Since Monitor Audio’s classic Gold series evolved to the 6G generation in 2024, I’ve had the pleasure of auditioning two models: the Gold 300 6G floorstanders and the Gold 100 6G bookshelf speakers. Both left a significant impression, demonstrating clear improvements in both technology and musical performance for the 6G generation. Next on the review…
The ARIA series represents a long-standing, mid-range product line from the French manufacturer Focal. Benefiting from years of accumulated technological advancements, this series has now evolved into the ARIA EVO X generation. The N°1, which I had the opportunity to test, is the smallest bookshelf speaker in the series. It offers consumers a straightforward way…
Stepping into Winkey Audio (HiFiReport) for this listening session felt like a case of déjà vu. However, this wasn’t a phenomenon requiring cognitive science to explain, nor was it related to time travel. It was simply because I had visited Winkey Audio in March 2022 to audition a system that was remarkably similar. On that…
Audiovector Makes a Striking Return Audiovector is a Danish loudspeaker brand that, after a few years of relative quiet, has re-emerged prominently in the market thanks to HiFiReport Audio securing its distribution. If you attended any audio shows in 2024, you were likely impressed by the Audiovector speakers displayed by HiFiReport (or their partner dealers)….
My initial encounter with the allure of Stenheim speakers took place at HiFiReport Audio’s former location on Beian Road in Dazhi. On that occasion, I listened to the Stenheim Alumine Five. Prior to this, I was completely unfamiliar with the brand, having only seen them briefly at audio shows. However, that listening session left a…
Is this Edifier? Or is it Stax? What exactly is Stax Spirit? The answer is simple: it’s Edifier, not Stax. However, the name “Stax” wasn’t simply attached without reason. Edifier began by manufacturing computer speakers. Later, they brought in Phil Jones, the former designer for Acoustic Energy, significantly advancing their speaker research and development capabilities…
Have you ever experienced planar magnetic headphones? Because the diaphragm of a planar magnetic driver is incredibly lightweight, with the voice coil printed directly onto it and driven by push-pull magnets on either side, they offer exceptional speed and low distortion. This makes them highly prized by a certain group of headphone aficionados. If you…
Recently, I visited the Ark Audio showroom and Mr. Shu was excited to show off Tiglon’s fifteenth-anniversary commemorative power cable, the TPL-3000A WT. It has an easy-to-remember name: White Tiger (WT stands for White Tiger). Some might wonder, where is the Azure Dragon? That would be the MS-DR20A, also one of the fifteenth-anniversary commemorative products….
Does the TAS review influence my listening judgment? Yes, it does. Because, from its specifications, industrial design, and build quality, the NODE ICON is impressively well-executed. Sound performance, however, remains the subjective evaluation of the audio reviewer. TAS stated that while you might find functionally similar equipment, anything significantly better sounding would easily cost two,…
Before diving into the DS Audio DS Master3 optical cartridge system, I took a moment to look back at my previous reviews. It turns out it’s been six years since I last listened to the DS-E1 optical cartridge – time certainly flies. Most vinyl enthusiasts have years of experience and insights into MM (Moving Magnet)…
Danish loudspeaker brand DALI has recently introduced the KUPID, an entry-level bookshelf speaker that upholds the brand’s long-standing sonic standards while remaining exceptionally easy to acquire and use. Its modern, stylish appearance and color palette significantly appeal to younger Hi-Fi enthusiasts, presenting a perfect opportunity to upgrade from ordinary computer speakers and bring music closer…
LALS Audio has consistently garnered attention and acclaim for its horn speaker designs and manufacturing. While market success has been steady, it has not deterred their commitment to research and development. Following the recent update of their golden compression driver, it has been progressively implemented across various models. We had the opportunity to experience the…
The Moon North Collection series has been a resounding success since its debut, with dynamic demonstrations available at numerous dealerships across Taiwan, offering consumers the chance to experience its sound firsthand. This availability is a significant advantage, allowing for auditions of various system configurations. During our visit to Dreamade Audio Technology in Sanchong, we had…
If you appreciate the precise imaging and clear soundstage that coaxial drivers deliver, you have more options beyond the classic designs from Tannoy and Fyne. Vestlyd, a burgeoning Danish brand, has focused squarely on coaxial loudspeakers from its inception. Their speakers possess a pronounced stage presence, a rarity among home audio brands. Their enclosures are…
For the first time ever, I, as the editor, eagerly snatched the chance to audition a working sample speaker. UK-based PMC, represented by Jade Electronics International, recently held a launch event for their brand-new Prophecy series, set to debut in 2025. I had the privilege of attending. On display were disassembled components: the ATL LaminairX,…
If you’re on the hunt for retro-styled audio gear, JBL currently offers a remarkably diverse range of options. Their speaker lineup includes models like the L100 Classic MK2 and L82 Classic MK2, which are modern reinterpretations of the iconic L100 Century that took the 1970s by storm. These updated versions employ contemporary technology and components…
In today’s high-fidelity landscape, a common quandary arises: how to achieve optimal audio quality from streaming content. While most users rely on their smart TVs’ built-in streaming interfaces and transmit audio via HDMI eARC, these integrated solutions, designed primarily for display, often fall short as dedicated audio sources. For enthusiasts with high-end multi-channel systems, this…
STAX’s 007 series has nearly three decades of history, a testament to the evolution of electrostatic headphone technology. Its lineage can be traced back to 1993 with the groundbreaking SR-Omega, hailed as “the closest to perfect electrostatic headphone in audio history,” marking the dawn of a new era in electrostatic technology. In 1998, the SR-007…