High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

02 / 26 / 21

SVS 1000 Pro Series Reference Subwoofers
SVS has launched their new 1000 Pro Series reference subwoofers with 12" high-excursion driver and 325 Watts RMS (820+ Watts peak power). SVS says their new 1000 Pro Series subwoofers are a "revolutionary upgrade over their predecessors with flagship features only available from SVS." The sealed cabinet SB-1000 Pro and ported cabinet PB-1000 Pro features an all-new 12" high-excursion drivers, Sledge STA-325D amplifier with fully discrete MOSFET output, 50 MHz Analog Devices DSP, reimagined cabinet designs, and the innovative SVS subwoofer control smartphone app for advanced tuning, control, and more. Also standard on both models is the SVS subwoofer control smartphone app, the modern and easiest way to control and tune a subwoofer from anywhere within the room.

Loaded with advanced technology from the company's flagship SVS 16-Ultra models, the result is "deep and thunderous low frequency output below the threshold of human hearing, with accuracy in frequency response and crisp speed in transients that bring music and movies to live with convincing realism." Launched originally with the flagship SVS 16-Ultra subwoofers, the 1000 Pro also features convenient control and custom presets via the SVS subwoofer DSP smartphone app for Apple, Android and Amazon devices. The SVS app is the most convenient way to control volume, access multiple DSP functions and program custom presets for one-touch tuning optimized for music, movies, gaming, and more. Uses can also adjust crossover frequencies, a three-band parametric EQ, polarity, room gain and more, all from their favorite seat. Frequency response is from 20Hz to 270Hz (+/-3dB). SB-1000 Pro is premium Black Ash is $499.99, Piano Gloss Black/Piano Gloss White is $599.99, and the SVS PB-1000 Pro in Premium Black Ash is $599.99.

02 / 25 / 21

Innuos PhoenixNET 100Mbps Network Switch
Innuos has announced the release of their new PhoenixNET 100Mbps audiophile-grade network switch ($3499), designed from the ground up for network audio. The PhoenixNET is the realization of Innuos' philosophy of simplicity and signal purity applied to the network switch. Having started with improvements to the Ethernet ports' clock on their flagship Statement, Innuos has now taken the concept to the next level with a completely new network switch design that focuses exclusively on audio use. The design is focused on usability and audiophile performance.

This unit seeks to minimize network switch noise by reducing high-frequency noise through a simpler 100Mbps network switch chip with no power switching regulators. Connected through high-end isolation transformers to individual Amphenol RJ45 shielded jacks with no LEDs and complemented with EMI treatment to further prevent noise into the circuit. A 3ppb 25MHz OCXO oscillator powered by its own linear power supply is connected directly to the network switch chip. Two independent linear power supplies are designed by Sean Jacobs with CX modules and Mundorf Caps to power the OCXO clock and the main board. The top cover is treated to convert vibration into small amounts of heat and sturdy RJ45 ports use silicone rings to minimize vibration coming from the chassis.

World Premiere Review!
Dynamic Sounds Associates Pre I Linestage Review
Articulate, smooth and magically engaging.
Review By Greg Weaver
I First met Doug Hurlburt, the man behind Dynamic Sounds Associates, some 20 years ago now; we were members of the same extended southern Maryland listening group. Doug has designed and built audio equipment for his own uses since his high school days. On my first visit to his home in (then) Potomac, MD, I was impressed by his clearly advanced comprehension of electronics and his passionate love of music. He had recently done an incredible mod, rebuilding his KEF CS5 loudspeakers, including totally redesigned crossover networks. This rebuild led to his rewriting Richard Small's theory of passive radiator loudspeakers, all published in the March 2000 issue of the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society. Further, and more to the point here, he had already built and installed his own end table sized amplifiers, that, to be blunt, sounded wonderful.
---> Dynamic Sounds Associates Pre I linestage review.

02 / 24 /21

NAD MDC USB Module For Computer Audio Playback
NAD Electronics announced the immediate availability of the latest module within their Modular Design Construction (MDC) portfolio, the MDC USB DSD ($499). The module adds USB 2 audio for PCM and DSD playback capability to six of the company's most popular stereo units (M33, M32, M12, C 388, C 368, and C 658). With NAD's Modular Design Construction (MDC), adding the latest cutting-edge technology can be as simple as a software upgrade and adding a new hardware module into your stereo amplifier. The MDC USB DSD module allows users to experience the convenience of computer music playback and streaming, in high resolution up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM and DSD up to DSD256, combined with the music performance of their NAD hi-fi system.

Thanks to the Asynchronous USB connection with the MDC USB DSD module, computer sound has been eliminated so music flows freely. The module bypasses the computer's low-quality DAC, clocks and associated circuitry that cause jitter and distortion by using the high-quality DAC in select NAD amplifiers. According to NAD, "Users can listen to the details and dynamics reproduced from the original recording in their full glory rather than the noise and distortion of the typically mediocre computer audio stages."

02 / 23 / 21

Spotify Hi-Fi Offers Legacy 1980's Low-Quality CD Streaming
While not true lossless high-resolution like Qobuz, Amazon HD, 2L, etc, or licensed proprietary formats as another service streams, Spotify is going to bump from lossy MP3-like quality to to 1980's technology by streaming CD quality. According to Spotify, "Artists and fans have told us that sound quality is important to them. We agree, and that's why today at Stream On we announced Spotify HiFi. Beginning later this year, Premium subscribers in select markets will be able to upgrade their sound quality to Spotify HiFi and listen to their favorite songs.... High-quality music streaming is consistently one of the most requested new features by our users. Spotify HiFi will deliver music in CD-quality, lossless audio format to your device and Spotify Connect-enabled speakers, which means fans will be able to experience more depth and clarity while enjoying their favorite tracks."

Obviously this is far lower quality than Qobuz and other modern true high-resolution services. Note that their higher-priced Premium service will be coupled with Spotify's user experience, yet unfortunately perhaps not in the way true music enthusiasts want to enjoy it as they do on Qobuz with 24-bit/192kHz music streams (versus Spotify's 'improved' lower quality 16-bit/44.1kHz CD format resolution). Spotify HiFi will begin rolling out their 1980's CD quality streaming in select markets later this year. Perhaps in the next year or two Spotify will offer the two decade old (circa 2000 technology) streaming of 24-bit/96kHz or better for true lossless hi-res sound quality many expect today. For now, Enjoy the Music.com welcomes Spotify users to 1980's digital audio technology.

02 / 22 / 21

Exxelia Unveils New Flat Pack Electrolytic Capacitors
Exxelia has recently made available their new flat pack electrolytic capacitors, as the company says Cubisic SLP is a "new game changing" flat pack aluminum electrolytic capacitors. Providing twice as much capacitance as any other available flat packs on the market in the exact same volume, this new series also offers more than twice the lifetime. Engineers tackling complex designing requirements and looking for an easily to integrate product that will save space and gain reliability thanks to the use of improved materials. Because the Cubisic SLP can resist 50G vibrations and withstand 92,000 feet altitude, it is perfectly suitable for cockpits, actuation and power generation functions of commercial and military aircrafts, as well as radars and laser systems.

Capacitance from 100μF to 68 000μF
Voltages from 10V to 450V
Life time of 5000 hours at 85°C
Operating Temperature -55°C to +85°C
50g vibrations / 92,000 altitude
RoHS compliant configurations available

02 / 19 / 21

Totaldac d100 2.5-Way Floorstanding Loudspeakers
Totaldac's d100 large floorstanding speakers (€13,900 a pair including VAT in Europe, €12,800 without VAT) have been designed to offer the most natural music reproduction while being compatible with your living room and without being too expensive. Their high sensitivity of 98dB/W/m allows them to produce a very controlled sound at all frequencies with realistic and rich bass. This makes them suitable for all types of music genres from classical music to electro and prog. Totaldac's d100 speakers are so fast that you get the "feeling of being there" with most music tracks, not just with some selected tracks.

Totaldac provides a 20-day home trial, just like the company's DACs, streamers, and amplifiers. This 2.5-way design features two 12" drivers, yet the lowermost one is for bass, as the upper 12" driver produces midrange as well. The tweeter is horn-loaded to ensure high-sensitivity and excellent sound dispersion characteristics. In room frequency response is from 35Hz to 20kHz. These speakers present an 8 Ohm load (average) to the amplifier, which is ideal for low power vacuum tube and solid-state gear. Made in France and protection grills can be ordered separately, these speakers are 320mm x 470mm x 1180mm (WxDxH) and weigh 38 kgs.

02 / 18 / 21

McIntosh Announces MCD85 SACD/CD Player
McIntosh is proud to introduce their MCD85 SACD/CD player ($4500). You can immerse yourself in your music as the MCD85's open chassis design is not only a serious piece of music hardware, but it shows that you are serious about your love of music says McIntosh. They also say it's clear that many people want their home stereo system not to blend in, but instead to be distinctive looking. To be put on display. To be a conversation starter. To make the statement that "A Serious Music Lover Lives Here."

McIntosh's MCD85 SACD / CD player handles SACD and CD music formats as well as DVD Data Discs. Numerous file formats can be played from these discs including AAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD (up to DSD128), FLAC, MP3, WAV, and WMA. The USB Audio input supports up to DSD256 and DXD 384kHz, and can be used to stream digital music from a computer or other digital storage device. There's also two coax and two optical digital inputs that support PCM signals up to 192kHz. Conversion is via a quad balanced, eight-channel, 32-bit/192kHz DAC. Four DAC channels are dedicated to the left audio channel, and four to the right audio channel to ensure truly exceptional stereo sound reproduction. Both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA fixed analog stereo outputs are available to connect the MCD85 to your preamplifier, integrated amplifier, and other home audio system components.

Metaxas & Sins Debuts Papillon Stereo Reel-To-Reel
Metaxas & Sins have joined forces to release their new Papillon stereo reel-to-reel stereo tape recorder and playback machine. This is said to be the first 100% technologically new professional reel-to-reel tape recorder in a half century. Papillon, which means "Butterfly" in French, is at once a superb audio recording device as well as a masterful work of industrial design. Kostas Metaxas, the creator of the Papillon, has a long history of innovation and achievement as an artist, designer and audio engineer. Metaxas was drawn to this project after a lengthy search for a device that could equal the old reel-to-reel recorders, yet there is no modern equipment that could perform as well as the older technology is his opinion. Kostas Metaxas' desire was to produce reference recordings to assist with the development of his hi-fi systems With the Papillon.

YG Acoustics Hailey 2.2 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
The middleweight contender....
Review By Phil Gold
Cards on the table. I've owned the YG Carmel and the YG Carmel 2, each of which I've reviewed in these pages in January 2012 and July 2015 respectively. You can read them here and weep. I'm addicted to the ultra-high resolution, low distortion, lightning reflexes, dynamic range and the holographic imaging of the Carmel speakers.  They are not for everyone. Due to the particular way they are constructed from billets of aircraft grade aluminum, they cost a lot of money, and due to their relatively small size, they don't reach down all that deep. The sealed box design does provide a superbly fast accurate bass, but while the quality is high, the quantity is limited.
---> YG Acoustics Hailey 2.2 loudspeaker review.

02 / 17 / 21

Music Lovers Win At Enjoy the Music.com!
John Tampouratzis wins a Schiit Lyr 3 with Multibit DAC option!
Review By John Tampouratzis
During December 2020, Enjoy the Music.com and Schiit joined forces to give away a Lyr 3 with Multibit DAC option valued at $699! Here are a few words from John Tampouratzis in Greece, who won this wonderful giveaway! I WON THE PRIZE!!! I'm feeling lucky!!! Since the advent of social media, the world has become smaller, and information, news, and knowledge more immediate. It was on the 4th of January when I received the email that I've won. I looked at the sender and the CC notification....
---> John Tampouratzis wins a Schiit Lyr 3 with Multibit DAC!

Nordost Introduces Their Premium QKORE Wire
Nordost's QKORE Wire is the final piece to the grounding puzzle when it comes to Nordost's comprehensive parallel grounding system, the QKORE. Originally introduced alongside the QKORE in 2017, the complementary QKORE Wire provides the path of least resistance to ground for the stray, high-frequency, low-voltage potentials that negatively impact the performance of your sound system. While one of the design directives of the QKORE Wire was to facilitate the transfer of extremely low voltages from electronics to the Ground Unit, another highly important (and an often overlooked) aspect that this component brings to the grounding system is mechanical benefits.

In order to even further advance the already staggering enhancements that the QKORE brings to two-channel hifi systems, Nordost has decided to introduce the Premium QKORE Wire. Nordost's new Premium QKORE Wire is a mechanically tuned cable that utilizes Nordost's patented Micro Mono-Filament technology, combined with extruded FEP insulation, and constructed with a 14 AWG, silver-plated OFC, solid core conductor. The augmentation made in its design allows for increased functionality of the QKORE grounding system, with an even quieter background, and therefore the ability to deliver a more full and realistic soundstage. In order to accommodate the vast majority of components that could exist in any one hifi system, the QKORE Wire is available with the following termination options: spade, banana, male-XLR, female-XLR, BNC, RCA, USB-A, USB-B, and RJ45.

02 / 16 / 21

audioXpress' March 2021 Issue Is Now Available
audioXpress' March 2021 issue features The Science and Physics of High-End Mic-Preamp Design (Part 2), Clever Engineering By Ethan Winer, X-Altra Moving Coil/Moving Magnet RIAA EQ Preamplifier (Part 2), Very Low Distortion Headphone Driver, Changing Processes for Remote Collaboration, A Real-World View of Test and Measurements, Virtins Multi Instrument Measurement Software, and more.

Within his editorial, J. Martins says, "The last 12 months have been challenging but they also paved the way for positive changes. In just one year, communications, online commerce, and the digital economy in general, evolved at an accelerated pace. The global pandemic made clear that investments in digital needed to be a priority in many areas that were still lagging behind, as well as reinforcing the digital infrastructure that now supports the entire economy. While we all agree that a bigger focus on privacy and security is needed, we have seen how beneficial it can be to have systems networked, connected, and more accessible than ever." See what's within this issue of audioXpress.

YG Acoustics New DualCoherent 2 Sonja Upgrades
YG Acoustics just announced their DualCoherent 2, which is a significant advance in one of their core and unique technologies. DualCoherent 2 builds on YG Acoustics' crossover technology to further optimize it through the powerful modeling capabilities of Cambridge Acoustic Sciences (CAS). Working together with CAS, the company measured the electronic and acoustic behavior of their proprietary drive units to an unprecedented accuracy. Leveraging the petaflop compute cluster at CAS, YG were able to build detailed models addressing the elaborate interplay of amplifier, crossover, drive units, cabinet, and listening room — all simulated playing high-resolution music.

Designed and optimized exactingly around the detailed phase and frequency behavior of the YG Acoustics proprietary drivers, DualCoherent 2 matches phase to an extraordinary level at the crossover point. In addition, current requirements are substantially reduced, further extending the range of amplifier choices available to customers. DualCoherent 2 is implemented with the finest audio electronic components, including the massive and highly vibration-resistant ViseCoil bass inductors machined and built in-house by YG. Other components include cost-no-object choices such as Mundorf MCap SUPREME EVO SilverGold capacitors and MResist Supreme resistors. This upgrade can be accomplished "in the field" as there's no need to return speakers to the factory.

02 / 15 / 21

A/V RoomService Equipment Vibration Protectors (EVP)
A/V RoomService's new Equipment Vibration Protectors (EVP) are the company's most effective, easiest, and least expensive means of controlling unwanted vibrations. EVP are lab-proven vibration isolation feet for high fidelity playback and recording equipment, as well as musical instruments including guitar, bass and keyboard cabinets, microphone stands, etc. EVPs are said to allow equipment to perform optimally, quiet the room, and prevent vibrations from being transmitted to adjoining spaces. Vibrations and resonances are no longer heard, leaving only the pure original loudspeaker signals. EVPs de-couple vibration transmission by transforming the mechanical energy into heat energy.

EVP Platforms are for speakers and electronics, and perform just as the regular EVPs do. Use one pair of EVP Platforms per component. They can run front to rear or side to side. This makes them a very universal fit. EVP Platforms have the same performance characteristics (>90% vibration mitigation from about 5Hz. and up), yet offer better stabilization says AV Roomservice. They are typically finished with #4 brushed stainless steel with options of black felt and wraps of vinyl leather, marble and carbon fiber for a small upcharge. EVP Platforms can also be made with custom dimensions, densities, vinyl wraps and core colors.

02 / 12 / 21

Innovative Keyboardist Chick Corea Passes Away
According to Chick Corea's website, "It is with great sadness we announce that on February 9th, Chick Corea passed away at the age of 79, from a rare form of cancer which was only discovered very recently. Throughout his life and career, Chick relished in the freedom and the fun to be had in creating something new, and in playing the games that artists do. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and a great mentor and friend to so many. Through his body of work and the decades he spent touring the world, he touched and inspired the lives of millions. Though he would be the first to say that his music said more than words ever could, he nevertheless had this message for all those he knew and loved, and for all those who loved him."

"I want to thank all of those along my journey who have helped keep the music fires burning bright. It is my hope that those who have an inkling to play, write, perform or otherwise, do so. If not for yourself then for the rest of us. It's not only that the world needs more artists, it's also just a lot of fun. And to my amazing musician friends who have been like family to me as long as I've known you: It has been a blessing and an honor learning from and playing with all of you. My mission has always been to bring the joy of creating anywhere I could, and to have done so with all the artists that I admire so dearly — this has been the richness of my life." Chick's family will of course appreciate their privacy during this difficult time of loss.

02 / 11 / 21

World Premiere Review!
Stromtank S2500 Battery Power Supply
The joys of a pure sine wave with battery power.
Review By Tom Lyle
I've been stricken with something I like to call an "audiophile illusion of grandeur" for quite some time. It started long ago, when I first discovered that the AC power supplied to my stereo system was less than adequate. This wasn't too difficult to figure out, because in the daytime my system sounded lousy, at least compared to how it sounded at night. This continues to this day. This is because my home shares the power my electric company provides with many customers, including commercial establishments, homes, and more. As a result, the sound of my system suffers. At about 6:00 PM the system begins to sound better. After 9:00 PM my system sounds even better, and can transport me to sonic nirvana, as if I can aurally detect the source of the recording, as if I've traveled in some sort of sonic time machine.
---> Stromtank S2500 battery power supply review.

Will You Be 3D Printing Your Next Hi-Fi Audio System?
Researches at MIT have successfully fabricated fully functional drones. Their CSAIL "LaserFactory" system automates the full process for making functional devices in one system. According to MIT, "While 3D printers have now made it possible to produce a range of objects that include product models, jewelry, and novelty toys, we still lack the ability to fabricate more complex devices that are essentially ready-to-go right out of the printer. A group from MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) recently developed a new system to print functional, custom-made devices and robots, without human intervention. Their single system uses a three-ingredient recipe that lets users create structural geometry, print traces, and assemble electronic components like sensors and actuators."

CSAIL PhD student Martin Nisser says that this type of "one-stop shop" could be beneficial for product developers, makers, researchers, and educators looking to rapidly prototype things like wearables, robots, and printed electronics. "Making fabrication inexpensive, fast, and accessible to a layman remains a challenge," says Nisser, lead author on a paper about LaserFactory that will appear in the ACM Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems in May. "By leveraging widely available manufacturing platforms like 3D printers and laser cutters, LaserFactory is the first system that integrates these capabilities and automates the full pipeline for making functional devices in one system."

02 / 10 / 21

Enjoy the Music.com And MAYORS Celebrates Luxury Timepieces During Florida Audio Expo 2020
Report By Steven R. Rochlin
In 2020 Enjoy the Music.com is celebrating our 25th Anniversary and wanted to do something extra special. During the Florida Audio Expo we worked closely with MAYORS Jewellers, the Southeast's leading multi-brand retailer of jewelry and luxury timepieces retailer, for an exciting evening devoted to mechanical timepieces. For those unfamiliar, MAYORS has 17 stores within Florida and Georgia and is owned by Watches Of Switzerland, a leading luxury timepiece and jewelry company for over 50 (!) years, and so it took a bit of doing to make this event happen.
---> Enjoy the Music.com and MAYORS celebrates luxury timepieces during the Florida Audio Expo 2020.

Børrensen Z5 Large Floorstanding Loudspeakers
The Børrresen Acoustics Z5 speakers (€40,000 per pair) are the top-of-the-line model of their Z-series. This huge 2.5-way floorstanding loudspeaker is equipped with a ribbon planar tweeter, plus two midrange / bass and four bass drivers. Technology behind the Z-series consists of electronic components that are either adopted from the highly-acclaimed and award-winning 0-series, which is completely redesigned or are innovative spin-offs resulting from the company's extensive audio research activities. The magnet system in the Z-series is a brand new construction from the invention of their patented iron-free driver system in the 0-series. It is possible to reduce induction to an amazing 0.04 mH, which is approximately 10 times lower than that of common driver systems according to their press release. By linearizing the magnetic field, the driver is less affected by the actual movement. This makes it also much easier for an amplifier to control the driver.

02 / 07 / 21

Virtual SchiitrMeet As Mike Gets Edumacational
During this month's virtual meet-up, Mike Moffat of Schiit Audio wants to make this more than an AMA thing this time, so he's picked a few things he'd like to go in-depth on. This doesn't mean you can't ask questions, but better to keep them on-theme. Here's what he's talking about:

Mike Talks Multibit and Sol
What is multibit digital conversion in audio?
How was it first developed and used?
How is it different from more traditional DAC technologies?
What makes it a good choice for hifi?
What is the role of digital filters in the DAC process? How much influence over the overall sound do filters make?
How do you approach designing an analog media such as SOL differently than a DAC?
What are some key takeaways from a design perspective after your experience launching the Sol turntable?
How do measurements fit into the overall process of designing either of these products? How is it different from Analog Vs Digital?

You can attend Mike's live and unedited Virtual SchiitrMeet on February 10th at 4pm (PST) on the company's Facebook and YouTube page.

Live Webinar: Reviewers On Reviewing
Many music enthusiasts rely on audio reviews, not only for entertainment, but to assist in purchasing decisions. At their best, audio reviews can do even more: they can provoke us to examine our own personal audio experiences by comparing them to those of the reviewer's. Over time, reviewer-reader relationships can become quite intimate: morphing into powerful tools that assist us with refining our understanding while developing our own personal audio aesthetic. Fortunately, reviewers are all different.

Their personalities, methods, and viewpoints, are as personal as their fingerprint. As readers we naturally connect with some more than others. This AXPONA webinar via Zoom will provide an opportunity for a range of audio reviewer's to explain a little about who they are as people, how they do their job, and what they wish consumers knew. Most importantly, it will present an opportunity for audiophiles to ask those questions they wish they could have asked while reading the reviews. You are invited to watch this event live on February 10th at 7pm (EDT). You can register to attend at this link.

02 / 06 / 21

Reference Recordings Beethoven Symphony No. 9
Reference Recordings proudly presents Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in a new and definitive interpretation from Manfred Honeck and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. They are excited that this new release is part of the Orchestra's 125th Anniversary joy! Other Orchestra events will include a weekend musical celebration and the release of a digital program on February 27, the 125th anniversary date of their very first concert. Featuring Christina Landshamer (soprano), Jennifer Johnson Cano (mezzo-soprano), Werner Güra (tenor), Shenyang (bass-baritone), and the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, Reference Recordings' FR-741SACD release is a hybrid SACD containing 5.0 and Stereo SACD, plus legacy stereo CD with HDCD (downloads are Stereo-only).

This album was recorded in beautiful and historic Heinz Hall, home of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, in superb audiophile sound. Maestro Honeck honors us again with his meticulous music notes, in which he gives us great insight into his unique interpretation as well as the history and musical structure of Beethoven's most famous symphony. This release is the eleventh in the highly acclaimed Pittsburgh Live! series of multi-channel hybrid SACD releases on the FRESH! imprint from Reference Recordings. This series has received Grammy nominations in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

02 / 05 / 21

Hi-Fi+ February 2021 High-End Audio Magazine
Hi-Fi+'s February 2021 issue features reviews of the Wilson Audio Sabrinax floorstanding loudspeaker, Kudios Audio Titan 707 floorstanding loudspeaker, Moonriver Audio Model 404 integrated amplifier, Atma-Sphere M-60 MK 3.3 output transformerless power amps, Dynaudio Heritage Special stand-mount loudspeaker, Stack Audio Link II network bridge, Hegel Audio V10 phono stage, PMC Twenty5.26i floorstanding loudspeaker, Sonus Faber Lumina III floorstanding loudspeaker, NAD M10 / PSB Alpha T20 / Bluesound Pulse Mini 2i multi-room networked streaming, Ansuz Acoustics Powerswitch X audiophile network switch, Eearmen TR-Amp portable DAC / headphone amp, Kuzma Platis 54 / Damping Feet equipment support systems, Cardas Audio Clear HS USB cable, Black Rhodium Charleston DCT++ CS loudspeaker cable, EMT JSD Pure Black / STX-5 / 10 moving coil cartridge and step-up transformer, and Meze Audio Rai Solo universal-fit in-ear monitors.

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says, "Hi-Fi+ was saddened to learn of the passing of Tim de Paravicini, who died on December 17, 2020 following a months-long battle with liver cancer. 'The Baron' as he was known, was an electronics designer of great note; his EAR / Yoshino product line was commonly considered to be among the finest truly modern valve audio electronics made, his rebuilds of classic tape machines were internationally respected by studio and enthusiast alike, and he was also the brains behind masterpieces like the Musical Fidelity A1. An engineer's engineer, Tim seemed to have an innate understanding of – and an opinion on – how things work, irrespective of whether it was an aircraft aileron, a F1 engine, a suspension bridge or a preamplifier. Tim was also one of that all-too-rapidly disappearing breed of polymath eccentrics who settled on – and in no small part enriched – the wider world of audio." See what's within this issue of Hi-Fi+ magazine at this link.

McIntosh MHA200 Vacuum Tube Stereo Headphone Amplifier 
McIntosh is proud to introduce the MHA200 vacuum tube stereo headphone amplifier ($2500) designed for discerning headphone enthusiasts who demand the most from their headphones. Its versatile set of connectivity options, including XLR balanced inputs and outputs, allows for nearly all stereo headphone types to be connected to enjoy an extraordinary personal listening experience. A pair of 12AT7 and 12BH7A dual triode vacuum tubes power the compact MHA200. The 12AT7 vacuum tubes amplify the incoming low-level audio signal while the 12BH7A tubes provide the power to drive the output to the headphones with low distortion. The MHA200 uses a pair of McIntosh's Unity Coupled Circuit output transformers to deliver pristine audio.

For attaching headphones, there are three options: a pair of three-pin balanced XLR connectors for dedicated Left and Right balanced output; a four-pin balanced XLR connector for balanced stereo output; and a 1/4" stereo headphone jack. For connecting the MHA200 to a home music system's source components, it has one set each of both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs. Thanks to the MHA200's small size of just 6.185 x x 9.185 (WxD) it can be placed close to the listening position for ease use. The Unity Coupled Circuit transformers have been adapted to produce four headphone impedance ranges of 32 – 100, 100 – 250, 250 – 600, and 600 – 1000 Ohms at 500mW so that virtually every headphone can receive legendary McIntosh sound quality and performance.

02 / 04 / 21

KEF Mu3 IEMs Designed By Ross Lovegrove
KEF is excited to introduce their Mu3 noise cancelling wireless earphones designed by visionary Ross Lovegrove. Engineered by KEF's UK acoustic team, the new Mu3 earphones are said to "deliver pristine, high-resolution sound on the move and provide music lovers the freedom to hear every note, every word, every detail whether on their commute, at the gym, or on the sofa" says the company. In 2021, KEF celebrates 60 years of an uncompromising commitment for world-leading audio technology.

The audio performance of Mu3 earphones benefits from KEF's specially tuned Active Noise Cancellation technology. It enables the Mu3 to eliminate external noise without affecting the details that bring music to life. KEF's Mu3 are made with an 8.2mm full-range dynamic driver, expertly tuned by the company's engineering team to deliver "an exceptionally dynamic and well balanced, coherent sound with rich midrange, detailed bass and crisp high tones". Design by Ross Lovegrove to ensure the Mu3 earphones look as good as they sound, this innovative approach and flowing sculptural forms brings a visual dimension to this design. The ergonomic design of KEF's Mu3 ensures the listener has a comfortable audio experience, while Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity ensures ease of use.

CH Precision I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier Review
A new paradigm for the integrated amplifier platform.
Review By Greg Weaver
CH Precision was founded by Florian Cossy and Thierry Heeb, two alumni of the highly influential and innovative Swiss high-end audio firm Goldmund. Given the wide-reaching acclaim and the host of industry awards they have garnered since their founding, it is hard to believe this company is just rounding out its first decade! For reasons that will become clearer as you get further into this evaluation, I must preface this examination by noting that my experiences with their early offerings had left me somewhat wanting.
---> CH Precision I1 universal integrated amplifier review.

02 / 03 / 21

93,226 Attendees At NAMM's Believe In Music Event
According to NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants), a not-for-profit association that promotes the pleasures and benefits of making music and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry, there were 93,226 industry leaders, buyers, sellers, music educators, artists, media and music makers from 187 countries and territories gathered this past week to take part in NAMM's Believe In Music week. Their online global gathering seeks to unify and support the people who bring music to the world. The event, which spanned Monday, January 18 through Friday, January 22, saw industry professionals virtually convene in 983 special sessions and events. There was 611 hours of live-streamed and programmed content, which included nearly 200 education, training and professional development sessions presented by 391 speakers, and experience new products from 1227 participating brands in the Marketplace, all to celebrate the power and resilience of music and to plan for the year ahead.

02 / 02 / 21

Pro-Ject Phono Box RS2, Sweep It, And More
New from Pro-Ject includes their Phono Box RS2 ($1999) reference class phono preamplifier with unique impedance control, Phono Box S2 Ultra ($349) discreet phono preamplifier that integrates luxury with audiophilia and Sweep It S2 ($129) magnetically stabilized record broom that is constructed in collaboration with Klaus Mick and his patented technology. Also new are their Sweep It E ($99) easy and effective cleaning arm that allows you to enjoy listening to your records while they are being cleaned and Phono Box Ultra 500 ($399) that combines luxury and performance in a unique phono preamplifier that celebrates the 500,000th phono box from Pro-Ject.

Pro-Ject's Phono Box RS2 fully balanced, fully discrete phono preamplifier supports both MM and MC cartridges, is a true dual mono design, and employs fully discrete hardware design as there are no OpAmps. Fully passive RIAA amd DECCA equalization feed into both fully balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA analog outputs. There are both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog inputs as well. The unit has a unique continuously variable input impedance loading and channel balance control to match every cartridge even while playing. Pro-Ject's Phono Box RS2 is available in silver or black metal casing.

02 / 01 / 21

Enjoy the Music.com's February Review Magazine
Enjoy the Music.com's February Review Magazine features a variety of gear reviews, think pieces, plus a special editorial featuring hi-fi gear video influencers! See Enjoy the Music.com's February Review Magazine at this link.

YouTube Vloggers: Hi-Fi Over Wi-Fi
Elevating your listening experience is a journey well worth taking.
Article By Emiko
The internet is a vast frontier, ever-expanding, and ever filled with noise. But somewhere deep within the recesses of the chatter, the opinions spilling forth like Biblical fact, is a small solar system called hi-fi. And the hi-fi system (see what I did there?) is like a high school cafeteria. Lots of different groups sitting at various tables. (Okay, okay, we went from interstellar to lunchrooms. Follow me here, I'm going somewhere with this!) There are the vinyl junkies, the vintage fiends, the tinker-ers, the digital folks, the analog folks, the "give me tubes or give me death" group, the budget folks, the high-end audio folks, and probably a few more tables I haven't yet graced but plan on perusing through. What I can tell you, from attending a ton of audio shows (not to mention running one — T.H.E. Show) is that there are four common threads that get knotted up, and occasionally connect us all.
---> YouTube Vloggers: Hi-Fi Over Wi-Fi.

Audio Forecast
Over The Horizon
Some thoughts on the evolution of pro audio over the foreseeable future.
Article By Peter Mapp, PhD, FASA, FAES
Predicting how audio-related developments will unfold over the next year is an almost impossible task, given the influence and effects of the current novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As I write these words, the United Kingdom is in the middle of another lockdown; the same is the case for several other European countries. That was predictable, just as the second wave of COVID-19 infection was entirely predictable. What is not predictable, however, is exactly how all this will affect the pro-audio business over the next year or so. At present, there is a strange dichotomy: Some manufacturers, integrators and other firms are doing OK or are only down a few percentage points; by contrast, others are struggling to survive or, indeed, they didn't make it. My heart goes out to those in that position.
---> Audio Forecast: Over The Horizon.

World Premiere Review!
Mojo Mystique EVO B4B 21 DAC (2021 Version)
It sounds like music.
Review By Dr. Matt Clott
Mojo Audio, located in Albuquerque, NM, is the brainchild and passion of Benjamin Zwickel, President, CEO, and chief designer. Although not as well recognized as the big-name manufacturers, Benjamin has established his brand as a manufacturer direct digital source alternative that offers enormous value in performance and routinely hits way above its price point. Do not confuse this Mojo with the Chord Mojo portable DAC... not the same. I have previously had a positive experience with his DACs within my pre-reviewer days and I was thrilled at the opportunity to formally review the Mojo Audio Mystique EVO B4B 21 D/A Converter. Having gone through several iterations, the current model line-up nomenclatures are all Mystique EVO 21 DACs.
---> Mojo Mystique EVO B4B 21 DAC (2021 version).

World Premiere Review!
Clarus CODA USB DAC / HeadAmp Review
High-performance USB-DAC with headphone amplifier and MQA.
Review By Rick Becker
Fingering through pens, twistos, and a highlighters
To find the vintage die cast letter opener,
Veteran of bills and invoices opened by my father and his father before him
And me after both of them. Some things last forever.
Old tools and such.
Most businesses, like most people, music and audio gear come and go.
Today this tarnished brass blade is used to carefully open
The tucked-in end flap of the point-of-sale box
Containing the new Clarus CODA.
A first batch sample of the hi-rez USB DAC with headphone amplifier...
---> Clarus CODA USB DAC / headamp review.

Black Cat Graceline Level-2 Interconnect & Speaker Cable Review
Worth every freaking penny because your system will appreciate it.
Review By Tom Lyle
In March of 2019, I reviewed Black Cat's 3200 interconnect, speaker, and digital cable in Enjoy The Music. I was very impressed by these relatively affordable cables. The Graceline (by Black Cat Cable) Level-2 interconnects and speaker cables reviewed here are a considerable step up from those cables in sound quality. In case one might not have heard of Black Cat cables, and even if you have, I strongly suggest one read the "We Ask 10 Questions..." interview with Chris Sommovigo, which appeared in November 2020's issue as part of the celebration of Enjoy The Music's 25th Anniversary. In this interview, I learned that Mr. Sommovigo is a very knowledgeable, level-headed designer and inventor. Some of his cables were very sonically successful, such as his digital cable, of which he sold several of his designs to Kimber Kable.
---> Black Cat Graceline Level-2 interconnect & speaker cable review.

Read All Articles, Hi-Fi Gear Reviews, Etc.
We have more wonderful high-end audio equipment reviews, think pieces, etc within Enjoy the Music.com's February Review Magazine available at this link.

Previous High-End Audio News
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