Top Stories
On Location: Agnew Analog Reference Type 612 & Type 602 Mastering Lathe
We had the opportunity to closely look at the first new record-cutting machine for vinyl discs in many years. It has been designed and manufactured in Greece and in Scotland, by Jesus Agnew of Agnew Analog Reference Instruments, and it has made significant advances compared to traditional cutting lathes.
Audio Research I/50 - Integrated amplifier
This is a modern tube-based integrated amplifier from a manufacturer that has created its own legend and has written many of the pages in the history of high fidelity. We conduct an exhaustive test and convey our impressions.
Assos Woodworking Model 1- Equipment Rack
The fundamental problem of "which device should I buy" is, of course, the main reason you are reading everything we write here. However, the question of "where I will place it" is far from negligible. Aesthetic concerns, size, usability, and sound quality all subtly come into play and can potentially undermine an otherwise sound choice. In this regard, Assos Woodworking has some very interesting things to say.
News & Industry Update
Chord announced 2026 availability for the Quartet upscaler and the Ultima Phonostage.
British amplification and digital audio specialist, Chord Electronics, announced the availability of two highly anticipated flagship products: the Quartet digital upscaler and the Ultima Phonostage., the later formally unveiled last year.
OTTA Mandolin – the first cartridge model from a new brand.
OTTA (Over The Top Analogue) has announced their first MC cartridge, the OTTA Mandolin. This is a 0.35mV cross-coil design, featuring elliptical stylus and a ruby cantilever.
ELAC introduced NAVA100 portable Bluetooth speaker.
ELAC recently announced the launch of the NAVA100, a portable Bluetooth speaker that brings 100 years of sound innovation into a compact, modern form.
NAD introduced C 3030 and C 3030S integrated amplifiers.
NAD electronics announced the launch of two new stereo integrated amplifiers, NAD C 3030 and NAD C 3030S. Inspired by NAD’s iconic designs of the past and the global success of the NAD C 3050 anniversary-edition amplifier, these new models pair vintage aesthetics with modern Hi-Fi performance and connectivity.
Nagra introduces Series II with the Preamp II-S.
Audio Technology Switzerland announced the launch of Series II, a new product family that bridges the gap between their Classic and HD ranges. The first model in this new line, the Preamp II-S, marks both a return to Nagra’s roots and a forward-looking evolution in design, engineering, and musical performance.
Mark the date: Audio Video Show Prague takes place on March 20–21, 2026.
Audio Video Show Prague 2026, the largest high-end audio and video exhibition in the Czech Republic, takes place on March 20–21, at the Hotel Diplomat Prague. Visitors can expect an exceptionally diverse presentation of current technologies – from state-of-the-art video solutions, through luxury soundbars and modern living-room–friendly systems, to an extensive headphone section.
MoFi unveiled the SourcePoint V10 Master Edition.
The SourcePoint?V10 Master Edition is a ground-up evolution of MoFi's SourcePoint?10 platform, housed in a resonance-free, multi-chambered cabinet and offering thunderous low-end extension, lifelike vocal presence, and crystal-clear highs, the company says.
Meze Audio announced the Strada.
Meet the Strada - a pair of closed-back dynamic headphones crafted for tonal balance and musical intimacy, says Meze. With its full-bodied sound, excellent noise isolation, and natural sense of space, the Strada delivers a harmonious acoustic experience where detail, texture, and dynamics come through with effortless precision.
Equipment Reviews...
MoFi Master Phono - Phono Preamplifier
MoFi keeps moving forward in the electronics world with careful but always interesting steps. Since 2023, their lineup of phono preamps has gained its flagship model—the MasterPhono. This is the brainchild of Peter Madnick and is designed for serious vinyl lovers.
DS Audio ES-001 - Eccentricity detection Stabilizer
What is an LP? A flat vinyl disc with a hole in the middle, you say. That's what it is, if that's what you believe it is. But there are some things you need to know. Welcome to the world of esoteric analog paranoia and its corresponding exotic solutions…
