Articles and Reviews – page 2

Michi has expanded its Prestige series with two new components – the P430 preamplifier and the S430 stereo power amplifier. The new models sit one step below the flagship Reference range, which continues to be headed by the P5 and S5, while retaining Michi’s characteristic engineering approach, substantial construction and extensive integration options for modern audio systems.

Nelson Pass’s First Watt offers two power amplifiers built around Static Induction Transistors (SIT): the stereo SIT-4 and the monaural SIT-5. Both models operate in pure Class A without global negative feedback and use industrial Tokin THF51 transistors rated for up to 600 V, 30 A, and 400 W of power dissipation. However, their circuit designs differ significantly, which makes them suitable for different types of loudspeakers.

Vincent Audio has updated its SA-32 hybrid preamplifier with a new version designated SA-32MK. The key addition is a Bluetooth module, allowing music to be streamed directly from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. However, the manufacturer has not expanded the digital section any further: unlike the anniversary SA-32 AE model, the SA-32MK offers no other digital interfaces.

Black Sabbath’s iconic rock albums "Black Sabbath" and "Paranoid" have been released in the ultimate audiophile format: 1/4-inch, two-track magnetic tape running at 15 ips (38 cm/s). The Rhino High Fidelity label produced these reel-to-reel (R2R) editions using fully analog transfers (1:1) from the original US analog master tapes, offering fans the definitive listening experience - a true "Holy Grail" for audiophiles.

British manufacturer Vertere Acoustics has introduced the Ruby One, its new flagship moving-coil cartridge positioned above the XtraX in the company’s lineup. Development took around five years, during which the engineers tested various generator, suspension and body designs, as well as cantilevers made from boron, diamond and ruby and several different stylus profiles.

A ranking of legendary reel-to-reel tape machines: Studer A820, Ampex ATR-102, Technics RS-1500, Revox B77 MkII, etc. Verified specifications and secondary-market prices.

Danish company Buchardt Audio has released the E50-S passive bookshelf loudspeakers, developed on the basis of the popular E50 model introduced in 2024. The manufacturer stresses that the new model is not intended to replace the original version, but rather to offer a different sonic character and different amplification requirements. The Buchardt Audio E50-S features higher sensitivity, a less pronounced low-frequency response and a more prominent midrange, which is why both models will remain on sale.

Musician has introduced the Delphinus external digital-to-analog converter, which uses separate processing sections for PCM and DSD formats. The unit is built around a discrete R-2R architecture and supports high-resolution digital audio, with PCM playback up to 32-bit/1,536 kHz and DSD up to DSD1024.

Choosing a speaker format through Hoffman's Iron Law, room modes and dynamic compression. Tables by room area, the economics of the decision, five scenarios.

Sonoro audio has released the PLATINUM Signature turntable, developed with the involvement of Karl-Heinz Fink. The model joins the company’s Signature Line and follows a deliberately traditional concept, with no Bluetooth, automatic shut-off, or built-in phono preamplifier. The electronics are used solely to control the motor, while the cartridge signal is routed directly to gold-plated RCA outputs. An amplifier with an MM phono input or an external phono stage is therefore required.

German manufacturer Seefluth Audio has introduced the Qlang M4s active loudspeakers, developed by company founder Michael Seefluth. The model is handcrafted in Germany and designed to operate without an external amplifier, with amplification modules and DSP already built into the cabinets. The DSP is used not only for crossover duties but also to adapt the sound to the acoustic characteristics of a particular room.

Eversolo has revealed details of its new AMP-F8 stereo power amplifier. The model operates in Class AB and is designed both for use in a conventional stereo system and in bridged mode. In stereo configuration, the amplifier delivers 2 × 180W RMS into 8 ohms and 2 × 280W RMS into 4 ohms, while bridging the channels increases output to 500W RMS into 8 ohms.

French manufacturer Analog Audio Design is preparing to launch the new TR-1100 reel-to-reel tape recorder, which will become the company’s most fully featured model to date. Unlike the TP-1000, which is designed solely for playback, the new machine will support both tape playback and recording. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in November 2026.

Sennheiser has announced the MOMENTUM True Wireless 5, its most advanced true wireless earbuds yet. The new model combines flagship sound, adaptive noise cancellation and a compact design.

Generator physics, load matching, tonearm resonance calculation, stylus profiles and cost of ownership. Verified published specifications for three benchmark models.

Japanese company Esoteric has introduced the new T-01 turntable, incorporating technologies previously developed for the flagship Grandioso T1. The model features a contactless magnetic drive system, magnetic bearing load reduction, and the ability to connect an external 10 MHz master clock.

Sonoro has expanded its Signature lineup with the ORCHESTRA Slim Signature compact passive speakers, designed for smaller rooms. The model was developed with the involvement of Karl-Heinz Fink and is also optimized for placement close to a wall. Measuring just 180 mm wide, the speakers are 326 mm high and 260 mm deep, allowing them to be placed on stands, cabinets, or shelves.

Mexican company Margules has released a special edition of its U-280 SC tube power amplifier to celebrate the model’s 30th anniversary. The amplifier retains the key technical solutions of the original design, which the manufacturer has continued to refine over the past three decades, including pure Class A operation, selectable output-stage modes, and a proprietary automatic tube bias adjustment system.

Majority has introduced two new turntables, the Stylo and Folio, aimed at users looking for an affordable system that is easy to set up. The Stylo is designed for use with external speakers, while the Folio features built-in speakers and can operate as a standalone system without additional components.

Vincent has updated its SV-737 hybrid integrated amplifier from the tubeLine series with the introduction of the new SV-737MK. While retaining the core circuitry of its predecessor, the manufacturer has significantly revised the connectivity options. The built-in Wi-Fi module has been replaced by HDMI ARC, allowing a TV to be connected directly to the stereo system, while network playback is now intended to be handled by an external streamer. The amplifier has also gained a Pre Out and a direct input to the power amplifier section.