Posts with tag "Streaming"

The vast majority of audio systems, both Hi-Fi and High End, use digital streaming of the music signal. Yes, the magic of vinyl is fascinating, but in many cases in the evening it is much easier to choose a playlist from a streaming service and enjoy Hi-Res sound. However, almost all audio paths oriented to the reproduction of digital, sound can be improved - and the costs of such manipulations will not be too high, and the increase in sound quality can be enormous. In this guide, we will consider the main techniques and steps for improving the sound of a digital audio system.

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.

The Arcam ST25 network streamer, announced in 2024, has gone on sale. The Arcam ST25 will be the perfect companion to the Arcam A5, A15 and A25 integrated amplifiers, which lack network functionality. The streamer is based on the Hyperstream iV platform and is assembled on a 6-layer electronic board with a continuous ground bus to protect sensitive components from interference and noise.

The South Korean company Hifi Rose has updated the RS150 network audio streamer, which was presented more than four years ago. The new version is called HiFi Rose RS151 – the streamer has several significant improvements compared to the previous one.

The new NAD CI SA2-120 BluOS streaming integrated amplifier is a part of CI Modular Series, and offers high power with minimal dimensions - 1/3 width x 1U height. The model uses DirectDigital digital amplification with built-in thermostatic cooling, allowing installation of the amp in a professional rack and offers a power of 2 x 120 W. The platform also allows switching to a 4 x 60 W configuration and the use of an additional pair of outputs with Dynamic Load Management system.

Roon Labs recently introduced the Roon Ready Relay technology, which is strikingly different from previously known (such as the RAAT protocol, for example). Roon Ready Relay is designed to connect all external audio sources, from CD and SACD players to FM tuners, cassette decks and vinyl players. Sounds tempting? Let's figure out what this technology is and how it can be useful for an audiophile.

The Japanese brand Onkyo presented a new series stereo equipment at the CES 2025 exhibition - the Onkyo Icon P-80 network preamplifier, the Onkyo Icon M-80 power amplifier and the Onkyo Icon A-50 streaming integrated amplifier.