Is this a cheaper clone of BBE Sonic Maximiser?

[darwin_deathcat]

Hi all, I originally posted this at the end of the long thread "what is the BBE sonic maximiser", but I don't think anybody noticed it there, so i decided to start a new thread... So here goes:

Anyone know if this $20.00 unit is similar to the BBE sonic maximiser? http://www.alltronics.com/cgi-bin/item/22U016/87/High-Definition-Audio-Processor The description says that is a "high definition music processor", and that it "recreates the 'live' phenomena" all things that you are all saying the BBE does, and what I've heard elsewhere it does. If it actually works with live sound (guitar, harmonica, bass, etc.) it could be a great low-cost alternative! I'm quoting the product description below for those who don't want to follow the link.

This High Definition Audio (HDA) Processor. Includes manual, cable, and power supply. What this unit does... Live sound is a transient phenomenon. HDA is a technology that recreates the "live" experience. It has a quality and feeling that you can't compare to anything else. This processor adds an increased "liveliness" and "spatial" feel to music. You can adjust the amount of processing the unit does, or bypass it completely. Being audio enthusiasts, we here at Alltronics were eager to put it to the test and hear the unit for ourselves. We immediately noticed the difference. It gives a "concert hall" sound. Our "old-timer" says it reminds him of the reverb units that were popular back in the 70's. This unit is especially suited to enhancing digitally recorded music, like on CD or DAT, which can sometime seem to lack a certain high-end "sparkle". Similar features to the Sonic Maximizer. Large quantity available, inquire about discounts on lots of 100 or more. Includes wallwart.

Another customer reported: First of all , this unit is much more useful than those old 'reverb' units that were touted as doing the same thing, i.e. improving the audio 'space'... The effect this unit gives is much more subtle, the bass and treble are enhanced, and the stereo sounds, are, well, more 'stereo'. As a bit of an Audiophile, I probably wouldn't use this regularly with a CD player, turntable, or reel-to-reel, but I found it enhances a PC's sound immensely, very, very impressive. (Mind you, I run my PC's sound through this unit, and into my stereo system, not the cheap amplified PC speakers...) Only caveat, if your stereo is prone to distortion at higher volumes, take care, as this unit does increase output. Overall, awesome...

[Mark Hammer]

Cures lumbago and baldness too!

It might be something that plunks a BBE chip and accompanyng passive components into a box....but it might not.  It's hard to tell from the description.