Marcus Carlsen is an avid audiophile with a deep passion for hi-fi systems, high-end headphones, and premium speakers. Marcus constantly explores the latest audio technologies and equipment, from precision-engineered speakers to the finest headphones.
The NAD C399 is a high-performance hybrid amplifier and DAC. It uses an amplifier stage based on the nCore module, so far only available for Masters series amplifiers. Its digital section is equipped with an ESS Saber ES9028 digital-to-analog converter, supporting audio streams up to 32-bit 384 kHz PCM. The C399 is also the first amplifier to utilize the […] More
The Aune X1s GT is an elegant and powerful desktop DAC and headphone amplifier, part of the 8th generation of X1. Its optimized and neat architecture allows it to support high-resolution files up to PCM 32bit 768kHz and DSD512 via USB input or 24bit 192kHz and DSD128 via coaxial and optical inputs. The model is universal, it […] More
The Topping L50 is a desktop headphone amplifier with an architecture optimized for incredible sound. It features next-generation NFCA circuitry based on the circuit found in the excellent A30 Pro. Versatile, it has good power reserves and offers a gain control to adapt to all types of headphones. NFCA Circuitry The NFCA circuitry in the L50 allows it […] More
SHANLING EM5 is a full-featured high-end DAC/Headphone Amplifier with a wide range of different connectors including balanced XLR and 4.4mm. It can also be used as a DAC and preamp when paired with a separate power amplifier or powered speakers. DAC AK4493 + OPA2211 EM5 conversion stage is based on the excellent AK4493 chip. This generation of AKM […] More
xDuoo MT-603 is an affordable and high-quality tube preamplifier. Based on a 12AU7 tube, it exhibits characteristic warm and spacious sound reproduction. It has 4 analog inputs: three in stereo RCA format and one in 3.5mm jack format on the front. Output is in RCA format. Four large buttons on the front panel allow you to simply select the active […] More
Indian Sonic Lamb announced the release of Rapture headphones whose ear pads vibrate at lower base frequencies. The company claims that these are the world’s first headphones with a patented hybrid driver acoustics that combines air and body conduction “to not only hear the music, but to feel it.” Created by mechanical and electronics engineers Navajith […] More
The design of the new product fully fits into the catalog, and the architecture and functionality have been updated in many ways: for example, Cambridge Audio claims that the circuitry of the digital section in this model was developed completely from scratch. The new product, which has a “dual mono” architecture, is equipped with a dual […] More
The new Pioneer N-30AE network player is that rare case when the sequel is better than the original: the list of functions alone already speaks volumes. The Pioneer N-30AE is capable of handling a variety of sources. The main innovations in the Pioneer N-30AE include integrated WI-FI and Bluetooth modules, as well as support for the DSD […] More
The Japanese company Marantz presents the CD 60 CD player, designed for the highest quality sound due to proven circuitry and selected components. With its sleek industrial design and exceptional build quality, the Marantz CD 60 brings the warmth, richness and volume that only Marantz components can deliver to digital sources. “With an increasing focus on […] More
At the CES 2024 conference, Roon which recently became part of the Harman International concern , presented a new flagship server, Nucleus Titan . It replaced another top model – Plus . In a press release, the device’s developers said that the new server “combines cutting-edge performance and breathtaking aesthetics.” True, the document does not contain […] More
The segment of portable amplifiers is a specific, currently rather unsystematic niche in the portable audio market. Most portable sound connoisseurs prefer solutions that are as simple as possible in terms of functionality, convenience and portability. The classic connection – the player and in-ear headphones works perfectly for most. However, there are a number of times when purchasing a portable […] More
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD1000X model primarily impresses with the size of its aluminum cups, the back of which is made in the form of a grille, allowing you to see large broadband drivers with membranes with a diameter of 53 mm. These speakers are distinguished by the fact that their voice coils are wound with a special […] More
