Top Stories
MSB Technology The Discrete DAC - D/A Converter.
The Discrete DAC is MSB's smallest D/A converter, but that doesn't mean many things on absolute terms. What we are dealing with here is a design based on their custom conversion approach, featuring a top-quality construction and, in our DUT configuration, is accompanied by a smart USB line isolation system. This is digital audio at its best!
S.M.S.L DO100 - HO100 - DAC/USB DAC - Headphone Amplifier.
The pair of devices we review here are far more than just a sign of our times, which constantly require better systems for audio reproduction through headphones. It is a case study on how modern devices should be designed when aiming for the best possible value-for-money performance.
hARt Lab Tune Three - Power Amplifier.
In our first contact with a new manufacturer from Greece, we've had the opportunity to review a power amplifier that stands out, not only with its build quality but with its architecture and ideas behind it. In the field of high-performance audio, there is nothing more attractive than some out-of-the-box ideas!
News & Industry Update
Focal announced Vestia, their new line of high-fidelity loudspeakers.
Focal expanded their collection of home loudspeakers with Vestia. This line comprises five models and has been designed for high-quality music enjoyment and home cinema experiences, delivered by Focal’s renowned savoir-faire in acoustics.
Musical Fidelity adds two more models in their multichannel power amp series.
Following the introduction of the M6x 250.7 power amplifier, their first-ever home theater multichannel design, Musical fidelity added two more models in the series, the 250.5 and the 250.11, to support systems of 5 and 11 channels accordingly.
Pro-Ject's Stereo Box S3 BT: The Stereo Box S3 – plus a wireless input.
Pro-Ject's compact, personal stereo integrated amplifier now includes Bluetooth connectivity. The company have managed to squeeze even more power output into the compact chassis, while a Bluetooth input allows to choose the music from the comfort of your favorite listening chair.
JBL expands soundbar line-up with five new options featuring 3D and Dolby Atmos.
JBL’s newest feature-packed soundbar series includes the Bar 1300X, Bar 1000, Bar 700, Bar 500 and Bar 300, elevating the audio experience of a movie theater and delivering it to the living room with Dolby Atmos and a variety of options including DTS:X 3D, detachable wireless surround speakers and subwoofers.
EarMen announced the ST-Amp DAC/Headphone amplifier.
EarMen announced the launch of their latest device: the ST-Amp, a fully balanced desktop headphone amplifier with a preamp option and integrated DAC, that finally enables the audiophiles to have everything they will ever need in just one device.
RCM: A new record-cleaning machine that doesn‘t break the bank!
The Rekkord RCM is a simple but powerful record-cleaning machine. This record cleaner is made in Europe from quality materials and gives your record collection the care it deserves while still have enough cash to spend on vinyl!
Harman/JBL unveiled the Spinner Bluetooth turntable.
JBL announced the new Spinner BT turntable, offering a vibrant design and Bluetooth connectivity allowing listeners to enjoy their records wirelessly without sacrificing audio quality.
Xavian introduced the Aria loudspeaker.
The new star of the Armonia range, Aria is nestled in classic shapes and features select Danish Scan-Speak drivers, characterized by low distortion and high sensitivity, to deliver the best performance at low and medium volumes.
Equipment Reviews...
Naxatras III Magnetic Fidelity LP/Duplication Master: Searching for the Lost (Analogue) Sound.
Comparatively listening to the Naxatras III audiophile vinyl cut and the tape directly transferred from the master, as edited by engineer Jesus Agnew and Magnetic Fidelity, leads to the appreciation of the analog sound values, when the process is, indeed, impeccable. But, at the same time, the prerequisites are far from simple, both in the recording/transfer and the playback chain. For us, this was a research project that, probably, took too long but it was worth every minute spent!
Review: ATC SCM 19 Loudspeaker.
SCM19, ATC's entry level "Hi-Fi" series top stand-mount model, proved to be one of the best compact loudspeakers you can buy in this price range, especially if what you are looking for is some real high fidelity behavior. How did they manage this? Read the review to find out…
