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Métronome Technologie Le Player 4+ DAC / CD
Player Review
The persistence of memory.
Review By Maurice Jeffries
In
an act of musical and marketplace bravery, the esteemed French electronics firm
Métronome Technologie has taken the bold step of offering music lovers still
wed to physical media a device many long ago consigned to the dustbin of audio
history: a dedicated CD player. When Toronto, Canada-based audio distributor /
dealer Wynn Wong of Wynn Audio and our Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin
contacted to gauge my interest in reviewing Metronome Technology Le Player 4+ CD
player / DAC, I thought that they both must be crazy. What sane manufacturer
would dare to offer a dedicated (and pricey) CD player in a market dominated by
digital servers, streamers, music streaming services, and outboard DACs to that
most fickle of consumers, the modern audiophile? Several factors ultimately compelled a "yes" from
me. First, Wynn Wong has superb taste in components and music (and is a bloody
nice guy to boot).
--->
Métronome Technologie Le Player 4+ DAC / CD Player Review.
Audeze LCD-R Headphones Plus Schiit Jotunheim-A
Amplifier Review
Here's a killer 1-2 combination that will have you smiling the entire time.
Review By Peter Pialis
When
I first heard of Audeze's first foray into a headphone utilizing ribbon drivers,
my heart jumped. Traditionally a pioneer in the world of planar magnetic
headphones, the possibility of hearing what this world-class producer of
personal audio could do with ribbon drivers.... I still very much put the LCD-4
/ LCD-4z in my personal "Top 5 Headphones of All Time", but the ability to
experience a brand new technology within the ecosystem of the Audeze experience
was something that really just appealed to me. Ribbon-based drivers usually end
up with very low impedance headphones and the LCD-R are no different. Coming in
at a very low 2 Ohms, these headphones required a special dedicated headphone
amplifier that can handle extremely low impedance. So the folks at Audeze and Schiit Audio put their heads
together for this venture and came up with the Jotunheim-A amplifier.
--->
Audeze LCD-R Headphones Plus Schiit Jotunheim-A Amplifier Review.
Best High-End Audio Gear: Enjoy the
Music.com's Best Of 2026 Blue Note Awards
Honoring the finest audiophile components reviewed during the past year while celebrating breakthroughs in
high-fidelity audio innovation.
High-End Audio
Awards By Enjoy the Music.com
Enjoy the Music.com's
Best Of 2026 Blue Note Awards once again honors the standout achievements of audiophile manufacturers who continue to push the boundaries of
high-end audio and Hi-Res Audio immersive audio innovation. Now in our third decade, the
annual Blue Note Awards represent the culmination of thousands of hours spent evaluating
reference-level components and recognizing only those products that genuinely rise above the rest. Our Best Of
2026 Blue Note Award highlights the finest equipment we've reviewed over the past 12 months — the pieces that delivered exceptional performance, craftsmanship, and musical
engagement. Each recipient is selected only after extensive discussion and careful consideration by our team of seasoned reviewers. Year after year, we witness remarkable advancements across the industry — from analog
and amplification circuit refinement and vinyl playback innovation to cutting-edge DACs, loudspeaker
engineering, and beyond!
--->
Best High-End Audio Gear: Enjoy the Music.com's Best Of 2026 Blue Note
Awards.
ESS
SABRE ES9292PRO Sets New Benchmark For Ultra-High-End Audio Conversion
ESS Technology has introduced the SABRE ES9292PRO, a flagship SMART CODEC engineered to deliver the highest
audio conversion performance the company has ever achieved. This new device targets professional, automotive, and audiophile applications requiring uncompromising
electrical signal fidelity, advanced processing flexibility, and next-generation integration. The ES9292PRO builds on
ESS's Hyperstream IV architecture, combining premium ADC and DAC stages to achieve a True Dynamic Range of +128 dB (ADC) and +130 dB (DAC), alongside –118 dB THD+N performance. An integrated Clock Upsampler and patented Analog PLL work together to minimize jitter and preserve clock integrity, ensuring that conversion accuracy is maintained throughout the signal chain. These enhancements position the ES9292PRO as the
highest-fidelity immersive performance audio CODEC currently available from
ESS. To support modern audio workflows, the SMART CODEC incorporates ASP2 processors on both ADC and DAC paths, enabling designers to implement
multi-band PEQs, mixers, expanders, compressors, stereo widening....
---> ESS SABRE ES9292PRO Sets New Benchmark
For Ultra-High-End Audio Conversion. 
Capital Audiofest 2026 Set To Energize Audiophiles & Music Lovers With Three Days Of
High-End Audio Discovery
Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2026 will once again anchor the
Northeast's high-fidelity audio calendar as it arrives at the Hilton Rockville in Rockville, Maryland from November 13th through 15th marking its 16th year as one of the
region's most influential gatherings for premium home audio. What began as a local
meet-up has evolved into a nationally recognized showcase where enthusiasts, families, and industry insiders converge to explore the latest breakthroughs in
high-end audio sound and immersive listening experiences. This year's event reflects the
show's continued expansion, with a broader exhibitor roster and heightened interest from both veteran audiophiles and
first-time attendees. CAF's signature room-to-room listening format remains central to its appeal, offering visitors the chance to audition
cutting-edge loudspeakers, reference-grade amplifiers, DACs, turntables, and streaming systems across a wide spectrum of budgets and design philosophies.
---> Capital Audiofest 2026 Set To Energize Audiophiles & Music Lovers With Three Days Of High-End Audio Discovery.
hi-fi+ September 2026 High-End
Audio Magazine
Editorial: Science Of Serenity: How Music Lowers Stress, Heart Rate, & Blood
Pressure
Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Momentum Z
Waversa Systems WAMP2.7
Air Tight ATM-1E Valve Integrated
Chord Electronics Suzi/Suzi Pre Power Amp
Hegel H600 Integrated Amplifier
Advance Paris A10 Apex Integrated Amp
Rega Aos MC Phono Stage
Musical Fidelity M5xiIntegrated Amp
Soulnote E-2 ver.2 Phono Stage
...And Much More!
---> hi-fi+
September 2026 High-End Audio Magazine.
Electronica 2026: Munich Set To Showcase The Future Of The
All-Electric Society
Electronica 2026 returns to Munich from November
10th through 13th, bringing together the global electronics industry for four days of innovation, strategy, and
next-generation technology. This year's theme — "Empowering the All Electric
Society" — underscores the event's focus on the electronic systems, semiconductors, sensors, embedded platforms,
and immersive audio/video, that will drive future advancements in mobility, energy, and
AI. Organizers emphasize that modern electronics form the backbone of intelligent applications across every sector, especially as AI adoption accelerates worldwide. A major storyline for 2026 is the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence across industrial and consumer-based
electronic systems. From Edge AI to AIoT, consumer electronics, machine learning, exhibitors will highlight how hardware, software, and connectivity must work seamlessly to meet growing demands for computing power, energy efficiency,
home electronics, and cyber resilience.
---> Electronica 2026: Munich Set To Showcase The Future Of The
All-Electric Society. 
World Premiere Review!
AGD Forte Review: Inside the Dual-Mono GaN Amplifier
Redefining High-End Audio Performance Learn how
AGD's latest GaN-based
dual-mono design delivers stunning detail, effortless power, and true audiophile reference-grade
musicality.
Review By Brett Rudolph
AGD Productions is a company that
focuses on bringing out the best possible sound using whatever technology is
available. Alberto Guerra founded the company with this goal and a commitment to
creating the most innovative products possible, without compromise. His work
with GaN tube technology has brought him accolades and made him a leader in the
audiophile world. Recently, I had the opportunity to do the world premiere
review of AGD's Allegro. The newest addition to their product offerings
represented their first integrated amplifier. It built on their already
world-class amplifiers and added an R-2R DAC, streamer, and phono stage. Towards
the end of the review, Alberto approached me and asked if I would be interested
in reviewing their stand-alone AGD Forte. My usual response would be to humbly decline, as it is hard to
review products from the same company. The similarities between these two
products make it even more difficult to keep them straight and to write about
them.
--->
AGD Forte Review: Inside the Dual-Mono GaN Amplifier.
Nagra PREAMP II-S Review: Swiss Reference Vacuum Tube Engineering Unveiled
First expert listen to Nagra's tube preamplifier with their eye-candy
Modulometer.
Review By Tom Lyle
This review
features Nagra's latest preamplifier, the Preamp II-S. I previously had the
opportunity to review two other Nagra products for Enjoy the Music.com.
My first experience with their Swiss-made Nagra components came during my 2018
review of the Nagra Classic Preamp. Many audiophiles are aware that Nagra has spent
75 years
designing and manufacturing "indestructible, Swiss-engineered, portable, and
industry-standard" reel-to-reel tape recorders. Their first model was launched
in 1953, and by the late 1950s, these recorders had gained considerable
popularity. Nagra began designing high-end audio components in 1997. In the past, I frequently saw journalists and engineers using
Nagra reel-to-reel recorders at music events. These machines were trusted and
gave the appearance that they were built to last. Anyone familiar with location
recording understands the importance of having reliable, high-quality portable
recorders. It's no surprise that music enthusiasts appreciate Nagra's
high-end audio gear for its sonic quality, dependability, and distinctive
aesthetics.
--->
Nagra PREAMP II-S Review: Swiss Reference Vacuum Tube Engineering
Unveiled.
World Premiere Review!
Kimber Kable NEO-HB & NEO-CU Review: Next-Generation
High-Fidelity Audio Cables That Transform System Performance
Inside Kimber Kable's New hybrid NEO Series: Real-world listening tests, system impact, and why these reference cables
may redefine what's possible in high-end audio.
Review By Brett Rudolph
Kimber Kable is one of the few cable companies that have
remained a leader through various upheavals in the audiophile world. This is a
substantial achievement, considering that throughout the industry's history,
one of the longest and perhaps most heated debates has been the acceptance and
validity of using high-quality audiophile-grade cabling. Though it would be
wonderful to resolve this debate forever, it is not entirely certain that it is
even possible. However, when the opportunity to review the Kimber Kable
presented itself, it was accepted without hesitation. Founded by Ray Kimber in 1979, Kimber Kable offers a
formidable selection of cables across various price points and materials. These
purpose-built cables are built to exacting standards and fit across various
product series, making them easier to understand. Customers can select cables
from a single range or mix and match, depending on their system specifications,
allowing their system to reach its full potential within a budget they can
afford.
--->
Kimber Kable NEO-HB & NEO-CU Review: Next-Generation High-Fidelity Audio Cables That Transform System
Performance.
Audio Research I/70 Fully Loaded Integrated Vacuum Tube
Amplifier Reviewed
In-depth review of Audio Research's
fully-loaded I/70 integrated stereo unit including the
optional Hi-Res Audio DAC and MM/MC phono stage: performance, design, and reference-level listening notes.
Review By Ron Nagle
I can trace my interest in high-end audio back to the 1970s, long before the
internet, and the 1995 launch of Enjoy the Music.com. Before we discuss
today's review of Audio Research's impressive I/70 vacuum tube integrated
amplifier, let us step back to the very beginnings. My first serious Audio
Research audio components, as back then, I recall vacuum tubes versus
transistors controversy was still raging on. That was when some audio wags
predicted the death of vacuum tube audio. I credit Audio Research and the late
Harry Pearson as the two stalwarts that fended off the Japanese avalanche of
cheaper transistor-powered audio components at the time. And that was the time when the shifting public interest was to
transistor audio. Audio Research Corporation (ARC) was founded by William Zane
Johnson in 1970 and was originally located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They are
one of the longest U.S. companies of vacuum tube-powered high-end audio
equipment for audiophiles and music lovers still in operation.
--->
Audio Research I/70 Fully Loaded Integrated Vacuum Tube Amplifier Reviewed.
Geshelli Labs TORC DAC Review: Does This Value-Priced Compact DAC Deliver Big-League Sound?
We explore how the bargain-priced TORC DAC delivers performance that easily exceeds expectations.
Review By Tom Lyle
Over
the years, I have encountered many audiophiles who are unwilling to go into debt
or spend all their money on high-end audio components or systems. While some of
these individuals are new to high-end audio, others are more experienced, yet
both groups consistently assemble impressive audio systems. What these
audiophiles share is their love of music and the pursuit of sound quality, which
is far superior to that of mass-market audio gear found at Big Box Stores. For
music lovers and audiophiles who are not wealthy, or simply prefer not to
splurge on expensive gear, they, instead, piece together their setups using
pre-owned equipment, budget-friendly components, or both. If one of these types of audiophiles asked me for a
recommendation for an affordable, excellent-sounding DAC... read on. Geshelli Labs designs and manufactures DACs and headphone
amplifiers, and is a family business founded by husband-and-wife team Geno and
Sherri Biscegliana.
---> Geshelli Labs TORC DAC Review: Does This Value-Priced Compact DAC Deliver Big-League
Sound?
Lyngdorf TDAI-2210 Review — Can This One Box Replace Your Streamer, DAC, And Amp?
A compact, room-correcting, streamer, Hi-Res Audio DAC, and stereo amplifier for serious music lovers,
audiophiles, and tech geeks.
Review By Dwayne Carter
Some
of the best gear in my house has shown up at the worst possible moments. A
Bryston amplifier I once reviewed arrived the same week my refrigerator quit. A
Pass Labs piece landed on my doorstep about an hour after I'd injured my back,
lifting an amplifier I should not have been lifting alone. So, when the
Lyngdorf TDAI-2210 streaming amplifier turned up on a quiet Tuesday
afternoon, I should have suspected the universe was about to charge me for the
privilege. And it did. This afternoon, I cleared my schedule for the Lyngdorf
TDAI-2210. The box glared at me from across the room. I would wait no longer. The unboxing process was relatively easy. The Lyngdorf
TDAI-2210 arrived in a heavy box. Upon opening, I found the unit nicely packed
and protected. Once everything was unboxed, the microphone stand's quality
caught me off guard. This serious microphone stand is easily worth a couple of
hundred dollars.
--->
Lyngdorf TDAI-2210 Review — Can This One Box Replace Your Streamer, DAC, And
Amp?
Discover more hi-fi reviews and expert articles within our Review Magazine.
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High-End Audiophile Reviews & Insights
