Digital Processor Reviews

Sidebar 2: Review System

The IDAT was driven by the Theta Data II transport via its ST-type optical output, or a Museatex CD-D deck through a coaxial connection. The new Proceed PDT 3 transport also drove the IDAT via its ST-type optical output.

Loudspeakers were Hales System Two Signatures (with and without the Muse Model 18 subwoofer) driven by VTL 225W Deluxe monoblocks or a Mark Levinson No.23.5.

Loudspeaker cables were 3' runs of bi-wired AudioQuest Sterling and Midnight. Interconnects included Expressive Technologies IC-2, AudioQuest Diamond, and AudioQuest Lapis (balanced). The preamp was the Audio Research LS2 or its balanced brother, the LS2B ("Follow-Up" forthcoming).

The IDAT's balanced outputs also drove the No.23.5 directly through Electronic Visionary Systems Ultimate Balanced Attenuators. With this last arrangement, however, it was impossible to match levels with other balanced-output processors due to the IDAT's output level and the Attenuators' too-large step size. The IDAT also saw time with the Exposure XV integrated amplifier reviewed last month.—Robert Harley