Audio-Technica AT-LP8X$1299 /Review
July 17, 2025 Comments Off on Audio-Technica AT-LP8X$1299 /Review
https://www.whathifi.com/hi-fi/turntables/audio-technica-at-lp8x
Ultimately, judged purely on sound, both the Technics and Rega packages still sit higher in the pecking order, thanks to their greater dynamic punch and rhythmic prowess. Both of these players, but the Rega in particular, are great at pulling the listener into the music. They deliver a more emotional musical experience, and ultimately, that matters most to us.
That said, by general price standards, this Audio-Technica record player does well enough to earn a recommendation.
TempoTec V3 Blaze $199 Review
July 17, 2025 Comments Off on TempoTec V3 Blaze $199 Review
Following the steps of the V3, the Blaze does not change. Using the same size and functionality, the V3 Blaze will feel familiar to those who use the TempoTec architecture. While the Blaze (and V3) feel a bit chunky in hand, the fit gives a good reassurance of durability.
The case fits extremely tightly, and if I had my way, I’d run without the case due to the tactility with which the buttons function inside the case. Tight for good protection, but a definite lack of functionality without effort.
The back has a nice tempered glass panel, which is subject to fingerprints and scratching without the case. I do like the design, with the functionality buttons on the right, and connections on the bottom. Made for right-handed people, I was able to use it with my left hand without issue.
Sonus faber Sonetto VIII G2 Floorstanding speakers review
July 17, 2025 Comments Off on Sonus faber Sonetto VIII G2 Floorstanding speakers review
Mytek Brooklyn Bridge II Roon Core | REVIEW
July 15, 2025 Comments Off on Mytek Brooklyn Bridge II Roon Core | REVIEW
https://pt.audio/2025/06/13/mytek-brooklyn-bridge-ii-dac-review/#google_vignette
Discussing all the functionality and features of the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge II seems like a Herculean task, but I will do my best. Mytek summarizes it as “an all in-one Roon Core Streamer + excellent DSD/MQA DAC+ Analog (w/Phono) and Digital Preamp and a high-end headphone amplifier.” It uses Roon for all of its streaming capabilities, but there’s an independent Mytek OS, based on Intel Ubuntu Linux, that runs all of the other functions. Once you’ve subscribed to Roon and downloaded the Mytek Control app, you can access the BB2 through any wi-fi device such as a smart phone or tablet, and all that functionality is available on the touch screen on the front panel of the unit itself.
The built-in Roon Core handles Tidal, Qobuz and local library in any format up to PCM 384kHz, DSD256 and MQA. The preamplifier’s analog section includes one set of RCA inputs and an MM phono section, and the digital section allows USB2 class 2, SPDIF and optical connections. There’s an additional Roon ready input so you can use another streamer if you desire. Bluetooth 5 is also included for quick connection to a number of wireless sources for “casual listening.” If that’s not enough for you, the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge II is designed to accommodate any number of future upgrades–alternative players, software and more.
SMSL M20 Review
July 15, 2025 Comments Off on SMSL M20 Review
Another highlight is the LEDs surrounding the unit. These LED lights illuminate during use and serve as indicators for volume and even navigation assistance. It’s a flamboyant decision since many gamers like to play in dimly lit or dark rooms, and these lights aren’t exactly subtle.
That said, there’s a feature that allows you to turn them off. In well-lit environments, LEDs are not overwhelming, and I kind of like them. They look very “cyberpunk” combined with the naked internals.
On top of the unit are three buttons: a red button on the right for menu selection and two black buttons for volume up and down. They are tactile enough, though the feel is closer to a soft click than a mechanical press.
These buttons handle filter switching, output mode selection, USB UAC mode, filter selection, and MQA mode without the need for an app. The “menu” is actually on the bottom side of the transparent top panel.
You get assistive LEDs to know what’s what. The usage is simple, although the labeling is hard to read due to the small font size.
Atma-Sphere Gem Integrated/Headphone Amplifier | REVIEW
July 13, 2025 Comments Off on Atma-Sphere Gem Integrated/Headphone Amplifier | REVIEW
https://pt.audio/2025/06/08/atma-sphere-gem-integrated-headphone-amplifier-review/
What I have here is a really tiny amplifier. Actually, it’s way more than that; this gem really does duty as an integrated amplifier that can handle both efficient speakers and a bevy of headphones, ranging from the efficient to the not-so efficient. I’m not really much of a headphone guy, so I employed this Gem as an amplifier for my really efficient Charney Audio Maestro-X single-driver speakers.
A bit of history about Atma-Sphere first. Ralph is best known in the industry for pioneering two things: output transformer-less (OTL) vacuum tube amps and use of fully balanced circuitry and connections in his amp and preamp products, and these design elements are highlighted in his mainline designs to this day. Interestingly, the Gem (on the surface… see below) sports neither. Right on top are exposed output transformers, and a quick look at the rear panel indicates the presence of (only) single-ended RCA input jacks. Was Mr. Karsten perhaps being a bit contrarian here with this design?
Galion TS Voyager TL Speaker Review
July 13, 2025 Comments Off on Galion TS Voyager TL Speaker Review
https://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2025/5/24/galion-ts-voyager-tl-speaker
I listened to GoGo Penguin’s latest Fallowfield Loops (2025) and the separation of piano, synths, bass, and percussion sections flowed masterfully, with decay done right and fullness in sound dynamics as well. Continuing with Electronica, Zero 7’s song “Look Up” from When it Falls (2004) shone with a center string section at the beginning and synths and drums on the left and right channels. It was a pleasant, immersive experience.
Classical music can be challenging for some speakers; soundstage and separation are lacking in sound if there isn’t a good mid-frequency, but with the Voyager speakers, the orchestras filled the room with ease. Brahms’s Third Symphony under Sir John Eliot Gardiner and the Concertgebouw (2025) gave a strong showing. Gardiner’s subtle use of strings (compared to his recording with the Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique from 2009 with “period” instruments that exploded with sound) was a regal performance.
High Fidelity Record Collection For Sale
July 13, 2025 Comments Off on High Fidelity Record Collection For Sale
Hegel Music Systems D50 Digital-to-Analog Converter Review
July 12, 2025 Comments Off on Hegel Music Systems D50 Digital-to-Analog Converter Review
in his conclusion George states that the Hegel D50 “delivers utterly quiet, incredibly smooth, and composed performances with astonishing dynamic presence. . . . It steps out of the way of the music, delivering resolution and detail in a nonchalant manner.” He acknowledges that at $4900 the D50 “can’t be called affordable”, but points out that “given its level of refinement,” compared to the prices of other high-end reference DACs, “it could be considered a bargain.” George’s praise for the D50’s performance and value earned it a Reviewers’ Choice award when his review was published. The D50 is now recognized as the latest winner of our Recommended Reference Component award for its performance.
Audiophilepure 
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