High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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10 / 29 / 26

Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report Part 2: Hi-Fi Highlights, Great New Gear, And Must-Hear High-End Audio Systems
From the newest turntables and DACs to reference-quality loudspeakers and remarkable tweaks, Part 2 explores exciting audiophile exhibits and presentations.
Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report By Rick Becker
Bright sunshine woke me up in time to have breakfast in my room and scoot over to Walmart for an SD card. I packed up my gear and headed out with my laptop bag over one shoulder, and my hands filled with bags of clothing, road food, and a small travel cooler. As I pushed through the door to exit the hotel, a shadow swept across me, and a roar filled my head too quickly to trigger a fight-or-flight response. I didn't realize how close the Sheraton was to the airport. The trip to Walmart was easy, once I had located it on the computer last night. The guy at the photo desk was super courteous and helped me out by cutting open the impenetrable packaging. Happiness is lots of gigabytes on your SD card. Life was good again. If you entered at the main entrance to the Convention Center, there was a hallway to the right and another to the left. But if you entered from the Hotel Lobby, expecting to be at that same junction, you were likely to be confused. Naturally, that's the way I entered. Being a retired hitchhiker, I figured it out.
---> Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report Part 2: Hi-Fi Highlights, Great New Gear, And Must-Hear High-End Audio Systems.

10 / 28 / 26

Capital Audiofest 2026 Welcomes Returning Major Sponsor Enjoy the Music.com
Leading audio publication to deliver extensive Capital Audiofest 2026 coverage, featuring world-class hi-fi systems, immersive audio experiences, industry premieres, and its prestigious Best Of Capital Audiofest Blue Note Awards.
Enjoy the Music.com, a longstanding leading authority in high-end audio and luxury home entertainment since 1995, is proud to announce its continued sponsorship of Capital Audiofest 2026 (CAF 2026), Northeast America's most anticipated consumer audio event. Taking place from November 13th through 15th, and celebrating its 16th year, the renowned event continues to strengthen its reputation as the Northeast Coast's most celebrated gathering for high-performance audio, bringing together leading high-fidelity audio equipment manufacturers, passionate hobbyists, and newcomers eager to experience the latest innovations in music reproduction. Together, music lovers, audiophiles, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and members of the international audio press are excited to once again enjoy a weekend dedicated to exceptional sound and cutting-edge hi-fi audio innovations. CAF 2026 continues to strengthen its reputation as the most attended fall season gatherings for high-performance audio within the U.S.
---> Capital Audiofest 2026 Welcomes Returning Major Sponsor Enjoy the Music.com.

10 / 27 / 26

Capital Audiofest 2026: Three Days Of High-End Audio, Live Music, And Audiophile Music Discovery
Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2026 is set to once again become one of North America's premier destinations for audiophiles, music enthusiasts, and industry professionals when it returns to the Hilton Rockville in Rockville, Maryland, from November 13th through 15th. Now celebrating its 16th year, the renowned event continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the East Coast's most anticipated gatherings for high-performance audio, bringing together leading manufacturers, passionate hobbyists, and newcomers eager to experience the latest innovations in music reproduction. What began as a regional enthusiast gathering has grown into a nationally recognized showcase of the finest home audio technologies available today. CAF 2026 will feature an expansive roster of exhibitors representing everything from artisan audio brands and specialty manufacturers to internationally acclaimed luxury audio companies. Throughout the hotel, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of products, including reference-class loudspeakers, state-of-the-art amplifiers, digital-to-analog converters (DACs), turntables, streaming components, cables, and accessories designed to elevate the listening experience.

A defining characteristic of Capital Audiofest remains its celebrated room-to-room listening format and meeting music-loving friends. CAF 2026 how attendees can invest meaningful time auditioning systems in carefully optimized environments, allowing them to compare technologies, design philosophies, and sonic presentations firsthand. The 2026 edition is expected to feature numerous product introductions, exclusive demonstrations, and expertly tuned systems that help attendees discover how engineering excellence translates into authentic musical performance. Beyond the listening rooms, CAF 2026 continues to cultivate the welcoming and community-focused atmosphere that has made it a favorite among attendees. The popular Atrium Marketplace will once again offer an impressive selection of vinyl records, compact discs, audio accessories, collectibles, and hard-to-find music-related treasures. Evening activities will further enhance the festival experience with live musical performances, special Theater presentations, and tastings from local distilleries, providing plenty of opportunities for enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and celebrate a common passion for music.
---> Learn More At Our Capital Audiofest 2026 Show Report.

10 / 26 / 26

Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report Part 1
High-End Audio Highlights, New Gear Debuts, And Must-See Listening Rooms
Top-performing listening rooms, exciting product introductions, prestigious audio gear, and value-packed hi-fi sound systems that captivate music lovers.
Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report By Rick Becker
The clouds dispersed as I headed toward Buffalo early on Saturday morning, and not a single cloud appeared for the entire weekend in Toronto. Saturday was cool, and Sunday was a bit warmer. Whether the weather was a factor or the tentative state of the economy (due mostly to political turmoil), attendance seemed lighter this year. Or perhaps it was the spacious new venue at the Sheraton that made the crowd seem thin. The hotel was clearly visible on Dixon Road from either direction, but as I pulled into the parking lot (free for those attending the show), I wanted a banner of some sort to assure me I was there on the right weekend. A black, unmarked Pantera caught the eye of several visitors as we hiked in from the far corner of the parking lot. With two entrances to the show, the floor plan I had studied on the Audiofest website didn't correlate with the physical reality. As I was late to arrive due to heavier-than-usual traffic, the opening crowd had already dispersed among the sleeping room exhibitors in the hotel and the nineteen larger rooms in the conference center.
---> Toronto Audiofest 2026 Show Report Part 1: High-End Audio Highlights, New Gear Debuts, And Must-See Listening Rooms.

10 / 22 / 26

Kharma Elegance dB7-S Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
Gorgeous looks... and they look as good as they sound.
Review By Tom Lyle
Let's be clear. Kharma Elegance dB7-S are not the largest or the most expensive high-end loudspeakers one can buy. They aren't even the largest or most expensive speakers in the line that they are a part of. But they are gorgeous high-end speakers that sound as good as they look, and obviously designed, built, and are intended to be included in the best high-end audio systems that are owned by those that consider themselves to be discriminating audiophiles. One can place them into an existing system, or one can build a fine system around these speakers. Although, in both cases one must keep in mind that if one were to anthropomorphize these speakers it could be said of them that they do not suffer fools. In other words, these speakers will reveal both the sonic assets and flaws of upstream equipment more than most any other speaker I can think of right now.
---> Kharma Elegance dB7-S Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review.

T+A SDV3100HV Streaming DAC And PDT3100HV Disc Drive Review
T+A took a giant step forward with its HV series.
Review By Matthias Böde Of STEREO Magazine
Imagine if you had a free choice on the wheel of fortune. Over and over again. As often as you want! That's how it feels when you press the mighty volume control on T+A's brand new SDV3100HV Streamer-DAC-preamplifier, whereupon it jumps into source selection mode and scrolls through the numerous options in the turquoise illuminated display kind of like you would on a smartphone. The list seems nearly endless: it starts with "UPnP/DLNA" for your home network, continuing with the pre-installed links to streaming services Qobuz, Deezer and Tidal – no Spotify, because you can't expect anyone to be content with MP3 here. “USB Media" follows thereafter for sticks and hard drives, to which T+A offers two ports, one of which is conveniently accessible from the front. "Roon Ready" then indicates that the ingenious music management software can also be used. Every streamer offers access to the "Internet radio" with its myriad of programs, which is the next stop while scrolling.
---> T+A SDV3100HV Streaming DAC And PDT3100HV Disc Drive Review.

10 / 20 / 26

Enjoy The Music Like Never Before: Join Our FANtastic Social Media Community
For music lovers, audiophiles, and technology enthusiasts around the globe, Enjoy the Music.com is far more than a destination for high-end audio reviews and industry news. It is a thriving community where passion for music, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional sound quality come together every day. Whether you're exploring the latest reference-grade loudspeaker, discovering innovative digital audio technologies, or searching for your next favorite music release, our social media channels keep you connected to the excitement as it happens. Our social media pages are designed to be engaging, informative, and fun. Followers receive exclusive updates on world-class audio equipment, major industry events, new products, editorial features, and insightful conversations from some of the most experienced writers in high-end audio journalism. Just as importantly, our platforms provide a welcoming space where enthusiasts can share opinions, ask questions, and celebrate their love of music with like-minded people worldwide.

One of the most rewarding aspects of joining Enjoy the Music.com's community is the opportunity to interact with our talented writers and contributors. Many of our respected reviewers, editors, and industry experts actively participate in discussions, offering personal insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives on the products, technologies, and music that inspire them. It's a unique chance to connect directly with the voices behind the reviews and articles you enjoy reading. Of course, great music and high-performance audio are meant to bring joy, and that's exactly the spirit you'll find across our social channels. Along with expert commentary and breaking industry news, you'll discover a community filled with fun, laughter, enthusiasm, and happiness. From celebrating incredible music discoveries to sharing memorable listening experiences and exciting audio show coverage, our social pages are a daily destination for positive engagement and entertainment.

We invite you to become part of the conversation today. Join thousands of fellow music lovers, audiophiles, musicians, and tech enthusiasts by liking, following, and subscribing to Enjoy the Music.com's social media channels. As always in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music. 


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10 / 19 / 26

Pacific Audio Fest 2027: Music-Focused Premium Audio Experience
Pacific Audio Fest (PAF) will return January 15th through 17th, staging a music-first premium audio weekend at the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington in Seattle's Southport. The three-day event promises live performances, immersive listening sessions, and a broad marketplace of premium audio brands, designers, and dealers. Organizers say the move to a new waterfront venue and a renewed emphasis on music aim to reconnect listeners with the emotional power of great recordings. The festival is being shaped as a music-focused audio experience for listeners at every level, from curious beginners to seasoned audiophiles. Attendees can expect demonstrations spanning vinyl playback, loudspeakers, headphones, streaming systems, amplifiers, and complete listening rooms. Exhibits will showcase both budget-friendly starter setups and high-end systems, giving visitors hands-on opportunities to hear how different gear changes the way songs and records come to life. PAF organizers highlight the convenience of moving from listening rooms to evening entertainment and social spaces without leaving the property, making the festival both immersive and easy to navigate.

"Pacific Audio Fest is all about music first," said Jonny Wilson, co-owner of PAF. "The gear definitely matters because it helps people connect more deeply with the songs, artists, and recordings they already love. We want this show to feel welcoming to anyone who loves music, whether they are just beginning to explore better sound or have been chasing great listening experiences for years." The weekend will also feature live music, opportunities to meet designers, makers, and curated listening experiences intended to educate and inspire both new listeners and longtime enthusiasts. Exhibitor information, ticket details, hotel reservations, and event announcements will be posted on their website as the show develops. Pacific Audio Fest is described as a community-driven event that brings together music lovers, premium audio brands, record collectors, and industry makers for a weekend of demonstrations, live performances, and shared listening.

10 / 16 / 26

audioXpress' November 2026 Issue
Editorial: The Audio DSP Universe Expanded
Upmixing: From Stereo To Adaptive Spatial Listening
Improving Speed And Simplicity Of Multichannel In-Room Calibration Techniques
Sennheiser HD 480 Pro Headphones
High-End Active Acceleration Controlled Loudspeaker Part 2
Mark Gander And The Engineering Of JBL's Professional Era Part 2
Deep Neural Network Apps
Designing The Dynaco ST-70 Series 3
Loctal Tubes
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "For a magazine with roots in do-it-yourself audio and inspiration from self-made entrepreneurs and inventors, looking at how modern audio product development teams actually work can change our perspective on products—and on what constitutes good design. And now that perspective is changing again. No matter how tightly engineering and design teams are integrated, audio product development involves multiple disciplines, each with its own priorities and its own definition of "high quality." Those definitions work well enough within each domain—until the pieces are brought together. Then every design decision has to be considered in terms of its effect on the complete system. Most audio products today are developed by cross-functional program teams, not by a single "audio engineering" group. A complex system such as a modern soundbar requires a systems lead or technical program manager to coordinate acoustics, electronics, RF, embedded software, mechanical engineering, industrial design, test, quality, sourcing, and manufacturing. And none of those teams defines the relevant "quality" parameters on their own."
---> audioXpress November 2026 Issue.

10 / 15 / 26

Do You Really Need To Buy A Bugatti?
How expensive our hobby doesn't need to be.
Article By Roger Skoff
As understand it, Bugatti's latest-model car costs something like $4,500,000, goes well over 200 miles (320kM) per hour, and costs – at least the earlier Veyron model did – about $23,000 just for one of its regularly scheduled oil changes. I might be wrong, though; I haven't done any serious Bugatti shopping lately, and I don't ever intend to. I did, once have a super exotic car, though – a 1953 Siata factory team race car that had been built for that year's Targa Florio road race. I was just a kid, then, no more than about nineteen years old, and, frankly, although something more practical would certainly have been a far better choice, I didn't know any better. The car was extremely beautiful, very fast, and VERY prestigious: Everywhere I drove it, it was the center of attention, and I could enjoy the hope that, as its driver, I must be something special, too.
---> Do You Really Need To Buy A Bugatti?

Vivid Audio Kaya 25 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
A very special two-way, two-driver paradise for those on a 'budget'.
Review By Dr. Matthew Clott
Vivid Audio is a loudspeaker line I've known for some time, yet never taken serious interest in. Not because I was unimpressed, but because other than shows I never really had the opportunity to absorb what they can do in a proper room. I do know that many of my fellow reviewers hold Vivid in high regard and my interest has always been there. Recently, Bill Parish of GTT Audio took over import responsibilities and invited me over to experience the entire line at his place. Fortunately for me, Bill is 33 minutes away (about 14 miles) and an easy highway-free saunter west into rolling hills and gentle farmland (not sure what made it gentle, but it was gentle dammit!). Bill received me, along with Ewald Verkerk (Vivid Audio representative from South Africa) and I was treated to four rooms properly set up and beautifully representing the K25, K45, K90, G3 series 2, G2 series 2, and the spectacular G1 Spirit in Bill's reference room. It was a blast and I walked away with a solid appreciation for what Vivid can do and an open offer to review anything I just heard.
---> Vivid Audio Kaya 25 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review.

10 / 13 / 26

Hear360 Joins Audio Foundry Automotive Collaborative To Advance Next Gen Studio-Grade Spatial Audio
With lossless high-resolution immersive home audio starting to gain traction, The Audio Foundry has announced that Hear360 has joined its Automotive Collaborative, adding studio-grade spatial audio engineering, personalized rendering technologies, and professional tuning expertise to the organization's growing automotive ecosystem. The collaboration is designed to strengthen the development of immersive in-car audio experiences as automakers continue seeking higher levels of sound quality and personalization, which in home audio is also starting to gain market share. Hear360's addition brings significant audio engineering capabilities to the initiative. The company is recognized for its focus on spatial audio solutions, with technologies aimed at creating more realistic and engaging listening environments. By contributing studio-grade audio expertise to the Automotive Collaborative, Hear360 is expected to help support the integration of advanced hi-res lossless immersive audio formats and personalized sound rendering within future vehicle platforms.

The growing importance of premium home and in-vehicle entertainment systems has elevated audio quality from a convenience feature to a key differentiator for both luxury home-based and automotive brands. As consumers increasingly demand home-quality immersivephile^TM listening experiences while traveling, manufacturers are exploring new ways to deliver richer, more accurate, and highly personalized audio reproduction. Hear360's expertise aligns with these objectives, helping bridge the gap between professional studio environments and real-world automotive applications. Audio Foundry's Automotive Collaborative continues to bring together specialists from across the audio industry to encourage innovation in automotive sound system design and deployment. The addition of Hear360 expands the collective knowledge base available to participating organizations, particularly in areas involving spatial audio implementation, individualized listening experiences, and professional system tuning. This collaborative approach reflects the industry's broader movement toward more immersive and adaptive audio technologies.

With Hear360 now part of the Automotive Collaborative, the initiative gains additional expertise that could help shape the next generation of in-car entertainment experiences. As automakers continue investing in premium sound solutions, the partnership highlights the increasing convergence of professional audio engineering and automotive technology, with spatial audio and personalized rendering poised to play an increasingly important role in the future of connected mobility and immersivephile^TM home audio entertainment.

10 / 12 / 26

This Weekend: Toronto Audiofest 2026 To Deliver Canada's Best Fall Season Immersive High-Fidelity Audio Experience
The Toronto Audiofest 2026 returns October 16th through 18th at The Westin Toronto Airport, promising one of Canada's most immersive high-fidelity events of the year. With more than 100 exhibitors and thousands of attendees expected, the show continues its mission of elevating high-quality sound and strengthening the community of music lovers and audiophiles across Ontario. Over three days, visitors can explore hundreds of brands, audition cutting-edge loudspeakers, amplifiers, turntables, digital sources, and personal audio gear in professionally tuned rooms. The festival spans 8,000 sq. ft. of curated listening spaces designed to showcase the latest innovations in immersive high-end audio. The venue's reconfigured demonstration rooms offer an elegant, acoustically optimized environment ideal for serious listening.

A major highlight is EARVANA, Canada's only dedicated headphone event, featuring top global brands and new product launches. Attendees can test flagship headphones, portable DACs, and personal audio systems in a focused, hands-on environment. The show also includes artist meet-and-greets, industry-only gatherings, and special listening sessions that bring enthusiasts and manufacturers together. Toronto Audiofest 2026 also expands its popular Pitcher Perfect Pairings experience, created in partnership with Rorschach Brewery. This unique sensory journey pairs six craft beers with six curated soundscapes and audio systems, blending flavor and fidelity in a guided tasting adventure. Each ticket includes a three-day show pass, six tastings, and six take-home cans—making it one of the event's most anticipated attractions. Be sure to see Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Toronto Audiofest 2026 luxury high-end audio show coverage.

10 / 08 / 26

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.

Aavik Acoustics System Review
High-end audio equipment is made by those who love music.
Review By Tom Lyle
Aavik S-280 Streamer, U-280 Unity Integrated Amp with built-in DAC, Ansuz Acoustics Mainz8 A2 AC Power Distribution Bar, Mainz8 A2 AC Ansuz Power Cords, Speakz Speaker Cables, Digitalz Ethernet Cable, PowerSwitch A2 Ethernet Switch, Darkz C2t Resonance Control Devices, and Titanium Balls for Ansuz Acoustics Darkz C2t.
The subjects of this review feature components and accessories from two of the three brands designed and manufactured by The Audio Group Denmark, which acts as an umbrella company for Aavik Acoustics, Ansuz Acoustics, and Børresen Acoustics. The company was started by two Danes, Lars Kristensen, and Michael Børresen, who first met more than 20 years ago. Aavik Acoustics designs and manufactures many types of high-end audio components, such as amplifiers, DACs, phono stages, and streamers. Ansuz Acoustics products consist of what most audiophiles would call high-end audio accessories, cables, power distribution, streaming accessories, and resonance control devices.
---> Aavik Acoustics System Review.

10 / 06 / 26

hi-fi+ September 2026 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: The Audiophile Divide: Why Great Sound Inspires....
Trilogy 975 Phono Stage
dCS Rossini APEX v3.0 Digital Player
J. Sikora Aspire Turntable And Tonearm
Peak Consult Sinfonia Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Eversolo T10 Streaming Transport
Kuzma CAR 70 Moving-Coil Cartridge
Reiki Audio SuperSwitch X/Pro X PSU Network Switch
Acoustic Energy AE Active Active Stand-Mount Loudspeakers
Atlas Cables Hyper RCA R1/Hyper RCA Duo R1 Interconnect Cables
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "Listening to a really good audio system for the first time can be a transformational experience. Almost everyone reading this will have, at some formative point in their lives, heard what a really good stereo system can do and was instantly hooked. Sure, for some that becomes a lifelong obsession, and for others it's a 'dip in/dip out' punctuated equilibrium. But equally, there are some for whom that listening experience leaves them non-plussed. Why? I don't think either the 'they weren't discerning enough', 'they don't like music enough' or 'they weren't rich enough to afford these sorts of system' arguments hold water. I've met people of great discernment in other fields, who are left cold by good audio. Similarly, I know people who buy album after album and are always gig-hopping, but have a distinctly ho-hum system. And as for the 'not rich enough' argument... many of us developed an interest in this hobby in our teens, and we pawed the magazines and pressed our noses against shop windows with no possible way of affording what we dreamed of."
---> hi-fi+ October 2026 High-End Audio Magazine.

10 / 01 / 26

High-End Audio Reviews, Audiophile News & Luxury Hi-Fi Equipment: Enjoy the Music.com's October 2026 Review Magazine
Discover the latest high-fidelity audio equipment reviews, expert commentary, show coverage, and luxury audiophile gear.
The October issue of Enjoy the Music.com's Review Magazine delivers another exceptional collection of high-end audio reviews, in-depth analysis, and industry-leading editorial content designed for passionate music lovers and discerning audiophiles. As one of the most respected online destinations for premium audio since 1995, we continue our 30+ year tradition of bringing readers authoritative coverage of the finest products, technologies, and trends shaping the world of high-fidelity sound. Inside this month's issue, you will discover comprehensive world premiere evaluations of cutting-edge audio components, innovative technologies, and carefully curated articles that help bring recorded music closer to the emotional impact of a live performance. From analog front ends and reference-quality electronics to loudspeakers, and modern digital playback solutions, the October edition provides valuable insights for enthusiasts seeking the highest levels of musical realism.

Beyond the many world premiere and exclusive high-fidelity audio equipment reviews, Enjoy the Music.com's popular monthly magazine and timely industry news explores the industry's latest developments, offering readers timely coverage of emerging technologies, premium audio innovations, and noteworthy announcements. These features help you stay informed about the products before others find out. You are privy to audio engineering breakthroughs and trends influencing both today's marketplace and the future of immersive music reproduction. Our October issue also reflects Enjoy the Music.com being of service to both dedicated hobbyists and newcomers alike, this issue serves as an essential resource for making informed purchasing decisions and discovering new opportunities to elevate a listening system. Whether your passion lies in vinyl playback, digital audio, streaming, headphones, two-channel stereo, or ultra-high-end reference systems, the October issue offers something of value for every music enthusiast. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music.
---> High-End Audio Reviews, Audiophile News & Luxury Hi-Fi Equipment: Enjoy the Music.com's October 2026 Review Magazine.

An Audiophile's Journey: How Hi-Fi Shaped A Lifetime Of Music Discovery
From olden times monophonic sound systems to modern immersive high-end audio, one listener's path through classical, folk, world music, and today's Hi-Res Music lossless streaming hi-fi culture.
Editorial By Roger Skoff
When I was a kid, I was different from most other kids. For one thing, I was a kid audiophile. Having been exposed to hi-fi when I was just twelve and immediately falling in love with it, I had my own (mono, at first, because that's all there was until I was a wizened old man of fifteen) System, which I listened to in my bedroom while the rest of the family was in the living room watching TV. Even for monophonic (mono), what I had wasn't much: Starting with a cast-off Silvertone radio / phonograph player, I had—as I could afford (used, mostly), find, or scrounge them—added more, better, or just different parts (first a speaker, then a Heathkit FM tuner, then an Eico tube amplifier, and then... well, you know how it goes) until I had something as good as I could get with the resources available to me. (First, just my allowance and the occasional present, later, an after-school job.) When I turned sixteen, learned to drive, and got my first car....
---> An Audiophile's Journey: How Hi-Fi Shaped A Lifetime Of Music Discovery.

World Premiere Review!
AGD Forte Review: Inside the Dual-Mono GaN Amplifier
Redefining High-End Audio Performance Learn how AGD's latest GaN-based dual-mono design delivers stunning detail, effortless power, and true audiophile reference-grade musicality. 
Review By Brett Rudolph
AGD Productions is a company that focuses on bringing out the best possible sound using whatever technology is available. Alberto Guerra founded the company with this goal and a commitment to creating the most innovative products possible, without compromise. His work with GaN tube technology has brought him accolades and made him a leader in the audiophile world. Recently, I had the opportunity to do the world premiere review of AGD's Allegro. The newest addition to their product offerings represented their first integrated amplifier. It built on their already world-class amplifiers and added an R-2R DAC, streamer, and phono stage. Towards the end of the review, Alberto approached me and asked if I would be interested in reviewing their stand-alone AGD Forte. My usual response would be to humbly decline, as it is hard to review products from the same company. The similarities between these two products make it even more difficult to keep them straight and to write about them.
---> AGD Forte Review: Inside the Dual-Mono GaN Amplifier.

World Premiere Review!
Cinnamon Galle DAC Model II Review: A Reference-Level Digital Converter That Redefines Musical Truth & Seeks To Slay The Giants Of Analog With Next-Gen Digital
Inside the dual-mono, 27-bit resistor ladder DAC engineered to challenge analog supremacy and elevate hi-res streaming to deliver unprecedented tonal color, spatial density, and musical engagement for serious audiophiles and music lovers alike.
Review By Craig Clark
"For me, it's really been about bringing the kind of sound to my clients that allows them to, even if just for a moment, suspend disbelief. To double-check their reality. Do you know what I mean?" — Colin King, Gestalt Audio, Importer of Cinnamon products in the USA. Oh, yes, Colin. We audiophiles know exactly what you mean. Many of us have spent decades (I, personally, have logged five) pursuing the magical moments to which you allude. And we also know just how elusive this exalted experience can be, with occasional glimpses the rule and sustained looks far too rare. We set out on a musical journey, typically from a very young age, full of hope, aspirations, and a dream of hearing our favorite music reproduced in our homes with the kind of realism that moves us emotionally, and in those beautiful moments, connects us at a deeper level with the artists intent, perhaps even with a greater understanding of our collective selves.  But then, reality....
---> Cinnamon Galle DAC Model II Review: A Reference-Level Digital Converter That Redefines Musical Truth & Seeks To Slay The Giants Of Analog With Next-Gen Digital.

World Premiere Review!
WattGate 381 AU evo & 381 RH evo Review — Transformative Audio-Grade AC Receptacles That Elevate Your High-End Audio Sound System's Performance
How WattGate's gold- and rhodium-plated high-fidelity audio outlets deliver lower noise floor, stronger physical grip, and remarkable musical bliss.
Review By Paul Schumann
Ah, yes, the lowly AC outlet. It's the least glamorous gadget in our daily lives. If we need to charge a phone or vacuum the room, their location becomes critically important. Otherwise, once we plug a lamp or TV into one, we forget they are there. I'd never thought much about the outlet I use for my system, so when Brett of WattGate reached out for a review, I was intrigued. We audiophiles spend large sums on AC cables and power conditioners, so why wouldn't we care what we plug them into? WattGate, a sister company of Kimber Kable, makes two audio-grade AC receptacles: the 381 AU evo and 381 RH evo. Brett sent me both to review. These two outlets are identical in their basic construction. They have heavy-duty clamps with teeth terminals, heavy-duty triple wipe contacts, and accept 8 to 12 AWG wire. The housing of each is constructed of polycarbonate, and all the metals used are non-magnetic. The terminal clamps, mounting strap, rivets, and grounding strip are made of plated solid brass.
---> WattGate 381 AU evo & 381 RH evo Review — Transformative Audio-Grade AC Receptacles That Elevate Your High-End Audio Sound System's Performance.

Exclusive Review: Tough Nut Audio Footers Are A Game-Changer Upgrade For Audiophile Hi-Fi Equipment
Affordable vibration control and isolation that may transform your high-fidelity audio sound system.
Review By Rick Becker
Breaking into the high end for manufacturers has a fairly straightforward path, although there are variations on this theme. First, you come up with a product, and then you present it at a show. There you will meet reviewers and hopefully convince them to work their magic on your product to get the word out and generate consumer interest, either by direct sales or a distribution channel. Each of these steps has its own challenges and pitfalls, but it's a lot easier than, say, mining for rare earth metals or building commercial or military aircraft (drones excepted). Witness the large number of manufacturers in high end audio today, and their global reach. In my audio show coverage, I pay particular attention to new presenters, not just new products. This review explores a product from one such company with a growing reputation that I've been watching closely for several years.
---> Exclusive Review: Tough Nut Audio Footers Are A Game-Changer Upgrade For Audiophile Hi-Fi Equipment.

The Intro
Editorial By Art Dudley
Passions run high among music lovers. We vilify "bad" musicians (the ones we dislike), and we elevate marginally functional savants with a couple of two-minute singles and some album filler under their belts. When it comes to more unique and productive figures like Phil Spector, Jimi Hendrix, Wilhelm Furtwängler, John Cage, or [insert your own heroes and villains here], music fans either revere them as gods or dismiss them as meaningless. Sometimes there are shades in between, but perspective is at a premium. This tendency to paint things black or white spills over to the equipment we use to play back our favorite recordings. i've seen the cognoscenti dismiss people on the basis of no more information than their choice of power amp, though I suspect few of us are quite so one-dimensional in truth. Anyone with an internet connection can publish broadsides proclaiming their love for equipment and music and aim verbal barrages at their musical "enemies."
---> The intro by Art Dudley.

Voices From The Fringe?
Editorial By Joe Roberts
Audio today consists of a much wider range of practice than you'll find reported in the glossy mags. Some of the most interesting activity in the hobby takes place outside the borders that commercial producers of contemporary equipment accept as their playing field. There are vintage gear enthusiasts, modifiers of old and new gear, and people who build things that the manufacturers are wise to avoid - products with limited popular appeal or which are not economically viable to manufacture. Except for Audio Amateur / Glass Audio, there's no dedicated forum for do-it-yourself audio, one of the most rewarding facets of our hobby. Only a few decades ago DIY was an important part of the hobby for people as committed to it as we are. What happened? Since most magazines focus on the latest gear and currently fashionable technologies, any sense of the development of audio over the decades is lost.
---> Voices from the fringe?

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