April 03, 2025

Let’s Talk Rega Planar 8 with Rega Nd7 – A Special Synergy

April 03, 2025/ Audio T Reading/ Reading

Good day, all. Here at Audio T Reading, we love experimenting with mixing and matching equipment from different brands in an ongoing quest to identify system combinations that synergise beautifully—producing sonic outcomes that potentially deliver more than if sticking with components from the same stable. Logic would easily lead us to conclude that, for example, a Rega cartridge would likely be better suited to a Rega turntable, right? On the whole, this is often true, and it will work ‘great’. Or even more than great. But what if we want ‘exceptional’? What if, when listening to our music, we want to be moved by something ‘a bit special’?

Thanks to our constant tinkering, we have discovered a number of special across-brand pairings at all levels. For example, we know that the Acoustic Energy AE100² speakers sing at the end of a Rega IO amplifier, that the Lyngdorf TDAI-1120 all-in-one streaming (and room correction) amplifier truly shines when paired with a set of Dynaudio Special Forty loudspeakers, and that plugging the Meze 105 AER headphones into a Chord Electronics Mojo 2 makes for a delicious-sounding treat.

In our pursuit of the best sonic performance possible, we often cast our net far and wide to pull together an array of sweet multi-brand combinations—so much so that quite recently, a stellar same-brand pairing nearly passed us by. It was right under our noses, and it’s such a gem that we need to shout about it from the rooftops! However, we can’t easily get onto our roof (it’s more of a fitness thing than an access thing), so instead, here we are, pummelling the keys on our keyboard (something we can reach without needing to move) to bring you this blog and finally scratch this very big itch...

DYNAMIC DUO – REGA P8 MEETS Nd7 MM

Enter the Rega Planar 8 turntable with the Rega Nd7 moving magnet (MM) cartridge. It’s an absolute peach of a combination! But how did it nearly escape our attention?

Well, to divulge a little—Rega released the Planar 8 back in October 2018, seven and a half years ago as of March 2025. From then until fairly recently, it has largely been offered with the Ania and Ania Pro cartridges—both moving coil (MC) designs from the same Rega stable. The idea of pairing such a high-quality turntable with an MM cartridge has been almost unthinkable, as MM designs are generally regarded as offering lower performance than their MC counterparts (this cracking blog by Audio T Manchester explains why). As a result, the practice of exclusively fitting MC cartridges to the Planar 8 has become something of an ongoing rule of thumb.

Additionally, back at our old shop ‘at the back of the Butts’ (that’s Reading-speak for the east side of the town centre—you can now find us in Swallowfield), we experimented with pairing the Rega Exact MM cartridge (now replaced by the much-improved Rega Nd5) with the Planar 8. It worked ‘well’, but the combination didn’t blow us away.

The one MM cartridge we had great success with—and still highly recommend—on the Planar 8 is the Audio Note IQ1. It’s a ‘great’ sounding combination. A key feature of the Audio Note IQ range is that the stylus is upgradeable, meaning we can take an already fitted IQ1 and upgrade it to the top-tier Audio Note IQ3, which sounds truly spectacular on the Planar 8.

FINE-LINE FLYER – REGA Nd7 IN FOCUS

What say we talk about the Nd7, Rega’s new flagship MM cartridge? It arrived on the scene around July 2024, almost six years after the launch of the Planar 8. Given this length of time—plus the near set-in-stone association between the Planar 8 and MC cartridges—we initially felt that the Nd7 might have missed the boat as a recommendation for the Planar 8. On top of this, its price point (RRP £450 at the time of writing) seemed to place it more firmly in Planar 6 territory—on which, by the way, it sounds fantastic.

But then came a customer home demo just before Christmas 2024. We auditioned the Nd7 with a Planar 6 and then moved the very same Nd7 to a Planar 8—and what followed was one of the biggest and most grin-inducing surprises we’ve had. With each great record from the customer’s collection—if memory serves, Blue Note Re:imagined (2020) and Sault 11 (2023) among others—the lift in detail, clarity, three-dimensionality, and overall ‘live’ feel was truly breathtaking.

Needless to say, the customer pushed the boat out (or rather, pushed his partner’s boat out!) to go for the Planar 8-Nd7 over the Planar 6-Nd7—a soon-to-be birthday treat from his partner. That’s quite a special partner… but then again, the Planar 8-Nd7 is quite the special record player.

STIRRING SONICS – THE ROUSING REGA P8-Nd7

So, how does it sound? When the Rega Nd7 needle engages the record groove, we immediately hear that clean and dynamic sonic signature the Planar 8 is well known for—but now imbued with a touch of Rega warmth and fullness in the lower mid-frequencies. The Nd7 surrenders some of the airy, open feel apparent with the Ania, and even more so with the Ania Pro, but it neatly sidesteps the comparatively more analytical approach of those MC cartridges. Above all else, the Nd7 just seems to place the music first, leaving us unaware of any lack of resolution—which is exactly why we’re loving this moving magnet treasure so much.

Following that home demo, we left the Nd7 MM bolted to the Planar 8 (in place of the Ania MC), and it’s still set up that way several months on. Yes, the Nd7’s price tag doesn’t quite seem to befit a deck of the Planar 8’s calibre (RRP £1,970 at the time of writing), but further investigation into the Nd7 reveals that it shares technology with Rega’s top-tier Aphelion 2 and Apheta 3 cartridges—namely, a ‘fine line’ nude diamond of the same profile, making it highly adept at retrieving the finest of details. Rega has clearly put a tremendous amount of work into developing its fine line styli and their implementation within the cartridge housing.

Add to this the fact that the Nd7 features a new Neodymium N55 magnet—the world’s most powerful commercially available magnet and the first to be used in an MM cartridge—resulting in a higher power output that enhances its exquisite detail retrieval. Let’s not forget that Rega specifically designed the Nd7 for use with both the Planar 8 and Planar 6, making it all the clearer (or more pertinently, audible) why the Planar 8 with Nd7 ranks among the most special same-brand double acts around.

KEEP ON MOVING-MAGNET – FINAL THOUGHTS ON REGA P8-Nd7

But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what Jason Kennedy, renowned reviewer and editor of The Ear, had to say:

“I would suggest that those looking for next-level results with vinyl consider the Nd7 before an MC. It competes with both types at its price point and above, and the high output plus great tracking ability make it a very hard act to beat if you want to really dig deep into your vinyl. If you are looking to buy a Rega P6 or P8, this is the cartridge to go for—it will make your vinyl shine.”

If you already have an MM phono stage or an MM phono input on your amplifier, and you love the idea of owning a Planar 8, then pairing it with an Nd7 could give you all the record player you’ll ever want or need.

Please do get in touch with us for more information—we’d love to tell you more!

Thanks for reading – Rishi, Gareth & Dan – Audio T Reading

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Rega can be found at the following Audio T stores -

April 01, 2025

On me 'ead son! Sennheiser HD 800S Vs Focal Clear MG

April 01, 2025/ Audio T Portsmouth/ Portsmouth

There’s something special about sitting down with a great pair of headphones, closing your eyes, and losing yourself in the music. Recently, we had the chance to do just that at the Portsmouth Audio T shop, where we put two exceptional high-end models through their paces in a head-to-head comparison. The Sennheiser HD 800S and Focal Clear MG are both renowned for their outstanding sound quality, premium craftsmanship, and long-term comfort. But as we found, they are likely to cater for slightly different audiophile tastes.

Both of these top-tier ‘cans’ are designed for discerning listeners seeking a high-end home listening experience. Neither is intended for use on the go—on a train or plane, for instance—as their open-back design means they leak sound like a sieve (not that sieves leak sound, but you get the idea).

However, for high-quality listening at home—when you don’t want to disturb the rest of the house or the neighbours—these headphones, paired with a quality headphone amp, are simply superb.

Look and feel

The sennheisers sport a modern, almost industrial look

The HD 800S continues Sennheiser’s legendary HD 800 series, famed for its open-back design and generously sized ear cups. These headphones have a sleek, modern aesthetic with an almost industrial edge, combining matte black with silver accents.

Built with longevity in mind, the HD 800S features high-quality materials, including a lightweight yet sturdy plastic frame and metal ear cup components. The large, oval-shaped ear cups house Sennheiser’s distinctive "ring radiator" driver, a key element in shaping their renowned sound signature.

The Focals combine aluminium and leather for a premium look

By contrast, the Focal Clear MG takes a more decorative approach to design. Crafted with a blend of aluminium, magnesium, and leather, these headphones exude a sense of luxury. The ear cups are more circular in shape, contributing to a refined, cohesive look. The build quality is exceptional, with robust materials ensuring durability while keeping the overall weight comfortable for extended listening sessions.

Sound Quality

The Sennheiser HD 800S headphones are often described as open, airy, and exceptionally detailed. With a frequency range stretching from 4Hz to 51kHz, they deliver remarkable transparency and resolution.

They excel in the upper frequencies, making them particularly well-suited to classical music, jazz, and other genres that demand clarity and precision. The expansive soundstage enhances immersion, giving listeners the impression of being in the recording space itself.

Some argue that the HD 800S has a slightly recessed midrange, though this may simply be a contrast to its sparkling treble. Compared to other headphones in this price bracket, including the Clear MG, they don’t have a particularly warm sound—perhaps a by-product of their exceptional clarity.

The bass, while tight and controlled, isn’t as pronounced as some might prefer, reinforcing the sense that the HD 800S prioritises clarity over warmth. For those who enjoy a weightier low-end presence, these may be less than ideal.

The Focal Clear MG, by contrast, offers a well-balanced sound signature, delivering crisp highs, a well-defined midrange, and deep, controlled bass. While not exaggerated, the bass is powerful and impactful, potentially making them more versatile than the Sennheisers for those seeking a fuller low-end presentation.

The Clear MG presents a slightly more "in-your-head" soundstage compared to the HD 800S, but it still retains an impressive sense of openness and airiness. Focal’s proprietary magnesium driver material (hence the MG in the name) contributes to a fast, dynamic sound with excellent detail retrieval.

Comfort and Fit

The Sennheisers large ring radiator driver

The large ear cups of the Sennheiser HD 800S provide a comfortable and natural fit. The adjustable headband, combined with the soft velour padding on the ear cups, ensures excellent comfort even during extended listening sessions.

The Focal Clear MG has a slightly more compact build compared to the HD 800S. Its ear cups are made from memory foam, wrapped in a plush microfibre fabric, offering a soft and luxurious feel against the ears.

Although the Clear MG’s ear cups are not as large as those on the HD 800S, they remain comfortable for long listening sessions. The ergonomically designed headband distributes weight evenly, further enhancing overall comfort.

The Focals have a more compact design housing their magnesium drivers

Which pair is right for you?

Both headphones sit firmly at the premium end of the spectrum. The Sennheiser HD 800S is priced at £1,499, while the Focal Clear MG comes in at £1,399.

At this level, the HD 800S offers fantastic value for those seeking an open, highly detailed sound. Its expansive soundstage and precise treble make it particularly well-suited to genres like classical, acoustic, and jazz. However, its more subtle midrange and bass presentation may not appeal to everyone.

The Focal Clear MG, on the other hand, arguably provides a more versatile sound, with added bass weight and a punchier overall presentation.

Ultimately, both the Sennheiser HD 800S and Focal Clear MG are exceptional headphones, but they cater to slightly different preferences:

Sennheiser HD 800S – Ideal for those who appreciate an expansive, highly detailed soundstage and a transparent, analytical listening experience.
Focal Clear MG – A strong contender for the more versatile option, with a richer bass response and a more dynamic presentation across a variety of genres.

In the end, the choice comes down to personal preference and, to some extent, the type of music you listen to. Both models are superbly crafted, offering outstanding sound quality and comfort—so you can’t go wrong with either.

If you’d like to compare these headphones for yourself, or explore other options, feel free to give us a call on 0239 266 3604 or email us at portsmouth@audio-t.co.uk.

Alan, Aga and Luke - Audio T Portsmouth

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other hi-fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Sennheiser can be found at the following Audio T stores

Focal can be found at the following Audio T stores

April 01, 2025

Acoustic Energy Squares² the Performance - Again!

April 01, 2025/ Audio T Bristol / Bristol

The law of diminishing returns doesn’t seem to apply to Acoustic Energy. Each series improvement—100, 300, 500, or Corinium—represents a significant step up in performance, build quality, and finish, while maintaining the distinctive Acoustic Energy sound signature that invites an enjoyable listening experience, whatever the budget.

The original 300 Series, launched in 2017, was an excellent solution. The standout performer at the competitive £2,000 price point, the AE320, was a three-way design with a relatively small footprint yet great control. The new AE320² builds on this, enhancing performance without inflating the price.

It “stands on the shoulders of the Corinium project,” both visually and in terms of sound performance. Acoustic Energy states that the new 300² Series is “a completely new acoustic and aesthetic design from the ground up,” sharing no components with the outgoing model.

Specifications

image: Acoustic Energy Ae320-2 Mid Range driver

The most obvious change is the new mid-woofer—a blend of paper and coconut husk. The AE320² comprises a 120mm midrange driver, two 140mm bass drivers, and a 29mm tweeter. The new material delivers a smooth, natural, and refined response, embodying warmth and clarity while retaining the punch and pace of the previous aluminium cone. Partnered with a newly developed soft-dome tweeter derived from the Corinium project, it offers open, delicate, and natural high frequencies, tonally matching the mid-woofer to enable seamless integration across the audible range.

The crossover frequencies are set at 240Hz and 2,800Hz, with a frequency response from 33Hz to 29kHz. These are true three-way speakers with an easy-to-drive 6-ohm rating and 92dB sensitivity—making them more sensitive than the outgoing 300 Series. Amplifier matching should be straightforward. Acoustic Energy appears to have found a material with properties very similar to the carbon fibre used in the 500 range—light, fast-response drivers that enhance presence, speed, and transparency.

image: Acoustic Energy Ae320-2 Tweeter driver

A first at this price point, the new 300² Series features constrained-layer RSC™ (Resonance Suppression Composite) cabinets, pioneered in the Reference Series nearly 15 years ago. This advanced construction is claimed to "significantly reduce cabinet radiation, allowing the drive units to perform at their best without enclosure interference, ensuring pure, uncoloured, and natural sound." There is significant internal bracing, with the rear housing a circular, traditional port for the midrange and tweeter section of the cabinet, and a slot-shaped port positioned between the two bass drivers. This arrangement is typically used when the midrange and tweeter drivers are isolated from the bass drivers to prevent colouration, resulting in better clarity. The new outriggers provide plenty of adjustability and a very sturdy setup.

The Proof is in the Pudding

We set these up in our large demo room (L = 8m, W = 6m, H = 3.3m) with the Naim NSC 222 and NAP 250. Every room is different, but positioning was very easy. Good imaging, depth, and transparency were best achieved with the speakers positioned around 50cm from the back wall and set about 1.5m wider than an equilateral triangle setup, with the slightest toe-in. There seems to be quite a wide dispersion—linear in both height and width—helped by the new WDT waveguide. Midrange presence and bass speed are where these speakers excel. The higher frequencies are clear and rounded, with no real sense of brashness, harshness, or brittleness.

Moving away from Naim source and amplification, we tried them with the Rega Aethos and the Auralic Vega S1 streaming DAC with its dedicated power supply. This setup seemed to extract even more from the speakers, delivering better resolution and a very clear presentation of the fine adjustments available in the Auralic DAC. I have no idea why this may be—it's one of the quirks of Hi-Fi systems. Component synergies are often experienced in ways that technical specifications alone don’t always predict.

With the new 300² Series—including the standmount AE300², the small floorstander AE309², the large three-way AE320², and the on-wall AE307²—this range would make a phenomenal home cinema system.

It was a real pleasure to listen to these speakers, and a big thank you to Acoustic Energy for the loan of these pre-production models straight after their debut at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show…

Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025 - Brad from Audio T sat down with James, Acoustic Energy's Creative Director and the mind behind the design of these speakers, to discuss the new range.

Book an audition and experience these speakers firsthand. Whether you're looking for exceptional clarity, dynamic range, or an immersive soundstage, a personal listening session will let you hear exactly what they can do in a real-world setting. Visit us in-store to discover how they perform with your favourite music.

Thank you for reading,

Justin, George and Max - Audio T Bristol

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Acoustic Energy can be found at the following Audio T stores

*All prices, credit terms and interest rates quoted are correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change. E&OE

March 31, 2025

INTRODUCING THE SONOS ARC ULTRA PREMIUM STREAMING SOUNDBAR

March 31, 2025/ Audio T Swindon/ Swindon

The Arc Ultra is the latest addition to Sonos' soundbar lineup, replacing the Arc at the top of their three-model range. Promising enhanced performance and new features, it’s set to be their most immersive soundbar yet. One has just arrived at Audio T Swindon, and we’re wasting no time unboxing it and putting it through its paces. Read on for our first impressions!

Unboxing the Sonos Arc ULTRA at Audio T Swindon

Connectivity

Placing the Arc Ultra next to the outgoing Arc, we can see it’s slightly wider and lower—good news for those looking to avoid obstructing their TV screen. The extra width allows for a significant increase in the number of drivers housed within the casing.

Connectivity remains similar, with just the eARC HDMI port, but Sonos has now added Bluetooth support. A vast range of streaming services are built in, and the Ultra is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

To optimise performance in any environment, Trueplay tuning is available, and for the first time, it now works with Android devices as well as iOS.

Control is straightforward, whether using a TV remote, the Sonos app, or the touch-sensitive controls on the unit itself for Play, Pause, Skip, Back, Volume, and voice assistant activation.

Construction

Inside the slim, perforated metal casing are fourteen drivers arranged in a 9.1.4 configuration—an upgrade from the Arc’s 5.0.2 setup. To perform at its best, the Ultra shouldn’t be placed inside a cabinet, as the upward-firing drivers require open space.

A notable addition is a dedicated internal bass unit, a feature Sonos is particularly proud of. This innovative technology, called Sound Motion, uses a unique flat, brick-like driver design. Instead of placing the motors behind the membrane, they are positioned at the sides, allowing for greater movement and significantly more bass output than the original Arc—all while requiring less space.

Comparison with the Arc

Comparing the two side by side is fascinating. I expected the Arc Ultra to outperform the Arc, but the difference is far more pronounced than I anticipated.

My go-to movie test, Ratatouille, is packed with everything—deep bass, dynamic shifts, and great spatial effects. A standout moment is the scene where the ceiling collapses in the old lady’s cottage, an excellent test of bass depth and agility. The Arc Ultra not only reaches slightly lower frequencies than the Arc but, more importantly, is significantly more responsive. Later in the film, as the rats escape to the river, the Ultra delivers far superior soundstaging of the rain and thunderstorm, while the trip through the sewers digs deeper into the lower bass frequencies.

Sonos soundbars have always excelled with vocals—essential for following dialogue without constantly adjusting the volume. The Arc Ultra, however, takes this a step further, offering the clearest dialogue performance yet. The speech enhancement feature provides even greater vocal clarity when needed. Additional Sonos speakers and subwoofers can be paired with the Ultra for full multi-channel surround sound and even deeper bass.

Conclusion

The Arc Ultra represents a significant step up in performance over the outgoing Arc. Is it the best premium soundbar on the market? I can’t say for certain—but I wouldn’t bet against it.

Is it as good as a dedicated 5.1, 7.2 or 9.2 home cinema system? Unlikely. Even with additional Sonos speakers, it can’t quite match the impact of five or more well-placed speakers and a subwoofer, driven by a high-quality home cinema amplifier. However, if you’re looking for a premium upgrade to your TV’s speakers, crave the convenience of wireless technology or are already invested in the Sonos ecosystem, you may not need to look any further.

Thanks for reading

Jon and Andy - Audio T Swindon

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to contact us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Sonos is available at the following Audio T stores -

March 31, 2025

Wait, What? A Naim Streamer and amplifier for under £1,500! Say Hello to the CI-Uniti 102.

March 31, 2025/ Audio T Manchester/ Manchester

For decades, Naim has been synonymous with high-performance audio, crafting systems that bring music to life with clarity and precision. Best known for their premium Hi-Fi separates and all-in-one systems, Naim has now entered the custom install market with the introduction of their CI range. This includes the CI-NAP 108 8-channel power amplifier, the CI-NAP 101 mono power amplifier, and the subject of this review—the CI-Uniti 102 all-in-one streamer and amplifier.

With this move, Naim brings its renowned engineering expertise to the world of custom installation, offering solutions designed to integrate seamlessly into whole-home audio systems while delivering the sonic performance the brand is famous for. The CI-Uniti 102 stands out as the most versatile of the lineup, combining streaming capabilities, powerful amplification, and high-fidelity sound in a compact, rack-mountable form factor. But does it live up to Naim’s storied reputation? We put it through its paces to find out.

A Powerhouse in a Slimline Form Factor

The Naim CI-Uniti 102 is a slimline streamer-amplifier designed for the custom installation market, yet it delivers a staggering 150 watts per channel into 8-ohm speakers. It features a variety of inputs that accommodate TV audio, streaming platforms, and gaming consoles, alongside an analogue input for added flexibility.

Primarily designed to be housed in a comms cupboard or loft, the CI-Uniti 102 offers the kind of performance that makes it equally viable as a standalone integrated amplifier and streamer. From the moment you power it up, it becomes clear that the CI-102 punches well above its weight.

no Aerial acrobatics chromey, you landed on your head last time.

Are There Any Compromises?

If we’re nitpicking, some may argue that the CI-102 doesn’t offer as many inputs as some competing streamer-amplifiers. However, if your primary needs include HDMI for TV audio, an optical input for a gaming console, and an additional analogue input—perhaps for a turntable—you’re well covered.

Beyond these physical connections, the CI-102 embraces modern music consumption habits by supporting an extensive range of streaming services, including TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and Internet radio. It also features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth for seamless wireless playback. Additionally, it provides outputs for subwoofers and integrates smoothly with major home automation systems such as Crestron, Control4, RTI, Savant, and Elan.

so officially chromey , your height is 1U, told you it was worth eating your greens

User Experience: A Digital-First Approach

While the CI-102 excels in many areas, it’s worth noting that it lacks a front display and a traditional remote control, relying instead on app-based operation. This design choice makes sense for a device intended for discreet installation, but it may take some getting used to for those accustomed to physical controls.

Fortunately, the accompanying Naim app is a joy to use. It offers a responsive, intuitive interface with minimal latency, making navigation effortless. Those familiar with the Naim app will find the setup process straightforward, and the full-screen real estate of a tablet arguably makes a conventional remote unnecessary.

you can add rack mounting to sides of the Ci-102

Sound Quality: Performance Beyond Expectation

Let’s be clear: the CI-102 isn’t positioned to replace a Naim Uniti Nova or outgun a high-end separates system. However, its sound quality is nothing short of exceptional for its class.

With a high-quality DAC and meticulously engineered analogue circuitry, the CI-102 delivers a sonic performance that is both refined and immersive. From deep, controlled bass to shimmering treble, the soundstage is expansive, detailed, and effortlessly engaging.

We put the CI-102 through its paces with a pair of DALI Oberon 1 speakers and found that streamer-amplifier competitors like Bluesound and WiiM simply don’t come close. Even the Roksan Attessa Streaming Amplifier, priced around £1600, only just manages to hold its own in comparison. While the Roksan might tick more feature boxes, purely from an audio quality standpoint, the Naim is the stronger performer.

To push things further, we paired the CI-102 with the Dynaudio Evoke 30, an outstanding speaker set retailing around £3000. Once again, the CI-102 impressed, handling the Evokes with finesse and delivering a level of performance that exceeded expectations for an installation-focused amplifier.

For fun, we then connected the CI-102 to our demo room’s ATC SCM50 passive speakers. While it understandably didn’t exhibit the sheer drive and authority of a dedicated high-end power amp, the fact that it powered them at all—given the £10,000+ price disparity—was remarkable.

A Crossover Product with Broad Appeal

Though the CI-102 is firmly rooted in the custom install market, its features and performance make it a compelling choice for traditional Hi-Fi enthusiasts as well. Our time with it has reinforced its potential as a high-quality standalone integrated amplifier and streamer, as well as a powerful solution for multi-room audio.

Final Thoughts

The Naim CI-Uniti 102 is a formidable blend of power, versatility, and value, making it a serious contender for both custom installations and personal Hi-Fi setups. Whether you’re looking to integrate it seamlessly into a whole-home audio system or simply want a discreet yet high-performing amplifier-streamer, the CI-102 is a strong proposition.

Stay tuned, as we’ll be exploring Naim’s full custom install lineup in a future blog, examining how the range works together in a comprehensive multi-room setup. Watch this space!

Thanks for reading

Munir, James and Dave - Audio T Manchester

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Naim can be found at the following Audio T stores…

March 21, 2025

The All-New Acoustic Energy AE309² at Audio T Cheltenham

March 21, 2025/ Audio T Cheltenham/ Cheltenham

Fresh from making waves as one of the standout new releases at the recent Bristol Hi-Fi Show, we have now just taken delivery of our demonstration pair of the brand new Acoustic Energy AE309². Are they any good I hear you all ask? Well, after giving them a jolly good run-in on our main shop system, they’re now set up in the demo room for a more critical, in-depth listen!

Out With The Old…

We’ve been selling Acoustic Energy loudspeakers for quite some time now, and they’ve consistently impressed by delivering performance that punches well above their price point. The original AE309 has been one of our best-selling compact floor-standing loudspeakers for a while, so when we heard a Mark 2 version — or ², as they’ve named it — was on the way, we weren’t sure they could improve on an already fantastic speaker.

Well, improve it they have — and by no small margin!

…In With The New

The new Acoustic Energy AE309² benefits significantly from trickle-down technology, courtesy of the flagship Corinium loudspeaker. In fact, it shares no components with the previous model — this is a complete redesign.

The AE309² features brand-new paper and coconut-fibre bass-mid drivers, developed using research from the Corinium project. These are housed in an inert, slimline 18mm MDF cabinet, using constrained-layer damping with bitumen for improved rigidity and reduced resonance — a notable step up in both sound and build quality at this price point. Around the back, the slot-shaped bass port has been carefully engineered to minimise air turbulence, delivering clean, undistorted low frequencies.

A newly designed soft-dome tweeter, also inspired by the Corinium, provides open, delicate, and natural high frequencies, blending seamlessly with the mid-woofer for a cohesive, balanced performance across the entire audible range.

“I Like Your Top”

A sturdy set of solid aluminium feet and spikes act as outriggers, providing excellent stability and preventing the cabinet from rocking on the floor. A more stable speaker isn’t just practical — it enhances imaging and soundstaging too, delivering a more precise and immersive listening experience.

“Bottom’s Quite Nice Too”

The speaker connections are a pair of solid, gold-plated 4mm sockets — ready to accommodate banana plugs, spades, or even bare-ended cable with ease.

Round the back, the slot-shaped duct port enhances bass output and has been carefully engineered to minimise air turbulence, delivering clean, undistorted low frequencies. This clever design also means you can position the speakers closer to a rear wall without introducing any unpleasant bass boom — perfect for tighter spaces.

Looking Good From Behind Too…

History And Science Fiction

To put the new Acoustic Energy AE309² speakers through their paces, my first choice was History and Science Fiction by guitar virtuoso Chris Forsyth and the Solar Motel Band. The track comes from the 2017 album Dreaming In The Non-Dream, which I believe was released as a sort of anti-Trump protest howl against the destruction of the American Dream — makes me wonder how he feels now!

The album is short, clocking in at around 35 minutes, and has a raw, live feel. This track, just shy of 10 minutes, builds into a steadily evolving psych-infused art-rock jam. It’s a mutant blend of Marquee Moon-era Television and a Grateful Dead live space-out, with a full-fat, funky Velvet Underground meets God vibe running through it. There’s even a breakdown that’s pure prog rock — plus a surprise Roxy Music-esque sax moment toward the end, just for good measure. And here’s the kicker: it’s not even the best track on the album.

The AE309² speakers were nothing short of stunning. The soundstaging stretched far beyond the cabinets, creating a massive, immersive space. The bass was deep, weighty, and seamlessly integrated with a wonderfully open midrange. Topping it all off, the new tweeter is a thing of beauty — smooth, sweet, and brimming with detail, letting me peer right into the heart of the mix.

No Fluke

Just to make sure this wasn’t some kind of strange fluke, I figured I’d better try another track. This time, I went with Magic Mountain by Hollow Ship, from their album Future Remains.

Hollow Ship are a four-piece psychedelic rock band from Gothenburg, blending the sounds of early British psych with mind-expanding, funky Afro-rock grooves. Their music fuses sweet, 1960s analogue sonics with modern production techniques, creating a sound that’s uniquely their own.

Once again, the Acoustic Energy AE309² delivered in style — infusing the track with an infectious, bouncy energy and a swaggering, acid-soaked, guitar-drenched vibe. An air-guitary, psych-rock fever dream brought to life.

So, definitely not a fluke then!

The Best Just Got Better

To sum up — the best has indeed just got better. There’s now a sizeable gulf between the new AE309² and the rest of the competition, who’ll need to seriously up their game to avoid being left behind. These compact floor-standing marvels have no right to sound this good for the price.

In line with modern furniture trends, Acoustic Energy has moved away from the high-gloss finishes of the previous 300 Series. Instead, the AE309² comes in a newly developed, highly durable 'silk-touch' black or white matte finish, or a classic walnut wood veneer — all paired with colour-coordinated trims and premium fabric grilles for a refined, contemporary look.

Sonically, they’re an exciting, exhilarating, and incisive listen — and they absolutely deserve a spot at the top of any serious shortlist of loudspeakers to demo this year.

Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025 - Brad from Audio T sat down with James, Acoustic Energy's Creative Director and the mind behind the design of these speakers, to discuss the new range.

The Bit At The End

Well, there you have it! If you’re curious to hear just how impressive the new AE309² — or any of the refreshed Acoustic Energy 300 Series — sounds for yourself, why not book a demonstration at your local Audio T? There’s nothing quite like hearing them in person, and our team will be more than happy to set them up, answer any questions, and help you find the perfect setup for your system. Get in touch today — you won’t be disappointed.

Thanks for reading - Andy, Jon and Farid - (but mainly Andy)- Audio T Cheltenham Store.

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Acoustic Energy can be found at the following Audio T stores -

March 19, 2025

THE BRISTOL HI-FI SHOW 2025 - THE MASSES, THE MUSIC AND THE LEGENDS

March 19, 2025/ Audio T Swansea/ Swansea

It’s been a few weeks since The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025, and the dust is just about settling. As ever, it was a very busy weekend that flew by in a flash. At 10am on Friday morning, the doors open, and suddenly it’s 5pm on Sunday — time for the exhibitors to pack down and begin the mammoth task of returning the hotel to normal.

This was about the 30th show I’ve worked at, the first being in 1992 (when I hadn’t been working for Audio Excellence for very long). I was completely amazed at the scale of the show and the number of exhibitors all under one roof. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s even more of an incredible event — packed with exhibitors and so much to see and hear. I thought I’d give you a little insight into the show and share my highlights from the 2025 Bristol Hi-Fi Show.

Behind the scenes

In the lead-up to the show, exhibitors start arriving on the Wednesday to begin unloading their equipment and setting up their rooms, alongside construction crews building the impressive stands you’ll see — like the many of the setups in the Bristol Suite on the ground floor. The sound of power tools fills the air! Thursday sees the majority of the exhibitors arrive, with a huge team of porters working like an army of ants, getting vast quantities of equipment from lorries and vans into the right rooms for each manufacturer in record time. I usually arrive on Thursday afternoon to help with setting up the Audio T sales rooms (though, to be fair, most of the hard work is already done by our brilliant IT team, who set up the till systems and more).

For anyone who’s attended the shows over the years, it’s clear just how much work goes into getting everything up and running. It’s a true testament to Audio T, the hotel and all the manufacturers for their continued efforts to put on such a fantastic show for loyal Hi-Fi and home cinema enthusiasts year after year.

By late Thursday evening, the madness starts to calm. Everyone is busily fine-tuning their systems, and the hotel gradually fills with the sound of music as more setups come to life. It’s a magical moment when the rooms transform from chaotic setups into immersive listening spaces, each one showcasing something different — from powerful floorstanding speakers to delicate turntables, all working in harmony to deliver unforgettable sound experiences.

It is time…

Friday morning arrives, and the hotel is buzzing! It’s an early start for everyone — make sure you hit that breakfast buffet hard, as you never know when you’ll get a chance to grab a snack during the day (speaking from experience). Then it’s down to the ground floor sales desk to gather the team for a briefing — and then it’s all systems go!

Throughout the weekend, the energy never drops. There’s a constant flow of excited visitors exploring room after room, discovering the latest equipment, chatting with experts, and soaking in the music. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of Hi-Fi, The Bristol Hi-Fi Show offers something for everyone — it’s a true celebration of sound.

The Hard Working STaff on the Entrance Desks

The clock approaches 10am, our fabulous team are ready to go at the main entrance and a quick step outside for some fresh air — and the sight which we have come to expect over the years of a queue heading off around the hotel is there once again — fantastic!

The doors open and before we know it the corridors are full of visitors, the exhibitors' rooms are all open and filling up, and at the sales desk, we remember the quiz we play every year which is: “how long will it be before we hear someone playing Hotel California?” So — if you were near the ground floor sales desk and heard a collective “NOOOOOOO!!!” — now you know why. There have been a lot of songs over the years that get used and used and used, but the one that seems to be lingering is Hotel California, and let’s be honest — there’s only so many times you can hear it!

As the day goes on, it’s the usual very busy Friday. We are super busy on the sales desk offering advice, helping first-time visitors find their way around the hotel, and of course making lots of sales. For anyone that has visited the show, you will have seen the huge Chord Company stands as soon as you enter the show and their eager team greeting you as you come in. Needless to say, with their great show offers and bargain cable bins, they were one of the most popular purchases at the show.

Another very popular purchase at the show was IsoAcoustics, and has been for a good few years now. A fantastic product that is so quick and easy to demonstrate, lots of visitors were purchasing the amazing Gaia Speaker Isolation feet. If you have not experienced any of the IsoAcoustics range then it’s well worth checking them out at your nearest Audio T store.

Some personal highlights…

I managed to get out and about this year to take a look at some rooms, so here’s a few that really stood out for me:

Firstly, David and Goliath — the fabulous little WiiM products, who were launching their new WiiM Vibelink amplifier to sit alongside the WiiM Ultra. Then, to the absolutely bonkers demo from REL Acoustics (by far the most attended room of the show), who were demonstrating a six-pack of Reference Subwoofers alongside some amazing Audio Research electronics. For anyone that heard this demo, I’m sure you’ll agree — it was breathtaking!

A few other products that caught my eye include the new Quad 33/303 amplifiers, Ruark’s new R610 Music Console and Sabre-R speakers and the all-new Acoustic Energy AE300² series speakers.

A couple of my favourite sounds at the show were the Focal Stellia headphones using the Naim Atom Headphone Edition. I had heard the Focal Stellia headphones a while ago but had forgotten how good they can sound when driven with an appropriate amplifier like the Atom.

They say, “Never meet your Heroes”…

But perhaps—well, no, not perhaps—definitely the highlight of the weekend for me was meeting the legend that is Bob Harris OBE. I’d heard he would be making an appearance on both Friday and Saturday in the Audio Note room, but Friday was far too busy for me to get away from the sales desk. I hoped that Saturday afternoon would be quieter, giving me a chance to make it up to the fourth floor in time.

Luckily, I bumped into Micky from Audio Note before the show opened on Saturday and asked when Bob would be there. “Come up about 4pm, and I’ll introduce you”, said Micky. I told the rest of the team that no matter what was happening, at 3:50pm, they had to send me away to the fourth floor!

Right on cue, 3:50pm arrived, and I made my way up to see Audio Note, where Bob was just finishing his presentation. Then, I was introduced. It was an absolute pleasure to meet the man who had shaped my love of country music through his shows over so many years. I mentioned some of my earliest memories of tracks he played that had caught my ear back in the ’90s. Naturally, he knew them well, immediately rattling off the album titles they were from—an incredible encyclopaedic brain for music and a true gent, as you’d expect.

Meeting Bob rounded off the show perfectly for me. I returned to the sales desk with the biggest smile.

The show must end…

Not long after that, the show came to a close. We served the last of our customers at the sales desk, and the monumental task of clearing the hotel of all exhibitors began. The team of porters and Audio T’s crew sprang into action. Vans and lorries queued up outside, arriving in their booked time slots for loading. Trolley after trolley of equipment poured out from the lifts into waiting vehicles with military precision. This is the incredible part of the show — unless you’ve seen it, it’s hard to believe how the team manage to clear the entire exhibition by 10pm. It’s just amazing. A burger and a beer in the bar, and then off to bed.

Monday morning brought the job of clearing out all the apparatus, signage, IT equipment… all the behind-the-scenes bits — and then it was time to head home. And that was it — another show, over in a blur.

On behalf of myself and Audio T, thank you to everyone who visited us at the sales desk and in our rooms. We met some lovely people, caught up with familiar faces we see every year, and had some fantastic chats about all things Hi-Fi and Home Cinema.

I’m already looking forward to the Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2026 — make a note in your diary now: Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd February 2026. See you there!

Thanks for reading

Nic - Audio T Swansea

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Couldn’t make it to the show? Don’t worry — you can still catch all the highlights! Check out our photos from The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025 here, or dive into a fantastic collection of interviews with a wide range of exhibiting brands here.

March 14, 2025

Land of the giants - Linn Klimax DSM v Naim ND555 network streamer/DACs

March 14, 2025/ Audio T Brighton/ Brighton

Linn Klimax DSM v Naim ND555...

Hello everyone, and welcome to the March blog from Audio T Brighton! For this month’s article we are going to give our full attention to a battle in the Land of the Giants - a face-off between the Linn Klimax DSM and the Naim ND555 network players.

It’s not often one gets the chance to witness a heavyweight contest like this without paying a viewer fee, so sit back and enjoy the ringside seat!

I have written at length about the Linn Selekt DSM streamer range in one of my earlier blogs and a lot of the latest Linn technology employed in the Linn Klimax DSM is used in the Linn Selekt Edition DSM, so to avoid repeating myself I’ll direct you to my blog here.

Both of these streamers sit at the top of their respective ranges, each offering something a little different. Let’s explore what they bring to the table and equip you, the listener, with the information to help you make an informed decision.

Linn Klimax DSM - all things to all men...

The Klimax DSM is Linn’s flagship digital product, offering a different approach to the Naim ND555. It functions as a streamer, DAC, and pre-amp in one, with optional AV capabilities via HDMI/eARC and USB connections for those who want added versatility. Interestingly, alongside standard Ethernet and wireless connectivity, the Klimax DSM features an SFP optical Ethernet connection — designed to minimise network-induced digital noise that can compromise sound quality. I’ve previously written in detail about the impact of Ethernet switches on reducing digital noise in an earlier blog here.

For those who value a compact design with few compromises the Linn Klimax DSM is an almost perfect product with great looks, great sound and functionality, just add a power amp. What’s not to like?

For the purpose of this blog, we’re evaluating it purely as a streamer/DAC by fixing the volume output and running it through our in-house pre/power setup — a Naim NAC 552/552 PS and Naim NAP 500DR/500PS — paired with the brilliant high-end loudspeakers, the Dynaudio Confidence 50.

A key feature of the Linn Klimax DSM is its in-house room correction DSP software, Space Optimisation. Whilst room EQ has its uses — particularly in tackling challenging spaces — we generally recommend starting with as little processing of the original signal as possible. Simple domestic items like rugs, bookcases, curtains, and plants can go a long way in managing room acoustics before resorting to more complex room correction software.

It’s a useful option to have, but since the Naim ND555 doesn’t include this technology, we’ll keep things fair by running both streamers without DSP for this comparison.

The Klimax DSM also features Linn’s proprietary Organik DAC and Utopik power supply, eliminating the need for external boxes — a definite space saver, with no discernible compromise in sound quality. It’s impressive what Linn has achieved sonically, especially given the limited internal space. The unit itself is housed in a beautifully inert case, precision-cut from a solid block of aluminium to minimise electrical and microphonic vibrational interference.

Naim ND 555 & 555PS...

The Naim ND555 network streamer, paired with the 555PS power supply (ideally two 555PS DR units), stands as Naim’s flagship digital streamer/DAC.

While the Linn Klimax DSM embraces a compact, all-in-one design with internal power supplies and filtering, Naim takes a more traditional approach, focusing on external power supplies — specifically the Naim 555PS DR. Naim’s long-standing audio philosophy revolves around using dedicated power supplies to enhance sound quality, with the extra shelf space seen as a worthwhile trade-off.

At the heart of the ND555 is Naim’s in-house 40-bit SHARC processor, employing custom filters alongside a Burr-Brown R2R ladder DAC to achieve that signature Naim “house sound.” The DR (discrete regulator) power supply ensures a stable, low-noise performance for optimal sonic results.

Naim has also undergone some design changes in recent years to align with its newer 200 and 300 Series, as well as the Uniti range. However, for those with existing Original Classic (OC) kit, there’s good news — you can still choose between the traditional green or the newer white logo for this heavyweight network player (correct as of March 2025).

Ali versus Frazier - battle of the giants...

So, in this battle of heavyweight giants — who came out on top?

It might surprise you to hear that it’s a case of ‘six of one, half a dozen of the other.’ Much like the legendary Ali vs Frazier bouts, this contest was incredibly close, with the winner ultimately coming down to personal preference — and who’s judging.

We found both players to be exceptional: the Linn Klimax DSM delivered a slightly more transparent and spacious presentation in the mids and highs, while the Naim ND555/555PS DR offered greater gravitas and rhythmic drive in the bass. We could wax lyrical about both streamers endlessly — their performance varied depending on the musical genre — and we tested them through Focal Kanta 2s, Dynaudio Confidence 50s, and ATC SCM50s. Our personal favourites shifted with each speaker and streamer combination, who was listening, and the music choice. Suffice to say, both are so impressive they need to be heard to be believed.

The final decision may come down to practicalities like rack space or system matching, with amplifier and speaker combinations playing a major role. For this comparison, the Naim ND555/555PS DR had a slight edge in synergy thanks to our use of a Naim NAC552DR pre-amp and Naim NAP500DR power amp. Unfortunately, we didn’t have a comparable Linn pre/power setup on hand, which naturally tilted things in Naim’s favour. On the other hand, until a second power supply is added to the ND555, the Linn Klimax DSM remains the more expensive option — so perhaps it’s a score draw on that front.

Ultimately, whichever you choose at this level will open your ears and stir your soul. Both players come highly recommended by us here at Audio T in Brighton.

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating — so get in touch to book a demonstration and hear for yourself.

Thanks for reading.

Ade, John and Paul - Audio T Brighton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Linn can be found at the following Audio T stores

Naim/Focal can be found at the following Audio-T stores

Dynaudio can be found at the following Audio T stores -

ATC can be found at the following Audio T stores -

March 05, 2025

Discovering Sonic Bliss with Advance Paris, Neat Acoustics, and REL at Audio T Portsmouth

March 05, 2025/ Audio T Portsmouth/ Online Store

At Audio T Portsmouth, we’re always excited to bring the finest audio equipment to life for our customers. Recently, we had the pleasure of setting up a demo that combined the powerful versatility of the Advance Paris My Connect 250, the refined elegance of Neat Acoustics Elite Classic speakers in Satin White, and the deep, rich bass of a REL T Zero subwoofer. The result? An auditory experience that left everyone in the room buzzing with excitement.

The Advance Paris My Connect 250 proved to be the perfect hub for this setup. Its sleek design, coupled with its high-quality amplification and streaming capabilities, made it an easy choice for music lovers seeking both style and substance. Whether streaming via Tidal, playing through USB, or spinning a favourite CD, it delivered consistent, warm, and detailed sound.

Paired with the Neat Acoustics Elite Classic speakers, the system came alive with exceptional clarity and balance. The satin white finish added a touch of modern sophistication, but it was their sonic performance that truly stole the show. The speakers showcased crisp highs and a lush midrange, effortlessly filling the room with vibrant, natural sound.

To complete the system, we introduced the REL T Zero subwoofer. Despite its compact size, it packs an impressive punch, seamlessly extending the low-end frequencies without overpowering the overall sound. It added just the right amount of depth and resonance, bringing music and movies to life with unparalleled precision.

advance paris my connect 250 display up-close

For the demo, we showcased a variety of tracks, including hits by Metallica and other rock legends. Songs like “Enter Sandman” and “Nothing Else Matters” highlighted the system’s ability to handle powerful riffs and intricate guitar solos with ease, while tracks from other iconic rock bands demonstrated its dynamic range and precision. Streaming via Tidal ensured high-resolution audio quality, allowing every detail to shine through. The combination of raw energy and refined sound left an unforgettable impression.

The highlight of the day was the reaction from our customers who had requested this demo. They were absolutely thrilled with how the system performed. Each component complemented the others perfectly, creating a harmonious synergy that brought out the best in every track we played. The clarity, depth, and immersive soundstage left them ecstatic, and we couldn’t agree more.

This is what we’re all about at Audio T—helping our customers find their perfect sound. If you’d like to experience the magic of a personalised demo for yourself, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Whether you're a dedicated music lover or just beginning your journey into high-fidelity sound, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Thank you for reading:

Aga, Alan, Luke - Audio T Portsmouth

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other hi-fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Advance Paris can be found at the following Audio T stores

Neat Acoustics can be found at the following Audio T stores

REL can be found at the following Audio T stores

March 04, 2025

Hi-Fi Quality At A Great Price: Three Fantastic Systems Under £2,000! (Part 3 of 3)

March 04, 2025/ Audio T Southampton/ Southampton

qobuz: proud partners with The Bristol Hi-Fi Show and audio t.

Hello, music enthusiasts! I’m Tiago from Audio T Southampton, and as some of you may know, I’ve been running a blog series exploring three different systems, each showcasing the best options for a specific source. This final instalment in the series focuses on the youngest of the three main sources – streaming. So, let’s dive in...

Massive Digital Libraries

Streaming has come a long way in the past 15 years, introducing fascinating new ways to enjoy music. Whether you're setting the mood for a house party, critically listening to a new album, or discovering fresh tracks, it offers a more convenient way for everyone to connect with music. Below are two streaming solutions I highly recommend to kick-start your journey.

First up is the latest iteration of the award-winning Bluesound Node (N132), priced at a reasonable £499*. This compact yet feature-packed streamer supports full hi-res playback and works seamlessly with Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz Connect. It even allows you to plug in a pair of headphones for a more personal listening experience. The Bluesound app is widely praised, to the extent that major Hi-Fi brands like Cyrus and Roksan have integrated it into their own streamers – a testament to its quality and ease of use.

Bluesound NOde (Photo Credit: Bluesound)

The second contender is the brilliant WiiM Ultra, coming in at £349. Despite its lower price, this streamer confidently holds its own, offering many of the same features as the Bluesound Node. It supports high-resolution audio streaming and integrates seamlessly with popular services like Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz, while also giving you access to a broader selection of lesser-known platforms.

One standout feature is its vibrant 3.5" OLED touchscreen, providing an intuitive way to browse and control playback directly from the device. This added convenience sets it apart from many competitors in its price range. The WiiM Home app is equally impressive—designed to be user-friendly and responsive, ensuring a smooth experience whether you're adjusting settings, queuing up tracks, or exploring new music.

While the WiiM Ultra is packed with features and delivers excellent performance for its price, it does fall slightly short of the Bluesound Node in terms of outright audio quality. That said, for those looking for an affordable yet highly capable streaming solution with a wealth of functionality, the WiiM Ultra remains a fantastic choice.

The wiim ultra: high quality streaming at a reasonable price! (Photo Cred: WiiM)

Crank It Up!

The next step in our journey is choosing the right amplifier. With countless options available—ranging from big and powerful to compact yet mighty—it can be overwhelming. To make things easier, I’ve narrowed it down to two excellent choices.

First up is the Leak Stereo 130, priced at £749.95*. While its vintage-inspired design may give it an old-school appearance, don’t be fooled—this amplifier is packed with modern technology. It supports full DSD and high-resolution audio, delivering a clean 45W into 8 ohms (or 65W into 4 ohms), making it a solid performer across a range of speakers.

Its minimalist design keeps things simple and reliable, ensuring you get maximum performance for your money without unnecessary frills. Whether you're streaming, spinning records, or enjoying your favourite CDs, the Leak Stereo 130 offers a fantastic blend of classic aesthetics and cutting-edge capability.

The leak stereo 130 is a beautiful amp with the walnut shell (Photo Credit: Leak Audio)

The second option is the Quad Vena II Integrated Amplifier, starting at £699.95*. There’s no denying that this amplifier is compact, but don’t let its size fool you—it punches well above its weight. Delivering 45W into 8 ohms (or 65W into 4 ohms), it has enough power to drive larger speakers with ease.

The quad vena ii comes with multiple choices for looks, including this simple grey. (Photo Credit: Quad)

Fancy Jukeboxes

The final piece of the puzzle is perhaps the most visually striking—the speakers. By this point, we’ve built a high-quality, easy-to-use streaming system, so it makes sense to pair it with speakers that are just as refined. I’ve selected two options that are both simple yet elegant.

the all-new acoustic energy ae300² are truly sublime and elegant

First up are the all-new Acoustic Energy AE300² standmount speakers, priced at £649*. Despite their compact size these speakers deliver a surprisingly big sound that can rival smaller floorstanders. With a rich, well-controlled low end, smooth vocals, and detailed highs, they offer a balanced and immersive listening experience that leaves little to be desired.

the quad s1 speakers even come with this stunning mahogany wood finish (Photo Credit: Quad)

The second option, sitting in a similar league to the Acoustic Energy speakers, is the Quad S1 standmount speakers, retailing at £549.95*. These compact speakers are seriously impressive, delivering rich, natural vocals and a clean, detailed top end thanks to their ribbon tweeter design. Despite their small size and 4" driver, they produce a surprisingly full-bodied bass response, making them a fantastic choice for those who want high-quality sound in a smaller package.

The Veins of Hi-Fi

We can’t talk about speakers without mentioning speaker cables. As previously mentioned, there’s one cable I strongly recommend to give your system the edge—the Chord Company C-ScreenX speaker cable at £11 per meter. While there are both more expensive and budget-friendly options out there, this particular range strikes an excellent balance between performance and value for money.

Chord Company C-ScreenX (Photo Credit: Chord Company)

With a recommended average length of 2.5m per pair and in-house termination available at your local Audio T, a full set will cost just £95*. It’s a small investment that can make a noticeable difference in your system’s overall performance.

Tinker Time

Now that we’ve put together what I believe is the ideal system for under £2,000, let’s explore a few simple upgrades that can further enhance your audio quality. These aren’t essential, but if you have some extra budget, they’re well worth considering.

Chord Company C-Line 2RCA-2RCA (Photo Credit: Chord Company)

First up are interconnects. As mentioned in our CD blog last month, I recommend the Chord Company C-Line 2RCA-2RCA, starting at £57.50* for a 0.5m pair. These cables help minimise interference, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed sound and an overall more enjoyable listening experience.

The second upgrade is for the streaming side of things, and while it’s not for everyone, it can make a significant difference. If you’re planning to hardwire your streamer to your router, I highly recommend the English Electric EE1 Network Isolator. Priced at £300* and including a Chord Company C-Stream Ethernet Cable. The EE1 helps reduce noise reaching your streamer, giving an improvement in sound quality you need to hear for yourself.

English Electric EE1 Network Isolator And Chord Company C-Stream Ethernet Cable (Photo Credit: Chord Company)

Finally, let’s go back to basics—adding a subwoofer. The REL TZero MK3 is an excellent starting point at £449*, allowing your system to reach deeper low-end frequencies than you might have thought possible. Despite its impressive performance, it remains compact and unobtrusive, making it easy to integrate into your setup. If you’re looking to add extra depth and impact to your music, this little box is a game-changer.

REL TZero MK3 (Photo Credit: REL Acoustics)

Conclusion

And with that, the final part of this three-part blog is complete! Each of the sources we’ve explored has its own strengths, but remember—you don’t have to limit yourself to just one. In fact, you can have as many sources as your amplifier allows, giving you the flexibility to enjoy music in different ways.

The options I’ve highlighted are just a small selection from a vast range of possibilities. The best way to find the perfect setup for you is to visit your local Audio T store, where we’ll be happy to chat and help you explore the right choices for your system.

Thank you for reading:

Tiago - Audio T Southampton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other hi-fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

*All prices, credit terms and interest rates quoted are correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change. E&OE

March 04, 2025

The Long And Winding Road Of The Upgrade Path with Cyrus Audio

March 04, 2025/ Audio T/ Cardiff

Matt from our Cardiff store is on the upgrade path once again, this time revisiting the heart of every Hi-Fi system: the amplification. And what better brand to explore than one that both Matt and the team at Audio T hold in high regard – Cyrus Audio.

The Cyrus 40 Series on Display at The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025

Many of you will have hopefully read my blogs over the years (for which I’m extremely grateful), following the many changes to my home Hi-Fi system. Some might say I’m a bit of a gearhead! Like all of us, I’m always chasing that elusive perfect Hi-Fi sound. Back in my days in the guitar business, I used to call it ‘chasing tone’—which probably explains why I own more than a few guitars...

Much like Hi-Fi enthusiasts, musicians (myself included) are always searching for that perfect sound—or tone, if you will. This pursuit leads us to explore new equipment, experiment with different combinations, and fine-tune every element of our systems, from the source to the amplification—the heart of the system—to the loudspeakers. Even the finer details, such as cables and interconnects, play their part.

Working for Audio T at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show, I had the chance—like many of you who attended—to listen to some fantastic equipment and chat with manufacturers and customers alike about different system choices and ultimate upgrades. Now, with the show behind us, I, like many of you, have been reflecting on my own Hi-Fi system and considering what’s next on the upgrade path.

In this case, my focus is on the heart of my Hi-Fi system—my amplification. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Cyrus as a brand. Nearly two years ago, I treated myself to a Cyrus Classic amp and PSX-R2 external power supply, which some of you may remember. Not long ago, I wrote a blog about my choices when it came to integrated amplifiers, where the Cyrus Classic amp came out on top.

Fast forward to last year, and our brilliant Cyrus representative, Jason Saxon—who many of you may recognise from countless Cyrus product videos or have met at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show)—visited our store to introduce us to the brand’s 40th-anniversary lineup. He even shared preview images of the new 40 series, which I was really excited about.

A couple of months later, Jason returned with demonstration models of the 40 amp, 40 power supply, 40 CD, and 40 ST Streamer. My first impressions? Saying I was impressed would be an understatement. Sonically and visually, the new 40 series surpassed even the already outstanding XR range—but for me, the real star of the show is the 40 Amp.

Home Demo Time

Almost a month ago, we received our 40 Series demonstration stock from the fantastic team at Cyrus. I seized the opportunity to take the 40 Amp home and put it through its paces. But before I dive into how this exceptional amplifier performed, let’s take a moment to talk about its specs.

Wattage and power
- x2 100W into 6 Ohms or 2X 113W into 6 Ohms with the 40 PSU

DAC
- ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M 32-bit DAC chipset.

Inputs
- x4 Analogue Inputs
- x1 Phono moving magnet Input
- x1 Digital Optical SPDIF input supporting 16/44.1K - 24/192K
- x2 Digital Coaxial inputs
- x1 Asynchronous USB-B input supporting 16/44.1K - 32/384K
- x1 HDMI eARC
DSD Formats supported up to DSD 256
DOP Supported formats up to DOP 128

Outputs
- x1 Preamp analogue output
- x1 Fixed output
- x1 3.5 Headphone output
- RJ45 socket for software updates.

Briefly digressing, while working at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show this year, I had the pleasure of meeting Cyrus Audio’s Managing Director, Nick Clarke.

Nick shared insights into all things Cyrus, including the brand’s new casework production process. He also gave me a sneak peek at another exciting addition to the 40 Series arriving this summer—the 40 PPA phono preamplifier. I can’t wait to get my hands on one when it’s released!

Right, Back In The Room!!

Now, onto the most important question—how did the new 40 Amp perform?

But before we settle in with a cup of coffee, what bands and tracks did I put it through its paces with?

Artist : Joe Walsh
Track : Rocky Mountain Way
Album : The Smoker, the Drinker, the Player You Get* (1973, Vinyl)

Artist : Temple of the Dog
Track : Wooden Jesus
Album : Temple of the Dog (1991, CD) – Although I have the 25th anniversary version, which was released in 2016.

Artist : Stone Temple Pilots
Track : Sin
Album : Core (1992, Vinyl)

Artist : Pearl Jam
Track : Fatal
Album : Lost Dogs (2003, CD)

How Did The 40 Amp Hold Up?

Starting with vinyl, I had my Rega Planar 6 and trusty Nytech CDP 122 phono stage plugged in—ready to rock. First up was the great Joe Walsh and Rocky Mountain Way, and I can honestly say I’ve never heard it sound like this before—big, open, and full of life. The 40 Amp was really flexing its muscles through my Spendor D7s. Every guitar riff and vocal felt effortless, and one detail caught me completely off guard—the snare drum at the start of the track had a natural reverb I’d never noticed before. Joe’s slide guitar solo sounded more alive, with extra attack on the strings. I even caught the odd detail of the slide knocking against a fret or two on his Les Paul Deluxe. Being a bit of a guitar nerd, I know that ‘70s Les Paul Deluxes have a distinct tone, thanks to those mini humbuckers, and the 40 Amp revealed it beautifully.

Switching to CDs, I hooked up my Cyrus CDXT Signature via coax into the 40 Amp. To say Cyrus has done a great job with the DAC section would be an understatement—the ESS Sabre DAC onboard really shines, especially with eight different filters to play with. The changes are subtle but effective, and I found Linear Phase Fast Low Ripple brought out the best overall performance in the music I was listening to.

One track that really stood out was Wooden Jesus by Temple of the Dog. Matt Cameron’s percussion at the start had incredible presence, and when Chris Cornell’s vocals kicked in, I could almost hear how close he was to the mic. But the real surprise? If you’re as keen-eared—or as much of a music nerd—as I am, you’ll know there’s a banjo buried in that track. Through the 40 Amp, it didn’t just sit in the background—it came alive.

THE CYRUS 40 AMP SAT on isoacoustic isolation pucks

It’s All In The Fine Details

The Cyrus 40 Amp doesn’t just sound incredible—it looks phenomenal too. The team at Cyrus has done a fantastic job modernising the entire 40 Series in all the right ways, and in my opinion, the build quality is absolutely spot on. The user interface is effortless to navigate, and I have to say, I love the new remote.

Now, the big question—did I take the leap to the 40 Amp?

In short, yes, I did. From the moment I first heard it in our store, I was hooked. Bringing it home only reinforced that feeling. So, I took the plunge, placed my order with Cyrus, and now it’s here, settling in nicely. In fact, I’m already diving back into my record collection, rediscovering my favourite albums.

The next question—will I upgrade again?

On the amp front, I’m very, very happy. But I do have my sights set on the rest of the 40 lineup—the power supply, CD, and Stream. Maybe even the new phono stage. As they say… watch this space!

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog!

Matt Aaron - Audio T - Cardiff

Cyrus can be found at the following Audio T stores -

February 27, 2025

Hi-Fi Quality At A Great Price: Three Fantastic Systems At Under £2,000 (Part 2 of 3)

February 27, 2025/ Audio T Southampton/ Southampton

It’s Tiago from Audio T Southampton here! Last month, I wrote a blog detailing the perfect units for your first record-playing system. As promised, this month we’ll be taking a look at the next big source: CD players. So, without further ado, let’s jump in…

The Digital Age

As with last month's blog, we’ll begin with the source component. Let’s take a look at a couple of CD players that will have you nodding along to your favourite tracks:

First up is the fantastic Marantz CD6007, priced at £349*. This player offers an excellent soundstage and plenty of detail in the top end, all without compromising on bass.

Next, we have the impressive Audiolab 6000CDT at £399.95*. This player delivers a neutral sound signature with plenty of detail, but it lacks a built-in DAC. This means you’d need an amplifier with a built-in DAC, though it’s still a phenomenal unit overall.

The Control Centre

The second piece of this Hi-Fi puzzle is the amplifier, which lets you do everything from driving your speakers to selecting your input.

For the first amplifier, I recommend the Marantz PM6007, priced at a very reasonable £359*. This amp offers great connectivity, both analogue and digital, and delivers 45wpc of power—more than enough to drive small to medium-sized speakers. Not to mention, it is the perfect counterpart to the Marantz CD6007.

Alternatively, consider the Rotel A10 Integrated Amplifier at £549*. While it has less connectivity and lacks a DAC, it compensates with its lovely warm sound and ability to drive small-to-medium speakers with ease.

Box O' Sound

To round off this simple yet impressive CD-playing system, let’s look at speakers that will bring your music to life:

The first set I’d recommend are the astounding Dynaudio Emit 10 Stand mounted Speakers, coming in at £630*. These speakers are a prime example that you don’t need big boxes to recreate a big sound. Capable of reproducing all types of music with ease, they are certainly some of the best speakers available on the market at this pricepoint.

the Dynaudio emit 10 may be small, but theY play like big speakers

Alternatively, the stellar Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 stand mounted speakers at £689* offer a bit more size but still deliver fantastic musicality with plenty of bass. They certainly punch above their weight.

Transferring Your Tunes

The final element of this blog is the cabling. For this, I’d refer to our previous blog for my recommendation. As discussed before, the Chord Company C-ScreenX speaker cable is perfect for the job, providing excellent shielding to prevent unwanted noise from interfering with your listening experience.

With an average length of 2.5m* and termination available at any Audio-T store, this speaker cable costs £95* for the pair.

Chord Company C-ScreenX speaker cable: magnificent value for money

Time to Modify

Let’s look at a couple of upgrades that will improve sound quality, starting with new interconnects for your CD player.

The matching C-Line 2RCA to 2RCA cables are a great choice, starting at £57.50* for a 0.5m pair. These will transfer the signal from your CD player to your amp, ensuring minimal distortion or noise.

Alternatively, consider introducing isolation with the IsoAcoustics zaZen I Isolation Platform, priced at £199* each. This platform absorbs vibrations before they reach your CD player, which can result in better sound quality.

If I had to make any significant changes to the lineup, I’d suggest opting for a more powerful amplifier. While both of my original recommendations are excellent, sometimes a little extra power goes a long way.

The Advance Paris X-i75 Integrated Amplifier (£750) is a fantastic choice, delivering 75W per channel into 8 ohms (or 110W into 4 ohms). With plenty of grunt, exceptional detail, and a spacious soundstage, it handles even the most demanding tracks with precision and authority.

Conclusion

And that’s the end of part two of my three-part blog. All the units I’ve mentioned are fantastic pieces of kit that stand out at their respective price points. However, there are plenty of other options to consider. By showcasing these units, I hope it gives you a better idea of what to look for when building your first system.

If you have any questions or would like advice on starting your Hi-Fi journey with a CD player-based system, don’t hesitate to pop into your local Audio T or get in touch with any of our branches.

Thank you for reading:

Tiago - Audio T Southampton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other hi-fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

*All prices, credit terms and interest rates quoted are correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change. E&OE

February 27, 2025

Audio T Cheltenham And The English Electric EE1

February 27, 2025/ Audio T Cheltenham/ Cheltenham

World-renowned for producing some of the finest hi-fi cables, interconnects, and accessories, Chord Company has revived the historic English Electric brand for a side project focused on network noise isolation. With the upcoming release of the new, higher-end EE1+, I decided to revisit the more affordable version to remind myself just what these little marvels can do.

What’s In The Box?

The English Electric EE1 is a network noise isolator designed to sit discreetly between Ethernet cables in a streaming audio or video system. According to Chord Company's marketing, it drastically reduces digital noise nasties while allowing the music signal to pass unhindered. It achieves this through common mode filtering, selectively removing low-frequency noise and filtering out high-frequency interference, all while ensuring uninterrupted data flow.

Close Up Of That Classic Logo

close up of that resurrected iconic logo

Digital signals are robust but often carry some level of noise, typically transferred from home network devices. In a hi-fi system, this can manifest as a slight muddiness or even degradation of the all-important music signal.

Bullet Points

I am a big fan of bullet points so here’s few to be going on with…

Targeted filtering reduces harmful network noise.
Galvanic isolation blocks low-frequency noise, reduces high-frequency interference, and preserves data integrity.
Compact yet powerful – easy to install and discreet in any setup.
Stackable performance – using multiple EE1 units can further enhance results.
Self-powered – converts unwanted noise into heat.
Includes an additional Ethernet cable.

Hidden in the bottom of the box is that afore mentioned ethernet cable

Big Big Train

To put the English Electric EE1 to the test, what could be more fitting than English Electric by UK prog rockers Big Big Train? I chose the track A Boy in Darkness—because it’s ace—and yes, the EE1 actually does make a difference.

The song has clear influences from early Genesis and Yes and, in true prog rock tradition, is split into three parts. Part One explores the hardships of young boys forced to work in Victorian coal mines. Part Two is an instrumental section where an organ riff anchors a dynamic interplay of guitar, organ, and flute solos, bridging past and present. Part Three connects the tragic fate of a boy lost in the mines with a modern-day warning about children suffering at the hands of those entrusted with their care.

The verse sections are eerie, ghostly, and sparse, while the choruses are powerful and emotional. The lead vocal holds a fixed note as the surrounding instruments swirl dramatically, creating a striking contrast.

Into The Node

For this experiment, the EE1 was paired with the rather lovely Bluesound Node—a superb streamer in its own right that punches well above its weight. However, with the EE1 in place, the difference was immediately noticeable. There was a palpable increase in the sense of space around individual instruments and a wider soundstage. The vocal carried more passion, and the lyrics were easier to follow. A slight harshness present without the EE1 disappeared entirely once it was reintroduced into the signal path.

Summing Up

I really enjoyed revisiting the EE1 for this blog and believe it offers a worthwhile upgrade for the money. Its impact becomes even more apparent after using it for a while—only to remove it and notice how the sound suddenly feels a little flatter and less engaging.

Thanks for reading!

Andy, Jon and Farid - Audio T Cheltenham Store.

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Chord Company and English Electric can be found at the following Audio T stores

Bluesound can be found at the following Audio T stores -

February 19, 2025

Meze Audio – Makers of Headphones That Sound as Good as They Look

February 19, 2025/ Audio T Brighton/ Brighton

Hello everyone, and welcome to the February blog from Audio T Brighton! For this month’s article we are going to move our attention over to personal listening via a now well-established headphone manufacturer, Meze Audio.

Since 2011 Meze Audio has offered stylish and well-made headphones and in recent years expanded their range to suit all budgets. Let’s have a look and listen to four headphones in their range that we’ve had a listen to - spoiler alert, we like all of them!

Yet another bit of personal history...

I seem to be getting into a habit of giving accounts of some hi-fi gear that I own or have owned and love…

Over the years I have owned many pairs of headphones but started to use “cans” for personal listening more frequently with young children in the house, both for drowning-out their noise and to avoid waking the rest of the household when listening late at night, (I’m sure many readers of this blog will recognise this scenario quite well).

The second scenario I’m about to mention is more unfortunate - headphones break all too easily, especially the plastic headbands and cable attachments. Sadly this often means consigning the headphones to the bin because repairs cannot be carried out or parts are unavailable - the green revolution hasn’t yet migrated to headphone manufacture.

After having experienced a headband crack scenario with 3 consecutive pairs of headphones (original pair and 2 replacement pairs from a manufacturer who will remain nameless!) I decided to try and find a different manufacturer who manage to make headphones that look good, sound good and can be repaired - a tough ask!

Enter Meze Audio with the Meze 99 Classics! These closed-back headphones have been a family stalwart over the years and an ideal partner for entry-level headphone setups, portable audio and gaming use, offering fine sound and respectable isolation from external noise.

User replaceable parts...

Visiting the Meze Audio website, they proudly advertise in the Accessories section the availability of user-replaceable parts, including the usual earpads, headband strap etc, but they also allow users to replace the drivers themself, if they happen to get damaged. Meze’s headphones are notable for the limited use of plastic parts in their construction and this certainly bodes well for serviceability and longevity, not to forget the aforementioned “green” recycling credentials.

Meze’s delectable range of headphones here at Audio T in Brighton...

Meze 105AER open-back...

Meze’s 105AER headphones are a new product in their range and the company’s entry-level open-back. The 105AER is one of the few models using plastic as a major material in their construction. Fortunately, the parts that benefit from non-plastic construction are used where they are most needed - in that headband. Along with other models in their range and pioneered by its use in the Meze 99 Classics, is a self-adjusting headband, allowing the user to just pop the headphones on their head and let the elasticated headband strap take up the strain. This method not only proves to be very comfortable, but its lightweight construction keeps the weight of the headphones down quite a bit and you hardly notice them on your head at all once the music starts playing.

Soundwise, these two headphones have a very different signature, with the Meze 105AER’s offering a more linear, open and refined sound - often the case when comparing open v closed headphones. The Meze 99 Classics offer a more “v-shaped” sound signature, satisfying for “bassheads” or those who need sound isolation.

Meze 109 Pro open-back...

Next in the Meze Audio headphone range are the 109 Pros. These open-back headphones, crafted from wood and metal, exude class and deliver a wonderfully open and extended sound. We found them to be a step up from the Meze 105AER, offering greater detail and openness, with good efficiency and an excellent sense of drive. They pair comfortably with portable devices, standard headphone outputs, and higher-end setups.

They also respond well to Meze Audio’s cable upgrade options - more on that later.

Meze Liric 2 closed-back...

Meze Audio’s premium closed-back headphone, the Liric 2, now comes with a revised tuning and perhaps more importantly, have an option to magnetically swap out headphone pads when they wear out, lacking in the original model. Adorned with a lovely wooden fascia, the Liric 2 are certainly more weighty than the aforementioned Meze models, but still incredibly comfortable. As one would expect for the price difference, the Meze Liric 2 are more open and refined than their closed-back juniors, the 99 Classics, but very different from the open sound of the Meze 109 Pros. However, if you want a luxuriously comfy fit, the isolation of a closed-back pair of cans, want a nice warm sound with plenty of detail, then these are a good choice.

Meze Empyrean 2 open-back...

Just below the top-of-the-range Meze Elites come the Empyrean 2. Like their closed-back siblings, the Liric 2, these have undergone a recent re-tuning & re-styling in their Mk2 guise.

The Meze Empyrean 2 employ neodymium magnets in a hybrid array to disperse sound uniformly across the whole driver diaphragm surface.

isodynamic array driver used in the liric, empyrean & elite headphones

The upshot of the use of their proprietary driver is one of outstanding linearity, detail and clarity across a wide bandwidth. We found the step forward in sound reproduction over the Meze 109 Pro was significant, with a much more mature, refined and sophisticated sound. There are similarities with the Meze Liric 2’s, but the open sound of the Meze Empyrean’s was a cut above.

Headphone cable upgrades...

One of the options on offer from Maze is the choice of a range of high quality copper or silver cables to upgrade the sound and look of their headphone range. Cables really can make a difference and they elevate the sound quality of their range of headphones significantly - the Meze 105AER, Meze 109 Pro and Meze Liric 2 all responded well to these cable upgrades with the Meze Empyrean 2 supplied with copper mini-XLR version as standard.

Copper v silver...

It’s important not to stereotype the effects of copper versus silver cable materials on sound characteristics, as there are always exceptions. However, in this case—and true to form—the Meze silver cables placed more emphasis on the upper mids and presence region, while the copper cables tended to offer a fuller, more rounded sound. In a way, they act like subtle tone controls, making them a useful tool for tailoring your headphones' sound to your preference. Both provided noticeable improvements over the stock cables supplied in the box.

Meze’s audio cuisine is geared to taste...

We’re big fans of the Meze headphone range—not only do they offer superb comfort and striking looks, but they also deliver fantastic sound and are built to last. Unlike the Greek cuisine of the same name, these are a treat you can enjoy for years to come!

Of course, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and the best way to experience them is in person. Whether you're curious about how they compare to your current headphones or looking for something new, we’d love to help. Get in touch to book a demonstration and hear the difference for yourself.

Thanks for reading

Ade, John and Paul - Audio T Brighton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Meze Audio can be found at the following Audio T stores

February 18, 2025

The new Cyrus 40 series has arrived at Manchester ahead of The Bristol Hi-Fi Show.

February 18, 2025/ Audio T Manchester/ Manchester

The brand new Cyrus 40 AMP and 40 ST streamer mark a bold step forward for the British hi-fi brand, blending cutting-edge design with the signature sonic excellence Cyrus is known for. As part of the newly launched 40 Series, this Duo arrives with a fresh aesthetic and a host of connectivity options, making it a compelling choice for hifi enthusiasts, audiophiles and modern music lovers a like.

Read on for an overview of the new kit.

Gone is the old style fascia with the Godfather chin, instead, the 40 AMP and the rest of series, sports a sleek and new aluminium enclosure with a minimalist glass front panel. It definitely exudes quality.

Connectivity & Features

Cyrus has equipped the 40 AMP with a well-rounded set of inputs, catering to both your digital and analog needs. You'll find:

Four RCA line-level inputs for traditional sources
Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage for vinyl.
USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs for streaming and media players. HDMI eARC support, so you can stick your TV in the middle of your stereo set up for those that use their living room for music and a bit of Jools Holland.

Turntable inputs are the norm nowadays,thankfully

Performance & Sound Quality from the Cyrus 40 amp.

At its core, the Cyrus 40 AMP delivers 100 watts into 6 ohms using a refined Class AB amplifier design, which is much improved over the older version. The result? A powerful yet articulate sound that maintains a perfect balance between warmth and precision.

We put our unit through its paces using CD and streaming and hasn't let us down.

The results are that the low-end is tight and controlled, and with enough depth to satisfy even the most bass-heavy tracks. The midrange is detailed enough as to allow vocals and instruments to shine with clarity. And the treble is smooth and refined, avoiding any harshness of fatigue over long periods of listening sessions.

So, whether paired with bookshelf or floor-standing speakers, the Cyrus 40 AMP exhibits an impressive sense of space, delivering an open, natural soundstage. The built-in phono stage is another strong point, offering a detailed performance for your turntable.

The Cyrus 40 ST is the other latest addition to the new 40 Series—a high-resolution streamer that is manna from heaven for serious music lovers. With the same sleek new aesthetic, extensive connectivity options, and a focus on top-end performance, the 40 ST aims to compete with some of the best network streamers on the market.

Features & Connectivity

The Cyrus 40 ST is packed with features that ensure broad compatibility with most other hi-fi brands.

Wi-Fi & Ethernet connectivity for high-quality streaming
Supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz
Native support for TIDAL Connect, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and internet radio
Roon Ready certified, allowing seamless integration with other high-end streaming devices in your home
USB, optical, and coaxial digital outputs for easy connection to DACs or amplifiers

Performance & Sound Quality of the Cyrus 40 ST Streamer.

Cyrus has long been known for delivering clean, detailed, and natural sound, and the 40 ST is no exception. This streamer handles high-resolution files with aplomb, presenting music with clarity, depth, and dynamics.

In the short time we've had the Cyrus 40 Series, it hasn't missed a beat.

The timing and rhythm of the 40 ST are particularly impressive, making it a cracking choice for listeners who appreciate detail and toe-tapping musicality. Whether you're playing jazz, classical, rock, or electronic music, the streamer delivers a balanced and engaging experience.

The fit and finish is excellent, as you can see in the images below.

That’s a quick overview of the new Cyrus 40 Series. We have four pieces available for demonstration: the 40 Amp and 40 Streamer, along with a new CD transport and a brand-new PSU (power supply unit). All are now on demo at our Manchester store.

Additionally, Cyrus will be at The Bristol Show in the Matthew Suite on the lower ground floor.

Thanks for reading.

Munir, James and Dave - Audio T Manchester

See you at The Bristol Show.!!!

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Cyrus can be found at the following Audio T stores

February 03, 2025

ARCAM'S FLAGSHIP STREAMER; THE ST25

February 03, 2025/ Audio T Swindon/ Swindon

This month, Audio T Swindon explores the latest network streamer from Arcam

A brief history of Arcam

Established in 1976, Arcam is a British manufacturer of hi-fi equipment based in Cambridgeshire. Like many renowned British hi-fi brands, its roots trace back to Cambridge University, where John Dawson and Chris Evans founded the company. Today, Arcam is part of the Harman group, alongside American speaker manufacturer JBL.

Arcam has a history of innovation, producing standout products such as a standalone NICAM tuner and the only British cassette deck to feature Dolby S.

As a personal note, my first ‘proper’ hi-fi system included an Arcam amplifier and CD player—a setup that still brings back fond memories.

The Arcam ST25 streamer

Arcam has recently unveiled its new flagship streamer, the ST25. Designed to complement the rest of the current Radia range, its soft curves and contemporary colours give it an understated elegance.

A standout feature is the front panel, which conceals a large 6.5” high-resolution display. This impressive screen provides clear playback information and vibrant artwork, remaining easy to read even from across the room.

Under the hood, the ST25 is equipped with a linear toroidal power supply—powering everything except the standby circuit—to deliver a lower noise floor. Six-layer circuit boards with a ground plane help shield sensitive components from interference, while the latest ESS Hyperstream IV DAC topology handles digital and streaming duties with precision.

The ST25 introduces an entirely new streaming platform, user interface, and app, marking a significant leap forward for Arcam. The app, in particular, has seen remarkable improvements since its initial launch, reflecting Arcam's commitment to an intuitive and user-friendly experience. The interface is clean, simple, and easy to navigate.

A remote control is also included for added convenience.

Features

The ST25 offers an impressive range of supported features, ensuring compatibility with various streaming and connectivity options. These include Airplay, Google Cast, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect, allowing you to access music effortlessly from a range of platforms. The device also supports Internet Radio, UPNP for seamless network streaming, and includes both USB input and optical and coaxial outputs for versatile connectivity. Plus, with Roon Ready integration, the ST25 ensures an exceptional, high-quality experience for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

REAR OF THE ARCAM ST25 in AUDIO T SWINDON

Sound Quality

I’ve been selling Arcam products for around 35 years, and if I were to describe Arcam’s signature sound, it would be warm and unfatiguing. The ST25 continues in this vein, offering a warm and inviting presentation while remaining capable of revealing the differences with higher-definition streams.

When playing Children’s Corner by Debussy, the treble is open yet never harsh, even on a piece that can sometimes come across as splashy or hard.

Moving on to The Wall by Pink Floyd, the bass is solid and authoritative. The vocals are superb, with the Arcam particularly excelling in the midrange—a hallmark of its performance.

Conclusion

As part of an Arcam system—or indeed any quality separates setup—the ST25 is more than worthy of an audition.

Its warm presentation is particularly suited to those who appreciate the human voice, whether male or female, and it remains entirely non-fatiguing throughout extended listening sessions.

The front panel display is a visual highlight and is, without question, the best I’ve encountered.

If you would like to arrange a demonstration, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Thank you for reading:

Jon & Andy - Audio T Swindon

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other hi-fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Arcam is available in the following stores:

February 03, 2025

The Phono Stage Is Set - Rega Aura Vs Manley Oasis - Audio T Reading

February 03, 2025/ Audio T Reading/ Reading

As we approach The Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025 we’ve been blessed to have an array of enticing high-end audio equipment coming through our Reading showroom door, all bringing about some agreeable “oohs” and “aahs” from our team as we got a first chance to feast our eyes and ears on the alluring electronics.

At the back end of 2024, the stunning Naia turntable made its in-store debut, Rega’s current flagship vinyl spinner – “ohh”. Then came the hefty Rega Aura reference moving coil (MC) phono stage, itself a top-tier offering when it comes to Rega’s, or anyone’s, phono preamplifiers. This was closely followed by an audacious Advance Paris A12 integrated amplifier, a behemoth of a unit packing 190W per channel into 8 ohms, while also bringing a plethora of inputs and outputs, a touch of tube flavouring in its pre-amp, oh and fully analogue, visually entrancing, VU meters – “aah”…

As if the above weren’t enough, our sublime sounding Spendor D7.2 floor-standing loudspeakers arrived back with us from a customer home loan, and then – seeming quite the cherry, upon the cherry, upon the cake – we were left tripping over ourselves by the arrival of another full fat, ultra high-end, moving magnet and moving coil (MM/MC) phono stage – the Manley Labs Oasis. This muscular, triode-valve phono preamp possesses a whole host of cartridge loading permutations to seemingly connect up every turntable under the sun – not all at once of course, it’s not that manly ;) – but we certainly found ourselves wondering what the Oasis could do for our very best MM and MC cartridges, for example the Audio Note IQ3 MM, the Hana ML MC or the Rega Aphelion 2 MC and so on...

GOLIATH VS GOLIATH – PREPARING THE BATTLEFIELD

Before getting too far ahead of ourselves, whilst in possession of two colossal phono preamplifier stages circa the £4,000 pricemark, there was one big elephant in our Swallowfield demo room that really needed addressing… How would the Rega Aura and Manley Oasis sonically fare when pitted against each other? Like watching a prime Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield go at it back in the day (and not like viewing a geriatric Mike Tyson and half-his-age Jake Paul play out a testimonial farce) this seemed like a fair fight, only more epic!

Without wasting more time (like that wasted watching the aforementioned farce), we put the wonderfully engineered Rega Naia turntable – complete with Aphelion 2 MC cartridge – through both the Aura and Oasis, then hooked up these special stages to the imposing Advance Paris A12 amplifier, before connecting up the superb Spendor D7.2 speakers. The Chord Company Signature RCA analogue interconnects and Chord Company Epic X speaker cabling were our connections of choice to complete our divine audiophile chain.

ENTER THE AURA – A GLOWING REGA STAGE

With the (phono) stage set, the titanic battle began with the Rega Aura up first. If you would like to know more about the Aura’s specs, you can find them here.

Here and now, we will focus on giving our sonic interpretations… Spinning a vinyl pressing of v2.0 by modern-jazz trio GoGo Penguin, the sound on offer was immediately intricate and insightful. With the Rega Aura in place, there was an organic nature to the presentation that was immediately easy to listen to, it was unfatiguing and the longer the album played the deeper the Aura-based system pulled us into the music, effortlessly and surely.

In the busier passages of the music and when the pace of the piano, percussion and bass playing all picked up, the Rega Aura system held the presentation together without ever becoming shouty or aggressive. The outlines of instruments were drawn beautifully, leading edges of strings and drum strikes were on the softer side, and the while the performance seemed to take place in a big space, there was seemingly lower airiness to the presentation which allowed each performer to be identified neatly and precisely within the soundstage.

Moving to a more obscure, but excellent electronic compilation – Itria Vol. 3 on the Milan based Polifonic label – the rhythmic drive of the Aura-based system came to the fore. The propulsive synth-lines within the opening track had a warm and plummy texture to them, again soft and analogue feeling in their delivery, but not lacking in body, weight or speed. The insight on offer from the Rega Aura driven system made it easy to earlier detect where every electronic warp effect and ambient drone elevation was starting in the mix. Tonally, the presentation from both albums felt organic and believable at all times without overly embellishing any aspects. A strong showing from the Aura… “aah”.

INTO AN OASIS – A MORE MANLEY ESCAPE

Manley Oasis Phono Stage (Photo credit: Manley)

Given how polished the performance was with the Rega Aura, it was going to take something quite special from the Manley Oasis if it were to steer clear of any stage freight. But from just a quick glance at Manley Laboratories portfolio, the signs were promising as, despite weighing in at circa £4,000, the Oasis isn’t even the highest offering in Manley’s phono preamplifier range. Those more familiar with Manley will recognise them as a high-end pro-audio equipment manufacturer, but from the very first bar of GoGo Penguin’s v2.0, it was clear that, in the Oasis, the sound-smiths at Manley have some serious hi-fi chops…

Straight out of the gate, our same system with the Manley Oasis in place of the Rega Aura presented with liveness and a room-filling ability. The GoGo Penguin jazz trio performed with high energy and intensity, with each of the instruments drawn with a sharp outline, though not so sharp as to be gnawing or grating. Drum strikes and bass plucks were on the firmer and more palpable side and the overall sense during listening was of a performance powering out in a big space, with plenty of air around each of the performers, though with no lack of spatial imaging within the stage. The Oasis-based system didn’t gently pull us into the recording, from the start we were already a part of it.

Whilst playing the electronic soundscapes residing on Itria Vol. 3 by Polifonic, the individual synth-lines were presented with real bite and delineation via the Manley Oasis, perhaps letting go of a slither of the rhythmic flow within the opening track to, instead, place more emphasis on the texture and form of the synths. All of this was noticeable while the track continued to power through with weight and gusto. There was neutrality on show with the Oasis system, with only a gentle leaning towards warmth but not tipping too far. The high amount of detail on offer made it a sinch to detect all of the shades within the warbling sound effects and there was definitely a sense of zing and expression from the system… An equally strong audition from the Oasis… “ooh”.

AURA OR OASIS? – THE STAGE IS ALL YOURS

Whether like us you “ooh” towards the Oasis or “aah” towards the Aura, it’s very clear that when it comes to class-leading phono stages the Manley Oasis and Rega Aura are both spectacular, high-performance heavyweights, each perhaps owning its side of the same glittering gold coin. Each has its own unique sonic seasoning and individual take on presenting the audio signal. But among many positive attributes, what the Aura and Oasis have in common is their ultra-high ability to resolve and project a musical picture with cohesion, transparency and entirety.

Both phono preamplifiers are built to an exceptionally high standard and come equipped with a wide gamut of capacitive and resistive load settings, ensuring highly precise matching to pretty much any cartridge. It’s almost impossible to pick between these titans… however, aside from the sonic differences that we have shared, the following may help with making a distinction between the two...

Team Oasis…

You might be a “Manley fanley” if you desire a phono preamp that a) is suited to both mm and mc cartridges, b) is tube-based with a nicely judged valve tuning, c) has a clean front fascia with dip-switch adjustment at the rear for cartridge matching, and d) has an input and output that is unbalanced.

Team Aura...

You may be a “Rega beaver” if you desire a phono preamp that a) is suited to mc cartridges only, b) is solid-state with a smooth and even characteristic, c) has adjustment dials on the front fascia for cartridge matching, d) has an unbalanced input and output, and a balanced output, e) has a mono switch for listening to mono recordings via a stereo cartridge.

If you are interested in a high-end, highly revealing phono stage that can wring every last musical drop from your turntable setup, please do give us a call or pop in to see us. Whatever your query, or whatever criteria you may have, we are always delighted to help budding enthusiasts and seasoned audiophiles alike to progress on their hi-fi and home cinema journey.

Thank you for reading.

Rishi, Gareth & Dan – Audio T Reading

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Rega can be found at the following Audio T stores

Manley can be found at the following Audio T stores

READING

A BIT ABOUT OUR NEW STORE

Our new Swallowfield store is accessible via the 600 bus route from Reading town centre and is very easy to reach by road with the A33, M3 and M4 all nearby. On arrival you’ll find ample free parking right on our doorstep, and our showroom and demo rooms are all on ground level.

The picturesque surroundings here provide many places to enjoy a countryside walk, a riverside stroll, or a picnic. There are local sites of interest to explore such as the Blackwater River, Wellington Country Park, Siren Craft Brewery and a host of cute village pubs with gardens. So when you come to see us, why not make a fun day of it?

January 31, 2025

Audio T Swansea and the ATC SCM40 (Passive) loudspeakers.

January 31, 2025/ Audio T Swansea/ Swansea

The Acoustic Transducer Company, or ATC as they are better known, has been a stalwart of the studio monitoring scene for five decades. Founded in 1974 by Billy Woodman to manufacture custom drive units for the professional audio industry, ATC quickly made its mark with a 12″ bass driver—a design capable of handling more power and producing less distortion at a higher sound pressure level than any other unit on the market at the time.

In 1976, ATC introduced a groundbreaking soft-dome midrange driver, which delivered a wider bandwidth, more uniform dispersion, and significantly lower distortion than was previously thought possible.

The following decade saw the launch of complete speaker systems, alongside further versions of high-power PA drive units supplied in OEM form to leading manufacturers and performers—early customers included Pink Floyd and Supertramp. Today, ATC speakers can be found in prestigious venues such as the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Festival Hall, and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.

Having established a market for reference-quality, precision-made monitors, ATC went on to develop a succession of smaller loudspeakers, ranging from the compact SCM7s through to the 10s and 20s. Available in both active and passive versions, these models brought ATC’s renowned performance and reliability into the music lover’s home.

In 1996, ATC launched its first stand-alone high-performance electronics. The SCA2 preamplifier and SPA2-150 power amplifier (later joined by the SIA2-150) were built in line with ATC’s philosophy, achieving performance figures that remain impressive to this day. The latest versions continue to deliver outstanding precision and musicality and come highly recommended.

ATC continues to design, engineer, and manufacture all of its drive units at its factory in Stroud, Gloucestershire.

Whilst all that history is reassuring, it was our own overwhelmingly positive experience with ATC products that made us eager to become ATC stockists. The ever-helpful Dave S at ATC has been incredibly generous in lending us various models of active and passive speakers over the past 12 months—from the modest to the comedy-double-take priced—allowing us to get a real feel for the ATC family sound and the company’s design philosophy. His patience has paid off.

Whilst we’ve been happily evaluating the ATC range (keep it to yourself, but Audio T literally pays us to listen to music), our customers have also been introduced to the ATC family sound—and their response has been overwhelmingly positive. This may or may not have influenced our decision.

We’ve started with a pair of rockin’ black stand-mount models—the SCM11s at £1,650—alongside these handsome, cherry-veneered floorstanders, the SCM40s at £4,750, which are a firm favourite.

Standing just under a metre tall and 37cm wide, with elegantly curved cabinet sides, they’re far from imposing in the average British sitting room—one of the many reasons for their appeal.

If we’re being honest, while we like to tell ourselves that audio performance is all that matters, sneaking a pair of 2m-high aluminium horns past our ‘significant other’ and into the lounge is always going to be an uphill battle.

The grilles are particularly unusual in that they’re barely visible at all. Typically, grilles obscure the loudspeaker drivers—but I rather like this approach!

THOSE TRICK GRILLES - PROTECT BUT DON’T OBSCURE.

Manoeuvring their 31kg weight around the room to find the ideal position had us reaching for the teapot—giving our Chord Electronics amplifier time to push some electrons through them and begin the running-in process. It didn’t take long. By the time we’d finished our tea, it was already clear how open and revealing the SCM40s were going to be, even if they did sound rather forward at first!

LINN SELEKT STREAMER, REGA PLANAR 10 TURNTABLE, ARIA PHONO STAGE, CHORD ELECTRONICS ULTIMA 3 PRE AND ULTIMA 5 POWER AMPLIFIERS, BLACK RHODIUM CABLES AND A SOLIDSTEEL RACK.

Eighteen hours later, they’d settled in nicely—the initial boom and tizz had all but disappeared, the bass had become far more articulate, and the hard treble had softened to a far more listenable level. Another 24 hours and the SCM40s had truly shifted into top gear. The open character for which they’re so highly praised in the press was now unmistakable, as was the midrange clarity and bass purity. These are no overblown boom boxes—if it’s not on the recording, they won’t pretend that it is.

Drums are a particular highlight—clean, fast, and tight. You can hear every element of a piano—keyboard, hammers, strings, and body—while female vocals are rendered with exceptional naturalness. And as for funk bass guitar… let’s just say it’s so indecent, it’s almost NSFW.

But don’t just take my word for it—come down to Audio T Swansea and have a listen for yourself...

Thanks for reading

Nic, Adrian and Andy at Audio T Swansea

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

ATC can be found at the following Audio T stores -

January 30, 2025

Audio T Cheltenham and the Arcam Radia CD5 Compact Disc Player

January 30, 2025/ Audio T Cheltenham/ Cheltenham

I've recently noticed that it has been quite some time since any of our stores have written a blog dedicated solely to a CD player. This got me thinking—could this be a sign of the times? Is the once-mighty Compact Disc format truly in decline, or have we simply become so focused on the ever-growing popularity of vinyl and the convenience of streaming that we've ended up neglecting the good old CD player? Whatever the case, it seems only right to redress the balance. So, let’s take a closer look at the relatively new Arcam Radia CD5 and find out what all the fuss is about!

Minimalistic Simplicity

The Radia CD5 may not be the most eye-catching CD player at first glance, but over the past few weeks, I’ve come to truly appreciate its understated, minimalist design. Rather than trying to stand out with flashy aesthetics, it embraces a refined simplicity that allows it to blend seamlessly into any system. What really matters, though, is not how it looks but how it performs—and that’s where it truly shines. The more time I’ve spent with it, the more I’ve grown to admire its no-nonsense approach, focusing purely on delivering great sound without unnecessary distractions.

Sailing a Bit Close To The Edge

Arcam has been at the forefront of Compact Disc playback since the release of the Delta 70 CD player back in 1986—a groundbreaking design developed entirely in-house. Decades of expertise in crafting high-quality digital audio products have led to the creation of the CD5, a player that embodies everything Arcam has learned along the way. Every component and material has been meticulously selected, rigorously tested, and carefully refined to ensure nothing less than outstanding sound quality, staying true to Arcam’s legacy of audio excellence.

What’s Around The Back

The rear panel of the Radia CD5 is well-equipped, featuring phono outputs alongside two digital outputs, as well as a USB input for added versatility. It supports playback of CD, CD-R, and CD-RW discs, meaning you can enjoy your favourite albums or even those carefully curated mix CDs from years past. If you prefer, you can also play music directly from a USB drive, making it a truly flexible source component. For those seeking high-resolution audio playback, the CD5 has you covered, supporting FLAC and WAV files from both CDs and USB storage, ensuring exceptional sound quality.

The Secret Weapon

Hidden within the Arcam Radia CD5 is a rather special component—the ESS ES9018 DAC. You might be wondering, what exactly is that? Well, this digital-to-analogue converter is the key to the CD5’s rich and engaging sound signature. Unlike some CD players that can sound overly clinical, the Radia CD5 delivers a wonderfully warm and natural presentation—more akin to the smooth, analogue sound of vinyl. Crucially, this warmth does not come at the expense of detail or musical insight. Instead, it strikes a perfect balance, offering a highly enjoyable and immersive listening experience, particularly impressive at this price point.

Keys To Ascension 2

To really test what this little Arcam is capable of, I decided to throw on a bit of Prog Rock (who’d have guessed?)—and it doesn’t get much proggier than this! My weapon of choice was Keys to Ascension 2 by Yes, a stunning mix of live and studio recordings, both beautifully played and even more beautifully recorded. For the real test, I went straight for Close to the Edge (yes, the entire thing), paying particular attention to the I Get Up, I Get Down section. This part of the track contains what might just be the deepest, most cavernous bass ever committed to CD, a true challenge for any player. The Radia CD5 took it all in its stride, handling the monstrous bass pedal section with absolute clarity and control, never losing definition or sounding muddled. Very, very impressive for a CD player at any price—let alone one at this level!

Discipline Is Never an End in Itself, Only a Means to an End

Next, I turned to something even more rhythmically demanding: Discipline, King Crimson’s eleventh studio album and the first featuring the legendary lineup of Fripp, Levin, Bruford, and Belew. If any track could reveal a CD player’s ability to untangle complex, interwoven patterns, it’s Elephant Talk. This track feels like a natural successor to Larks’ Tongues in Aspic—tribal, hypnotic, and relentlessly intricate. Bill Bruford’s drums twist and turn through shifting time signatures, Robert Fripp’s jagged, elephantine guitar attacks collide with Tony Levin’s subterranean Chapman Stick bass runs, and somehow, it all comes together in a mesmerising sonic tapestry. The Radia CD5 handled it masterfully, presenting a soundstage that stretched from wall to wall in our demo room, making the whole performance feel utterly immersive.

Now, I know some might argue that the amplifier and speakers are doing the bulk of the work here—but I’d have to disagree. After all, your system can only ever be as good as the source feeding it, and if that’s not up to scratch, nothing further down the chain can fix it. In this case, the source is nothing short of a marvel. The Arcam Radia CD5 doesn’t just play CDs—it brings them to life.

Thanks for reading!

Andy, Jon and Farid - Audio T Cheltenham Store.

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

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Arcam is available in the following stores:

January 24, 2025

Chromey ponders iconography as the Node Icon shows off its colours.

January 24, 2025/ Audio T Manchester/ Manchester

Introducing the brand new Bluesound Node Icon Reference Streamer—the latest evolution of Bluesound’s renowned streaming platform, and it has now landed at Audio T Manchester!

With a refreshed look, encased in a sleek aluminum chassis, it features a full-colour 5” HD display that provides clear visibility of track information, album artwork and system settings. This addition enhances the user experience and makes it easier to navigate the menus.

We know you're eager to hear all about it, so join us as we take a quick look at the new flagship steamer from Bluesound.

Who are these people?

Bluesound is a Canadian audio company specialising in high-resolution, wireless, multi-room audio systems. Founded in 2013, it is part of the Lenbrook Group, which also owns other audio brands such as NAD Electronics and PSB Speakers.

The company is renowned for its BluOS software, a proprietary multi-room operating system that supports streaming of high-resolution audio (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and integrates with various streaming services like Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, and Amazon Music. Handily, BluOS also allows for seamless integration with smart home systems, voice assistants, and control apps.

Generally, Bluesound products are highly regarded for their emphasis on sound quality and compatibility with a wide range of audio ecosystems.More recently collaborating with Cyrus, Roksan and Monitor Audio, making them a popular choice among audiophiles and home audio enthusiasts.

Ok, so back to the Node Icon Reference Streamer…

Offering a plethora of connectivity options, on the input side we have HDMI eARC, optical (TOS), analog (RCA), and USB-C inputs. Output connectivity options are comprehensive too, including a true balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA output, digital outputs are obtained via optical and USB.

It also has a subwoofer output which works via single RCA, and even lets you connect to the Bluesound Pulse subwoofer wirelessly. Talking of which, “over the airway support” comes courtesy of Apple AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth for wireless streaming.

Still looking for a route back to 1977 chromey? , THX it may well be, but not this time lad.

The Tomlinson Holman Experiment?

Now, here's an interesting one, there are two THX AAA enabled headphone outputs, Yes, that's right, the famous THX sound format created by Lucasfilm for cinema back in 1977. Now operating more like an audio electronics company that makes THX tuned digital boards and cables for the home cinema and hifi industry. And in this instance, low noise and low distortion are the key benefits for the Node Icon. Both sockets have an input detector and it is possible to use both outputs simultaneously, however the best performance is to be expected with only one pair of headphones connected at a time.

Dirac!

Another feature that sets the Icon apart and showcases its exceptional audio credentials is Dirac Live. For those unfamiliar, Dirac Live is a sophisticated room correction and audio optimisation software designed to elevate the sound quality of home cinemas, studio setups, and other audio systems. Developed by Swedish audio technology company Dirac, it employs advanced algorithms to analyse and correct room acoustics, speaker placement, and other factors that impact audio performance. It's a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall listening experience.

Screen Time!

The 5” display screen is a fantastic upgrade, offering immediate access to playback information without the need to rely solely on external devices like a mobile or tablet. The BluOS operating system remains impressively robust, and its streaming capabilities support a wide range of services, including Amazon Music, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz, and Tidal, ensuring seamless access to your favourite music.

Sound Quality.

At its core, the Node Icon boasts a dual-mono DAC design with two ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DACs, delivering exceptional dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. This setup ensures crystal-clear, detailed, and dynamic sound reproduction. Adding to this is the inclusion of THX-certified headphone amplifiers, which provide remarkably low noise and distortion-free listening through quality headphones—an upgrade that makes for an outstanding headphone experience, in our humble opinion.

The dual DAC chips bring a balanced design that gives the Node Icon an openness and clarity, noticeably elevating it above the standard Node. The internal DAC of the Icon delivers significant improvements, offering more refined and nuanced audio performance.

Another standout feature is its support for DSD playback. For those with a library of high-resolution audio formats, the Node Icon has you covered.

In short, it ticks all the boxes, making it a superb choice for any music enthusiast!

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating—or in this case, the listening! While the specs and features of the Bluesound Node Icon are undoubtedly impressive on paper, the real magic lies in experiencing its performance firsthand. That's why we invite you to get in touch with us at Audio T Manchester to book a personalised demonstration. We’d be delighted to guide you through the Node Icon's remarkable features. Contact us today to arrange your visit, and discover how the Node Icon can transform your listening experience!

Thanks for reading

Munir, James and Dave - Audio T Manchester

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

If you’ve enjoyed this, why not go ahead and read some more of our other blogs, and be sure to follow us on our social media channels below…

Bluesound can be found at the following Audio T stores -

Audio T Blogs

Specifications

The Proof is in the Pudding

Connectivity

Construction

Comparison with the Arc

Conclusion

A Powerhouse in a Slimline Form Factor

Are There Any Compromises?

User Experience: A Digital-First Approach

Sound Quality: Performance Beyond Expectation

A Crossover Product with Broad Appeal

Final Thoughts

Out With The Old…

…In With The New

“I Like Your Top”

“Bottom’s Quite Nice Too”

History And Science Fiction

No Fluke

The Best Just Got Better

The Bit At The End

Behind the scenes

It is time…

Some personal highlights…

They say, “Never meet your Heroes”…

The show must end…

Linn Klimax DSM v Naim ND555...

Linn Klimax DSM - all things to all men...

Naim ND 555 & 555PS...

Ali versus Frazier - battle of the giants...

Home Demo Time

Right, Back In The Room!!

How Did The 40 Amp Hold Up?

It’s All In The Fine Details

What’s In The Box?

Close Up Of That Classic Logo

Bullet Points

Big Big Train

Into The Node

Summing Up

Yet another bit of personal history...

User replaceable parts...

Meze’s delectable range of headphones here at Audio T in Brighton...

Meze 105AER open-back...

Meze 109 Pro open-back...

Meze Liric 2 closed-back...

Meze Empyrean 2 open-back...

Headphone cable upgrades...

Copper v silver...

Meze’s audio cuisine is geared to taste...

Connectivity & Features

Performance & Sound Quality from the Cyrus 40 amp.

Features & Connectivity

Performance & Sound Quality of the Cyrus 40 ST Streamer.

A brief history of Arcam

The Arcam ST25 streamer

Features

Sound Quality

Conclusion

Minimalistic Simplicity

Sailing a Bit Close To The Edge

What’s Around The Back

The Secret Weapon

Keys To Ascension 2

Discipline Is Never an End in Itself, Only a Means to an End

Who are these people?

The Tomlinson Holman Experiment?

Dirac!

Screen Time!

Sound Quality.

Audio T

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