WE'RE MOVING!
The Terrace Houses in Upper Stuart Street have been the base for Totally Wired for over 25 years but it’s time for us to move. On the last day of the year - December 31st 2016 - we'll be closing the door at 217 Stuart Street for the last time. But as one door closes, another opens.
Totally Wired is a whole lot more than just a retail space. Our website has continually developed and we’re now at the point where roughly 80% of our business is on-line with clients not just in New Zealand but all around the world. Even within Dunedin, we find that people will consult our website first and only visit the shop to confirm what they have already established.
In the last two years we’ve also established two fantastic agencies where we are able to bring you products directly from the designers - the NuPrime range of electronics and the Australian KLEI cables from Keith Eichmann. In both cases we’ve got a long history with the brands and having done well with them, the chance to take a step out of the conventional distribution structure allows us to deliver you better value and carry a greater range in stock.
We’re also planning to concentrate more on the best components from our other partners - the Well Tempered turntables, Sonus faber speakers, Stax electrostatic headphones and Pure Audio amplifiers being obvious examples.
And yes, we’re most certainly still your best source for both Tivoli radios and Geneva wifi systems.
So - watch this space for more news. We’ll soon detail our Boxing Day - End of Lease sale in which we’ll be clearing all surplus stock and a great many interesting fittings and items including artworks, posters, furniture and more. It’s amazing what you accumulate in over 25 years.
In early January you’ll start to see significant improvements to our web presence as well as some very cool new product launches. And with a bit of luck we’ll be announcing our new address in town around March. Keep in touch - we’re never more than an e mail or phone call away.
As if this isn't enough challenge, Carolijn* has also returned to the University of Otago to add a Dip grad to her BA and is then looking to progress to Honours - she's really enjoying this and is still finding time to help out and keep our Facebook page and on-line store up to date. *For those that are wondering, Carolyn was Sharon's original name and she's taken this further by going back to the original Dutch spelling of her heritage - hence Carolijn.
In the meantime we’re still here to help. For our Otago clients I’m now unencumbered by conventional retail hours so are able to visit you in your own home and demonstrate our best products in this context. For all of you outside of Dunedin I’ll have more time allowing faster and more considered responses.
While our shop has almost become iconic in the same way as Roi Colbert's adjoining Records, Records was, the reality is that they also mirror the stereotype of Dunedin flats - old, damp and bone chillingly cold in winter. Two ceilings in the upstairs demonstration rooms have fallen in on their own accord and we've been putting out buckets every time it rains for years. With our lease up for renewal and the certainty of associated escalating insurance costs for old buildings, the changes in retail driven by the internet and the desire to progress, we’ve got plenty of good reasons to move.
But the biggest single factor in our decision to move is the earthquake risk. Anyone in Christchurch will know exactly where we are coming from, many in Wellington will also be thinking along the same lines. How can we build a more resilient and adaptable business to manage these risks?
Understanding Earthquake Risk
I’ve got a particular interest in both earthquakes and the Alpine fault having gained a degree in Geology at Otago. My Honours thesis covered the area where the Alpine fault runs parallel to the Jackson River and intersects the Livingstone Fault so you’ll understand that I’ve seen first hand and close up, the scale and power associated with the Alpine Fault.
You may also be starting to think that the present situation is close to ‘normal’. After all, we’ve had it drummed into us that New Zealand is earthquake prone. But if you look at the history of the larger earthquakes you’ll quickly see that there has been a long, comparatively quiet period, from the early 1940s right through to 2003.
Let’s consider the last thirteen years starting with the Secretary Island M7.1 in 2003 which was the biggest quake since 1968 (The Inangahua M7.1 which was in my early childhood). This was followed by the significantly larger 2009 Dusky M7.8. Both of these are on the southern end of the Alpine Fault and while well distant from Dunedin, were felt by many here.
The 2010 M7.1 Darfeild earthquake was, in hindsight, the real wake up call. The devastating M6.3 Christchurch quake the following February should have eliminated any complacency.
Yet the M6.5 Cook Straight and M6.6 Seddon events in July and August happened with the same ‘that was lucky, we dodged a bullet’ comments and everyone got back to business as usual.
This year the September 2016 East Cape M7.1 had the residents of Te Araroa very sensibly running for the hills.
The Kaikoura M7.8 has again shown up serious shortcomings in our emergency responses and the fragility of the road and rail links.
It is my contention that are now well past the point of random co-incidence and right in the middle of a period of greatly heightened seismicity and risk. And the greatest part of this risk is the Alpine Fault.
The Alpine Fault, which runs for about 600km up the spine of the South Island, is one of the world’s major geological features. It’s the "on-land" boundary of the Pacific and Australian Plates.
This fault has ruptured four times in the past 900 years, each time producing an earthquake of about magnitude 8. Approximate rupture dates are 1717AD, 1620 AD, 1450 AD, and 1100 AD. Recent research (published in 2012) by GNS Science has extended our knowledge of the Alpine fault earthquake record back through the past 8000 years. Click here for more details of these findings.
GNS suggest the Alpine Fault has a high probability (estimated at 30%) of rupturing in the next 50 years*. The rupture will produce one of the biggest earthquakes since European settlement of New Zealand, and it will have a major impact on the lives of many people. In between earthquakes, the Alpine Fault is locked. All these things mean that the Alpine Fault is a globally significant geological structure.
*I would expect that this risk assessment, made in 2012, will now be subject to revision.
While the long running record suggests a mean period of 330 years between major (M8.0+) events, the last 4 rupture dates are separated by 97, 170 and 350 years respectively. It's not possible to directly correlate stresses either created or relieved by the movements at either end of the fault with an impending event, but we do know that these quakes are all part of the same tectonic system.
I can well appreciate that GNS scientists don't want to be alarmist and add to the stress and worry that many might feel. They will be cautious, measured and thorough in their reports. But I suspect that, like many climate scientists, they are very, very worried.
Because of all these factors, I now consider the risk of a damaging earthquake affecting Dunedin to be more than significant. So what do we do? Learn as much as we can and prepare.
While Dunedin is furthest city in the South Island from the Alpine fault, the geological structures surrounding it are not dissimilar to Christchurch so a smaller but closer quake cannot be discounted.
There were several known faults near the city, including the Maungatua fault, the North Taieri fault and the Titri fault which bear direct comparison.
In either scenario, Dunedin’s stock of old unimproved buildings like ours pose a real problem. The unreinforced double brick walls, lathe plaster and borer ridden timber framing and floors may ooze character, but there is no way they inspire any form of security in a shake. Ten years ago we felt safe. Now we don’t.
All you have to do is look at what happened to buildings of a similar construction to ours in Christchurch. At the time we talked about what we'd do, but like many, we thought it a one-off and were assured that the Terrace Houses were on the list for upgrading. But that never happened.
While the Christchurch quake has focused attention on the building standards, I’d suggest any rating or assurances given on the safety of any building warrants closer scrutiny. Given we know modern buildings in Wellington (that were apparently up to full code) were sufficiently damaged by a quake with a centre around 100km distant to be demolished, it is completely plausible that many historic buildings around Dunedin with ratings of less than 50% of code are highly likely to fail under similar circumstances. If this happens during the working day as it did in Christchurch you really don’t want to be working in a building that hasn’t (at the very least) been recently strengthened or closely assessed and found to be fully compliant.
Even before we are in a safer venue, we are working to make Totally Wired more resilient. By maintaining both a rural home and a city based venue we can spread any risk. Systems and backups are being duplicated. Likewise we’re distributing our web presence between providers and in fact countries. The key to this is we are here for the long run, both in terms of being able to deliver cool new product but also to be able to help our clients and provide ongoing service and advice.
When looking for our new shop I’m no longer prepared to accept the assurance of any building owner at face value and as much as I’ve loved being in an iconic historical building, this is one of the reasons we’re now actively looking for something better. Equally I think that it is unacceptable for employers to knowingly risk the lives of employees and for landlords to continue to defer strengthening while still taking rent.
All these changes might sound daunting, but now we have embarked upon them it’s really not that hard and actually quite exciting. We’re looking at everything we do with fresh eyes and finding new and better ways to do things as well as being able to focus on what really matters.
On a personal level you may well be considering the same thing both in your workplace and home - there are some very good resources out there to get you started. Being ready for an earthquake is also being ready for many other events.I’m a firm advocate of a well stocked veggie garden and a Tivoli PAL radio with a spare battery pack. Which are wonderful things at any time.
We wish you well - John Ransley & Carolijn Guytonbeck.
August 2016 - What's new at Totally Wired?
The Best of all Worlds
Digital or analogue, wireless or directly connected, we've got some brilliant new products that are going to make your music sound much better. You'll find these new components work in surprising ways.
NuPrime MCH-K38 8 channel power amplifier
This may well be our best amplifier of any description. We get all technical in this review and look closely at exactly what makes this design tick and examine all the ins and outs of bridging, especially how to make the most of things when you've got so many channels to play with. The MCH-K38 is awesomely powerful with the potential to send 800 watts to each of your speakers. Find out how to make the most of this here.
The new Questyle QP1-R DAP NZ$1650
Learn all about the new Questyle QP1-R personal DAP - Digital Audio Player - at Totally Wired. Right now the QP1-R is the hot ticket amongst high resolution personal players. Having only got a quick hands-on a few weeks ago, I'd been converted in the first minute. Every aspect of the Questyle is class - the packaging, the build quality is like nothing I've come across before in hifi and the operation is genuinely intuitive.
We review the QP1-R and discuss why it's better than both and iPod and other players. Also how to make the most of the sound quality of the QP1-R with both headphones and connected to real world hifi systems. Read more here.
Stax Electrostatic Ear Speakers
There are a few legendary audio components that really do justify their reputation. Stax headphones do. It has been this way for around 40 years and while lots of other headphone brands come and go, it is Stax who still set the standard.
Stax are brilliant - not only do they give you all of the sonic benefits of electrostatic speakers, they also address the limitations of the full sized speakers in several important ways.
Being headphones - or more correctly ear speakers, the sound they deliver is independent of the room - so no matter where you choose to listen you'll enjoy the same fantastic sound.
'The first thing you notice when you listen to Stax earspeakers is the space they give, the Stax sound is an airy and musical sound. It kind of feels like the band is dangling on strings beside your ears.'
Introduce yourself to the Stax range here.
New Tivoli PAL Bluetooth Limited Edition 'Glo' Radio NZ$ 499
Light and sound are two good energies to have in life. This newest addition Tivoli brings the two together in a clear frosted LED illuminated version of the favourite PALBT radio. The LED light is adjustable to suit your setting and also an added leather strap makes it easier to carry round with you. Available in New Zealand in time for summer, carry it on your bike, quietly send the children to sleep with music and a nightlight, set out on the deck as dusk falls, have beside the camp fire. The PALBT Glo is the 'teddybear' of radios. Get yours now as only 5000 have been produced for the world.
KLEI gPower2 AC power cable
Introducing the long awaited the new KLEI AC cable. This cable will dramatically improve the performance of almost every system - and given it is just NZ$ 500 for 1m, I know of no other way to do so much for so little - this is regardless of the type or cost of system. In short, if you have any audio component with a standard size detachable power cable this is for you. Read why...
Pure Audio
There is something special about NZ made and it's highly likely that you own, or have owned one or more components that have been designed or built in New Zealand. There are plenty of good reasons to have a favourable bias towards NZ made - it's designed and made here, by people you may well know who have developed it, not just for export but also to suit local listeners. Pure Audio is designed and built by Gary Morrison and Ross Stevens - between them they are responsible for Craft, the best of the Plinius models and even a little bit of Perreaux. The Pure Audio range is the culmination.
The Vinyl Moving Coil phono stage, Control analogue preamplifier and Reference Mono power amplifiers are now joined by the new Duo Stereo power amplifier. Over the last month we've been increasingly in awe of the performance of the Duo. This is a remarkable amplifier by anyones standards. There are a series of unique features in the design that allow it to deliver stunning performance in a wide range of systems. There is both power and subtlety, performance and practicality, all built into a distinctive and original aesthetic to give a pride of ownership that few if any imports will ever match.
The arrival of the Duo has prompted us to re-evaluate all of the Pure Audio products - since introduction the eco-system around the models has improved dramatically - better analogue and digital front ends, better speakers and vastly better connection options. Pure Audio is more than up to the task. So as well as writing up the new Duo, we've also greatly expanded upon our original Pure Audio pages. Anyone with an interest in NZ made, and hifi at its best, owe it to themselves to investigate Pure Audio further. We've got the new Duo, Control and Vinyl on demonstration in the shop right now.
NuPrime
For 2016 we’ve already got 3 brand new models from NuPrime which we have spent a good deal of the summer break evaluating. They could easily be described as entry level yet are components with serious high end aspirations that will provide you with revelatory performance. In stock now are new NuPrime 9 Series consisting of 3 new high performance separates for both digital and analogue enthusiasts.
The DAC-9. This is obviously a DAC but with several distinct twists. As well as the usual array of digital inputs there is also analogue in. It's also a highly competent preamplifier. NZ$1350
The STA-9 stereo power amplifier shares the same casework as the DAC-9 and is an obvious match. But it is much more than just the power amplifier section of the IDA-8. NZ$1200
The HPA-9 doesn't fit into any conventional labeling as a component. Call it an analogue preamplifier, a phono stage and a headphone amplifier combined but with some stand out qualities. It is an intriguing mix, that takes a while to understand. But there will be situations where it's easily the best answer. NZ$1200
Cambridge CXU Universal Disc player - The Best Yet NZ$2,195
Cambridge Audio's new CXU BlueRay and universal disc player is the very best iteration of this line and stands as the best sounding machine of its type from any manufacturer. In both picture and sound quality, surround sound for movies and stereo for music, the CXU is the class leader and our first recommendation.
The Cambridge CXU is much more than just a disc player - it is a fully functioning digital preamplifier with multiple inputs and outputs including wifi for streaming. The CXU is your best choice for many types of system. For the home Cinema enthusiast it offers an unmatched clarity of picture from all formats of disc and input - HDMI and USB. The CXU incorporates the latest release of DARBEE Visual Presence and 4k upsampling from all video inoputs - not just disc. This combined with brilliantly executed 7.1 surround sound delivers you and immersive movie experience. Read more here.
We have a great news to share with you. NuPrime has THREE winners in The Absolute Sound 2015 Product of the Year Awards list:
1. IDA-16: Integrated Amplifiers (Affordable) category
2. DAC-10H: DACs & DAC/PREs (Affordable) category
3. ST-10: Power Amplifier (Affordable) category
A clear vindication of the selection of NuPrime as our leading digital brand NuPrime has had a fantastic year and we've been thrilled to be assocated with them.
As if this isn't enough we've got more new models due to ship any day - the super affordable DAC-9, HPA-9 preamp and ST-9 power amp either in combination or as separates could be just the thing to brighten your festive season. Drop us a line to find out more.
New 'Wax Engine' turntable from Opera Consonance NZ$ 1,695
If analogue is an enthusiasts market, then the new Consonance 'Wax Engine' turntable is very much a product designed for the hands-on enthusiast. It's a turntable system that opens up choices and allows you to both easily fine tune and upgrade over time. Given the recent and substantial improvements we've seen in digital, any new analogue product has to be better, and also be an improvement on what has come before. The new Wax Engine happily fulfils this - it’s easily the best sounding turntable we’ve heard short of the Well Tempered models. The precision engineering that has gone into it is a credit to the Opera Consonance company. They have been uncompromising in their design choices and created a turntable that is not just great value, but will also last a lifetime and has the ability to be progressively and affordably upgraded.
New Pryma headphones by Sonus faber
Think Sonus faber and words such as perfection, detail, luxury comes to mind. Think of the sound Sonus faber speakers produce and musical, heavenly, embracing would be suitable descriptions. The new Pryma headphones divined by Sonus faber are all this and more. Thus if you were to wish for your most desirable headphones who but Sonus faber could rise to the occasion?
NZ$ 999
Choose from Pure Black, Coffee & Cream, Rose Gold or Heavy Gold
Limited Edition Carbon Marsala NZ$ 1,999
Order Online or by Email
New 'Spaced 360' Portable Bluetooth Speaker NZ$ 499 Xmas Special $399
Looking for a great sounding wireless speaker system to go anywhere? The new Orbitsound Spaced 360 is a wonderfully fresh approach to making music inside and outside. Designed in Britain, the Spaced 360 is a seriously cool piece of audio design - both in the way it looks and how it sounds.The Spaced 360 wirelessly connects quickly and easily to any bluetooth device. The sound is great - it's got more go than many other options but the real trick is the way it throws sound out - this is what makes it perfect for outdoor use where you can literally put it anywhere and everyone around it gets the same performance. No wires, no fuss. Spaced 360 comes in black or silver and there are optional coloured protective cases for NZ$ 49 in pink, green, blue yellow, orange, black and white.
Sonus Faber Chameleon collection
Hand made in Italy, there is nothing to match the Sonus faber loudspeakers for both quality of finish and sound. These are true luxury products with a reputation that is deserved in every way. The introduction of a new model is always an event. You open a Sonus faber box and the rich aroma of leather, lacquer and maybe even a hint of coffee fills the room. Ranging from just $1300 for the centre to $5000 for the pair of the awesome floorstanders, the new Chameleon collection draws on all of Sonus faber's experience to produce 3 models that are at once affordable and totally desirable.
Cool Power - the NuPrime ST10 stereo power amplifier
It’s the perfect time to look at a new power amplifier. If you already own a pre/power combination or are looking to upgrade from integrated we've got the perfect component for you. Anyone with an existing pre/power combination should consider the NuPrime ST–10. It really is one of the very best power amplifiers we’ve ever heard, regardless of price. There will be very few systems that won’t sound appreciably better with its inclusion, regardless of the size or original cost of the power amplifier it is replacing – you’ll gain power, control and a massive improvement in resolution.
The first NuPrime product – the IDA-16 remains our best sounding and most powerful integrated option. The new DAC-10 converter and analogue preamp extends the levels of resolution and fidelity. And now we have the matching new ST-10 Reference LE stereo power amplifier, NZ$ 2750. Read our full review of it here.
In Australia? We can ship NuPrime directly to you - it's easier than you think and only takes 3-10 working days from order. Enquire now.
Cable as a component - the new KLEI gZero20 analogue interconnect cables.
The flagship interconnect cable from KLEI - Keith Louis Eichmann Innovations - is a remarkable component in its own right. We say this because in over 25 years of playing and enjoying audio systems both at home and work we've heard very few things that work so well, that are unarguably better than anything we have experienced before.
The gZero20 analogue interconnect was introduced in January this year (2015).For one reason and another, we didn't leap in and get the gZero20s. If coming all the way from Brisbane to Dunedin, you might as well bring something with you and what better for KL to arrive with than a set of the gZero20s. What we heard during a quick listen in the shop was enough for us to say 'yes - we'll keep them' but we admit this was with some hesitation - these are the most costly cables we have purchased. There are considerably more expensive cables out there and we are sure they are just fantastic, but in our world every dollar has to be earned and there are a lot of people out there are finding it tough. Our ideal of audio-socialism where anyone can enjoy great sound with simple well thought out systems takes a bit of hammering once cables like this turn up. But there are some interesting twists to this story so do read about it here.
NuPrime IDA–8 amplifier
NuPrime may be the high end offshoot of NuForce but that isn't stopping them designing killer products at seriously affordable prices. The new IDA-8 Digital integrated amplifier is a case in point - the performance is nothing short of astonishing, not to mention a huge lot of fun with 100 watts to play with. Add in analogue and wireless connectivity, and you have a compact high performance amplifier that will work in many systems. This is easily the best amplifier we have ever heard for less (in fact quite a lot less) than NZ$2000. Read our take on this great new amplifier here.
NuPrime DAC–10
The NuPrime DAC-10 is a case in point. Not only is it a state of the art DAC with resolution levels we've only be able to dream about - it also features two analogue inputs and a seriously competent preamplifier with both RCA and balanced outputs. From the first moment we switched the DAC-10 on just a few weeks ago, it was immediately apparent that this is a fantastic sounding device, far better than any we have heard previously. But what is really exciting is the combination of value for money, flexibility and performance it offers. The DAC-10 dramatically improves the performance of all digital sources - disc based, on computer or wireless - and this alone makes it compelling. Add to this the fact that it is a brilliant analogue preamplifier that you can play components such as your turntable system though and you'll start to see the possibilities for both upgrading and simplifying your system. Learn more here.
NuForce Earphones
In the competitive world of earphones, NuForce have built an enviable reputation garnering positive reviews from discerning listeners across the planet. They have produced several generations that we’ve lusted after. So we jumped at the chance the moment we could get them. From the first listen it was obvious that they are everything the reputation suggested. The NuForce sound quality is clearly evident – they will transform your personal listening.
NuPrime uDSD dac & headphone amp
At the other end of the NuPrime range the little NZ$350 uDSD Dac and headphone amp is a minor miracle. Superficially derived from the NuForce uDAc, this diminuative component is just as well built as the DAC-10 and delivers a level of performance far higher than the price point suggests. Supporting the latest high-resolution music formats,the NuPrime uDSD, is capable of decoding sample rates ranging from 44.1kHz to an astonishing 384kHz (PCM) as well as native DSD decoding ranging from DSD 64 up to DSD 256. It's a USB DAC, it's a headphone amplifier and can connect to both conventional amplifiers, active powered speakers and even power amplifiers. It's DSD capable, has class leading resolution and can even convert from USB to coaxial digital. Connect it with good quality cables, plug in your best headphones and prepare to be impressed. An absolute essential for anyone with an expanding high resolution library on their laptop.
More about DSD. Direct Stream Digital is one of the two main formats for high resolution digital audio. Nuprime are making a point of being compatible with, and making the most of both DSD and PCM. The best site to find start with DSD downloads is nativedsd.com - last time we looked they they were offering 531 albums with 7,322 tracks from 29 labels in Direct Stream Digital. Also worth investigating is the Acoustic Sounds DSD selection.
Our Oppo BlueRay players are also DSD compatible - there is a very good write up by David Elias on both DSD as a format and its advantages as well as how to make the most of DSD with the Oppos here.
New - The Tivoli Model 3 BT NZ$599
A design classic, the Tivoli Model 3 clock radio is the best way to wake up. And now it's even better with the addition of BlueTooth so you can now wirelessly stream music into it from any smartphone, iPad or BT capable iPod. Over it's long lifespan, the Model 3 has been continuously improved so now sounds even clearer and picks up more stations. Shamelessly imitated, the genuine Model 3 has a far better finish, is more solid and sounds superior to any other clock radio.
And now with Bluetooth you can access music and programming from all around the world. But far from abandoning well-established (and highly successful) tradition, the Model Three BT still includes an auxiliary input for devices without Bluetooth technology, its intuitive Alarm and Sleep functions, and analog interface for the clock and AM/AM radio—combining a sleek, retro look with modern high performance
Here is a recent review of the Model 3 BT from the UK - "Over the next few days I spent a fair amount of time listening to various radio channels at different times of day, and was constantly impressed with the reception capabilities, as well as the overall sound quality."
KLEI Digital and Speaker cables.
The new KLEI analogue interconnects from Keith Louis Eichmann are proving to be our most popular cables by a wide margin. Both the new Harmony RCA plugs and unique construction of the cable do wonderful things for analogue, And now with purpose designed digital interconnect cables, the plugs and construction are proving to be just effective in this domain - convincingly better than any cable we've perviously heard and by no means costly.
There are two models - the gZero2D and gZero3D at NZ$300 and $390 respectively for 1 metre lengths. The entry level cable has the standard copper Harmony plugs whereas the better '3D' model has the very special Silver Harmony plugs. While you might think this will be a small improvement it turns out that in the world of digital this is well worthwhile, especially if you are matching to a high resolution DAC such as the NuPrime. Both are now in stock.
While concentrating on the interconnects we have also sampled the new speaker cables from KLEI. The construction of these is very much along the same lines of the interconnects and share the 'less is more' ethos of the NZ made SlinkyLinks with which they are directly price comparable. What we have found is that they are better again than our favorites - a combination of the proven Eichmann cable architecture with different positive and negative conductors as well as careful consideration of grounding take the performance beyond that of the minimalist silver cables delivering more detail, better bass and and even more silent background.
Starting at NZ$600 for a 2m pair, these are obviously serious speaker cables. They may not have the physical presence of some brands in terms of thickness or wacking great plugs but the sound they produce is every bit as compelling as that of the interconnects. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to get more from their system.
The first cable we ever got from Keith Eichmann was his great AC mains cable. This was very popular especially in the MK2 version and proved to be brilliant with not just imported but also NZ made amplifiers and components. We're very much looking forward to his new AC mains power cable which is close to production. This is one of the few cables that has been developed with 240AC rather than 120V and we'd suggest this is a major part of why it seems to work so well for us. More on this soon...
The new 'TLC’ Moving magnet phono cartridge from Well Tempered Labs NZ$ 810
Every Well Tempered product we’ve heard has performed better than anything else we have heard at the price which translates to the fact that whatever level they are working, WT Labs deliver value. The TLC is certainly the best moving magnet cartridge we’ve had the pleasure of listening to. So it’s impressive pedigree was proved and being moving magnet makes it highly compatible. Read more and find out why you should be listening to this new cartridge.
Geneva Lab 'AeroSphere' Wireless Sound System
The new AeroSphere sound system from Geneva Lab is an ultra stylish, high performing wireless music system that is highly flexible and modular in design. Multi–room and Multi–source AeroSphere combines the best in audio technology and design AeroSphere both sounds and looks incredible.
Previous Newsletters
Nov 2016 'Tivoli Christmas Specials' Tivoli owners regularly tell us that their Tivoli radio is the most loved asset in their household. There's the perennial favourite - the Model One, or make the most of the models with our special Christmas prices.
Nov 2016 'Sonus faber' Our favourite Sonus faber and Venere special.
Sep 2016 'A New Look for Spring' In the same month that Apple go completely wireless with the new iPhone, the best cables we've ever heard have arrived. But first, let's get all carried away with an unusual and exceptional amplifier from NuPrime...and get catch up on analogue news.
5 May 2016 'Pure Audio' There is something special about NZ made and it's highly likely that you own, or have owned one or more components that have been designed or built in New Zealand. The arrival of the Duo has prompted us to re-evaluate all of the Pure Audio products - since introduction the eco-system around the models has improved dramatically.
5 May 2016 'Pure Audio' There is something special about NZ made and it's highly likely that you own, or have owned one or more components that have been designed or built in New Zealand. The arrival of the Duo has prompted us to re-evaluate all of the Pure Audio products - since introduction the eco-system around the models has improved dramatically.
9 March 2016 'Cool new components for you from NuPrime and Cambridge' This month we focus on two great new ranges from either side of the Atlantic. Firstly the innovative American designers NuPrime release a series of compact and affordable separates. From the English side of the pond, Cambridge up the ante and move from being a budget brand to something rather more serious.
Each brand brings a distinctive twist to modern electronics design, setting new standards of both performance and value - within these choices there is sure to be something just right for you...
17 December 2015 'Indulge Yourself' Our last e zine for the year – a last minute gift or something cool for summer. What better to indulge in but a really good pair of headphones - we managed to get a couple of extra pairs of the new Sonus faber Pryma headphones just in time for Christmas.
11 December 2015 'Award Yourself' The new Cambridge Audio CXU has just come in and it's the very best multi purpose disc player yet.
3 December 2015 'The Best of Analogue and Digital'Given the recent and substantial improvements in digital, any new analogue product has to be better, and also be an improvement on what has come before. The new Wax Engine happily fulfils this. The whole idea of analogue is to enjoy better sound - it has its own reward as you are the one that is in control of how good sound you can get. Every improvement you make in an analogue system takes you that much closer to the music and there is no limit to how far you can go. Explore all of our Analogue options. Plus we have a great news to share with you. NuPrime has THREE winners in The Absolute Sound 2015 Product of the Year Awards.
6 November 2015 'Looking for the perfect wireless speaker?' It's the best time to be getting into a wireless speaker system for yourself, your family or as a gift. We've navigated through all the options to bring you the best selection this summer. Indoors or out, portable and powerful, simple bluetooth connection or no compromise wifi, it's all covered. Read about the new 'Spaced 360' speaker from 'Orbit' and more.
October 2015 'Cool Power' The arrival of the NuPrime ST-10 Reference LE power amplifier has opened our ears to a whole new level of transparency and performance. The new Chameleon collection speakers draws on all of Sonus faber's experience to produce 3 models that are at once affordable and totally desirable. Keith Eichmann recently journeyed across the Tasman to visit and introduce us to his new flagship interconnect cable - the gZero20 IC. And some live music in Dunedin.
July 2015 'Embrace the New!' The performance of the new NuPrime IDA–8 high resolution integrated digital amplifier is nothing short of astonishing. Monitor Audio again sets the bar higher for home audio with an affordable new 'Bronze' range. The higher level earphones from NuForce achieve a sound quality that will thrill astute listeners. Our exhibiting artist James Bellaney has produced an engaging new body of work for his exhibition ‘Riders of the Storm’.
June 2015 'The Best Of All Worlds' Digital or analogue, wireless or directly connected, we’ve got some brilliant new products that are going to make your music sound much better. You’ll find these new components work in surprising ways. New DACs from Nuprime, the Tivoli Model Three goes Bluetooth, new digital cables from KLEI, the new Debut Carbon Esprit turntablefrom Project and the launch of our online shop.
Apr 2015 'Winter Essentials' Winter just walked in the door in Dunedin with an early snowfall after a fantastic summer in which we’ve enjoyed great tramps, paddling, fishing and diving. Now it’s time to get back into the swing of things at Totally Wired starting up with a super special on an amp and speakers based around the NuForce DDA100. There’s a lovely new cartridge from Well Tempered, cables from KLEI; and cool little new speakers from Monitor Audio plus great ways of combining digital and analogue music.
Dec 2014 ’Christmas on a High Note’ NuPrime’s IDA–16 integrated digital amplifier is one of the very best amplifiers of any breed; Geneva’s new marvellous new AeroSphere and Cinema sound systems; KLEI new speaker cable; introducing our artist in residence, James Bellaney; plus christmas specials.
Oct 2014 'Transforming Your Music' revolutionary new cables from Keith Louis Eichmann, update on digital music listening – Meridian and HRT, and tune up your Tivoli.
Aug 2014 'Everything You Need' The new Quad Vena integrated amplifier is both completely modern and affordable, yet pure Quad. It’s the highlight of our year. Read our introduction to Oppo Bluray players and you’ll find that they may well work for you in unexpected ways. We’ve now got the whole range of NuForce AV components which are just as good as, if not better than many specialist stereo components. Plus read why we’ve decided on the QED range of digital cables.
June 2014 'Special Speakers and Speaker Spcials' It’s no secret that we love the Italian Sonus faber speakers and the new Olympica range is pure Sonus faber. NuForce are a seriously cool digital company so who better to shake up the home cinema market. Wired and WiFi –new Cambridge Audio speakers.
March 2014 'Cool New Audio For You from Totally Wired.' Can a single loudspeaker range appeal to everyone – the new Silver Series form Monitor Audio hits the magical combination. See a whole new world of wireless, have an analogue feast and NAD re–invents the amplifier.
December 2013 'Things of Beauty.' …are a joy forever. Good design makes life better. Let’s celebrate some unique and special components this festive season. Project 2Xperience turntable Superpack, Geneva wireless speaker systems, Cute & Cuddly – get your polar bear with NuForce Home 100.
November 2013 'Small Stuff is Cool Stuff.' There are plenty of reasons to go small like the Tivoli iPal portable radio, the new Meridian 'Director' DAC, the NuForce 'Mobile Music Pump', the improved 'Radius' speakers from Monitor Audio and the beautiful new 'Olympicas' from Sonus faber.
August 2013 'Clever Choices for Smart People.' Introducing the phenomenal NuForce Home range plus up–dates on Well Tempered turntables and Sonus faber speakers.
March 2013 'Making Wireless Work For You.'Learn about how we make wireless work for you, the latest in the line of legendary Current Dumping amplifiers from Quad, the new Elite QSP. Geneva’s 'World Radio.
February 2013 'Cool New Audio for You in 2013' Introducing the new Sonus faber 'Venere' range of exquisite loudspeakers; the Rotel '12 series' with new high tech digital features; Cambridge’s highly capable 751BD Bluray player that extends beyond their earlier models; the RIAA Phono stage by Well Tempered raises the bar for well priced separate phono amps; with the new 'Carbon', Pro-Ject yet again produces a turntable that offers stunning value for money.
June 2012 'Which Well Tempered turntable is right for you? The Sonos Sub is here, plus the Cambridge 651BD Blueray player.
May 2012 'The Numbers Game' The quantification of audio is difficult to avoid - it’s so very easy to pin a number on something as a measure of its worth - be it size. power or price. Allow us to show you the way through to simplicity and quality. NuForce Dia, Pure Audio, Audio Analogue, Wadia 121, Meridian Media Core 200.
Aug 2011 'Ways to Stay Warm' A fresh look at Monitor Audio speakers, why is the Cambridge 751BD the last disc player you’ll ever need to buy? Sonos Play3 speaker and analogue news.
May 2011 'Make Your Apple Swing'' Are you an Apple enthusiast? If you answered 'yes' then you'll love the range of cool new products we've got that build on the strengths of Apples ever expanding universe of options.
March 2011 'Open Ears and Open Minds' Introducing PrimaLuna tube amplifiers; reminding you of the Tivoli "Pal" radio – your best friend when you need it; the ultimate iPod –and iPad – dock from Cambridge and news on an exciting new New Zealand amplifier brand,'Pure Audio'.
February 2011 'Meet the Future' A fresh new approach to audio with the Icon range of small electronics from NuForce. Plus Headphone Heaven.
Nov 2010 'Great Ideas for Christmas' and Introducing Geneva.
October 2010 Tivoli Connector & Model 10, Audio Analogue Verdi & Rossini tube hybrid amp and CD player, Firestone Audio, Quad Active and Image Revelation MK2 speakers, Spin Clean record cleaner, Sonos iPad controller software, Rotel RCX 1500 System.
August 2010 Well Tempered Simplex, New Tivoli options, Monitor Audio RX Silver loudspeaker range, Rotel RA06 Special Edition components, HRT Mk2 Music streamers, Perreaux - strange but true.
June 2010 Sonos. In built speaker options from Speakercraft & Monitor Audio.
May 2010 Image Petit Performa II, SlinkyLinks MK2
March 2010 Cambridge Audio BD650 Blu Ray & 650 AVR, Meridian 808.2, Sonus Faber Elipsa, Sonos, HRT, Analogue Update, Perreaux SX25i
The Terrace Houses
217 Stuart Street
Dunedin 9016
New Zealand
NZ Toll Free
Phone
Cell Phone
Mail
0800 909 101
(+64) 03 4790 444
(+64) 021 963 321
info@totallywired.co.nz
Direct Contact
John Ransley and Carolijn Guytonbeck are the principals behind Totally Wired. It’s our own business and we take pride in building something worthwhile.
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