Latest News – page 4

Matrix Audio, a company specializing in premium audio equipment, has introduced new models within its compact N series. The already available NT-1 digital music transport is now joined by the ND-1 external digital-to-analog converter and the NA-1 headphone amplifier. The manufacturer envisions the complete system as a desktop setup, complemented by another new addition – the modular TEMPO DX RACK stand.

The Backes&Müller ICE 525 preamplifier has received a built-in phono stage based on modern digital technologies. According to the developers, this approach makes it possible to achieve the highest level of accuracy even with non-standard cartridges. The company claims that the new model is capable of delivering a signal-to-noise ratio unattainable for traditional analogue phono stages. In addition, the manufacturer places special emphasis on the convenience of setup and day-to-day operation.

Australian company Burson Audio has released two new desktop headphone amplifiers – the Conductor Stellar and Soloist Stellar. Both new models are positioned in the company’s lineup between the entry-level Playmate 3 series and the more senior Grand Tourer devices. The Conductor Stellar features a built-in digital-to-analog converter and a Bluetooth module, while the Soloist Stellar is designed as a fully analog unit.

Polish manufacturer of high-end audio equipment Ferrum Audio has announced the second generation of the Wandla GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 – an updated version of its DAC/preamplifier based on the original Wandla model and the special GoldenSound Edition variant. The new model develops the ideas of its predecessors and places even greater emphasis on flexible sound tailoring to match a specific system and the owner’s preferences.

American audio equipment manufacturer Grado Labs has released the new open-back full-size Signature S550 headphones, expanding its proprietary Signature series. The new model is aimed at listeners who value warmth, naturalness, and a comfortable, non-fatiguing presentation, while preserving the openness, speed, and detail that are characteristic of Grado sound.

The Japanese audio manufacturer Soulnote has released the second version of its A-0 integrated amplifier, which delivers just 10 watts per channel, though in this case the modest power figures are part of a deliberate concept. The designers focused not on a substantial power reserve, but on precision, control, and musical expressiveness. What we have here is an amplifier with an extremely minimalist philosophy, built on a fully discrete circuit and operating without negative feedback.

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.

Italian company Gold Note has launched the external PSX-5.2 power supply as an upgrade for the electronic components in its proprietary Series 5.2 lineup. Unlike accessories that focus on isolated improvements, the emphasis here is on a broader, system-wide effect. The manufacturer positions the new unit as a way to raise the overall performance of the system by making the sound more cohesive, stable, and clean, with greater dynamic freedom and a quieter background.

With the launch of the Audio Research LS-3, the American company is addressing audiophiles who want a no-compromise line-level preamplifier without vacuum tubes, yet with a truly high-end level of performance. The new model continues the philosophy of the brand’s classic preamplifiers, but places its emphasis on a modern fully balanced solid-state platform designed for precision, transparency, and dynamic freedom of sound.

In developing the DX4000CL full-size headphones, Japanese company Final focused on combining good sound isolation, precision, and a more open presentation than one would normally expect from closed-back models. The new model is aimed at demanding listeners who need a serious tool for thoughtful music listening.

The new EX700 moving-coil (MC) cartridge from Japanese company Analog Relax is, according to the manufacturer, inspired by some of the most iconic and expensive classical musical instruments. The cartridge body is carved from spruce sourced in the South Tyrol region in northern Italy. It is the same type of wood that the great Antonio Stradivari used for his violins. The manufacturer promises a sound that “sings like the finest stringed instruments.”

The legendary British audio brand Leak has introduced its first music streamer, the Leak TruStream. Following the brand’s return to the audio world in 2020 with models such as the Leak Stereo 130 integrated amplifier and the Leak CDT CD transport, the company has now turned its attention to modern music streaming, without which virtually no contemporary stereo system can do today.

American company Audio Research has introduced the Audio Research LS-2 preamplifier. Its fully tube-based design, operating in pure Class A, eliminates semiconductors from the signal path and is aimed at maximum sonic authenticity. At the same time, the classic circuit concept is complemented by modern features such as a touchscreen display and optional modular expansion.

Acoustic Signature has introduced the Tango Apex NEO phono stage, designed for use with top-class vinyl record players and now heading the company’s range of phono stages. The new model is aimed at High End audio systems and is built with a fully balanced circuit topology featuring a “dual mono” architecture, where the left and right channels have separate amplification stages and independent power supplies.

Meze Audio has released the top-of-the-line Meze Audio ASTRU in-ear headphones. The model is based on a single dynamic driver, delivering premium sound, comparable to headphone designs with multiple drivers.

The German loudspeaker manufacturer Canton has introduced a special version of its popular compact bookshelf monitors, the Canton Reference 9 GS Edition, developed under the guidance of company founder Günther Seitz. The new model combines selected components from the flagship Canton Reference Alpha line with the compact concept of the Reference 9. The speakers are offered in four exclusive finishes.

The French company Jadis Electronics has announced a replacement in its lineup for the popular integrated amplifier I35. Its place will be taken by the Jadis Óde model. The output stages of the new amplifier operate in pure Class A and are built around KT88 beam tetrodes, hand-selected by Jadis. The amplifier can also use KT120 tubes.

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.

Magico has introduced the Magico S7 2026 loudspeaker, which now leads the popular S Series lineup. The new model features a five-driver, three-way configuration and weighs 174 kg. The S Series began its renewal in 2023 with the debut of the revolutionary S3, which set a new benchmark for performance in its price segment. The following year saw the introduction of the larger and more ambitious S5, pushing the series even further. In late 2024, Magico unveiled the compact S2, delivering impressive power and resolution in a smaller form factor. Now it is the turn of the flagship S7 – bold, uncompromising, and definitive.

British audio manufacturer Rega Research has introduced the new Rega AOS MC phono stage, specifically designed for moving coil cartridges (MC – Moving Coil). According to the developers, the new model is based on the flagship Aura.