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I have never seen DAC like this Ampapa Q1 review
I have already reviewed the first two products from Ampapa, the A1 preamp and D1 amp. Both solid and great products, that had distinguished style and regarding the D1 amp, great sonics that can rival all the best products in that price range. In the description of this video, I will link to my reviews of these products. Ampapa D1 review: https://www.hifidaydreaming.com/post/finally-stylish-cheap-and-good-amp-douk-audio-x-ampapa-d1-review-vs-fosi-and-ayima Ampapa A1 review: .
1 day ago8 min read
These Speakers made me Rethink my Entire Hi-Fi System Fiio SP5 Speakers review
While there is a preconception in the audiophile world, that if you want great gear and utmost quality you should go with passive speakers and separate components. While that might be true, it is a more expensive road to travel, even though it is more flexible and allows for experimentation. Destroying preconceptions But more and more we see active speakers “actively” knocking on the door of that perception and blurring the line between just monitors and great audiophile hi-f
5 days ago11 min read
News
Tresound Mini: When a Desktop Speaker Becomes a Design Object
Sometimes the best tech isn’t the loudest. It’s the kind that makes you stop for a second and actually look at it before you press play. That’s exactly what designers Yong Cao and Jianfeng Lv have achieved with the Tresound Mini — a desktop Bluetooth speaker that refuses to blend into the usual sea of anonymous black boxes. At first glance, the Tresound Mini feels more like something you’d expect to find in a modern art gallery than on an office desk. Its cone-shaped, archi
3 hours ago3 min read
Arcam Finally Unleashes Radia AV – And It Might Be the Most Serious Home Cinema Line the Brand Has Ever Built
Three new AV receivers, a flagship processor/power combo, and a wall-mountable add-on amp — Arcam’s Radia AV range is all about cinematic muscle without sacrificing audiophile DNA. After months of teasing its Radia stereo gear, Arcam has finally done what home cinema fans have been waiting for: it’s gone big on AV again. The new Radia AV line brings three full-fat AV receivers , a separates-based flagship system , and even a compact expansion amp — all designed to put Arcam
3 hours ago3 min read
Sonos’ Boldest Amp Yet Is Designed to Disappear – But It Lives and Dies by the App
The new Sonos Amp Multi is built to be hidden inside your walls, run entirely from software, and power your whole home — assuming the app finally behaves. Sonos has spent the last year unusually quiet. No flashy soundbars, no headline-grabbing speakers — just a slow, careful effort to repair the damage caused by its much-criticised app overhaul. Now, it’s back with something radically different. Meet the Sonos Amp Multi : a multi-zone, installer-grade amplifier designed to be
3 hours ago3 min read
JBL Revives the L100 Once Again – And This Time It’s a True 80th Anniversary Collectible
Limited to 800 pairs worldwide, the L100 Classic 80 blends 1970s studio DNA with modern driver tech, premium finishes, and serious collector appeal. Some speakers refuse to fade into history. The JBL L100 is one of them. First launched in the early 1970s, the L100 became one of the most recognizable loudspeakers ever made — big, bold, unapologetically American, and responsible for defining what “fun hi-fi” sounded like for an entire generation. Now, to celebrate its 80th ann
4 days ago2 min read
Ruark’s 40th Anniversary R810 Is a Handcrafted Radiogram for the Ultra-Luxury Age
Made in England, limited to just 100 units worldwide, and priced like a piece of furniture art – the R810 MiE is Ruark’s most exclusive creation yet. In an era dominated by black boxes, wireless earbuds and invisible streaming, Ruark Audio has chosen a radically different way to celebrate its 40th birthday: by doubling down on craft, furniture-grade design and old-school luxury . The result is the Ruark Audio R810 MiE — a special, anniversary edition of its flagship all-in-o
4 days ago2 min read
Ikea’s Most Popular Shelf Just Got Its Perfect Speaker Match
Eversolo enters the passive speaker world with the SE100 – square bookshelf speakers designed to slide straight into Ikea’s iconic Kallax system. Eversolo is best known for its sleek, touchscreen-heavy streaming DACs and amplifiers, but the brand is now stepping into more traditional hi-fi territory. Its latest product, the Eversolo SE100 , marks the company’s first-ever passive bookshelf speakers — and they come with a twist that’s as much about interior design as it is abou
5 days ago3 min read
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Speakers
These Speakers made me Rethink my Entire Hi-Fi System Fiio SP5 Speakers review
While there is a preconception in the audiophile world, that if you want great gear and utmost quality you should go with passive speakers and separate components. While that might be true, it is a more expensive road to travel, even though it is more flexible and allows for experimentation. Destroying preconceptions But more and more we see active speakers “actively” knocking on the door of that perception and blurring the line between just monitors and great audiophile hi-f
5 days ago11 min read
The KEF Speaker That Finally Changed My Mind - Q Concerto Meta review / w. 5 alternatives
I think KEF is one of those companies that you either really like their products, or you think they are overrated. And I think that is more about the philosophy of KEF, that they are always sticking to their guns. It is very transparent, clean, and insightful performance. Fixing one of the biggest KEF weaknesses If you like that, it certainly brings a lot of value, as they do that amazingly for an affordable price. They created shockwaves around the globe with LS50 and LS50 M
Jan 510 min read
Edifier have created perfect budget desktop speakers M60 review
I wanted to buy some cheap desktop alternatives for my work desk as a way to see what's up with the cheaper speaker market. I tested a...
Jul 31, 20259 min read
Greatest audiophile speaker no one is talking about - Dali Menuet Review
I spent a lot of time in audio shops, listening to many different speakers. Trying to find which one I will like, buy and eventually...
Jul 17, 202512 min read
Amplifiers
Douk Audio x Ampapa A1 brings outstanding versatility and quality at 129$ preamp review vs. Fosi and Aiyima
I recommend that you look at my review of Ampapa D1 for a more fuller picture of collaboration of Douk Audio and Ampapa. But here we have a really great product. Why you need preamp A product that on its own is a bit hard sell, but as a supplementary product is a must have, ofc I speak about A1 preamp, to your amp. And as with every Class D amps, these tube preamps just go so well just like butter on a jelly. Its warmth and emphasis on lower spectrum of dynamics scale, helps
Dec 8, 20256 min read
Finally stylish, cheap and good amp Douk Audio x Ampapa D1 review / vs Fosi and Ayima
I think we all can agree that sonic renaissance that came from the East brought many quality cheap devices, will that be DACs, streamers, amp etc. But while they are masters of using chip devices to maximise its quality and value, there is always a lot to be desired with looks of those devices. Very simple design language in industrial design and software design alike. I wanted for long time to see some experimentation here. And while Douk Audio is not aimed to win design awa
Dec 6, 20258 min read
Is this the most complete amp under 200 euros? Aiyima A80 review
It is great to see companies listen, and deliver what they think their users need. And this is an almost perfect example of such a thing....
Aug 10, 20258 min read
This is the only Class D amp you should be looking at SMSL PA-X Review
Audiophile world is experiencing a change, we see many cheap devices coming that sound great, we see more and more different offers, with...
Jul 3, 202514 min read
HEADPHONES AND GEAR
Amazing Design, DAC and Power Output at 399$ D&A Alpha Review /vs Topping, Fiio, Ifi
I don't remember a device that was a company's first device creating that many ripples in the sea of audiophiles. Their Alpha Pro DAC was received pretty well among both subjective and objective reviewers, which to me is always such a surprise for a device like this. Amazing Design And not just that, its looks are so modern and, let's say, unique that it left an impression on me. It reminds me of another Chinese company called Nothing, which makes mobile phones, etc. This fee
Jan 2511 min read
This is what your first DAP should look like Fiio M21 review
*Lot more images and videos of product in the video review above. What Fiio did with M21 is should be understand as company providing no corners cut, to give DAP that gives outmost value at this price range. This is something that money you gives, does not have that big diminishing value. In that I can see many, many audiophiles be completely satisfied with this device for long time. And that is why I think this should in perfect world be a first device for anyone wanting, no
Jan 208 min read
Onix XM2 Tocata Finally solves one of my biggest issues with DAPs.
*A lot more pictures and videos of product and use cases in video. Solving a real problem I love DAPs, they remind me of my childhood of carrying MP3 players wherever I went. That small pill-shaped device was my dream box. I loved it more than anything, carried it everywhere, my isolation from the world, my deeper connection to music. Well, it was like that until phones became good enough to have their own internal MP3 players, and until I got deeper into audiophile addiction
Jan 1414 min read
TRN Whaleshark is amazing value hybrid planar IEMs
I found continues effort from TRN to be a great indicator that they love to adapt and yet hold their cards close. They try to innovate and follow current needs with their drivers, and setup. And I found quite interesting the new IEM hybrid technology with 3dd and planar for rather reasonable price. And they have continued on line of sea creatures name, like medusa, seahorse, jaws etc. I was like yeah I will try them. And I did, and I was pleasant surprise. Introduction: A Spl
Nov 18, 20255 min read
Music STREAMERS
This is the best streamer of 2025, but it is just not for me... yet FiiO S15 review
*My unit have been damaged in the transport, but it was just cosmetically and nothing on handwear level. As of long waiting time to...
Sep 30, 202517 min read
Tiny, Wireless & Surprisingly Good! Arylic LP10 Streamer Review
Arylic as a company have a great reputation among DIY circles. They build quality and cheap components for you to build your amps, active...
Jul 8, 20256 min read
In-depth review of Bluesound Node Icon (vs. Cambridge Audio CXN100, Eversolo DMP-A6, Wiim Ultra, Primare NP5...)
It is becoming more and more apparent that we live in a future era of hi-fi, where music streamers play a pivotal role, allowing...
Feb 25, 202518 min read
Unbeatable sound and value. Primare NP5 Prisma MKII music streamer Review - versus Bluesound Node, Cambridge Audio MXN10
There is a great value visiting audio stores because it is one of the best ways to uncover new gear and get recommendations. So recently...
Nov 5, 20244 min read
DACS
I have never seen DAC like this Ampapa Q1 review
I have already reviewed the first two products from Ampapa, the A1 preamp and D1 amp. Both solid and great products, that had distinguished style and regarding the D1 amp, great sonics that can rival all the best products in that price range. In the description of this video, I will link to my reviews of these products. Ampapa D1 review: https://www.hifidaydreaming.com/post/finally-stylish-cheap-and-good-amp-douk-audio-x-ampapa-d1-review-vs-fosi-and-ayima Ampapa A1 review: .
1 day ago8 min read
Amazing Design, DAC and Power Output at 399$ D&A Alpha Review /vs Topping, Fiio, Ifi
I don't remember a device that was a company's first device creating that many ripples in the sea of audiophiles. Their Alpha Pro DAC was received pretty well among both subjective and objective reviewers, which to me is always such a surprise for a device like this. Amazing Design And not just that, its looks are so modern and, let's say, unique that it left an impression on me. It reminds me of another Chinese company called Nothing, which makes mobile phones, etc. This fee
Jan 2511 min read
SMSL PS200 PRO is a tiny HIFI miracle that cares about sonics and your budget
At first glance, the SMSL PS200 barely registers as a serious hi-fi component. Its extremely compact form factor and understated design suggest convenience rather than ambition. Yet once integrated into a proper system, the PS200 reveals itself as a surprisingly disciplined and capable digital-to-analog converter, one that places transparency and control above coloration and spectacle. Built around ESS Technology’s latest 9039Q2M DAC chip, the PS200 is designed to deliver ext
Dec 23, 20256 min read
SMSL D200 Review: A Bold Experiment and Gamble That Redefined Value in DACs
I have waited ever since first hearing this DAC in Shenzhen a few months ago to truly listen to it at home. It is a new age, an SMSL 2.0 for this company. And they are realizing an underdog in an industry, a Japanese technology company Rohm, to be the heart of their new generation of DACs. SMSLs Gamble and experiment For now, it is known that AKM and ESS are pretty much rulers of the DAC market, with Burr Brown following behind them. At majority of DACs that use delta-sigma D
Dec 18, 202510 min read
CD PLAYERs
New Shanling EC Zero AKM is peak value and quality for portable CD Players Review vs. FiiO Dm13, EC Zero T, Moondrop Discdream 2 Ultra
*More information, videos and photos of this product in review above I think I started my audio lover career at the twilight of cassette players. I personally never liked cassette players, I think they were a portable necessity of their age, but just could never translate well into the future once newer and greater things arrived. But what brought me to this stage of life was my love of portable CD players. I used to listen to music so much that often I would fall asleep with
Oct 27, 202512 min read
Finally the future of CD Players is here, and it is Awesome! SMSL PL200t Review
You guys know I love CDs, I started my audiophile journey by collecting CDs. It still is my favourite way to listen to music, maybe not...
Jun 8, 202510 min read
Sony ubp-x800m2 vs Panasonic dp-ub820 comparison and review! And why you need Blu Ray player in 2025!
I'm seeing that Blu-ray players haven't evolved significantly in the past 4-5 years, and this stagnation prompted me to write this...
Jan 19, 202510 min read
Great Value! Primare CD15 Prisma vs Marantz CD50n Comparison and Review. CD Player/Music Streamer!
This time of two similar purpose devices, and that is to be full spectrum digital all purpose CD players with network streamers. ...
Jul 27, 202411 min read
Turntables and phono Equipment
The Best 50€ You’ll Spend on Your Turntable upgrade – PSVANE Horizon Tube Review
I honestly think if you have tubes in your system, and you like Vinyl, this 50 euro upgrade is essential. I really think how much value and improvement you get from these tubes is miles beyond your stock ones that you get with your device. I used PS Vanes Horizon 12ax7 tubes to improve my phono preamp that I have currently in possession. I used to dabble a little bit with tube rolling, having tubes from Telefunken, Mullard in my possession at different times.
Apr 28, 20257 min read
Sumiko Amethyst & Ortofon 2M Black are End Game MM cartridges! /w. alternatives (Nagaoka, Goldring)
See my favorite Phono Cartridges under 750 euros: https://www.hifidaydreaming.com/post/my-favorite-best-phono-cartridges-under-750-euros-...
Nov 7, 202412 min read
Wiim Pro Plus Review vs. Budget CD Player/Turntable (Pro-Ject Primary E Phono and CD Box E) - Battle of Budget Sources
This will mainly be a Wiim Pro Plus review, but I also want to put one idea into perspective. How much value does a budget streamer bring...
Jul 12, 202415 min read
My Reference Phono Preamps! Pro-Ject Phono & Tube Box DS3 Comparison and Review
What is HIFI Reference I think the word "Reference" in Hi-Fi is being thrown around quite often these days, and I think it usually...
Jul 10, 20247 min read
HIFI MISCELLANEOUS
Report from Shenzhen International Audio Show 2025 w/ Smsl, FiiO, Dunu, Hiby, Moondrop, Softears, Eversolo, Matrix Audio, Sendy Audio, Gustard, Shanling, Luxsin, Fosi...
All the new announcements from SIAS 2025 *For more pictures, clips and additional information watch video report above. What is SIAS 2025...
Sep 5, 202515 min read
How far does the HIFI Rabbit Hole goes? /W. Audioquest Powerquest 3 Review
Audioquest PowerQuest 3 Review So power filters, power conditioners. A very ambiguous subject in the HIFI world; many say they don't do...
Aug 28, 20255 min read
Battle of best value XLR Cables Oehlbach XXL 1, QED Reference 40 and AudioQuest Red River
Oehlbach XXL 1 XLR Review The Oehlbach XXL Series 1 XLR is a high-performance, German-engineered audio cable designed with one goal in...
Jul 14, 20257 min read
Dirac Live: The One Tool EVERY Audiophile Should Own! Room Correction In-depth review
Tell me now what is the biggest improvement to your sound, beside buying a new HIFI Gear, that you can bring tangible great results for...
Jun 28, 202512 min read
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