REVIEWS

TECHNICAL BRAIN

At a time when consumers are increasingly accepting the truncated frequencies of the mp3 as the sonic norm, and discarding stereo systems altogether in favor of music files stored on their computers, a true high-precision audio experience would seem to be the province of a few remaining true believers. But regardless of whatever direction the mass market moves in, those true believers seek audio products that vindicate their continued belief. Products that scientifically refute the notion that computer files could ever replace true wide-spectrum audio. Products like Japan’s brilliant Technical Brain series.

The brainchild of audio/electronic mastermind Naoto Kurosawa, Technical Brain amplifiers produce an audio experience that almost borders on the visual. Born of Mr. Kurosawa’s decades of experience servicing audio equipment both domestic and foreign, his TechBrain systems have astonished critics and audio experts in Japan and elsewhere. Having decided to develop his own amplifier line, Mr. Kurosawa didn’t rush into it, continually refining his concepts and methods according to his exacting standards over the course of several decades. He took extensive note of what existing amps and pre-amps had gotten right and wrong and patiently developed a high-end design, a standard of sonic perfection which is literally made to order, since only a limited number of his systems are manufactured each year. Working from his combination audio workshop (an actual log cabin just outside Tokyo), he and his assistants are in a continuous process of research and refinement, working in accordance with their own impossibly high standards.

Purchasers of not only high-end audio equipment, but household appliances of all descriptions, will be aware of the twin evils of heat buildup and electric-current irregularities as the causes of equipment malfunction. Mr. Kurosawa has devised a transistor-based amplification system that bypasses these dangers while delivering a sonic range and warmth previously thought to be the sole province of tube amplifiers coupled with the level of detail only attainable by transistors.

-- Audiophile Magazine