Rybo
Minor Hero
Posts: 62 
|
Post by Rybo on Sept 3, 2021 16:53:57 GMT -5
...for the TA1. Ever enjoy something enough you decided to buy the latest version? With the increase in prices and the now-included Bluetooth module that I didn't purchase with the TA-100, it's a bit more of an expensive proposition than last year. But with the improvements and added functionality, I think it's worth it. Emotiva didn't just update one thing and jack the price, but they added more value overall. It's pretty obvious they considered customer feedback for this iteration as well. I also like the updated design with the moderated blue glow. It's more understated now, whereas before it was kinda garish (IMO). They put some thought into improving an already excellent product.
|
|
Rybo
Minor Hero
Posts: 62
|
Post by Rybo on Sept 13, 2021 17:49:12 GMT -5
Here are a few out-of-the-box impressions of the TA1 vs the TA-100 that you may not have seen previously. As expected, the toned-down blue-lights from the TA1 is much better. On the TA-100, I couldn't see the display very well from my sitting position. On full-bright, the volume and on/off lights overwhelmed the display to my eyes. If I decreased brightness to reduce the glare, the alpha-numeric display was too dim. Now I can leave it on full-bright and it's just right -- easy to read and no glare. It also looks more upscale IMO. The gnurled volume knob with detents has a more premium feel to it. Not that this is good or bad, but the outer shell casing of the unit seems more "powdered" than the one on the TA-100. The unit is noticeably more responsive to the remote from my sitting position/distance. With the TA-100, I frequently had to reach a little and reclick for the unit to respond to the remote, whereas with the TA1, the unit responds immediately even when I hold the remote vertically. The new remote is also not glossy plastic, so no obsessive polishing required.  The longer design feels better in the hand. However, one con -- the red LED that lights while making selections is blinding. Don't stare at it while clicking. I haven't had a chance to try the added Bluetooth just yet. Listening to Tidal has the same clean/smooth sound and excellent soundstage as the TA-100 paired with T-Zero's. I frankly don't hear any background noise during gaps, nor a "bright/clinical" emphasis. Maybe some other genres or source material might produce those qualities -- and I'm sure the T-Zero's would accurately reflect that in those instances.
EDIT: I just noticed that the unit seems to boot/power up a little quicker, but I can't compare to be sure.
EDIT2: Yeah, plus I think the volume adjustment speed is quicker.
Haven't removed the display plastic yet:
|
|
The longer design feels better in the hand. However, one con -- the red LED that lights while making selections is blinding. Don't stare at it while clicking. 
