What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
13 SEP 2003
Roksan Caspian M series-1 amp
Offers a broad soundstage and is speedy, substantial and overall, a very accomplished and dynamic performer
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The many and various changes that have taken place to produce this latest Caspian M series-1 are not signalled by the casework at all.
Under that oh-so familiar bonnet, this new Caspian benefits from a split power supply module based on the Caspian Mono amp, and an increase in power to 85 watts per channel into 8 ohms.
There are other upgrades too, but unless you check the serial number on the unit (you're looking for 0115000 upwards) this could be a Caspian M series-1 from many moons ago.
Despite its 20th-century looks and spec (there's no MP3-friendly 3.5mm input), the new Roksan is a fairly complete performer.
A run through Vibracathedral Orchestra's The Least Painful Earrings illustrates the Roksan's strengths: good, solid low frequencies with minimal overhang, a big, broad soundstage and zealous stereo focus.
The sound is speedy and substantial, with sweet integration throughout the frequency range.
Swift but still strong
There's a good deal of dynamism on tap, too, and it's here that the Roksan really illustrates its winning formula.
The Roksan manages to shift from very quiet to very loud in a heartbeat, displaying fleetness of foot but without the corresponding lack of body.
It's interesting to note, though, that the Roksan requires bigger volumes to be dialled in than some other amps, despite having (on paper) plenty of power, if it's to be heard at a comparable volume level.
Listening to The Ting Tings' That's Not My Name, the Caspian impresses
all over again with the accuracy of its timing and its casual authority over tricky rhythms and tempos.
It's an effortlessly toe-tapping and harmonious amplifier, happy to sacrifice the last ounce of detail in a vocal if it means motoring along in such a natural and unforced manner.
Some may hanker after a spot more resolution, but few will find fault with the Roksan's even-handed music-making.
So if you don't mind your brand new amplifier looking identical to a product from 2004, this latest Caspian M series-1 has an awful lot to recommend it.
Just be sure to check the serial number when you hunt one down to audition.