Special Edition: Art Audio In Focus
Article By Steven R. Rochlin
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  The February 2006 edition of Superior Audio showcased turntable and cartridge specialist Clearaudio. It brings us joy to once again bring into spotlight a company whose products consistently enhance the joy and musical bliss of audiophiles all around the world. Today, Art Audio's highly respected products are familiar with audiophile worldwide. But this was not always the case. Single-ended tube audio was almost a unknown to modern day audiophiles nearly a decade ago. Back then certain mainstream publications were more concerned about watts-per-dollar, with the large mega-wattage monoblocks appearing to receive the highest accolades. There is nothing wrong with that train of thought mind you, as most loudspeaker manufacturers at the time were busy manufacturing inefficient designs with crossover part counts reaching that of what may be found within a single-ended amplifier! Fortunately, loudspeaker manufacturers have discovered that less = more and the same goes for amplifier designers.

Art Audio's direction has been shaped by Joe Fratus and British amplifier designer Tom Willis. Over the years many products by Art Audio came to market, with each one gathering praise from audiophiles and reviewers worldwide. Today the company's formidable lineup of award-winning tube products include single-ended triode, and push/pull stereo and mono amplifiers, remote-controlled tube preamplifiers, 24-bit/96kHz tube DACs and tubed phono stages. David Gill, whose expertise in low-level and digital circuitry, has joined forces with Joe Fratus and Tom Willis.

Here we are in 2006 and old school mega-watt amplifiers, including those from solid-state(!) manufacturers, have given way to low powered units. The loudspeaker community stepped up to the plate and now offers highly efficient units that have stable 8 ohm loads. As the saying goes, "If you do not get the first watt right, there is no desire for 100 more of them." And on that note, we here at Superior Audio proudly present our special manufacturer highlight featuring Art Audio. Of course in the end what really matters is that you...

Enjoy the Music

Steven R. Rochlin
Editor