  My system sounds pristine and I have you, Jud and Boz of Tact Audio, who by the way also makes spectacular products and provides over the top service to his clients, to thank for it.

My hat is off to all three of you.

My quest for better and better components is finally over.  I may still go to the local esoteric audio shop and will still attend the Denver Audio show but much more for fun and to listen then to acquire.

I can't thank you enough.  The whole package was well worth the wait.

With best regards and great appreciation,

Dave

PS an added huge benefit... even my lovely wife who happens to be an architect and is very selective thinks the combination looks great....go figure.

Pictured: Home Entertainment Show New York 2007, Peter McGrath of Wilson Audio calculating

the best placement of the Watt/Puppy 8 loudspeakers in a very difficult Grand Hyatt

conference room.  The man himself on the floor: this is dedication to Excellence!

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Pictured: Home Entertainment Show, New York 2007.  Elina Lamm with Grand Master

Isolation System under Metronome Kalista Reference transport (upper) and

Master Isolation System under DAC (middle).  Rack in ebonized maple.  

All front end equipment feeding into world-class Lamm electronics.

From the Positive Feedback-Online article," The Good Doctor Experiences an Epic, Epistemological Epiphany - A Break on Through to the Other Side"

........Over the years I have heard, in various combinations, a significant cross-section of the finest audio on the planet, and more rarely than encountering a competent government employee, have I ever found magic.

Now I have found it at a level I have never experienced previously. And it is magic that endures. I can change something fundamental, such as my choice of amplification and still keep the magic………

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Recently a review of the Halcyonics Micro 40 was written by William Wright for Positive Feedback Online and Critical Mass Systems was mentioned.  Critical Mass Systems are a hybrid isolation system capturing many of the best features of active systems while avoiding many of the pitfalls of fully passive systems.  Our hybrid systems are 3 to 5 times less expensive than most active systems.  We are very pleased that Critical Mass Systems performed well in his system.  See our FAQ page: How can Critical Mass Systems patented design perform better than other systems? 

Here is a quote from en email Will Wright sent just after the review was published.  “As to my Halcyonics review; I didn't dislike the GM under my preamp, I was just surprised at the effect the Micro 40 had in that position.  Alternatively, I think I prefer the GM under my turntable as opposed to the Micro 40.”

....................."I decided it was time to try out the Grand Master I had purchased to go under my turntable in its intended application. At first I had planned to move the Micro 40 back under my universal player, but after pulling it out from under the turntable to install the Grand Master I got lazy and decided "what the heck, I'll put it under my preamp instead," just temporarily.  ..........Much to my surprise, I ended up preferring this configuration. Although this is most probably not where I would have ended up without the Grand Master platforms to go under my source components, this configuration provided the best overall performance for the whole system. Whether spinning records or optical discs, the results were sublime."  - William Wright   http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue29/halcyonics.htm

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In January 2007 Critical Mass Systems joined Lamm Industries, Metronome Technologies, Wilson Audio and Kubala-Sosna cables at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.  The ultimate moment of the show occurred when Vladimir Lamm powered up his crowning lifetime achievement, the ML3 32-watt power amplifier; a dual-chassis design that defies sonic descriptions.  It was immediately obvious that a new pinnacle had been reached in audio reproduction. 

The lucky few invited guests on hand agreed that the sound was the most life-like reproduction of an original event heard to date.  Vladimir fed the right channel of the system with the ML3 and A/B'd the sound to the ML2.1 feeding the left channel.  It is a given in the industry that the the ML2.1 is easily one of the very best tube amplifiers in the world and so shall it remain.  The ML3 presents a sonic picture that will earn a reputation for greatness in the Lamm family of electronics.

The unique GM70 tube glows brightly in ML3 amplifier with its tube power supply sitting to the right.  Carrying in one's hands an amplifier costing $126,290 is a unique feeling.

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Pictured: Wilson Audio Watt/Puppy 8 loudspeakers, Kubala-Sosna cabling, Lamm M1.2 Reference (back row).  Lamm ML2.1 feeding left channel (front left). 

Lamm ML3 dual chassis feeding right channel (2 chassis front right).  The ML3 is profoundly musical with a natural ease that defies description.

Grand Master isolation systems in Rosewood.

In 2006, we were honored by Positive Feedback Online with 3 separate Awards; 2 Brutus Awards and a Writers Choice Award were presented for our racks and isolation systems.  It is particularly gratifying to receive recognition for enhancing the musical performance of such preeminent Brands as Boulder, EMM Labs, Esoteric, Lamm, BAT and Lindemann.

                                   ...............I'll put it this way: I've noticed that solid state gear likes the CMS Grandmaster Black Label stands very well, though I should also note that my experience with the CMS stands and the Joule Electra Rites of Passage OTL monoblocks was also terrific. (Must have been; both received Brutus Awards in 2005!)      - David W. Robinson Ph. D.   http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue28/gizmo.htm

                               ..................This extraordinary equipment has literally transformed my system to the point I cannot imagine life without it. Virtually everything I have sits on Joe's amazing platforms and stands.     ..........simply amazing.   - Dr. Sardonicus     http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue28/awards2006.htm

                               ...................under the highly resolving front end of the EMM Labs CDSD and DCC2 Signature Edition components, switching them from my earlier Michael Green Justarack. The results were extremely pleasing: the music now seems to be more coherent, with a better sense of ease and integration.      - David W. Robinson Ph. D.

My current benchmark in a digital transport: the EMM Labs

CDSD Signature Edition, resting on another Brutus Award

winner for 2006, the Critical Mass Systems Grandmaster

Black Label Isolation Platform and Stand.

This is a highly synergistic tandem.    

- David W. Robinson Ph. D.

Critical Mass Systems Grandmaster Black Isolation Platforms on a

CMS Custom Maple Rack—a very synergistic home for the EMM

Labs Signature Edition front end!        - David W. Robinson Ph. D.

The Teac Esoteric X-01 SACD player on the Critical Mass Systems

Grandmaster Black Label platform: a truly excellent combination.

- David W. Robinson Ph. D.

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Review of BAT VK-P10SE phono stage preamplifier, BAT VK-51SE line stage preamplifier, and the BAT VK-600SE solid state power amplifier with Master and Reference isolation systems mounted on Critical Mass Systems rack and Grand Master amplifier isolation systems:

……………the VK-P10SE is mounted on one of the Critical Mass filters and the effect of moving from prior Black Diamond and a Justarack is shocking. The background is inky black; the soundstage grew by a couple of feet in every direction. There is significantly increased detail retrieval …mucho better.

……….....nestled directly on the Critical Mass Isolation filters, the VK-51-SE has few peers and probably no superiors.

Summary - The Balanced Audio Experience………….They are particularly fond of JENA Labs wire and benefit enormously from AC filtering and the incredible isolation of Critical Mass filters and stands, ………..when you provide the right environment the results are simply staggering.

-Dr. Sardonicus  Positive Feedback Issue 25 http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue25/sardon_bat.htm

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During the Strereophile HE 2006 show in Los Angeles, Critical Mass Systems teamed with the Dynaudio C4, the XLH M2000 monoblocks, Leonardo CD player and preamp from aaa-Audio and Jena Labs cabling and AC purification in room 416 of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel.  Here are a few comments on the room:

..............Proving that you could create beautiful music within the confines of a cement hotel room, AAA Audio was showing off their new disc player atop the Critical Mass Systems isolation platform.  -Jon Iverson Stereophile HE 2006 Show Report  http://blog.stereophile.com/he2006//index2.html

 ………….colossal dynamics, breathtaking dimensionality and spectral coherency.   –Constantine Soo, DAGOGO HE2006 Los Angeles http://www.dagogo.com/Events/HE2006LAX/Page3.html

....................when Gong played Rutter's Requiem through Dynaudio Confidence C-4s, the noise floor seemed staggeringly low, and when the organ's pedal tones started to swell under the chorus, he actually started to apologize for the sounds coming from the neighboring Earthquake room. But no, the sounds were all coming from his system—and they were physically convincing. I felt the music the way you feel it sitting stage-side at a jazz club, something very few systems reproduce at all well.   -Wes Phillips Stereophile HE 2006 Show Report  http://blog.stereophile.com/he2006//index2.html

………I was wowed.  .........I was very impressed with this presentation.  -Robert Levi Positive Feedback-Online http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue25/he2006bl.htm

.........This room has gotten some big love from other publications like Stereophile and one VIP who I swore not to mention said that out of the two Dynaudio rooms, this one was the best.  -Josh Ray SonicFlare  http://www.sonicflare.com/archives/he2006-aaaaudio-and-dynaudio.php

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Review of Lamm M1.2 Monoblocks onboard Grand Master isolation systems: 

.........I tried the Lamms directly on the floor, on maple slabs, and on Black Diamond shelves. Then I put them on the Critical Mass System Grand Master stands, and that was pretty much the end of that little hegira. Precisely in the same way the Critical Mass impacted the incomparable Lindemann 820 SACD player, these stunningly attractive stands found obvious and essential synergy with the Lamm M1.2s. I thought the M1.2s might be just a tad bass shy on initial examination, but no, no, Nanook …they just needed proper foundations.

I can't say enough about the Critical Mass Systems products; they are beautiful, affordable and they flat work.  -Dr. Sardonicus  Positive Feedback Issue 24 http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue24/lamm12.htm

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Review of Lindemann 820 CD/SACD player onboard Master isolation system: 

......I think this focus on vibration control is significant to the synergy between the Lindemann player and the Critical Mass Systems isolation platform. The player is specifically designed to wick vibration away from the player itself into the mounting surface, and the Critical Mass Systems isolation platforms are designed to immediately accept this energy and convert it into heat.

......Ok, so, how does it sound?

I don't know any other way to say it …this is the most musical, beautiful digital playback I have ever heard. The only comparable playback experience I have had is from the Walker Proscenium Gold analog turntable. Everyone who has heard the Lindemann in my system has had pretty much the same reaction…......

........Partnered up with AC filtering and wire from JENA Labs and properly mounted to the Critical Mass isolation platform, I promise you; this incredible player will redefine what you think about digital reproduction.

-Dr. Sardonicus  Positive Feedback Issue 24 http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue24/lindemann_820.htm

Pictured: Boulder 2010 and 2020 Balanced Premap and DAC.  Lindemann 820 CD/SACD on Master isolation systems and rack

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Review of Master and Reference isolation systems mounted on CMS rack with BAT VK-51SE and Lindemann 820 onboard: 

 ............Well, my response was immediate. I had to move those gargantuan XLH Reference speakers around, forward and apart. It was so obvious, I couldn't understand why I hadn't reached that conclusion long before. Hum …Interesting. I even knew pretty much exactly how far I needed to move them …it was just intuitively obvious. Hum, even more interesting.

When I did manage to shove those hyper-testosterone laden monsters around I got a walk-in sized soundstage; bass that sounded like it was being generated in the rock strata meters below the house, and this crystalline overall character that brought an enormous grin to my face.

And I know why.

In his preview the Good Doctor brings attention to the interfaces we provide as the interface between the component and the isolation system.  Care must be exercised to ensure the top surface of the isolation system is not penetrated or heavily scratched.  The interfaces offer protection and the ability to "tune" the platforms for specific equipment, but there are many products on the market specifically made to drain energy.  Most of the soft OEM equipment feet are fine, but have fun and experiment to find what works best for you.

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Critical Mass Systems is the proud recipient of the Brutus Award from Positive Feedback Online (http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue22/brutus05dr.htm).  Making the accolade an even greater honor, was recognition by the journal's Editor-in-Chief himself, Mr. David Robinson. 

 Here are David’s words explaining the Award:

To review the criteria that the Positive Feedback Online Brutus Awards embody, I'll quote from my original article announcing their launch, back in December of 2003 (Issue 10 at http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue10/brutusawards.htm):

[The Brutus Award] will be recognition given to "the best and the brightest" products that we have experienced in various categories in a given year. In hardware, these will range from "best bang for the buck" to "the best period, and hang the expense!" designs. In recordings, we'll be paying tribute to the best that we've found in various formats. In addition, we'll have a "Lifetime Achievement Award" that will recognize individuals whose contributions to fine audio in various respects has been both superior and sustained.

All products that are so recognized by PFO will be work that has been reviewed by us personally; no design will be recognized that we do not have experience with in our listening rooms.

In other words, the Brutus is not given to a product that we heard at a show; the product must be tried by the editors in their own listening rooms, and must impress us sufficiently to merit the honor after consideration at the end of the year. (I give one set of Brutus Awards; Dave Clark gives the other.)

Our Comments:  Thank you David; this is a great honor for Critical Mass Systems.  You have our commitment to continue earning the Brutus Award now and in the future.  For Critical Mass Systems, excellence is a process of continuous improvement; evolution through research and development to advance the enjoyment and growth of audio and video.

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In January of 2006, Joule-Electra, Elrod Power Systems and Critical Mass Systems teamed up for the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada.  This was our 3rd show together and the most enjoyable. 

Along with my extraordinarily talented team members, Critical Mass Systems received the PFO Audio Oasis! Award CES 2006.  The complete article can be read at:  http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue23/ces06dr.htm.  Once again, the Maestro himself Mr. David Robinson, Editor-in-Chief, presented the accolade; a deeply felt and humbling honor.

Here are David’s words:

There was a powerful synergy going in this room, with all components working extremely well together. The listening experience that it provided the listener with is spilling over with full-range sound that was clean and clear—a real strength of great OTLs with muscle (those 6C-33CBs have oomph, all right) and linear preamplification. Jud Barber certainly builds that …he's a master of OTLology. Elrod and Critical Mass Systems seem to go hand-in-glove into this system…and I was able to relax, listen, and not worry about being perplexed.

A real blessing, that.

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I wish to share some recent assessments.  For the last several nights, I have noticed the pleasure I receive from this set-up is the most consistently blissful I have ever experienced.  I seldom become distracted with questions of “what if".  You know; what if I change this or add that. 

I have placed 2wo Elrod Signature AC cords into the drive section of the Joule-Electra Rites of Passage which is a nice addition.  But mostly, the components appear to have reached the freedom to impart their full potential.  And this attribute to your Grand Master bases.  The improvements in subtleties have unmasked the musical presentation in spades.  Although, the changes were immediately evident, many listening sessions exposed the true possibilities this system has realized.  In time, I look forward to all the components upon your bases.

It is hard to describe experiences without verbosity.  I know you know what I know, but I must again thank you for the beautiful product you produce.

All the Best,

Steve Neufeld

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Just wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying the three isolation platforms you built for our reference system. The impact these platforms have on the system is so far beyond any other platform I've tested/heard/used that it's simply ridiculous.

Using them under my Joule amps allows the dynamics of the system to unfold with such speed and clarity that it can literally scare you...using the platform under the Wadia CD player has a HUGE impact on delivering what this heavily modified piece can do. Your work is showing me more of the music than I've ever heard from an audio system before. The clarity and lack of distortion of the system just isn't there to nearly this degree without these platforms and dynamics...never heard anything have an effect on macro and micro dynamics like these platforms do.

Honestly, the impact on these components in our system are way beyond what I thought was possible. You are setting the new reference standard in component isolation and helping show how good music playback in the home can be. Keep up the good work and know that you are having a really big effect on our enjoyment of the system here and truly helping us by providing such useful reference tools. Thanks a million!

Steve Huntley
Great Northern Sound Co.

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Pictured: Home Entertainment Show, New York 2007 Ronald Lavrencik checking

his calculations. 

Impatiently, I waited to get your isolation platforms under my Joule-Electra VZN-100 Monoblocks because I already had one of your platforms under my turntable (displacing a Black Diamond shelf), and it had made a big, positive difference in the sound of music.

The effect under the turntable was instantaneous and it made a much better marriage of the Michell Orbe / SME V arm / Clearaudio Signature cartridge than had been audible with the Black Diamond cones and shelf. With your platform, good equipment just sounded better.

The experience has repeated itself across many listening sessions on LPs, CDs, Classical, Jazz and Pop recordings with your platforms supporting the VZN-100 amps. Again, the marriage made in Oak Brook, Illinois reulted in another step toward unveiling the music; the instrumentation, detail and timbre; the extension and frequency range, and particularly the lows have more presence. And Joe, how many manufacturers come to the home, listen, measure the dimensions and weight of a mechanical or electronic part that requires understanding to work right?

In your product, I have handcrafted, well-designed, and finely finished furniture.

Thank You

Nathan Glaser, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist

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I have a Linn Sondek LP12 that I wanted to try with a Critical Mass Systems isolation platform.  Linn's recommendation is to use a light & rigid table rather than massive piece of furniture and they contend that special stands do not work with their turntable.  In the past, I've tended to believe them because every time I tried special feet under the LP12 or placed it on a different, sturdier table, something, usually the bass response, was missing. 

From the very first time I set the needle to the groove after setting up the turntable upon the stand, I could tell something was different.  I started to hear that I had another one-half to one full octave of solid bass.  Everything is tighter, more musical and relaxed, the soundstage and imaging is much more defined and the improvement in detail is incredible.  After listening a little while, I tried listening to the turntable without the performance stand and suddenly I heard how lifeless and flat the sound had been before.  A week earlier I had been very pleased with the sound! 

Friends who have purchased these platforms have had great results placing them under turntables, CD players, amplifiers and preamps.  I would recommend these isolation platforms to anyone.

Peter Bowne
Chicago, IL
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I've been meaning to get back to you regarding the platform you built for the Wadia 861 for some time, but haven't had the time until now.

Let me start by saying that during the few weeks that I was waiting for you to build the platform, I burned in my Wadia 861 with Steve Huntley's (GNSC) Statement modification. I had plenty of time for some late night critical listening sessions with the Wadia, and I believed that CD playback quality had pretty much reached its pinnacle. The GNSC modified Wadia creates an almost magical, integrated and mesmerizing musical experience that rivals vinyl playback. So, I have to admit I was a bit skeptical as to whether a Critical Mass Systems platform would provide a discernable improvement.

Well, my skepticism was unfounded. Indeed, your platform brings each component of the musical presentation into sharper focus . . . the bass is tighter, the separation of the instruments is more pronounced, the soundstage is more defined, and the vocals are more substantive and commanding. It is analogous to going from regular TV to HDTV in that all the elements are present in both presentations, but the HDTV is sharper and more defined . . . simply better. That is how I feel about the Critical Mass Systems platform . . . sharper, more defined . . . simply better.

Plus, I appreciate your prompt responses to my many follow-up questions. It is obvious that with every platform you sell, along with it comes your personal pride in your product, attention to details and responsible customer service. I'll be back in touch to get another platform when I have settled on a "keeper" turntable.

Thanks a lot.
Tad Shimazu
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Over the years I have experimented with nearly every device you can put under an audio component. Always, there was a difference and often it was somewhat better, but the experimentation continued as the trade-offs of each device became less acceptable. Prior to using a Critical Mass System there were always trade-offs. After using the Critical Mass system for quite a few months, I am now convinced there are NO trade-offs. Massive improvements, yes. Across the board the performance increase is significant without any intrusive trade-offs or compromise.

My Wadia 7 transport, which is a very stout component built to withstand real rigors in the real world, now achieves a much higher level of performance across the full spectrum of sound. The first sensation with the CM system installed is the increased cleanliness of the sound. The Wadia 7 is far from a glary or grungy component, yet hearing the increased clarity without  etch, or anything sounding forced is quite astonishing. This transport is a real horse in terms of dynamics, power and soldiity and remains so with the CM stand. Yet music floats through it now with such clarity and focus that removing the platform (for comparison purposes) was nothing but aggravation personified.

Every aspect of the sound is significantly better. In part due to the increase in clarity, but also due to the effortlessness of the music moving through a component without being abused by the real world. The component responds as if it is floating in zero gravity and free of struggle and constraint. This yields music that is relaxed and more open. It is the opposite of sound being stuffed through circuitry which is being assaulted by the sound it is producing.

In my honest opinion this is a product that is truly aimed at helping the music lover becoming ever more deeply involved with the music by encouraging the continued exploration of their existing software, while simultaneously encouraging the investigation of new music. Few products really accomplish this. Get the ones that do. I will be obtaining more Critical Mass Systems stands in the near future.

Clark Walding
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