Under the Bridge welcomes Andy McKee, one of the world’s finest and most technically gifted acoustic guitarists, whose playing touches upon bluegrass, progressive rock, and classical music. More »
Poignant, dreamlike, beautiful: The Last Dinosaur’s The Nothing is a record to swim in. The brainchild of Londoner Jamie Cameron, it’s an album that addresses a tragic event from his teenage years, and transmutes that experience into a cathartic work of art. More »
London’s headroom show (Jan 29/30th) is to launch the new Audiolab M-DAC+ and Quad VA-One amplifier!
Audiolab’s highly anticipated M-DAC+ (£799.95) enhances the performance of the original M-DAC to include 32-bit/384kHz resolution for the USB input. The M-DAC+ can also link directly to Apple devices to access stored music via USB-A. DSD audio is also catered for with the M-DAC+ offering four different DSD and seven different PCM filters. Further features include redefined circuitry, with a new internal power supply.
The new VA-One integrated amplifier from Quad (£1,399.95) follows founder Peter Walker’s approach to sound quality, using carefully selected hi-fi amplifier valves to drive life-like excitement into music. It includes both analogue and digital inputs, with RCA, optical and coaxial options, plus a 6.3mm headphone jack output on the front panel. Its USB-B and Bluetooth inputs (aptX) enable simple connectivity to PCs, tablets and smartphones.
Cary Audio, based in North Carolina has announced today the new DMS-500 Digital Music Streamer.
“The DMS-500 Digital Music Streamer is a groundbreaking design that not only meets the Hi-Fidelity demands of today, but also the future” the company say and whilst it’s hard to call something future proof this unit will stream native PCM up to 32 bit 384 kHz, and DSD 64, 128, 256, 512.
The DMS-500 allows streaming any files from any MAC or PC computer(s), NAS drives, and Internet Music Services. To go one step further, directly connecting USB hard drives, thumb drives, or SD Cards allows for “computer-less” playback of digital music. 
TruBit™ PCM and DSD technology converts PCM to DSD 64, 128, 256, or up to 768 kHz in PCM
There is a 5” full colour HD to allow you to see artwork and all pertinent track information. 
Additional features include built in Tidal, Spotify, aptX® lossless fi™ Bluetooth, legacy inputs of Coaxial (x2), Optical (x1), AES/EBU (x1), Coaxial and Optical outputs, RCA and XLR fully balanced outputs, OSO™ Re-clocking, and a full 3 volt variable volume control.
Weight: 23.5 lbs.
Dimensions: 3.75″ H x 17.25″ W x 16.25 ” D
DMS-500 Retail Price: $4,995
The DMS-500 is now shipping.
Air Audio are distributing this Japanese company’s new range of cartridges in the UK and Ian Ringstead takes the first UK look at the high output and low output moving coil cartridges that cost £447 and both use a Shibata stylus.
“What immediately impressed me with both cartridges was the very low surface noise and how quiet they were overall. There was no hum even with the level turned well up and this made for an easy listen where the music was highlighted without being drowned out with irritating surface noise.”
SOtM today announced the worldwide release of the sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition, “the world’s first” Windows OS based server, which combines with AudiophileOptimizer and ROON.
The company’s press release says that “The sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition raises the bar for the highest sound quality and also with very convenient usage. The standard unit comes with RoonServer based on fully licensed Windows Server 2012 R2 (Essentials Edition) as well as AudiophileOptimizer and such features tell you everything”.
Key features
- Windows Server 2012 R2 with AudiophileOptimizer pre-installed, licensed and configured
- Only selected high quality audio grade Windows OS hardware
- Roonserver for multi zone internet streaming audio system
- Various audio player application support
- Video playback support
- Windows 8.1 with Fidelizer pre-installed, licensed and configured
Pricing and Availability
- The sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition with AudiophileOptimizer is available Pricing starts at US$3500.
- The unit is available in two colors, silver or black, and three different hardware variants: USB, Analog and Digital
The USB version comes with the tX-USBexp based USB output.
The digital version comes with AES/EBU, Coaxial and Optical based tX-USBexp USB output.
The analogue version comes with balanced and unbalanced outputs based tX-USBexp USB output.
- The internal storage device can be chosen up to 2TB SSD or 4TB HDD besides the originated 32GB SSD installed.
- The Ultra Low Noise Clock upgrade is available as
Atlas Cables has launched its totally new range of high-performance replacement headphone cables – Zeno. Designed to be light, compliant yet durable, Zeno combines Atlas Cables’ cable technology with a new range of dedicated solder-free connectivity options called Metik. The result is a replacement cable that can work across a broad range of headphones. Hand-built in Scotland and available now, prices range from £145.00.
With the Zeno headphone cable, Atlas Cables set out to bring its own engineered vision of cable design to the fastest growing category of audio products. Ohno Continuous Cast (OCC) copper conductors are covered in FEP (Fluorinated ethylene propylene) low temperature deposition dielectric to protect the integrity of the OCC material. Wrapped within a protective soft PVC inner liner and finished with a tangle-free fabric outer jacket, Zeno is extremely durable.
Developed specifically for Zeno and covering a wealth of headphone connection options, Atlas’ Metik non-solder crimp plugs provide signal consistency from socket to socket. Available in 2.5mm, 3.5mm, 6.3mm and 4-pin XLR mini for the headphone end and 3.5mm, 6.3mm and 4-pin XLR for the amplifier end, Metik plugs provide a direct, airtight metal to metal contact. For brand-specific headphone connections, a wealth of options are available – Sennheiser, OPPO, Sure, AKG, Audeze, AudioQuest, HiFiMan, Ultrasone are all catered for and Atlas is able to source the correct connections for the majority of headphones available.
Commenting on the launch of Zeno, Kevin Kelly, Managing Director at Atlas Cables, said, “With the popularity of high-end headphones set to increase and the owners looking to further refine the quality of their purchase, we felt we could add real benefits in increased sound quality and durability. By applying our trusted scientific and engineering process to this new product category, we firmly believe that Zeno gives listeners the opportunity to gain even more from their headphones with the results speaking for themselves.”
Atlas Zeno 1:1 (standard termination – stereo cable 3.5mm )
1.50m £ 145.00
2.00m £ 155.00
2.50m £ 165.00
3.00m £ 175.00
3.50m £ 185.00
4.00m £ 195.00
Atlas Zeno 1:2 (standard termination)
1.50m £ 215.00
2.00m £ 225.00
2.50 m £ 235.00
3.00m £ 245.00
3.50m £ 255.00
4.00m £ 265.00
Atlas Zeno 1:2 (custom termination) = Atlas Zeno 1:2 (standard termination) + £50 (available on request)
* Custom lengths available upon request
Austria-based Horch House was created for the sole purpose of bringing original analogue master tapes to music lovers in a variety of formats – from reel-to-reel tape to various high-resolution digital formats, all fully licensedand approved. And the latest releases include some highly collectable classics:
Star Wars Original Soundtracks, Episodes 4, 5 & 6
A New Hope / The Empire Strikes Back / Return Of The Jedi
The most acclaimed and enduring film music in Hollywood history, composed by legendary five-times Oscar-winning composer John Williams and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra. These unique collector sets are being released to coincide with the latest chapter in the saga, The Force Awakens. This is the first time the Star Wars original soundtracks have been available on reel-to-reel analogue master tapes, and with no digital remastering.
Carmina Burana by Carl Orff
Recorded in 1974, this traditional arrangement performed by the Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra and Choir delivers the distinctive ‘Orff sound’ in its full, uncompressed glory. Conductor Herbert Kegel is considered one of the best in contemporary music; Orff himself was an ardent admirer of his work.
The Planets by Gustav Holst
Performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and conducted by William Steinberg, this is one of the most highly regarded performances of The Planets, often considered the definitive version. Holst was introduced to astrology by writer Clifford Bax while holidaying in Majorca with a group of English artists; he became a devotee of the subject and liked to cast his friends’ horoscopes for fun.
The Reiner Sound: Ravel/Rachmaninoff
A giant of the classic RCA Living Stereo series featuring the unparalleled pairing of conductor Fritz Reiner with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. These ‘soft refurbished’ recordings now deliver unprecedented sound quality and showcase all the joys of RCA’s golden age: the early days of the stereo era when pure vacuum tube amplification helped produce recordings with unmatched fidelity and warmth, lifelike presence and midrange illumination. Packaging duplicates the original cover art including the Living Stereo logo, LSC numbers and Shaded Dog label.
One Second by Yello
A timeless album showcasing Yello’s spacious, beautiful pop sounds with their sensuous Latin feel – from the shaking and grooving ‘La Habanera’ and the hauntingly beautiful ‘The Rhythm Divine’, to the noisy, growling ‘Si Senor The Hairy Grill’. Released in 1987, the album also features both Billy MacKenzie and Shirley Bassey, the latter singing vocals on ‘The Rhythm Divine’.
TAGA Harmony announces the launch of the revised Azure speaker series.
The name of the series was inspired by the French Riviera.
- TLIE(Taga Low Interference Enclosure) – new elegant enclosures are now even more rigid and neutral to vibrations and colorization. The MDF walls thickness has been increased from 12mm to 15mm in the floorstanding speaker (plus 18mm thick front panel) and from 9mm to 12mm in the centre and surround speakers (plus 15mm front panel)
- The 2ndgeneration TPTTD-I (Taga Pure Titanium Tweeter Dome) utilises a differently shaped and lighter titanium cone as well as a double-magnet structure – it has a higher SPL, faster and more accurate movement of the dome
- The totally new high-performance mid and woofer drivers incorporate TDSC Taga Dynamic Surround Control, which provides stable cone movement, dynamics and precision and increased system sensitivity
- New decorative pure aluminum trim rings and tweeter faceplate to enhance sound dispersion
- New configuration of the drivers: tweeters are positioned closer to the midrange to provide even better smoothness and integration between high and mid frequencies. The woofers in the floorstanding model were moved a little up in order to change bass definition and its dispersion.
- The dramatically upgradedcrossovers to meet new refinements and configuration of the drivers: more delicate and rich treble, better defined midrange and more dynamic bass.
- Now equipped with removable grills.
Click to read the latest news and reviews from our partners over at GadgetyNews
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Pro-Ject Audio Systems announce their latest release, the 2 Xperience Acryl which will replace the Xperience 2 Pack.
The 2 Xperience Acryl boasts the same clear acrylic plinth as the 2 Pack, however, it also boasts some technical tweaks that bring it into line with Pro-Ject’s latest standards.
The perimeter belt-drive concept is based on over twenty years of turntable design experience, but the motor is a newly updated design inspired by the 2 Xperience SB, which was released in 2015. The new motor is therefore driven by a purpose-engineered AC generator PCB, which in turn is powered by an efficient DC power supply for optimal rotational and speed stability.
The 2 Xperience Acryl’s transparent acrylic plinth is acoustically inert, the thick black precision-balanced platter is also resonant-free, and topped with melted vinyl records for the ideal turntable mat. The three aluminium coned feet are TPE-damped for a further reduction of unwanted resonances.
The 2 Xperience Acryl is fitted as standard with the 9cc Evolution carbon fibre tonearm. The tonearm is then finished with the Ortofon 2M Silver moving- magnet cartridge, which boasts silver voice coils.
The package is also neatly finished with a screw-on record clamp and a sturdy dust cover.
SRP £950.00
In further news Pro-Ject announced the2 Xperience SB S-Shape that takes all the same innovations and improvements of the 2 Xperience SB design, but utilises a brand new S-Shape tonearm to give vinyl enthusiasts a more versatile record player.
The S-Shape tonearm is made of a special alloy of aluminium with very high internal damping properties, for reduced resonance. The bearing design allows for pin- point mounting of the premium vertical race bearings, while the horizontal ball bearings are rigidly mounted yet easily adjustable. The rotational anti-skate mechanism is inspired by the anti-skate system used on the flagship Signature 12 tonearm.
One of the principle benefits of the new tonearm is found in the high-quality detachable headshell.
The 2 Xperience SB turntable has a large plinth, high-quality main bearing and thick, vinyl-topped sandwich platter. The new precision motor is driven by an efficient DC power supply and regulated by a built-in electronic speed changer offering easy switching between 331/3 and 45RPM, but it also acts as an AC generator for the motor to ensure a clean and stable power signal.
An acrylic dust cover, silver screw-on record clamp and expertly engineered coned feet finish off the turntable.
SRP £1,299.00
Audeze announced the launch of its new planar magnetic headphones, the SINE recently. The company are showcasing its lightest headphone to date at Pepcom’s Digital Experience! on Jan. 5 and throughout the duration of CES 2016,Jan. 6-9, in Las Vegas.
SINE Headphones are the first of the new generation of on-ear planar magnetic headphones on the market. The lightest Audeze headphones to date, the SINE headphones are said to offer exceptional sound quality and comfort. They fold flat for portability.
The SINE headphones feature Audeze’s Fluxor® planar magnetic technology with Fazor® Elements and Uniforce® Diaphragms to provide a highly efficient yet lightweight headphone, with “very low distortion, good bass, a seductive midrange, crisp extended high frequencies, and excellent imaging”.
Audeze’s fully integrated Apple Lightning cable is also an option for the SINE headphones. The exclusive Lightning cable streams a complete 24-bit digital signal through a high quality DSP and DAC to offer better sound quality directly from the iPhone. The built in microphone can be used for phone calls or Skype and is SIRI compatible.
Keeping with the Audeze aesthetic, the SINE headphones’ transducer technology is coupled with BMW DesignWorks USA’s craftsmanship.
The SINE headphones ($499) will be available for purchase in late January at Audeze.com and select retailers and will begin shipping in February.
Audeze are in LVCC, South Hall 1 Booth 20312
Audeze products will also be featured with the following partners:
- Prism Sound, Venetian Room 29223
- Aurender, Venetian Tower Suite 29-337
- Roli, LVCC, Central Hall-Booth 14844
- Questyle, Venetian Tower Suite 28-317
- Chord Electronics, Venetian Suite 35-207
- MQA, Venetian Bassano Room 2604 / Suite 30-335
The Clarity Alliance, the UK hi-fi industry’s trade body, is pleased to announce that the 2016 industry conference will take place on Monday 1st February at Dolby Laboratories’ European Head Office, Soho Square, London.
The conference is an opportunity for members of The Clarity Alliance, plus any other individuals and companies operating in the UK hi-fi industry, to come together to discuss topics of relevance to the ever-changing market. A number of keynote guest speakers will be present to share their knowledge and enlighten the audience.
For over 3 years, Arcam’s irDAC has been regarded a great performer but now replacing the irDAC is the new irDAC-II adding advanced Bluetooth connectivity, headphone output, DSD128 support and a host of internal upgrades.
Briefed to up the ante in a competitive market, Arcam’s engineering team have blended ingredients from across Arcam’s intensive R&D programme, to deliver a major performance and function upgrade. The irDAC-II comes packed with cutting edge technology and features that will benefit the most demanding user.
– New internal circuits and a major DAC upgrade
– New audiophile headphone amplifier stage
– New Bluetooth aptX LL input
– New DSD128 support
– New ESS ES9016 Sabre DAC
£495 UK inc VAT – $799 USA + tax
Sony Electronics unveiled a new turntable which has been strategically designed to expand the company’s range of premium Hi-Res Audio products at CES 2016. The PS-HX500 is targeted for music enthusiasts who collect and enjoy LP recordings.
The HX500 has a built-in A/D converter supporting hi-res digital transfers in either native DSD (up to 5.6 MHz) or WAV files (up to 192 KHz/24-bit resolution).
“Sony is dedicated to providing audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike with a wide range of hi-res audio solutions that can meet virtually every lifestyle need”, said Yamato (Tank) Tanikawa, Director, Home Entertainment & Sound, Sony Electronics. “Our new PS-HX500 turntable serves as an important bridge that connects the growing number of vinyl record collectors to the convenience and sound quality afforded by hi-res audio”.
The HX500 comes with a newly developed app with exclusive software that allows simple and intuitive editing on either PCs or Macs. Users can conveniently combine tracks from both sides of an album or multiple tracks can be split and saved. A special driver is also provided for recording compatible DSD streams.
A new Sony developed straight tone arm that has an integrated lightweight, low resonance integrated head shell and comes complete with moving magnet cartridge is included.
A two speed belt drive system is also used which includes an aluminium die cast platter and thick (5mm) rubber mat to help stabilize disc rotation and minimize vibration. There is also a built in phonostage.
In 2014 Nagra introduced their HD DAC and at CES 2016 they have now launched their Classic DAC, a digital to analogue converter that uses the same input and conversion modules as the older DAC and allows for DSD2x and DXD (384kHz/32-bits).
The Classic DAC comes with its own onboard power supply with 25 internal power supplies and with the option of adding the off-board MPS power supply should users prefer.
You get two SPDIF inputs, AES/EBU, TOSLINK, and Nagra digital inputs plus a USB input whilst both XLR and RCA outputs are provided.
The Class DAC from Nagra continues the l known aesthetic of their Classic line of products.
Manley Labs has unveiled the company’s latest product for the Hifi market at CES 2016, The Manley Headphone Amplifier which they say has been built to meet the demand of audiophiles turning to personal headphone listening. 
Information from Manley’s website says “There are twelve independent controls designed for maximum performance and customizable handling of sonic adjustments for a wide variety of audio experience. Of special import are the custom hand-wound air-gapped dual-mode MANLEY IRONⓇ output transformers, designed and manufactured at the Manley Labs factory in Chino, California. With a push of the button, these transformers are easily user-configured to drive three ranges of headphone loads, from 12 to 600 Ohms or greater”.
The output stage of the Manley Headphone Amplifier can be switched on-the-fly between all-triode Push-Pull and Single-Ended topology.
The Volume Control is performed by a Precision Stepped Relay ladder matrix whilst left-right Balance control is provided to trim out uneven recordings. The Manley Headphone Amplifier operates fully symmetrically, enabling it to drive balanced headphones through its XLR outputs but of course non-balanced ¼” jacks are also present. A direct preamplifier output which routes your first line input through the system to feed an external power amplifier or powered loudspeakers is also available when the headphone amp is powered down.
The Manley Headphone Amplifier also, and somewhat unusually in this day and age, incorporates bass and treble tone control to allow listeners to adjust the flavour of the sound to their preference… but you can totally bypass of the EQ circuits also.
The Manley Headphone Amplifier is available in three different colours fu: Champagne & White, Titanium & Bronze, or Copper & Black.
Details
- Vacuum Tube design, 2 x 12AT7A Drivers, 4 x 6AQ5 Triode Strapped output tubes
- Single-Ended or Push-Pull amplifier operation
- Precision Stepped Relay Volume Control with Thumb Wheel
- Selectable headphone load settings: 12-50 Ohms, 50-200 Ohms, 200-600 Ohms
- Variable Feedback Control: 0–10dB of negative feedback
- Balance, Treble and Bass Controls use silent conductive plastic potentiometers
- Tone Bypass for purist signal path
- All switching via high-grade gold-contact relays
- 3 x Stereo Outputs: Balanced XLR headphone outs, Unbalanced standard ¼” TRS headphone jack, RCA Preamplifier Outputs
- 2 x Analog line-level RCA inputs
- Mono / Stereo function
- Mute Switch
- User adjustable Headphone Overload Protection System
- MANLEY IRONⓇhand-wound wide bandwidth air-gapped output transformers
- Preamplifier Direct output routes Input 1 direct to output when unit is in standby
- Soft Start, mute-controlled power-up sequence
- High Speed, Low Impedance, Low Noise custom switching PSU
- Operating Mains Voltage: 90~250VAC universal works worldwide
- Mains Voltage Frequency: 50~ 60Hz
- Solid Aluminum Billet Chassis
- Real Wood Walnut Burl Trim
- Maximum Output Power: 1W
- Unit Dimensions: 11.5 x 5.5 x 8.2” (LxWxH)
- Unit Weight: 12 lbs.
- MSRP: $2950
The microLight is the smallest ever Keith Monks RCM and is the smallest precision record cleaning machine ever.
The cliché of a picture is worth a thousand words is so apt for the microLight, and in fact pictures don’t really capture its interesting and innovative design. Is it modern, post modern or classic?
Keith Monks is working with a growing number of fine artists and photographersfrom their Isle of Wight UK and US bases, together with a specialist print company, to develop a unique layered acrylic printing process and create exclusive limited editions and one-off custom print options.
Keith Monks machines bring the original record cleaning technique developed with and so prized by the BBC, the US Library of Congress and the British Library National Sound Archive in a modern, easier and more affordable package. Jonathan Monks – The Record Doctor and son of Keith – will be demonstrating the new microLight at CES 2015 in Suite 29-139 of the Venetian Hotel.
Key Features
- Now a stunning illuminated art display for your home.
- The world’s smallest ever precision Record Cleaning Machine – just 15” (39cm) wide.
- It’s quiet enough to enjoy listening to your records while cleaning another.
- Backlit acrylic art panels – unique hi res printing process – exclusive limited editions and one-off custom print options.
- Zero recontamination for safe, consistent results
- Original point suction vacuum system with SuperSilent medical grade suction pump imported from Germany
- NEW forward-reverse turntable rotation for wash cycle
- NEW “Used fluid jar full” warning light
- NEW transparent acrylic casing and back lighting strip with diffuser displays your art
- Automatic reel-out of nozzle buffer thread
- Automatic shut off at end of side
- Supplied with Keith Monks discOvery precision 12” LP wash brush and Pyr/\Mat stay-clean mat
Today Naim launched Mu-so Qb at CES 2016 (Suite 30-233 Venetian Hotel Las Vegas) a more compact wireless loudspeaker system. Naim’s origina Mu-so wireless music system combined Naim’s normal priorities of sound quality with dramatic but understated design and ease of use. Mu-so Qb takes these attributes and delivers them in a compact structure that is easy to accommodate in most rooms.
“With Mu-so Qb, we use the same principles that helped form the original Mu-so: no compromise on materials, sound quality or features.” says Naim Audio’s Technical Director, Roy George.
Mu-so Qb will be on demo and on sale in shops early March 2016, MSRP £595 Inc. VAT. ($999.95 ex. tax)
One of the biggest design challenges with the Mu-so Qb wireless loudspeaker system was to configure the individual speakers within the smaller cabinet. It presents an arrangement of five drivers, offset and angled perfectly to create an ideal left-right dispersion. Mu-so Qb uses tweeters with microfibre domes, while its mid-range drivers have rare earth magnets and copper capped poles for even greater linearity. And when it comes to low frequencies, Mu-so Qb has another surprising design feature. Unlike the original Mu-so, there isn’t the space for a long bass port. Instead, two tuned pistonic bass-radiators work alongside a custom-made woofer that’s driven by a 100W amplifier. The touchscreen interface on the top of Mu-so Qb is a solid aluminium ring, illuminated to float above the core structure and compliment the seamless volume dial movement. 
Streaming
Connect the Naim Mu-so Qb to a home Wi-Fi network to open up a world of music. Wirelessly stream downloaded music in high-resolution via UPnP™ or browse and play millions of songs through Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Internet Radio or Airplay. 
Connectivity
Mu-so Qb also features high quality Bluetooth (aptX) connectivity, a USB input for playback from USB sticks or connection of smartphones, tablets or MP3 players enabling charging and playback, in addition a rear 3.5mm analogue input and a digital input can be used for TVs, CD players, turntables set-top boxes and games consoles.
Multiroom
Mu-so Qb can be used between five rooms in the home, creating a system that is truly integrated and offers synchonised music in each room or individual music in each room, all controlled by a dedicated Naim app for iOS and Android. Mu-so Qb is also fully compatible with Naim streaming products, including Naim Uniti Series.
At the heart of Mu-so Qb is a 32-bit digital signal processor – the same component used in the original Mu-so system. The DSP controls the flow of music information to each individual drive unit and, with intricate computer analytics, was finely tuned to perform perfectly within the smaller cabinet space.
The material chosen for the main cabinet is a 20% glass-reinforced polymer chosen for its extra stiffness and dampening properties. Elsewhere, an anodised aluminium structural top and heatsink is used, as well as the acrylic base, all of which dampen unwanted vibration, stiffen and strengthen the structure of Mu-so Qb even further.
| Audio Inputs | |
| Streaming | UPnP hi-res streaming, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Bluetooth aptX |
| Digital | Optical S/PDIF (up to 96kHz) on rear panel |
| Multiroom | Sync up to five Naim Mu-so, Mu-so Qb or any Naim Uniti or Naim Streaming product. Control via Naim App. |
| Analogue | 3.5mm jack on rear panel |
| Other | Internet radioUSB Type-A on rear panel |
| Power | |
| Amplification | 300W (4 x 50W + 1 x 100W) |
| Drivers | 1 x woofer2 x mid-range
2 x tweeter 2 x tuned pistonic bass-radiators |
| Formats | |
| Audio formats supported | WAV, FLAC and AIFF – up to 24bit/192kHz ALAC (Apple Lossless) – up to 24bit/96kHz MP3 – up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16 bit) AAC – up to 48kHz, 320kbit (16bit) OGG and WMA – up to 48kHz (16bit) When product is wireless: up to 48kHz on all file formats. |
| Gapless formats supported | WAV, FLAC and AIFF – up to 24bit/192kHz ALAC (Apple Lossless) – up to 24bit/96kHzInternet radio service provider: vTuner premium Bluetooth: SBC, AAC and aptX |
| Network Connection | |
| Inputs | Wired Ethernet (10/100Mbps) or Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) |
| Physical | |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 210mm x 218mm x 212mm |
| Weight | 5.6kg |
Edifier got in touch with Hifi Pig to tell us they are proud to announce their partnership with THX. Founded by George Lucas 30 years ago and recognized by audiences around the globe, THX is synonymous with the certification of world-class cinemas and recording studios, premium audio systems for home and automotive applications along with high definition and 4K displays. Edifier’s first THX Certified product is to be unveiled to the public for the first time at CES.
“It’s interesting to note that there isn’t any one body or authority on audio that holds the music or audio industry accountable for quality of output against an industry qualified standard. Working with THX is a real privilege for Edifier and a credible partnership between two brands that care very much about the nth degree of audio output and performance when delivered to an audience. It Is our intention to continue to work with THX to produce speakers for home entertainment accredited by THX.” – Philip Liu, VP of Edifier North America.
STAX
High-end electrostatic headphone brand, STAX will also be showcased on the stand for the first time at CES. Since acquiring the brand in 2012 Edifier has continued to enhance the STAX product and brand awareness at every level.
Products on display include the SR Lambda Series – SR-L700 and SR-L500, the Top-of-the-Line electrostatic earspeaker SR-009 the flagship model SR-007 and the advanced in-the-earspeaker system SRS-002. Each headphone features a top quality sound element for rich deep bass-response, delicate high-frequency and soothing mid-range realized in a balanced manner.
STAX amplifiers will also be on display at the Edifier stand. These include the Driver units SRM-007tII and SRM-727II. When the amplifiers are used with STAX electrostatic earspeakers they deliver a high level of sound purity and quality. The amplifiers open up new vistas for sense of mass and textural expression supported by a virtually unparalleled degree of resolution, natural sense of openness and a powerful power section.
New Edifier Products
Two new wireless Edifier speakers will unveiled to the public for the first time at CES. The speakers represent a new direction that Edifier is taking away from traditional multimedia speakers towards new technologies.
“Wireless is the natural progression to which we have developed our product lines. Everybody is connected, wants ease of use in the simplest format with the latest capabilities. The time is now where we have to move away from traditional multimedia product developments and look toward creating new categories for Edifier including wireless and maybe multiroom systems. We have begun to move towards that with our Bluetooth range of speakers and at CES, our showcase of wireless speakers will mark a new chapter for us.” – Wendong Zhang, CEO, Edifier International Ltd
Edifier Ambassador Platform
2016 will see the launch of the Edifier Ambassador platform. This platform will enable popular musicians, bloggers, TV personalities, gamers and sports people to share their experiences of Edifier with their fans. They’ll be able to engage with their audiences through product giveaways, discounts, product exclusives and money can’t buy experiences.
The award winning Music First Audio Classic pre amplifier has now sold 500 units since its introduction in 2003. To celebrate this achievement a new version of the classic unit is being made available in a fabulous new range of colours.
The Baby Classic Pre Amplifier
The Baby Classic pre amplifier, using the Classic transformer, is a 2 input and output pre amp with a 24 position switch volume switch and 3 position ground lift switch. The back panel is built to the customer’s specification. Both RCA and XLR inputs are available in any combination.
£1200.00, plus VAT if applicable.
McIntosh has introduced three new products at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2016): the MX122 A/V Processor, MB50 Streaming Audio Player and RS100 Wireless Loudspeaker.
MX122 A/V Processor
The MX122 A/V Processor can serve as the brain centre for an advanced home theater system for years to come. It features many of the latest breakthroughs in surround sound and object-based 3D audio such as Dolby® Atmos, and will be upgradeable to support DTS:X™ and Auro-3D®. Besides 3D audio, existing formats like Dolby
TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio™ and others are still supported. The MX122 is fully compatible with modern 4K Ultra HD video sources and can upscale lower resolutions to 4K Ultra HD. A wide assortment of inputs and outputs are included to connect current and future entertainment sources. All HDMI inputs and outputs are HDCP 2.2 and support High Dynamic Range (HDR), 4K Ultra HD at 50/60Hz, 4:4:4 color, Rec. 2020 and 3D video pass-through. The MX122 can send select audio and/or video to 2 additional zones within in the house. Users can connect to their online digital music with either the wired or wireless network connections. DSD64 files can be played from flash drives or over the network. Bluetooth and AirPlay® connectivity allows for easy streaming from mobile devices. Interfaces to popular streaming services including Pandora®, SiriusXM® and Spotify® are included while vTuner connects to 1,000s of internet radio stations. Audyssey MultEQ® XT32 will calibrate the MX122 to each home theater’s unique acoustical properties.
MB50 Streaming Audio Player
A home audio system can be transformed into a wireless audio system with the MB50 Streaming Audio Player. The MB50 features DTS Play-Fi® technology to give the freedom and flexibility to wirelessly play music at home over an existing Wi-Fi network. While utilizing DTS Play-Fi streaming capabilities, the MB50 delivers the legendary McIntosh sound quality and performance found in our other home audio products. Simply connect the MB50 to a Wi-Fi network and audio system via the analog or digital outputs and then stream music to it from the Apple or Android mobile app or Windows desktop app. Besides accessing a personal music library on a mobile device, the apps have built-in support for many leading online streaming services including Deezer, KKBox, Pandora®, QQMusic, Rhapsody, SiriusXM®, Songza, Spotify® and TIDAL (list subject to change). If there’s more than one audio system to stream to, just add an MB50 to each and then stream the same music to all systems. Or if there are multiple mobile devices with the app, different music can simultaneously be streamed to each system.
Analog and digital inputs allow for connecting audio components such as CD players, letting the MB50 to act as a mini-preamp.
RS100 Wireless Loudspeaker
The RS100 wireless speaker allows streaming music capabilities to be added to any room. It features DTS Play-Fi® technology that gives the freedom and flexibility to wirelessly play the music on mobile devices over an existing Wi-Fi network. Simply connect it to a Wi-Fi network, install the free Play-Fi Apple or Android mobile app or Windows desktop app and then begin streaming. A single RS100 is all that is needed to start building a wireless speaker system; more can be added over time to expand the system. Up to 16 speakers can be connected to a single Wi-Fi network – enough for stereo playback in 8 separate rooms. With the Play-Fi app installed on multiple devices, each device can stream different music to each room, giving all family members or guests control over what they want to hear in their room. Besides accessing a personal music library, the apps have built-in support for many leading online streaming services including Deezer, KKBox, Pandora®, QQMusic, Rhapsody, SiriusXM®, Songza, Spotify® and TIDAL (list subject to change). Not limited to just streaming, the RS100 is flexible thanks to its auxiliary input which allows it to be used in non-streaming setups; it can quickly be switched back and forth between the two inputs to accommodate listening preferences. A subwoofer output is also included.
All three products are available to order now from authorized McIntosh dealers with shipping anticipated in January for MX122 and in March for MB50 and RS100. Suggested retail price for each (VAT, shipping and any customs duties related to current standards of individual countries are excluded):
MX122: $7,000 USD
MB50: $2,000USD
RS100: $1,000 USD per speaker
Bryston has announced today the introduction of the Cubed Series of amplifiers, replacing the Squared Series that made its debut at the 2009 CES. The SST3 amplifiers will anchor the CES 2016 demo at The Venetian Suite 29-308.
The SST3 series is a statement design platform for music enthusiasts, home theatre installations and professional audio applications. The new lineup will roll out in phases, with the 2.5B SST3, the 3B SST3, the 4BSST3, the 7BSST3, and the 14BSST3 being first to market. The flagship 28B SST3 is in the final design stages currently.
Engineering achievements are at the forefront of the new designs, featuring a patented super-linear, low noise input buffer jointly developed by Bryston and the late Ph.D. engineer Dr. Ioan Alexandru Salomie. The Cubed Series also has a more robust RF and audio frequency noise filtering circuit before the power supplies to prevent unwanted anomalies on the power line from interfering even minutely with the audio signal. And finally the new amplifiers will feature a redesigned milled aluminum front panel.
“Due to the lasting success of the Squared Series amplifiers, our engineers were afforded the luxury of being able to spend lots of time precisely developing this new line of amplifiers,” explained Bryston CEO Chris Russell. “The innovative circuitry designed with Dr. Salomie is brilliant and we plan to use more of it in future products. Some of the audible improvements we have noted during our initial testing consist of expanded spaciousness and depth of focus, better overall dimensionality, improved mid-bass clarity, and more air and openness in the high-frequencies.”
All Bryston SST3 Series amplifiers will feature Bryston’s 20-year warranty.
Leema Acoustics is demonstrating its Libra DAC/preamp at CES 2016, featuring 24-bit/384kHz playback over USB, upgradeable DAC modules, Bluetooth and more! (£5,995).
Leema Acoustics, founded and run by two ex-BBC sound engineers, will be demonstrating its new Libra DAC/preamp at CES 2016.
Leema’s new flagship DAC, which was launched in the autumn of 2015, will head-up an all- British system including Leema’s Hydra power amps with loudspeakers from Spendor.
Leema’s Lee Talyor, the ‘Lee’ in Leema Acoustics, will be in attendance throughout CES to introduce the Libra and Leema’s innovative product range. Leema Acoustics can be found in the Bluebird Music room (Venetian Tower 29-211), which will also be home to Spendor and van den Hul for the event.
The Libra is the latest addition to Leema Acoustics’ flagship Constellation series and has the same precision-machined casework as the award-winning Tucana amp and Antila CD player. Designed and built by Lee Taylor and Mallory Nicholls (Leema), Libra’s simple-yet-elegant looks conceal class-leading technologies.
The Libra DAC/preamp is priced at £5,995 and is available now.
If you’re already a fan of Gamut’s RS Series then you’re in for a treat. The new hot-off-the-press Zodiac is a further development of the pride of the RS Series, the huge RS9.
“The Zodiac is basically my dream loudspeaker,” says Benno Baun Meldgaard, Gamut’s designer, whose passion and skills are such that in Europe he has earned the nickname ‘the best ears in the business’. In fact, if you’ve ever seen Meldgaard set up and fine-tune a system, you’ll know why he’s also known affectionately as ‘the speaker whisperer’.
In 2016 Meldgaard’s dance card has been reserved for the Zodiac, into which he has poured all of his expertise built on decades of psychoacoustics research and development, including experiencing countless classical live concerts.
“This is my Mona Lisa,” he explains. “It’s me taking loudspeaker design and engineering to the ultimate, removing any and all constraints – including cost – to create a genuine masterpiece of musicality. As an audio designer and passionate lover of live music, this is the kind of project you live for”.
A true masterpiece doesn’t typically go into mass production and the Zodiac is no exception. Just 12 pairs will be handcrafted each year, one per month, and each will bear the relevant sign of the astrological zodiac. No serial numbers here, just a star sign.
The Gamut Zodiac: highlights in brief
- A true ‘cost no object’ handcrafted loudspeaker.
- Only 12 pairs to be built each year (one per month/sign of the zodiac).
- Extended frequency response of 16Hz to 60kHz.
- Phase-aligned drive units from 400Hz to 12kHz.
- All drive units have been newly custom-designed and individually matched by Meldgaard.
- Highly complex cabinet showcases a new system of internal spacing, semi-separated by bespoke acoustic filters.
- The crossover is a new innovative design featuring superlative quality components sourced from Danish experts Janzen Audio.
- Zodiac’s designer Benno Baun Meldgaard will visit each owner within 12 months of purchase to fine-tune the Zodiac set-up in the owner’s listening room.
Gamut will be demonstrating the new Zodiac in suite 29-324 at the Venetian Hotel at CES 2016, along with a number of other ‘stars’ from the Gamut range.
Gamut at CES 2016: system on display/demonstration at CES 2016
The new top-of-range Zodiac loudspeaker
M250i mono power amplifiers
D3i dual mono preamplifier
Gamut’s new Reference cables: speaker, interconnect and power
