Top Stories

Shanling UP4 Ver.22 - Portable DAC/Headphone Amplifier
Shanling seems to understand perfectly well the needs of the discerning audiophile who is often on the move, so they are offering a small but very interesting suitable device, the UP4.

MSB Technology The Discrete DAC - D/A Converter.
The Discrete DAC is MSB's smallest D/A converter, but that doesn't mean many things on absolute terms. What we are dealing with here is a design based on their custom conversion approach, featuring a top-quality construction and, in our DUT configuration, is accompanied by a smart USB line isolation system. This is digital audio at its best!

hARt Lab Tune Three - Power Amplifier.
In our first contact with a new manufacturer from Greece, we've had the opportunity to review a power amplifier that stands out, not only with its build quality but with its architecture and ideas behind it. In the field of high-performance audio, there is nothing more attractive than some out-of-the-box ideas!
News & Industry Update

M3x DAC: A Musical Fidelity DAC made for the high end customer on a budget.
A year after introducing their top-of-the-line M6x DAC, MF is following up with its little brother the M3x DAC, designed and built in Europe.

Luxman announced new flagship turntable, the PD-191A.
The PD-191A incorporates an all-new tonearm, drive system, record mat and PWM/PID rotation speed controller, while other key features include Luxman’s underslung chassis design with a 15mm aluminum top plate and a massive, 5.2 kg aluminum platter.

Bowers & Wilkins brings exceptional sound quality and unprecedented value to its new 600 Series.
Bowers & Wilkins says that their sixth iteration of 600 Series dramatically improves the range's legendary combination of outstanding value and audio performance. The new 600 Series brings high-end sound quality within reach, applying B&W's cutting-edge technologies and leading design.

Sony Interactive Entertainment acquired Audeze.
Sony Interactive Entertainment announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Audeze, a leading audio technology brand and pioneer of high-end gaming headphones. The acquisition will strengthen SIE’s efforts to continue innovating when it comes to the audio experience of Playstation games.

D700: TAD's Reference Series CD/SACD Player.
The TAD-D700 incorporates the third-generation Ultra-High-Precision Crystal Generator (UPCG) and other performance enhancements to replace its predecessor, the commercially and critically acclaimed TAD-D600, introduced in 2010.

Technics unveiled their next generation of direct drive turntables, the GR2.
Technics has released their legendary and widely acclaimed SL-1200/1210GR turntable in a new GR2 version, with a revolutionary new drive control method.

Bryston introduced the BP-19 Preamplifier.
Bryston has announced the ultra-high-performance BP-19 analog preamplifier. The BP-19 leverages years of R&D and many design innovations that were achieved during the development of the multi-award-winning BR-20 preamplifier.

Revela: Quad's first loudspeaker series for years!
Quad, the distinguished British audio brand, is launching their first new speakers since 2016. The Revela 1 and Revela 2 harness highly evolved versions of classic Quad technologies that can be traced back to 1949 and Quad’s first speaker system, the Corner Ribbon.
Equipment Reviews...

S.M.S.L DO100 - HO100 - DAC/USB DAC - Headphone Amplifier.
The pair of devices we review here are far more than just a sign of our times, which constantly require better systems for audio reproduction through headphones. It is a case study on how modern devices should be designed when aiming for the best possible value-for-money performance.

Review: ATC SCM 19 Loudspeaker.
SCM19, ATC's entry level "Hi-Fi" series top stand-mount model, proved to be one of the best compact loudspeakers you can buy in this price range, especially if what you are looking for is some real high fidelity behavior. How did they manage this? Read the review to find out…