Displaying items by tag: china - StereoLife Magazine

Matrix Audio has introduced the ND-1, a new digital-to-analogue converter in the company's N Series, conceived as a dedicated source component for advanced stereo systems and headphone-based desktop setups. Rather than treating the DAC as one function inside a wider all-in-one platform, Matrix Audio is positioning the ND-1 as a focused, purist design built around one core objective - high-performance digital decoding with a degree of tonal flexibility that remains relatively unusual in this category. Officially unveiled as part of the complete N Series line-up in March 2026, the ND-1 joins the NT-1 digital audio transport and the NA-1 headphone amplifier to form what Matrix describes as a premium desktop separates system.

FiiO is expanding its range of active desktop speakers with the SP5, a pair of nearfield monitors aimed at users looking for something more substantial than typical computer speakers. This is a product designed not only as a desk-based work tool, but also as a compact listening system for music in a domestic setting. Even the way FiiO presents the model makes it clear that this is not meant to be another basic speaker set placed next to a monitor, but an attempt to combine studio-style functionality with a sound that should appeal to demanding listeners.

FiiO has introduced the Echo, also known as the Snowsky Echo, a compact high-resolution portable music player designed as a deliberately simple alternative to smartphones for offline listening. The device reflects a broader return to dedicated music players focused on distraction-free playback, combining styling inspired by classic cassette Walkman-style devices with a modern dual-DAC audio architecture. It is aimed at listeners who want access to hi-res audio on the move without relying on streaming apps or multifunction mobile platforms.

FiiO is expanding its in-ear headphone range with the JH13, a hybrid model aimed at users who want to try a more advanced driver configuration without spending very much. According to the manufacturer, these IEMs are intended to combine technology associated with more expensive designs with straightforward usability and easy drivability from typical mobile sources. At the centre of the JH13 is a three-driver hybrid layout consisting of a 10mm dynamic driver for the low end and a pair of balanced armature drivers handling the upper registers. A specially designed crossover is meant to integrate both sections smoothly, avoiding the disjointed character that can sometimes affect entry-level hybrids and delivering a clearer, more layered presentation than a typical single dynamic driver design.

FiiO has introduced the Snowsky Disc, a portable high-resolution audio player that leans deliberately into nostalgia for classic disc-based portables while relying entirely on modern digital hardware. This compact circular player is aimed at listeners who enjoy physical interaction and the visual language of older audio gear, but do not want to give up the convenience of file playback, hi-res support and compatibility with contemporary listening systems. Its chassis is made from aluminium alloy, while the front is dominated by a round touchscreen used not only for playback control but also for album art and lyric display. During playback, the interface can simulate a spinning disc, reinforcing the visual link with traditional Discman-style devices even though the music itself comes from microSD storage or wireless streaming rather than any physical medium.

Questyle is expanding its range of portable audio devices with two new models, Sigma and Sigma Pro. The company positions them as mobile solutions intended to deliver a level of performance closer to full-size desktop systems, aimed at users who want genuine high-fidelity playback from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Both devices are built around Questyle's proprietary Current Mode Amplification, or CMA, technology, which is designed to combine very low distortion, strong dynamic performance and substantial output power within a compact form factor.

There are now two parallel trends becoming increasingly visible in the portable audio market - a renewed interest in physical media and a growing appetite for digital conversion methods associated with a more traditional, more "analog" presentation. The FiiO DM15 R2R sits squarely at the intersection of those two ideas, combining the format of a portable CD player with an advanced R2R DAC and a feature set more commonly associated with modern network players and desktop DACs. It is aimed at listeners who do not want to give up their compact disc collections, but still expect serious output power, a balanced signal path, USB DAC functionality and high-resolution wireless transmission. At its current market positioning, the DM15 R2R enters a category in which genuinely audiophile-minded portable CD players remain relatively rare.

Sendy Audio has introduced Egret, a new open-back planar magnetic headphone that pairs the company's latest nano-diaphragm technology with its familiar handcrafted wooden construction. Developed from the ground up with a focus on accuracy, refinement and long-term comfort, Egret is presented as the next step in Sendy's approach to natural, high-resolution sound, combining a large-format planar driver with modern fabrication techniques and a visually distinctive solid wood housing.

FiiO is expanding its line-up of advanced portable players with a new flagship model, the M27. The device has been designed as a portable-desktop crossover, combining the freedom of listening on the move with the performance and flexibility of a full-size desktop component. In practice the M27 can work both as a standalone player with a powerful headphone amplifier and as a high-quality digital source in an elaborate stereo system, which according to the manufacturer is intended to set a new benchmark in the high-end portable player segment.

Since 2016, Sivga has been producing a range of acclaimed hi-fi headphones with a real-wood finish, including the recently announced closed-back Oriole and Robin. Delivering a spacious soundstage with excellent separation, and a rich, warm musicality, the Sivga SV023 are an open-back design with 50mm dynamic drivers which have been specially designed and engineered by Sivga in-house.