Cast of Characters -   Martin G. DeWulf, Publisher    Laura M. DeWulf, Circulation   Contributors:    Bob O'Neill    Richard Rodgers    LJ Linton    Richard Weiner    John Sunier

I'm sorry, I've sat on this information way too long, and if Monarchy International is a little ticked off at me, they have reason to be. It's not Monarchy that I'm worried about though, they can take it. Those that I fear have been done wrong by my delinquency are the BFS readers.

Over the last year I have been covering the best ODAP's money can buy - the expensive stuff. And we have uncovered some superb digital electronics; the Polyfusion and Altis equipment for example. But with the current paucity of affordable digital gear, the market is searching for something high end that doesn't require a second mortgage to purchase. I highly recommend the Monarchy 22B ($980) as an affordable alternative to equipment selling for $2,000+. Now, to a certain extent this recommendation is qualified. That's because, while the standard 22B (22C soon) is a good machine, it only becomes a giant killer when used with one of Monarchy's DIP jitter reduction units or a Camelot Dragon. For reasons not understood by myself, or by two other digital techno-geek advisors, something spectacular, and truly special happens when the 22B is employed with a DIP or Dragon. Especially with the Dragon, the 22B becomes a blue collar super star, performing at much the same level as the Classe' DAC-1, Dodson 217, and Theta DS Pro (in some respects better). If you've ever wanted front row maximum dynamic range, and a clear window to the back of the stage, all at a back row balcony price - the Monarchy with DIP is the perfect machine.

Yeah, I can fault it in some regards. But its failings are minor and of the kind that simply don't bring attention to themselves. This is the truth: If at this minute I was told that I couldn't use any of the super star machines reviewed in these pages during the last year, and that at my disposal would only be the 22B with a Camelot Dragon, I'd say "Fine by me." That's because even if it lacks the ultimate in rounded dimensionality and image density, it easily makes up for the same with over-the-top dynamics, a robust musical foundation in the lower mids, and pristine clarity. I can live with that!

Monarchy informs me that Jennifer Crock has an inexpensive modification involving a Pi filter (is that another name for a zoeble?). My unit is going back for the mod to see what it does, and I will report on the same when the moment is right. In the meantime, should you be looking for a killer digital front end, and see a 22B next to a Dragon in Audiomart...

 8/97, $3.00 ea.