"Benjamin and I had been talking about Octave for at least three or four years. I had never actually listened to an Octave amplifier, but I always thought the retro design was beautiful. I’m a minimalist, and I love things that are modern and understated. After seeing the black Octave amplifiers more often at Hanson, I fell in love with the design."
When we asked Thomas if he was specifically looking for a new preamp or power amp, he replied: "I was looking for a ‘new sound.’ I had grown tired of the analytical sound of my audio system. Benjamin told me it was time to listen to the ‘next level’ in hi-fi. And so my search for a new preamp and power amp began."
Thomas continued:
"One day, I visited Hanson Audio again, a store I’ve been happily going to for the past seven years and where I bought my current audio system. Benjamin knows a lot about hi-fi and high-end systems. As I walked in, I heard incredibly beautiful sound coming from a listening room. It grabbed me immediately, even from several meters away. When I stepped into the room, I saw the Sonus Faber Stradivari speakers—the same ones I own at home. But I had never heard my speakers sound like this before! The Octave HP 700 SE preamp and the MRE 220 SE power amps, combined with the Super Black Boxes, brought out the best in them. The source was a dCS Bartok Ring DAC/streamer. I was sold! This was the sound I was looking for. The sound was phenomenal, and combined with the retro look of the Octave amplifiers, it was the perfect mix of design and performance. I had to have it!"
When we asked Thomas what ultimately convinced him to buy the Octave preamp and power amps, he replied with a laugh: "Let’s just say it wasn’t the price. It’s like this: my former audio system feels like it’s standing on the corner of a busy street in a big city, but what I heard at Hanson, Octave took me to a place where I can hear only nature, deep in the forest."
Finally, the big day arrived. The installation. Thomas shares his experience: "When Hanson brought the Octave boxes into my house, everything was packed so well I thought I was receiving Fabergé eggs! Setup was a breeze because Hanson set up the equipment. I had custom-designed my stereo unit, and after arranging the equipment, I realized it is a combination of Art Deco and Minimalism. I will not use all the overworked audiophile clichés to describe the sound. My room came alive as if I were at a live concert for one. I can't recall how late I listened to music that first night. With each passing day and hour, the sound improves. To say I am carried away to a different place and time is an understatement. Your equipment is the perfect sweet spot of value and benefit—a miracle for the human ear!"
At Octave, we deeply appreciate the dedication and expertise of Hanson AV. As an Octave dealer, they have gone above and beyond to provide Thomas with an unforgettable experience. From the very first listening session to the seamless installation of his new system, Hanson AV ensured that every detail was perfect. Their passion for high-end audio and commitment to customer satisfaction is truly commendable.
On behalf of the entire Octave team, we wish Thomas many years of enjoyment with his new system.
Thomas, thank you for sharing your first Octave experience with us!
