FiiO Jade Audio LEVEL
FiiO debuts Jade Audio LEVEL 1 desktop amplifier
The compact high-resolution power amplifier debuted at High End Vienna 2026. It is specified for up to 2×300W output and uses a Texas Instruments TPA3255 amplifier chip. The LEVEL 1 is priced at $139 and is available through FiiO's AliExpress Official Store.
FiiO debuted the Jade Audio LEVEL 1 desktop power amplifier at High End Vienna 2026. The compact high-resolution amplifier is specified for up to 2×300W output and is priced at $139. It is available through FiiO's AliExpress Official Store.
The LEVEL 1 is built around a Texas Instruments TPA3255 amplifier chip and uses TI PurePath Ultra-HD technology. Its output is specified at 240W + 240W into 4 ohms at under 1% THD+N, or 135W + 135W into 8 ohms at under 1% THD+N. The amplifier also uses a six-layer immersion gold thick copper PCB and capacitors imported from Germany and Japan.
Input options cover line, coaxial, USB and Bluetooth 6.0. The USB input supports up to 24-bit/96kHz PCM, and the coaxial digital input supports up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM. Bluetooth playback includes LDAC support. Outputs include a dedicated subwoofer connection and a PRE output for system expansion.
The amplifier is positioned for desktop systems, small-room loudspeaker setups, Bluetooth playback and 2.1-channel use. It has physical bass and treble adjustment, an aluminum alloy and wood chassis, and a footprint of approximately 181 × 133 × 36 mm. Weight is approximately 676 g. Finish options include black with walnut side panels and silver with maple or natural wood side panels.
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fiio
FiiO Jade Audio LEVEL 1 desktop amplifier arrives at High End Vienna
The compact desktop stereo amplifier combines a TPA3255 power stage, digital and analog inputs, Bluetooth 6.0 and a $139.99 price point.
FiiO used High End Vienna 2026 to show the Jade Audio LEVEL 1, a compact desktop stereo amplifier positioned for affordable desktop and small-room systems.
The amplifier is built around Texas Instruments' TPA3255 platform and combines RCA, USB DAC, coaxial digital and Bluetooth 6.0 inputs with line, subwoofer and speaker outputs.
FiiO lists claimed output figures up to 2 x 300 watts into 4 ohms under 10 percent THD+N, with more conservative ratings of 240W + 240W into 4 ohms and 135W + 135W into 8 ohms under 1 percent THD+N.
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Audio Group Denmark
Børresen debuts A-Series loudspeakers at High End Vienna
Audio Group Denmark presented the Børresen A-Series at High End Vienna 2026. The range comprises the A1 standmount and A2 and A3 floorstanding models. The line is positioned between Børresen’s X-Series and C-Series loudspeakers.
Audio Group Denmark has introduced Børresen’s A-Series as a new loudspeaker line between the X-Series and C-Series. The range comprises the A1 standmount and the A2 and A3 floorstanding models, presented at High End Vienna 2026. Supported announced pricing is EUR 16,000 / USD 19,000 per pair for the A2 and EUR 21,000 / USD 25,000 per pair for the A3.
The A-Series uses Børresen’s in-house 5-inch DCC5s Neo mid-bass and bass drivers. The driver construction uses an aramid honeycomb core between carbon-fiber skins. The A1 is described as a 2-way loudspeaker, while the A2 and A3 are described as 2.5-way designs.
The loudspeakers also use Børresen’s RP94 ribbon planar tweeter, described with a very low-mass aluminium-coated membrane. The supplied accounts differ on sensitivity figures, while both place the tweeter’s working range from 2.5 kHz upward. One account gives an upper frequency of 50 kHz.
The A-Series is offered in satin walnut and satin black ash finishes. The finishes and design are described as a nod to Børresen’s earlier 0-Series, without support for a replacement claim. The loudspeakers are described as designed and assembled in Aalborg, Denmark.
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Grimm Audio
Grimm Audio introduces PA1 Class AB mono-block amplifier
The PA1 is Grimm Audio’s compact mono-block power amplifier for Vienna High End 2026. The Class AB design is rated at more than 150 W into 8 ohms and uses XLR and RCA inputs with selectable 18 dB or 26 dB gain. Pricing and retail release timing have not been announced.
Grimm Audio has introduced the PA1 as its main amplifier launch for Vienna High End 2026. The PA1 is a compact Class AB mono-block power amplifier rated at more than 150 W into 8 ohms. It uses a 15 kg chassis with XLR and RCA inputs, selectable 18 dB or 26 dB gain, and dimensions of 250 x 250 x 240 mm.
The PA1 is built around a balanced design throughout and a fully symmetrical Class AB output stage. Grimm’s technical background for the amplifier centers on low crossover distortion, high bandwidth and an output section using 96 small, fast power transistors. The design also uses aluminium PCB thermal coupling and carries the Pierick Amp name within Grimm’s development background.
Vienna High End 2026 is the PA1’s public launch setting, with Grimm identifying booth and sound cabin M01 in Hall X4 for the show. Official background links the PA1 project to early amplifier prototypes used during earlier MU2 streaming DAC and preamplifier demonstrations. That history frames the PA1 as a production amplifier derived from earlier in-house demonstration work rather than a stated replacement for an existing Grimm power amplifier.
Secondary coverage lists a 200 W into 4 ohms figure, while the extracted official specifications confirm the more-than-150 W into 8 ohms rating. Pricing and retail availability remain unannounced, and no direct predecessor or same-category Grimm power-amplifier lineup position has been identified.
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darko.audio
Eversolo announces T10 streaming transport for BYO DACs
Eversolo has announced the T10 streaming transport. The product is described as a transport for systems using an external DAC. Pricing, firm availability and official specifications were not established in the research foundation.
Eversolo has announced the T10, a streaming transport intended for use with an external DAC. The product name and category identify it as a source component rather than an integrated DAC product. The available evidence supports the central point that the T10 is aimed at systems where digital-to-analogue conversion is handled elsewhere.
The announcement places the T10 in Eversolo’s streaming hardware line, but the research foundation does not establish final pricing or firm availability. It also does not provide an official specification sheet or a dedicated official product page. Those gaps limit what can be stated about connectivity, clocking, Ethernet implementation or wider system integration.
The confirmed news is therefore narrow: Eversolo has a T10 streaming transport in the pipeline, and the product is framed around bring-your-own-DAC use. Further detail on market timing, regional release plans and official technical specifications remains outside the verified evidence for this article.
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iFi GO link 2
iFi launches GO link 2 Max USB-C DAC with dual ESS chips
The GO link 2 Max is a $85 USB-C dongle DAC and headphone amp in iFi audio's GO link range. It follows a High End Vienna 2026 debut and is specified with dual ESS Sabre DACs and up to 241mW output. Android users also get iFi Nexis app functions for firmware updates, filter selection and volume limiting.
iFi audio has launched the GO link 2 Max, a USB-C dongle DAC and headphone amp in its GO link range. The $85 device follows a High End Vienna 2026 debut and uses dual ESS Sabre DACs with up to 241mW output. It is designed to turn a phone, laptop or PC into a high-resolution audio source.
The GO link 2 Max uses a pair of ESS Sabre DACs, with one DAC assigned to each audio channel. It supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256, and iFi specifies Dynamic Range Enhancement with a claimed additional 6dB of dynamic range. The iFi product listing also names S-Balanced technology and a dedicated 4.4mm balanced output.
Android support is handled through iFi Nexis, with firmware updates, filter selection and volume limiting described as Android-exclusive additional features. The launch post frames the GO link 2 Max as an evolution of iFi's USB-C dongle DAC range after its High End Vienna 2026 debut. The product page lists the GO link 2 Max at $85.00.
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iFi iDSD GR 2
iFi Audio launches $529 iDSD GR 2 portable DAC/amp
The iDSD GR 2 is a portable DAC/headphone amp positioned as the successor to the xDSD Gryphon. It is listed at $529, available for preorder, and scheduled to ship by 6 July 2026. Core features include a Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC, up to 1,513mW RMS output, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless and LDAC, K2 processing, and OLED touchscreen control.
iFi Audio has introduced the iDSD GR 2 as its next portable DAC/headphone amp. The $529 model is available for preorder and is listed to ship by 6 July 2026, with the product positioned as the successor to the xDSD Gryphon.
The iDSD GR 2 uses a Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chipset, which iFi identifies as its first DAC implementation using that part. The portable unit is rated at up to 1,513mW RMS output, a figure described in the launch evidence as 50 percent more headphone drive than the xDSD Gryphon.
Wireless support is built around Bluetooth 5.4, with aptX Lossless and LDAC included among the codec options. The GR 2 also includes JVCKENWOOD K2HD Technology and K2 processing, bringing that processing path into iFi's new portable DAC/amp.
Control is handled through a capacitive colour OLED touchscreen interface. Secondary launch coverage also lists broader launch pricing of £529, $529 USD, €549 and $799 CAD, while the official product page gives the $529 preorder price and shipping timing.
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Canor Audio Verto D3
Canor introduces Verto D3 DAC and Asterion V3 phono
The Verto D3 and Asterion V3 join Canor’s Performance Line as tube-based source components. Official product pages confirm the DAC’s dual-mono discrete architecture and the phono stage’s MM and MC cartridge support. Secondary coverage ties both models to a High End Vienna 2026 debut.
Canor has introduced the Verto D3 tube DAC and Asterion V3 tube phono preamplifier as new Performance Line components. The Verto D3 is a high-end tube DAC with a full dual-mono discrete architecture. The Asterion V3 is a tube phono preamplifier for MM and MC cartridges with RCA and XLR input support.
The Verto D3 uses two ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC chips and a fully tube-based output stage built around four E88CC tubes operating in pure Class A. Its official specification includes PCM playback up to 768 kHz and native DSD support up to DSD512. The model sits in Canor’s Performance Line alongside the Asterion V3, with secondary coverage linking both products to a High End Vienna 2026 debut.
The Asterion V3 uses a Lundahl step-up transformer for MC inputs and specifies 46 dB gain for MM cartridges and 70 dB gain for MC cartridges. Its input provision covers both RCA and XLR connections, placing the model around balanced and single-ended analogue sources. Secondary coverage describes the Verto D3 and Asterion V3 as replacements for the earlier DAC 2.10 and PH 2.10 models, while Canor’s official pages confirm the new products’ identities and core technical details.
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Audio-Technica AT-MCD1 Flagship MC
Audio-Technica launches $11,000 AT-MCD1 cartridge
The AT-MCD1 is a flagship iron-core dual moving-coil phono cartridge listed at $11,000 in the U.S. Its unified Shibata stylus and 0.22 mm square cantilever are formed from a single lab-grown diamond. Launch coverage lists 4 June 2026 availability through selected retailers.
Audio-Technica has launched the AT-MCD1 as its flagship iron-core moving-coil phono cartridge. The dual moving-coil stereo cartridge is listed at $11,000 in the U.S. and uses a unified Shibata stylus and 0.22 mm square diamond cantilever formed from a single lab-grown diamond.
The cartridge’s stylus and cantilever construction is the central engineering feature in the AT-MCD1. The one-piece lab-grown diamond assembly pairs a Shibata stylus with a 0.22 mm square diamond cantilever, a structure carried in Audio-Technica’s flagship iron-core moving-coil design.
The AT-MCD1 uses dual moving coils and PCOCC coil wire. Two independent coils are positioned at the cantilever fulcrum, while the body combines a precision-machined titanium housing, aluminum base and elastomer undercover for resonance control.
Audio-Technica developed the AT-MCD1 to surpass the limited-edition AT-MC2022 60th-anniversary cartridge. The SEA manufacturer news page carries a 4 June 2026 publication date and lists regional retail pricing at SGD$14,699.
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Lithe Audio
Lithe Audio launches PRO PoE Bolt-On for Pro Series speakers
The module lets compatible Pro Series ceiling speakers carry power and network data over a single CAT cable using PoE++ and IEEE 802.3bt. Lithe Audio lists official UK pricing at £99.99 including VAT. The product is positioned for professional and commercial installation contexts.
Lithe Audio has launched the PRO PoE Bolt-On module for compatible Pro Series ceiling speakers. The accessory enables power and network data to run over a single CAT cable using PoE++ and IEEE 802.3bt. Lithe Audio lists the official UK RRP at £99.99 including VAT, or £83.33 ex VAT.
The module is designed as an add-on for Lithe Audio Pro Series ceiling speakers rather than as a standalone loudspeaker. Official product and support material describe single-cable power and data delivery for installations that use a compatible PoE++ switch or injector. The product is intended to reduce separate mains-power and network-cabling complexity at the speaker location.
Lithe Audio positions the module for commercial and installed-audio projects, including multi-dwelling, hospitality, retail, office and high-end residential retrofit uses. Secondary trade coverage also identifies the accessory as a PoE++ Bolt-On for Lithe Audio Pro Series ceiling speakers. The official product evidence supports the UK price and the core technical positioning of the module.
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Technology eats Résumé for Breakfast
I thought the HighEnd trade show in my hometown Vienna gonna be a great moment to introduce Pure Neo to the hi-fi industry. I was so wrong. It couldn't be worse. I not even got let in to the busines part of the trade show. No reach. No known busines. No entry. The problem Elon Musk had at Berghain got me at a hi-fi trade show. Sounds funny but this is how this indusry is begging for disruption.
Michael Framer
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theabsolutesound.com
McIntosh launches MA2375 tube integrated amplifier
The MA2375 is a 2-channel all-analog vacuum tube integrated amplifier and McIntosh's first tube integrated model in over a decade. It combines a tube preamplifier and tube power amplifier in one chassis, with 75 watts per channel. Availability began 3 June 2026 through authorized McIntosh dealers.
McIntosh has introduced the MA2375, a 2-channel vacuum tube integrated amplifier built around an all-analog signal path. The new model combines a vacuum tube preamplifier and vacuum tube power amplifier in a single chassis, with rated output of 75 watts per channel. It is McIntosh's first vacuum tube integrated amplifier in over a decade.
The amplifier uses McIntosh Unity Coupled Circuit output transformers and supports 4-, 8-, and 16-ohm loudspeakers. Its tube complement comprises four KT88 output tubes, four 12AT7 driver tubes, two 12AX7A preamp tubes, and two 12AT7 preamp tubes. The design is analog-only, with no DAC, digital input, or streaming capability.
Connectivity includes six analog inputs, split between two balanced inputs, three unbalanced inputs, and one configurable universal phono input for moving-magnet or moving-coil cartridges. Other listed features include a subwoofer output, an unbalanced variable preamp output, a 5-band analog equalizer, and a High Drive headphone amplifier with HXD. Protection and connection features include Power Guard Screen Grid Sensor, Sentry Monitor, and Solid Cinch speaker binding posts.
The closest official predecessor context is the MA2275, a McIntosh 2-channel vacuum tube integrated amplifier manufactured from 2004 to 2011 with the same 75 watts per channel output rating. In the current McIntosh integrated-amplifier lineup, the MA2375 sits among models using vacuum tube, Hybrid Drive, solid-state, and streaming architectures. Availability began 3 June 2026 through authorized McIntosh dealers.
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stereophile.com
MBL chief engineer Jürgen Reis leaves after 42 years
Jürgen Reis has left MBL after 42 years as the company’s chief engineer. Stereophile’s 3 June 2026 coverage identifies Reis as the engineer who turned the Radialstrahler speaker concept into a viable product. The same report frames the move as part of wider personnel change in high-end audio, but the supplied evidence supports only limited detail beyond Reis’s departure.
Jürgen Reis has left MBL after 42 years as the company’s chief engineer. The move removes a long-serving engineering figure from a brand closely associated with the Radialstrahler loudspeaker. Stereophile’s 3 June 2026 coverage identifies Reis as the person who developed the core Radialstrahler idea into a viable product.
The reported departure comes during MBL’s transition from MBL Akustikgeräte to MBL International. In an email to Stereophile, Reis wrote that the transition “does go differently to what I would like to see or would / can support.” He also described different views regarding the company’s legacy and future direction.
Reis’s 42-year tenure places the departure in the category of company news rather than a product update. The supplied evidence links him directly to MBL’s best-known loudspeaker technology, but it does not support new product, pricing, distribution or ownership detail for publication. The clearest confirmed point is that a central engineering figure has moved on from MBL.
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Stereophile
Stereophile joins Pray Media in AVTech acquisition
Pray Media Holdings has acquired AVTech Media Americas and its enthusiast media brands. The deal brings Stereophile, Sound & Vision, Analog Planet and Shutterbug under Keith Pray-led ownership. Stereophile and Analog Planet carry the announcement, with pt.AUDIO and PMA adding industry context.
Pray Media Holdings has acquired AVTech Media Americas, bringing Stereophile and several related enthusiast-media brands under Keith Pray-led ownership.
The acquired portfolio includes Stereophile, Sound & Vision, Analog Planet and Shutterbug. Stereophile and Analog Planet carry the acquisition announcement, while pt.AUDIO and PMA report the deal as a major change in ownership for specialist audio and enthusiast publishing.
Keith Pray is founder and president of Pray Media Holdings and has long-standing ties to the AVTech brands. The sources frame the transaction as a management-led move intended to preserve the publications while supporting digital expansion, events, commerce and new media platforms.
For the hi-fi industry, the most visible change is Stereophile moving into new ownership after decades as one of the sector’s central review and reporting outlets. Editorial continuity is part of the public framing, but the deal also places several influential audio and enthusiast titles inside a smaller owner-led media group.
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mark-levinson
Mark Levinson launches No 626 preamp and No 632 amp
The No. 600 Series adds separate stereo preamplifier and stereo power-amplifier models to the Mark Levinson range. A monaural amplifier is also listed as part of the same series, giving dealers and buyers a three-model high-end electronics line to track.
Mark Levinson has launched its No. 600 Series, led by the No. 626 stereo preamplifier and the No. 632 stereo power amplifier. The series also includes the No. 631 monaural amplifier, giving the line separate preamplifier, stereo amplifier and mono amplifier models.
The No. 626 is a dual-monaural stereo preamplifier with analogue, digital, phono and headphone facilities. The official product page positions it within the No. 600 Series and lists support documents including a quick-start guide, brochure, specification sheet and owner’s manual.
The No. 632 is the stereo power-amplifier model in the same series. Mark Levinson lists it as a fully differential, fully discrete, dual-monaural amplifier, while the No. 631 extends the range into monaural amplification.
Key specifications
No. 626 architecture | Dual-monaural stereo preamplifier |
|---|---|
DAC platform | Precision Link III with ESS Technology ES9039PRO 8-channel Hyperstream IV DAC |
Digital support | Up to 32-bit/384 kHz |
No. 626 digital inputs | AES/EBU, two coaxial RCA, two optical Toslink and asynchronous USB-C |
No. 626 analogue inputs | Two balanced XLR, three single-ended RCA and one single-ended RCA phono input with ground |
No. 626 outputs | Balanced XLR, single-ended RCA and 6.3 mm headphone output |
No. 632 architecture | Fully differential, fully discrete, dual-monaural stereo amplifier |
Amplification | Class A/AB operation |
No. 632 inputs and outputs | Two balanced XLR inputs, two unbalanced RCA inputs and four pairs of Mark Levinson Hurricane loudspeaker binding posts |
No. 632 dimensions | 8.0 x 17.9 x 20.6 inches / 202.7 x 455.0 x 522.6 mm |
No. 631 | Fully discrete monaural amplifier with Class A/AB operation and selectable high-bias mode |
Stereocheck lists recommended retail prices of €24,990 for the No. 626, €27,490 for the No. 632 and €69,980 per pair for the No. 631. The same report says Reference Sounds expects the No. 631 mono power amplifiers to follow in July.
Sources
- Stereocheck - Mark Levinson No. 626 and No. 632 Deliver Reference-Level Performance for Serious Audiophiles
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mark-levinson
Mark Levinson adds No 626 and No 632 to 600 Series
The new line extends Mark Levinson’s upper-tier separates range with a preamplifier, a stereo power amplifier and a related monaural model. It gives dealers and system builders a fresh 600 Series path built around matching control and amplification components.
Mark Levinson has added a 600 Series product family led by the № 626 stereo preamplifier and № 632 stereo amplifier. The range also includes the № 631 monaural amplifier, positioning the series as a new separates platform above single-component upgrades.
The № 626 is the control component in the line and is described by Mark Levinson as a dual-monaural preamplifier. It combines analogue source handling, digital conversion, phono input support and headphone output provision in one chassis.
The № 632 is the stereo power amplifier in the series and follows the same dual-monaural architecture. Mark Levinson describes it as fully differential and fully discrete, with the № 631 sitting alongside it as the monaural amplifier model in the family.
Key specifications
№ 626 type | Dual-monaural stereo preamplifier |
|---|---|
DAC | Precision Link III DAC using ESS Technology ES9039PRO 8-channel Hyperstream IV DAC |
Digital inputs | AES/EBU, coaxial, optical and asynchronous USB-C |
Analogue inputs | Two pairs balanced XLR, three pairs single-ended RCA and one pair RCA phono inputs with phono ground post |
Outputs | Balanced XLR outputs, single-ended RCA outputs and 6.3mm headphone output |
№ 632 type | Fully differential, fully discrete, dual-monaural stereo amplifier |
№ 632 connectivity | Two balanced XLR inputs, two unbalanced RCA inputs and four pairs of Hurricane loudspeaker binding posts |
№ 632 dimensions | 8.0 x 17.9 x 20.6 inches; 202.7 x 455.0 x 522.6 mm |
№ 631 type | 600 Series monaural amplifier |
№ 631 connectivity | One balanced XLR input, one single-ended RCA input and two pairs of Hurricane loudspeaker binding posts |
№ 631 dimensions | 20.6 x 12.0 x 20.6 inches; 522.7 x 305 x 521.9 mm |
Stereocheck lists recommended retail prices of 24,990 euros for the № 626, 27,490 euros for the № 632 and 69,980 euros per pair for the № 631. It also reports that the № 631 monaural amplifiers are expected to follow in July.
Sources
- Stereocheck - Mark Levinson No. 626 and No. 632 Deliver Reference-Level Performance for Serious Audiophiles
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svs
SVS adds Auto EQ for R|Evolution subwoofer owners
The app-based room-calibration feature is aimed at existing owners of selected SVS subwoofers, adding automated bass equalisation without a separate processor. It brings the company’s newer subwoofer platform closer to the setup workflow already common in AV receivers and room-correction systems.
SVS Auto EQ is now available for selected R|Evolution subwoofers through the SVS Subwoofer Control App. The update adds app-based automatic subwoofer calibration, giving owners a guided way to measure in-room bass response and apply equalisation from the subwoofer’s control software.
The feature is designed for the room-dependent part of subwoofer setup. It measures the listening environment, then applies correction through the app rather than requiring users to build filters manually. SVS also recommends running Auto EQ before AVR room-correction systems such as Audyssey or Dirac.
Compatibility covers SVS 3000 R|Evolution, 5000 R|Evolution and 17-Ultra R|Evolution subwoofers. The official SVS 3000 R|Evolution family includes the SB-3000 R|Evolution, PB-3000 R|Evolution and 3000 Micro R|Evolution, while the Google Play listing says the 3000 Micro R|Evolution will receive the Auto EQ upgrade soon.
Key specifications
Feature | App-based automatic subwoofer calibration and equalisation |
|---|---|
Measurement | Smartphone microphone or optional SVS Auto EQ Mic |
Listening positions | Up to eight measurement positions |
Compatibility | SVS 3000 R|Evolution, 5000 R|Evolution and 17-Ultra R|Evolution subwoofers |
App | SVS Subwoofer Control App |
The Google Play SVS app listing describes Auto EQ as a no-cost included upgrade for every SVS 3000 R|Evolution, 5000 R|Evolution and 17-Ultra R|Evolution subwoofer, with the relevant app update dated May 22, 2026. Owners need to update the SVS Subwoofer Control App and follow the guided setup process.
Sources
- Best of High End - SVS Auto EQ Room Correction Now Available for R|Evolution Subwoofers
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gold-note
Gold Note introduces DS-5.2 streaming DAC in Series 5.2
The compact digital source is positioned for systems where network playback, DAC duties and control functions need to sit in one chassis. It also extends Gold Note’s Series 5.2 line with an upgrade path through the company’s matching external power supply.
Gold Note has introduced the DS-5.2, a compact streaming DAC for its Series 5.2 range. The unit is designed as a digital source for two-channel systems, with network playback, digital conversion and system-control functions built into one chassis.
The DS-5.2 sits in the brand’s digital-source line rather than as a standalone streamer only. Its role is broader than transport duties, as the product can act as a DAC and a line-level control point in a reduced-box system.
Gold Note also positions the DS-5.2 within its wider component ecosystem. The unit can be partnered with the optional PSX-5.2 external power supply, giving owners a defined upgrade route inside the same Series 5.2 platform.
Key specifications
Type | Streaming DAC with switchable line preamplifier and volume control |
|---|---|
Streaming compatibility | Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, Spotify Lossless, AirPlay 2, MQA, Deezer and vTuner |
Format support | Network audio up to PCM 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 |
DAC chip | AKM AK4493 |
Connectivity | LAN/WLAN, Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX HD 24-bit, HDMI eARC, coaxial, optical, USB-A, USB-C and network inputs |
Outputs | Unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs |
Headphone output | 6.3mm headphone jack |
Measured performance | 20Hz-20kHz +/-0.1dB frequency response, 0.001% max THD, 125dB signal-to-noise ratio and 120dB dynamic range |
Upgrade path | Compatible with optional Gold Note PSX-5.2 external power supply |
The DS-5.2 is now listed on Gold Note’s official product page. No retail price or firm regional shipping date is included in the supplied confirmed information.
Sources
- Best of High End - Gold Note DS-5.2 – Best of High End
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sv-audio
SV-Audio launches Astrid floorstander for Vienna debut
The Danish-built model joins the company’s loudspeaker range between Gro and Fenja. Its first public showing gives High End Vienna visitors another passive floorstanding design to hear during the June show.
SV-Audio has added Astrid to its loudspeaker range, with the new floorstanding model due to make its global debut at High End Vienna 2026. The Denmark-built speaker sits between the company’s Gro and Fenja models.
Astrid is a domestic passive floorstanding loudspeaker developed and built in Denmark. Hifi Pig reports that the speaker will be shown at the Austria Center Vienna during High End Vienna 2026, where SV-Audio is listed for Sound Cabin X5-V01 and Rooms 3.65 / 3.66.
The cabinet uses a dual-chamber bass reflex layout with rear porting and a solid aluminium front baffle. The published engineering notes also refer to driver integration and time alignment as part of the design approach.
Key specifications
Type | 2-way passive floorstanding loudspeaker |
|---|---|
Design | Line-source configuration |
Drivers | Four 5-inch mid-woofers and two 1.5-inch, 38 mm tweeters |
Frequency response | 32 Hz–20 kHz ±3 dB |
Sensitivity | 90 dB ±2 dB |
Nominal impedance | 6 ohms |
Amplifier power | 25–250 watts recommended |
Room size | Up to 80 m² recommended |
Dimensions | 30 × 106 × 60 cm |
Weight | 37 kg |
Finish | Standard Satin Gloss; Standard High Gloss |
Hifi Pig reports pricing from €41,950 for Standard Satin Gloss and €44,950 for Standard High Gloss. High End Vienna 2026 is scheduled for 4–7 June 2026 at the Austria Center Vienna.
Sources
- Hifi Pig - SV-Audio Astrid Loudspeaker World Premiere At High End Vienna 2026
- HIGH END Society - Startseite - HIGH END Society
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siltech
Siltech launches Classic Legend MKII cable range
The new cable family resets an established part of Siltech’s portfolio with a lower entry point and a four-level structure. It also gives dealers and show visitors a current range to assess at High End Vienna 2026.
Siltech has introduced the Classic Legend MKII Series, a new generation of its Classic Legend cable family. The launch matters for the brand’s range because it updates the construction of an established series and adds a new entry point below the existing higher-tier models.
The lineup is organised around four ranges: 280 MKII, 380 MKII, 680 MKII and 880 MKII. The 280 Series becomes the starting point for Classic Legend MKII and replaces the former Explorer Series, moving that position in the catalogue from Explorer’s monocrystal copper conductors to Siltech’s silver-gold conductor platform.
Classic Legend MKII also updates the construction used across the family. The new generation adds carbon-based shielding and air-filled insulation, while retaining the conductor technology used in the range. Siltech’s product page positions the family across analogue, speaker, power and digital cable applications.
Key specifications
Series levels | 280 MKII, 380 MKII, 680 MKII, 880 MKII |
|---|---|
Conductors | G9 silver-gold conductors |
Shielding | Carbon-based or carbon-infused shielding |
Insulation | Advanced air-filled insulation construction |
Cable categories | Interconnects, speaker cables, power cables and digital cables |
Production | Handmade in the Netherlands |
Siltech will exhibit at High End Vienna 2026 at Austria Center Vienna, Level 2, Room 2.15. The show is scheduled for 4–7 June 2026, with Thursday and Friday assigned to trade visitors and Saturday and Sunday open to the public.
Sources
- StereoNET - Siltech Classic Legend MkII: The Next Generation of a Popular Cable Family
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