High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

  We invite you to join our social media pages and meet music lovers and audiophiles from all around the world. Like and follow our social media pages to chat with our reviewers, industry luminaries, and our loyal followers. Stay informed about the latest high-end audio news, audiophile events, and updates related to Enjoy the Music.com. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!

12 / 01 / 25

December's Holiday Soundtrack: Ultimate Gift Guides, Exclusive Reviews & Toronto + CAF 2025 Show Reports
Give better sounding gifts this holiday season thanks to our curated guides.
Enjoy the Music.com's December Holiday issue continues our 30th anniversary celebration with a curated mix of seasonal features, in-depth equipment reviews, and comprehensive show coverage from Toronto Audiofest and Capital Audiofest 2025. This issue combines expert holiday gift guides, thoughtful essays on the emotional and physical benefits of music, and historical retrospectives that invite readers to revisit top-rated gear and landmark articles from decades of high-end audio journalism. Expect more CAF 2025 coverage soon as we continue to track the latest trends and innovations in audio.

Featured reviews and buying advice include a world-premiere evaluation of the sculptural MC Audiotech TL-8 floorstanding loudspeakers, the compact Nirvana Audio Chronos Optimizer, and the value-focused Hegel H150 streaming amplifier, each tested for design, sonic signature, and real-world listening performance. We also cover practical upgrades like IsoAcoustics GAIA I Neo isolation feet and system tweaks across price ranges. With detailed show reports, demo impressions, trend analysis, and two curated Great Audiophile Gift guides, this December issue is both a definitive reference for serious audiophiles and a seasonal resource for holiday gift shoppers for their music lover. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!

Musick Hath Charms.... 
Why you really need your home audio sound system.
Article By Roger Skoff
Did you ever hear a quotation like "Music has power to charm the savage beast"? Although practically everybody has, and practically everybody guesses it to be by William Shakespeare, the real quote is actually "Musick hath charms to soothe a savage breast" and it was written (originally as "Musick has Charms to soothe a savage Breast, To soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.") by William Congreve as part of his tragic play The Mourning Bride, first performed in 1697. Although most people seem to get just about everything about the quotation (date, source, words) wrong, the fact is that it's far truer than many may think, and music may actually have real benefits for us as audiophiles. Besides just its hobby value, listening to music has actual physical benefits. Scientific research increasingly supports the idea that music has measurable healing effects—physically, emotionally, and neurologically.
---> Musick Hath Charms.... Why you really need your home audio sound system.

Toronto Audiofest 2025: Complete Show Coverage, Biggest Gear Reveals, And Best Demos
Canada's high-end audiophile premium audio / video equipment show.
The Toronto Audiofest 2025 unfolded over three immersive days, spotlighting high-end home audiophile gear, videophile equipment, modern immersive audio, and EARVANA—Canada's first and only dedicated headphone festival—within an expansive 8,000 sq ft showcase. Music lovers and audiophiles alike plugged in and demo'ed the newest in headphone and earphone technology, ranging from flagship over-ear designs to portable high-res in-ear monitors. With both general admission and industry badge options available, the event caters to casual enthusiasts and trade professionals seeking hands-on encounters with tomorrow's audio innovations. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive, and extremely extensive, Toronto Audiofest 2025 high-end audiophile / immersivephile show coverage is now online!
---> Toronto Audiofest 2025 Luxury Home Audio Show Report.

Inside Capital Audiofest 2025: Exclusive Show Report & Latest Gear
New high-end audio trends, top hi-fi gear, plus audiophile insights and cutting-edge innovations.
Welcome to Enjoy the Music.com's comprehensive Capital Audiofest 2025 show report. Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2025 is set to take place from November 14th to 16th at the Hilton Rockville in Maryland, continuing its legacy as the East Coast's largest and most beloved high-end audio show. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, offering three full days of immersive listening experiences, gear demos, and community engagement. Founded in 2010 by Gary Gill, CAF has grown from a grassroots gathering into a cornerstone of the North American audiophile calendar, drawing enthusiasts, engineers, and manufacturers from across the globe. Our Capital Audiofest 2025 show reports will be online during the event, with very exciting  expanded coverage afterwards!
---> Inside Capital Audiofest 2025: Exclusive Show Report & Latest Gear.

World Premiere Review!
Stunning Design And Mind-Blowing Bass: MC Audiotech TL-8 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
This sculptural speaker is a must-hear conversation starter for true music lovers.
Review By Bob Grossman
I have had the MC Audiotech TL-8 floorstanding loudspeakers within my home for the past two months, allowing me to experience them thoroughly, given my experience with many recordings in a variety of genres, as well as comparisons between CD and LP sources. As I sat in my living room writing for Enjoy the Music.com, I felt like I was out on the lawn enjoying a concert under the stars in Saratoga Springs, the Mann Music Center, or Bravo Vail outdoor theaters. Few people look for speakers that capture the unique sound of an outdoor performance. But my brother Michael pointed out that the Grateful Dead hated studio recording and rarely did it, instead preferring that fans enjoy live outdoor performances. Then Michael was captivated by the sound of the TL-8s speakers and said he felt transported back to San Francisco in the 1970s.
---> MC Audiotech TL-8 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review.

Nirvana Audio Chronos Optimizer Review: Big Sound In A Small Package
If you value sensational sound, the Chronos delivers delightful audio.
Review By Rick Becker
One of the reasons I like to visit every room at audio shows is the possibility of discovering a truly outstanding new product. That's exactly what happened when I ventured into the Nirvana Audio room on the 5th Floor at AXPONA 2025 this year. Here is what I wrote in Part 7 of my show report: The name Nirvana struck a chord because of the American rock band, but I couldn't picture any audio components with that brand name. When I entered the room and saw some familiar gear hosted by a pair of Asian gentlemen, I still could not connect the dots. As I took a seat during my show report for Enjoy the Music.com, among the others in the room, it became apparent that the room was dedicated to a comparison listening test. But what? Eventually, I realized the little dark item on the counter at the right edge of the photo was the Chronos Optimizer pictured on the scrim in front of the window.
---> Nirvana Audio Chronos Optimizer Review.

Luxury Sound That Won't Break the Bank: Hegel H150 Streaming Amplifier Review
A great value for audiophiles and a smart buy for music lovers.
Review By Paul Schumann
Last year, I was lucky enough to review the Hegel H400 Streamliner, an integrated amplifier with a built-in streamer. It was a well-designed piece of equipment that sounded great. When I was offered to review its smaller sibling, it was an easy yes for me. The H150 Streaming Amplifier is Hegel's newest integrated amplifier on loan here at Enjoy the Music.com. The very clever engineers nicknamed it "The Prodigy" because, while being an entry-level product, it is loaded with features normally found on more expensive units. Hegel's H150 Streaming Amplifier is quite a bit smaller than their H400, with a footprint of only 17" x 13.8" and weighing in at 21.4 lbs. This meant it easily fit within my stereo cabinet, and I didn't have to bust a gut to get it there. An added plus! It has the same elegant design as the H400, and the fit and finish are superb.
---> Hegel H150 Streaming Amplifier Review.

Looking Back At Enjoy the Music.com's 25 Years Of Service
As we also celebrate today... and the future.
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
When I initially realized 2020 would celebrate Enjoy the Music.com's past 25 years of being of service to the high-end audio / audiophile community, it brought a huge smile to my face. As one of the very first web-based sites online, there's quite a bit of history that was being made at the time. Back then virtually no print publication had a website. Yahoo was only a year old, while Google search engine would not appear online until three years later(!). Virtually no hi-fi print publication had a website back in 1995. Decades later, virtually every manufacturer and print publication has a web presence (and social media too!). Today, many enthusiasts within our hobby have their own web page, some of which are producing excellent articles and reviews too! As we're all in this together, Enjoy the Music.com is also celebrating decades of working with, and actively promoting, other magazines too! Please allow me to personally take this moment to thank both our longstanding, and newfound, global readers.
---> Looking Back At Enjoy the Music.com's 25 Years Of Service.

Kimber Kable Naked Interconnects Review
Let's go skinny dipping... with an impressive leap in cabling technology!
Review By Paul L. Schumann
Ok, we've all done it. We've swum in the water in our birthday suits. It may have been in a swimming pool, maybe in a lake or stream, maybe even in the ocean. I don't want to know your details, and I'm sure you don't want to know mine. But one way or another, we got naked outside and took the plunge.  And no matter the outcome, it was a memorable experience. Such as with the Kimber Kable Naked Interconnects. My familiarity with Kimber Kable goes back further than I like to admit. Back then I was still a novice to the world of high-end interconnects. It was 1997 and I just upgraded my CD player. When I got it home and plugged it into my system, my wife and I noticed that it didn't sound right. The tonal quality was pinched and it sounded nothing like it did in the showroom of the audio salon where I bought it. When I went back, they asked me what interconnects I was using.
---> Kimber Kable Naked Interconnects Review.

PureAudioProject Trio15 Horn1 Open Baffle Design Speaker Review
A trip down the rabbit hole.
Review By Paul L. Schumann
First of all, let me be totally upfront with you my dear readers, this is the first review I've written in a long time, so if I come off as an old curmudgeon, I apologize. In the business of high-end audio, the one constant is change. So when Steven asked me to review the Trio15 Horns, I knew I'd be in for a challenge. After so long, could I still use the reviewer part of my brain? Before you continue reading this, I would recommend you read Rick Becker's excellent review of the PureAudioProject Trio Horn1's sibling, the first generation of the Trio15 with TB driver. Rick does an excellent job of going through the assembly process of these early and more DIY speakers. I have to honestly say the Trio15 Horns that arrived at my humble abode were the latest generation, with Aluminum Frame and almost completely assembled. All I had to do is put in the horns, add capacitors to the crossovers, connect the drivers and was ready to go.
---> PureAudioProject Trio15 Horn1 Open Baffle Design Speaker Review.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

11 / 24 / 25

Chuck's Capital Audiofest 2025 Review: The Most Memorable Must-Hear System Demos And Stereo Setups
Inside CAF 2025's best demos with new gear, listening notes, and a few surprise standouts!
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Chuck Bruce
Capital Audiofest 2025 opened with an energetic pulse of innovation and craftsmanship, where manufacturers and boutique builders alike unveiled fresh takes on loudspeaker design, amplification, and source components. From compact two-way standmounts that surprised with full-range authority to sprawling open-baffle floorstanders that painted orchestral scale, the show offered a rare opportunity to hear how modern materials, refined crossovers, and careful cabinet engineering translate into musical realism. Attendees moved room to room, discovering bold new introductions—vacuum tube and solid-state amplification, steerable mid / tweeter loudspeaker modules, horn-loaded high-sensitivity designs—large mega-driver floorstanding loudspeakers... and the thoughtful system pairings that let each component reveal its strengths.
---> Chuck's Capital Audiofest 2025 Review: The Most Memorable Must-Hear System Demos And Stereo Setups.

11 / 21 / 25

UK To Make Reselling Concert Tickets For Profit Illegal
The UK government has announced plans to introduce legislation making it illegal to resell tickets for concerts, sports, theatre, comedy and other live events for more than their original face value, saying the move is designed to protect fans from inflated resale prices and "destroy the operating model of ticket touts". Under the proposed rules, secondary ticketing platforms would have a legal duty to monitor and enforce the cap on resale prices, limits would be placed on platform service fees, and individuals would be barred from selling more tickets than they were originally permitted to buy, measures aimed at curbing bot-driven bulk purchases that feed the secondary market. Government statements accompanying the announcement argued the measures would make resale tickets cheaper on average and return access to events for more fans, estimating collective annual savings for consumers and describing the policy as a fulfillment of promises to tackle extortionate touting practices. The announcement prompted immediate market and industry reaction, with shares of some resale platforms falling and major industry players and artists responding with a mix of support for fan protection and concern over impacts on legitimate secondary markets, while officials framed the push as a wider consumer-protection initiative by the current administration.

Legal experts warned the legislation could face challenges in court, particularly around enforcement against overseas platforms and the definition of "original price" for dynamically priced or package tickets. Industry groups representing venues and promoters said clarity would be needed on how exchanges can operate within the cap and whether compensation mechanisms will exist for legitimate resale when customers cannot attend. Consumer advocates welcomed the move but urged swift secondary legislation and clear guidance to avoid loopholes that could simply shift touting activity to private channels. Ministers indicated the bill will include powers for regulators to impose fines and demand data-sharing from ticketing firms, and that a phased implementation will give businesses time to adapt their systems. The government expects the measure to be tabled in the coming parliamentary session, with consultation on technical details to follow, leaving a likely implementation window of several months to a year if parliamentary time is secured. Officials said they will work with law enforcement and digital platforms to target automated buying tools and sophisticated resale networks.

11 / 20 / 25

World Premiere Review!
Audience Hidden Treasure In-Wall AC PowerCable And High Definition Wall Receptacle Review
Like a buried treasure that pays huge dividends in musical enjoyment!
Review By Rick Becker
If you're reading this review, you're either considering the installation of a dedicated line in what is likely your dedicated listening room or perhaps your home theater...  or maybe the video rig in your family room if you're seriously into watching TV. Or possibly, you've already installed a line and are wondering if this new Audience cable might be a worthwhile upgrade. In any case, I suspect you're already convinced that "everything matters" in high-end audio, especially cables. Keep reading. Audience is one of the most respected cable manufacturers and my ears perked up when I saw the ad for their new In-Wall AC cable. It's been 20 years since I reviewed Joe Skubinski's JPS Labs Power AC In-Wall cable. He's sold miles of it and "Big Red" has remained my reference dedicated line ever since. What's taken so long for the competition to arise?
---> Audience Hidden Treasure In-Wall AC PowerCable And High Definition Wall Receptacle Review.

Silent Angel Bonn N8 Data Switch Review
The Silent Angel Bonn N8 already has an audiophile following, but Martin Colloms says adding the Forester F1 power supply further levitates its performance.
Review By Martin Colloms
Thunder Data, the primary company responsible for the Silent Angel products was founded by two Chinese research engineers – Dr. Huang Jian and Chorus Chuang – specializing in both hardware and software development and engineering, and they have several patents in this field. Features of the already highly-regarded Bonn N8 eight-port Ethernet switch, which sells for £399, include fully balanced input and output transformers for every port, though it must be said that pretty much all such network connections are done this way even on low-cost Netgear switches. Further additions include damping pads on many internal components to reduce induced jitter from audio-related vibration, and the use of a low-noise high-stability reference clock to upgrade it to an audio-quality computer network switch. The eight ports are 100/1000Base-T gigabit specification, and the design includes a customized 'Silent Angel Noise Absorber' with two EMC filters for the main internal power supply and a further two for the clock generator circuit.
---> Silent Angel Bonn N8 Data Switch Review.

11 / 19 / 25

Florida International Audio Expo In February 2026
The eighth annual Florida International Audio Expo (FIAE) returns as the Southeast's most eagerly anticipated high-end audio gatherings, bringing together music lovers, audiophiles, immersivephiles, and industry professionals for a long weekend of listening, discovery, and community. FIAE show's 2026 edition continues the event's tradition of pairing commercial exhibits with live music and educational programming to give visitors both demonstrable gear experiences and context for what they hear. From Friday through Sunday, February 20th through 22nd (2026) at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel, ticketing options include single-day and multi-day passes to suit casual visitors, dedicated musicphiles, and audiophiles / immersivephiles alike. Organizer statements and press coverage emphasize that the 2026 event marks the Expo's eighth annual run, highlighting steady growth in both exhibitor participation and room counts; this expansion has translated into more than 100 exciting exhibit spaces that let music lovers compare loudspeakers, electronics, vinyl LP turntable systems, stereo / immersive headphones, cabling, and tweaks under real listening conditions.

That scale also attracts international and regional brands showing both new flagship components and specialty boutique products. The Florida International Audio Expo 2026 floor experience blends formal demo rooms with informal listening lounges. Step outside and enjoy special car-audio presence, thanks to IASCA (International Auto Sound Challenge Association), creating a cross-section of audio culture where home hi-fi enthusiasts can meet custom installers, aftermarket specialists, and accessory makers all in one place. Many exhibitors staff their rooms with designers and product specialists so visitors can ask technical questions and hear how products perform at reference levels. Enjoy the Music.com's highly-anticipated, and extensive, Florida International Audio Expo (FIAE) 2026 show coverage will be online during the event.

11 / 17 / 25

Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report Celebrating Craft, Sound, & Art Of Audio: Photofest 5
Next-level visual storytelling of high-end audio gear and audiophile room setups.
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Brett And Dylan Rudolph
Within Brett and Dylan Rudolph's Photofest 5, they elevate the visual narrative you loved within Photofest 4 by expanding beyond single moments into immersive visuals and mini-features that feature the latest hi-fi equipment. This series of pics pairs Brett and Dylan Rudolf's unmistakable photojournalism with fresh angles and narrative sequencing that show how a component lives within a home. Exhibitors have finalized their placement trials and their small adjustments that turn good sound into unforgettable listening. These photographs from the Capital Audiofest 2025 high-end audio event showcase how finishes, proportions, and placement interact with real rooms. From hand-finishing, candid frames, and the technicians / designers whose choices shape tone and presence, Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Photofest 5 emphasizes process photography... and the human gestures behind final products. We want our extensive worldwide readers helping us celebrate our very special 30th Anniversary this year to gain an appreciation not just for the finished component, but for the craft and decisions that define its character.
---> Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report Celebrating Craft, Sound, & Art Of Audio: Photofest 5.

11 / 16 / 25

Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 3
Great gear, delightful design, and special hi-fi highlights of CAF 2025.
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Brett And Dylan Rudolph
Within Brett and Dylan's Photofest 3, they dig deep into the visuals: photo impressions from a variety of standout rooms and stereo system demos, where home audio gear moves with good looks and sound to deliver memorable musicality and visual excellence. These photos give you a glorious sense of how systems fit into your lifestyle in context within a listening room. These snapshots capture the visually artistic character and highlight which combinations you love. Within Enjoy the Music.com's extensive Photofest Part 3, we spotlight moments that defined the weekend here at Capital Audiofest 2025. Both designers and dealers are here at CAF 2025 showcasing newly stocked lines that reveal trends and possible future directions of high-end audio. From handcrafted home audio loudspeakers to the latest in state-of-the-art Hi-Res Audio DACS, attendees could see, feel, and hear these amazing sound systems.
---> Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 3.

Audiophile Craft And High-End Audio Equipment
Visual Stories From Capital Audiofest 2025: Photofest 4
From loudspeaker finish to turntable fanfare, our exclusive photofests feature the exciting visual pulse of CAF 2025!
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Brett And Dylan Rudolph
Our exclusive Photofest 4 steps into snapshots to tell richer stories — close-ups of craftsmanship, candid moments, and sequence shots that show setups of the world's finest home audio equipment. Enjoy the Music.com's impactful images, thanks to our photojournalist and reviewer Brett Rudolf and his son Dylan, which emphasize tactile details such as hand-applied finishes, room treatments, and the human scale that makes high-end audio feel approachable and welcome into your luxury home. Enjoy the Music.com's Photofest 4 highlights focus on demos and pairing visuals with standout components. Expect portraits of breakthrough products, side-by-side comparisons that reveal aesthetic and acoustic choices, and images that may give you hints which systems deliver the most emotional impact for your favorite musical styles. Photofest 4 also points forward: curated companies to watch, teasers for upcoming in-depth reviews, and visual guides for recreating specific room looks and sound.
---> Audiophile Craft And High-End Audio Equipment Visual Stories From Capital Audiofest 2025: Photofest 4.

11 / 15 / 25

Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 1
A picture-rich CAF 2025 high-end audiophile show coverage.
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Brett And Dylan Rudolph
Enjoy the Music.com's Capital Audiofest 2025 high-end audio show report photofest gallery, captured by photojournalist and reviewer Brett Rudolph, delivers an immersive recap of various audiophile sound systems. The piece blends photog observations with a lively visual narrative, giving readers a take on standout gear and a sprawling Photofest of scenes that convey the show's energy. Brett Rudolph's coverage guides readers through the event held at the Twinbrook Hilton, highlighting trends in high-end audio, notable product debuts, and memorable demonstrations. Part 1 of Brett's extensive report balances technical impressions with accessible images so enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike can appreciate what made Capital Audiofest 2025 noteworthy. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Photofest gallery is a focal point of the feature, offering many photos that document rooms and luxurious consumer electronics equipment in detail. His images serve as both a visual archive and an editorial complement.
---> Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 1.

Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 2
CAF 2025: See more of high-end audio's most memorable scenes this weekend.
Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Brett And Dylan Rudolph
Enjoy the Music.com's Capital Audiofest 2025 Photofest gallery, captured by photojournalist and reviewer Brett Rudolph and his son Dylan, plunges readers into the visual heart of the Twinbrook Hilton event. Rudolph's images focus on the interplay of form and function—sleek loudspeaker lines, glowing tube amplifiers, and the intimate staging of listening rooms—while his captions and short observations point out the moments that mattered: demos that drew crowds, product debuts with surprising polish, and room setups that married acoustic sense with aesthetic flair. While our CAF 2025 Photofest Part 1 featured many great photos from the incredible audiophile and music lover event, within Part 2, we lean into atmosphere and continue letting photographs tell much of the story. The gallery sequences move from wide room shots that convey scale and energy to tight detail frames that showcase build quality, finishes, and component design.
---> Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report: Photofest 2.

11 / 14 / 25

audioXpress' December 2025 Issue
Editorial: We Don't Want You To Miss Out
Breaking Boundaries In Wireless Audio
Enhancing Critical Communications: AI Voice Processing
A Guide For Developers Developing And Testing Bluetooth
Distributed Mode Loudspeaker Technology And "Invisible Speakers"
Cleer ARC 3 Open Wireless Earbuds With Noise Cancelling
Total Dynamic Distortion
Danville Signal dspNexus 2/8 Part 2—Listening Experiences
Why DIY When You Can Buy?
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "And just like that, our last issue of 2025 was sent to the printers —yes, we are still doing print and we have decided to keep doing it until we find a better way to serve the same readers who are gladly paying to read this publication in paper. We don't want anyone to miss out. Our increased focus on audio product development and design has been recognized as a unique, valuable resource, serving a wider audience than ever—evenly spread globally. The only thing we can do is make it easy for our readers to get access and read the way they like. Not even the largest media organizations have found the "magical" formula to make magazines available in other ways. Magazines, with their thoughtful layout, carefully reviewed content, and attractive graphical design, are still the highest form of periodical publications, offering the most consistent form of disseminating knowledge."
---> audioXpress December 2025 Issue.

This Weekend: Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report
New high-end audio trends, top hi-fi gear, plus audiophile insights and cutting-edge innovations.
Welcome to Enjoy the Music.com's comprehensive Capital Audiofest 2025 show report. Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2025 is set to take place from November 14th to 16th at the Hilton Rockville in Maryland, continuing its legacy as the East Coast's largest and most beloved high-end audio show. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, offering three full days of immersive listening experiences, gear demos, and community engagement. Founded in 2010 by Gary Gill, CAF has grown from a grassroots gathering into a cornerstone of the North American audiophile calendar, drawing enthusiasts, engineers, and manufacturers from across the globe. Our Capital Audiofest 2025 show reports will be online during the event, with very exciting  expanded coverage afterwards!
---> Inside Capital Audiofest 2025: Exclusive Show Report & Latest Gear.

11 / 13 / 25

World Premiere Review
Siltech Master Crown Cables Review
A first listen to the paragon in today's world of connectology.
Review By Greg Weaver
During the third week in June, I was invited to attend a limited press event in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The event was sponsored by Monarch Systems, based in Englewood, CO, Siltech's US Importer, to introduce and promote the launch of Siltech's new flagship line of cables, Master Crown. I reported on that event here, at Enjoy the Music.com, on June 29th, with Siltech Launches Master Crown Cables. I also provided coverage on my audio analyst YouTube channel, with E181: Siltech's Master Crown Cable, on June 30, 2024 (video is near the bottom of this review). The company was founded with the inspired efforts of two music students, Hans de Ligt and Michel de Goey. These two were exploring the fabrication of cables, not by chance, luck, or intuition, but by applying science and metallurgical knowledge.
---> Siltech Master Crown Cables Review.

Jadis DA88S MkII Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier Review
The ultimate music machine.
Review By Dr. Jules Coleman
Too often, I have been guilty of 'burying the lead.' Not this time: the Jadis DA88S MkII integrated amplifier is the most musically convincing and enjoyable vacuum tube stereo integrated amplifier I have ever experienced – in my home or elsewhere. From the moment it was installed in my system until the moment shippers were summoned to remove it, this handsome piece of kit brought joy and fulfillment to my listening experience that had eluded me since my decade-long love affair with various Shindo-centered reference systems fell victim to life's often unforeseeable and unwelcome interventions. At different times my Shindo systems were anchored by the (no longer in production) Sinhonia push / pull monoblocks featuring the F2 output tube as well as the ne plus ultra 300B Ltd monoblocks. The former offered a dynamic realism that the 300B Ltd could not match, while the latter offered a texture, color, and density that was in equal measure beguiling and bewitching.
---> Jadis DA88S MkII Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier Review.

11 / 11 / 25

International High-End Audio Shows This Weekend
A cluster of international (non-U.S.) premier hi-fi events will simultaneously open their doors on November 15th through 16th (2025), drawing audiophiles and industry professionals to four European and Asian capitals. Rome Hi-Fidelity returns to the Melià Hotel Congress Centre in Milan with a curated program promoted by importers and manufacturers showcasing the latest in high-end audio and video for listeners and sellers. In Athens, the HXOS EIKONA Show at the Wyndham Grand brings the audio/visual market back to center stage with demonstrations and vendor rooms highlighting cutting-edge systems and immersive listening experiences.

Meanwhile in Budapest the HIFI Show Budapest at the Crowne Plaza promises a dignified exhibition of the newest audio and video technology, continuing its reputation as a leading regional showcase where manufacturers present refined systems in salon-style settings. Across the Mediterranean in the Philippines, the November Hi-Fi Show Philippines celebrates 23 years at its new home in Makati Diamond Residences, offering more than 60 rooms of high-end two-channel systems, portable audio, and vendor exhibits that emphasize both tradition and innovation in sound reproduction.

Together these events create a concentrated weekend for product launches, hands-on demos, and expert discussions that signal the industry's healthy demand for premium listening experiences. Attendees can expect head-to-head comparisons, boutique and mainstream brands rubbing shoulders, and opportunities for retailers and importers to negotiate new deals. For enthusiasts, the simultaneous timing offers a rare snapshot of global trends in high-fidelity audio, from luxurious modern immersive reference systems to evolving portable and legacy stereo formats.

11 / 10 / 25

Enjoy the Music.com Joins Capital Audiofest As Official Sponsor
Experience the latest exciting developments in high-end audio!
Enjoy the Music.com, the leading authority in premium home audio since 1995, today announced its continued sponsorship of Capital Audiofest 2025. The three-day event will be held November 14th through 16th at the Twinbrook Hilton in Rockville, Maryland, and feature both audiophile and immersivephile home audio sound systems. For more than 30 years, Enjoy the Music.com has delivered comprehensive industry news, thousands of gear reviews, and extensive show coverage to the global high-end audio community. As a long-standing voice in luxury consumer electronics, the site is proud to support Capital Audiofest's 14th annual exhibition, one of the largest fall home-entertainment shows open to the public in the United States.

Over the years, Capital Audiofest (CAF) has drawn thousands of music lovers, audiophiles, manufacturers, and media professionals, providing an important forum for product demonstrations, industry dialogue, and discovery. Enjoy the Music.com's sponsorship reaffirms its commitment to fostering industry growth, promoting innovative audio technologies, and enhancing the experience for show attendees and exhibitors alike. Enjoy the Music.com's editorial team will be onsite to produce in-depth coverage, room reviews, and feature highlights of notable demonstrations and product introductions. Exhibitors and attendees are invited to connect with the team throughout the weekend for interviews and media briefings. Be sure to read our expert choices for the exhibitors who will earn a prestigious Best Of Capital Audiofest 2025 Blue Note Award!

"Isn't that what being an audiophile is all about? At the heart of it, we simply enjoy the music," said Gary Gill of Capital Audiofest. "Gear matters, but it starts with being a music lover — from a childhood radio, a first instrument, or a hand-me-down turntable — and grows into a quest for truer, more meaningful sound. The team at Enjoy the Music.com, in concert with their Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin, has taken that passion to the next level through their over three decades of relationships with top quality audiophile brands, high-end audio manufacturers, and luxury audio shows. Now, as a sponsor of Capital Audiofest 2025 as in years past, Enjoy the Music.com brings its editorial authority and love of listening to one of the year's premier high-end events — thank you Enjoy the Music.com and the team for championing music first!"

"Enjoy the Music.com exists for one reason: a deep love of music," said Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin. "Being an audiophile begins with that passion and grows into a lifelong pursuit of seeking authentic sound quality. By elevating audiophile culture, we connect music lovers with top brands, manufacturers, as we have reported on hundreds of luxury home audio shows over the past three decades. Our vision includes hands-on reviews, while on-the-ground show coverage has helped countless listeners refine their tastes, choose gear that truly serves the music, and discover the emotional power of high-fidelity music both at home and on the go."

"Enjoy the Music.com is honored to once again sponsor Capital Audiofest, bringing our editorial expertise and passion for music to one of the year's premier high-end audio events," says Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin. "We thank Capital Audiofest and exhibitors for their immense love of music, while we welcome attendees who will enjoy an authentic music experience during the show. We are proud to support Capital Audiofest 2025 and to bring our extensive editorial resources to bear in highlighting innovative products, insightful demonstrations, and the people who drive this industry forward."

Learn about many exciting developments within high-end audio at our Capital Audiofest 2025 show report.

11 / 07 / 25

Hi-Fi+ November 2025 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: Time Travelling Via Music
Magico S2 Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Acoustic Energy AE1 40th Anniversary Stand-Mount Loudspeaker
Burmester 232 Integrated Amplifier 
Transrotor Bellini TMD, TRA 9 And Figaro Turntable, Arm, & MC Cartridge
Ensemble Massimo Fonobrio Phono Stage
Rotel DX-5 Integrated Amplifier
Revival Audio Sprint 3 Stand-Mount Loudspeaker
Ruark Audio R610 Integrated Music System
REL S/850 Subwoofer
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "As we move toward our combination 250th and Awards issue, it occurs to me that audio has a function rarely spoken about. It's a time machine. And often, the better the system, the greater the time machine effect. The time machine component is an odd one. Music, perhaps more than anything, can cast you back to the time and place you first heard that recording. It can invoke memories of the place you bought the recording, who was with you when you bought it, the time, the place and the people with you when you first heard it and more. That focus on memory can work wonders; we've probably all seen the video footage of those with advanced dementia briefly coming out of their shell just by listening to the music of their youth. Taste and smell have similar 'wayback' elements, but they are less focused on a particular time, and invoke more general memories of a person or vague age rather than the specifics of a musical event. The time machine effect has a deeper component than just reminding you of things you did in the past. It can summon up past events you weren't a party to. Very few people today were alive when Louis Armstrong was cutting 'West End Blues' back in 1928, and absolutely no-one is old enough to have been at the first performance of Beethoven's Ninth or Mozart's The Magic Flute."
---> Hi-Fi+'s November 2025 High-End Audio Magazine.

11 / 06 / 25

AGD Audion Mk III Monoblock Amplifier Review
Art deco style with an emotionally engaging, tonally rich, and high-resolution sound.
Review By Rick Becker
It was love at first sight when I discovered the new AGD Audio at Rocky Mountain Audiofest back in 2019. My review came out in the February 2020 issue and it was awarded a Best of 2020 Blue Note Award. Now, four years later, it still puts a smile on my face when I turn it on. It's priced at $7850 per pair in a satin finish and $8600 in full polish, a modest price increase from the $6800 in satin and $7500 in polished when first introduced. Given how quantitative easing to deal with COVID-19, along with supply chain disruptions and opportunistic suppliers has led to inflation, this is sadly understandable. Factoring in the increase in sound quality brought first by the Mk II, and now the Mk III, well, that's what this review is all about.
--->AGD Audion Mk III Monoblock Amplifier Review.

Premium Luxury Audio Fall Foliage Tweakfest
Featuring the Bybee Clarifiers and Massif Record Weight / Cable Risers, plus Synergistic Purple Duplex Outlet, MiG 3.0 Footers, and Carbon Tuning Discs.
Review By Rick Becker
Well, audio tweaks are not exactly history-altering inventions like the printing press.... Thus, my annual Tweakfest of small, but significant products, has drifted into fall, just in time for the November issue and foreshadowing the Holiday Gift Guide. The cognoscenti of audio forums have probably christened me a fanboy of Synergistic Research, but I've been continually impressed with the creations from the mind of Ted Denney. His major products are cables and power conditioners, but once he makes a discovery it is frequently spread throughout a multitude of smaller products and occasionally gives birth to a new tweak. I'll cover three such items, plus a few more, in this Fall Foliage Tweakfest.
---> Premium Luxury Audio Fall Foliage Tweakfest.

11 / 05 / 25

Passport To Sound Welcomes Young Audiophiles At Capital Audiofest 2025
Capital Audiofest 2025 is turning up the volume on youth engagement this year with the debut of Passport to Sound, a free educational activity book crafted by Mahrukh Anwar as part of the Passport Adventures series. The Passport to Sound introduces children and teens to the immersive world of high-end audio and is designed by a science educator passionate about inclusivity. The booklet aims to make the hi-fi experience accessible and exciting for younger audiences, encouraging exploration, learning, and creativity throughout the show. For many months, Enjoy the Music.com's Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin has been encouraging Mahrukh and carefully looking at versions of this exceptional activity guide created to share our love of music and high-end audio.

The activity book guides participants through listening rooms with prompts that spark curiosity and deepen their understanding of sound. From scavenger-style challenges to imaginative questions, Passport to Sound transforms the audio show into an interactive adventure. Young attendees are invited to discover new music, observe audio setups, and reflect on what they hear—making each room a learning opportunity. As a reward for their engagement, children who complete the booklet will receive a "Certified Audiophile-in-Training" sticker badge, a playful yet meaningful token of their journey into the hi-fi universe. The program is free and available during show hours, with booklets distributed in Room 726. While designed for ages 8 through 16, the experience is open to all ages, welcoming families and curious minds alike. Be sure to read our exclusive Capital Audiofest 2025 high-end audiophile show report.

11 / 04 / 25

UMG And Udio Announce Strategic AI Collaboration
Universal Music Group (UMG) and AI music platform Udio have reached industry-first strategic agreements that settle recent copyright litigation and establish a commercial partnership to build a new music creation, consumption, and streaming experience. As part of the deal, compensatory settlements were completed and new licenses for recorded music and publishing were agreed, which UMG says will create additional revenue opportunities for its artists and songwriters. The companies plan to launch the new subscription platform in 2026, powered by generative AI trained exclusively on authorized and licensed music. Udio stated the service will offer a licensed, protected environment where users can customize, stream, and share music responsibly, and Udio's existing product will remain available during a transition that includes measures such as fingerprinting and filtering to safeguard rights holders. Udio CEO Andrew Sanchez called the collaboration a milestone that aligns AI with artist interests and expands creative possibilities.

UMG Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge framed the agreement as part of the company's broader strategy to embrace new technologies and diversify revenue for creators, noting UMG's history of AI-related deals with major platforms and tech partners. Both companies described the partnership as a next step in fostering a commercial AI ecosystem where artists, songwriters, music companies, and technology firms can collaborate to create new fan experiences. "We couldn't be more thrilled about this collaboration and the opportunity to work alongside UMG to redefine how AI empowers artists and fans," said Andrew Sanchez, Co-Founder & CEO of Udio. "This moment brings to life everything we've been building toward – uniting AI and the music industry in a way that truly champions artists. Together, we're building the technological and business landscape that will fundamentally expand what's possible in music creation and engagement."

11 / 02 / 25

Toronto Audiofest 2025: Complete Show Coverage, Biggest Gear Reveals, And Best Demos
What happened, what to buy, special highlights, plus our best audiophile gear picks!
Toronto Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
The situation with President Donald Trump's tariffs may make purchasing items from Canada far more expensive for U.S. audiophiles, but the manufacturers and vendors I spoke with do not have animosity toward U.S. customers. They are keenly aware of what is going on in the US, perhaps more so than the average American. Having set a personal high-water mark with my show reports, it has become necessary to restructure my workflow for show reports and cut back on my coverage. My goal remains to pay homage to every room with at least a photo, but my writing will focus on the most salient remarks and the most impressive rooms at the show. I need more time to enjoy my music, and that's not possible if I'm writing constantly. I listened to many high-end sound systems at the Toronto Audiofest 2025 and share my impressions, highlighting the Top Tier presentations, and announcing Enjoy the Music.com's coveted annual Best of Toronto Audiofest 2025 Blue Note Awards!
---> Toronto Audiofest 2025: Complete Show Coverage, Biggest Gear Reveals, And Best Demos.

11 / 01 / 25

Just Posted! November's Audiophile Show Special Edition
We're celebrating 30 years of sound with exclusive show reports plus iconic gear reviews & great videos too!
The November issue of Enjoy the Music.com's monthly Review Magazine delivers exclusive, in-depth show reports from Toronto Audiofest and Capital Audiofest 2025. Celebrating our 30th anniversary, this issue also revisits our favorite high-end audio components from our three decades of coverage. Expect expert reviews, new insights, and detailed photos that capture the sound, design, and craftsmanship audiophiles crave. Plus, get ready for our festive December holiday issue, which will be packed with brand-new luxury hi-fi gear reviews, finalized show coverage, and thought-provoking articles concerning serious listeners.

Inside this issue you'll find hands-on evaluations, technical impressions, and listening-room impressions written by veteran reviewers who have decades of experience with high-end audio sound systems. We break down how each component performs in real-world setups, highlight standout innovations, and point readers to the most meaningful upgrades. Our editorial team curated this issue with the collector and serious listener in mind, drawing on Enjoy the Music.com's 30 years of archive knowledge to place current releases in historical perspective. If you care about the sound of your favorite tunes, musical artist performances, and desire achieving a great hi-fi system experience that lasts, join our community of audiophiles and music lovers.
---> November's Audiophile Show Special Edition Review Magazine.

Mister Stokowski! Mister Stokowski!
Let's talk about movies, classical music, and high-fidelity home audio.
Article By Roger Skoff
In the 1940 Disney film, Fantasia, Mickey Mouse, still in costume from his performance as Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice, runs up to Conductor, Leopold Stokowski, and, full of admiration, pulls on Stokowski's coat, says "Mr. Stokowski! Mr. Stokowski!", whistles to get the great man's attention, says "My congratulations, sir!" and the exchange continues.... Back in those days, Mickey Mouse was hugely successful, Stokowski became a popular figure, Fantasia became one of the all-time classic movies, played, re-played, re-dubbed, and, finally, in 2000, given a sequel. And classical music was, for at least a while, if not the, at least a kind of music enjoyed by the masses. (Just a side-note, here, when my daughter was little, she was quite smitten by Fantasia – which we had on tape and played at home – and called the Sorcerer's Apprentice sequence "The Sausage's Appendix").
---> Mister Stokowski! Mister Stokowski!

Toronto Audiofest 2025 Show Report
Canada's high-end audiophile premium audio / video equipment show.
The Toronto Audiofest 2025 unfolded over three immersive days, spotlighting high-end home audiophile gear, videophile equipment, modern immersive audio, and EARVANA—Canada's first and only dedicated headphone festival—within an expansive 8,000 sq ft showcase. Music lovers and audiophiles alike plugged in and demo'ed the newest in headphone and earphone technology, ranging from flagship over-ear designs to portable high-res in-ear monitors. With both general admission and industry badge options available, the event caters to casual enthusiasts and trade professionals seeking hands-on encounters with tomorrow's audio innovations. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Toronto Audiofest 2025 high-end audiophile / immersivephile show coverage will be online shortly.
---> Toronto Audiofest 2025 Luxury Home Audio Show Report.

Inside Capital Audiofest 2025: Exclusive Show Report & Latest Gear
New high-end audio trends, top hi-fi gear, plus audiophile insights and cutting-edge innovations.
Welcome to Enjoy the Music.com's comprehensive Capital Audiofest 2025 show report. Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2025 is set to take place from November 14th to 16th at the Hilton Rockville in Maryland, continuing its legacy as the East Coast's largest and most beloved high-end audio show. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, offering three full days of immersive listening experiences, gear demos, and community engagement. Founded in 2010 by Gary Gill, CAF has grown from a grassroots gathering into a cornerstone of the North American audiophile calendar, drawing enthusiasts, engineers, and manufacturers from across the globe. Our Capital Audiofest 2025 show reports will be online during the event, with very exciting  expanded coverage afterwards!
---> Inside Capital Audiofest 2025: Exclusive Show Report & Latest Gear.

McIntosh MC75 Monoblock Tube Amplifier And C22 Tube Preamplifier Review
McIntosh's latest re-introduction of their classic audio components.
Review By Anthony Nicosia
McIntosh has been making high-end audio products that music lovers have treasured for a very long time. This review of McIntosh's re-introduction of their MC75 monoblock tube amplifier and C22 tube preamplifier ($3750 each and $7500 respectively) shows the strength of this longstanding high-end audio manufacturer. Originally founded in 1949 they operated out of Silver Spring, Maryland until 1956 when they built their current facility in Binghamton, New York. What can anyone say about McIntosh Labs that has not already been said? This sixty-six year old company has produced many classics and is still making gear audiophiles crave for even in today's highly competitive world-wide market. Let it be known that my passion for McIntosh audio gear has spanned decades. In the past my home has seen the MC275, MC240, MC225 (two of them to be exact), MC2102, MC2105 and MC452 amplifiers.
---> McIntosh MC75 Monoblock Tube Amplifier And C22 Tube Preamplifier Review.

Audio Gold For Lucky Men: MY 25 Hi-Fi Malaysia Group
A prosperous two day trip to Kuala Lumpur brings an earful of delights worth millions of dollars.
A Fun-Filled Visit By Heather And Steven R. Rochlin
It all started innocently. Those who live within New England, USA, know about the months-long -17F winter combined with well over 18 feet of annual snowfall during the winter months. After many years enduring this annual situation, it was time for Heather and I to journey to Singapore for a few months. The warm 85F days followed by perfect 73F nights are a blissful welcome to the chilling alternative back home. Being on holiday, for me, is a slowdown by working only 9 hours a day instead of the normal 16. My father is the same way, so perhaps it is a genetic trait being a Rochlin. After about a week here in Singapore I received a message within Enjoy the Music.com's Facebook page suggesting that I should visit KL. For those unfamiliar, KL is short for Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and flying there is a fast hopper flight from Singapore; and good round trip airfare can be had for $200 per couple. Since I, nor my wife, have been to KL it was literally four days later and we were landing at Kuala Lumpur airport to meet the MY 25 Hi-Fi Malaysia group.
---> Audio Gold For Lucky Men: MY 25 Hi-Fi Malaysia Group.

Sonus Faber Olympica Nova V Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
Faithful reproducing that sounds like music.
Review By Tom Lyle
I first heard speakers from Sonus faber's Olympica Nova series during my second visit to the World Of McIntosh Townhouse, located in the Soho neighborhood of downtown New York City. Before I left this wonderful audiophile playhouse, I couldn't resist requesting a review pair of their top model in the Olympica line, the Nova V. As part of their brief explanation of what I was hearing that day, I was told that this 37-year-old Italian speaker manufacturer upgraded this speaker line with new crossovers and drivers, new cabinet structures, internal volume tuning, and many other updates.  Of course, the speakers' cosmetics were also refined by Sonus faber's team of designers, giving them a new more refined appearance. One can read more about the upgrades than I could fit in the space of a review of only one of the speakers on Sonus faber's website, you can also read about some of the impressions I had when I saw and heard these speakers for the first time in the link I provided....
---> Sonus Faber Olympica Nova V Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review.

Silversmith Audio Fidelium Loudspeaker Cables Review
A new paradigm in speaker cables.
Review By Greg Weaver
I first met the engaging Jeffrey Smith, founder and design engineer of Silversmith Audio and recently retired Navy Commander, some nineteen years ago during his third CES, in January of 2002. To save space here, as there is quite a bit to cover, I'd refer you to his "About Us" link at the Silversmith Audio web page to see his remarkable story. He was showing his then flagship silver ribbon interconnects and speaker cables at the Alexis Park paired with gear from Pass Labs including their X0.2 linestage and X600 amplifiers driving the EgglestonWorks Andra II speakers. The then-new speaker crossover design and final tonal voicing were the work by my friend the late Albert Von Schweikert. Sourced by a Marantz SA1251 SACD player, with all equipment isolated using Grand Prix Audio stands, the room was a clear sonic standout.
---> Silversmith Audio Fidelium Loudspeaker Cables Review.

The Nagra SN Reel-To-Reel Tape Recorder
A video about the incredibly small Nagra SN that pretty much covers everything.
Video By Lucas Dul Of In Mechanica Antiqua
I have always been a fan of beautiful engineering. That is one of the primary things that drives me to do the things I do, from writing and typewriter repair to photography. I have dived deeply into those last two things in this blog, primarily my work with typewriter repair. For as long as I can remember, there has always been this undying curiosity to see how things work. To get an inside look, to examine all these carefully created parts and understand their purpose, and to appreciate the mind that conceived them. A rather long video about the Nagra SN, one of the smallest reel to reel tape recorders ever made, and of the highest quality. Had some issues during the making of this video, but whatever. Hope there are moments you find enjoyable! I make no claims of being any sort of audio professional, I just like tape recorders. Finally, my advice for finding an affordable unit is....
---> The Nagra SN Reel-To-Reel Tape Recorder.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

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