It's time to take stock again. Despite the economic crisis around the world in 2022, the frightening shortage of chips and closed borders, the audiophile industry continued to actively develop. And today I have prepared for you a rating of the best Hi-Res audio players released recently. As always, the article is strictly subjective; all the devices in the selection are my personal favorites, the quality of which I vouch for. And I am glad that I have the opportunity to recommend them to you.
But is a player really needed in modern realities, when smartphones and streaming services ideally cover the issue of listening to music on the go? It seems to me, yes, and it won’t be any other way. Here it is worth drawing a classic parallel between audio and photography: for every day, a smartphone camera solves any problem perfectly, but if you need really serious photography, you will have to buy a special device, select an expensive lens, etc. There is also a good analogy with literature: in general, it is easier for us to read electronic books, including subscription ones, or listen to them, but none of these formats can replace a real paper book in a beautiful holiday edition. Accordingly, if you want to get an adult Hi-Fi sound, you need to choose a separate player. Here we will look at many different options, from budget to high-end, from pocket to desktop, from lamp-based to customizable. It will be interesting. To the point.
NAD C446
When we first tested this NAD, it had virtually no competitors. While inferior to the NA7004 in terms of equipment and luxurious sound, the C446 had a completely different character and was quite attractive.
The nature of the performance has not changed; lovers of soft sound will still be captivated by this player. Like Denon, NAD favors softness and refinement over attack and verve; however, the C446 has a refinement that its rival does not. Excellent microdynamics makes it ideal for conveying all the nuances of such chamber acoustic compositions as Wolf Among Wolves by Bonnie Prince Billy; The finest details help bring live recordings to life.
However, the attack and rhythmicity of the NAD is noticeably weaker than that of the Marantz. In addition, it turned out to be the least equipped. NAD has built-in Wi-Fi, Internet radio and Last.fm, but no AirPlay or support for 24-bit files; and those who want to connect an Apple device will have to buy a separate docking station. The company does not have its own control application, and operating from the remote control is quite tedious.
After the revolution in the network music player class, NAD seems under-equipped and not the most musical - it's a shame, but that's the reality.
NAD does not have its own application, but it does have a “network receiver” function that allows you to “push” music to it. The easiest way to do this is with the Twonky Mobile app for iOS and Android.
BEHIND
: Soft and refined sound; microdynamics; detail
AGAINST
: Competitors; low equipment; low rhythm and energy
VERDICT: The market does not stand still; this player needs improvement and price reduction
Technique:
- Inputs: Ethernet, USB
- Outputs: optical, stereo RCA
- Formats: MP3, AAC, WMA, FLAC, WAV
- 24-bit files: no
- Services: Internet radio
- AirPlay: no
- Digital iPod connection: no
- Wi-Fi: yes
- Tuner: DAB+, FM/AM
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 10×44×34 cm
- Weight: 4.7 kg
Test winner - Marantz NA7004
Photo - kingsound-textcube.blogspot.com
Competition for market share in online music players is bringing us great models at amazing prices; the recently reduced price of Marantz NA7004 is undoubtedly the best of all
The main takeaway from this intense test is that traditional hi-fi equipment manufacturers see networked music players as the future of their business and are desperate to capture the market in its early stages.
Based on these considerations, they lure buyers with incredible discounts on their models. Denon and Marantz have done this so far, but the trend is sure to continue in 2012.
The NAD player can only be saved by a sharp price reduction; now it looks quite expensive. But even if its price was closer to Cambridge, it would hardly be able to regain its lost stars.
Part of the reason is that the Denon player has a very similar sound character; It is inferior to the NAD in detail and sophistication, but will no less please fans of smooth sound, while its price is much lower and its equipment is higher than that of the NAD.
Cambridge Audio is also somewhat upset by the insidiousness of its competitors; However, the NP30's merits are so undeniable that it retained its five-star rating even under the desperate onslaught of the Marantz NA7004. Special thanks to the management application development team for the modern and exceptionally convenient user interface.
The Marantz app is noticeably weaker, but the NA7004 is superior in every other way. This smart and well-equipped player is not only a source component, but also an excellent DAC for processing digital music in any form. And most importantly, it has an amazingly great sound. With all the wealth of new and fashionable functions, it remains our main criterion.
Winners of the EISA Awards 2020-2021
EISA stands for European Imaging and Sound Association and is an association of European magazines dedicated to audio and video technology.
It was formed in 1982, today it includes more than 50 specialized publications. The journalists working there are high-class specialists who are very familiar with the European electronics market. They are independent and objectively select the best of the best in various categories. The award procedure is multi-stage. Many have seen the EISA logo on various audio and video equipment. Typically, users give little thought to what these or other marks mean for electronics manufacturers, what role they play and what they are given for. Ask about EISA even to someone who is familiar with this combination - what will he answer? Some kind of reward, he will say. Apparently prestigious. In principle, he will be right. But the main thing is that the award is a sign of expert recognition.
First, journalists test the equipment, selecting the best in their opinion.
You can find similar tests in many magazines. Then the best samples are nominated for an award - and each nominee must be tested by journalists from at least five publications. Among them, by the way, there are Russian ones. The winner in each category is determined after heated debate by a majority vote - the jury consists of the editors-in-chief of EISA member journals. Since we sell only audio equipment, only two categories of winners will be presented on the site: Hi-Fi and Home Theater Audio.
So, in 2022, the awards went to: Best AV Receiver for Home Theater 2020-2021: Denon AVC X4700H The
Denon AVC-X4700H AV amplifier has a 9-channel configuration and is equipped with all the latest audio/video technologies. The Denon AVC-X4700H can be distinguished from the younger model with the AVC-X3700 index at first glance - its front panel is equipped with a hinged lid, and the body itself has improved anti-vibration characteristics. In addition, the AVC-X4700H has added support for AL32 and DDSC32 technologies, the receiver is ready to play the AURO 3D (V2) format. And the linear outputs support 11.2 configuration. The device develops a rated output power of 125 W with a load resistance of 8 Ohms and is based on proprietary 32-bit DDSC HD Digital technology. The AV receiver's power supply contains a powerful transformer with a significant current reserve. Thanks to this, the Denon AVC-X4700H confidently copes even with complex speaker systems.
The AV amplifier is equipped with decoders for all surround sound formats available today, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced and Auro 3D.
The Denon AVC-X4700H based system can be configured in 7.2.2 or 5.2.4 for playback of object-based 3D formats. This is quite enough for full sound recording of even a large room. To process sound, the AV receiver uses a DSP based on four powerful SHARC processors and a proprietary AL32 processor, as well as a DAC based on 32-bit AKM AK4458 chips in all channels. There is support for HDMI Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC). Unlike the FM radio (and optional DAB) equipped AVC-X2700H, the 4700 doesn't have a built-in tuner. Best Budget Home Theater Speaker System 2020-2021: Triangle Borea Series
The Triangle Borea acoustics were presented this year at the High End Munich exhibition, but details about it have only now appeared. The Borea series of speakers, the technology of which is inherited from the successful Esprit Ez, consists of six models. These include three floorstanding towers, a 2.5-way BR07, three-way BR08 and BR09, two two-way bookshelf speakers - BR02 and BR03 - and a BRC1 center channel system. Triangle Borea components are reported to be suitable for both stereo setups and home theater setups up to a 9.2.2 configuration. According to the brand, these speakers will “provide clear vocal and midrange sound combined with powerful and controlled bass.”
Borea MDF cabinets feature perforated EVA foam interior panels that absorb low-frequency vibrations according to the DVAS (Driver Vibration Absorption System) concept. In most cases, cabinets are equipped with forward-facing bass reflex ports. Each cabinet received its own mechanical decoupling system from the reference plane. For shelf holders these are rubber gaskets, for floor holders there are support plates, and rubber gaskets are used, for example, if you need to protect the floor. Best floor-standing HI-FI speaker system 2020-2021: Focal Chora 826
The Focal Chora 826 model is a 3-way floor-standing speaker system with a bass reflex. Its low-frequency and mid-bass drivers, equipped with a Slatefiber cone, work in perfect harmony to produce transparent mids and excellent bass. The central layer of such a membrane is sandwiched between two layers of thermoplastic polymer and is essentially recycled non-woven carbon fiber. At the same time, the fibers themselves are “laid” in one direction, which was done specifically to improve damping properties and increase rigidity. The result is rigidity, lightness and excellent internal damping, resulting in precise, dynamic and well-balanced sound with powerful, articulate bass. An oval grill with magnetic fastening helps protect the midrange and bass speakers. The front bass reflex port is located below the bass driver to reduce distortion, and the Time Alignment angled base ensures a listener-focused soundstage.
The Focal Chora 826 speaker system uses a foam material called Poron in the surround that connects the dome to the tweeter base.
It is identical to the surround of the famous Utopia beryllium tweeter and reduces distortion by a third in the 2000 Hz to 3000 Hz range, where the ear is most sensitive to distortion. The depth of the stage and the very low directivity of the inverted dome allow you to enjoy silky high frequencies anywhere in the listening space. Best HI-END speaker system 2020-2021: SVS Prime Pinnacle
Ohio-based acoustics brand SVS has launched its large Prime Pinnacle floor-standing towers, which were announced last winter at CES 2022. Brand representatives emphasized that these speakers borrow “numerous design elements” from the flagship Ultra series models. In addition, “the sound dynamics match the tones of the models in the Prime and Ultra series for flexibility in system design.” It should be recognized that the Prime Pinnacle parameters allow these “towers” to be used both in classic stereo setups and as part of full-size home theater sets.
The speakers received tweeters with an inch aluminum membrane, the profile of which was optimized by Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
The all-new 5.25-inch midrange driver features a fiberglass composite cone, according to the brand, and “other design elements from the reference SVS Ultra Series speakers.” But perhaps the greatest interest may be caused by the low-frequency section: three 6.5-inch woofers, arranged in a row on the front panel, are actually divided into separate bass-reflex housings. It is important that each of the resulting subwoofer chambers is 40 inches high and equipped with a two-inch bass reflex port, but is configured in its own way. Together they provide "smooth merging with a seamless transition into the midrange." The result: the system is designed for a lower limit of 29 Hz with ±3 dB flatness across the entire audible range, and the small caliber of the woofers made it possible to “maintain a thin profile” of the speaker.
Best Wireless Stereo Speaker System 2020-2021: System Audio SA Legend Silverback
System Audio Legend 5 Silverback is an active bookshelf speaker from the current SA Legend line. Moreover, “Silverback” in the name literally means the silver color of the amplification and control unit mounted in the rear panel of the case. Indeed, in addition to the active one, there is also a traditional passive version of this speaker system, which requires connection to an external amplifier. And the terminal panel of this passive speaker is black.
Let's start with the speakers.
The 6″ woofer is equipped with a carbon fiber cone and a suspension with radial stiffeners that ensure linear movement. The tweeter is loaded onto a DXT (Diffraction Expansion Technology) waveguide designed by Mike Thomas. The total power of the built-in amplifiers is 150 W. A built-in digital signal processor is used for band separation, equalization and other needs. Cable connection is made via a balanced XLR input. Best Bookshelf Stereo Speaker System 2020-2021: Monitor Audio Bronze 100
The classic two-way speaker Monitor Audio Bronze 100 is capable of providing sound that is not inferior in breadth of dynamic range and richness to many small-sized floor-standing models. Thanks to the increased volume of the cabinet and a larger bass driver compared to the younger speakers in the series, Bronze 100 is able to work effectively as part of stereo systems without the support of a subwoofer. Of course, these speakers are suitable for a front-facing stereo pair in a home theater.
The speakers are made in 15 mm thick fiberboard casings, which are reinforced with internal ties.
Monitor Audio Bronze 100 is equipped with 8-inch woofers with a C-CAM combined cone. The continuous surface of the diffuser, coated with a thin layer of ceramics, ensures the absence of resonances and associated sound distortions, as well as uniform dispersion of acoustic waves. The speaker uses an original method of attaching the woofer to the front panel - using a steel rod located inside the case between its rear wall and the emitter magnet. This achieves dampening of parasitic vibrations of the front panel, and the design of the entire speaker becomes more rigid. In addition, the absence of visible fasteners around the woofer diaphragm gives the speaker a cleaner appearance. Best subwoofer 2020-2021: SVS SB-2000
The SVS SB-2000 subwoofer can be called universal simply based on its specifications. A 12-inch driver and 500 W of power allow it to be used in rooms of different sizes, and if we are talking about a larger cinema hall, you can simply increase the number of subwoofers - the bass depth is quite enough for a cinema. Another obvious and important fact is the size of the model. A cube with a side length of 37 cm is a very compact size for a powerful subwoofer operating from 19 Hz. It is easy to calculate that 37 cm is approximately 13 inches, so a 12-inch speaker takes up almost the entire area of the front panel. In addition, it has a long stroke, which allows it to provide high sound pressure.
An important point: a large working stroke is usually given to small-sized speakers operating in a housing with a bass reflex.
Whereas large drivers (12 inches is already a fairly large driver) in a closed acoustic design are traditionally made short-throw for better bass control. In this case, the manufacturers clearly had the task of combining high efficiency with small dimensions, so we have an atypical hybrid. In this situation, the main thing is not to lose the advantages of both approaches. Best soundbar 2020-2021: Harman/Kardon Citation Multibeam 700
The Harman/Kardon Citation Multibeam 700 soundbar is a slightly simplified version of the Citation Bar model; the Multibeam 700 model lacks Ethernet and HDMI inputs, and switching is limited to HDMI output with support for ARC technology, optical and line input. The number “700” in the model name indicates the number of speakers used in it; there are 7 of them installed, two of which are located at the edges of the soundbar and directed in different directions. The soundbar is very compact, its width is 79 centimeters, and it also has the ability to be hung on a wall (a bracket for this is included in the package). The soundbar is equipped with a color touch display, with which you can make all the necessary settings, as well as control its operating modes.
The Harman/Kardon Citation Multibeam 700 soundbar has three sets of drivers for separate sound of front stereo channels.
Each set uses a 25mm tweeter as well as a pair of woofers. Thus, the Harman/Kardon Citation Multibeam 700 is capable of reproducing a wide soundstage. However, the soundbar can be complemented with Citation Surround wireless rear speakers and a Citation Sub S subwoofer for a true 5.1 system. Signal transmission between speakers in such a system is carried out using patented WISA technology and does not have a negative impact on existing wireless networks. Best premium soundbar 2020-2021: Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage
The first soundbar from Bang & Olufsen, the Beosound Stage, is a universal device with the ability to connect to third-party TVs, but the product retains the signature Bang & Olufsen design and build features. According to the company, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage soundbar is made from high-quality natural materials and produces traditionally powerful sound. The manufacturer stated that the Stage does not require an additional subwoofer or satellites - the soundbar can handle it alone. The new product has 11 emitters, each of which is powered by its own separate 50 W amplifier. The housing contains three tweeters, four 1.5-inch broadband drivers and four 4-inch woofers.
The Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage can handle a variety of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and Dolby TrueHD. You can use HDMI ARC or eARC to connect to your TV. Features include support for several wireless technologies: Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Bluetooth 4.2, QPlay 2.0. In addition, the soundbar can be used as part of a multi-room system of speakers from other brands. Best integrated amplifier 2020-2021: Arcam SA30
The new flagship integrated amplifier Arcam SA30 is part of the HDA series. Arcam specialists have gained serious experience working with G-class circuitry. Its principle essentially involves the use of class A with the connection of an additional power source for processing signals of increased amplitude. The result achieved in the Arcam SA30 amplifier: 120 W of power per channel at a load of 8 Ohms and 220 W at 4 Ohms. No less interesting is the structure of the model, which, in particular, is supplemented by a 32-bit DAC ESS Saber ESS9038. Support for wireless technologies provides the Arcam SA30 amplifier with AirPlay 2 protocol, uPnP streamer mode and compatibility with Chromecast. On the other hand, the presence of HDMI ARC allows the amplifier to become an excellent addition to the TV. When connected via a local network, it works with Roon and supports MQA, which guarantees decoding of a stream (for example, with TIDAL) with the highest possible quality. Roon Endpoint status will allow you to work with the platform’s player and its library system.
The Arcam SA30 produces the first 20 W of output power in Class A, so at low volumes the sound of this model will be exceptionally smooth and musical.
The amplifier's audio circuit has very low nonlinear distortion and provides exceptionally detailed and balanced sound over a wide frequency range. The output stages of the Arcam SA30 are made using specially selected transistor pairs, and a high-power toroidal transformer is installed in its power supply. The chassis of the device has damping that protects electronic circuits from any external mechanical vibrations, as well as dampening resonances that may occur when speaker systems operate at high power. Best Turntable 2020-2021: Pro-Ject T1
Pro-Ject T1 BT has a classic design and, at a very affordable price, has high reliability and high-quality sound. The model is made on a solid full-size chassis with good anti-resonance characteristics, and reliable supports provide the necessary damping. The player is equipped with a dustproof cover. The Pro-Ject T1 BT features a lightweight 8.6-inch aluminum tonearm. The tonearm has an integrated shell, on which an Ortofon OM5 E pickup with an elliptical stylus is pre-installed. The presence of a standard mount allows you to install a cartridge of another model on the player.
The Pro-Ject T1 BT features an 8mm thick, polished tempered glass platter. This disc is resistant to resonances and has enough mass to maintain a stable rotation speed of the plate. The main disk is mounted on a sub-disk, which is connected to the engine pulley using a belt. This solution made the appearance of the Pro-Ject T1 BT neat, and the belt provided good decoupling from the engine. The support bearing is precision made of steel and has very little run-out and vibration. Additionally, the kit includes a damping mat for the disc. Best premium vinyl player 2020-2021: Thorens TD 1601
Thorens company presents two new vinyl players: Thorens TD 1600 and Thorens TD 1601. The name is a clear hint that both models are the reincarnation of the popular Thorens TD 160 player, which was produced started in 1972. New models use conical springs that can provide mechanical decoupling from the supporting surface. True, now they are installed not on the upper plate, but on the lower part, that is, the chassis does not hang, but stands on these springs. A special guide prevents the auxiliary chassis from oscillating in the horizontal direction and allows only vertical movement.
Both models feature a two-piece drive with an internal belt and a thick rubber mat, as well as a body with a wooden plinth and an acrylic dust cover.
The platform, motor, control module and power supply are identical for both new products. However, the Thorens TD 1600 is a completely manual player, and the Thorens TD 1601 received some additional functions and features: an electric micro-lift, the ability to automatically turn off at the end of recording with the tonearm raised, and the presence of balanced XLR outputs. The new power supply will provide a noticeable improvement in the sound of these players. Best Hi-End stereo system 2020-2021
year : Michi P5/S5
The Michi P5 preamplifier is the result of three years of work by Rotel, who carefully considered every component to ensure "the highest audio signal integrity, eliminating unwanted noise and distortion." The model received a comprehensive set of input switching - for both analog and digital sources. The Michi P5 preamplifier supports Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) technology, and also has a high-quality phono preamplifier on board. Compatibility of Rotel Michi P5 with automation and control systems is implemented using RS232 and Ethernet interfaces.
The Michi S5 stereo power amplifier, best in its class in terms of sound quality, produces 500 W per channel into a load of 8 ohms in class AB and more than 800 W into 4 ohms.
The dual-mono architecture features two custom high-capacity (2200VA) toroidal transformers, manufactured in-house and individually packaged with epoxy to eliminate noise and vibration. There are standard inputs on RCA and balanced on XLR. Together with the multilayer chassis, all this gives the component a weight of about 60 kilograms. A bank of 4 UK patented storage capacitors totaling 188,000uF provide exceptional bass energy while maintaining fine detail precision and control of the 32 high current output transistors. All this effortlessly guarantees rhythmic precision and synchronization even under the most difficult loads. Best Smart Amplifier 2020-2021:
NAD M 33
The NAD M33 is a DAC, amplifier and streamer product in one package, which was the first model based on the Eigentakt amplifier circuit from Purifi Audio. An amplifier based on this technology is immune to speaker impedance, volume level and signal content. As a result, we get ultra-low levels of harmonic and intermodulation distortion.” The NAD M33 model has taken its place as the flagship device in the current NAD line. The company is positioning the new product as an “ultra-performance amplifier” for the home. The main features of the NAD M33 include support for BluOS multiroom, a full color touchscreen with protective glass, an ESS Saber chip, full support for MQA decoding, a Dirac Room Correction calibration system, compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX HD Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and an “attractive” aluminum body.
The designers did everything to make the facade of the NAD M33 amplifier look extremely neat, in particular, the power button is placed in the middle of its top edge.
The black overlay protrudes slightly from the front panel, visually increasing the size of the color touch display, which displays all the information the user needs. On the left under the cover there is a 6.3 mm headphone output, on the right there is a volume control knob made in the form of a truncated cylinder - it is very ergonomic. By the way, I note that the regulation accuracy is 0.5 dB - a fairly high indicator for a digital amplifier. To ensure mechanical decoupling from the surface on which the amplifier will be installed, the legs are made in the form of spikes, and in order not to scratch it, the so-called. shoes made of elastic material. Best Hi-End amplifier 2020-2021: Musical Fidelity M8XI
The Musical Fidelity M8XI integrated amplifier architecture is composed of three virtually separate modules - a DAC, a preamplifier and a pair of amplifiers, housed in a common industrial design chassis. They are completely independent and were even developed separately. Moreover, the entire analog signal path is based on class A circuitry with low feedback. This approach allowed us to talk about increasing power, reducing distortion and improving overall sound quality. The Musical Fidelity company especially emphasized the high parameters of both micro- and macrodynamics of the model’s sound.
With an output power of 550 W at 8 Ohms (peak - 1.6 kW at 2 Ohms), we can talk about compatibility with almost any home acoustics on the market.
Each of the terminals is equipped with a separate power supply - it is 100% dual mono. The output uses highly stable Darlington pairs with temperature compensation. A DAC based on Texas Instruments PCM5242, powered by its own dedicated unit, processes the signal from two coaxial and asynchronous USB type B inputs, operating with bitrates up to 24 bits/192 kHz. Two more optical inputs can handle up to 24-bit/96 kHz. Oversampling with re-synchronization is used to minimize jitter. Best phono stage 2020-2021: Primare R15
The compact Primare R15 phono preamplifier - the device's body width is only 35 cm - offers two levels of gain for both moving coil and magnetic cartridges, as well as additional adjustment of resistance and capacitance to optimize the load for the cartridge used.
The Primare R15 is crafted with the same care that Primare puts into all of its amplifiers.
Its low-noise design is based on the flagship R35 model, and its sound combines Primare's signature detail and resolution. It is the ideal link between a high-quality turntable and your amplifier's line input. The Primare R15 is a compact MM/MC phono stage that provides the ideal interface between the low-level output of a moving magnet or moving coil phono stage and the line inputs of your Hi-Fi system. Best headphones 2020-2021: Dali iO-6
The older of the two Dali iO-6 models represents Dali's signature take on modern headphones. In addition to the high-quality artificial leather finishing of the ear pads filled with memory foam material, I would like to note the excellent customization of the headband. In addition to the fact that it also has a soft lining, the degree of its elasticity is selected very precisely in order to ensure reliable contact of the cups with the listener's head, but not cause discomfort. It's nice that even in its debut product the company was able to find the right balance.
Structurally, Dali iO-6 are classic dynamic headphones, the drivers of which are equipped with a powerful neodymium magnetic system. It drives a 50mm diaphragm made of cellulose - a solution that cannot be found in headphones of this class and design today. The company's engineers believe that even in headphones, it is paper that provides the most natural and correct sound. The best headphones for home cinema 2020-2021: JVC Exofield XP-EXT1
Using the proprietary EXOFIELD audio processing technology, the manufacturer has endowed the XP-EXT1 model with the ability to reproduce Dolby Atmos sound (7.1.4), using only two drivers with a diameter of 40 mm. Many competitors have tried to acquire similar systems, but so far only the pioneer company JVC has conquered the “top”.
And all thanks to a serious approach - the package includes a separate processor, which handles all signal processing, then transmitting it via the 5 GHz wireless protocol to headphones. The processor unit is equipped with three HDMI inputs, optical digital and analog linear inputs. Best DAC of 2020-2021: iFi Audio Zen DAC The
iFi Audio Zen DAC is an excellent high-resolution USB DAC/headphone amplifier. Compact enough to use as a USB DAC/amp on your desk with your favorite headphones. Powerful enough to use in your home system as a USB DAC.
The iFi Audio Zen DAC supports PCM and DXD for 24-bit/384kHz, DSD256 and MQA.
DSD remains the "ideal option" thanks to the True Native Burr Brown chip design. The iFi Audio Zen DAC features 4mm balanced Pentaconn outputs on the front and rear. There's also a popular 6.3mm headphone jack on the front panel. The iFi Audio Zen DAC features PowerMatch, a switchable gain mode to perfectly match your headphones. The iFi Audio Zen DAC boasts TrueBass. This patented technology is a switchable "bass boost" operating in analog circuitry... Best Premium AV Processor for Home Theater 2020-2021: Trinnov Altitude Platform
The Trinnov Altitude32 processor is probably good in everything except the price. Not everyone can afford even its standard 16-channel configuration. But it is worth noting that it was developed a long time ago, has varieties of 8, 16, 24, 32, 40 and even 48 channels, which not everyone needs, as well as the ability to connect to professional servers for film distribution, support for specialized interfaces, protocols and decoders designed for use in home cinemas with an unlimited budget.
Thus, a new and, by Trinnov’s standards, even quite a budget model of the Altitude16 processor was born.
This processor is more compact in size, it has 16 audio channels without the possibility of hardware upgrade with additional outputs. The ability to select any Dolby Atmos decoding configuration within 16 channels is retained - up to 9.1.4, 9.1.6, 11.1.4. Among the significant differences, it is worth noting that the signal processing in it is carried out in a resolution of 24 bits/96 kHz, while the older Altitude has processing in a format of 24 bits/192 kHz. However, both of these are more than enough for currently existing theatrical formats. Small differences also affected the facade. The design is still chic, but the lower-end processor is only available in black. The controls on the front panel are a little simpler; there are no convenient buttons for directly selecting inputs. But the most important thing that happened with Trinnov processors in general and Altitude 16 in particular was the appearance of a simple and understandable step-by-step guide for calibrating the system.
Best All-In-One Media Player 2020-2021: Zappiti Pro 4K HDR
Despite the abundance of devices that play 4K video, until now there was not a single file player that could play such video in full. Now there is - and it is in front of you. The device is made to the highest standard. Thick aluminum panels, heavy body, recessed logos - everything is very solid and high quality. Behind the front opening panel are two slots for hot-swappable hard drives. On the rear panel there is a full set of interfaces with a pair of HDMI outputs, required for high-end players, for video and audio streams, respectively, as well as coaxial, optical and analog output for audio and as many as three types of USB ports: 2.0, 3.0 and 3.1 type C.
Everything inside is also very cool.
The power source is an R-core transformer, and not a simple and cheap pulse adapter, and certainly not a remote adapter. Wima, Ero and Nichicon capacitors, as well as Philips diodes, were used as components. But it is based on the same chipset that is used in the Zappiti One SE 4K HDR - that is, a quad-core Realtek RTD1295 CPU and a Mali-T820 graphics adapter. And the operating system is Android 6. Accordingly, its capabilities are similar. The device supports both proprietary services Zappiti Video and Zappiti Music for visual cataloging of films and music, respectively. Best Home Theater Speaker System 2020-2021: Arendal Sound 1961 Series
The acoustics series of the Norwegian company Arendal Sound, which received the nostalgic name 1961, consists of eight models. It is important that, according to the developer, none of them use drivers or other acoustic design components from third-party manufacturers. Unless these may be the best elements from other products of the brand - for example, the already well-known 1723 series.
Like the 1723 series, the 1961 models received HDF (high-density fibreboard) cabinets.
They differ from conventional MDF in increased rigidity, which, according to Arendal, fundamentally affects sound quality. Vinyl is not used for decoration. The acoustics are built on the basis of a newly developed 5.5-inch low-frequency driver and 28 mm tweeter. The tweeter is based on the basic design of the 1723 series tweeter. The sound of the models in both series is similar in character, which allows you to combine components. Winners of the EISA Awards 2019-20
COMPLETE THE SYSTEM
- Amplifier Marantz PM6004, 24,000-
- Speakers KEF Q300, 29,500-
- Synology DS212j Network Storage Device, 9000-
Marantz NA7004
This is what we call an aggressive marketing strategy. It seems a five-star rating isn't enough for Marantz; she needs the NA7004 to defeat all its competitors in the network player category.
Not only do you get the usual set of formats, Internet radio, Last.fm and Napster, but also AirPlay (officially a paid option, but sellers often include it in the package), a headphone amplifier and a 6.3mm output. Bluetooth adapter (optional) and a set of digital inputs for connecting external sources to the built-in DAC.
This feature would be useful to many, but among the test participants only Marantz has it. It would be nice to have built-in Wi-Fi, but wired connections are more stable; It's a pity that the NA7004 does not support file transfer at 24 bit/192 kHz - however, competitors do not do this either.
While all of these features contributed to the Marantz's high rating, it was the sound quality that was the biggest selling point. We were only concerned about some HF brightness; but to reproach her with such a dynamic and exciting sound would be outright ingratitude. The detail is much higher than that of all other test participants; and although the Cambridge has just as much attack, the Marantz hits the front edges of notes more accurately and completely.
It was a great network player regardless of the price; after its decline he became irresistible.
Marantz's Wizz App is very similar to Denon's. Denon has a different name and different graphics, but they have in common a tedious page-by-page system and the inability to add songs to a playlist.
BEHIND
: Incomparable equipment; stylish and durable; amazing sound quality
AGAINST
: Not the best app for iOS
VERDICT: Great online player, regardless of price
Technique:
- Inputs: Ethernet, 2 USB, coaxial, optical
- Outputs: coaxial, optical, stereo RCA, headphones
- Formats: MP3, AAC, WMA, FLAC, WAV
- 24-bit files: up to 96 kHz
- Services: Internet radio, Last.fm, Napster
- AirPlay: yes
- iPod digital connection: yes • Wi-Fi=No
- Tuner: DAB+, FM/AM
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 11×44×35 cm
- Weight: 6.5 kg
