The Latest MAG-ACI News

Added Nov. 21, 2010: A timeline of how MAG came to build the Sapphire XL².

Before the decision was made to close ACI’s doors, Mike Dzurko had completed the revisions and plans for the new generation Sapphire. He called it the XL². At the end of 2009, thinking it was possible no more would be built, he kept the last two pre-production pairs to enjoy in his home systems.

During the Winter of 2009-2010 Mike had conversations with a handful of folks who were serious about buying ACI in some form. Mike concluded that though some of the offers would be nice from a financial standpoint, they required a greater time commitment from him than he was comfortable with.

Spring, 2010. Mark Sayer at Meniscus Audio Group, (MAG), contacts Mike Dzurko to ask about possibly licensing to build certain ACI designs. Mike and Mark have known each other for a long time. ACI sourced many component parts from Meniscus over the years.  Over the next several months, a number of phone and email conversations take place discussing possibilities.

In June, Mike meets with Mark in Grand Rapids, MI. Mike is very impressed with the capabilities Mark has to build high quality cabinets in-house and using local vendors for custom finishes, etc. For several years, Mike had wished there was a cost-effective way to once again build the cabinets here in the U.S. In fact, in 2008-2009 he had met with and worked with a number of area cabinet builders to explore local cabinet building options. Mike had always believed it would be ideal to be able to offer customers the opportunity for a large variety of cabinet finishes. By offering several “stock” finishes, costs could be kept down for the majority of buyers. Those who wanted something a bit different, would have the choice to pay a little more and get their own special version. It is obvious that Mark has the capabilities for making this all happen. By the end of the meeting, Mark and Mike set a tentative goal of being in production of the Sapphire XL² by the end of 2010.

Nov. 1, 2010: Mike Dzurko and MAG announce the introduction of the Sapphire XL²

 Mike Dzurko makes the announcement on the ACI Forum hosted by Audiocircle. Several pre-orders have already been placed at the time of the announcement. Mike and MAG are hoping to fill the first orders before the end of the year.

Dec. 30, 2010:  Shipping announcement on the forum.

Mike Dzurko states that the first orders should be shipping by mid January 2011.