Latest News – page 4

Japanese manufacturer Hana has updated its affordable E Series MC cartridge range with the introduction of the Hana EL Mk II and Hana EH Mk II. The second-generation models retain an elliptical synthetic diamond stylus and aluminium cantilever, but feature a substantially redesigned body incorporating solutions derived from the brand’s higher-end cartridges.

Silent Angel has introduced the H1 Pure Music Hub, an all-in-one network audio component combining a streamer, DAC, and local music library management system. The new model is the company’s first device to feature a large front-panel display and also marks the debut of the Lifestyle Hub series. Housed in a compact aluminum chassis, the H1 is designed for both desktop audio systems and living-room setups.

Neumann has expanded its range of professional studio monitors with two active three-way models, the KH 310 II and KH 350. Both are built on a common technology platform featuring proprietary drivers, integrated amplification with a total output of 585 watts, and 32-bit DSP processing. The monitors are designed primarily for studio use, although their neutral tuning, low distortion, and advanced room-correction capabilities also make them suitable for high-end home audio systems.

German manufacturer AVM Audio has introduced two new phono preamplifiers in its Evolution series – the PH 3.3 and PH 5.3 – designed to work with a wide range of MM and MC cartridges. The main difference between the two models lies in the output stage: the PH 3.3 uses a low-noise transistor-based design, while the PH 5.3 features AVM’s proprietary tube output stage. According to the manufacturer, the tubes used in the flagship model are rated for a service life of several tens of thousands of hours.

British company REL has introduced two new subwoofers in its flagship Reference series – the No.35 and No.36. Their model numbers continue the brand’s anniversary tradition: the No.25 was originally launched to mark REL’s 25th anniversary, while the new models arrive as the company celebrates its 35th year. REL says the Reference series remains the fullest expression of its approach to low-frequency reproduction and is also designed for use in line arrays comprising multiple subwoofers.

FiiO has released the DP11 desktop CD player, designed to serve several roles at once – as a dedicated CD transport, a standalone source with a built-in DAC, or a component for direct connection to active speakers and power amplifiers. Its digital section is built around the Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC, while the connectivity options include both digital and analog outputs.

Amadana has introduced the Amadana CP10, a portable compact cassette player with a minimalist design. The device uses mechanical controls and is aimed at people who want the distinctive sound of cassette tapes without carrying bulky audio equipment.

Layer Audio Design has introduced the GEN-300B integrated amplifier, built around a single-ended Class A tube topology and designed for use with both headphones and high-sensitivity loudspeakers. Its fully discrete signal path employs two 6N8P driver tubes, a pair of directly heated 300B output triodes, and a 5AR4 rectifier tube. The rated output power is up to 10 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load, while separate 4- and 8-ohm speaker outputs are provided.

Clearaudio has launched the new Compact Phono preamplifier, designed for use with both MM and MC cartridges. The unit is housed in a compact metal enclosure measuring 115 × 26 × 80 mm and can be placed directly next to a turntable without taking up much space. It is available in black and silver finishes.

Danish company Davone has launched the second generation of its Solo loudspeaker, introducing the Solo-R to mark the tenth anniversary of the original model. Externally, the speakers remain largely unchanged and retain the distinctive design of their predecessor, while the internal construction has been extensively revised. The main focus was placed on new drivers and achieving a more even distribution of sound throughout the room.

British audio manufacturer iFi Audio has introduced the iCan Phantom 1.5, an enhanced version of its flagship headphone amplifier. While the new model retains the overall design and concept of the original Phantom, it features a revised gain structure, improved compatibility with sensitive in-ear monitors, a new display, and expanded remote-control options via the Nexis app.

YG Acoustics has introduced the new Vesper 3 floorstanding loudspeakers, joining the company’s flagship Reference series. The model was developed with a focus on high playback accuracy, wide dynamic range and neutral tonal balance. The project builds on technologies developed for the compact Carmel 3, while the Vesper 3 offers a larger-scale design and extended low-frequency capabilities.

Cayin has introduced the HA-1A Mk3 tube headphone amplifier, the third generation of one of the company’s most compact models. The new amplifier operates in Class A, uses an all-tube circuit design, and is intended primarily for desktop audio systems. Its construction incorporates specially designed transformers, while the HA-1A Mk3 itself is the smallest model in Cayin’s HA series.

Estelon Forza Ultra - the new High-End loudspeakers drawing on technologies developed for Estelon’s flagship platform, the four-way design features all-new Accuton drivers, a redesigned crossover network, proprietary connector system and Stillpoints Ultra SS V2 isolation.

TIDAL has introduced the new TIDAL x BUGATTI MA1 flagship monaural power amplifier, part of the Royale Collection. Positioned as the successor to the Assoluta Monobloc, the new model combines extremely powerful circuitry with a massive mechanical construction. Particular attention has been paid to the power supply: inside are three 1,000 VA toroidal transformers with magnetic shielding and mechanical isolation, while the total capacitance of the power-supply filter reaches 800,000 µF.

Swiss company Wattson Audio has launched the Madison Phono, a phono stage designed for MM and MC cartridges as well as DS Audio optical cartridges. Unlike conventional models, the new unit employs a hybrid architecture: after initial analogue amplification, the signal is converted to digital at 32-bit/384kHz DXD resolution, with subsequent equalisation and filtering performed in the digital domain. According to the manufacturer, this approach reduces the number of analogue components in the signal path, improves parameter stability and lowers the noise floor.

Majority has expanded its home audio range in two directions at once. The British company has introduced the Fitzwilliam line of full-size Hi-Fi components, comprising three separate products, alongside the standalone Quadriga Maxi all-in-one system. The new models are aimed at users who want modern streaming features without giving up CDs, terrestrial radio or traditional wired connections.

Polish manufacturer Feliks Audio has revealed new details about its flagship Eos amplifier, a prototype of which was shown at High End Vienna 2026. The new model sits above the Envy series and is designed not only for dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, but also for driving loudspeakers. Electrostatic headphones, meanwhile, remain the domain of the dedicated Bliss amplifier.

Marantz has introduced the compact Marantz MCR 60n audio system, combining the functions of several Hi-Fi components in a single chassis. It incorporates a CD player, network streamer, amplifier, MM phono stage and an HDMI eARC interface for connection to a TV. The company describes the new model as the most versatile compact system in its lineup. A Marantz MCR 60n DAB version with digital radio support will also be available in Europe. The system will be offered in Matte Black and Champagne Gold finishes.

Shanling has launched the CD50, a compact CD player that opens the company’s new Shanling 50 series of audio components. Measuring 188 × 53 × 205 mm and weighing around 1.6 kg, the unit combines the functions of a CD transport, digital-to-analog converter, preamplifier, and headphone amplifier. The model supports CD, CD-R, and CD-RW playback and features a loading tray with an HD850 laser mechanism.