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German company Kaiser Acoustics has introduced the Kawero Minal, a new loudspeaker system that immediately makes it clear we are dealing with a product designed without compromise. Even from its dimensions, weight, and overall architecture, it is obvious that this is not merely an expensive pair of floorstanding speakers, but a model aimed squarely at the upper High End segment.

Our new editorial rating focuses on compact speaker systems. Bookshelf speakers are advancing in sound quality by leaps and bounds, and all we can do is applaud the latest releases. From the abundance of new models, we have carefully selected eight of the most impressive speakers for every taste and budget.

Shanling has introduced the SM90 network player, a compact device designed not only for music playback over a network, but also to serve as the central hub of a home stereo system. One of the key features of the new model is its HDMI ARC input, which makes it possible to connect a TV directly to a two-channel audio setup, without the need for an AV receiver or soundbar.

Revel is preparing to premiere its new Performa4 loudspeaker lineup, which will be officially introduced at AXPONA 2026. The event will take place from April 10 to 12 at the Schaumburg Convention Center in Chicago. The new series covers a price range from 2 to 7 thousand US dollars per pair and is aimed at the segment where serious stereo systems and home theater setups are most often assembled.

Octave has announced the Jubilee Preamp SE, a new flagship preamplifier that succeeds the Jubilee model, which had been regarded as the pinnacle of the company’s range since 1998. The manufacturer emphasizes that the new model is not a cosmetic update, but a thoroughly reworked design in which the sonic section, technical architecture, feature set, and ease of operation have all been improved.

Leak Audio has expanded its famous Sandwich series with a new model – the two-way bookshelf speaker Sandwich 100. It is the most compact speaker in the family, which also includes the Sandwich 150 and Sandwich 250 models. The new release is aimed primarily at smaller listening rooms, where compact speaker dimensions are especially important without compromising sound quality.

New Zealand-based company Antipodes Audio has announced the completion of the development of the Oladra platform and, at the same time, introduced Oladra as an independent brand specializing in reference-level digital audio sources. The first products under the new brand are the Oladra Sentia and Oladra Presence. With this move, the manufacturer has effectively spun off into a separate direction an engineering concept that has been taking shape for more than ten years and is focused on how the digital chain influences the final musical result at the moment a file or digital stream is converted into an audio signal.

Bang & Olufsen has introduced two more special versions of its flagship Beolab 90 loudspeaker – the Monarch Edition and the Zenith Edition. Both new models have been released as part of the anniversary Atelier series created to mark the Danish brand’s 100th anniversary, and they complete the lineup of five limited-edition versions, which previously included Titan, Shadow, and Mirage.

Even though 2026 is still young, the integrated amplifier market has already seen a notable refresh. In our latest expert ranking, we sorted through the newest releases to find those truly worth your attention - and picked the very best among them. What's especially encouraging is how many models landed in the affordable segment - great sound is becoming more accessible.

Lake People and Manikin Electronic announce their cooperation for a series of audio tools called Pro Audio Bricks. Starting the series are 10MHz4Reference and Isolator4USB.

LAiV has launched the Crescendo VERSE, a desktop all-in-one audio component that combines a discrete R2R DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier in a single unit. The new model is aimed at listeners who want to build a modern compact system for a desk or a small room without cluttering it with a large number of separate components.

Cayin has updated its flagship HA-300 headphone amplifier, introducing the third-generation version – the Cayin HA-300 MK3. The new model retains the core features of the design: single-ended Class A circuitry, 300B tubes in the output stage and an external power supply.

Gryphon Audio Designs has announced the Helios preamplifier, built in a two-chassis configuration with a separate power supply. The new model is positioned as an entirely new development, combining reference-grade technical performance with very broad compatibility in complex audio systems.

Takumi Recordplayer has expanded its range of vinyl turntables with the introduction of the Level 1.1 model. The manufacturer positions the new product as an entry-level solution in its lineup, designed to appeal both to those just beginning their journey into vinyl and to more demanding users.

British company Ophidian has expanded its S-series with the introduction of the new SKYE floorstanding loudspeakers. The new model has been developed and is manufactured in the United Kingdom, complementing the range that previously included the SEREN standmount speaker. With this model, the manufacturer is focusing on a combination of classic styling, high-quality finishing, and modern engineering solutions.

Greek company Ideon Audio is preparing to premiere its new Axiom DAC digital-to-analog converter at AXPONA 2026, which will take place from April 10 to 12 in Chicago. The manufacturer calls this model the largest-scale and most ambitious project in its history. According to the developers, the Axiom DAC is intended to become the quintessence of Ideon Audio’s accumulated experience in digital technologies, power supply design, precision engineering, and signal control.

For the Sennheiser HD 600, HD 650, and HD 800 S to truly open a window to another world, you'll need to carefully select the right partners. We've done the work for you, analyzing dozens of amplifications and digital-to-analog conversion combinations for these headphones, and determined which source would be the optimal choice, delivering that signature impeccable dynamics and creating a wide soundstage.

Radiant Acoustics has introduced the Clarity 66, the third loudspeaker system in its lineup and the brand’s first floorstanding model. After two bookshelf speakers, the company has moved into a more serious segment with a flagship loudspeaker that, according to its developers, most fully reflects the Radiant Acoustics approach to sound.

French company Jadis Electronics has expanded its lineup with the new Aria integrated tube amplifier, which replaces the Orchestra and now takes the position of the entry-level model in the brand’s catalog. That said, it should not be seen as a budget solution: this is still a full-fledged High End component, built in keeping with Jadis traditions.

British company Quad Hifi has expanded its Platina series by introducing its third component – the Platina CDT CD transport. The model was announced earlier and has now officially reached the market. The unit does not feature a built-in digital-to-analogue converter, which is entirely logical: the DAC section is already included in the Quad Platina Integrated amplifier.