High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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10 / 07 / 25

Musical Artist Dominique Fils-Aimé At HIGH END 2026
The HIGH END SOCIETY has named Dominique Fils-Aimé as the official brand ambassador for HIGH END 2026, which takes place June 4th through 7th (2026) at the Austria Center Vienna in the music-rich city of Vienna. Under the theme The Power of Music, the trade show positions the celebrated Montreal singer as a living example of music's ability to connect people across genres and cultures. Fils-Aimé will attend the show in person and serve as guest of honor at the opening press conference, reinforcing the event's cultural as well as technological focus. Dominique Fils-Aimé is celebrated for a voice that bridges blues, jazz, soul, and Afro-American music history with contemporary sonic explorations, and her work has won critical acclaim and multiple awards, including several Juno Awards and Polaris Prize nominations. HIGH END Managing Director Stefan Dreischärf highlights her fit for the role, saying the organization "was able to enlist an extraordinary musician who stands for emotional depth, artistic diversity and audiophile quality," and that she underscores the show's international credo of blending music, technology and culture. Her presence promises curated musical moments and a visible embodiment of the show's theme throughout the program.

After 21 years in Munich, and some years before that in Frankfurt, HIGH END's move to Vienna marks a major milestone for the world's leading high-end audio trade show, with invitations to exhibitors already sent and registrations showing strong early interest for the new Austria Center Vienna venue. The four-day event will assemble hundreds of exhibitors from more than 40 countries, serving as the sector's primary B2B platform where manufacturers, dealers and representatives meet, conduct business and reveal innovations alongside immersive listening experiences. Framed by Vienna's storied musical heritage, HIGH END 2026 aims to launch a culturally inspired chapter that blends commercial momentum with artistic programming and heightened international attention.

10 / 06 / 25

Hi-Fi+ October 2025 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: A Stream Of New Hi-Fi Products To Enjoy
D'Agostino Pendulum Integrated Amplifier
Allnic Audio D-15000 Signature OTL/OCL DAC
Kharma Elegance dB9-Diamond Floorstanding Loudspeaker 
Metronome c/AQWO 2 DAC And Streamer
Musical Fidelity M8x Digital-To-Analogue Converter
Diptyque DP115 Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Burson Timekeeper Voyager Mono Power Amplifiers
Saltwood Sounds Finisterre Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Fell Audio Amp Integrated Amplifier 
Synergistic Research PowerCell 8 SX Power Conditioner
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "As we lean into the last months of 2025, hi-fi+ approaches two landmarks; our annual Awards issue and our 250th edition. The naysayers still claim the end of the audio business and printed media are only days away from imminent demise. We're still going 26 years and coming up for 250 issues later, and the steady stream of new audio products continue to amaze. Maybe those reports are greatly exaggerated! It's easy to catastrophise and confuse 'change' with 'collapse'. No one would deny the audio world has changed greatly since 1999. But that change is more often than not for the better. Yes, the roadmap for CD-based sources looks to take the format through some very arid places. But, equally, we're seeing the blossoming of really great sounding streaming products at all levels. The 'at all levels' part shouldn't be understated. We're seeing a flourishing of extremely affordable audio, offering good performance while still at low prices."
---> Hi-Fi+'s October 2025 High-End Audio Magazine.

10 / 01 / 25

Just Posted! October's Exciting Luxury Audio Review Magazine
Exclusive first-look gear reviews — a must-read issue.
The October issue of Enjoy the Music.com's Review Magazine delivers a rich mix of in-depth gear reviews, editorial features, and sonic storytelling aimed at serious listeners and industry insiders. We have multiple World Premiere gear reviews this month, with detailed evaluations of Voxativ's Hagen2 Tower high-end loudspeakers, the outstanding Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords, the impressive Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC... with each review focused on real-world listening impressions, build quality, and how products perform within a luxurious audio system. The issue's editorial balances a discussion about technical measurements with evocative descriptions, helping you understand both the specifications and the emotional impact of standout components.

This edition also includes feature articles that explore trends shaping the high-end audio landscape, including a flashback about the problems with CD rot from industry experts. For enthusiasts seeking actionable insight, Enjoy the Music.com's October 2025 Review Magazine offers tips, advice, and suggestions for getting the best from your power cables and in achieving a cohesive soundscape. Whether you're refining a high-end audio reference sound system within a dedicated listening room, something modest for your home office, or exploring aspirational audiophile upgrades, this issue provides practical guidance, inspiration, and focused reviews to help you make informed decisions. As always, in the end what really matters is that you... enjoy the music!
---> October's Exciting Luxury Audio Review Magazine.

Not Even The (Audiophile) Earth Is Flat
The myth of 'Flat Frequency Response'.
Article By Roger Skoff
Back well over half a century ago, that's 50 years, when I was a kid Hi-Fi Crazy, I had no money (kids never do), but I had been bitten badly by the High-Fidelity Audio (Hi-FI) bug, and – if I couldn't buy all of the toys and goodies that I so thoroughly lusted after, I could at least learn about them. So, like, I suspect, so many of us, I read everything I could find about Hi-Fi and Hi-Fi gear and started collecting (Yes, and even memorizing) "spec" sheets. Most manufacturers don't provide them nowadays but, back then, everybody, and I and all my young Hi-Fi Crazy friends put together our own libraries of spec sheets and product literature,  and would sit around listening to our used, hand-me-down, DIY, or kluged together "systems" and learnedly discuss the wonders and glories of all the stuff we couldn't afford. In the beginning (just to let you know how far back this was), everything was mono(phonic), but as time went on, it all – especially after 1957, when stereo LPs first came out – became stereo gear that we would dream of and pontificate about.
---> Not Even The (Audiophile) Earth Is Flat.

Flashback: The Mechanism Of CD Rot
Article By Mark P. Fishman
The BAS Speaker Volume 31 No. 3
Having read Brad Meyer's concerns about deterioration of CD-Rs (BASS V31 No2), specifically rising error rates with both radius and age, I think some explanation of mechanism is in order. For much of what I write below, credit should go to Mike Richter, who has been at this far longer than I, has had access to better tools, and has burned many more CDs. There are a couple of points of interest in Meyer's story. One is related to aging of CD players, which are not just electromechanical devices with special-purpose embedded computers, but are, crucially, electro-optical solid-state devices. When transistors were introduced, one of their selling points was that they aged far more slowly than vacuum tubes, and failed far less often. In marketing-speak (NB: a pejorative term), they last forever. The lasers used in CD players (and other optical-media devices) are laser diodes,  not the gas or crystal lasers used in science fiction as death rays or cutting tools.
---> Flashback: The Mechanism Of CD Rot.

World Premiere Review!
Big Sound, Small Size: Voxativ Hagen2 Tower Loudspeaker Review
Performing the most musical magical trick!
Review By Paul Schumann
Growing up, I had a neighborhood friend who did magic. He was always working on new illusions to incorporate into his act. Sometimes he had to build an apparatus, and others were sleight of hand. To start, he would practice the new illusion for endless hours in front of the mirror. Once the kinks were worked out, he would try it out in front of some of his neighborhood friends. When he did this, he added an extra layer of challenge for himself. He would show us how the trick worked before he performed it. That way, we knew what to look for. He knew he had mastered the illusion if he could still fool us. He was a master of his craft, and he still does magic shows for fun. Our audio systems, as ardent readers of Enjoy the Music.com know, can perform magic tricks. They take music that has been recorded in some medium, convert it to electrical signals, and turn those signals into vibrations that we perceive as music.
---> Big Sound, Small Size: Voxativ Hagen2 Tower Loudspeaker Review.

World Premiere Review!
Greater Emotional Connection: Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords Review
Going deeper into the inner details of the music you love.
Review By Rick Becker
The invitation for Enjoy the Music.com to review a new Audience Front Row Reserve powerChord from John McDonald, President of Audience AV, came as a complete surprise offer out of the blue. At $7500 each (1.5-meter), they would be two levels above the $2500 Synergistic Research power cords that grace most of my components. It would be an adventure into uncharted territory for me, were it not for the Furutech Project V1 Power Cable at $10,000, which came bundled with their excellent Furutech NCF Power Vault power conditioner I had recently reviewed. I accepted John's offer reluctantly because I wasn't convinced that power cords of that price would make a commensurate improvement. I also wasn't sure a single power cord would enable me to reach a valid conclusion. In the past, Synergistic Research had supplied enough power cords to feed my system from source to power amp. In the lower to moderate price ranges, the improvements were easily recognized and justified the increased costs.
---> Greater Emotional Connection: Audience FrontRow Reserve PowerChords Review.

The Ultimate Music Majesty: Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC Review
A glorious reach out and touch sound that invites you to listen more.
Review By Tom Lyle
Lindemann Audio is a German high-end audio company that has been in operation for over thirty years, just as the 30th anniversary of Enjoy the Music.com is being celebrated in 2025! In that time, Lindemann became known for being an innovative company that designed and manufactured excellent-sounding and well-built digital and other audio products at a reasonable price. Lindemann produces three series of products, three of which are digital components, and the other are loudspeakers. Lindemann's Woodnote series offers two compact-sized components, both of which are minimalist in design: the SOLO and the COMBO. The SOLO is a streamer / DAC, the COMBO is also a steamer / DAC, but also contains an internal amplifier in its similarly sized cabinet. I chose to review Lindemann's Woodnote SOLO rather than their COMBO because the SOLO will appeal more to audiophiles looking to integrate an extremely well-built and cleverly designed streamer / DAC into their system.
---> The Ultimate Music Majesty: Lindemann Woodnote SOLO Network Player / DAC Review.

Make Your Listening Room A Listening Room
Roger Skoff writes about how to enjoy your music more without spending a lot more money.
Article By Roger Skoff
Many years ago, a wealthy friend asked me for advice on spending the $100,000 he had budgeted for a new stereo system. After going through all of the usual questions with him, like "What kind of music do you like?"; "How loud do you like to play it?"; "How big is your listening room?"; "When you're listening to music, what do you listen for?"; and so on, I told him something like: "If I had a hundred thousand to spend on a system, I'd spend thirty thousand on all of the component, including the record player (turntable, arm, and cartridge), the CD player, the speakers – remember that this was a lot of years ago, and that a really great speaker system at the time, the Avalon Ascent, for example, was only about $15,000 – plus all of the electronics, and all of the cables. Then I would spend twenty thousand on creating and furnishing an acoustically as-near-perfect-as-possible listening room. And, finally, I would keep the remaining fifty grand for use toward my (then of the appropriate age) daughter's college education."
---> Read Make Your Listening Room A Listening Room.

Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 Loudspeaker Review
A new and innovative design in speaker technology.
Review By Dr. Matthew Clott
You might have to stand on your head for this review because Zoltán Bay turned the concept of speaker production upside down and inside out when he created the Bay Radial Speaker (BRS) Tweeter. And when you see the absolutely unique and creative Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 speaker design ($60,000), you're not going to be able to figure out how to stand, so just have a seat and enjoy the read. Maybe have the computer or tablet read it to you while you listen to your favorite composition in the background.... Be sure to grab your favorite beverage and have that cute dog (or cat) of yours sit in your lap and snuggle in; this is gonna be good! Decades of research, and over 35 years in the industry, led Mr. Bay to a unique radial sound projection system. In essence, it is a cylindrical membrane surface capable of changing its diameter. As with a more standard speaker cone, the pulsations of the cylinder create sound in the direction of radiation but in a perfect 360 degree omni-directional wavefront.
---> Bayz Audio Courante 2.0 Loudspeaker Review.

Pass Labs XP-17 Phono Preamp &
Pass Labs X250.8 Power Amplifier Review
Impressive sound quality that we've come to expect from Pass Labs.
Review By Tom Lyle
For quite some time I've been using a Pass Laboratories power amplifier, phono stage, and headphone amplifier as references in my listening room. There were times I thought that some might think I was a spokesperson for this brand of equipment! I could see how some might get that idea, because not only do I use three Pass Labs components in my system, I also will tell anyone who will listen that I consider Pass Laboratories' high-end audio components the best in their respective price classes. Then again, those who have read my reviews of other brands of audio equipment will be able to tell that I approach each review with an open mind. I attempt to be as objective as possible, and other than the fact that I happen to have three Pass Labs components as references, I've never shown a hint of favoritism towards any component or brand of component in any of my reviews. It is quite obvious that I consider music more important than whatever audio equipment that might be in my system at the time.
---> Pass Labs XP-17 Phono Preamp & X250.8 Power Amplifier Review.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

09 / 29 / 25

Capital Audiofest 2025: Washington DC's Ultimate Audiophile Experience
Capital Audiofest (CAF) 2025 is set to take place from November 14th to 16th at the Hilton Rockville in Maryland, continuing its legacy as the East Coast's largest and most beloved high-end audio show. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, offering three full days of immersive listening experiences, gear demos, and community engagement. Founded in 2010 by Gary Gill, CAF has grown from a grassroots gathering into a cornerstone of the North American audiophile calendar, drawing enthusiasts, engineers, and manufacturers from across the globe.

The 2025 edition promises to uphold its reputation for warmth and accessibility, with a family-friendly atmosphere and a strong emphasis on music appreciation. Music lovers will enjoy a CAF record-breaking ~150 listening rooms, each tailored by exhibitors to showcase their latest innovations in audio reproduction. Attendees can expect to audition everything from cost-no-object reference systems to clever budget-friendly setups, with a wide range of analog and digital front ends. The Atrium Marketplace will be buzzing with vendors offering rare vinyl, CDs, accessories, and audiophile curiosities, while the theater and bar areas will host live music performances and special evening events.
---> Learn More At Enjoy the Music.com's Exclusive CAF 2025 Show Report.

09 / 26 / 25

Artificial 'Intelligence' R&B Persona Scores $3M Deal
Xania Monet, an AI-crafted R&B persona operated by Mississippi poet Telisha Jones, has landed a reported $3 million record deal from Hallwood Media after a rapid rise on streaming platforms and Billboard charts. Her five-song catalog has attracted millions of on-demand streams and generated industry attention as labels weighed bids for the project. The signing has intensified an already heated debate over AI in music, with performers and industry groups warning that generative systems trained on existing catalogs could undermine creators, complicate copyright and royalty flows, and devalue years of human craft. High-profile artists voiced fierce objections on social media, arguing that AI-driven releases crowd out emerging musicians and raise questions about authorship and fairness.

Business supporters of the deal and Jones's team point to the music's authorship of the lyrics and to a blend of human direction with AI production as justification for commercial rights and label investment, while labels and litigators scramble to reconcile contracts with unresolved legal rulings and ongoing lawsuits against AI music platforms. The outcome of those disputes will likely shape whether Xania Monet becomes a template for future releases or a flashpoint that prompts new artificial music business / industry standards and regulation. Unions, major publishers, and several streaming services responded by announcing expedited talks on transparency, attribution, and royalty allocation for AI-assisted works, and lawmakers in multiple jurisdictions signaled interest in clarifying whether synthetic performances qualify for the same protections and payouts as human performers.

09 / 25 / 25

Interview With David Chesky
On Music And his new venture the Audiophile Society.
Article By Steven R. Rochlin
The Audiophile Society is the brainchild of composer, pianist, and audio pioneer David Chesky. The new label will focus on bringing even more realistic three-dimensional recordings to market with their Mega-Dimensional Sound, The Audiophile Society's name for their unique two-channel 3D audio that can play on all existing two-channel stereo, while showcasing emerging artists working in a multitude of genres. The ultimate goal of The Audiophile Society is to change the way you hear music. David, what do you think about the current state of the music and audiophile world? " The interesting thing about audiophiles is that they are cool with collecting LPs, CDs, and open reel tapes, but  at the same time very open to new ideas like what we are trying to do. I work a lot in the classical world where it is so hard to get people to like something new, we call it the un-acceptance of the unfamiliar.
---> Interview With David Chesky Concerning Music.

Keeping It Real With Authentic Sound Quality
Roger Skoff writes about the importance of true authenticity.
Article By Roger Skoff
When I was a kid Hi-Fi Crazy, I didn't have any money.  I had heard good sound, though, and I lusted after it almost to the same degree as I would lust after more conventionally lusty things in years to come. What I had heard was the, to me, mind-boggling and world-changing deep bass of a huge theater pipe organ played on a Bozak B-310 "Concert Grand" speaker (24Hz rated, with four 12" woofers in a 14 cubic ft. enclosure!), through McIntosh electronics, and I wanted that kind of sound for myself! Unfortunately, as a kid of 12, with no money and less-than-rich parents, I had to make do with what I could scrounge or improvise. That turned-out to be a Silvertone (Sears) combination AM radio and phonograph with a single speaker of (probably) 5.25" or less. Mono, of course; stereo didn't come along until years later.
---> Keeping It Real With Authentic Sound Quality.

09 / 24 / 25

Samsung-Owned HARMAN Completes Sound United Acquisition
HARMAN International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, announced today it has completed the acquisition of Sound United, the former consumer audio arm of Masimo. The deal brings renowned brands including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Definitive Technology, Polk Audio, HEOS, Classé, and Boston Acoustics into HARMAN's Lifestyle Division, immediately expanding its product mix across home audio, amplifiers, AVRs, headphones, and car audio. HARMAN says the acquisition creates one of the industry's most comprehensive audio portfolios and positions the company to offer consumers greater choice and deeper innovation across all listening environments. HARMAN will operate Sound United as a standalone Strategic Business Unit within its Lifestyle Division to preserve each brand's heritage, craftsmanship, and loyal customer base while leveraging HARMAN's global scale. Company leadership highlighted that the combination pairs Sound United's award-winning product design and engineering with HARMAN's strengths in connected technologies and worldwide distribution.

Executives emphasized that the structure is designed to accelerate product development, expand market reach, and maintain the distinct identities and roadmaps of the acquired brands. HARMAN called the transaction a strategic step to strengthen its leadership in premium audio and drive business growth through complementary portfolios, talent, and technology. The integration is expected to boost HARMAN's capabilities at the intersection of sound, culture, and technology, enabling faster innovation cycles and enhanced consumer experiences across home, mobile, and automotive categories. Company officials said customers and trade partners should expect an expanded lineup of products and continued investment in high-fidelity engineering and brand-specific innovation.

09 / 23 / 25

audioXpress' October 2025 Issue
Editorial: The Appealing Promise Of Tiny MEMS Speakers
Pushing The Boundaries Of DIY Audio
MEMS Speakers: Finding the Right Problem To Solve
Subjective Evaluation Of Production Vehicle Audio System Variance
The StreamAmp Platform For Speaker Designs
The HTL-100 High-Fidelity Multimedia Loudspeakers
Instrumental Assessment of Audio Quality For Cars And Headphones
Nugen Audio DialogCheck Measuring Speech Clarity
Acoustic Absorption In Ceilings
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "audioXpress has been reporting on the promise of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) speakers for nearly 10 years. Mike Klasco first gave a talk about MEMS loudspeakers at the ALMA Symposium and Expo event, preceding CES 2015, and wrote regularly about MEMS speakers' evolution. A decade later, we are seeing some actual progress, and products are available in the market. But MEMS speaker drivers are far from their original promise of disrupting the industry or even rivaling established technologies. Which raises questions until we dive into the details to understand that there's very little in common among all the MEMS transducers products that have been launched and promoted in the microspeaker class. The main thing in common is that MEMS typically include "microscale" mechanical structures (such as movable parts) and microelectronics all embedded on a silicon substrate. Other than the foundational technology, multiple MEMS devices share the same manufacturing processes derived from semiconductor fabrication. As we stand in 2025, the pioneering companies that have entered the industry with "MEMS speakers" have done so with completely different approaches. And some very interesting original concepts have not yet even made it to market."
---> audioXpress October 2025 Issue.

09 / 22 / 25

U.S. Music Industry Hits Record $9B Mid-Year Revenue, Driven By Internet Streaming And Vinyl LP Sales
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has released its 2025 Mid-Year Music Revenue Report, revealing a historic $9 billion in recorded music revenues for the first half of the year—a 7% increase over the same period in 2024. Streaming continues to dominate, accounting for 84% of total revenue, with paid subscriptions alone contributing $6.6 billion. The number of paid subscriptions rose to 101 million, underscoring the continued growth of platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Notably, ad-supported streaming also saw gains, reaching $1.2 billion, buoyed by strong performance from services like YouTube and TikTok. Physical formats showed surprising resilience, with vinyl sales climbing 15% to $882 million, maintaining their lead over CDs for the third consecutive year. CD revenues held steady at $250 million, while overall physical format revenue grew 11% to $1.2 billion.

Digital downloads, however, continued their decline, dropping 12% to $205 million, reflecting the broader shift in consumer behavior toward streaming and collectible physical media. The report also highlighted a modest increase in synchronization revenues, which rose 5% to $184 million, driven by music placements in film, TV, and advertising. RIAA Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier emphasized the importance of continued innovation and fair compensation for artists, noting that the industry's growth reflects both consumer demand and the creative vitality of American music. "We're seeing the power of music to connect and inspire across every format," Glazier stated. With robust gains across streaming and physical formats, the 2025 mid-year snapshot paints a picture of a thriving, diversified music economy poised for further expansion.

09 / 19 / 25

Hi-Fi+ September 2025 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: Making Great Strides In Audio Equipment
dCS Lina DAC X Digital-To-Analog Converter
PMC prophecy9 Floorstanding Loudspeaker 
Chord Electronics Ultima 3 Pre And Ultima 3 Pre & Mono Amp
Master Fidelity NADAC Digital-To-Analog Converter
Linn Klimax Solo 500 Mono Power Amplifier
Innuos ZENith NG Music Server
Gold Note HP-10 Deluxe Headphone Amplifier
Chord Company ARAY RF-Controlling Range
Seismion Reactio 2 Anti-Vibration Platform

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "Audio may be the most mature consumer electronics field, but that doesn't mean if's stagnant. Development in audio has been continual, with improvements in all aspects of performance. Even the most cursory overview of the audio world shows why this should be the case. If you compare a modern low-power solid-state integrated amplifier with one sold even at the turn of the century, the level of precision in circuit design, component integrity and reliability is considerably better. That's just the start, however. While there are many companies that tread a successful path free from innovation, others consider each new project a chance to start afresh, creating a synthesis of existing technologies and new concepts to add to the canon of audio engineering. We've made – and continue to make great strides in all branches of audio, and not simply by pushing the price-point envelope. The difficulty, however, often comes down to imparting that new technology. Reviewers have a range of skills, but one thing most of us are extremely capable of is reducing a concept down too far. Again, this is understandable for the sake of brevity and delivering information to the widest number of people."
---> Hi-Fi+'s September 2025 High-End Audio Magazine.

09 / 18 / 25

The Fantastic Florida International Audio Expo 2026
Florida International Audio Expo (FIAE) returns to the Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel February 20th through 22nd, 2026, for its eighth annual gathering of high-fidelity enthusiasts and you know Enjoy the Music.com will once again be there too! More than 100 exhibit spaces will showcase the latest in audio innovation, and attendees from around the world can immerse themselves in live music performances scheduled throughout the weekend. Industry leaders will lead seminars on everything from room acoustics to vinyl resurgence, ensuring every visitor—from the casual listener to the seasoned audiophile—finds something to spark their passion. Dedicated audition rooms will give guests the chance to compare speakers, amplifiers and digital sources side by side, making this three-day event a must-visit for anyone committed to exceptional sound. "The opportunity to audition your favorite brands and engage directly with company representatives remains a vital part of the buying and showgoing experience," said Bart Andeer, FIAE's Director of Show Operations. "It's no surprise that we've seen over 40% growth in the past two years. Our show continues to attract leading brands from around the globe, and the addition of the car-audio community brings even more opportunities for music lovers to connect and experience high-performance sound here in the Sunshine State." Returning exhibitors include ATC Loudspeakers, Audio Note UK, Chesky Audio, Focal Naim, Gershman Acoustics, Next Level HiFi, Oneiros Audio, Pass Labs, Playback Distribution, SVS Audio and VAC, among others.

Building on last year's success, FIAE will once again spotlight premium car audio with an invitational sound-quality competition featuring top-tier competitors from across the U.S. attendees can audition these high-end immersive automotive systems and participate in educational seminars backed by Florida Sound Quality, IASCA Worldwide and SQology. The Sheraton Tampa Brandon complements the show with ample onsite and overflow parking, a newly refreshed lobby lounge and a Starbucks slated to open later this year. Guests also enjoy free shuttle service to destinations within three miles—Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino included—and easy access to local dining and attractions. Of course there's Bush Gardens for roller coaster enthusiasts, and Orlando's parks for the kids and the kid at heart. NASA is also relatively close by, watch a sensational SpaceX Falcon 9 or Heavy rocket launch live! Tickets are available online and at the door, and with hotel rooms selling fast, organizers urge attendees to secure accommodations as soon as possible. For more information, visit FloridaAudioExpo.com.

Marten Parker Trio Diamond Edition Floorstanding Speaker Review
An amazing ability to separate each of the instruments and vocals in the soundscape.
Review By Tom Lyle
Marten speakers are designed and built in Sweden. Leif Marten Olofsson founded the company in 1998. Marten is now run by Leif Marten and his brothers, Jorgen and Lars Olofsson. Marten designs and manufactures five lines of speakers, all named to earn points from me; that is, they are named after American jazz musicians - Coltrane, Mingus, Parker, and Oscar. The fifth series is the Heritage Series, which has the sub-series Bird, Getz, Miles, and Duke. The Marten Parker Trio is a floor-standing speaker situated in the middle of the Parker series offerings. On its front baffle, it has two 7.5-inch ceramic bass/midrange drivers and a 1-inch "pure" ceramic tweeter, which in this model has been upgraded to diamond. Besides having a diamond tweeter, the upgrade to Marten's Parker Trio Diamond Edition floorstander also has upgraded crossover components, improved speaker terminals, and Marten's Jorma Statement internal wiring.
---> Marten Parker Trio Diamond Edition Floorstanding Speaker Review.

Métronome Technologie Le Player 4+ DAC / CD Player Review
The persistence of memory.
Review By Maurice Jeffries
In an act of musical and marketplace bravery, the esteemed French electronics firm Métronome Technologie has taken the bold step of offering music lovers still wed to physical media a device many long ago consigned to the dustbin of audio history: a dedicated CD player. When Toronto, Canada-based audio distributor / dealer Wynn Wong of Wynn Audio and our Creative Director Steven R. Rochlin contacted to gauge my interest in reviewing Metronome Technology Le Player 4+ CD player / DAC, I thought that they both must be crazy. What sane manufacturer would dare to offer a dedicated (and pricey) CD player in a market dominated by digital servers, streamers, music streaming services, and outboard DACs to that most fickle of consumers, the modern audiophile?
---> Métronome Technologie Le Player 4+ DAC / CD Player Review.

09 / 17 / 25

Making Vinyl Europe Returns For A Three-Day Industry Summit
Making Vinyl Europe 2025 returns to Haarlem from September 24th through 26th at PHIL (Lange Begijnestraat 11), convening industry leaders, manufacturers, artists, and distributors under one roof. Now firmly established as the premier European conference for the vinyl record sector, this year's theme "Embracing Change, Expanding Horizons" spotlights the economic trends, technological innovations, and sustainability initiatives driving vinyl's renaissance in the physical music market. Over three days, delegates will engage in a dynamic mix of expert-led panel discussions, focused presentations, and hands-on workshops covering every stage of the vinyl lifecycle—from cutting and mastering through pressing, packaging awards, distribution strategies, and marketing best practices. The agenda also features dedicated B2B matchmaking sessions, insider market intelligence briefings, and interactive forums designed to foster collaboration between businesses directly and indirectly connected to vinyl production and sales.

Held alongside the Haarlem Vinyl Festival, Making Vinyl Europe transforms the city into the vinyl capital of the world for one unforgettable week. Attendees can extend their networking amid live performances, exclusive vinyl releases, and cultural installations across Haarlem, while special early-bird and discounted tickets continue to sell out well in advance—underscoring vinyl's enduring appeal and its position as a vibrant, driving force in today's music industry.

09 / 16 / 25

Dubai's HIGH END & Smart Home Show 2025
The HIGH END & Smart Home Show returns to Dubai on September 26th and 27th, 2025, at the Radisson Red Hotel Dubai Silicon Oasis, marking its second edition after a wildly successful inaugural event. This B2B and B2C platform will bring together distributors, dealers, system integrators, architects, interior designers, and high-end consumers under one roof to explore the latest in premium audio-video and home automation technologies. The first edition attracted over 1,900 affluent attendees from more than ten countries, underscoring the Middle East's rapidly growing appetite for advanced AV and smart home solutions. Attendees can look forward to immersive demonstrations of high-fidelity audio-video systems, breathtaking home theater installations staged in residential-style settings, and a broad Smart Home Exposition showcasing lighting control, integrated AV, security systems, and home automation technologies. Dedicated zones for premium headphones will allow audiophiles and immersivephiles to audition and compare an extensive selection of models, while a vibrant vinyl market will feature both classic turntables and rare records for collectors. The show offers a rare opportunity to experience—and purchase—the innovations that will define next-generation home entertainment and automation.

A robust educational agenda runs alongside the exhibition, highlighted by the Smart Home Conference on September 26, featuring an accredited course titled "Designing Entertainment Spaces" presented by Tom Garrett of Trinnov. Attendees will gain practical insights into optimizing layouts, acoustics, equipment placement, and aesthetics for home cinemas and media rooms. Industry experts emphasize that the show provides an unparalleled forum for reconnecting with industry peers, forging new partnerships within the Middle East, and staying ahead of evolving AV and smart home trends. From informative workshops to exclusive sessions for architects and designers, the

09 / 15 / 25

Lossy 24-bit/44.1 kHz FLAC Arrives For Spotify Premium
Spotify has begun rolling out better quality, though still lossy digital audio, to Premium subscribers in select markets, marking a big missed opportunity launch. Since virtually the beginning of digital recording for the compact disc format in the 1980s, Soundstream's 20-bit/48kHz digital recorder or DAT-like formats were the minimum, with rates of 24-bit/96kHz and higher for modern re-mastering of analog magnetic tape and top-level recording studios as offered on music services such as Qobuz. Spotify's Premium users will receive an in-app notification when their so-called "Lossless" (according to Spotify) becomes available, unlocking streaming in up to the 1990's digital audio standard of 24-bit and 1980's standard of 44.1 kHz for nearly every track in their catalog. Whether diving into new releases or rediscovering old favorites, listeners can experience a bit higher quality of recorded music's depth, clarity, and nuance across their playlists than Spotify offered previously. With French company Qobuz music streaming service offering up to 24-bit/192kHz FLAC, obviously those desiring the very best immersive Hi-Res Music experience will seek out high- quality online music services.

The new Spotify feature with compromised audio quality is met with user-friendly controls, allowing customers to switch between Low, Normal, High, Very High, and now "Lossless" streaming modes across Wi-Fi, cellular, and downloads. Up to 20-bit/48kHz lossy playback is supported on mobile, desktop, and tablet devices, as well as hardware compatible with Spotify Connect from brands such as Sony, Bose, Samsung, and Sennheiser, with Sonos and Amazon integration arriving next month. Spotify's claimed "Lossless" is rolling out gradually to more than 50 markets through October. Premium subscribers in Australia, Austria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, the US, and the UK have already started to get access.

09 / 12 / 25

Revox Group & National Audio Company Cassette Production
U.S.-based National Audio Company Inc. and Swiss Revox Group have joined forces to relaunch high-end audio cassette production in Villingen, Germany. Under the partnership, National Audio will install its original cassette tape production line at the Revox Manufacture, enabling on-site fabrication of both blank and pre-recorded cassettes. This facility aims to deliver studio-quality analog playback and recording for music enthusiasts worldwide. By combining National Audio's decades of expertise in professional tape manufacturing with Revox's legacy in premium audio systems and master tapes, the alliance will position Revox as Europe's market leader in empty and music cassettes. The Villingen plant is set to become one of the continent's largest magnetic tape within cassette casing production sites, offering three distinct formulations—including a Type II chrome-compatible version—and bespoke European-made cassette housings to ensure the highest analog fidelity.

The partners plan to launch their joint portfolio in Q4 2025, debuting 100% analog music releases under the REVOX | Horch House imprint alongside deluxe blank cassettes for labels, OEMs, and independent artists. National Audio, founded in 1969 and renowned for its pioneering "Audio Pro" series in the late 1980s, contributes its extensive production heritage, while Revox secures distribution and product rights outside North America. This collaboration marks a bold renaissance for the compact cassette format on both sides of the Atlantic.

09 / 11 / 25

Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Progression S350 Stereo Power Amplifier Review
The Dan D'Agostino S350 amplifier makes each musical selection sound spectacular!
Review By Tom Lyle
Dan D'Agostino Master Audio products are not the most expensive audio components on the market, but in my opinion, their audio products are some of the best sounding high-end audio components I've ever had the pleasure of auditioning. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to review two D'Agostino Master Audio components in the past. In 2017, I reviewed the excellent-sounding Momentum Lifestyle integrated amplifier, which had an onboard DAC and could also be used as a streamer with its front-panel LCD metadata display. Also in 2017, I reviewed D'Agostino Master Audio System's Momentum phono stage, which I was highly impressed with its outstanding sound quality and very user-friendly front panel controls. The Progression S350 has a power output of 350 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms, which doubles when used with a 4 Ohm load. The technology behind this large, very heavy amplifier is impressive, which is an understatement.
---> Dan D'Agostino Master Audio Systems Progression S350 Stereo Power Amplifier Review.

Audience Hidden Treasure In-Wall AC PowerCable And High Definition Wall Receptacle Review
Like a buried treasure that pays huge dividends in musical enjoyment!
Review By Rick Becker
If you're reading this review, you're either considering the installation of a dedicated line in what is likely your dedicated listening room or perhaps your home theater...  or maybe the video rig in your family room if you're seriously into watching TV. Or possibly, you've already installed a line and are wondering if this new Audience cable might be a worthwhile upgrade. In any case, I suspect you're already convinced that "everything matters" in high-end audio, especially cables. Keep reading. Audience is one of the most respected cable manufacturers and my ears perked up when I saw the ad for their new In-Wall AC cable. It's been 20 years since I reviewed Joe Skubinski's JPS Labs Power AC In-Wall cable. He's sold miles of it and "Big Red" has remained my reference dedicated line ever since. What's taken so long for the competition to arise? Well, there is a company in Great Britain that has been around a while that sells one, but they are not a very big player in the US audio cable market.
---> Audience Hidden Treasure In-Wall AC PowerCable And High Definition Wall Receptacle Review.

09 / 10 / 25

Edinburgh Hi-AV Show 2025 In November
Edinburgh's premier destination for audiophiles and AV enthusiasts returns this autumn with the second edition of the Edinburgh HI-AV Show, taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh Airport on Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9, 2025. Organized by the family-run Chester Group—whose pedigree includes popular events across England—the show makes its comeback after a 17-year hiatus, building on the success of last year's relaunch. The airport-side venue offers seamless access via Ingliston Park and Ride and two tram stops, ensuring visitors from across Scotland and beyond can arrive relaxed and ready to immerse themselves in cutting-edge audio experiences. Attendees can expect an expanded footprint this year, with dedicated demonstration zones showcasing a spectrum of high-performance systems—from the refined warmth of vacuum tube amplification to the precision of Hi-Res Audio DACs and room correction devices.

A markedly larger vinyl marketplace will stock both new and used vinyl LP records and reel-to-reel analog tape. Whether you're curious about entry-level streaming rigs or ultra-high-end, esoteric gear, every room is calibrated to reveal the true impact of masterful recordings on optimal hardware, promising ear-opening revelations at every turn. Tickets, priced at £20 for unlimited weekend access, are now available with complimentary admission for under-15 when accompanied by a paying adult. StereoNET returns plus The Scotsman are official media sponsors, and exclusive show-only offers will be on hand for those looking to upgrade their rigs. "We are delighted to host this very popular show once again," says Justin Bird of Chester Group, underscoring ambitious plans to broaden the event's appeal and introduce new interactive elements over the coming months.

09 / 09 / 25

SoundExchange Appeals $400M Underpayment By SiriusXM
SoundExchange filed a notice of appeal in September, asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit to overturn an August decision that dismissed its lawsuit against SiriusXM. In the original ruling, Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald of the Southern District of New York concluded that Congress never granted SoundExchange the authority to litigate royalty disputes on behalf of recording artists and labels, effectively barring the performance rights organization from enforcing its members' claims in court. In its appeal, SoundExchange argues that the dismissal rests on a "flawed interpretation" of the Digital Performance in Sound Recordings Act of 1995 and the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998. The organization insists that Congress intended the statutory license's enforcement power to include litigation when digital music services underpay artists and rights holders.

SoundExchange maintains that SiriusXM's "faulty methodology" for allocating revenue between its satellite and streaming businesses has deprived creators of more than $400 million in royalties to date. SiriusXM has denied any wrongdoing, asserting its royalty calculations are "rigorous, tested and fair," and declined to comment further on the ongoing appeal. Industry observers say the Second Circuit's decision could reshape how performance royalties are enforced across all online and satellite broadcasters, potentially opening the door for future litigation by SoundExchange and similar organizations if the lower-court ruling is reversed.

09 / 08 / 25

BPI News About UK-US Trade And Tariffs
The BPI (British Phonographic Industry), a representative voice for the UK's record companies, music business, and label businesses to champion British music, has released details about U.S. tariffs. The U.S. introduced new tariffs on imported physical goods on April 5th (2025) to incentives on-shore manufacturing, and address "unfair" trade practices. Most UK exports now face a 10% baseline tariff in addition to existing duties, while countries deemed "worst offenders" encounter higher reciprocal rates—EU-origin goods, for example, are hit with 15%, with the Swiss experiencing a crushing 39% import duty. However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection carved out an exemption for "informational materials," including phonograph records (vinyl LPs), CDs (compact discs), audio cassette tapes, and similar items under Exception 9903.01.31. Despite this, music-industry members report that merchandise and recording-equipment shipments have sometimes been wrongly classified and taxed, reflecting inconsistent application of the exemption.

On August 29th (2025), the U.S. removed the $800 de minimis threshold for low-value commercial shipments, subjecting all imports to standard duties and fees. Physical music products retained their exempt status as "information materials," but BPI members continue to face hurdles with certain carriers who have not updated their billing systems or classifications. The BPI is actively feeding these operational challenges back to the UK Government to help streamline customs processes and ensure that music exports remain cost-effective and predictable.

Rather than retaliate with tariffs, the UK opted to negotiate the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD), announced on May 8th (2025). This non-binding agreement focuses narrowly on sectors like automobiles, steel, aluminum, and agriculture, with future talks slated to cover high-tech, intellectual property protections, labor standards, and environmental policies. While the 10% baseline tariff on most UK goods stays in place, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signaled a desire to push for further tariff reductions. The deal also seeks closer economic-security alignment between the two countries. BPI remains engaged in monitoring these negotiations—particularly any commitments on IP and technology—and continues to gather member feedback to share with the UK Government.

Previous High-End Audio News
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