For me two things are equally evident: few musicians master cantilena and audio systems are rarely capable of conveying it adequately. Why? There doesn't seem to be an intrinsic problem. If a sound lingers on in the recording, then it must be played back likewise. But it doesn't always happen. To create a lingering piano note, any timbre thinning must be cancelled at all cost. Like other S.A.Lab amps, the Hercules MkII is very good at managing cantilena. This quality is revealed on instrumental chamber pieces like string quartets, the fabric of a large orchestra or even percussion, i.e. the timpani membrane vibration phase, the tails of cymbals, triangles or celestas. Finally this ability was revealed while playing back male, female or children's voices. In the end, I picture the following Hercules MkII entourage for the rare owner: the amps must be provided with a large acoustically treated room and adequate system partners. There has to be a considerable distance between listeners and speakers, at least 6 metres. And finally, cough, the owner will probably have to get his or her floor reinforced!
Artjom Avatinjan