NEWs

Topping DX9 Discrete — deep dive news + analysis Topping isn’t just releasing another DAC here—it’s making a clear statement: we’re done playing inside the usual chip-DAC sandbox. The DX9 Discrete is a full desktop control center built around a proprietary discrete conversion architecture, and it’s aimed straight at users who want maximum control, power, and flexibility in one box. This is less of a “DAC upgrade” and more of a system replacement component. What the DX9 Discre

A dedicated disc spinner built around precision playback, modern digital processing, and classic hi-fi values. With the introduction of the NAD C 589, NAD Electronics is doubling down on something many thought was fading away: the compact disc. And it’s doing so without trying to reinvent the category. A focused return to physical media The NAD C 589 joins NAD’s Classic Series as a dedicated CD player, designed with a clear purpose: Extract the maximum performance from your C

A familiar streamer on the outside—completely different on the inside. With the new Shanling SM1.3R, Shanling is taking an interesting turn: keeping its proven streaming platform intact while swapping in a very different DAC architecture. Same design, new core philosophy At a glance, the Shanling SM1.3R looks identical to the earlier SM1.3: 5.8-inch touchscreen Compact desktop chassis Android-based streaming system Same connectivity and layout But internally, this is not a mi

A feature-packed 7.2-channel receiver that doubles down on usability, gaming, and wireless flexibility—without crossing the $1,000 line. With the introduction of the Denon AVR-S980H , Denon is refining—not reinventing—its popular S-Series formula. And that’s very intentional. This is about making home theater easier, not more complicated. A familiar formula, tightened where it counts The Denon AVR-S980H  replaces the AVR-S970H, staying in the same price tier (~$949), but addi

A bigger, sharper, more ambitious take on one of the most popular powered speaker lineups. With the unveiling of the Kanto Tuk Grand , Kanto Audio is doing something it hasn’t really done before: Pushing beyond “great value desktop audio” into something that looks a lot more like serious hi-fi territory . From crowd favorite to flagship statement Kanto has built its reputation on accessible, well-designed speakers like: Yu series Ora Ren Tuk Now, the Kanto Tuk Grand  becomes

A powerful integrated amplifier that updates a proven design with the features people actually use in 2026. With the launch of the Musical Fidelity M6xi , Musical Fidelity is taking a familiar formula—and making it far more practical for modern systems. The pitch is simple: Keep the analog performance people loved… and fix everything that felt outdated. Built on a proven foundation The Musical Fidelity M6xi  evolves from the well-regarded M6si platform, but pulls in tech from

A compact subwoofer redesigned from the ground up—with more power, larger drivers, and smarter DSP control. With the announcement of the SVS 3000 Micro R|Evolution , SVS isn’t just refreshing a product line—it’s making a pretty bold claim: That a truly small  subwoofer doesn’t have to behave like one anymore. Bigger drivers, more power, same footprint The new SVS 3000 Micro R|Evolution  replaces the original 3000 Micro, but keeps roughly the same compact size. What changes is

A $140 CD player with a built-in DAC and headphone amp—landing right as physical media makes a quiet comeback. With the launch of the Fosi Audio Merak CD Player , Fosi Audio is doing something a lot of bigger brands seem reluctant to do: Taking CDs seriously again—but without taking your wallet hostage. Yes, CDs are back (a little)… and this is exactly the kind of product that fits CDs aren’t replacing streaming—but they are  resurging among: Collectors Younger listeners disc

A $6,000 DAC that tries to make digital sound more “honest”… even if that honesty isn’t always comfortable. With the release (and early impressions) of the HiFi Rose RD160 , HiFi Rose is clearly aiming at the serious end of the digital market—people who already know what they like, and more importantly, what they don’t . And interestingly, this DAC seems built to challenge expectations rather than simply please. A delta-sigma DAC… for people who don’t like delta-sigma? At its

This isn’t just a new product line—it’s a statement about where “traditional” hi-fi is trying to go next. With the Nova range, Advance Paris is aiming higher than ever, blending: Classic analog aesthetics (yes, tubes and VU meters) Modern streaming and HDMI integration A modular, expandable ecosystem And while the ambition is clear, the execution raises some interesting questions. The core: two serious integrated amps At the heart of Nova are: Advance Paris A-i130  (130W per

Vinyl is booming—but patience isn’t. Sony clearly knows which side it’s betting on. With the launch of the Sony PS-LX3BT  and Sony PS-LX5BT , Sony is doubling down on a very specific idea: Vinyl should be as easy as streaming—even if that annoys purists. And honestly, this might be exactly what the market wants right now. Fully automatic + Bluetooth = zero friction Both models share the same core philosophy: One-button fully automatic playback  (no manual cueing) Bluetooth wi

A CD player, streamer, DAC, and headphone amp—for $399. Sounds like a compromise, right? Surprisingly… not really. The Shanling CD80II  is one of those products that feels almost out of time. In a world obsessed with apps, ecosystems, and endless updates, this thing quietly asks: What if one small box just… did everything you need? And more importantly—what if it did it well enough to make you stop overthinking your system? The appeal: simplicity in a complicated world The wh

Because apparently, sounding incredible isn’t enough—you also need to look like a museum piece. With the latest Atelier Editions of the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 90 , B&O isn’t trying to improve the sound. It’s trying to redefine what a flagship speaker is . And depending on how you look at it, this is either peak high-end audio… or peak high-end excess. Same insane speaker, now dressed like sculpture Let’s get one thing clear:These new editions— Monarch  and Zenith —don’t change

A new sub-$1,000 contender wants to be more than a streamer—it wants to sit at the center of your entire system. The network streamer category is getting crowded—and more interesting by the month. Now Shanling is stepping into the fight with the Shanling SM90 , a feature-packed unit that blends traditional hi-fi architecture with a modern, lifestyle-driven twist. At roughly $900–$1,000 , the SM90 isn’t just competing—it’s trying to redefine what a streamer should actually do

A small speaker system with big ambitions—blurring the line between desktop audio, hi-fi, and soundbar alternatives. Edifier has unveiled the Edifier M90 , a compact active speaker system that quietly challenges what we expect from “desktop speakers.” On paper, it’s a small, powered stereo pair. In reality, it’s something more ambitious: a single system designed to handle your PC, TV, streaming, and everyday listening—without compromise. HDMI eARC changes everything Let’s sta

The budget hi-fi specialist enters the streaming era—and the S3 might be its most important product yet. Over the past few years, Fosi Audio has built a loyal following by doing one thing extremely well: delivering no-nonsense, affordable hi-fi gear  that punches above its price. Compact amps, DACs, and desktop-friendly components have been its bread and butter. But with the launch of the Fosi Audio S3 , the company is stepping into something much bigger. This isn’t just anot

A bold $849 all-in-one challenges the idea that true high-end digital audio needs complexity—or a four-figure budget. LAiV has unveiled the Crescendo VERSE , a compact desktop component that combines a discrete R2R DAC, headphone amplifier, and active preamp into a single chassis—targeting a price point that feels almost aggressive for what’s being promised. At $849 , this isn’t just another DAC/amp combo. It’s a direct statement: high-end sound doesn’t have to be expensive—o

The award winning streamer gets a subtle but meaningful upgrade, finally bridging the gap between traditional hi-fi and modern TV setups. Cambridge Audio has unveiled the CXN100 SE , a revised version of its highly regarded network streamer—and while the update might look minor on paper, it addresses one of the most frustrating limitations in modern hi-fi systems. The headline addition? HDMI eARC . Finally, your TV joins the hi-fi system At its core, the new Cambridge Audio C

A striking projector concept by a young French designer raises an uncomfortable question for the industry: why doesn’t high-end home cinema look this good already? Most concept designs come and go without consequence—visual exercises meant to spark conversation rather than shape real products. But the BeoLens Horizon , imagined by Baptiste Baumeister, feels different. It doesn’t just look good—it feels inevitable , like something Bang & Olufsen should already have in producti

Fresh finishes, slightly higher prices—and a clear message: style matters just as much as sound in today’s premium wireless market. Bowers & Wilkins has unveiled a new wave of colour options for two of its most popular wireless models—the flagship Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 and the highly regarded Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3. At first glance, this might seem like a minor refresh. But in reality, it says a lot about where the premium headphone market is heading—and where Bowers & Wilkin

When hi-fi heritage meets fashion culture, you get something like this—a limited-edition Technics deck that’s as much about identity as it is about sound. Legendary audio brand Technics  has teamed up with New York fashion label Aimé Leon Dore  to create the SL-1200M7ALD , a special-edition version of one of the most iconic turntables ever made. Finished in ALD’s signature mulberry green , this release blends audiophile engineering with lifestyle design —and it’s aimed just a

With the Lyr 5, Schiit blends tube warmth, solid-state precision, and something genuinely new—live Class A monitoring. American audio company Schiit Audio  has introduced the Lyr 5 , a desktop headphone amplifier that pushes beyond traditional hybrid designs by combining tube and solid-state operation with real-time performance feedback . At first glance, it’s another evolution of Schiit’s well-known Lyr series. In practice, it’s something more experimental—and arguably more

With the launch of the X430 amplifier and Q430 CD player, Rotel is bringing its premium Michi philosophy to a more approachable price point—without losing sight of performance. British hi-fi mainstay Rotel  has officially expanded its premium lineup with the new Michi Prestige Series , introducing two debut components: the Michi X430  and Michi Q430 . Originally relaunched in 2019, the Michi range has been positioned as Rotel’s no-compromise, high-end offering . With the Pres

With a larger cabinet, new drivers and a redesigned crossover, Buchardt’s latest S400 aims to deliver bigger sound and deeper bass in one of hi-fi’s most competitive speaker categories. Danish loudspeaker specialist Buchardt Audio  has officially unveiled the Buchardt Audio S400 MK3 , the newest generation of its popular standmount loudspeaker platform. The S400 series has been one of Buchardt’s defining products since its first prototype appeared in 2016. Known for producing

Emotiva’s updated BasX TA2+ integrated amplifier combines serious power, modern connectivity, and flexible system integration — all at a price designed for real-world audiophiles. American hi-fi manufacturer Emotiva has announced the release of the BasX TA2+ , a new version of its popular integrated amplifier that aims to deliver high-performance two-channel audio without the high-end price tag . Priced at $1,299 , the new amplifier is designed to act as the central hub of a

Belgian technology giant Barco is acquiring the parent company behind two of hi-fi’s most respected brands in a €135 million deal aimed at creating fully integrated audiovisual systems. Two iconic names in high-end audio — Focal  and Naim Audio  — are about to change ownership. Their parent company VerVent Audio Holding  has reached an agreement to be acquired by Barco , a global leader in professional visualisation, cinema projection and collaboration technology. The deal, v

First seen at CanJam NYC, Sendy’s KYLIN desktop DAC/amp combines ESS Sabre decoding, Class A amplification and premium components in a sleek all-in-one design. High-end headphone specialist Sendy Audio  has officially launched the Sendy Audio KYLIN , a new high-resolution desktop DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at listeners who want clean, transparent and natural sound  in a single compact system. Originally previewed at the renowned headphone event CanJam NYC 2025 , the KY

The new models replace Bluetooth as the primary wireless link with direct WiFi streaming — while integrating R2R DAC technology directly inside the earcups. High-end headphone specialist HiFiMAN  has introduced two of the most unconventional wireless headphones in recent memory: the HiFiMAN HE1000 WiFi  and the HiFiMAN Arya WiFi . Unlike most wireless headphones that rely primarily on Bluetooth, these new models use direct WiFi audio transmission , allowing listeners to strea

The Brooklyn audio specialist expands its premium Signature lineup with a new open-back model designed for effortless, fatigue-free listening. American headphone maker Grado Labs  has unveiled the Grado Signature S550 , the newest addition to its high-end Signature Series. Positioned as a more relaxed-sounding alternative within the lineup, the S550 aims to deliver warmth, openness and clarity  while maintaining the speed and detail that have long defined the brand’s signatur

With redesigned bass control, tube-inspired tonality and expanded spatial processing, Ferrum’s latest WANDLA update puts unprecedented sound customization into the hands of audiophiles. High-end audio specialist Ferrum Audio  has unveiled the Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 , the latest evolution of its acclaimed DAC/preamplifier platform. Building on the success of the award-winning WANDLA — recognized by the EISA  — the new GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 introduces major

With walnut cabinetry, cutting-edge DAC tech and modern streaming support, Leak’s first-ever network player blends vintage charm with ultra-resolution digital performance. The legendary British hi-fi brand Leak  has officially stepped into the world of modern streaming with the launch of its first dedicated network player: the Leak TruStream . Combining state-of-the-art digital audio technology  with the brand’s unmistakable mid-century aesthetic, the TruStream aims to bridge

From a pure Class A amplifier to a next-gen R2R flagship and even a gaming-focused amp, FiiO’s 2026 desktop lineup reveals a brand balancing nostalgia, engineering reality and market expansion. In the latest update from company founder James, FiiO  outlined its 2026 plans for desktop DACs and headphone amplifiers — and started with a surprisingly candid discussion about product lifecycles. Why Audio Gear Can’t Stay the Same Forever Users often complain about rapid product upd

With K2HD processing, upgraded power stages and next-gen streaming, iFi’s latest trio aims to modernize legacy systems without sacrificing musicality. British audio specialist iFi Audio  has unveiled three new components designed to push its NEO and ZEN ranges forward: iFi NEO iDSD 3 iFi NEO Stream 3 iFi ZEN Stream 3 Together, they’re positioned as a way to bring ultra-resolution streaming and modern digital refinement into both new and existing hi-fi systems — especially old

Upgraded aluminium diaphragm driver, handcrafted wooden earcups, and enhanced comfort — the SV021 Pro builds on a fan favourite and sharpens it for 2026. SIVGA has officially unveiled the SIVGA SV021 Pro , the long-awaited successor to its well-loved SV021 closed-back headphone. And rather than reinventing the formula, the brand has chosen to refine it — carefully upgrading materials, tuning, and engineering while preserving the musical balance that made the original such a s

The DX340 Titanium keeps the same audiophile firepower — but wraps it in CNC-milled titanium and subtle refinements that push it deeper into luxury territory. Just over a year after launching its flagship DX340 digital audio player, iBasso  is back with a refined — and more exclusive — version. Meet the iBasso DX340 Titanium Edition . The original DX340 debuted as a $1,999 portable powerhouse aimed squarely at audiophiles who wanted something their smartphones simply couldn’t

With a new 10-inch hybrid tonearm, balanced output, and premium materials throughout, the Debut Reference 10 pushes Pro-Ject’s best-selling line firmly into high-end territory. For years, the Debut range has been the foundation of Pro-Ject’s success. It’s the turntable series that made European-built vinyl playback accessible to a wider audience — simple, musical, and relatively affordable. Now, with the Pro-Ject Debut Reference 10 , the Austrian brand is aiming higher. This

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

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

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

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

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

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

BluOS brains, British engineering, and a promise of “breathtaking musicality” – Roksan’s new flagship separates aim straight at the modern audiophile sweet spot. Roksan is turning up the heat in the high-end amplifier market with the launch of two new reference components: the Caspian 4G Streaming Pre-Amplifier  and the Caspian 4G Power Amplifier . Together, they complete the top tier of the brand’s latest Caspian Series 4G lineup and signal Roksan’s clearest statement yet in

Seven new speakers, trickle-down tech from DALI’s flagships, and the quiet retirement of the beloved Oberon range A Bold New Chapter for DALI — and the End of an Era DALI is on a roll. Fresh off the launch of its ultra-affordable, five-star Kupid  bookshelf speakers, the Danish loudspeaker specialist has unveiled something far more consequential: the Sonik series , a brand-new, budget-focused speaker lineup that quietly replaces the much-loved Oberon range . For many audiophi

Three active standmount loudspeakers. Built-in streaming. Serious power. Cambridge’s boldest move yet lands in 2026. A Surprise Move from a Very Familiar Name Cambridge Audio has started 2026 with an unexpected pivot—one that could reshape how many listeners build their hi-fi systems. Known primarily for amplifiers, DACs and streamers, the British brand has now stepped decisively into active loudspeakers  with the launch of its new L/R Series . The lineup consists of three mo

Launched at CES 2026, the new Muse Y-50 and Y-40 mark a bold new chapter for Onkyo, capped by a stunning limited-edition anniversary flagship. Eight Decades In, Onkyo Starts a New Era Onkyo is entering 2026 with confidence—and ambition. As the legendary Japanese audio brand celebrates its 80th anniversary , it has unveiled an entirely new product line at CES that signals not just a celebration of the past, but a clear vision for the future. Meet the Onkyo Muse series : a pair

Inspired by a £10,000 flagship, engineered with nuvistor tubes, and built to be “a phono stage without limitation.” A New Heavyweight Joins the Nu-Vista Line Musical Fidelity has expanded its reference-grade Nu-Vista range with the launch of the Nu-Vista Vinyl S , a high-end phono stage priced at £5499 . Positioned as the more accessible counterpart to the £9999 Nu-Vista Vinyl 2 , it brings the same nuvistor tube DNA into a smaller, more streamlined chassis—without diluting t

A true DSD transport, a 212-resistor R2R ladder, a tube stage, and engineering heft rarely seen in the streaming era. SACD in 2025: A Format That Refuses to Die If you told someone in 2005 that SACD would still be alive two decades later, they’d have laughed. And yet, here we are: audiophiles buying premium SACD transports , labels reissuing DSD masters, and companies like Shanling treating the format with fresh reverence. The new Shanling SCD3.3 ($3,990)  is the latest proof

Chord’s Mojo 2 Levels Up: New 4.4mm Output & USB-C Charging Arrive — Signature Sound Remains Untouched A Small Upgrade With Big Practical Gains Chord Electronics has quietly refreshed its hugely popular Mojo 2  DAC/amp, adding two long-requested features: A 4.4mm balanced headphone output USB-C charging Despite these changes, the company is keeping the same name and the same price: £395 / $650 / AU$799 . This is not a “Mojo 3” — it’s the Mojo 2 refined for 2025. Why These Cha

Florence moves from Renaissance art to high-end digital audio with a bold, dual-DAC statement piece. From Michelangelo to Music Streaming Florence has given the world Renaissance masters , Michelangelo’s David , and even the piano . Now, the Tuscan capital is exporting something far more digital: Volumio  — the boutique software company behind VolumioOS , beloved since 2013 by Raspberry Pi tinkerers and serious audiophiles alike. Its newest creation, the Volumio Primo Plus ,