Balanced Audio Technology VK-80i integrated amplifier $12,000 Review

March 10, 2024 Comments Off on Balanced Audio Technology VK-80i integrated amplifier $12,000 Review

https://www.stereophile.com/content/brilliant-corners-12-balanced-audio-technology-vk-80i-integrated-amplifier-ortofon-cadenza

What didn’t I love about the VK-80i? Though its sound is difficult to criticize, compared to some favorite tube amps, like the Manley Mahi or the Ampsandsound Red October, it can come across as a bit mechanical and studious, lacking the very last measures of presence, drama, and fun. Then again, those amps lack the BAT’s admirable neutrality and ability to drive speakers of average sensitivity, so pick your poison.

Finally, in operation the VK-80i produces some positively Hadean heat—its power consumption dwarfs that of the ungodly-hot Line Magnetic—so if you live in the tropics or spend your summers in New York City, you may want to keep this in mind.

HIBY R8 II $1,999 REVIEW

March 10, 2024 Comments Off on HIBY R8 II $1,999 REVIEW

The first-ever flagship DAP from HiBy was the R8. Although it was a fine unit, it didn’t quite have the pure sound performance to shape up with the best in the market. The RS8 that came afterwards has been a well-received flagship unit and it’s still considered one of the best. Now HiBy released the successor of the original R8, with dramatic design changes and much better figures/specs on paper. The company calls the R8 II a ”portable concert hall”.

Top 20 Most Valuable Compact Discs CDs

March 10, 2024 Comments Off on Top 20 Most Valuable Compact Discs CDs

Bespoke Conical Horns Project

March 10, 2024 Comments Off on Bespoke Conical Horns Project

2024 Recommended Products 

March 9, 2024 Comments Off on 2024 Recommended Products 

ATC SCM50SL & McIntosh MA462 

March 9, 2024 Comments Off on ATC SCM50SL & McIntosh MA462 

Quad Revela 2 Loudspeaker $4495 Review

March 8, 2024 Comments Off on Quad Revela 2 Loudspeaker $4495 Review

The Revela 2 extends the lineage of the S-5. It uses a similar formula, but improves. Did that new Butterworth crossover contribute to the wonderfully clean and almost undetectable crossover points? Likely. I also think the new wood-pulp and artificial-fiber drivers enhanced the overall easy-going flow, and help to provide the Revela 2 with a coherence that few speakers in this price range can provide. I’m sure the heavy and solid cabinets with the radiused edges and new internal bracing don’t hurt either. The outstanding cabinet construction could easily lead you to believe these speakers were more expensive.

HEDD AUDIO HEDDPHONE TWO REVIEW

March 8, 2024 Comments Off on HEDD AUDIO HEDDPHONE TWO REVIEW

The new HEDD AMT driver now is more precise and lighter than before. It has been reconstructed from the ground up, and it according to HEDD ensures that every sonic detail is more vivid and lifelike than ever before. With their VVT – Variable Velocity Transformation, HEDD allows the AMT driver to achieve even frequency response across the entire audio spectrum. You can find out more about the AMT drivers on HEDD’s website linked above.

HEDDphone TWO is the culmination of three years of relentless R&D. Every aspect has been refined for an unparalleled audio experience.

The changes however are not only driver related. There also is a new carbon-fiber headband which is ultra-light and durable. We also have an ergonomic head pad which reduces pressure, and there is a smart strap system which adjusts the shape and tension. The PU leather ear pads are comfortable, even with glasses and the TWO features forward-facing connections producing a more natural cable direction.

 Eversolo Masterpiece AMP F2 Power Amplifier Review

March 8, 2024 Comments Off on  Eversolo Masterpiece AMP F2 Power Amplifier Review

Avantgarde Acoustic, Phasemation, Oracle, HRS

March 8, 2024 Comments Off on Avantgarde Acoustic, Phasemation, Oracle, HRS