Feedback from the 2026 Florida International Audio Show

[Triode Pete]

Some superb feedback from Scot Hull of Part Time Audiophile fame... https://pt.audio/2026/02/28/borderpatrol-zola-triode-wire-labs-florida-2026/

BorderPatrol Zola, Triode Wire Labs | Florida 2026
February 28, 2026
By Scot Hull

Late last year, BorderPatrol unveiled the Zola DAC, a significant upgrade featuring hi-res capabilities up to 24bit/192k. The compact unit impresses with its sound quality and tube output stage. Additionally, the Living Voice R80 loudspeakers garnered admiration for their elegant sound. Meanwhile, Triode Wire Labs and others collaborated to create an extraordinary listening experience, emphasizing the importance of quality in every element of the setup.

The new BorderPatrol Zola DAC
Back at Capital Audiofest, Gary Dews of BorderPatrol showed us the brand new BorderPatrol Zola DAC, the first major update to his electronics line up since the old "audio fur" DAC that Stereophile went so cuckoo-for-cocoa-puffs over a few years back. We here at pt.AUDIO agreed with our vastly more august peers, and were delighted that their judgment so thoroughly concurred with our experiences! After several rounds of vehement agreement in which all parties roundly praised the little DAC that could, we all retired to our listening rooms to revel in the glorious sounds of transparency and immediacy that so few other DACs had managed at that price point (or any other).

Enter Zola.





The new BorderPatrol Zola is a bit of a divergence, I'm told. First, it is a hi-res capable unit. I know! The very earth itself quakes in delight. The original DAC SE was designed around the CD Redbook (so, 44.1k) standard, which to be fair, was exactly what most of us used for music until only a couple of years ago. But the new Zola can do more! Specifically, it can do 24bit/192k over USB, and 24/96 over S/PDIF and TOSlink. So, all that high-resolution music over at Qobuz is now available for your streaming joys. The Zola features a choke input filtered tube output stage, and both the digital and analog sections of the DAC have independent (and separately tube rectified) power supplies. It's a chonky little boy, chassied up in copper and cryo'd till all the electrons lined up and joined the choir. It's here, pour the beer, gather near, and start the cheer.

The pt.AUDIO crew are hoping to pick up a couple of these units for review as soon as Gary can slap a couple of faceplates on them, but there rest of you champions can get them right now, from the BorderPatrol website (order here), but if you order too many, too quickly, you'll slow our arc to triumph and probably annoy Little Marc (Smazik) who is trying to be patient. Just something to keep in mind. Price is $3,950 and you can order either silver or black faceplates.



Love those big Living Voice UK R80 Loudspeakers
Now, I've said it before and I'll say it again: life is all about love. And I love the sound of Living Voice UK loudspeakers. I don't know why. There's just something lush, something elegant, something intimate, something dare-I-say magical about the way they produce music, and the new R80 OBX are just special. Just to be clear, the "obx" means "outboard crossover", and yes, that does imply that there are "ibx" versions where the crossovers are onboard. Prices start at $51,250/pair for the on-board, finished in a Pippy Oak/Santos Rosewood; the version at the Florida Audio International Expo was the Glossy Ebony/Santos Rosewood and priced at $65,000/pair.

I've owned a pair of Avatars for almost 10 years. Had one of them (just one) stolen out of a storage locker. A year later, I recovered it from a very kind audiophile who purchased it online — and had the curiosity and tenacity to track down what happened to the other speaker in the pair. Great story — but the happy conclusion is that I now have them back, and playing, in my living room at home out on the Cape.

Compared to my then-entry-level Auditorium-line loudspeakers, the new R80 is just bigger in every way. Much larger cabinet. Much broader frequency reproduction with a vastly more powerful bass capacity. The sound is heavenly. Now, I admit that I don't love glossy finishes — this "piano" thing is something fancy people seem to really love. I personally do not love mandatory dusting and polishing, but hey, if you've a service that does that for you, maybe that's cool. Me, I really do admire a natural wood finish (think: "matte") as they reject fingerprints, nose prints, and lick-marks (you know who you are). Here's to hoping we'll see that option return to the line at some future revision.



Triode Wire Labs and Innuos and BorderPatrol
Here at Florida, the room was complemented by "Triode Pete" Grzybowski of Triode Wire Labs. You may recall our obsession (nudge nudge) with this cable brand. Shown here were the Obsession NCF power cords ($1,499 ea, featured the massive Furutech connectors and used on the distribution box), High Power Digital American II ($749 ea — used on the power supplies), the "regular" Digital American power cord ($549 — used on the DAC), the American Speaker Cables (starting at $1,099/set, here, bi-wired, with matching jumpers for the crossover box), Spirit II interconnects (OCC 7N copper at $399/pair), and a Freedom CAT6+ ethernet cable (starting at $249 ea). The "distribution box" is actually a first-get Pi Audio Uberbuss, which I've just now discovered, is once again available through the efforts of the fine folks at GR Research (check that out here).

Below decks (literally, in this case) were a pair of bits from Innuos — a last-ten ZENith streamer/server and a Phoenix USB converter.

Above and below was the BorderPatrol S20 amplifier, a parallel 300b stereo amp that is the twin of the one I have at home. A pair of EXD power supplies (mono, baby!) sat underneath.



What is the sound of ooh la la?
I've pretty much already given away the story here, but the sound quality was all that and a bag of crisps. Elegant, powerful, enticing — pretty much everything I want in an audio system. Seriously, this system sounds like one of those steamy smut "romances" that are masquerading as fantasy novels these days. "Romance, romance, romance," whisper the voices in my head.

Now, it's interesting that this system is a great example of how emergent properties work — and I'm aware that the the temptation to lay all of the room's sonic glories at the feet of the loudspeaker. I'm also familiar with most of this stuff, so I know that taking away the amp or the DAC, the cables, or even the UberBUSS will impact the sound quality. I'll revisit the DAC specifically — because I know of another room that made a mid-show switch, and because of that switch, immediately leveled up the game in the room.

I guess the point is, if this room spoke to you, there are steps you can take to get there in your own home. My recommendation? Take all the steps.

I've heard this combo more than once. Every time, I'm impressed. More, I'm comforted. This is what a great audio system ought to sound like. Detail without analytics. Extension without theatrics. Intimacy without cosmetics.

Could it be more? Assuredly. Living Voice UK, for example, has an unobtainium-level of loudspeaker offering most of us only ever see at European audio shows. I imagine those Vox Olympians would add a little something-something. A bigger room would too. A container full of room treatments, direct access to the hotel's power distribution panel, and a fine cocktail or two — none of that would hurt. But given the real world, and the constraints deriving therefrom, this room — orphaned as it was off past the little meeting-room symposium where all the presentations were held — was a showcase of great sound, and overlooked only at peril.

Thanks, Scot!!!

[ejk]

 

[Nick B]

Congratulations, Pete! Great review. As I used to own the original dac that Gary made, I went on his website to see how it was configured this time. So this is from Gary's website...

New from BorderPatrol Audio Electronics, the Zola DAC.

The Zola DAC features the Analog Devices AD1865 R-2R chip (often called the analogue chip) in non-oversampling, no digital filtering (NOS) mode.

The DAC features a tube output stage that uses a 5687 double triode. Tube types E182CC/7044/7119 can also be used, as can a 12BH7 with an adapter.

The DAC has fully independent power supplies to the digital and analogue sections. Both supplies feature tube rectification. The high voltage tube supply uses choke input filtering.

The casework, other than the aluminum faceplate, is made from copper.

It has inputs for USB, COAX S/PDIF and TOSLINK. A BNC S/PDIF input is also provided.

The DAC will replay files up to 24/192kHz via USB, 24/96kHz via COAX SPDIF/BNC and 24/96 via TOSLINK

Available with a silver or black faceplate.

Prices from $3950

[Triode Pete]

Some additional feedback from Marc Phillips, Editor-in-Chief at Part-Time Audiophile... https://pt.audio/2026/03/12/2026-florida-audio-expo-odds-and-ends-florida-2026/

2026 Florida Audio Expo Odds and Ends | Florida 2026
By Marc Phillips
March 12, 2026

This show report on the "odds and ends" at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo isn't an easy way to fulfill my promise of covering every room at a fairly small high-end audio show. pt.AUDIO has a long and noteworthy history of covering these hi-fi shows with more depth and detail than most high-end audio publications, a reputation earned well before I came along in 2018. That said, not every exhibit room at a hi-fi show should be covered by us–a room may focus on something other than two-channel audio, which is our primary focus, and sometimes even the best-planned exhibit room isn't quite realized because of the limited time there is to "dial everything in."

These rooms at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, however, all offered excellent sound and are worth discussing. In a couple of cases, Scot Hull covered the room and I didn't have anything important to add–but this is my chance to throw a little love at some truly deserving audio companies.

Volti Audio





I've been in plenty of Volti Audio rooms over the years, and there's a consistency to the sound that's unmatched by most exhibitors. As I sat and listened to the Volti Lucera loudspeakers at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, which Matthew Partrick reviewed a while back, I remembered the conclusion to his review–he said that if he hadn't already purchased the more expensive Volti Rivals as his own personal reference, he'd buy these. In Tampa, the Luceras made a stunning case for themselves–I think this pair in this room was one of the most impressive Voltis I've heard in a while.

Thanks, Marc!

Cheers,
Pete

[P.I.]

Some additional feedback from Marc Phillips, Editor-in-Chief at Part-Time Audiophile... https://pt.audio/2026/03/12/2026-florida-audio-expo-odds-and-ends-florida-2026/

2026 Florida Audio Expo Odds and Ends | Florida 2026
By Marc Phillips
March 12, 2026

This show report on the "odds and ends" at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo isn't an easy way to fulfill my promise of covering every room at a fairly small high-end audio show. pt.AUDIO has a long and noteworthy history of covering these hi-fi shows with more depth and detail than most high-end audio publications, a reputation earned well before I came along in 2018. That said, not every exhibit room at a hi-fi show should be covered by us–a room may focus on something other than two-channel audio, which is our primary focus, and sometimes even the best-planned exhibit room isn't quite realized because of the limited time there is to "dial everything in."

These rooms at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, however, all offered excellent sound and are worth discussing. In a couple of cases, Scot Hull covered the room and I didn't have anything important to add–but this is my chance to throw a little love at some truly deserving audio companies.

Volti Audio





I've been in plenty of Volti Audio rooms over the years, and there's a consistency to the sound that's unmatched by most exhibitors. As I sat and listened to the Volti Lucera loudspeakers at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, which Matthew Partrick reviewed a while back, I remembered the conclusion to his review–he said that if he hadn't already purchased the more expensive Volti Rivals as his own personal reference, he'd buy these. In Tampa, the Luceras made a stunning case for themselves–I think this pair in this room was one of the most impressive Voltis I've heard in a while.

Thanks, Marc!

Cheers,
Pete

As always, you two make music!

[Nick B]

Some additional feedback from Marc Phillips, Editor-in-Chief at Part-Time Audiophile... https://pt.audio/2026/03/12/2026-florida-audio-expo-odds-and-ends-florida-2026/

2026 Florida Audio Expo Odds and Ends | Florida 2026
By Marc Phillips
March 12, 2026

This show report on the "odds and ends" at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo isn't an easy way to fulfill my promise of covering every room at a fairly small high-end audio show. pt.AUDIO has a long and noteworthy history of covering these hi-fi shows with more depth and detail than most high-end audio publications, a reputation earned well before I came along in 2018. That said, not every exhibit room at a hi-fi show should be covered by us–a room may focus on something other than two-channel audio, which is our primary focus, and sometimes even the best-planned exhibit room isn't quite realized because of the limited time there is to "dial everything in."

These rooms at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, however, all offered excellent sound and are worth discussing. In a couple of cases, Scot Hull covered the room and I didn't have anything important to add–but this is my chance to throw a little love at some truly deserving audio companies.

Volti Audio





I've been in plenty of Volti Audio rooms over the years, and there's a consistency to the sound that's unmatched by most exhibitors. As I sat and listened to the Volti Lucera loudspeakers at the 2026 Florida Audio Expo, which Matthew Partrick reviewed a while back, I remembered the conclusion to his review–he said that if he hadn't already purchased the more expensive Volti Rivals as his own personal reference, he'd buy these. In Tampa, the Luceras made a stunning case for themselves–I think this pair in this room was one of the most impressive Voltis I've heard in a while.

Thanks, Marc!

Cheers,
Pete

As always, you two make music!

👍👍

[Triode Pete]

Some late feedback from Ken Redmond from Michael Fremer's Tracking Angle... https://trackingangle.com/features/the-florida-international-audio-expo-2026-kens-koverage

The Florida International Audio Expo 2026—Ken's Koverage

ROOMS THAT CAUGHT MY ATTENTION
By: Ken Redmond
March 17th, 2026

Border Patrol , Triode Wire Labs and Living Voice



Another room that drew me in at the Florida Audio Expo 2026 was hosted by Border Patrol Audio and its designer, Gary Dews. There was nothing flashy about the presentation—just a carefully assembled system and a clear focus on natural, unforced musicality. In a hobby that can sometimes lean toward complexity, this room felt like a gentle reminder that great sound often comes from thoughtful, elegant design choices.



The setup itself was quite straightforward, a reflection of Gary Dews' no-nonsense approach to audio. A BorderPatrol S20EXD Amplifier—delivering 16 watts of classic 300B magic—powered the visually striking and wonderfully musical R80 OBX Loudspeakers. Cabling was an affordable yet high-performing Triode Wire Labs loom. On the digital front end was Border Patrol's new ZOLA DAC. I mentioned in one of Michael Fremer's show videos that I purchased this DAC on the spot after hearing just three songs through it at Capital Audiofest last year, where it made its debut. Yes.. I'm a fan of it.

A full review of the ZOLA is coming soon on Tracking Angle.

Border Patrol's equipment has long been known for its minimalist philosophy and distinctive tube-based amplifiers and power supplies, and that character was immediately evident in the room. The sound leaned toward an organic, relaxed balance, encouraging me to settle in and listen for a while. The instruments had a convincing body and tone, and the vocals carried a sense of presence that made it easy to connect emotionally with the music.

What stood out most was the flow. Rather than dazzling listeners with hi-fi fireworks, the system focused on coherence and musical timing. Acoustic recordings, in particular, had an inviting warmth while still preserving enough detail to keep things engaging.

In the often-challenging environment of hotel-room acoustics, the Border Patrol/Living Voice system delivered a presentation that felt calm, balanced, and deeply musical. It may not have been the loudest room at the show, but it was certainly one of the most satisfying places to sit down, take a breath, and enjoy music.

Thanks, Ken!

[Nick B]

Some late feedback from Ken Redmond from Michael Fremer's Tracking Angle... https://trackingangle.com/features/the-florida-international-audio-expo-2026-kens-koverage

The Florida International Audio Expo 2026—Ken's Koverage

ROOMS THAT CAUGHT MY ATTENTION
By: Ken Redmond
March 17th, 2026

Border Patrol , Triode Wire Labs and Living Voice



Another room that drew me in at the Florida Audio Expo 2026 was hosted by Border Patrol Audio and its designer, Gary Dews. There was nothing flashy about the presentation—just a carefully assembled system and a clear focus on natural, unforced musicality. In a hobby that can sometimes lean toward complexity, this room felt like a gentle reminder that great sound often comes from thoughtful, elegant design choices.



The setup itself was quite straightforward, a reflection of Gary Dews' no-nonsense approach to audio. A BorderPatrol S20EXD Amplifier—delivering 16 watts of classic 300B magic—powered the visually striking and wonderfully musical R80 OBX Loudspeakers. Cabling was an affordable yet high-performing Triode Wire Labs loom. On the digital front end was Border Patrol's new ZOLA DAC. I mentioned in one of Michael Fremer's show videos that I purchased this DAC on the spot after hearing just three songs through it at Capital Audiofest last year, where it made its debut. Yes.. I'm a fan of it.

A full review of the ZOLA is coming soon on Tracking Angle.

Border Patrol's equipment has long been known for its minimalist philosophy and distinctive tube-based amplifiers and power supplies, and that character was immediately evident in the room. The sound leaned toward an organic, relaxed balance, encouraging me to settle in and listen for a while. The instruments had a convincing body and tone, and the vocals carried a sense of presence that made it easy to connect emotionally with the music.

What stood out most was the flow. Rather than dazzling listeners with hi-fi fireworks, the system focused on coherence and musical timing. Acoustic recordings, in particular, had an inviting warmth while still preserving enough detail to keep things engaging.

In the often-challenging environment of hotel-room acoustics, the Border Patrol/Living Voice system delivered a presentation that felt calm, balanced, and deeply musical. It may not have been the loudest room at the show, but it was certainly one of the most satisfying places to sit down, take a breath, and enjoy music.

Thanks, Ken!

Nice!! 👍

[Triode Pete]

A nice Michael Fremer video featuring both Volti Audio & BorderPatrol Audio Electronics who use the Triode Wire Labs looms exclusively!

[P.I.]

A nice Michael Fremer video featuring both Volti Audio & BorderPatrol Audio Electronics who use the Triode Wire Labs looms exclusively!

[Nick B]

A nice Michael Fremer video featuring both Volti Audio & BorderPatrol Audio Electronics who use the Triode Wire Labs looms exclusively!

Thanks. Extensive video by Fremer. Haven't seen any of his videos in quite a while.

[Triode Pete]

Show Highlights | Florida 2026
By Scot Hull on April 11, 2026

https://pt.audio/2026/04/11/show-highlights-florida-2026/

BorderPatrol Audio with Living Voice UK and Triode Wire Labs

Three of my favorite brands — and I mean that, I do own Living Voice UK loudspeakers, Triode Wire Labs cables, and a BorderPatrol amplifier much like the one shown here — and I'm pretty much in my happy place. Aside from all the other show-goers breathing and touching me and stuff, that is. The new Zola DAC is going to a be a hit for BorderPatrol — it's affordable, it's full-rez, and it's luscious. Mmm, mmm! This is not just the sound of a good hi-fi, this is the sound of *my* hi-fi. Or maybe one day will be, if I can find a way to scrape together the duckets to bring in my very own pair of those big R80 LV speakers. A boy can dream.

Thanks, Scot!

[Nick B]

Thanks, Pete. Nice comments by Scot. Are you displaying with Volti nowadays?

[Triode Pete]

Thanks, Pete. Nice comments by Scot. Are you displaying with Volti nowadays?

Hi Nick,
Yes, my entire TWL cable loom is in AXPONA Room 588 with Volti Audio right now. I decided not to go this year... It's just too big of a show!

Cheers.
Pete

[Nick B]

Thanks, Pete. Nice comments by Scot. Are you displaying with Volti nowadays?

Hi Nick,
Yes, my entire TWL cable loom is in AXPONA Room 588 with Volti Audio right now. I decided not to go this year... It's just too big of a show!

Cheers.
Pete

Hi Pete,

I understand. Good to hear you still have that relationship with Greg. It must be quite an undertaking to participate in these shows! Am curious what the next show is that you'll be attending.

Nick