Positive Feedback published a highly positive, extensive, in-depth review of the Aspen FR10 loudspeaker, and interviewed designer Chris Brunhaver. Reviewer Juan C. Ayllon said: “Voices were rich and natural, acoustic guitars well-articulated through their leading edges, transients, and decay, drum kits punchy and well-delineated, and the bass guitar deep and impressive.” He also stated, “…the FR10s are very musical, disappear, and sound astoundingly large for their size! No doubt, the rear-firing passive radiating bass drivers add immensely to their soundstage's breadth, depth, and sense of oomph! They certainly do an admirable job of delivering the goods to our listening area (a loveseat, couch, and overstuffed chair) in the front half of our 32' x 22' family room.”
Ayllon concluded, “The PS Audio Aspen FR10 loudspeaker is a great-looking and serious audiophile speaker, capable of delivering wonderfully immersive aural experiences. Whether you're into vinyl, streaming, digital file playback, or enjoying an HD show or movie over your HiFi system, the FR10s render it wondrously. They are very interior design friendly; unimposing in size, their sleek, contemporary lines fit nicely in homes with discerning tastes. Bottom line, if you have a budget for $10,000 speakers, the FR10s may be just for you!”
Future Audiophile reviewed the StellarGold DAC. The publication noted, “At the midpoint of [“The Court” by Peter Gabriel], there’s an acoustic piano and, despite hearing this track on upwards of five different DACs, the PS Audio StellarGold DAC delivered one of the most musical, open and airy presentations of that piano recording. There was really good imaging, but even more impressive was the overall depth of the soundstage with the PS Audio StellarGold DAC in the loop. Make no mistake, this is a high-end DAC, and delivers the goods for the money.”
The review concludes by saying, “It has been a lot of fun to spend time with the PS Audio StellarGold DAC, as it has provided a few really eye- (and ear-) opening moments that allowed me a chance to really hear what is on the master tape of some of my favorite music. If this is what you are looking for from your next audiophile upgrade, might I suggest that you order up a PS Audio StellarGold DAC?”
PS Audio StellarGold DAC.
Hi-Fi News gave the Aspen FR10 speaker a Hi-fi News Outstanding Product Award. The review states, “…they created a soundstage that was wide and deep, but also well ordered. Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson's version of ‘Ghost Riders In The Sky’…gave the two singers a vast ambience to work in. Every breath, string pluck and strike or tap of percussion was clean and focused, while the audience applause was truly vivid. It became clear to me very quickly that the FR10s are a compelling companion if you want to have your music presented in a way that properly fills your room.”
The review went on to note, “The FR10s dig impressively deep and are more than happy to thunder out a window-rattling performance if required, as evidenced by the solidity and scale they bought to Propellerheads’ 'Take California'... That said, they really come into their own when things are softer and more considered. Hi-Fi News wrapped up the review by saying, “The new FR10 slots comfortably into the range alongside its bigger brothers, promising a big-hearted, ebullient and hugely enjoyable performance…once suitably positioned, they reward handsomely, offering a scale and level of authority that belies their compact dimensions.”
Header image: PS Audio Aspen FR10 loudspeakers.
