Can you imagine an audio system that cost in the region of $500K? Yes, that’s not a typo. High-end audiophile equipment can seriously put a huge hole in your pocket. Or, at these prices, probably a lot more than your pocket will get completely obliterated. This year’s MOD DAC event is already over, but you can look out for next year’s. If you think these audiophile equipment are just unthinkably pricey, well, at least you can experience it for free at this event.
There’s a joke that listening to such high-end stuffs will damage your ears. Yes, actually, sort of. You see, once you hear such good music, your ears will tell you anything else is just seriously broken. Folks who have stretchable finances to, maybe, just barely afford such nirvana are in grave danger.
Others who simply can’t afford are safe. They can’t buy, but they will go away experiencing and knowing what these high-end audiophile equipment sound like. They can be, and are, totally awesome. Imagine virtual reality. Except that there’s no visual here, just the audio part.
If you close your eyes, you can actually hear the performance happening in front of you. You can even feel the instruments, and pinpoint where they are. It’s just like virtual reality.
It’s not just the big systems that are pricey. Small parts, like earphones and headphones, can be quite expensive too. One headphone featured at MOD DAC by Jaben was a Final Audio Design flagship. It’s a Japanese company. Yes, you’ve probably not heard of it. It costs over S$10K.
Last year, I reviewed from AKG earphones and headphones. Remember the AKG K3003 that sells for S$1599?
Yeah, right, awfully expensive when you can pick up $2 earbuds from Daiso. Or, under $50 for branded earphones from regular retail stores.
This year, MOD DAC also featured high-end consumer projectors. One of the highlights is the new Sony 4K home theatre projector, carrying a price tag of about US$26K. This projector has a resolution of 4096 x 2160. Yes, if you recently got a 1080p television, this one is 2160p. (Now, where do you find 4K resolution source material for playback?)
Jaben had the absolutely busiest room, and probably stayed the busiest throughout the entire event. They were also the Can Jam (headphone) place to go. Hourly lucky draws probably helped to keep the scene busy.
It’s free entry, and if you want a stress-free, no-pressure opportunity to experience high-end audiophile equipment, keep an eye out for next year’s MOD DAC!