If the analogue replay astounds and the pairing with the D1.5 (via the CH-LINK HD) is nearly as impressive, don’t think that the streaming input or the other digital connections are sub-standard. Yes, the Ethernet input benefits from the addition of an Aardvark inline filter – but what streaming input doesn’t? So equipped, Roon replay of streamed files from Qobuz has the sense of musical substance and rhythmic/dynamic integrity that so often escapes dematerialized music, making it a viable source for serious listening and elevating it well above the ‘background wallpaper’ role which is all most streamed material is fit for. That same sense of musical confidence and easy access informs the S/PDIF replay, in this case from the digital outputs of the Wadia S7i – the I1 easily eclipsing the performance of the Wadia’s on-board DAC, which sounded dull, rounded and somewhat muddled in comparison. The I1’s relaxed clarity and sense of natural musical proportion are CH hallmarks and the integrated certainly possesses a full measure, combined with the ability to get down and get dirty if required. The raucous ‘Piece Of Crap’ (another track from Sleeps With Angels) has never been a personal favourite, one of the better reasons to reach for the skip button if you are playing the CD as opposed to the record. The I1 does nothing to soften, round or mute the abrasive and aggressive onslaught – and nor should it. It’s an object lesson in the new, balanced and purposeful performance that the CH integrated can deliver.
Is it time for a rethink?
If (like me) you thought you had the measure of the I1, based on earlier experience, you might want to think again. The all-singing, all-dancing, single-box solution has moved the goalposts. Or, perhaps more accurately, it has extended its footprint. It still doesn’t occupy the same ground as the hunky, muscle-bound, middle-weight power house integrateds the market apparently demands and loves so much – at least according to the manufacturers building them. Instead it takes a more cerebral approach to the problem and is, I would argue, capable of more subtle and thought provoking results. The previous pickiness about partnering speakers has been significantly reduced, further broadening its possible applications and appeal. An amp for all seasons and everyman? No – but as Jackson Browne might have it, perhaps it’s time to “give up the race and maybe find something better”… Or at least start appreciating the possible benefits of a different mind-set and a different approach to what seems like a familiar problem. Sometimes, putting an old picture in a new frame makes it look a whole lot different. The I1 isn’t a complete 1 Series system in a box. It isn’t a cut-price way of buying the performance of 1 Series separates. Let’s be honest, even the I1 can’t be described as cheap! It isn’t even the first rung on the 1 Series ladder. What it is though, is a compelling example of the musical power and engineering advantages of CH’s software driven approach: not just in terms of performance or versatility, but also upgradability and longevity. What it is – or should be – is considerable food for thought…
