Posts with tag "Hi-Res"

How the Holo Audio May’s compensation matrix works, its four conversion modes, measurements (22+ bit resolution) and what the KTE version really adds.

Japan’s Esoteric has launched the N-01XE, a network player with the functionality of an external digital-to-analog converter, developed using technologies derived from the company’s flagship Grandioso series. The new model builds on the concepts introduced with the Esoteric N-01XD SE but features substantially redesigned digital and network sections. At its core are Esoteric’s proprietary Master Sound Discrete DAC G2 and Network Engine G4, both conceptually inherited from the flagship Grandioso N1. Esoteric has deliberately avoided off-the-shelf DAC chips from third-party manufacturers, implementing digital-to-analog conversion instead with an FPGA and carefully selected discrete components.

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.

Astell & Kern has released the PD5, a portable Hi-Res music player that serves as an upgrade to the renowned SR35 model. The digital-to-analog conversion module now utilizes eight Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips, effectively doubling the conversion power. However, if you need to extend battery life, the player can be switched to a 4-DAC mode, achieving an impressive 28 hours of playback on a single charge. A full charge takes 2.5 hours, thanks to support for the PD 3.0 standard.

Weiss Engineering has released a modernized version of its compact digital-to-analog converter, the Weiss DAC204-MK2. The new model continues the concept of the original DAC204, but features a significantly upgraded digital section, an updated analog path, and a number of engineering improvements aimed at enhancing signal conversion quality.

American company MSB Technology has expanded its line of digital sources with the new The Palisade DAC digital-to-analog converter. The unit was presented at High End Vienna 2026 and takes its place below the flagship Cascade DAC, inheriting a number of key engineering solutions from the senior model. At the same time, the Palisade DAC is conceived as a more compact and less expensive alternative to the flagship model.

French brand YBA will present its new Design One SACD player at High End Vienna 2026. It is a compact battery-powered model designed not only for traditional Hi-Fi systems, but also for desktop and portable use. According to the company, the Design One is the first YBA device created specifically for the portable/desktop audio segment. The unit combines an SACD/CD transport, a digital-to-analogue converter and a headphone amplifier in a single chassis. The player measures 188 × 166 × 40 mm and weighs 1.34 kg.

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.

The brand Lumïn has launched the second generation of its network hub, the Lumïn P2, combining the functions of a streamer, digital-to-analogue converter and preamplifier. The new model develops the ideas of the P1, but offers a more powerful processing platform, a more advanced DAC section and expanded integration options for a modern audio system. According to the manufacturer, the Lumïn P2 is intended to serve as the central element of a contemporary High End system. The device combines a network player, DAC and preamplifier in a single chassis, making it possible to build a compact yet functionally rich digital front end.

Audio Technology Switzerland, the company behind the Nagra brand, introduced the Nagra Compact Streamer network transport in December 2025. Now the Swiss manufacturer has announced a similar device, but this time with a built-in DAC section – the Nagra Compact Player. At the same time, the company has removed the digital outputs. According to the developers, the Nagra Compact Player is a complete High End digital source that combines advanced streaming functionality with a high-quality DAC and an analog output stage built in a dual-mono configuration. The new network player supports PCM playback up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256, and was developed with special attention to clock architecture, power supply design, and the implementation of the analog stage.

British company Leema Acoustics has expanded its Leema 100 electronics range with two integrated amplifiers – the Leema i85 and Leema iD85. The difference between the models is that the iD85 includes a DAC section and, accordingly, digital inputs. There are still only a few photos and technical details available, but the prices of the new models have already been announced.

The well-known Slovak audio brand Canor Audio has introduced a new line of electronic components called Foundation, which includes the Virtus I4S integrated amplifier (which we have already covered) and the Verto D4S high-resolution external DAC. Both models feature fully discrete circuit design and a minimalist look with glass front panels plus convenient touch control. According to the manufacturer, they are aimed both at discerning newcomers and at “budget-minded” High End buyers.

The development of the music industry in terms of formats was cyclical - the era of analog tapes and vinyl was followed by the era of the compact disc, then file formats, Hi-Res sound and, finally, streaming. However, today we can confidently say that in the highest echelon of quality the pendulum has swung back - and vinyl has become more alive than all the living again. Not to mention the revival of interest in magnetic tapes, compact cassettes - analog sound demonstrates such a luxurious sound that music lovers and audiophiles are ready to put up with the inevitable ergonomic limitations.