In a twist that has tails wagging and audiophiles howling, the canine world has unleashed its unparalleled auditory prowess upon the high-end audio scene. In a market saturated with human opinions, dogs have emerged as the ultimate connoisseurs of sound, fetching accolades for their unparalleled ear for detail.
Bowers & Wilkins introduces the 800 Series Signature - the ultimate version of its acclaimed 800 Series Diamond loudspeaker range. The new 801 D4 Signature further refines and advances the already reference-standard 801 D4, introducing all-new levels of insight and realism that truly put it in a class of its own. The new range also introduces the 805 D4 Signature, designed to bring category-defining levels of transparency and accuracy to a more compact loudspeaker footprint, making it the perfect choice for discerning listeners in smaller spaces. Both models feature no-holds-barred performance upgrades based on unique, proprietary Signature technologies not found in other 800 Series Diamond loudspeakers. Combined with exclusive new finishes and luxurious detailing, the two new Signature loudspeakers are a level above the best.
Launching in Copenhagen, Treble Clef Audio is deeply rooted in Danish design traditions of function and form, and the TCA-M loudspeakers are exquisitely crafted with this in mind. Sound by design consciously sculpt these loudspeakers to optimally support acoustic function at every bend of its slender visual signature. Far from conventional, but close to perfection. Pushing the boundaries of sound experiences whilst highlighting the possibilities of a beautifully elevated space, with the TCA-M loudspeaker as an integral part of the interior. The organic, elegant and slender shape of the TCA-M loudspeaker not only looks like a piece of art carved out of the most beautiful wood with metal and glass detailing, but by having no flat surfaces or edges to interfere with sound dispersion, the active loudspeaker performs with superior sound quality, bringing you closer to live musical performances, in the comfort of your own living room.
Sonus Faber is proud to announce the revival of its iconic and award-winning Homage Collection, showcased in the premiere of 4 new products. The extension of the current collection highlights Sonus Faber's deep Italian heritage, commitment to its artisans' craftsmanship, and progression of the brand's product collection, paying tribute to the musical instruments that inspired the collection's creation. The collection honors the genius of the talented creators of musical instruments and the lute making tradition with roots in Cremona, Italy.
Naim Audio launched in 1973 with a simple aim - to experience music replayed in its truest and purest possible form. That meant pushing the boundaries of what is viable, applying an obsessive attention to detail in the pursuit of musical authenticity. Half a century on, its end goal still starts with the music that moves us; an unwavering line from the first Naim products to the creation of the New Classic range: the NSC 222 streaming pre-amplifier; an allnew iteration of the iconic NAP 250 power amplifier; the NPX 300 power supply upgrade. Each boasts more features - including balanced connections - without sacrificing sound quality. Designed and engineered by specialists in England, the New Classic range is handcrafted with care and built to last. Sophisticated yet simple to use, these timeless products aim to bring you years of listening pleasure. There are also a range of ways to integrate these new products with existing Naim models.
Astell&Kern introduces its latest in-ear monitor, the AK ZERO1, featuring three different types of drivers to deliver a ground-breaking hybrid sound. Composed of a micro planar dynamic driver, dual balanced armature drivers, and a dynamic driver, this unique design combines the sonic characteristics of each driver to produce unprecedented natural audio. Astell&Kern has set new standards in IEM engineering to get the music fan closer to the original studio sound.
The Micro Rectangular Planar Dynamic Driver is a specially developed, highly advanced driver that allows a planar driver design, normally difficult to scale down for headphones, to be applied to in-ear monitors. Adopting a sturdy and lightweight planar membrane to minimize frequency loss, this is combined with a vibration panel boasting a high-polymer and thin metal film to create crystal clear and dynamic high frequencies. The AK ZERO1's driver system also features dual BA drivers, using custom-designed coils to deliver transparent vocals with super-low distortion. Couple this with the single 5.6 mm dynamic driver to ensure rich, controlled and deep low frequencies, and the AK ZERO1 is poised to deliver its pioneering hybrid sound.
To realize this new sound through the ideal frequency response, a Crossover Network design was generated based on a thorough understanding of each driver's parameters. Once established, each driver is carefully placed in the optimal position, enclosed in specifically designed acoustic chambers manufactured with 3D printing technology. These precision enclosures cleverly eliminate unnecessary movement and resonance from the drivers to ensure stable performance. Lastly, the main precision-tooled housing reduces internal and external vibrations to deliver the most focused and accurate sound possible.
To further maximize the audio performance the AK ZERO1 arrives equipped with a pure silver-coated OFC cable. Exquisitely crafted with high-purity silver plating and copper, alongside aluminum plugs, this design strives to maintain the transparency of the audio signal. Elsewhere, the MMCX connectors ensure a prime-quality connection between the ear housing and cable, offering long-lasting and stable performance. For discerning audiophiles looking to experience the highest quality audio possible from their AK ZERO1 IEMs or any other MMCX-connector compatible headphones, Astell&Kern is launching an optional 4.4mm cable. The PEP11 sports larger aluminum-machined 4.4mm plugs and features the same top-quality high-purity silver plating and copper cable.
Astell&Kern's recognizable bold diagonal design language continues on the AK ZERO1, with the premium cut metal surface brilliantly reflecting the light. The shape of the housing and the slender ear nozzles have been carefully designed and refined to not only provide a secure and comfortable fit but to deliver the sound efficiently and accurately through your ears. To further provide a snug fit, five different-sized pairs of silicone ear tips and one set of foam tips are supplied, along with a carry case to keep your IEMs pristine during transit. The Astell&Kern AK ZERO1 is priced at £649/$699/€749 and the PEP11 is priced at £119/$130/€139. Info and photos by Astell&Kern via Armour Home.
Meze Audio, a high-end audio company based in Romania, continues its collaboration with Rinaro Isodynamics for the release of the new Elite Isodynamic Hybrid Array headphone, their most advanced planar magnetic headphone to date. A blend of innovative technology and acoustic engineering with outstanding mechanical design and ergonomics, Elite is the result of 3 years of research and development which opened the path for creating a powerful, lifelike sound experience.
After six years from the introduction of the first grandiose Aida, Sonus Faber pushes the envelope and presents the new Aida, the brand's flagship speaker poised at the pinnacle of its product range. Don't let the familiar face fool you! The new Aida has been completely overhauled utilizing the most advanced electroacoustic developments, even if the outer appearance is relatively unaltered, with all its timeless class and elegance.
I guess that each of us likes making oneself a gift. Some people do it at the first opportunity, others wait for specific achievement - a promotion at work, running a marathon, passing an exam or losing weight. A new watch, family trip or just a day for small pleasures may be the prize. But can you imagine what gift would you make if your very successful company celebrated its 30th anniversary? For sure, it would be something special. Such an extraordinary occasion has been celebrated recently by Audio Physic. Did the crew open a bottle of good champagne or at least go for a beer and a schnitzel at the local tavern? I guess so, but first of all, they have done one more gift for both themselves and the loyal fans of the brand - a limited edition of their best speakers.
Fezz Audio is an example of a brand that has kicked-off fairly recently, but the onset of the launch of their very first product, it has already had a considerable baggage of accumulated experience, facilitating a strong, heads-on jump-start. From the very beginning, it seems that the manufacturer has not only embarked upon the right concept when it comes to the design of the device itself, but he has also pointedly targeted an extremely attractive price range. The tube amplifier in question, called Silver Luna, has perfectly blended into the demands of audiophiles, a product trait which we have witnessed only very rarely in recent times. From the outside - it holds the traditional looks of stereo tube amplifier, made available in a range of intriguing color schemes. From the inside - a respectable powerhouse built of components stemming from the companies in-house production. And all of this comes at a price that would, under normal conditions, restrict us solely to a product range comprised of middle-class solid state amplifiers or, possibly, to some Chinese tube amplifiers, of questionable quality at that.