Displaying items by tag: hiend - StereoLife Magazine

Final Audio Design has unveiled its next-generation flagship headphones, the D8000 DC and D8000 DC Pro, marking a new chapter in the Japanese manufacturer's fifty-year legacy of innovation. Known for its meticulous engineering and in-house technology, Final has redefined planar magnetic performance once again with a complete reworking of its pioneering Air Film Damping System (AFDS) and a renewed focus on acoustic precision. The 'DC' designation stands for 'Da Capo', meaning 'from the beginning' - a fitting name for headphones that represent a total reconstruction of Final's reference model. First introduced seven years ago, the original D8000 set a benchmark for planar magnetic design, introducing AFDS as a revolutionary solution to low-frequency distortion and limited diaphragm control. By using air pressure to regulate diaphragm movement, the system achieved deeper, more accurate bass and a broader soundstage. The new D8000 DC and DC Pro models take this principle further, with redesigned metal mesh structures, new airflow patterns, and an evolved acoustic chassis that unlocks even greater transparency and realism.

Sonus Faber has unveiled the Amati Supreme, a new floorstanding loudspeaker that represents the pinnacle of the Italian brand's acoustic innovation and design philosophy. Drawing inspiration from the flagship Suprema, the Amati Supreme combines reference-level performance with refined craftsmanship in a more compact and elegant form, reaffirming Sonus Faber's mastery of the union between engineering precision and artistic expression.

Marantz, one of the most revered names in audio for over 70 years, introduced the new 10 Series Collection of three reference-quality stereo products. Comprising the Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier, the SACD 10 Reference SACD player and the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player, the 10 Series Collection represents a new statement in high-end audio design and performance for Marantz, and is the first time the brand has released a new range reference high-end stereo components since 2016.

Developed over five years of extensive collaboration between all departments of the engineering team at the renowned Shirakawa Audio Works in Japan, the new 10 Series components embody unparalleled heritage, performance and contemporary luxury design. Built to the most demanding of standards, the design of each product is inspired by some of the most iconic hi-fi components in Marantz's storied history - yet at the same time, the engineering inside ensures that each component is both truly contemporary and ready to make the most of hi-fi's digital future.

The first product to be released from the new 10 Series Collection is the Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier, the most powerful one-box amplifier Marantz has ever made. Model 10 is built around a newly designed dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology and uses a completely new copper-plated, triple-layered chassis with a compartmentalized design structure designed to provide complete engineering separation of each critical internal function. Two internal compartments plus strategically placed shields isolate high and low power circuits from each other and prevent internal interference from limiting performance.

The Model 10 powerplant is newly engineered. In partnership with Purifi, Marantz developed a new amplifier, two of which are used to achieve dual-mono operation. It operates as a fully balanced amplifier from input to output, with individual power supplies for each amplifier channel and all line-level input circuitry powered by a separate linear power supply unit. Distortion is astonishingly low - 0.05% THD across the entire audio band at full power and an order of magnitude better at half-rated power - while up to 30A of peak current means exceptional dynamic range, plus frequency response that is immune to load impedance.

Driving the novel amplifier section is an all-new preamplifier design based around the latest generation of Marantz's HDAM analogue circuitry. Designed to deliver the optimum combination of speed of response and transparency of signal, HDAM is a proprietary Marantz technology first introduced in the PM-99SE amplifier of 1992. The latest incarnation is the highest performing yet, ensuring the Model 10 has all the musicality for which Marantz amplifiers are rightly renowned.

Of course, as a reference-class integrated amplifier, Model 10 has a commensurately substantial power output, with 250W into 8 ohm speaker loads, rising to 500W with 4 ohm designs. If even more power is required, owners can opt to add a second Model 10 to create a superlative biamplified stereo system using Marantz's proprietary F.C.B.S (Floating Control Bus System) to link and control two amplifiers seamlessly. Up to four Model 10s can be connected together if needed.

Even the smallest details of Model 10's design have been engineered with the utmost care and attention. Its porthole-style OLED display screen references the form of classic Marantz products of the past yet its thoroughly contemporary specification can switch from displaying volume level to selected input to a VU Meter mode, if desired. Brightness and display timeout options can also be adjusted. For those that prefer tactile interaction with their hi-fi, the Model 10 features CNC machined spun-finished aluminum control knobs for volume and input selection, each with individual bearings for a smooth feel. Even the remote handset is unique to Model 10, featuring a teal-colored aluminum top surface for added heft and premium feel.

Internal detailing is every bit as quality-focused. Model 10's exquisite design features a unique mesh-covered grille section rippled with Marantz's iconic rhythmic design pattern and illuminated from within. The result is an amplifier like no other, one ready to invite the listener in with the warmth of both its design and its musical sound. The end result, in terms of attention to detail and clarity of layout, is every bit as exquisite as it sounds.

This distinct top section is complemented by lavish componentry elsewhere in the construction of Model 10. Its solid aluminum side panels are almost 16mm thick, providing an ultra-low-resonance structure. At the front of the amplifier, the special hairline finish on the extruded aluminum control surface is perfectly complemented by discreet LED lighting embedded around the assembly complete with 20 steps of adjustment over its levels of illumination.

Model 10 includes an extensive array of analogue inputs, including two XLR balanced ins, three RCA analogue ins and a high-quality phono stage, complete with both MM and three impedance options for broad MC compatibility. Preamplifier outputs are also provided, again in both XLR and RCA. Uniquely, Model 10 can also be configured to run solely as a power amplifier, bypassing its internal preamplifier, when partnered with its sibling in the new 10 Series Collection, the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player. Naturally, selectable speaker A/B outputs are also included, alongside a very high-quality headphone output.

Shortly after Model 10 launches, it will be joined by first the SACD 10, a statement-quality SACD player built to the same exacting standards as its amplifier sibling, and then the Link 10n Reference Network Audio Player. At the heart of Link 10n is HEOS - a powerful and versatile digital audio engine that equips this reference model with an unusually comprehensive feature complement. Discerning listeners can stream high resolution from Tidal at up to the highest provided resolution of 192 kHz/24 bit. Music stored locally on USB or network servers can be played back at up to 384 kHz/32 bit and DSD 4X bit-perfect with no down sampling or conversion. An ever-growing list of other services and technologies are supported as well including AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Bluetooth, TuneIn, Deezer, Pandora and more meaning HEOS makes it simple to find what you love to listen to. Further, Link 10n can play with up to 32 other HEOS Built-In devices including home theater and stereo electronics, powered speakers, and sound bars in a home to create a diverse and entertaining whole-home audio system in which devices can be grouped to stream your favorite playlist in sync, or played separately. Introducing the first product in the new 10 Series Collection, the Model 10 integrated amplifier will be available soon from selected retailers at $15,000. Info and photos by Marantz.

Triangle Electroacoustique is one of the oldest French loudspeaker manufacturers. Although the latest anniversary models, still available for sale, were introduced on the occasion of the company's fortieth birthday, at this point we are already halfway to another round anniversary (Renaud de Vergnette founded Triangle in 1980). We all know the story - the music lover and hi-fi equipment enthusiast thought that the speakers available on the market didn't perform as well as they could, so he set himself the goal of creating speakers delivering a clean, dynamic, and natural sound. Many audiophiles can also point out several elements characteristic of the brand's sets. Paper midrange drivers, horn tweeters, high efficiency, an interesting anti-vibration system with a large spike, and extravagant finishes. I can list these features from memory after reviewing the Comète 40th Anniversary Edition, Magellan Cello 40th, Borea Active BR02 BT or the Capella wireless monitors. However, no single product will tell us about the company's history, philosophy, and plans, so I decided to talk to Elodie Deveau, Triangle's Sales Manager.

In Norse mythology, Thor is known as the god of thunder, lightning, marriage, vitality, agriculture, and the home hearth. He was said to be more sympathetic to humans than his father, Odin, though equally violent. He traveled in a chariot harnessed to goats, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr. Furthermore, he was usually depicted as a mighty man with a red beard and three key attributes - a belt doubling his power, iron gauntlets, and a great battle hammer called Mjolnir (Mjølner). Whenever Thor hurled his hammer, it would unfailingly come back to him, crushing the target of his master's attack ("Mjøl" in modern Norwegian literally means "flour" or "powder," so "Mjølner" can be understood as "a tool for grinding to powder"). The impact of this unusual weapon was to be accompanied by lightning. How valuable this hammer was to Thor can be seen in the song telling the story of what he went to when a giant named Thrym stole Mjolnir, demanding the hand of the goddess Freya for its return. According to this legend, Thor, at the instigation of Heimdall, the guardian of Asgard, was to disguise himself as Freya, shielding himself with a veil. Thinking that the plan had succeeded, Thrym and his companions held a wedding, during which the rightful owner of Mjolnir seems to have forgotten his mission for a while and got carried away by his emotions. He ate eight salmon and an ox, which caused concern among the giants, but Loki explained the phenomenon by saying that the "bride" had not eaten for a week in anticipation of her nuptials with Thrym. At the end of the feast, when, according to tradition, Mjolnir was laid in the bosom of "Freya" to seal the marriage, Thor grabbed his hammer and slaughtered the giants. Not surprisingly, Mjolnir became the most popular symbol used by Scandinavians not only in the Middle Ages but even today, if only in coats of arms and emblems. And what does this have to do with the H600? Let me explain...

Sonus Faber announced the launch of Suprema, a groundbreaking loudspeaker system rooted in luxury, unparalleled audio excellence and meticulous craftsmanship. Marking the brand's 40th anniversary, the Suprema system, featuring two main columns, two subwoofers and one electronic crossover, represents the future of the iconic audio brand and Sonus Faber's dedication to pushing the boundaries of audio excellence.

If the mainstream media is to be believed, our world is collapsing piece by piece. Paradoxically, with the end of times fast approaching, the market for luxury goods has strengthened, and this includes stereo equipment. Manufacturers of electronic components and loudspeakers are introducing bigger, more powerful versions of flagship models, which just a few years ago they described as their opus magnum, a benchmark that cannot be surpassed. Stereo systems presented at the biggest exhibitions are becoming more expensive every year. The top-of-the-line Tellurium Q cables are a prime example of this. When their second version went on sale about six months ago, I was unable to review them, as they were already scheduled for a "tour", which could not be completed, because every so often the Statement IIs found a new owner. The distributor ordered two more sets, one of which went from dealer to dealer, and the other was sold almost immediately. More sets had to be brought in, and finally, I managed to snatch up an interconnect and speaker cable worth just over €16,500.

Some years ago Hegel had to discontinue the highly capable Mohican CD player because key components were no longer being produced. Since then, the company has been working on a replacement that would be even better. The result is Viking - the best CD player Hegel has ever made. In a world full of options for downloading music, sound formats, compression methods, and streaming services, putting on some music can feel overwhelming. What should be easy and enjoyable, suddenly becomes complex and stressful. Playing a CD on the Viking is not. It is only joy. Viking is a true native 16/44.1 CD player developed from the ground up for optimal performance on standard (Redbook) CDs. It is designed to deliver the most faithful sound reproduction possible by optimizing its components to deliver a high-quality output that is true to the original recording.

Joining the 200 Series launched earlier this year, the New Classic 300 Series elements combine perfectly to create a truly bespoke, high-quality system. Featuring cutting-edge innovation, sleek style and Designed and developed by Naim engineers in exceptional sound quality, the 300 Series products England, the New Classic products are at the forefront of innovation and technology, dedicated to the pursuit of incredible sound.

The amplifier is the interface between your signal sources and loudspeakers - whatever is lost at this point is lost forever and conversely, whatever is introduced is also amplified. Amplifiers are also products for everyday use. Some successfully deviate from the conventional, they remind us of the virtue of striving for excellence through original thinking and a desire to push beyond ‘adequate’ to acheive the exceptional. There is a distinctive mood of luxurious puritanism to be found in the appearance of most Copland amplifiers. However, with the CTA407 tube amplifier we have augmented this simplicity, introducing an intelligent complement of electronics to support the audio stages of the amplifier.