High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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01 / 31 / 24

Enjoy the Music.com Sponsors The 2024 Florida International Audio Expo's Happy Hour
Enjoy the Music.com, high-performance audio's celebrated online site for 29 years and a leader in providing show reports, industry news, and high-end premium audio gear reviews, is pleased to once again sponsor Florida International Audio Expo's Industry Happy Hour. During their February event in Tampa, on Thursday evening both exhibitors and members of the press are invited to join us at the second-floor registration area for complimentary food and beverages. Since 1995, Enjoy the Music.com has been a major resource for information about consumer electronics, including the high-performance luxury audio industry and premium high-resolution / streaming music. We are deeply honored for the opportunity to support the Florida International Audio Expo for the third consecutive year in a row! Enjoy the Music.com continues to sponsor more high-performance audio events than any other publication within the industry.
---> Enjoy the Music.com Sponsors Florida Intl Audio Expo 2024.

01 / 30 / 24

The Chester Group Shows Cover The UK Market
The Chester Group, a specialist in International Home Technology Shows who have been a pioneering business keeping step with consumer electronics, produce three extensive luxury events that reach the entire UK marketplace. Their reputation has been built on selecting the very best venues, maintaining independence in the marketplace, and ensuring an exceptional value too. On April 20th and 21st is their London Audio Show at the famous Heathrow Radisson Red. During October 5th and 6th is The Chester Group's UK Audio Show at the Staverton Hotel. Following that is their November 9th and 10th event at the Double Tree by Hilton Edinburgh Airport.

All Chester Group shows are being remastered during 2024 and via a host of brand new features, which is set to draw in new attendees. For exhibitors, the Chester Group is still the only organizer that provides a complete attendance package, which includes B&B and daily concessions. For attendees, right now is the perfect time to take advantage of Early Bird tickets, which are said to be selling fast due to the Chester Group's reputation for delivering he friendliest consumer shows on the calendar. "Shows are perhaps the best way to truly experience how incredible your favorite music sounds, "says Enjoy the Music.com. "Thanks to The Chester Group high-performance audio shows for providing a family-friendly space for both the exhibitors and attending music lovers alike." Learn more and get your tickets at this link.

01 / 29 / 24

ESS Technology ES9290 ADC / DAC Synchronous CODEC
ESS Technology has recently introduces a new SABRE CODEC that integrates stereo analog and digital channels with modern lossless high-resolution performance. The ES9290 synchronous CODEC incorporates stereo ADCs / DACs with ultra-low noise conversion and a very high dynamic range (DNR) of +116dB, with a THD+N of -110dB / -108dB (DAC / ADC respectively) per channel. Manufacturers who incorporate this chip can take advantage of programmable gain amplifiers (PGAs) with a gain of up to +30dB, plus there's custom pre-programmed filters that are complementary to both ADC and DAC. Furthermore, Digital Full Biquad (DBQ) filter that is fully customizable to implement any Full Biquad, with many preset options such as 80Hz / 120Hz high pass, RIAA de-emphasis, and there pre-emphasis filters as well.

The ES9290 included PGAs with a gain of up to +30dB in +3dB steps and Line Drivers reduce bill of materials by providing front-end and back-end circuits for gain and output levels requirements. The ESS patented Hyperstream IV architecture incorporated in the ES9290 provides the SABRE legendary sound quality which further improves audio performance while consuming lower power compared to previous generations providing a full and rewarding listening experience. The ES9290 supports multiple I/O formats including TDM, TDM Daisy Chain, I2S, LJ, RJ while supporting up to 768kHz sample rate using 64FS mode. The control interface can be programmed using multiple input methods including I2C, SPI, and a hardware mode (HW) for ease of programmability. The SABRE CODEC is well suited for pro audio interfaces, live stream media online, high-quality microphones, and professional DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) recording and playback.

01 / 26 / 24

Immersive Audio Album's Listener's Choice Award 2024
With next generation immersive audio slowly making its way into homes and headphones, we're happy to report on the winners of Immersive Audio Album's Listener's Choice Award: On January 24th, the final voting period for IAA's 2024 Listener's Choice Awards concluded! More votes were cast this year than in any prior edition of the awards. Earlier this month, we were proud to announce the ten nominees selected by immersive audio fans: five for the physical disc/digital download category, and five for the streaming category. According to our audience, these ten titles represented the best immersive listening experiences to be had from October 2022 to September 2023. Congratulations to the artist and production team behind each album.

The winners in each category are as follows:
Category #1: Streaming
Artist: Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Title: Greatest Hits (1993)
Format: Streaming
Immersive Mix By: Ryan Ulyate (Dolby Atmos)

Tom Petty Dolby Atmos
Following his acclaimed work on the Wildflowers and Angel Dream reissues in 2021, it's no surprise that Universal Music Group and the Petty estate has once again tapped expert mixer Ryan Ulyate to create a Dolby Atmos mix of The Heartbreakers' classic 1993 Greatest Hits compilation.

Category #2: Physical Disc/Digital Download
Artist: Mr. Big
Title: Mr. Big (1989)
Format: Digital Download and SACD
Immersive Mix By: Chris Bell & Michael Romanowski (5.1 & Dolby Atmos)

Mr. Big Dolby Atmos
In the Summer of 2021, Evolution Music Group (evoXS) surprised audiophiles and immersive music enthusiasts by issuing a 5.1 surround SACD of California hair metal band Mr. Big's classic 1991 studio album Lean Into It. Naturally, fans began to speculate whether or not the band's 1989 self-titled debut would receive a similar deluxe reissue. Such conjecture proved correct in January 2023, when evoXS announced a 5.1 SACD of the album with remastered stereo & new 5.1 remixes for release on April 21, 2023.

01 / 25 / 24

Rogue Audio RP-7 Vacuum Tube Stereo Preamplifier Review
A very flexible and fantastic high-end vacuum tube preamplifier.
Review By Tom Lyle
It was about a decade ago when I last reviewed a component manufactured by Rogue Audio. I distinctly remember my time spent with that preamp because I was very impressed with its sound quality. But when I un-boxed their new RP-7 preamplifier it looked as if it was made by a different company.  As good as their older component looked, the Rogue Audio RP-7 seemed as if its fit and finish was light years better than the older unit. Of course I'm exaggerating a bit, as I don't remember the older unit looking so bad. Plus I didn't have the older preamp in front of me to compare the two, and I certainly don't remember the older component looking bad, but I was very impressed with how modern and stylish this new rectangular black box looked. After I connected it to my system and switched its power on, I was even more impressed with the preamplifier's appearance when it's blue LED display lit up.
---> Rogue Audio RP-7 Vacuum Tube Stereo Preamplifier Review.

Line Magnetic 218ia Vacuum Tube Int. Amplifier Review
A single-ended triode integrated amplifier for everyone!
Review By Paul L. Schumann
Back in the 1990s, there was an explosion of interest in single-ended triode (SET) amplification. This was spearheaded by two great Japanese designers, Hiroyasu Kondo of Audio Note and Nobu Shishido of WAVAC. Both men designed and built stunning SET amplifiers that were just as much works of art as electronic components. We're talking hand-wound silver-wire transformers and custom-made coupling caps. While they were indeed quite wonderful, they were also on the pricey side. You could still pick up a soldering iron and if were brave enough, make one of your own. Audio Note and Bottlehead still sell reasonably-priced kits. But what if the smell of fresh solder makes you queasy? What are you to do? I first became aware of Line Magnetic a few years ago when I noticed on line that a new audio salon here in Austin started carrying their equipment. Their prices seemed right. I wanted to drop by and listen. It was always on my "to do" list.
---> Line Magnetic 218ia Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier Review.

01 / 24 / 24

TikTok Global Live Concert Receives 33.5M Viewers
With rumors of TikTok to offer true lossless hi-res music streaming, their In The Mix livestream is officially the biggest ever live event on TikTok. According to the company: TikTok In The Mix, the first-of-its-kind live global experience on TikTok, officially shattered viewing records, with over 33.5M viewers in total enjoying the original broadcast and subsequent rebroadcasts of the show. In addition, the show on Sunday, December 10, which brought the best of music on TikTok to a sold-out crowd of 17,000 at Sloan Park in Mesa, AZ, broke the record for the biggest ever live event on TikTok, with a massive 9.6M viewers tuning in to catch the show live. Celebrating the music, trends, and experiences our community enjoys and creates every day, TikTok In The Mix gave fans the show of a lifetime, created by award-winning director Hamish Hamilton and Done+Dusted. The five-hour music event featured a slate of genre-defining musicians.

"In The Mix was an awe inspiring event where fans and artists came together to celebrate what we love about TikTok, where the power of the platform's music discovery played out on stage," said Paul Hourican, Global Head of Music Partnerships & Programming at TikTok. "An event of this magnitude truly takes a village, thank you to the amazing line-up of incredible artists, our partners, the sold out crowd in Arizona, and the record breaking audience who watched around the world in their millions on TikTok." In The Mix is also available on Disney+ and Hulu with highlights from the event, showcasing what TikTok feels are legendary moments.

01 / 23 / 24

The London Audio Show 2024 In April
The London Audio Show 2024 is set t o take place at the very popular and proven Radisson Red Hotel (formerly known as the Park Inn) on April 20th and 21st. The Chester Group first established shows back in 2002 at the Renaissance Hotel, but in order to appeal to a wider consumer market they eventually went to the Midlands where the show ultimately became highly successful. Operated by the Chest Group UK, this event achieves the right balance of exhibitors and brands while also revealing the best in high-performance audio consumer electronics. Save currency by buying Early Bird Passes, which are now on sale at £7.50 for one day and £10.00 for both days (Early Bird special discount ends January 31st).

01 / 22 / 24

Florida International Audio Expo 2024 Show
The Florida International Audio Expo, from February 16th through 18th at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore hotel, will feature with many floors filled with exhibit spaces. This event will deliver plenty of great sound, plus various exhibit room will feature never before seen new products! Show attendees are the world's first to experience many of the best new high-performance audio products. With an outstanding 12 floors of demonstrations to explore, attendees can experience luxurious premium audio electronics, loudspeakers, turntables, and high-end audio headphones produced by manufacturers from all over the world.

The Florida International Audio Expo is within convenient driving distance to such local attractions as Tampa Busch Gardens, Disneyworld, and the Florida Aquarium. Don't forget about Universal Studios, and of course NASA to see a rocket launch! You and your family may see a SpaceX rocket launch live and in person. Let's not forget that America's #1 beach is close by too, and February is excellent weather in Florida (we promise you no cold snow)!
---> Learn More About The Florida International Audio Expo 2024 Show.

01 / 19 / 24

Wi-Fi 7 Lossless Immersive Audio, 4k Video, AR/VR, And More
The Wi-Fi Alliance, a worldwide network of companies with more than 80,000 Wi-Fi certifications over billions of devices globally, has just introduced the most powerful new features that boosts Wi-Fi performance and improves connectivity across a variety of environments. With the previous version of Wi-Fi eliminating the need for any lossy compression, true lossless FLAC, etc was easily supported over a plethora of services and devices. With the finalization and launch of Wi-Fi Certified 7, consumers can not just enjoy true lossless recording studio quality audio wirelessly, Wi-Fi 7 easily handles multi-channel lossless immersive music and 4k video, among other high-data use platforms. Wi-FI 7's high throughput, deterministic latency, and greater reliability ensure reliability for critical traffic. According to the Wi-Fi Alliance, "New use cases – including multi-user AR / VR / XR, immersive 3-D training, electronic gaming, hybrid work, industrial IoT, and automotive – will advance as a result of the latest Wi-Fi generation."

Furthermore, "Wi-Fi Certified 7 represents the culmination of extensive collaboration and innovation within Wi-Fi Alliance, facilitating worldwide product interoperability and a robust, sophisticated device ecosystem. Wi-Fi 7 will see rapid adoption across a broad ecosystem with more than 233 million devices expected to enter the market in 2024, growing to 2.1 billion devices by 2028. Smartphones, PCs, tablets, and access points (APs) will be the earliest adopters of Wi-Fi 7, and customer premises equipment (CPE) and augmented and virtual reality (AR / VR) equipment will continue to gain early market traction. Wi-Fi Certified 7 pushes the boundaries of today's wireless connectivity, and Wi-Fi Certified helps ensure advanced features are deployed in a consistent way to deliver high-quality user experiences." Tech savvy readers should see their official press release for more info.

01 / 18 / 24

Focal Utopia Headphones Review (2022 Version)
After six years on sale, Focal's flagship headphone receives a comprehensive revision, drawing on the company's speaker expertise to stay competitive.
Review By Ed Shelly
2016 was the point when Focal's commitment to the headphone category stepped up a gear. Up to then, the company had been content to produce relatively affordable models, contesting the newly created 'nomad' category of headphones that could be used both at home and on the move, but the release of three considerably more expensive models marked a shift upmarket and much of the credibility that underpinned this was supplied by the flagship. As well as making use of the Utopia name for the first time on a headphone, Focal also employed beryllium for a driver material.
---> Focal Utopia Headphones Review (2022 Version).

World Premiere Review!
LessLoss BlackGround 10X Power Base Review
A breakthrough technology that minimizes ambient EMI in the listening environment with stunning results.
Review By Rick Becker
Louis Motek is a scientist who thinks about electricity beyond the wire. He's up there in that class of audio savants with Ted Denny of Synergistic Research, the late Jack Bybee, Rick Schultz of the former High Fidelity Cables, and likely a few others. A look at his website will tell you a lot about him. To call him an engineer borders on insult, but he's one of those, too. He works with an actual electrical engineer at LessLoss, Vilmantas "Vil" Duda, who presumably keeps Louis from violating any laws of physics. Like other innovators in high-end audio, Louis has developed a legion of followers. One of them in Germany is responsible for tuning me into LessLoss. I was grateful for the opportunity to review his Firewall 640X, Firewall for Loudspeakers, Entropic C-MARC Power Cord, and Bindbreaker footers back in March 2022.
---> LessLoss BlackGround 10X Power Base Review.

01 / 17 / 24

HIGH END 2024 At The MOC In Germany
The 2024 edition of HIGH END audio show will take place from May 9th through 12th at the MOC Event Center in Munich (Germany). More than 200 exhibitors will be there representing home and portable audio innovations to thousands of attendees. HIGH END is an important marketplace and trading rendezvous for the global audio industry, with many international trade members and visitors in attendance. People from over 90 countries will gather in Munich to discover the latest industry trends, discuss news, and reviews plus network to increase their business' exposure to a broader audience. Industry experts, audiophiles, and music lovers will enjoy music during this four-day event.

As the preeminent online magazine with hundreds of premium audio show reports online, Enjoy the Music.com will once again be at HIGH END with multiple photojournalists in attendance. Since 2000, many years before most other online publications, Enjoy the Music.com reported on the HIGH END show in Frankfurt before it moved to its large MOC location. For decades, the HIGH END event has set the tone for the very best in music reproduction. This event supports fresh new ideas for audio engineers, producers, hi-fi dealers, and music lovers alike. During this event, there's also a special business-to-business (B2B) trade fair during the first two days of the four-day trade show. On the weekend, HIGH END 2024 will be open to the general public. The current number of bookings received demonstrates the ongoing support in exhibiting at HIGH END 2024. We look forward to seeing you there!

01 / 16 / 24

RIAA Applauds Leadership On Landmark No AI FRAUD Act
This just in from the RIAA: Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier today released the following statement in support of the No Artificial Intelligence Fake Replicas And Unauthorized Duplications Act of 2024 ("No AI FRAUD Act"). This bipartisan legislation introduced by Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-4), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-1), Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) and Rob Wittman (R-VA-1) aims to combat abusive AI deepfakes, voice clones, and exploitive digital human impersonations.

"The No AI FRAUD Act is a meaningful step towards building a safe, responsible and ethical AI ecosystem, and the RIAA applauds Representatives Salazar, Dean, Moran, Morelle, and Wittman for leading in this important area. To be clear, we embrace the use of AI to offer artists and fans new creative tools that support human creativity. But putting in place guardrails like the No AI FRAUD Act is a necessary step to protect individual rights, preserve and promote the creative arts, and ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of generative AI. As decades of innovation have shown, when Congress establishes strong IP rights that foster market-led solutions, it results in both driving innovation and supporting human expression and partnerships that create American culture."

The No AI FRAUD Act builds on the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act (NO FAKES Act) discussion draft released by Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis – both instrumental in strengthening laws to protect the essential human elements of every American. Recent research from IFPI finds that 83% of Americans feel human creativity remains essential to the creation of music and 76% agree that AI should not be used to clone or impersonate music artists without permission.

01 / 15 / 24

Australian Hi-Fi January / February 2024
Editorial: Enjoying The Music You Love
TAGA Harmony TCD-50 CD Player
Advance Paris A12 Classic Stereo Amplifier
Vivid Audio Kaya S12 Loudspeakers
Serhan Swift Mµ2 Mk II Loudspeakers
History Of Portable Audio: Part 3
Hi-Fi Primer
Piano Test Tracks
High-End Review #1: Best Turntables
High-End Review #2: Cost-No-Object Loudspeakers
And Much More!

Within her editorial, Becky Roberts says "I remember this revelatory day in 2017 like it was yesterday. Following an ill-timed holiday, during which my colleagues had received the KEF LS50 Wireless, I walked into the test room and found the two speakers hooked up playing music. I'd read about these "wireless LS50s" when they were announced the November prior, and now here they were in front of me — just two regular-sized speaker cabinets plugged into the power sockets behind them, and to one another via an Ethernet cable; no transmitter box, no source physically tethered to them. Where was this music coming from? 'Only' Bluetooth, their top-panel input display revealed, though their killer feature was undoubtedly integrated Wi-Fi and network streaming."
---> Australian Hi-Fi January / February 2024.

01 / 13 / 24

Best Of Capital Audiofest 2023
Capital Audiofest Report / Chronicles Part 11
Show Report By Rick Becker
When a writer or vlogger covers a premium audio / high-end show, they have to make decisions about how they are going to do it. Over the course of three days, the rooms are only open for about 22 hours plus maybe a special listening event in a few rooms on Fridays and Saturdays for the public, plus whatever after-hours private listening sessions a reporter might be able to line up. When shows were ~55 rooms back in the 1990s (at least in Canada) it was a challenge to cover them all. And with shows now approaching 200 rooms the likelihood of covering all the rooms becomes all but impossible. (Put on your high-heel sneakers.) With 120 rooms at Capital Audiofest 2023, that means 11 minutes per room, minus travel time between rooms and time for a couple of pit stops during the day. For me, lunch is typically a Clif bar and Mt. Dew while listening in a good room.
---> Best Of Capital Audiofest 2023.

01 / 12 / 24

audioXpress' February 2024 Issue
Editorial: From Smart To Intelligent
Acoustical Shape Optimization For Vibroacoustics Applications
Battle Of The Crossovers: Duelund Versus Linkwitz-Riley
Duetta: A Modest-Cost, Transmission-Line Speaker
A Better Beta Follower
Market Update — Microphones And Voice Capture
Voice Applications Take Center Stage
Sustainable Acoustical Products For Unconventional Designs
The Imaginary Silvertec Guitar Amplifier
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "Developments in audio front-ends and MEMS microphones give us a broad perspective of an intense area of activity for the audio industry. After the world converted work-from home spaces into recording and live streaming studios, microphones for musicians, podcasters, and creatives continue to be in strong demand. And as the world got back on the move, many other interesting trends have started taking place. There's now an interesting convergence with in-ear devices and the ability to capture the world around us — also because of the need to work from anywhere — demanding a combination of new technology and designs. Consumer hearables continue to be the market's fastest and largest growing category, and microphones are at the core of these devices."
---> audioXpress' February 2024 Issue.

01 / 11 / 24

Boulder 866 Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review
A true standard of excellence.
Review By Robert S. Youman
The journey continues. In pursuit of the finest in high-end audio stereo integrated amplifiers, last month I auditioned the Aavik I-580 from the Audio Group Denmark. The I-580 certainly deserved its position as the flagship integrated within the Aavik lineup, but it has just recently been upstaged by the new Aavik I-880. Stay tuned, as I will have an opportunity to review the I-880 early on in 2023. Next up is the esteemed Boulder 866 integrated which is the focus of this review. Following that, it seems that I will also have some time with the Vinnie Rossi Brama integrated and the D'Agostino Progression integrated. Hang in there with me folks! Without question, 2023 is going to be a fantastic year for integrated amplifiers!
---> Boulder 866 Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review.

On The Road Again: Featuring Greg Weaver's Home Audio System
The New Apartment Lounge's Maurice Jeffries visits the Audio Analyst at home for the third time.
Report By Maurice Jeffries
What would we do without the much beloved road trip? The promise of exploring parts known, and better yet completely unknown, especially in the wake of the Covid Pandemic, strikes many like as perfect balm to months of virus-driven isolation. So, when my dear friend and fellow audio miscreant, Greg Weaver (known to many of you as the audio analyst, famous for his scrupulously detailed show reports and recent highly informative and entertaining foray into the fractious world of YouTube audio reporting), teased with the promise to hear a tantalizing array of new gear, to tussle with a new puppy (a 100 lbs. Great Dane named Stella), and most importantly, to reconnect face-to-face, I leapt into action.
---> Featuring Greg Weaver's Home Audio System.

01 / 10 / 24

The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2024 In February
The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2024, organized by Audio T, is set to take place at the Delta Hotels by Marriott from Friday, February 23rd through Sunday the 25th. Since Audio T is said to be the UK's oldest independent specialist Hi-Fi retailer, this year's event marks the longest-running consumer Hi-Fi Show within the UK. This year they are pleased to announce that Qobuz will continue as the official true lossless Hi-Res Music Streaming service. Qobuz will also be offering promotions and deals to all attendees.

Held at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol City Centre, the show welcomes exhibitors and visitors from around the world. This year's Bristol Hi-Fi Show will be their 35th! As the Hi-Fi industry takes part, it could very well be the ultimate place to see the latest products and choose the best stereo sound system for you. Note that The Bristol Hi-Fi Show will have several Audio T sales desks, all manned by passionate and knowledgeable staff. They plan to offer fantastic deals and discounts, making it the ideal place to buy as well.

01 / 09 / 24

Southwest Audio Fest Show At Dallas In March 2024
The Southwest Audio Fest (SWAF) arises from the partnership of Gary Gill (Capital Audiofest) and Lou Hinkley (Daedalus Audio) and their success with the Pacific Audio Fest event. Destined to be an annual event for high-end audio, we are pleased to announce a new industry-operated show for another underserved part of the country. Both Gary and Lou worked tirelessly for over two years to secure a contract with an amazing event hotel, which is very safe, family friendly, and great weather in March too! The Hilton / Anatole in Dallas will host the inaugural SWAF show that is slated for March 15th through 17th, 2024, and initially is focusing on a small but solid regional show. Both Gary and Lou are confident that this show will grow and the Anatole has all the room a premium audio event needs.

With over 17 million people and exceptional wealth in this corner of Texas, the local demographics could not be better for premium high-end audio. The location is also very safe and an easy ride from the airport. Couple that with two major hub airports and the ability to get a non-stop flight to Dallas from almost anywhere in this country and beyond, they have reserved an ideal location for a major high-end luxury audio show. You can learn more at our Southwest Audio Fest 2024 show report page.

01 / 08 / 24

CES 2024 Is This Week 
What initially started as a home audio show many decades ago has today morphed into a full-blown consumer technology annual event in Las Vegas. Open from January 9th through 12th, CES is now a global business opportunity where industry insiders can meet with partners, customers, media, investors, and government policymakers from across the globe. One of the major topics this year is artificial intelligence (AI), and without a doubt, it may revolutionize the user experience of many industries and events. AI is indeed already quite prevalent within the music business, as music labels can create their own artificially-produced music and get income directly, without the need to pay human musicians and the like for product creation, licensing, etc.

This week's Media Days include LG Electronics, Volkswagen, Ambient Scientific's Ultra Low Power AI processors, Bosch... and AI + 3D + XR + AR + Metaverse. Premium audio is no longer a mainstay of CES, though there will be quite a few state-of-the-art home theater and immersive audio demonstrations combined with the latest hi-resolution video displays. CES showcases manufacturers, developers, and suppliers of consumer technology hardware, content, technology delivery systems, and more. Lastly, there are a variety of conference / seminar programs where business leaders and big thinkers will directly address what the industry thinks are the most relevant issues of 2024 and beyond.

01 / 06 / 24

Capital Audiofest 2023 Show Report / Chronicles Part 10
The Atrium Rooms
Show Report By Rick Becker
Legacy Audio had their Aeris XD speakers with their dual air motion tweeter and an internally powered subwoofer as their main display, driven by their iV2 Ultra high current, dual-mono stereo amplifier that puts out 1000 Watts @ 4 Ohms. The Wavelet II Time Domain processor acted as the preamplifier with a built-in DAC, Bohmeer Room Correction, and DSP crossover. The woodwork and optional veneers of Legacy speakers are simply gorgeous. At $23,400 for the speakers with 95.4dB/W/m efficiency, these speakers seem to be an exceptional value. The backdrop not only gave lots of details but concealed whatever else was behind to which all those cables were connected.
---> Capital Audiofest 2023 Show Report / Chronicles Part 10.

01 / 05 / 24

Hi-Fi+ January 2024 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: Decisions In Our Buying Habits
Meet Your Maker: Audio Group Denmark
MOON By Simaudio 641 And 681 Int Amp / Streamer
JMR Electroacoustique BLISS Jubilé Speaker
Origin Live Sovereign S Mk5 And Agile Record Player
Lindemann Audio MOVE Loudspeaker
Cyrus Audio Stream XR Network Streamer
Oephi Acoustics Transcendance 2 Speaker
Technics SL-1500C Vinyl LP Turntable
WiiM Mini, Pro, And Pro Plus Music Streamers
Dan Clark Audio Corina Electrostatic Headphones
And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "The world is in the midst of a 'blandemic;' a bland uniformity that exists in all circles of society today. It's down to the little guys to kick against this sweeping tide of vapid mediocrity. And it's down to the rest of us to support those little guys wherever we can. I wish I could lay claim to coining the term 'blandemic' but I heard it first on the radio in a trailer for a discussion about architecture. However, the term resonated and stuck with me. In architecture, apparently, the problem lies with large corporations making increasingly similar decisions about their properties; an expansive head-office of steel and glass, with drab and uniform buildings throughout the rest of the world." See what's within the January 2024 issue of Hi-Fi+ magazine.

01 / 04 / 24

The Premium Audio Experience Is 'Fire' As We Enter 2023
More luxury events, more equipment, and most important more music lovers.
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
As we wish the challenging past few years farewell, I predict 2023 is the year of increased growth and maturity within the luxury audio sector. With more manufacturers and new product launches than ever within the history of high-end audio, this great expanse provides music lovers with an amazing array of choices to satisfy their aural desires. During 2022, luxury hi-fi shows were in full swing all around the world. Furthermore, the great strength of our industry shines brightly as used gear prices have been on the increase too. Like luxury cars, timepieces, etc, the proof is always showcased within the used marketplace as new developments take the forefront in technical and artistic prowess. We all know the past few years have brought many challenges from supply chain and parts availability plus slow shipping and other undesirable disruptions.
---> The Premium Audio Experience Is 'Fire' As We Enter 2023.

Interview: Andrija Curkovic Of Hi-Fi Media
The advantage of today's audio is easy distribution of music.
Interview By Wojciech Pacuła
On this occasion we exchanged a few words about the Internet and printed press with Andrija Curkovic, editor-in-chief of Hi-Fi Media — and not coincidentally. The magazine run by Andrija moved to a digital platform two years ago, after 25 years of being published in print. As you will read below, the reasons were similar. However, just like the Positive Feedback magazine, which had also been published in print for a long time, he succeeded, in exchanging the material world for a virtual one. Andrija Curkovic, editor-in-chief of the online Hi-Fi Media magazine, tells Wojciech Pacula about the transformation as well as his first musical and sonic fascinations, audio in former Yugoslavia and present-day Croatia.
---> Interview: Andrija Curkovic Of Hi-Fi Media.

01 / 03 / 24

Immersive Audio Album's Listener's Choice Awards
The fourth annual Listener's Choice Awards by Immersive Audio Album (IAA) is now in their final round of voting. Concluding on January 17th, you can choose your fan-favorite releases from last year in surround sound and immersive audio. According to their website, "The Grammy Award for Best Immersive Audio Album, formerly Best Surround Sound Album, was first awarded in 2005. Since then, the Recording Academy has always annually recognized the best of the best in surround sound and immersive audio experiences. As music formats have evolved and expanded over the years, so have the audiophile fans - so much so that IAA wants to make sure your voices are heard."

"To acknowledge the difference and impact of different formats in which artists now release their music, we are hosting two distinct categories: one for the best immersive audio album you streamed in 2023, and one for the best immersive audio album you downloaded or purchased on physical disc. Nominate for either or both categories as you wish!" This year's list includes many fan favorites including Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Joni Mitchell, R.E.M., The Band, Neil Young, Mr. Big, Tears For Fears, The Pineapple Thief, The Who, and other great recordings. Visit the Immersive Audio Album and be sure to vote for your favorite.

01 / 02 / 24

Australian Hi-Fi Show Sydney 2024
The Australian Hi-Fi Show 2024 is set to happen from April 5th through 7th April at the luxurious Novotel Sydney Central in Sydney. What Hi-Fi, Australian Hi-Fi, and Sound+Image team up together to produce this successful annual event. Attendees will enjoy experiencing the latest and very best in premium audio and video consumer electronics equipment. A wide range of products will be exhibited from reasonably priced to the world's very best regardless of costs. This is your chance to see and hear a wide range of products from all around the world.

At the Australian Hi-Fi Show Sydney 2024, you can hear live demonstrations of some of the world's most respected premium hi-fi and audio/video brands including high-end audio, video displays, projectors, headphones, multi-channel immersive home theater systems, amplifiers, music/video streamers, loudspeakers, etc. The show invited you to bring your music and enjoy the listening experience in their very comfortable sound lounges. This way you can discover what is right for you. To learn more and get your tickets to the show, see this link.

01 / 01 / 24

Enjoy the Music.com's January Premium Audio Review Magazine
Welcome to a very musical 2024! This month's Review Magazine features special curated videos, an excellent think piece by Jules Coleman, and of course gear reviews too. Reminder: If you start playing "In The Air Tonight" by Phil Collins at 11:56:40 pm, the big drum break will commence at midnight. Be sure to join us for more fun and bonus content within our Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter social media pages. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!

Occasional Column: The Musical Point Of View
Audio systems are communicators - not just modes of communication.
Article By Jules Coleman
The audio community is a community – actually, many overlapping and intersecting ones. Like other communities, its members share norms, support and encourage excellence in one another, celebrate achievements, mourn losses, welcome new additions, and more. Communities communicate. This is an obvious truth; perhaps even a banal one. It's not always bad to be obvious or banal, however. After all, 'obvious truths' come in two varieties: those so obvious they require no defense or argument in their favor; and those that are obvious only after the argument for them has been made. And while many banalities are simply that, the history of ideas is basically a catalog of great works expanding on apparent banalities.
---> Occasional Column: The Musical Point Of View.

FiiO Q15 Desktop / Portable Hi-Res Music DAC And Headphone Amplifier Review
An overachiever that exceeded my expectations.
Review By Tom Lyle
The FiiO Q15 desktop / portable Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Music DAC and headphone amplifier (headamp) is a small device that well earns its' category. One can call it a portable device. Still, it is a bit heavier than your average DPA (Digital Audio Player, at first popularized by Apple's iPod device) that weights 305 grams (about half a pound). Many might consider it more at home when used as part of a desktop system. Some of the features of the Q15 should be familiar to anyone who has had some experience with portable listening devices, but the Q15 goes far beyond what most would expect from this device. It is priced at $399 and is at the top of the FiiO Hi-Res DAC / headphone amp line. Spoiler Alert: Audiophiles should consider the FiiO Q15 a stone-cold bargain.
---> FiiO Q15 Desktop / Portable Hi-Res Music DAC And Headphone Amplifier Review.

Lejonklou Boazu Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review
Enjoying music presented intact, in balance, and fully rendered.
Review By Jules Coleman
A while ago, I was on a call with Don Better, an audio industry veteran, proprietor of Don Better Audio in Cleveland, and accomplished musician. Don has a great ear. When Don Better talks, I listen. During the conversation, I asked if he had heard anything new and impressive. Without hesitation, he mentioned Lejonklou electronics, at the time a brand entirely unknown to me. Don is not prone to hyperbole, and so my interest was piqued when he characterized Lejonklou as 'solid-state Shindo.' Having previously owned full Shindo systems for over a decade, I put Lejonklou on my short list of components to look into. Just prior to the 2021 global health event, during what is euphemistically referred to as 'downsizing,' I had settled into listening to the Auditorium 23 Solovox open baffle speaker as the centerpiece of my go-to listening system.
---> Lejonklou Boazu Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review.

Capital Audiofest 2023 Bonus Videos By Greg Weaver
Join the audio analyst Greg Weaver for his must-see bonus CAF 2023 videos.
Video By Greg Weaver (a.k.a. The Audio Analyst)
First up, we hear from CEO Valerio Cora and Vice President of Sales Allan Haggar at the revitalized Audio Research Corporation. Thanks to Greg's fast-thinking, he was able to get them to take a break from the Capital Audiofest 2023 show to sit down to talk about the recent ownership changes. Val has great plans for Audio Research Corporation that will provide growth of this time-honored iconic American electronics manufacturer. This is some very interesting, and exciting, information.
---> Capital Audiofest 2023 Bonus Videos By Greg Weaver.

Chad Kassem Discusses Steely Dan's Aja UHQR Vinyl LP
An exciting recording and reissue discussion with Fagen, Grundman, Schnee, Kassem, and Kaplan.
Video By Acoustic Sounds
Thanks to Analogue Productions owner Chad Kassem, we're bringing you this curated video discussing the new UHQR 45 rpm vinyl LP release of Steely Dan's legendary Aja recording. We get a rare opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes info! We also enjoy learning more about the classic Steely Dan Aja on UHQR clarity vinyl. Within the video, none other than Donald Fagen reminisces with award-winning recording engineer Bill Schnee, mastering engineer Bernie Grundman, and the Tracking Angle's Fred Kaplan, plus Analogue Productions' own Chad Kassem. Steely Dan enthusiasts rejoice! Bonus video as Bernie Grundman revisits Aja. We're especially overjoyed to present the below video with legendary audio engineer Bernie Grundman.
---> Chad Kassem Discusses Steely Dan's Aja UHQR Vinyl LP.

What Is Important To Men And My Readers
I don't buy records for background music. 
Editorial By Herb Reichert
My first wife used to have this Madison Avenue market research job, and her main assignment was to do surveys-to find out what women wanted and what men thought was important. Not surprisingly, she discovered that women desired economic security and status in the community way more than sex or power or even love. Shockingly, sex was usually seventh or eighth on the woman's list. What really surprised me, though, was what men claimed was important to them. I mean, yeah, sex was always at the top (usually number one or two). But incredibly, right there on the top of the list next to sex and way ahead of money or power or even fame was music. I am not kidding you. And this wasn't only in rock-till-ya-wear-dentures America, no sit.
---> What Is Important To Men And My Readers.

Guerrilla Tactics For The Audiophile Home
You find yourself staring at an amazing jumble of audio parts.
The first time you find him in the kitchen wearing your frilly apron and baking a newly spray-painted amp chassis in the oven you think it's kind of cute. You keep an open mind despite the fumes and try to sympathize with his need for a hammered metal look finish. Then on a dark night you stub your toes on that same chassis lying in the middle of the living room floor and you think, Not so cute. Might as well face the truth. For every audiophile in the world, there's an afflicted spouse, housemate or friend. And, sooner or later, we all must learn the guerrilla tactics necessary for survival in the audiophile home. Your favorite sewing scissors have once again mysteriously disappeared. You must confront him immediately. And remember, please, none of this wimpy you-wouldn't-happen to-have-seen my-scissors-anywhere type stuff.
---> Guerrilla Tactics For The Audiophile Home.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

Previous High-End Audio News
For previous high-end audio and music industry news click here.