High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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04 / 24 / 25

Acora Acoustics' Granite Loudspeakers
The origins and sound of granite.
TAS' Lee Scoggins Talks With Acora Acoustics Founder Valerio Cora
With the nearly universal consensus of praise and earning many show awards during the Florida International Audio Expo 2023, the Acora Acoustics, VAC, Oracle Audio, Aurender, LampizatOr, and Cardas Audio room was a sound to behold! As one of the best-sounding exhibition room during the recent Tampa show, it brings us joy to showcase a very recent interview by The Absolute Sound's Lee Scoggins as he sits down with Acora Acoustics founder Valerio Cora. They both discuss Acora's relatively recent emergence in the audiophile world. Within this video, you'll discover why using granite as an enclosure plays a big role in the loudspeaker's overall performance and Valerio's beginnings with high-end audio. Enjoy the Music.com's Steven R. Rochlin reported on the Florida show and said, " My wife and I loved the sound, as it was fast, clean, and immensely musical."
---> Acora Acoustics' Granite Loudspeakers.

The Audio Analyst's Conversation With Parasound's CEO David Sheriff
We welcome new leadership for a highly-respected luxury audio company.
Video By Greg Weaver (a.k.a. The Audio Analyst)
Today we hear from the new CEO of Parasound, David Sheriff. He took the time to outline his thoughts and plans for the future of one of today's most respected audio manufacturers. Give him a listen and see what the future of Parasound holds. On December 14th (2022) I received an e-mail from Parasound's PR representative, Gorden Sell. It announced that Richard Schram had retired and sold the company he had founded in 1981 to an entrepreneur active in product growth and supply-chain management, David Sheriff. Now, as David had no real history in the audio industry, I knew nothing about him, so I was inspired to do some research. I soon learned that he graduated from the US Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering in 1988, and then served five years as an A-10 fighter pilot.
---> The Audio Analyst's Conversation With Parasound's CEO David Sheriff.

04 / 23 / 25

HIGH END 2025 Audiophile Show Report & Info
The HIGH END 2025 audiophile / immersivephile event is an internationally renowned audio exhibition that will take place from May 15 to May 18, 2025, at the M.O.C. Event Center in Munich, Germany. This event is a must-visit for anyone passionate about high-quality audio technology, as it brings together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and in open to consumers from over 40 countries. The HIGH END 2025 exhibition will feature hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations in consumer electronics technology, including hi-fi audio, high-end video, home theater, and bespoke entertainment solutions for millionaires and billionaires alike. Visitors can expect to experience groundbreaking trends, technological advances, and exclusive world premieres.

This year's brand ambassador is the Norwegian singer Anette Askvik, who embodies the event's motto "Passion for Music". Her hypnotic sound and deep emotion perfectly reflect the passion for promoting audio technology that the HIGH END 2025 exhibition aims to convey. Following a revamped campaign in 2024, the organizer is building on the successful series, where prominent celebrities from the music scene underscore the mission of the HIGH END show. "We made a conscious decision in 2024 to forgo a testimonial. We used the break to reflect upon our concept and to become inspired by some fresh new ideas", says Stefan Dreischärf, Managing Director of the organizer HIGH END SOCIETY Service GmbH. "We are proud to have enlisted Anette Askvik as our brand ambassador and now look forward to continuing the series with her", Dreischärf adds. "Her art, which she infuses with emotional depth and technical precision, perfectly reflects our values. She stands for the passion with which we seek to promote audio technology, and which she expresses in her music."
---> Learn More And See Enjoy the Music.com's HIGH END 2025 Show Report.

04 / 22 / 25

Part 2: AXPONA 2025 Show Report 15th Floor
A fantastic voyage filled with musical fun.
AXPONA 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
Since Heaven 11 Audio is from Montreal, I've noticed their integrated amp for years, as I also cover the Montreal 2025 audiophile show. They are on the brink of producing the new Mk III version as I write. It is their only product, but it comes in Classic (with DAC, Bluetooth, phono stage, and analog inputs) and Spartan editions. You also get to customize it with a choice of ICEpower or Hypex (+$250), black or silver finish, a choice of knobs and tubes. There is a configurator on their website to sort it all out. I'm big on driving Class D power amps with tube preamps, so this should be a step above all-solid-state designs, as you can roll the tubes if you wish. They've garnered a few accolades over the years, too. Here at the AXPONA 2025 high-end audio show, they had two units to alternate between the ICEpower and Hypex units — a very cool idea, but I didn't have time to spend to check out the difference.
---> Part 2: AXPONA 2025 Show Report 15th Floor.

04 / 21 / 25

Lone Star AudioFest 2025 From May 2nd Through 4th
Touted as the "Woodstock of high-end audio shows", Lone Star AudioFest (LSAF) says come as you areas you show up and setup, or just look around. You'll hear your favorite music and be introduced to some new favorites too! The show is held during the first weekend in May, with 2025 bring from May 2nd through 4th. Exhibitor rooms are open to the public Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. This fun, manufacturer-produced equipment and DIY audio gear show aims to be a little grass-roots event that continues to grow and flourish. Seminars at LSAF are always informative and popular. You can learn quite a bit from the industry professionals and seasoned DIY enthusiasts alike. Attendees will also enjoy T.H.E. Film Festival and an IASCA car exhibition too! LSAF was created by passionate audiophiles to be a place where audio and camaraderie matter most.

This year's festival promises a reimagined experience with year-round promotions, livestream interviews, and opportunities for exhibitors to showcase their creations. Attendees can expect to see high-end audio setups, DIY projects, vintage collections, and cutting-edge designs. High-end audio setups, DIY projects, vintage collections, and cutting-edge designs will be on display at LSAF 2025. During the show, be sure to connect with fellow hi-fi enthusiasts, designers, and DIY builders.

04 / 19 / 25

Part 4: Montreal Audiofest 2400 Hallway And Bonaventure Room
A fabulous fusion of audiophile gear.
Montreal Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
Aside from the Innuos Zen server, this all-British room delivered the classic British sound with warm, very inviting music — the kind of system for the guy (or family) that isn't interested in spending large for state-of-the-art gear, but rather wants to enjoy their music, whether it's for just an hour or all day long. Art et Son and Erikson Consumer explained the room very simply with their posted price list for all to see. (Thank you!) Hegel used one of their rooms to display a large portion of their products (if not all) and answer questions people might have, though their signage was very informative by itself. Good show, gentlemen! Their other room was both dark and packed with prospective customers. I frequently see Hegel products on the Canuck Audio Mart which suggests they are a very strong brand in Canada. The speakers might have been Andrew Jones' MoFi speakers in there, which would have also drawn a crowd regardless of amplification.
---> Part 4: Montreal Audiofest 2400 Hallway And Bonaventure Room.

04 / 18 / 25

Part 1: AXPONA 2025 Show Report 16th Floor
My in-depth Audio Expo North American 2025 show report begins....
AXPONA Show Report By Rick Becker
Ze'ev Schlik had a fine-sounding rig with a new two-way Duet15 Horn1 open baffle speaker with a compression horn on top, starting at $7,350. As in recent shows, the rig was wired with Silversmith Audio cables — the ribbon speaker cable and their new interconnects. Note the Silversmith 3-D printed cable risers. A Luminous Audio Technologies Axiom II Walker passive line stage caught my eye, which undoubtedly helped with the transparency of this rig. A Pass Labs First Watt SIT 4 amplifier drove the speakers. An Aurender streamer provided the source. This LAiV Harmony DAC ($2700) caught my eye with its handsome design. First time I've seen it. LAiV was founded in 2023 in Singapore, and from what I see in the fit and finish of this small DAC, you will be hearing a lot more about them in the future. It features a FEMTO clock, I²S synchronization, RCA and XLR outputs, and a remote control.
---> Part 1: AXPONA 2025 Show Report 16th Floor.

04 / 17 / 25

Shure Celebrates Their 100th Anniversary
Shure Incorporated is celebrating their special 100th anniversary! With a century of research, development, innovation, and desire to achieve the best audio possible, Shure continues to offer industry-leading products to recording engineers, musicians and music lovers alike. "S.N. Shure started the Company in downtown Chicago in 1925 selling radio parts kits. In 1932, Shure became one of only a few U.S. microphone manufacturers with the introduction of the Model 33N microphone. Since then, the Company has grown into a global technology leader, offering a diverse portfolio of game-changing wired and wireless microphones, conferencing and meeting solutions, and personal and professional listening products. Over its 100-year history, more than 50,000 different electronics products have been developed by Shure. Shure products are now sold in more than 120 countries, and through the decades, they have been trusted and used around the world by such luminaries as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Elvis Presley, Nelson Mandela, The Beatles, and other icons.

Over the past 100 years, Shure has introduced iconic products that have become staples in the audio industry.... Here is a list of some industry firsts and notable achievements from Shure:

First Phonograph Cartridge (1937) - Shure's development of our first phonograph cartridge established the company as a leader in high-fidelity audio.

Unidyne Microphone (1939) - The Unidyne Model 55 was the first single-element unidirectional microphone, providing better sound isolation and reducing feedback, making it a popular choice for broadcast and live performance.

First Handheld Wireless Microphone System (1953) - Shure introduced the Vagabond 88, revolutionizing the way performers and presenters operated on stage.

SM58 Microphone (1966) - The Shure SM58 became an industry standard for live vocal performance microphones, known for its durability and reliable sound quality. It is still an icon today.

IntelliMix Room (2020) – The innovative audio processing software revolutionized the AV industry by optimizing audio conferencing with advanced DSP algorithms."

Songer Audio S1 Field Coil Point-Source Loudspeaker Review
Singing a magnificent song.
Review By Bob Grossman
Do you remember as a kid when you first heard an excellent quality music system? It was exciting, right? That first time I heard music on a good stereo, I was completely mesmerized as if real musicians were performing in the room! It was an emotional experience beyond the thrilling sound. That feeling came back a few months ago at the Capital Audio Fest when I visited the Songer Audio room and heard the S1 Speakers for the first time. I had been listening to music in many different demo rooms with my good friend Ken Sternberg. We were also saying hello to industry friends and taking in the excitement of the festival. Something magical happened when we went into the Songer Room that distinctly grabbed our attention, like the first time I heard a stereo 60 years ago. Ken Songer told us he is relatively new to the show scene. He has started his business with two speaker models.
---> Songer Audio S1 Field Coil Point-Source Loudspeaker Review.

North America Premiere Review!
Alsyvox Audio Design Botticelli X Loudspeaker Review
Planar dynamics redefined.
Review By Greg Weaver
The first week of September last year brought a highly rewarding conclusion to an audio quest that was more than five years in the making. Since my very first exposure to the Alsyvox Audio Design Botticelli full-range ribbon loudspeaker — back in May of 2017 in Munich, it has been my goal to spend some serious time in front of these gorgeous and utterly remarkable sounding loudspeakers. I was first introduced to the seductive voice of these remarkable Spanish planar dynamic loudspeakers at the 2017 "apostate" HiFiDeluxe audio show held at the Marriott München. Just a ten-minute drive south, and slightly west, of the Munich Order Center, home to the annual "High-End Munich", the largest annual audio show on earth, this "overflow" audio event runs coincident with the larger, more established event every year. Now, I should make it clear that I have never been a blind devotee of planar dynamic loudspeaker designs such as those from manufacturers like Eminent Technology, Magnepan, or Wisdom.
---> Alsyvox Audio Design Botticelli X Loudspeaker Review.

04 / 16 / 25

Audio Expo North America Show 2025 Prelude
By 10 a.m. I pulled into the distant parking lot....
AXPONA 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
Assorted Photos By Dr. Bump And Chuck Bruce
I had requested a Press Pass weeks ago and packed my bags on Thursday, but as the time to depart approached I had misgivings about going. It was going to be a pleasure trip without writing a show report but I was only halfway through my Montreal report from that show, two weeks earlier. There was still much writing ahead. As I sat at my computer after dinner, the phone rang while I was scanning the internet for political news at 6 p.m. and trying to decide whether to go or stay. Steve Rochlin, who was unaware I was planning to go anyway, asked if there was any way I could get to Chicago to cover the show. The main reporter couldn't make it at the last minute. At 7 p.m. I tore the receipt off the gas pump and hopped on the New York State Thruway with a full tank. After five hours of sleep in a service area on the Indiana Toll Road, I grabbed a thermos full of coffee at the 7-Eleven.
---> Audio Expo North America Show 2025 Prelude.

04 / 15 / 25

audioXpress' May 2025 Issue
Editorial: Learn About The Music You Like
78 RPM Records Returns
Anomalies V2: Leaving The Trodden Speaker Path
Coffee Can Towers
A Primer on Class-D Amplifiers Part 2
Do It Yourself With Vacuum Tubes
The Ultra-Linear Power Amplifier
Getting Less Gain From Tubes
Micro Details in Push-Pull Output Transformers
Type 3 Mu Stage Breakthrough
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "As a premise for many articles that we review, support, and approve for audioXpress, there are many that actually suggest more questions than answers and essentially make us question our acquired knowledge. That's OK, and we encourage that. We should always look at new questions in order to find solutions for problems we ignored, disregarded, or simply were not aware existed. Please feel free to send us suggestions, abstracts, drafts, or fully expanded essays on audio-related topics. In any discipline. I fundamentally believe we have a long way to go to fully understand sound propagation and how to optimize our own electroacoustical systems to fully leverage sound reproduction. We continuously review research work and published material going back multiple decades — something we are forced to do to be able to recognize how much of what is being written today is actually new and "advances the evolution of audio technology" as our magazine motto states."
---> audioXpress May 2025 Issue.

04 / 14 / 25

Sunday's Audio Excellence At AXPONA 2025
Achieving audio excellence with immersive soundscapes.
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2025 Show Report By Chuck Bruce
Sunday here at AXPONA 2025 audiophile / high-end audio show delivered more excitement as the final day began for music lovers. Registration and ticket sales open at 9 AM and once again today there were various informative and enlightening seminars. Once again the Master Class Theater Sessions provided knowledgeable insights from expertise within the audio industry. For car audio enthusiasts, IASCA (International Auto Sound Challenge Association), which is a new addition for 2025 to AXPONA, showcased high-performance mobile audio systems. Sound quality is the goal, though some car audio systems do reach very loud volume levels (high SPL). Of course, we can't forget the Ear Gear Experience for those who love their music via a wide range of headphones, in-ear monitors (IEM), and personal audio gear from top brands.
---> Sunday's Audio Excellence At AXPONA 2025.

04 / 13 / 25

Saturday's Sonic Innovations And Revelations At AXPONA 2025
Your hi-fi heavenly dreams come true.
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2025 Show Report By Chuck Bruce
Saturday here at AXPONA 2025 promises to be exhilarating, especially considering the great gear I heard on Friday. Today was an exciting day for music lovers and audiophile enthusiasts. It was time for me to visit more exhibit rooms, see more magnificent high-end audio equipment, and experience cutting-edge audio setups from top brands from around the world. During the day were a variety of seminars and ‘Master Classes' to help inform and educate newbies and seasoned professionals alike. While walking the hallways it is always a joy to meet longtime friends. The many meaningful friendships created over the years are one of the many joys of this hobby of ours. Tonight's live music concert at 8 PM features headliner and renowned jazz artist Patricia Barber.
---> Saturday's Sonic Innovations And Revelations At AXPONA 2025.

Saturday's AXPONA 2025 Photofest Thx To Dr. Bump
A stunning selection of stereo gear during Saturday's high-end audio showcase.
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2025 Show Report By Dr. Michael R. Bump
AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) on Saturday was open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with a special live music concert event in the evening. Today's music lover and high-end audio event features a variety of activities, including static exhibits, listening rooms with active sound systems, and a variety of educational seminars. High-performance audio systems are often crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using advanced technology and high-quality materials to reproduce sound as accurately and naturally as possible. AT AXPONA today were a variety of specialized components such as amplifiers, reference quality loudspeakers, precision turntables, digital-to-analog converters (DACs), Hi-Res Audio music streamers, and more. With luxury in mind, the design of many pieces of audiophile gear provides both aesthetic excellence and high functionality, with sleek finishes and innovative engineering.
--->Saturday's AXPONA 2025 Photofest Thx To Dr. Bump.

04 / 12 / 25

Friday's AXPONA 2025 Photofest Thx To Music Professor Michael R. Bump
Forty fantastic photos from Friday's AXPONA 2025 audiophile show.
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2025 Show Report By Dr. Michael R. Bump
While having fun during Friday at AXPONA 2025, the vibrant beginning of the weekend was filled with high-end audio showcases during the day and live music performances at night. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive coverage of the AXPONA audiophile show features an impressive lineup of audiophile gear, including the latest and greatest gear plus many world premieres! We know that attendees were treated to dynamic demonstrations of cutting-edge audio technology by experts in their field. Many exhibition rooms blend analog and digital sources sensationally. This evening's live music highlight was a live performance by the Kyle Asche Organ Quartet, delivering soulful jazz with classic Hammond organ grooves. The crowd was enthusiastic, and the atmosphere was electric, making it a memorable day for music, music lovers, audio enthusiasts, and gearheads alike. Enjoy the following photos, and remember to check back tomorrow for more Audio Expo North America 2025 high-end audio show coverage. As always... enjoy the music!
---> Friday's AXPONA 2025 Photofest Thx To Music Professor Michael R. Bump.

04 / 11 / 25

Inside AXPONA 2025: Friday Highlights From The USA's Premier Audio Show
Beginning my deep dive into high-end audio gear at AXPONA 2025.
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2025 Show Report By Chuck Bruce
Friday morning crowd gathers for tickets at AXPONA 2025, which is expected to be big and fun this year! Overall, the sheer variety of music that I heard today at the AXPONA 2025 audiophile show was outstanding. Some of the playlists were very well-produced and assembled by the presenters. Sure there may be a glitch or two during the day, it's a show so these things happen. Thankfully, we as an industry have become far better at integrating analog and digital to ensure great demos of the world's best home audio gear. Please let me say this again, a great compiling of music playlists at this year's AXPONA 2025 high-end audio show. The crowd was generous, and the music during the day was, overall, inspiring! While I'm looking forward to tomorrow, let's first get to the outstanding audiophile gear I heard today at AXPONA 2025.
---> Inside AXPONA 2025: Friday Highlights From The USA's Premier Audio Show.

Part 3: Sensational Sound During The Montreal Audiofest 2025 High-End Audio Show
Exploring the 2300 Hallway here at Montreal Audiofest high-end audio event.
Montreal Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
At this point, having covered the 1200 and 1300 hallways, I was halfway around the upper level of the Bonaventure and it was time to take a break and inventory the ducks in the rooftop wildlife preserve. I can assure you I was not alone in doing so. To continue on the upper level, you take a short flight of stairs to ascend to the 2300 hallway. In doing so, it is natural to continue straight ahead into the ArtistCloner room in 2327. If you did this, you probably missed 2326, a few steps down the hallway to the right at the top of the stairs. I get tripped up myself, so don't feel bad. The Watershed Group was new to me. I learned it was previously known as the Rep Company (which I had never heard of) and has warehouse and showroom facilities in Brantford, Ontario. In 2011 they re-branded themselves as The Watershed Group, to reflect their business as importers and distributors of high-end audio and cinema products, as well as design-install experts.
---> Part 3: Sensational Sound During The Montreal Audiofest 2025 High-End Audio Show.

Coachella 2025 Features Kraftwerk & Many Others
Coachella 2025 is set to be an unforgettable experience! The festival will take place over two weekends: April 11th through 13th and April 18th through 20th, 2025, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. Featuring an incredible lineup of artists across various genres, headliners include Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, and Travis Scott. Electronic acts include The Prodigy, Kraftwerk, Above & Beyond, Amelie Lens, Chris Stussy, and Mind Against. For lovers of modern Hip-Hop and R&B, Missy Elliott, Megan Thee Stallion, Charli XCX, and Ty Dolla $ign are planned to perform. Pop and Rock genres will be Jimmy Eat World, The Misfits, FKA Twigs, Clairo, and Benson Boone. Latin Music fans will enjoy Iván Cornejo, Junior H, and Anitta while the K-Pop will have solo performances from BLACKPINK's Lisa and Jennie, as well as Enhypen.

Passes are on sale now, with options for General Admission, General Admission + Shuttle, and VIP Passes. Camping options have been expanded for 2025, including upgraded Ready-Set and La Campana tents, as well as classic Tent and Car camping. VIP Areas have also been expanded, with new areas near the Outdoor Theater and Sahara Tent, offering premium amenities. General Admission starts at $649 for Weekend 1 and $599 for Weekend 2. VIP Passes start at $1,399 for Weekend 1 and $1,199 for Weekend. VIP passes for Coachella 2025 offer a range of exclusive benefits to enhance your festival experience including access to VIP Areas where you may enjoy access to VIP areas located at the 12 Peaks area adjacent to the Main Stage, in the Rose Garden, and new areas near the Outdoor Theater and Sahara Tent. These areas provide specialty food and drink vendors, air-conditioned restrooms, shaded seating areas, and full no-host bars. This year's lineup promises a diverse and exciting mix of performances, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. As always, enjoy the music.

04 / 10 / 25

Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Progression S350 Stereo Power Amplifier Review
The Dan D'Agostino S350 amplifier makes each musical selection sound spectacular!
Review By Tom Lyle
Dan D'Agostino Master Audio products are not the most expensive audio components on the market, but in my opinion, their audio products are some of the best sounding high-end audio components I've ever had the pleasure of auditioning. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to review two D'Agostino Master Audio components in the past. In 2017, I reviewed the excellent-sounding Momentum Lifestyle integrated amplifier, which had an onboard DAC and could also be used as a streamer with its front-panel LCD metadata display. Also in 2017, I reviewed D'Agostino Master Audio System's Momentum phono stage, which I was highly impressed with its outstanding sound quality and very user-friendly front panel controls.
---> Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Progression S350 Stereo Power Amplifier Review.

Aric Audio Super 300B SET Stereo Power Amplifier Review
To 300B or not to 300B, that is the Question.
Review By Ric Mancuso
Aric Kimball is an audio component designer and is a self-made audiophile. It is seldom to come across an audio designer who has eluded the radar among the audiophile community. His father somewhat inspired Aric to take a journey into the audio universe. Aric told me that his dad owned a Pioneer Rack system back in the 1970s that Aric had admired. Aric wanted to own one of his own. That compass point ignited his passion for ultimately designing his gear — a big step from the glitzy look of the Pioneer Rack system. I used to sell those in my previous life as an audio salesperson. Oh, those meters! So, I asked Aric who his mentors were and what components were his envy. He admitted to me that he had no mentors or any icons of audio that he worshipped. Here are a few answers to some questions I asked about his audio formative years.
---> Aric Audio Super 300B SET Stereo Power Amplifier Review.

04 / 09 / 25

Celebrating A 50% Increase At Southwest Audio Fest 2025
This just in from SWAF's show promoters Lou Hinkley and Gary Gill: "Thank You! What a great show we had for 2025! The vibe was incredible, we had more listening rooms, a full Marketplace, traffic was up 50% over the first year, and sales were made by many vendors; so we can’t wait for SWAF 2026! We want to thank everyone who helped make this show a success. Only our second year and at 60 listening rooms along with a vibrant Marketplace in the amazing Anatole Hotel, SWAF has proved that it is one of the top audiophile shows in North America! Next year we expect to have close to 80 rooms and we will be asking for your help in getting the word out in order to fill the hallways and listening rooms since the Anatole is so massive."

"Remember, SWAF 2026 will be keeping the typical three-day format but are dropping Sunday show hours and adding Thursday from 2pm to 8pm instead. Friday and Saturday will be the usual hours of 10am to 6pm with many after hours events. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you next year at SWAF and at the Capital Audiofest on November 14th through 18th, 2025, and the Pacific Audio Fest on September 11th through 13th, 2026. Musically yours, Gary and Lou." See Enjoy the Music.com's Southwest Audio Fest (SWAF) 2025 show coverage here.

Part 2: Hi-Fi Heaven At The Montreal Audiofest 2025 Audiophile Show
Visiting the 1300 Hallway here at Montreal Audiofest high-end audio event.
Montreal Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
Baetis is one of the unsung great server/streamer companies in the high end, probably because they don't partner with major brands at the bigger shows. What I heard hear (sic) was pretty convincing, however. The T+A amplification has been making big waves in recent years and getting the respect it deserves. The compact size should play well with aging Boomers and anyone else whose living quarters are challenging — or even just those wishing to keep a smaller visual imprint. Compare the size of the two T+A components stacked on the middle shelf with the Saturn power conditioner in a full-size chassis on the bottom shelf, for example. Note the Tough Nut rack here with each wood shelf supported by individual footers at each corner and the entire shelf sitting on special vibration-absorbing footers. I'll get back to these in a minute, but it is nice to see this young company progressing and continuing to show up at shows for three years now.
---> Part 2: Hi-Fi Heaven At The Montreal Audiofest 2025 Audiophile Show.

04 / 08 / 25

This Weekend Celebrates Record Store Day 2025
Record Store Day 2025 is set to take place this weekend, starting on Saturday, April 12. Record Store Day (RSD) was established in 2008 to celebrate the culture of independent record stores and their role in communities. The first event took place on April 19, 2008, at Rasputin Music in Mountain View, California, with Metallica launching the celebration. It was inspired by Free Comic Book Day and aimed to support the nearly 1,400 indie record stores in the USA at the time. Since then, Record Store Day has grown into a global phenomenon, with events held in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, Japan, and Australia. The day features exclusive vinyl releases, live performances, artist meet-and-greets, and other festivities. This annual event celebrates independent record stores and vinyl culture worldwide and features exclusive releases and limited-edition vinyl LP pressings.

This year's lineup includes rare vinyl from artists like Black Stone Cherry, Judas Priest, Post Malone, Rage Against the Machine, Sting, The B-52s, The Killers, David Bowie, A-ha, Beck, Taylor Swift, The Cure, Blur, and many more. The titles on the RSD 2025 Official List will be released at participating record stores as part of their celebration of Record Store Day, April 12. You can choose to view the List on their website, with added detail and artwork, or you can print out a PDF that can be used as a wish list or shopping guide. Record Store Day 2024 is a great opportunity for music lovers to connect and support their local community and record shops.

SWAF 2025 Show Report Part 2 
Plus The Exciting SWAF 2025 Blue Note Awards
A musical experience that I will never forget.
Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report By Paul Schumann
ModWright Instruments had an impressive system at the SWAF 2025 high-end audio show. It included a Pure Fidelity model The Symphony turntable ($21,995) with a Stratos MC cartridge ($1,995). The power amplifiers were two ModWright KWA 99 Monoblocks ($9,000/pair). They drove a pair of Gauder Akustik Capella 100 loudspeakers ($26,975 per pair). The sound of this room was very warm and inviting. The preamplifiers were a ModWright PH 9.0 Tube Phono Stage ($3,500) and LS 99 Balanced Preamplifier ($6,500). The digital source included a Weiss DAC204 ($3,475) with a ModWright Linear Power Supply (LPS) for the Weiss DAC 204/205 ($995) and ModWright Analog Bridge ($2,900). Supreme Acoustic Systems had a bunch of goodies in their ballroom.
---> SWAF 2025 Show Report Part 2 Plus The Exciting Blue Note Award.

04 / 07 / 25

AXPONA 2025 High-End Audiophile Show Report
AXPONA 2025 (Audio Expo North America) is set to take place from April 11th through 13th at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Illinois. This annual event is for audiophiles and features a wide range of high-fidelity, high-performance audio gear. Over 200 rooms will let you listen and assess the equipment being presented. An extensive AXPONA 2025 show report for longtime Enjoy the Music.com enthusiasts will showcase the latest and greatest audio equipment from top audio brands. For personal audio, the Ear Gear Experience (akin to CanJam shows) is a dedicated area for headphones and personal audio gear, including open-back, closed-back, and in-ear monitors (IEM). There's also an Expo Hall & Record Fair that will have stereo hi-fi audio accessories, vinyl LP turntables / record players, various cable manufacturers, and more.
---> Enjoy the Music.com's Extensive AXPONA 2025 Show Report.

04 / 04 / 25

Hi-Fi+ April 2025 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: Our Shared Hobbies And Interests
WIN! A Computer Audio Design USB Filter worth £750 must be won!
Meet Your Dealer: Andy Blockley Of Winchester HiFi
Graham Audio VOTU Mirama Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Linn 119 Passive Or Active Stand-Mount Loudspeaker
PrimaLuna EVO 300 Hybrid Power Amplifier 
Naim Audio Statement / 500 Series Audio amplification
Bricasti M11 R-2R Classic Digital-To-Analog Converter
conrad-johnson CAV-60 Integrated Amplifier
Hegel H400 Integrated Amplifier
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "There are some remarkably consistent commonalities with audio enthusiasts worldwide. Although some common hobbies and interests are unique to a few countries (UK audiophiles are often really into fishing, for example, and the same doesn't hold quite so well universally), many are almost universally common. A lot of this is due to the intersection of 'geeks', 'men' and 'Boomers!' Hobbies and interests that tick all three of those boxes tend to have enthusiasts who share the same passions. And, while some are consistent with 'male jewellery' (if you wear a nice new watch to an audio show, many people will be able to tell you the history of that watch brand, and have an opinion about its best and worst designs), others are simply shared interests. It doesn't matter if you have a Leica, a Fuji, a Nikon or Canon in that camera bag... there will be people genuinely interested in its performance."
---> Hi-Fi+'s April 2025 High-End Audio Magazine.

Part 1: Magical Music At The Montreal Audiofest 2025 High-End Audio Show
Starting our exploration of great sound at the Montreal show.
Montreal Audiofest 2025 Show Report By Rick Becker
After passing the pool and entering the 1200 wing of the main floor, I looked to my right to check for a room that was easily missed. There was no bowed signage above any of the doors indicating an Audiofest presence, so I proceeded straight ahead to the Phonographe room (1215). It was only after returning home that I noticed room 1204, beyond a zig-zag in the hallway, dedicated to Audiochicks by Marantz [my translation] — something of a lounge for women interested in audio as I recall from last year's show. Deep apology here and also an opportunity to mention many more women were attending the show in Montreal than I recall seeing at AXPONA or Capital Audiofest in recent years. Phonographe is a Canadian distributor who featured an outstanding minimal rig that struck me as a contender for one of the Best Rooms at the show, but this being the first room I had entered, I knew I would have to return here on my sweep at the end of the show to confirm it.
---> Part 1: Magical Music At The Montreal Audiofest 2025 High-End Audio Show.

04 / 03 / 25

RealAudio Debuted 30 Years Ago Today
RealAudio debuted on April 3rd, 1995, at a time when internet speeds were painfully slow 28.8kbit/s (56kbs was in Q3 1998) compared to modern gigabit speeds of today. Back then, downloading a single audio file could take hours on a dial-up connection. Of note is that CompuServe made history in June 1994 by hosting Aerosmith's song "Head First" as the first-ever downloadable single by a major band. RealAudio's streaming capability in 1995 solved slow download speeds by allowing audio to play in real-time while it was downloading — a huge leap forward at the time. This was made possible through proprietary compression algorithms that reduced the file size with some significant loss in sound quality, yet still considered by some to be viable due to low-bandwidth connections in 1995. Without RealAudio, the development of platforms like Spotify, Pandora, and even podcasts might have taken much longer to come to fruition.

Rob Glaser at Streaming Media East 2000 Event (Show Report)

The software behind RealAudio was developed by Rob Glaser and his team at Progressive Networks (later renamed RealNetworks). Glaser, a former Microsoft executive, envisioned a future where multimedia content could be easily accessed and consumed online, and RealAudio became one of the first tools to bring that vision to life. In the late 1990s, RealAudio gained massive traction, particularly with news organizations and radio stations. Numerous broadcasters used RealAudio to stream their content, giving audiences the ability to listen to live radio over the internet. Platforms like Live365, one of the first internet radio hosting services, relied heavily on RealAudio technology to deliver music and talk shows to global audiences. RealNetworks expanded its offerings with RealPlayer, a multimedia player that supported RealAudio alongside RealVideo. RealPlayer became one of the most widely installed applications on early personal computers, and for many, it was their first exposure to streaming technology. Soon afterwards, Enjoy the Music.com was the world's first website to stream music without the need for a program or browser plug-in. For history buffs, in September 2005 MusicGiants would be the first online music site to sell CD-standard quality music online downloads (using Microsoft's Windows Media Audio Lossless Format / 1100 kbps file). Below is the world's first song that was streamed online, thanks to Enjoy the Music.com, when using a web browser (no need for an additional program or special plug-in). As always... enjoy the music.

Part 2: SWAF 2025 Highlights From The Large Rooms And Marketplace
Southwest Audio Fest 2025 high-end audio / audiophile show was a resounding success!
Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report By Michael Harkins
Within part one of this SWAF 2025 report, I visited many rooms on the top three floors of the event. They were good-sized hotel rooms that were spaced out so that adjacent rooms didn't contaminate the sound in any given room. Within this Part 2 Southwest Audio Fest report for Enjoy the Music.com, we explore a sampling of the larger rooms found on the first two floors of the Hilton Anatole Dallas, the lobby level, and the mezzanine level. Because of a large staircase adjoining the lobby level, it was easy to move between the two levels without tying up an elevator. And, in fact, there wasn't a lot of elevator congestion on any of the floors, which was nice to see. Starting at the lobby level, the marketplace was the center of attraction. But I first went to several of the named rooms at the lobby level and then on to the Mezzanine.
---> Part 2: SWAF 2025 Highlights From The Large Rooms And Marketplace.

Michael Harkins' Best Of SWAF 2025 Blue Note Awards
Only a few exhibitors can earn the prestigious
Enjoy the Music.com Best Of SWAF 2025 Blue Note Award
Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report By Michael Harkins
I promised at the start of this two-part article to find high-value products at the show. After roaming around the many rooms, one gets the impression that if you don't have at least $10,000 for speakers, $5,000 for a DAC or preamplifier, or $10,000 for interconnects, you may as well not participate in this thing called high-end audio. The "high-end" moniker serves to illustrate that we are often talking big bucks. Thankfully, I was able to scrutinize a sampling of rooms. Many electronics products on display were made by respectable names in the business such as Audio Research, Aurender, Boulder, VAC, AGD, and others. It's hard for some of these companies to make lower-cost models when their focus is no-compromise audio. But I must give credit to Audio Research for introducing several new products that were less stratospheric in price but are still top performers.
---> Michael Harkins' Best Of SWAF 2025 Blue Note Awards.

04 / 02 / 25

HIGH END 2025 Audiophile Show Info & Report
The HIGH END 2025 audiophile / immersivephile event is an internationally renowned audio exhibition that will take place from May 15 to May 18, 2025, at the M.O.C. Event Center in Munich, Germany. This event is a must-visit for anyone passionate about high-quality audio technology, as it brings together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and in open to consumers from over 40 countries. The HIGH END 2025 exhibition will feature hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations in consumer electronics technology, including hi-fi audio, high-end video, home theater, and bespoke entertainment solutions for millionaires and billionaires alike. Visitors can expect to experience groundbreaking trends, technological advances, and exclusive world premieres.

This year's brand ambassador is the Norwegian singer Anette Askvik, who embodies the event's motto "Passion for Music". Her hypnotic sound and deep emotion perfectly reflect the passion for promoting audio technology that the HIGH END 2025 exhibition aims to convey. Following a revamped campaign in 2024, the organizer is building on the successful series, where prominent celebrities from the music scene underscore the mission of the HIGH END show. "We made a conscious decision in 2024 to forgo a testimonial. We used the break to reflect upon our concept and to become inspired by some fresh new ideas", says Stefan Dreischärf, Managing Director of the organizer HIGH END SOCIETY Service GmbH. "We are proud to have enlisted Anette Askvik as our brand ambassador and now look forward to continuing the series with her", Dreischärf adds. "Her art, which she infuses with emotional depth and technical precision, perfectly reflects our values. She stands for the passion with which we seek to promote audio technology, and which she expresses in her music."
---> Learn More And See Enjoy the Music.com's HIGH END 2025 Show Report.

It's Showtime Here At SWAF 2025
This year's game plan is to enjoy the music.
Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report By Paul Schumann
Has it been a year already? It felt like I drove up to Dallas just a couple of months ago. Before I knew it, I was back in the beautiful Hilton Anatole Hotel to enjoy the second Southwest Audio Fest (SWAF) high-end audio show. Last year was my first audiophile show here at SWAF in 2024, so it was a bit like drinking through a firehose. With a better game plan this year, I was able to enjoy this show more and take longer listens in the rooms. There was a lot to be excited about in the SWAF high-end audiophile show. The first system to catch my attention at SWAF was set up just outside the VAC ballroom. Compared to many audiophiles, my listening space is pretty modest, so I'm always attracted to setups that fit easily into my comfy living room. This system consisted of a VAC Essence Line preamp ($9,000), two VAC Essence 90 Monoblock Amplifiers ($9,000 each), Acora Acoustics MRC-3 speakers ($15,990 per pair), an Arender A1000 Streamer / DAC ($3,500), and Cardas cables throughout.
---> It's Showtime Here At SWAF 2025.

04 / 01 / 25

April's Fun Audiophile Review Magazine
Plus SWAF, Montreal, AXPONA, And More!
We're fully into the spring show season, and with the Florida International Audio Expo 2025 now complete, we're working on our SWAF and Montreal show coverage, so be sure to check back daily as we post updates. As a publication with a healthy sense of humor, we're sure you'll enjoy the various fun articles and review we've posted this month. The April 2025 edition of Enjoy the Music.com continues celebrating our 30th anniversary with a focus on high-performance audio and the audiophile hobby. This issue features historic reviews of audio gear from the past decades, alongside articles discussing the evolution of the audiophile industry. Highlights include a continuation of the series "The Future of Our Audiophile Hobby" by Roger Skoff, which explores the challenges and opportunities in the world of high-fidelity sound systems. Additionally, the editorial by J. Martins delves into the importance of questioning established knowledge to advance audio technology.

We also very mindful here at Enjoy the Music.com knowing you desire being the first to know, and so within our extensive April audiophile and music lover Review Magazine we have five World Premiere reviews for your reading pleasure! We are truly honored to offer you these world premiere hi-fi audio equipment reviews. In addition, we have a variety of think pieces, a special revisit tribute to Allen Wright of Vacuum State, a Krell CD player review, and so much more within our April publication. As Enjoy the Music.com continues celebrating our outstanding 30 years of dedication to music enthusiasts globally, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!
---> April's Fun Audiophile And Music Lover Hi-Fi Review Magazine.

The Future Of Our Audiophile Hobby Part 3
More about things to come and how to make them better.
Article By Roger Skoff
In Part 1 of "The Future Of Our Audiophile Hobby", and more in Part 2 of The Future about our hobby and the industry that serves it, I wrote about earlier times, when our hobby was at its peak and everyone was "into" stereo and hi-fi, and the future seemed unlimited. I also recounted how the old saying "Familiarity breeds contempt" proved to be true and, as "hi-fi" (or the "mid-fi"-or-less gear claiming to be it) and stereo lost their novelty and became commonplace, the old "What have you done for me lately?" syndrome set in and – like the ears on the sides of our heads – people not only stopped commenting on them, they also stopped noticing them as well. As I pointed out in Part 2 of this article, it's gotten so bad that many people – largely among the young, but including one woman in her fifties that I specifically mentioned last time, have never heard or don't know the meaning of the words "hi-fi" and "stereo".
---> The Future Of Our Audiophile Hobby Part 3.

The Milto-Burlitz Guide To Reading,
Understanding And Enjoying Audio Reviews
Article By Fred Manteghian of The Audio Adventure
We'll be the first to admit that reading audio reviews can be a daunting task. Do you find yourself wondering, "What are they talking about?" or "I never heard that --- am I missing something?" Well, we reviewers can be an obtuse bunch when we want to. Let's look at some of the phrases you'll encounter in your readings. We'll explain them to you in plain English, and in no time at all, you'll be an expert as well....
---> The Milto-Burlitz Guide To Reading, Understanding And Enjoying Audio Reviews.

Radio Shack's Realistic System 200 Review
Tremendous features and an authentic value!
Review By Mark Rochlin
Today I received the most amazing unit to evaluate, the Realistic System 200! New for 1988, this unit represents a new peak of the Tandy / Radio Shack line and continues the tradition of quality and value that makes Radio Shack famous and guarantees their continued success. Their System 200's ingenious design revolves around both sonic excellence and ease of use. Styled in a custom made faux walnut-looking rack with matching speakers, this unit will enhance the style of your living room. Radio Shack has taken the unique approach of enclosing the entire unit within one single chassis. This allows them to invest into their system where it counts, the internal electronics.
---> Radio Shack's Realistic System 200 Stereo Review.

Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report
SWAF 2025 high-end audio / audiophile event coverage.
Now in their second year, the Southwest Audio Fest (SWAF) high-end audio show by the dynamic duo Gary Gill (Capital Audiofest) and Lou Hinkley (Pacific AudioFest / Daedalus Audio) brings magical music to Dallas. SWAF 2025 follows their sensational success with the popular Pacific Audio Fest event. Attendees may listen to many of the world's top manufacturers who create a wide variety of exciting home and portable audio products. Within this expansive Resort environment, bask in luxurious sounds that caress your ears and bring newfound meaning to many of the songs you've heard many times in the past. The show promoters worked very hard to secure this amazing event venue, which is extremely safe, family fun friendly, and features great weather during March too! All this and more within a curated experience filled with fine art and acres of event space.
---> Southwest Audio Fest 2025 Show Report.

Montreal Audiofest 2025 Audiophile Show Report
The Salon Audio Montreal Audiofest 2025 takes place from March 28th through 30th with more than 5000 visitors expected who desired listening, seeing, and touching over 300 brands of high-end audiophile products all under one roof. As the largest show in Canada, attendees will experienced the very best high-end audio and video/videophile industry distributors, manufacturers, and retailers in Canada. Within each listening room, exhibitors are overjoyed to share their passion for music with you by demonstrating some of the world's best sound systems from $5000 to $500,000. Montréal Audiofest is celebrating its 36th edition in 2025 and remains the must-attend event for audiophiles, high-end audio gear enthusiasts, and music lovers.
---> Montreal Audiofest 2025 Audiophile Show Report.

AXPONA 2025 High-End Audiophile Show Report
AXPONA 2025 (Audio Expo North America) is set to take place from April 11th through 13th at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Illinois. This annual event is for audiophiles and features a wide range of high-fidelity, high-performance audio gear. Over 200 rooms will let you listen and assess the equipment being presented. An extensive AXPONA 2025 show report for longtime Enjoy the Music.com enthusiasts will showcase the latest and greatest audio equipment from top audio brands. For personal audio, the Ear Gear Experience (akin to CanJam shows) is a dedicated area for headphones and personal audio gear, including open-back, closed-back, and in-ear monitors (IEM). There's also an Expo Hall & Record Fair that will have stereo hi-fi audio accessories, vinyl LP turntables / record players, various cable manufacturers, and more.
---> Enjoy the Music.com's Extensive AXPONA 2025 Show Report.

World Premiere Review!
Synergistic Research PowerCell 14 Power Conditioner Review
Raising the performance of audiophile gear you plug into it.
Review By Rick Becker
The naysayers on internet forums will have a "hey"-day with this review. They complain about reviewers who proclaim that each new product they review is better than the last one. Well, I'm here to plead "guilty" as this is the third power conditioner I've reviewed in the past seven months, along with an incredible 650 photos and 59,000 words in the reviews of the Toronto Audiofest 2024 and Capital Audiofest 2024. Each power conditioner was better than the last, as well as significantly more expensive. Let me give you an overview in case you haven't been following along. My longstanding power conditioner, since July 2017 when the review was published by Enjoy the Music.com, had been the Synergistic PowerCell 8 UEF SE with an Atmosphere Level 2 power cord, a unit that sold for about $2000 at the time.
---> Synergistic Research PowerCell 14 Power Conditioner Review.

World Premiere Review!
Tobian Sound Systems 12FH Full-Range Reference Horn Speaker Review
The feeling of being within the studio as musicians play.
Review By Tom Lyle
The Tobian 12 FH hornspeakers' moniker, "Full Range Horn Speakers," accurately reflects their capabilities. These floor-standing speakers feature a 4-inch compression driver with a 9.5-inch horn / mid-high compression driver featuring a titanium diaphragm. The "12" in their name likely refers to their "ultra-light" 12-inch woofer located beneath the horn, near the bottom of their cabinet. The speakers have an impressive frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Indeed, these are full-range high-sensitivity loudspeakers. Designed and built in Switzerland, the Tobian 12 FH speakers look striking. Their real wood cabinets measure approximately 3-feet tall, 13-inches wide, and 16.5-inches deep. They are available in custom finishes, although I can't imagine most listeners being more than satisfied with one of their standard finishes: natural wood, high-gloss lacquer, or matte lacquer.
---> Tobian Sound Systems 12FH Full-Range Reference Horn Speaker Review.

World Premiere Review!
Rogue Audio Sphinx V3 Magnum Hybrid Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review
Back to the future.
Review By Ric Mancuso / Bargain Audiophile
The Rogue Audio Sphinx was first introduced sometime around late 2013. I purchased the original Sphinx from Rogue Audio upon a recommendation from a friend. Imagine an integrated hybrid tube and solid-state stereo amplifier with 100 Watts output at 8 Ohms (200W @ 4 Ohms), with vacuum tubes in the front end! I later came to find that it was the perfect unit to power my classic Martin Logan SL3 electrostatic hybrid loudspeakers. Turns out that Mark O'Brien of Rogue Audio told me that Rogue Audio had displayed with Martin Logan at audio shows, and it was a superb match-up. I still own the original Sphinx which is still pushing Watts through the SL 3's in our upstairs entertainment system. I reviewed the Rogue Audio Sphinx V2 and V3 subsequent versions over the years.
---> Rogue Audio Sphinx V3 Magnum Hybrid Stereo Integrated Amplifier Review.

A Tribute To... Allen Wright Of Vacuum State
In heaven, hoping you are enjoying the music my friend.
Article By Steven R. Rochlin
As many audiophiles know, Allen Wright of Vacuum State recently passed away. The reason why I did not jump on the news is because he and I were good friends and to just rifle off some article would have been a disservice to this great man. Allen was a New Zealand-born high-end audio designer who began his career on metal can military specification 6L6 tubes. At the age of 12, according to his website, "...he was into one tube regenerative radio, and later misspent his high school years building and operating a fully home brewed SSB ham radio station (ZLIBBO) as well as exploding various pyrotechnic devices. His first stereo system was jury-rigged out of the audio stages of two old radios, single-ended 6V6's with no feedback driving electro-dynamic speakers." Eventually after a string of related jobs, he landed a gig with Hewlett Packard as a service engineer.
---> A Tribute To... Allen Wright Of Vacuum State.

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.