Quad added a one-box hi-fi system to the Artera Series, company's primary solid-state component range. The Artera Solus combines a CD transport, DAC, preamplifier and power amplifier in a single compact chassis, with extensive connectivity options including Bluetooth wireless streaming.
Parasound introduces a new, more affordable phono stage preamplifier for a new generation of analog LP and turntable enthusiasts. The Halo JC 3 Junior reflects the company's latest collaboration with the legendary Vendetta designer, John Curl, and circuit-board wizard, Carl Thompson. The new model is about half the price of the company's $2,995 premium dual-mono Halo JC 3+, widely acknowledged as one of the world's best phono stage preamplifiers.
Cyrus announced the ONElinear - a premium loudspeaker system, which, whilst designed to perfectly augment the Cyrus One amplifier system, provides exemplary performance with a whole host of audio systems.
Schiit Audio announced the introduction of its third-generation Lyr headphone amp/preamp. Lyr 3 is using Schiit's new Coherence hybrid single-tube/solid state architecture, new Continuity constant-transconductance output stage, the same modular design as Jotunheim. The company also announced the availability of a Multibit DAC card for the Jotunheim and Lyr 3, creating the first all-in-one Multibit DAC/ balanced headamp and preamp.
Focal is confirming its position as an innovative manufacturer of hi-end headphones with the launch of Clear. Benefiting from the research and development that went into developing the Elear and Utopia headphones, the Clear sets the benchmark for open-back headphones.
Western Electric announced that the WE 300B electron tube will re-enter production this year, in time for its 80th Anniversary. The famous triode was developed at Bell Labs in 1933 in the form of its predecessor, the 300A, which was modified, patented, and then produced at many historic works facilities beginning in 1938. The 300B has journeyed from the original New York tube shops to the legendary Hawthorne Works, Allentown Works, Kansas City Works, then the Huntsville Works.
Technics announces two new additions to its Reference Class Audio line-up. Technics SP-10R and Technics SL-1000R continue the legacy of outstanding vinyl performance. Renowned for its direct drive technology and superior performance, the Technics range has extended its Reference Class line-up of audio components with its newest direct drive turntable and turntable system, the SP10-R, and SL-1000R.
Luxman just released a new flagship class AB integrated amplifier, the L-509X offering the performance of separate amplifiers/pre-amplifier housed in a single chassis. The L-509X is perfect for the discerning audiophile who seeks a high quality, high power multifunctional but simple system. The unit features a newly designed highly specialized chassis. The L-509X delivers not only in terms of extraordinary sonic characteristics but also with top-tier design and second-to-none build quality.
Sennheiser is redefining the limits of audiophile sound - with the new HD 820 which will first be showcased at CES. The closed-back dynamic stereo headphones deliver astonishingly transparent sound, thanks to a unique glass transducer cover that minimizes resonances - an innovation that ensures an incredibly realistic and natural sound field.
Harman International is showcasing the Mark Levinson the No 585.5 Integrated Amplifier with Pure Phono module. The No 585.5 is the second integrated amplifier in the Mark Levinson 500 series range - an upgrade to the award-winning No 585 which adds the brand's Pure Phono capability and other new features while retaining the existing Precision Link DAC and analog inputs. In addition to the Pure Phono module, the No 585.5 also includes an upgraded remote control and new three-piece extruded, machined, and anodized aluminum top cover which replaces the current single-piece top cover of the original No 585 and matches the appearance of all other Mark Levinson 500 Series products.