At the recent High End Show 2024 in Munich, Metronome unveiled two upgraded components from the AQWO series: the t|AQWO SACD/CD transport and the latest c|AQWO external DAC.
The primary purpose of the Metronome t|AQWO 2 transport remains the same, which is to play optical audio discs in SACD and CD formats. Additionally, the manufacturer now offers an optional network streaming module for this new product. The Metronome t|AQWO 2 transport features a proprietary optical drive with a top-loading disk, a precision mechanism, and a three-bearing internal vibration decoupling system – all of which were developed from scratch by Metronome engineers.
Metronome t|AQWO 2 is also equipped with a remote power supply, Metronome Elektra, which is equipped with three toroidal transformers so that each part of the transport circuitry has independent power. The new product offers a more modern and advanced interface, which is implemented through a large touch display measuring 7 inches diagonally. The display has its own power supply so as not to affect the rest of the circuit in any way. Due to its large size, it allows you to perceive information even from a distance – this is another plus.
The front panel of the Metronome t|AQWO 2 transport is machined from a 20 mm thick aluminum plate, and the disc loading tray is made almost invisible to maintain the classic appearance of the component.
The Metronome external DAC with|AQWO 2 now uses two separate DAC chips. One of them is AKM 4499EX from Asahi Kasei, the second is ESS 9039 from ESS Technology. The solution is truly the ultimate when right on the fly, with the press of one button you can get two different sound characters. And if you add to this the optional output stage based on Philips NOS JAN 6922 lamps, operating in class A, then you will have four types of sound at your disposal. Otherwise, this is still only a DAC, without additional functionality, which comes complete with a Metronome Electra power supply, equipped with four toroidal transformers, which are responsible for the operation of individual circuit blocks. It also uses a 7-inch touch display, and the front panel is machined from 20 mm thick aluminum.
The circuitry of both devices uses only high-quality components that have been subject to strict selection. All components are handcrafted right down to the soldering and assembly process by Metronome specialists in their own workshop in France. The new items are offered in two color options – black and silver. The Metronome t|AQWO SACD/CD transport and the second generation c|AQWO external DAC should be available for sale in September.
