High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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10 / 30 / 25

Exclusive Interview With Roger Waters!
An Interview With Roger Waters: Beyond The Quad Wall
Interview By Mike Mettler
Yes, I can confirm it: Roger Waters smiles. And laughs. A lot. During an hour-long in-person conversation with the man in the Sony Club atop Madison Avenue in New York City in mid-September, Waters, the co-founder of Pink Floyd, was quite amused and very much engaged while discussing techie topics like the origins of the mighty Floyd's live quad inclinations. He also continues to be deeply impressed by the surround-sound mixes his longtime production colleague, James Guthrie, has done for seminal albums like 1973's The Dark Side of the Moon, 1975's Wish You Were Here, and the recent 5.1 recasting of his often overlooked 1992 solo album, Amused to Death. "Oh, I agree — James did a good job on all of them," Waters says. "The new mixes of Amused to Death sound stunning. Yeah, it's great; I love it. It's pretty amazing."
---> An Interview With Roger Waters: Beyond The Quad Wall.

Exclusive Interview With James Guthrie!
An Interview With James Guthrie: Perfect 5.1 Sense
Interview By Mike Mettler
Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters wants his music to be reproduced at the highest quality, and he turns to one man to make sure he achieves that goal: producer and engineer James Guthrie. Guthrie and Waters have worked together for decades, starting with Pink Floyd's seminal 1979 album, The Wall. Waters has since entrusted Guthrie with producing hi-res surround-sound mixes for 1973's The Dark Side of the Moon, 1975's Wish You Were Here, and the recent 5.1 recasting of Waters' oft-overlooked 1992 solo album, Amused to Death. While Patrick Leonard was Waters' co-producer on Amused to Death, Guthrie was enlisted to bring his own special brand of mixing elixir into the control room. "We did try to make a dynamic album, but, really, that's going to happen anyway, just because of the music that Roger writes," Guthrie explains. "His storytelling is so dynamic, and we follow his lead."
---> An Interview With James Guthrie: Perfect 5.1 Sense.

10 / 29 / 25

YouTube's $8 Billion Payout To The Music Industry
With millions of people turning to YouTube Music for their daily listening, YouTube announced that it paid more than $8 billion to the global music industry over a 12-month period covering July 2024 through June 2025. This is said to be a milestone as the company framed this as evidence that its combined advertising and subscription model is delivering bigger returns for creators, labels, songwriters, and publishers. The figure was revealed publicly by Lyor Cohen, YouTube's Global Head of Music, who described the total as the result of a "twin engine" of ads and subscriptions that is "firing on all cylinders," and positioned the payment as part of a multi-year trajectory of rising payouts from the platform. This payout represents a notable acceleration versus past public tallies from YouTube: the company previously reported about $6 billion in payouts for the July 2021 through June 2022 period and roughly $4 billion in an earlier 12-month span, showing a steady year-over-year climb that the company credits to both advertising improvements and subscriber growth on YouTube Music and Premium. Cohen first shared the milestone during a talk at Billboard Latin Music Week before the broader announcement, underscoring YouTube's growing role in the music economy and its efforts to court record labels and publishers with higher revenue shares and expanded product features.

Industry observers noted the scale of the payment while cautioning that headline totals obscure distributional details: the $8 billion is an aggregate that flows to a mix of creators, labels, publishers, and collection societies rather than equaling direct artist take-home pay, and comparisons with rival services require nuance around subscriber bases, catalog usage, and per-stream rates. Still, the announcement arrives at a moment of intensified competition among streaming platforms, with YouTube seeking to close gaps with rivals on perceived fairness and to demonstrate that its hybrid business model can translate into measurable financial gains for rightsholders. For rights holders and artist advocates, the pledge of rising platform payments will likely prompt renewed attention to how streaming revenues are shared and reported, and it will sharpen conversations about transparency, contract terms, and payout mechanics as the industry negotiates the next wave of licensing deals. YouTube's disclosure is likely to be leveraged in forthcoming negotiations and public debates over streaming economics, while artists and intermediaries press platforms and labels alike for clearer breakdowns of how large aggregate payouts translate into earnings at the individual creator level.

10 / 28 / 25

Florida International Audio Expo 2026 In February
The Florida International Audio Expo will return to Tampa for its eighth annual show, running February 20th through 22nd at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel, and you know Enjoy the Music.com will once again be there reporting live! Enjoy a three-day celebration of high-fidelity audio that brings together manufacturers, specialty retailers, installers, and enthusiasts for in-person demonstrations of luxurious audio products. The event's program includes dedicated audition rooms, dealer-hosted demos, and a bustling exhibit floor where attendees can compare systems side-by-side. Exhibitor participation has surged in recent years, with the director of show operations noting more than 40% growth, a trend organizers attribute to renewed consumer interest in premium audio and the irreplaceable value of live listening experiences. The 2026 floor plan is expected to feature more than 100 exhibit spaces spanning loudspeakers, amplifiers, headphones, streamers, and interconnects, plus manufacturer representatives on-hand to answer technical questions and take orders. Several boutique brands and regional dealers have confirmed plans to present new product lines and limited-edition collaborations.

The Florida International Audio Expo 2026 will again host an IASCA-sanctioned car-audio sound quality competition and money-round event that invites sound-quality cars from across the United States, allowing visitors to judge systems from the driver's seat and speak directly with certified judges and installers. The car-audio component has broadened the show's appeal to an active community of installers and enthusiasts who combine mobile audio competition with home audio. Organizers emphasize a family-friendly atmosphere with admission options designed to accommodate hobbyists, serious buyers, and newcomers alike. Attendance information, exhibitor lists, and ticketing are available through the Florida International Audio Expo 2026 official website, where you can purchase tickets and order official merch ahead of the event. The Florida International Audio Expo has solidly positioned itself as the best early Spring event within the U.S., plus is Southeast's best destination for fine audio products while also being the best family-friendly destination for an American show, as Disneyworld, Bush Gardens, NASA, Universal Studios, etc are close by.

10 / 27 / 25

Live Nation Entertainment Q2 2025 Financials
Live Nation Entertainment posted strong Q2 2025 financial profit results, driven by record fan demand and ticket pricing, robust ticket sales above face value, and global expansion to ensure venues use Live Nation and Ticketmaster. Live Nation Entertainment delivered a highly profitable second quarter in 2025, reporting $5.1 billion in revenue, an 11% increase compared to the same period last year. The company's operating income surged 22% to $386 million, while adjusted operating income (AOI) climbed 11% to $590 million. CEO Michael Rapino credited the performance to "record fan demand" and a growing global footprint, with over 50 million fans attending 15,000 events in the first half of the year. There was no mention concerning the public outrage over concert ticket availability, pricing, and perceived third-party profiteering. The concert segment led the charge, generating $4.4 billion in revenue, up 12% year-over-year. Notably, international markets saw double-digit growth, with strong performances in Latin America and Asia. Ticketmaster also posted gains, with ticket sales up 3% and transacted tickets reaching 151 million year-to-date.

Rapino emphasized the company's investment in technology and global expansion, noting that Ticketmaster now operates in 35 countries, including recent launches in Thailand and the Philippines. Sponsorship, exclusivity, and advertising revenue grew 9% to $302 million, fueled by new exclusive business arrangements and increased on-site activations. Live Nation highlighted its strategic focus on enhancing the fan experience to ensure profits, including premium offerings and digital engagement. The company also reaffirmed its full-year outlook, projecting continued growth across all segments and anticipating over 145 million fans by year-end. Rapino stated, "We expect all our businesses to reach record levels in 2025". Looking ahead, Live Nation plans to deepen its global reach, profits, and locking in venues, concert-goers, and expand its (possibly exclusive) venue portfolio deals, with over 30 new venues added this year alone. The company remains bullish on long-term growth, citing strong demand, rising artist touring activity, and scalable infrastructure as the law allows. As Rapino concluded, "We are building on our flywheel of concerts, ticketing, and sponsorship to deliver sustained growth for years to come."

10 / 24 / 25

2025 Singapore Hi-End Asia International Audio Visual Show
The 2025 Singapore Hi-End Asia International Audio Visual Show, held October 23rd through 25th at Suntec Convention Centre, marks a bold leap forward for Asia's premium AV scene, expanding to 14,000 square meters and hosting over 200 global brands. Singapore's sensational Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre is transformed into a sonic sanctuary as the Hi-End Asia International Audio Visual Show returned for its third edition. Audiophiles, industry professionals, and curious newcomers continue to converged on Level 3 of the venue to experience the latest in high-fidelity sound and cutting-edge visual technology. With over 50 acoustically engineered listening rooms and a sprawling single-floor layout, the show underscored Singapore's growing role as a strategic hub for high-end audio in the Asia-Pacific region.

Organized by HiEnd Asia+ Pte Ltd in collaboration with the Taipei Electrical Commercial Association, the 2025 edition tripled in size compared to previous years. Exhibitors ranged from legacy brands with decades of engineering pedigree to emerging innovators seeking partnerships and market entry. The event's mission was clear: to foster meaningful connections and elevate the standard of AV experiences across Asia. Attendees were treated to immersive demonstrations, exclusive product launches, and expert panels that explored the future of audio-visual integration. The show's emphasis on acoustic integrity and professional-grade setups ensured that every room delivered a refined listening experience. Beyond the gear, the event cultivated a lifestyle atmosphere—complete with curated lounges, networking zones, and a palpable sense of community among enthusiasts and creators alike. Soon the industry will look ahead to 2026, anticipating even greater innovation and collaboration in Singapore's vibrant hi-fi and AV ecosystem.

157th AES International Convention In SoCal
The 157th AES International Convention kicks off this weekend in Long Beach, California, marking the Audio Engineering Society's first West Coast gathering in nearly a decade. With a packed schedule of workshops, exhibits, and keynote sessions, the event promises to be a landmark celebration of audio innovation. The Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is buzzing with anticipation as the 157th AES International Convention opens its doors from October 23rd through 25th, 2025, with additional skill-building workshops and technical tours. This year's convention brings together over 10,000 audio professionals, engineers, students, and enthusiasts from around the globe, eager to explore the latest advancements in sound technology. The exhibit floor features leading manufacturers showcasing cutting-edge gear, from immersive audio systems to next-gen mixing consoles. A highlight of the weekend is the Richard C. Heyser Memorial Lecture, delivered by Sean Olive, renowned for his pioneering work in psychoacoustics and loudspeaker design.

The convention also features dual keynote presentations: Warren Huart, celebrated producer and educator, and Andrew Watt, Grammy-winning producer, in a session moderated by Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. These talks are expected to draw large crowds, offering insights into the creative and technical processes behind some of today's most influential music productions. Beyond the main stage, the AES Los Angeles Section has curated a rich technical program that includes panels on spatial audio, AI in music production, and sustainable studio design. Attendees can participate in hands-on workshops, product demos, and networking events tailored to both seasoned professionals and emerging talent. With its return to Southern California, AES Show 2025 not only celebrates the legacy of audio engineering but also sets the stage for its immersive future, reaffirming the society's mission to foster innovation and collaboration across the global music, audiophile, immersivephile, and professional sound community.

T.H.E. New York International Audio Show 2025
New York's only home hi-fi audio industry event is being held this weekend at the Hilton Hasbrouck Heights in the Meadowlands, New Jersey. This event will surely attract audiophiles and media from across the tri-state area. The event features a variety of home audio listening rooms, immersive demonstrations, and educational moments designed to showcase the latest in high-fidelity sound reproduction. Attendees can explore everything from analog turntables and vacuum tube amplifiers to lossless Hi-Res Audio digital streaming systems. Cinematic sound with New Film Festival of sorts. This year introduces a dedicated film festival that highlights the intersection of high-end audio and cinematic storytelling. An immersive audio theater within the venue will host screenings of independent films, documentaries, and sound design showcases, emphasizing how reference-grade audio systems can transform the movie-watching immersive audio experience. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between audiophile culture and the broader creative immersivephile arts, offering panels with filmmakers, sound engineers, and post-production specialists.

Around 60 high-end audio manufacturers will transform the Hilton into a multi-floor audio playground. The show's layout encourages intimate listening sessions, with hotel suites converted into acoustically treated demo rooms. Vinyl lovers can browse rare pressings, while tech-forward audiophiles explore the latest in DSP, room correction, and networked audio. T.H.E. Show's organizer emphasizes community, inviting attendees to engage with designers, engineers, and fellow enthusiasts. With its blend of high-end tech, artistic storytelling, and grassroots passion, the New York International Audio Show for audiophiles in New Jersey is this weekend's tri-state hi-fi event of the year.

10 / 23 / 25

Rogue Audio Stereo 100 'Dark' Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review
Musical purity and natural ease bring out the very best in your loudspeakers.
Review By Ric Mancuso
Rogue Audio's designer Mark O'Brien has been on a tear lately with updated and new models that are setting the bar higher for the competition. I recently wrote about the new Rogue Audio Pharaoh II and the Sphinx Model 3 before the Stereo 100 Dark as reviewed here. You might say, they all came first under the checkered flag. Mark is a high-performance car and motorbike enthusiast, along with being driven — no pun intended — by his passion for premium audio high-end sound. I guess you could call him a gearhead. Hey, aren't we all at some level? Funny, how speedy motorbikes are a thing with other audio designers in the industry. To name a few, EveAnna Manley of Manley Audio, Sean Casey of Zu Audio, and Mark O'Brien of Rogue Audio. I have an exercise bike.
---> Rogue Audio Stereo 100 'Dark' Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review.

High-End Audio Sound? Audiophile Music? Both? What?
Some basic questions about our hobby.
Article By Roger Skoff
I first wrote about how music and sound interrelate to  enhance each other years ago within my 2018 article Coming At It From Both Directions ). At that time, I looked at it – even after more than half a century as a music lover and audiophile – more from point of view of an audiophile drawn to great music and cultural expansion by a love of great sound than as a music lover carried inexorably in the other direction by a search for greater involvement in and enjoyment of one of humanity's greatest arts. Now, like Joni Mitchell, I'm seeing things from both sides. Here are my latest thoughts on the subject. They say that the difference between audiophiles and music lovers is that music lovers buy a system to listen to their music and audiophiles (I and my friends call ourselves "Hi-Fi Crazies") buy music to listen to their system.
---> High-End Audio Sound? Audiophile Music? Both? What?

10 / 22 / 25

This Weekend: Audio Video Show 2025 In Warsaw
This weekend, Warsaw becomes the epicenter of luxury audio innovation as the Audio Video Show 2025 opens its doors to audiophiles, tech enthusiasts, and industry insiders from across Europe. The 27th edition of Audio Video Show, running October 24th through 26th, transforms Warsaw's PGE Narodowy Stadium and two luxury hotels—Golden Tulip and Radisson Blu Sobieski—into immersive listening environments. With nearly 230 exhibitors and 188 presentation rooms, the event is now the second-largest of its kind in Europe. Attendees can experience cutting-edge audio and video systems ranging from reasonably-prices to over one million Euro, with no sales pressure—just pure sonic exploration. From flagship loudspeakers and reference-grade turntables to ultra-premium home cinema setups, the show offers a rare chance to compare elite gear side by side. Bother major leading brands and niche manufacturer will be showcasing their finest home audio equipment, while boutique Polish manufacturers bring handcrafted excellence to the fore. Beyond the gear, Audio Video Show 2025 delivers rich cultural programming that blends technology with artistry. Visitors can attend live music performances, meet special guests, and explore Poland's largest headphone zone and vinyl record fair. Over 50 headphone brands will showcase everything from budget marvels to exotic electrostatics, while vinyl lovers can browse rare pressings and get autographs from artists.

Special guests this year include Andrzej Smolik, Halina Frąckowiak, Marek Niedźwiecki, and other icons of Polish music and media. The show also features curated listening sessions, expert panels, and masterclasses on topics like room acoustics, streaming fidelity, and analog preservation. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a curious newcomer, the event offers a multisensory journey through the future of high-end entertainment. With its blend of luxury, technology, and cultural depth, Audio Video Show 2025 continues to elevate Warsaw's status as a global destination for high-end audio culture. The event's unique format—spread across three venues—allows attendees to experience systems in realistic home-like settings, from intimate hotel suites to expansive stadium halls. This year's show also places a spotlight on sustainable audio design, with several exhibitors debuting eco-conscious materials and energy-efficient components. As the lines between lifestyle, luxury, and listening continue to blur, Audio Video Show stands as a beacon for those who believe sound is not just heard, but felt.

10 / 21 / 25

RIAA: Latin Music Reaches ~$500M In 2025 Mid-Year Report
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced that U.S. Latin recorded music revenue reached $490.3 million at the 2025 mid-year mark, reflecting a 5.9% increase over the same period in 2024. This marks the 12th consecutive year of mid-year growth for the genre, which now accounts for 8.8% of total U.S. recorded music revenue. Streaming continues to dominate the Latin music market, contributing 98% of total revenue, with paid subscriptions alone generating $271.1 million—an 11.2% year-over-year increase. RIAA VP of Research Matt Bass credited the genre's momentum to its cross-cultural appeal and the strategic efforts of artists and labels. "Latin music in the U.S. continues to gain popularity and generate increased value thanks to the incredible artists whose music connects across language and geographical barriers," Bass stated. He emphasized streaming's role in expanding access to both legacy acts and emerging stars, positioning Latin as the second-fastest growing genre in the country.

Beginning in 2025, RIAA transitioned to wholesale revenue reporting to better reflect the money flowing back into the creative ecosystem and align with global standards. This change underscores the evolving nature of the music industry, shaped by new platforms and business models. With total streaming revenue for Latin music climbing to $481.6 million and Luminate ranking it among the top four streaming genres, the report highlights Latin music's growing influence and commercial vitality.

10 / 20 / 25

audioXpress' November 2025 Issue
Editorial: Algorithms, Systems, And Ubiquitous DSP
headPro Audio Processor Headphone Correction
Orchard Audio Valencia Balanced Headphone Amplifier
The imersiv D-1 Dual Path HDR-A DAC
Solving the Spatial Audio Puzzle From Voice Calls To Virtual Presence
DSP, AI, and Edge Processing Market Update
Music Style Transfer Explained
Danville Signal's dspNexus 2/8 Part 1
How About a Hollow-State Live-Sound System?
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "Signal Processing—mostly in the digital domain (DSP), but also not forgetting any form of analog signal processing at some stage—is currently an essential discipline in audio. It's always curious to see discussions among hifi enthusiasts about what they recognize as being "acceptable" to do or not do with DSP—when in fact it is virtually everywhere in today's audio technology. And why would "analog" signal processing be any "better" than "digital signal processing" these days? More intriguing is debating the merits of fully integrated speaker design with optimized amplification and signal processing, which these days is a standard in professional studio monitors ...independently of whether the electronics reside inside the cabinet or not. Why would a speaker design for home listening be any different? As demonstrated countless times, signal processing can be many different things, from helping achieve ideal active crossovers, compensate for the room acoustics, or adjust frequency response targets with different goals (a more enjoyable listening experience being an acceptable objective that is completely different from achieving a linear neutral response for reference monitoring). The fast evolution of signal processing is what powers today's modern technology."
---> audioXpress November 2025 Issue.

10 / 16 / 25

Toronto Audiofest 2025 High-Fidelity Audio Showcase
Toronto Audiofest 2025 will launch this weekend at The Westin Toronto Airport, drawing audiophiles, music lovers, industry insiders, and curious newcomers to one of North America's premier high-end audio events. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Toronto Audiofest 2025 show report / coverage will be online shortly after the event. Running from October 17th through 19th, the show features over 100 exhibitors across multiple floors, showcasing the latest in stereo systems, streaming technology, and immersive sound environments. Legacy stereo systems, modern immersive audio, and personal audio EARVANA, Canada's first dedicated headphone festival where attendees can demo flagship models from leading brands in a quiet, curated listening space.

Visitors can experience both Hi-Res Audio stereo and multi-room audio setups, high-resolution true lossless music streaming, plus analog turntable and reel-to-reel rigs designed for both performance and aesthetic appeal. The Toronto Audiofest also includes panel discussions, product launches, and hands-on demos that cater to both seasoned audiophiles and curious first-timers. Beyond the gear, Toronto Audiofest fosters a vibrant community atmosphere where music lovers connect over shared passions. The show's layout encourages exploration, with themed rooms offering curated sound experiences and opportunities to speak directly with designers and engineers. Enjoy the Music.com looks forward to seeing you there! Whether attendees are seeking their next upgrade or simply indulging in sonic discovery, Toronto Audiofest 2025 delivers a weekend of craftsmanship, culture, and cutting-edge audio innovation.
---> Toronto Audiofest 2025 High-End Audio Show Report.

High Style In High-End Audio
You don't need to be an Audiophile OG to chill with a sense of style.
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
Have been taking photos of audiophile gear for many decades, and am always impressed by the creative flow of many designs. Below are a very small sampling of the incredibly talented engineering and design by a variety of high-end audio manufacturers. Please note that photo descriptions are also vintage, so some products may not be available and / or pricing has changed. Enjoy! Oh by Tutondo had perhaps the most stylish purpose-built listening chair as a pair of their dual cone round loudspeakers are placed right and left of the listener at precise placement as acoustic foam wraps around the remaining section behind the listener. Perhaps it is another offshoot of headphone listening? A small subwoofer on the floor assists in producing the lowermost frequencies. Alas, it is not for sale but the total price is about €1000 for the chair and €1300 according to the loudspeaker representative. So here is a hint to anyone reading this. You have a photo and basic design idea, now get to building it and you're welcome.
---> High Style In High-End Audio.

Sonus faber Olympica @ World Of McIntosh NYC
A good high-end system is akin to a time machine.
Review By Tom Lyle
Last year I took a tour of World Of McIntosh, a very impressive five-story luxury townhouse in the Soho neighborhood of downtown New York City. World Of McIntosh is an amazing place, packed with working audio systems featuring gear from McIntosh, Sonus faber, Pro-Ject Audio Systems, Audio Research, and more. This luxurious space is used as an event space, for invitation only audio tours, and for anything else one who wants to use a space "where music and design are merged in a way that's striking, memorable, and undeniably enjoyable". While I was there last year I didn't take a dip in their heated indoor swimming pool, which is one of only 11 privately owned pools located in NYC, or watch any films on their 160" projection screen, but I did hear some great music on a number of audio systems, and even had time for a latte in their custom-built fully functioning kitchen. Last month I was again invited to World Of McIntosh townhouse, this month to hear the newest Sonus faber product line, their Olympica Nova, which, according to Sonus faber updates their older models with new crossovers and drivers, new cabinet structures, and internal volume tuning.
---> Sonus faber Olympica @ World Of McIntosh NYC.

10 / 15 / 25

The Tokyo International Audio Show 2025 Hi-Fi Event
The 2025 edition of the prestigious Tokyo International Audio Show runs from October 17th through 19th at the Tokyo International Forum, marking the event's 42nd edition and reaffirming its place as one of Asia's most patient, demo-focused gatherings for audiophiles, immersivephiles, and industry professionals. Organizers emphasized a relaxed listening environment, running advance-reservation entry and staggered demo schedules to preserve sound quality and give visitors time with each system. The show's layout favors room demonstrations over crowded booths, letting attendees judge equipment in near-real listening conditions. Another benefit, unlike many others shows throughout the world, Japanese crowds tend to be quiet, especially within listening rooms as a show of respect.

Exhibitors and product launches will span the full audio spectrum, from high-end room systems and audiophile tube electronics to a dense selection of headphones and personal audio gear; the program lists more than 200 brands represented by roughly 33 Japanese and international exhibitors. Several manufacturers plan to use the Tokyo platform for regional debuts and extended listening sessions, with attention focused on new Hi-Res Audio DACs, integrated amplifiers, and modular headphone systems that aim to blend modern digital performance with classic analog warmth. Show floor activity will reflect broader industry trends toward personalization and hybrid signal chains. Many booths paired room treatments and calibrated source chains to showcase subtle differences between digital filters, tube rectification choices, and loudspeaker voicing, producing lively technical discussions among engineers and enthusiasts. The event's schedule includes panel talks and maker Q&A sessions that highlight product development stories.

10  /14 / 25

One Month Away: Capital Audiofest 2025 Show
Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2025 is set to take place from November 14th to 16th at the Hilton Rockville in Maryland, continuing its legacy as the East Coast's largest and most beloved high-end audio show. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, offering three full days of immersive listening experiences, gear demos, and community engagement.

• Multiple AV Rooms. That's right, immersivephiles rejoice! 
• Nightly After Hours Parties!
• Over 120 Rooms and 50 Booths!
• Free Fun Photo Booth - Photos directly to your email!
• The Washington Room is now a large Demo room! Guess who? 
• Guest Speakers/Seminars have moved into the Atrium! Three full days.
• CAF added two large Demo rooms across the street at the EVEN Hotel!
• CAF has two nights of great live music! See the The Nighthawks and Ultrafaux 
• Bring your entire family! Students are FREE!
• Purchase your tickets online beforehand and beat the lines.
---> Enjoy the Music.com's Exclusive Capital Audiofest 2025 Show Report.

10 / 09 / 25

World Premiere Review!
Art Audio Opus 4 And Carissa Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review
Two amps from Art Audio and two pairs of speakers from Quad determine ideal combinations.
Review By Bob Grossman
My musical listening times have been quite active and busy over the past couple of months as I have mixed and matched various combinations of two vintage Quad speaker models along with two new beautiful amplifiers from Art Audio based in Nottingham, U.K. I have been on a year-long listening and learning pilgrimage revisiting memories and prior experiences from hearing Quads decades ago. I acquired restored Quad 57 and 63 speakers from the renowned specialist Sheldon Stokes of SDS Labs in New Hampshire, USA as the starting point for understanding and hearing both electrostatic models designed by Peter Walker. The focus of this review project is the Art Audio Carissa stereo amplifier and the Art Audio Opus 4 monoblock amplifier pair. Both amplifiers were used in rotation for both pairs of speakers.
---> Art Audio Opus 4 And Carissa Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review.

World Premiere Review!
Margules Audio U-280SC 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review
Realistic sound with extended frequency extension... plus tube rollers can rejoice too!
Review By Tom Lyle
Margules Audio is a high-end audio company that produces a full line of components. It is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico, and although the Margules Audio U-280SC 30th Anniversary Limited Edition vacuum tube stereo amplifier review you're about to read is brand new, the company has been in business since the early 1980s. The Margules family – now including third and fourth-generation members – has been involved in audio in one way or another since the early part of the twentieth century, when Mr. Jacob Margules, a European engineer. He also contributed to the building of radio stations and electrification in Mexico as they manufactured wind-up gramophones, followed by tube radios, plus they distributed industrial parts too.
---> Margules Audio U-280SC 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Vacuum Tube Amplifier Review.

10 / 08 / 25

AuroMasters Streaming Music Service For Immersivephiles
Goer Dynamics B.V. today announced that its adaptive streaming codec AURO-CX is powering AuroMasters, a newly launched global music streaming platform dedicated to immersive audio, marking a major advance for high-resolution three-dimensional sound delivery. The service positions AURO-3D technology at the center of a commercial effort to bring studio-grade immersive music to mainstream listeners and to revive album-focused listening with a curated catalog of remastered and reimagined releases. AuroMasters bills itself as the world's first Immersive Music Jukebox, offering both legacy albums and new talent mixed in Auro-3D and presented through an experience designed by Grammy Award-winning engineers. AuroMasters deploys AURO-CX in Adaptive Bitrate mode so the same high-resolution master recording is delivered with the best possible quality for each listener's network conditions, rather than downscaling to a separate low-resolution file. That dynamic delivery preserves immersive detail and artistic intent whether a listener is on a stable home connection, mobile bandwidth, or an Android TV, and requires no specialized gear beyond a phone and headphones or an AURO-3D or Dolby Atmos compatible speaker setup.

The platform uses a credit-based monetization system that lets users preview music for free and unlock full tracks on demand with per-track prices starting around €1.50 to €2.00, and it initially launches in Europe, the UK, the USA, and Japan with more markets coming soon. "With AuroMasters, we are realizing a long-standing dream: bringing Immersive Music in studio-quality directly to listeners everywhere," said Wilfried Van Baelen, CEO and Founder of AuroMasters, underscoring the service's artist-focused economics and tighter fan-creator relationships. Rudy Van Duppen, CEO of Goer Dynamics, added that AURO-CX, built on AURO-3D's two-decade legacy, ensures seamless delivery of studio-grade 3D audio across devices and networks. The combined technology and business model aim to rebalance streaming economics while making high-emotion, three-dimensional music accessible to consumers at scale.

10 / 07 / 25

Musical Artist Dominique Fils-Aimé At HIGH END 2026
The HIGH END SOCIETY has named Dominique Fils-Aimé as the official brand ambassador for HIGH END 2026, which takes place June 4th through 7th (2026) at the Austria Center Vienna in the music-rich city of Vienna. Under the theme The Power of Music, the trade show positions the celebrated Montreal singer as a living example of music's ability to connect people across genres and cultures. Fils-Aimé will attend the show in person and serve as guest of honor at the opening press conference, reinforcing the event's cultural as well as technological focus. Dominique Fils-Aimé is celebrated for a voice that bridges blues, jazz, soul, and Afro-American music history with contemporary sonic explorations, and her work has won critical acclaim and multiple awards, including several Juno Awards and Polaris Prize nominations. HIGH END Managing Director Stefan Dreischärf highlights her fit for the role, saying the organization "was able to enlist an extraordinary musician who stands for emotional depth, artistic diversity and audiophile quality," and that she underscores the show's international credo of blending music, technology and culture. Her presence promises curated musical moments and a visible embodiment of the show's theme throughout the program.

After 21 years in Munich, and some years before that in Frankfurt, HIGH END's move to Vienna marks a major milestone for the world's leading high-end audio trade show, with invitations to exhibitors already sent and registrations showing strong early interest for the new Austria Center Vienna venue. The four-day event will assemble hundreds of exhibitors from more than 40 countries, serving as the sector's primary B2B platform where manufacturers, dealers and representatives meet, conduct business and reveal innovations alongside immersive listening experiences. Framed by Vienna's storied musical heritage, HIGH END 2026 aims to launch a culturally inspired chapter that blends commercial momentum with artistic programming and heightened international attention.

10 / 06 / 25

Hi-Fi+ October 2025 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: A Stream Of New Hi-Fi Products To Enjoy
D'Agostino Pendulum Integrated Amplifier
Allnic Audio D-15000 Signature OTL/OCL DAC
Kharma Elegance dB9-Diamond Floorstanding Loudspeaker 
Metronome c/AQWO 2 DAC And Streamer
Musical Fidelity M8x Digital-To-Analogue Converter
Diptyque DP115 Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Burson Timekeeper Voyager Mono Power Amplifiers
Saltwood Sounds Finisterre Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Fell Audio Amp Integrated Amplifier 
Synergistic Research PowerCell 8 SX Power Conditioner
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "As we lean into the last months of 2025, hi-fi+ approaches two landmarks; our annual Awards issue and our 250th edition. The naysayers still claim the end of the audio business and printed media are only days away from imminent demise. We're still going 26 years and coming up for 250 issues later, and the steady stream of new audio products continue to amaze. Maybe those reports are greatly exaggerated! It's easy to catastrophise and confuse 'change' with 'collapse'. No one would deny the audio world has changed greatly since 1999. But that change is more often than not for the better. Yes, the roadmap for CD-based sources looks to take the format through some very arid places. But, equally, we're seeing the blossoming of really great sounding streaming products at all levels. The 'at all levels' part shouldn't be understated. We're seeing a flourishing of extremely affordable audio, offering good performance while still at low prices."
---> Hi-Fi+'s October 2025 High-End Audio Magazine.

10 / 01 / 25

Just Posted! October's Exciting Luxury Audio Review Magazine
Exclusive first-look gear reviews — a must-read issue.
The October issue of Enjoy the Music.com's Review Magazine delivers a rich mix of in-depth gear reviews, editorial features, and sonic storytelling aimed at serious listeners and industry insiders. We have multiple World Premiere gear reviews this month, with detailed evaluations of Voxativ's Hagen2 Tower high-end loudspeakers, the outstanding Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords, the impressive Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC... with each review focused on real-world listening impressions, build quality, and how products perform within a luxurious audio system. The issue's editorial balances a discussion about technical measurements with evocative descriptions, helping you understand both the specifications and the emotional impact of standout components.

This edition also includes feature articles that explore trends shaping the high-end audio landscape, including a flashback about the problems with CD rot from industry experts. For enthusiasts seeking actionable insight, Enjoy the Music.com's October 2025 Review Magazine offers tips, advice, and suggestions for getting the best from your power cables and in achieving a cohesive soundscape. Whether you're refining a high-end audio reference sound system within a dedicated listening room, something modest for your home office, or exploring aspirational audiophile upgrades, this issue provides practical guidance, inspiration, and focused reviews to help you make informed decisions. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!
---> October's Exciting Luxury Audio Review Magazine.

Not Even The (Audiophile) Earth Is Flat
The myth of 'Flat Frequency Response'.
Article By Roger Skoff
Back well over half a century ago, that's 50 years, when I was a kid Hi-Fi Crazy, I had no money (kids never do), but I had been bitten badly by the High-Fidelity Audio (Hi-FI) bug, and – if I couldn't buy all of the toys and goodies that I so thoroughly lusted after, I could at least learn about them. So, like, I suspect, so many of us, I read everything I could find about Hi-Fi and Hi-Fi gear and started collecting (Yes, and even memorizing) "spec" sheets. Most manufacturers don't provide them nowadays but, back then, everybody, and I and all my young Hi-Fi Crazy friends put together our own libraries of spec sheets and product literature,  and would sit around listening to our used, hand-me-down, DIY, or kluged together "systems" and learnedly discuss the wonders and glories of all the stuff we couldn't afford. In the beginning (just to let you know how far back this was), everything was mono(phonic), but as time went on, it all – especially after 1957, when stereo LPs first came out – became stereo gear that we would dream of and pontificate about.
---> Not Even The (Audiophile) Earth Is Flat.

Flashback: The Mechanism Of CD Rot
Article By Mark P. Fishman
The BAS Speaker Volume 31 No. 3
Having read Brad Meyer's concerns about deterioration of CD-Rs (BASS V31 No2), specifically rising error rates with both radius and age, I think some explanation of mechanism is in order. For much of what I write below, credit should go to Mike Richter, who has been at this far longer than I, has had access to better tools, and has burned many more CDs. There are a couple of points of interest in Meyer's story. One is related to aging of CD players, which are not just electromechanical devices with special-purpose embedded computers, but are, crucially, electro-optical solid-state devices. When transistors were introduced, one of their selling points was that they aged far more slowly than vacuum tubes, and failed far less often. In marketing-speak (NB: a pejorative term), they last forever. The lasers used in CD players (and other optical-media devices) are laser diodes,  not the gas or crystal lasers used in science fiction as death rays or cutting tools.
---> Flashback: The Mechanism Of CD Rot.

World Premiere Review!
Big Sound, Small Size: Voxativ Hagen2 Tower Loudspeaker Review
Performing the most musical magical trick!
Review By Paul Schumann
Growing up, I had a neighborhood friend who did magic. He was always working on new illusions to incorporate into his act. Sometimes he had to build an apparatus, and others were sleight of hand. To start, he would practice the new illusion for endless hours in front of the mirror. Once the kinks were worked out, he would try it out in front of some of his neighborhood friends. When he did this, he added an extra layer of challenge for himself. He would show us how the trick worked before he performed it. That way, we knew what to look for. He knew he had mastered the illusion if he could still fool us. He was a master of his craft, and he still does magic shows for fun. Our audio systems, as ardent readers of Enjoy the Music.com know, can perform magic tricks. They take music that has been recorded in some medium, convert it to electrical signals, and turn those signals into vibrations that we perceive as music.
---> Big Sound, Small Size: Voxativ Hagen2 Tower Loudspeaker Review.

World Premiere Review!
Greater Emotional Connection: Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords Review
Going deeper into the inner details of the music you love.
Review By Rick Becker
The invitation for Enjoy the Music.com to review a new Audience Front Row Reserve powerChord from John McDonald, President of Audience AV, came as a complete surprise offer out of the blue. At $7500 each (1.5-meter), they would be two levels above the $2500 Synergistic Research power cords that grace most of my components. It would be an adventure into uncharted territory for me, were it not for the Furutech Project V1 Power Cable at $10,000, which came bundled with their excellent Furutech NCF Power Vault power conditioner I had recently reviewed. I accepted John's offer reluctantly because I wasn't convinced that power cords of that price would make a commensurate improvement. I also wasn't sure a single power cord would enable me to reach a valid conclusion. In the past, Synergistic Research had supplied enough power cords to feed my system from source to power amp. In the lower to moderate price ranges, the improvements were easily recognized and justified the increased costs.
---> Greater Emotional Connection: Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords Review.

The Ultimate Music Majesty: Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC Review
A glorious reach out and touch sound that invites you to listen more.
Review By Tom Lyle
Lindemann Audio is a German high-end audio company that has been in operation for over thirty years, just as the 30th anniversary of Enjoy the Music.com is being celebrated in 2025! In that time, Lindemann became known for being an innovative company that designed and manufactured excellent-sounding and well-built digital and other audio products at a reasonable price. Lindemann produces three series of products, three of which are digital components, and the other are loudspeakers. Lindemann's Woodnote series offers two compact-sized components, both of which are minimalist in design: the SOLO and the COMBO. The SOLO is a streamer / DAC, the COMBO is also a steamer / DAC, but also contains an internal amplifier in its similarly sized cabinet. I chose to review Lindemann's Woodnote SOLO rather than their COMBO because the SOLO will appeal more to audiophiles looking to integrate an extremely well-built and cleverly designed streamer / DAC into their system.
---> The Ultimate Music Majesty: Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC Review.

Make Your Listening Room A Listening Room
Roger Skoff writes about how to enjoy your music more without spending a lot more money.
Article By Roger Skoff
Many years ago, a wealthy friend asked me for advice on spending the $100,000 he had budgeted for a new stereo system. After going through all of the usual questions with him, like "What kind of music do you like?"; "How loud do you like to play it?"; "How big is your listening room?"; "When you're listening to music, what do you listen for?"; and so on, I told him something like: "If I had a hundred thousand to spend on a system, I'd spend thirty thousand on all of the component, including the record player (turntable, arm, and cartridge), the CD player, the speakers – remember that this was a lot of years ago, and that a really great speaker system at the time, the Avalon Ascent, for example, was only about $15,000 – plus all of the electronics, and all of the cables. Then I would spend twenty thousand on creating and furnishing an acoustically as-near-perfect-as-possible listening room. And, finally, I would keep the remaining fifty grand for use toward my (then of the appropriate age) daughter's college education."
---> Read Make Your Listening Room A Listening Room.

Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 Loudspeaker Review
A new and innovative design in speaker technology.
Review By Dr. Matthew Clott
You might have to stand on your head for this review because Zoltán Bay turned the concept of speaker production upside down and inside out when he created the Bay Radial Speaker (BRS) Tweeter. And when you see the absolutely unique and creative Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 speaker design ($60,000), you're not going to be able to figure out how to stand, so just have a seat and enjoy the read. Maybe have the computer or tablet read it to you while you listen to your favorite composition in the background.... Be sure to grab your favorite beverage and have that cute dog (or cat) of yours sit in your lap and snuggle in; this is gonna be good! Decades of research, and over 35 years in the industry, led Mr. Bay to a unique radial sound projection system. In essence, it is a cylindrical membrane surface capable of changing its diameter. As with a more standard speaker cone, the pulsations of the cylinder create sound in the direction of radiation but in a perfect 360 degree omni-directional wavefront.
---> Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 Loudspeaker Review.

Pass Labs XP-17 Phono Preamp &
Pass Labs X250.8 Power Amplifier Review
Impressive sound quality that we've come to expect from Pass Labs.
Review By Tom Lyle
For quite some time I've been using a Pass Laboratories power amplifier, phono stage, and headphone amplifier as references in my listening room. There were times I thought that some might think I was a spokesperson for this brand of equipment! I could see how some might get that idea, because not only do I use three Pass Labs components in my system, I also will tell anyone who will listen that I consider Pass Laboratories' high-end audio components the best in their respective price classes. Then again, those who have read my reviews of other brands of audio equipment will be able to tell that I approach each review with an open mind. I attempt to be as objective as possible, and other than the fact that I happen to have three Pass Labs components as references, I've never shown a hint of favoritism towards any component or brand of component in any of my reviews. It is quite obvious that I consider music more important than whatever audio equipment that might be in my system at the time.
---> Pass Labs XP-17 Phono Preamp & X250.8 Power Amplifier Review.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

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