Roksan Audio System Xerxes / Artemiz / Artaxerxes

Roksan Audio Ltd.; Essex

Daten
Forum
Bilder
Sammlungen

  • Jahr
  • 1991 ?
  • Kategorie
  • Ton-/Bildspeichergerät oder -Spieler
  • Radiomuseum.org ID
  • 357971

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 Technische Daten

  • Anzahl Transistoren
  • Halbleiter vorhanden.
  • Halbleiter
  • Hauptprinzip
  • NF-Verstärkung
  • Wellenbereiche
  • - ohne
  • Betriebsart / Volt
  • Externes Speisegerät / Netzgerät / Hauptgerät
  • Lautsprecher
  • - Für Kopfhörer oder NF-Verstärker
  • Material
  • Gerät mit Holzgehäuse
  • von Radiomuseum.org
  • Modell: Roksan Audio System Xerxes / Artemiz / Artaxerxes - Roksan Audio Ltd.; Essex
  • Form
  • Tischgerät, Truhenform, meist mit Deckel (NICHT Schrägpult).
  • Bemerkung

  • The Roksan audio system, comprising the Xerxes turntable, Artemiz tonearm, and Artaxerxes phono amplifier, is a notable entry in the high-end record-playing market. This system is designed to offer a complete record-playing solution with integrated components that aim to enhance performance while minimizing interference.

    Summary of a Review from Hi-Fi Choice, February 1991

    System Components

    1. Xerxes Turntable: While detailed coverage of the Xerxes will be provided separately, it is essential to note its innovative construction. The turntable features a unique plinth and sub-chassis design that utilizes Medite boards and industrial anti-vibration mounts instead of traditional springs. This design choice aims to isolate vibrations effectively, providing a stable platform for sound reproduction. The two-part aluminum platter is engineered for precision, with diamond-turned surfaces that ensure smooth operation and minimal noise.
    2. Artemiz Tone Arm: The Artemiz tone arm distinguishes itself with its unconventional design. It features a thin-walled aluminum tube that integrates the headshell, which contributes to its lightweight structure. Notably, the arm employs fixed-ball bearings rather than rotating races, which Roksan claims reduces bearing noise significantly. The counterweight is suspended from the arm rather than being fixed, allowing it to swing freely. While this design aims to provide some decoupling effects, it may introduce variability in tracking force due to record warps.
    3. Artaxerxes Phono Amplifier: The Artaxerxes phono amplifier represents a significant innovation by being integrated directly into the Xerxes turntable. This compact RIAA phono stage is housed in a sleek aluminum case and connects directly to the tonearm via short leads. This design minimizes potential hum and interference by reducing the number of connectors in the signal path. The amplifier outputs line-level signals compatible with various preamplifiers, enhancing the overall efficiency of the system.

    Performance Insights

    Initial impressions of the Roksan system reveal a certain degree of resonance when engaging with records, leading to noticeable surface noise. However, the music reproduction is characterized by an open and detailed soundstage. Despite this clarity, some limitations become apparent during extended listening sessions. The system tends to exhibit over-brightness, which can overshadow low-level details such as hall ambiance and create a two-dimensional representation of performers. Bass response is described as somewhat lacking in definition and strength, with feedback-induced drone potentially masking true bass information. Testing reveals pronounced resonances at 30Hz, likely due to the unique construction of the turntable, while the tone arm contributes additional resonances that can color sound reproduction.
    The Artaxerxes phono amplifier performs adequately but shows sensitivity to loading conditions; deviations from the recommended loading can thin out bass response. Although it maintains neutrality and extension, its noise performance does not meet expectations when compared to specifications.

    Conclusion
    Overall, while the Roksan Xerxes/Artemiz/Artaxerxes combination presents an attractive package with several innovative features, potential buyers should approach it with caution. The system's character may appeal to some listeners; however, its long-term listening experience can be strident and tiring due to inherent resonances and tonal imbalances. Careful auditioning is highly recommended before making a purchase decision.

  • Literaturnachweis
  • -- Original prospect or advert (Hi-Fi Choice Feb 1991, Page 84)
  • Autor
  • Modellseite von Gary Cowans angelegt. Siehe bei "Änderungsvorschlag" für weitere Mitarbeit.

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