Hi-Fi Quality At A Great Price: Three Fantastic Starter Systems At Under £2,000! (Part 1 of 3)

/ Audio T Southampton/

Here at Audio T Southampton, we pride ourselves on offering a range of options for those embarking on their very first Hi-Fi journey. This three-part blog series highlights the primary source components - vinyl, CDs, and streaming - that form the foundation of a Hi-Fi system.

In this month’s blog, we’ll dive into the ideal system components for vinyl enthusiasts. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Analogue Dreamin'

We begin our series with the ultimate analogue system, featuring a turntable, amplifier, and speakers (plus speaker cables, of course). Let’s start with the heart of the setup: the turntable.

A beautiful black rega planar 3

To keep the system balanced while delivering high-quality sound, I’ve explored many turntable brands. Two standouts are Rega and Dual, offering exceptional manual and automatic options.

For a manual turntable, my top pick is the Rega Planar 2, paired with the new Nd3 Cartridge, retailing at £599*. This turntable offers a warm, rich sound and minimalist features—perfect for purists.

Rega Planar 2 - An example in the lush walnut finish

For an automatic turntable, I recommend the Dual CS 329 with the Audio Technica AT-91 Cartridge, priced at £399*. This model delivers impressive analogue sound while removing the need to manually move the tonearm -ideal if you prefer a more hands-free experience.

Dual cs 329 - Simple yet elegant, it comes with a stylish black finish.

Amplifying Your Music

Choosing an amplifier is no easy feat, but after thorough research (and perhaps too much coffee), I’ve narrowed it down to two excellent options with distinct characteristics:

The Rega IO - a small yet punchy award winning analogue amplifier, sitting at a respectable £420*. It features a dedicated MM phono input for your turntable, alongside two more analogue inputs for any other sources you may want to add in the future. In terms of power, it produces 30w per channel. This may not sound like much, however it can drive some modest sized speakers without breaking a sweat. Its warm, laid-back sound is perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Rega IO - a small but mighty giant

And for those who prefer a few more features, I’d suggest the all-new Arcam Radia A5. This full-sized amp, retailing at £749, offers 50W per channel and plenty of modern features, including Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in Hi-Fi-grade DAC for high-resolution files. With its detailed sound signature, it unveils the hidden nuances in your music, making it a versatile choice for expanding your system.

Arcam Radia A5 - modern and sleek, it’s both definitely a looker and a great sounding piece of kit.

Beautiful Boomboxes

No Hi-Fi system is complete without speakers to bring it all to life. Here are two standout options:

Dali Oberon 1 - compact & impressive.

First up is the amazing DALI Oberon 1 Stand mounted Speakers. Priced at £399*, these compact stand-mounted speakers deliver a warm yet detailed sound. Perfect for small to medium-sized rooms, they’re easy to drive and a superb choice for rounding off your system.

Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 - small size, big sound.

If you are looking for something a little... bigger, then look no further than at the Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 Floorstanding Speakers, sitting at a tidy £499.95. With a broad and lovely soundstage paired with a lovely warm detail to them, they are simply fantastic for all of your system needs and wants.

And for those wanting something in a floor stander? The Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 – For something larger, these floorstanding speakers at £499.95* offer a broad soundstage with excellent warmth and detail. They’re fantastic for creating a dynamic listening experience in larger spaces. Although it is worth noting that the Rega IO might not be the best choice for these.

Copper Wires

To tie it all together, high-quality speaker cables are essential. For either setup, I recommend the Chord Co. C-ScreenX cable cable. At £11* per metre, it offers excellent shielding and pure copper conductors.

We typically suggest a pair of 2.5m cables, terminated in-house at your local Audio T store, for £95. Custom lengths can also be arranged to suit your needs.

Adding to Perfection

REL T-zero - You’d be amazed the difference a sub makes

Finally, let’s consider some enhancements to elevate your system further.

A great addition is a subwoofer, which fills in low-end frequencies often missed by standalone speakers. The REL T-zero, priced at £449*, is a compact powerhouse that adds depth and atmosphere, transforming your listening experience with tight, punchy bass.

Other additions

If a subwoofer isn’t a feasible option but you’re still looking to upgrade your system, an external phono stage for your new turntable is an excellent alternative. While not essential, a dedicated phono stage can deliver significantly greater detail and clarity than the built-in stage of most amplifiers.

For this purpose, the Rega Fono MM Mk5 is a standout choice at £220*. Compact and affordable, it punches well above its weight and is widely regarded as one of the best moving magnet phono stages available for under £500.

The final upgrade isn’t about enhancing your system’s sound quality directly but instead adding an entirely new source: a streamer. Over the past 6 to 8 years, streaming technology has advanced significantly, establishing itself as a leading choice for music playback. Some streaming services now offer high-resolution audio files - even surpassing CD quality!

A fantastic option is the WiiM Pro, priced at just £149*. This compact yet powerful device is truly impressive, capable of delivering high-quality streaming. Beyond music playback, it also supports your favourite radio stations and integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, making it a smart addition to your home system.

One of the most affordable streamers around - WiiM Pro

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – the first instalment in our three-part blog series is complete! The items and options outlined above were carefully selected for their exceptional performance within their price brackets. Each one integrates effortlessly into a home system, delivering outstanding sound quality.

These are just a few of the many possibilities. We warmly invite you to visit one of our stores, where our team will be delighted to explore even more options tailored specifically to your needs.

Thank you for reading – stay tuned for the next chapter in your Hi-Fi journey!

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…

Rega can be found at the following Audio T stores


Dual can be found at the following Audio T stores


DALI can be found at the following Audio T stores


Wharfedale can be found at the following Audio T stores


Chord Company can be found at the following Audio T stores


REL can be found at the following Audio T stores


WiiM 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

Remarkable Ruark! The R610 console and matching Sabre-R speakers

/ Audio T Brighton/

Hello everyone, and welcome to the first blog of the New Year from Audio T Brighton! Let’s kick off 2025 with a bang by introducing some exciting new products from Ruark Audio: the Ruark R610 console, the matching Sabre-R bookshelf speakers, and the R-CD100 USB CD drive.

Since 1985, when Alan and his father, Brian Ruark, set up a small workshop in Rayleigh, Essex, to develop and manufacture loudspeakers, Ruark Audio has become synonymous with loudspeakers and more recently, smaller radio and lifestyle speaker systems, such as the R410, R1 and R1S. Always purveyors of quality kit, let’s see what the new Ruark R610 and Ruark Sabre-R speakers have to offer. I have the feeling that these offer a nice price/performance ratio in their market sector and will appeal to both the sound and aesthetics brigade. Let’s have a look...

Ruark R610 console

It’s always exciting to start the New Year with fresh new products, and this time we’re diving into the newly released Ruark R610 console and Ruark Sabre-R bookshelf speakers.

For this part of the blog, I’ll focus on the R610 console, exploring its features, sound, and functionality. But before we get to the details, let me indulge in a little background ramble!

One of the standout aspects of the new console and speakers is that they’re available to purchase separately. At first glance, this might seem like a minor detail, but Ruark’s “divide and conquer” approach could prove to be a real game-changer.

Ruark originally made a name for themselves with high-quality passive loudspeakers, but in the mid-2000s, they shifted gears into the “lifestyle” market. While their portable and lifestyle products are undeniably excellent, I always felt they left something behind when they discontinued their passive speaker range—a range that had taken a decade to perfect, earning critical acclaim and a stellar reputation along the way.

With this new console and speaker combination, Ruark has created a product that appeals to both lifestyle audio enthusiasts and hi-fi separates fans alike. It’s a clever move that bridges the gap between their heritage in loudspeaker design and their modern approach to lifestyle electronics.

If you’d like to dive deeper into Ruark Audio’s fascinating history, you can find a detailed blog I wrote about it here.

The new Ruark R610 console is available in two finishes—black or walnut—both of which are undeniably dashing! Ruark has also thoughtfully included an additional remote control, a handy feature for those whose listening chair is a little distance from their setup.

Inside the box, you’ll also find a 2 x 3m pair of beautifully braided, high-quality speaker cables, pre-terminated with banana plugs for quick and hassle-free speaker installation.

Flexible and future proof...

ruark r610 console rear inputs

The Ruark R610 console comes with the usual plethora of inputs modern digital devices often offer: Ethernet or wireless connection, DAB/FM radio, HDMI e-Arc, digital optical input, 1 x pair RCA line input/output, a MM phono stage/ground connection for your turntable and finally, a subwoofer output - as far as I can see, pretty much everything you need.

In terms of specs there isn’t much this console can’t do. Rated at 2 x 75W of Class-D amplification and with access to streaming services in abundance, the R610 really has you covered. A comprehensive list of services and specifications can be seen by clicking on the highlighted links.

R-CD100 CD drive playback option...

The rear of the Ruark R610 has an ace up its sleeve with a 5V USB-C input which cleverly allows for connection to the Ruark R-CD100 CD drive, in a nicely matching finish, especially if you buy the walnut R610.

ruark cd-drive as an optional extra

The Ruark Sabre-R bookshelf speaker...

The Ruark Sabre-R speakers mark a welcome return to form for the brand. Aesthetically matching the rest of the Ruark range, they exude class and sophistication. Of course, this would be meaningless if their sound didn’t live up to expectations—but thankfully, that’s far from the case.

The Sabre-R speakers deliver a wonderfully warm, mellifluous sound that pairs beautifully with the Ruark R610. While they may not offer the most intricate detail, they shine as musical speakers that will work seamlessly with other brands, thanks to their versatile and accommodating sonic character.

Available in two sumptuous finishes, the Ruark Sabre-R speakers will effortlessly complement most home environments.

A Ruarkably complete package...

ruark r610 console plus sabre-R speakers

There’s not much more to add about the Ruark R610 console and matching Sabre-R speakers that hasn’t already been said. Simply put, we all love them here at Audio T Brighton. If you’re looking for a perfect blend of style and sonic substance, we highly recommend this dynamic duo.

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so do get in touch to book a demonstration.

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…

Dreaming of Streaming: Is £2,000 and Above the Golden Number in the World of Streamers?

/ Audio T Cardiff/

Matt at our Cardiff store takes a closer look at the world of streaming, focusing on the £2,000 and above price bracket—often considered the higher echelon of streaming. For those eyeing a significant upgrade to the source end of their Hi-Fi systems, Matt has chosen three standout streamers that shine in this category. Let’s join him on this month’s journey to see what he’s discovered.

Where Streaming Fits Into My System

Over the past three years, my Hi-Fi system has evolved dramatically, as many of you may have noticed in my blogs. I’ve made various upgrades and additions, covering both vinyl and CD playback. Yet, one key source remains conspicuously absent: streaming.

So why haven’t I added a streamer to my setup? After all, for many, streaming is the cornerstone of a modern Hi-Fi system. As we often say, the source comes first—it’s the voice of the system, setting the tone for everything downstream.

Streaming offers unparalleled access to music, far removed from the days of flipping through records at my local shop, Spillers in Cardiff, debating whether an album was a one-track wonder or a masterpiece. Today, with platforms like Qobuz, discovering new music is effortless, and that’s a compelling reason to embrace streaming.

Why Focus on the £2,000 Bracket?

As we know, the quality of the source should match the rest of your Hi-Fi system. The £2,000 bracket marks the point where streamers begin to deliver exceptional build quality and components, including DACs and power supplies. Many models also allow for upgrades with external power supplies, much like turntables or CD players.

The Contenders

To explore this world, I’ve chosen three streamers that sit confidently in this range:

Cyrus Stream XR

cyrus stream xr


With my system already built around the latest Cyrus Classic range, the Stream XR is a natural choice for synergy. Featuring Cyrus’s second-generation QXR DAC, based on the ESS9038Q2M chipset, it offers stunning performance. Its internal power supply is another standout, delivering clean, stable power for uncompromised sound quality. The BluOS interface, developed in partnership with Bluesound, is intuitive and seamless to use.

AURALiC Vega S1

auralic s1 streamer


Next is the AURALiC Vega S1 Streaming DAC. AURALiC has long intrigued me, and the Vega S1 more than lives up to its reputation. Introduced with the Tesla G3 streaming platform, it delivers exceptional processing power and flexibility. The Lightning DS app is highly user-friendly, and the build quality is outstanding. The Vega S1 also features three DAC filters, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your preference. It’s a dream for those who love to tweak and experiment.

Naim ND5 XS 2

Naim is a name that requires no introduction, with years of experience in streaming technology. The ND5 XS 2 features a Burr-Brown DAC, offering a rich, detailed sound. Its proprietary streaming app is both reliable and intuitive, making it a joy to use. The ND5 XS 2 brings warmth and detail, making it a classic choice for discerning listeners.

The Listening Test

Now, the real fun begins! To put these streamers to the test, I used a range of music across genres:

Cyrus Stream XR

The Stream XR’s synergy with my Cyrus Classic amplifier was immediately evident. Its QXR DAC revealed intricate details, like the texture in Rory Gallagher’s guitar tone and the gravel in his voice. The BluOS interface made browsing Qobuz effortless.

Auralic Vega S1

The Vega S1’s sound was expansive, revealing layers in Big Wreck’s In Fair Light that I hadn’t noticed before. The DAC filters added flexibility, letting me tailor the sound to suit the track.

Naim ND5 XS 2

The ND5 XS 2 delivered a spacious soundstage and a beautifully warm tone. Tracks like Taree by Soundgarden highlighted its ability to balance detail with musicality, showcasing both the power and nuance of the recording.

The Verdict

All three streamers are excellent, capable of decoding HD formats up to 32-bit and offering fantastic connectivity. However, the Cyrus and Auralic models allow for external power supply upgrades, which elevate their performance but push them beyond the £2,000 budget.

In Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in Hi-Fi. Each of these streamers delivers exceptional performance, and the best choice depends on your system and preferences. Why not visit your local Audio T store and have a listen for yourself?

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

Matt - Audio T Cardiff

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

AURALiC can be found at the following Audio T stores

Cyrus 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

FIRST LOOK AT THE RUARK R610 MUSIC CONSOLE AND RUARK SABRE-R LOUDSPEAKERS

/ Audio T Swindon/

For those of us with long memories Ruark Audio was originally a manufacturer of high quality loudspeakers; indeed I fondly remember my first ‘proper’ sale (back when I first joined Audio T), which included a pair of the original Ruark Sabre as part of the customer’s system. Ruark then moved into the manufacturing of high quality radios, followed by stylish all-in-one systems. They have now gone full circle with the release of the brand new Sabre-R loudspeakers, designed to partner the all new R610 Music Console.

Ruark R610 and Ruark Sabre-r’s

Ruark R610

Instantly recognisable as a Ruark product, the design features elegant mid-century cues and those signature wooden slats, also found on the R1 MK4, R2 MK4, R410 and the flagship R810. The build quality is exceptional, with top-notch materials that exude a real sense of craftsmanship. Its modest dimensions make it easy to accommodate in various spaces.

The product is available in two stunning finishes: satin charcoal and fused walnut. Control is effortless thanks to the intuitive Roto Dial on the top panel, complemented by a matching Roto Dial remote control. Both are beautifully made, tactile, and a pleasure to use. A large, full-colour display adds to the experience by providing clear information and artwork. Power is delivered via 2 x 75 watts of Class D amplification.

RUARK R610 Music console

Connectivity is a standout feature of the R610, offering Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Bluetooth, DAB, FM, and Internet radio. It’s also compatible with UPnP music servers. Physical connections include a moving magnet turntable input, HDMI with eARC, and a USB port for the matching R-CD100 CD player. While there is no dedicated app, the system can be easily controlled via your mobile device.

Ruark Sabre-R

Ruark SABRE-R

Similar in size to the original Sabres, these speakers are impeccably finished and feature wooden strips that perfectly complement the style of the R610. It's a thoughtful design touch that integrates beautifully. These two-way speakers boast an 86dB sensitivity and a 6-ohm nominal impedance, with a frequency range of 50Hz–20kHz (+/- 3dB) in free space conditions.

Included in the package is surprisingly high-quality speaker cable—far from the budget cable you might expect to find bundled in.

While all components are available separately, it’s likely these products will often be purchased as a set. They’ve been carefully voiced to work together as a system, delivering a cohesive and harmonious performance.

So, how do they sound?

Listening to Shelby Lynne’s “Just A Little Lovin’,” the presentation is warm and non-fatiguing - a laid-back delivery that remains thoroughly engaging. Switching to “Ballad of the Runaway Horse” by Rob Wasserman and Jennifer Warnes (my go-to setup track), the system showcases excellent midrange clarity and an open treble. Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” reveals just how far speaker technology has come during my 35 years in the industry, delivering lovely, tuneful bass. The bass extension is particularly impressive, defying the compact dimensions of the speakers.

In Conclusion

At £1,899* for the system (plus £249* for the optional CD player), this package represents something of a Hi-Fi bargain. With extensive connectivity, exemplary build quality, and superb sound, it’s a standout offering.

If you’d like to experience it for yourself, please 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…

*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

Advance Paris hit the sweetspot with their keenly-priced active Bluetooth and streaming enabled AIR65 Connect speakers

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When Audio T welcomed the arrival of the Advance Paris range of hi-fi components into our stores in August it was with a flurry of excellent product reviews.

But one product was rather overlooked – Introducing the AIR65 Connect Loudspeakers.

Advance PAris AIR65 Connect speakers

Overall, the Advance Paris range offers superb value for money by combining great sound and excellent connectivity. And the AIR65 Connect speakers fit right into that Advance Paris mould.

This is a pair of compact, active (2 x 55wpc amplification is built-in) speakers retailing for £500* (£550* for the Light Oak and Walnut finishes). They can be hardwired via optical and coax to a source and come equipped with a built-in (moving magnet) phono stage.

the air65s in light oak

Just add a streamer, or a CD player and/or a turntable from, say, the excellent Rega Planar range to create a multibox hi-fi system.

Or, for an additional £100, you can buy the AIR65s with the WTX Microstream streaming unit which plugs into the back of the speakers to create an all-in-one streaming system.

the wtx miscrostream turns the air65s into streaming speakers

It is an incredibly neat and versatile solution for those who want a pair of active speakers for relatively little money.

Value

Bearing in mind that many powered hi-fi speakers can cost serious amounts of money (like the awesome ATC SCM50 ASLs) then the AIR65s are astonishing value.

Ok, comparing a speaker like the AIR65s with the SCM50 ASLs would be like comparing a cheap runaround car with a luxury motor on the grounds that both have built-in engines.

But for tight spaces and budgets the AIR65s may be just the thing.

The Bluetooth sound from the AIR65s is pretty decent and hooking my phone up to the speakers was a doddle.

Listening

When playing the intensely bassy trance track Sonic Masala by Zentura (Sacred Circuits Vol 3) the Bluetooth sound was detailed and pleasingly weighty. Switching to the same track streamed (CD-quality 16bit, 44KHz) via the Microstream from Qobuz the sound was instantly cleaner and more detailed.

Listening to the air65 connects in the portsmouth demo room

The Bluetooth presentation of Honeymoon is Over by Malia (The Garden of Eve) had plenty of attitude and did justice to the singer’s wonderful bluesey rendition. Switching to a 24bit 96KHz stream of the same song on Qobuz added significant subtlety to the performance.

Alt-J’s track Get Better (The Dream) was very nicely rendered via Bluetooth with Joe Newman’s voice well projected and with great tone. A high-res Qobuz stream cleaned up the sound significantly, lowering the noise floor and allowing more of this sparse recording to be heard.

From sparse to frenetic, You’re Gonna Miss Me (2008 Remaster) by the 13th Floor Elevators is a gloriously raucous recording (it’s mono) in which everything in the recording studio (which appeared to have all the sound deadening of a tiled bathroom) felt like it was turned up to 11.

the air65s did a good job with the 13th floor elevators (image courtesy of International artists)

On Bluetooth the AIR65s did a great job at making sense of this noisy track. A CD-quality stream from Qobuz gave everything more polish, allowing you to hear more of what was actually going on musically – although part of me actually enjoyed this runaway train of a track more in Bluetooth.

The Long Ryders track Looking for Lewis and Clark nicely showed off the rhythm that these little speakers can bring to music, with the track’s pounding drum beat and driving guitar conveyed well via Bluetooth and streaming.

Conclusion

These are cracking little powered speakers at a great price. They offer better sound than most Bluetooth speakers around the same price, not least because the connecting cable between the two allows you to place them at least two metres apart giving you decent stereo separation, something that one box solutions would struggle to match.

The connectivity is excellent. Bluetooth, streaming (with the WTX Microstream plug-in or another third party streamer), digital in and even a built-in phono pre-amp give - all of which give you lots of options.

Of course these little boxes have some limitations due both to their size and their cost. However, you could easily imagine these speakers giving many hours of fuss-free musical enjoyment in a student accommodation, studio flat, in an office or anywhere else where space is at a premium.

Thanks for reading

Alan - 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…

*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

Audio T Cheltenham And The Year 2024 In Music

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It is quite amazing how quickly yet another year has got behind us. I think that 2024 has quite probably been the best year for new releases in absolutely flippin’ ages. Possibly even since the vinyl revival began in earnest in 2006. I would just like to use up this blog time to take you through a few of my tip top favourites and hope that I may spur you on to try something new and to perhaps recommend something to me in return!

In No Particular Order

These five albums have been chosen for their power, passion and beauty. All have spent a great deal of time sat next to my Rega P7 turntable at home in my man cave ready to jump on the ceramic platter at a moments notice and all of them have come to mean a lot to me during the year. They are also of course (in that grand tradition of reality TV neutrality) in no particular order. So here we go….

All The Way From Barcelona

tarot parts one and two by magick brother and mystic sister

Ok so this first choice may be cheating a little. Barcelona based band Magick Brother And Mystic Sister released two albums during 2024. Tarot Part One arrived early on in the new year and then in December we were treated to (surprise surprise) Tarot Part Two to complete what is in effect a double concept album…. How prog rock is that? Stylistically their music is all ethereal floaty vocals with cosmic guitars, sitars, tablas, flutes, retro analogue synthesisers, and mellotrons. Here and there are littered hints of folkie experimenters Pentangle, Mike Oldfield, prime time Popol Vuh and Radio Gnome period Gong. All of this is moulded into a visionary sound that is totally their own. Spiritually uplifting, this is definitely 2024's prog rock masterpiece! Production and pressing quality is rather amazing too and all wrapped up in beautiful gatefold sleeves that when put together form a Tarot board. My copies both came with Tarot card reprints with handwritten messages from lead singer and synth wiz Eva Muntada (thanks Eva!).

the Tarot reading board created when two gatefolds come together

Flying Saucer Attack?

three quarter skies

Second on the list is the Three Quarter Skies album, which is the side project of Slowdive drummer Simon Scott. You may wince at the thought of a solo album by a drummer, but here Scott ably assisted by illusive Flying Saucer Attack main man Dave Pearce, refracts his shoegazy psychyness expertly through a lattice of glitchy drums and buzzing synths. The expected elements - voice and guitar primarily - are melted into cosmic slop that I can't help but assume Pearce, who assisted Scott with the mixing, had a rather large hand in. There are songs in here somewhere but they are reduced to a bubbling ambience of dreamy fuzziness. Particular highlights are the last two tracks on side two. “Pictures Of Roslin” where walls of distortion and feedback are wrapped around a distant drum beat and a ghostly disembodied vocal and then the majestic “In The Night” which is the most overtly Flying Saucer Attack-like and quite possibly the most mind expanding slice of dreamy psychedelia you will hear this year.

Bleak And Beautiful

lives outgrown bt beth gibbons

Next comes Lives Outgrown by Beth Gibbons. Here both the music and the sound quality are stunning. You may know Beth as the singer with genre defining trip hoppers, Portishead.

Here she collaborates with Lee Harris of TalkTalk and the resulting album is all at once eerie, spooky and well suited to the time of year. There is a little bit of Pink Floyd in here too and lyrically the album seems centered on fighting personal battles and then whatever may come after! The overall package is great too, coming in a retro effect tip-on gatefold sleeve with a studio booklet, art print and gatefold lyric sheet with pictures of Beth in blurry reflective mode.

One to file in between your Kate Bush and TalkTalk albums. As I touched upon before the sound quality of this album is amazing and the pressing is faultless. That bass thump at the end of the first track on side two “Reaching Out” is just awesome as is the bass and drum rumble on the track “Rewind” which has become one of my demonstration test pieces. The real star of the show though is just how well the vocals are recorded. There is space aplenty with a goosebump inducing palpable sense of reality As such this is the kind of album that will make your hi-fi system really sing and is one of 2024’s essential purchases.

The Return Of The Goths

the goths are back!

Then we have a bit of an unexpected one. Songs Of A Lost World. The first album in sixteen years by The Cure. In my youth I was more than a bit of a goth and a huge fan of The Cure (among others) but after sixteen years I was rather dubious about whether the world needed another Cure album and turns out that yes it does! Anyway on its release day I gave it a listen on Qobuz and thought it was OK. Played it in the car too and after a couple or three plays it was growing on me so I bought a vinyl copy and what I previously thought was fair to average at best turned into a proper trippy powerhouse full of mangled gnarly guitar riffs, long instrumental passages and songs about loss, regret and growing old and wondering what your place in the real world might be? What also struck me was just how much better this is compared to the streamed version which sounds awfully flat. First track on side two Drone:No Drone is quite possibly the best thing they have ever committed to tape…. classic Cure! There was a hint of controversy regarding which pressing to go for as there was a Miles Showell Abbey Road cut, a double 45rpm version of the same, various coloured vinyl versions and a Bernie Grundman cut on black and grey swirly vinyl. I plumped for the last one and have not been in the least bit disappointed, it sounds amazing and really brings out the powerful psychedelia. I think it’s their best since 1989’s Disintegration!

Enjoy The Mildlife

chorus by mildlife

My last choice here is a stunner both musically and sound quality wise. This one is titled Chorus and is the third studio album from Australian psychedelic jazz fusion prog dance group Mildlife. All their albums are wonderful and this one from March this year is no exception. Sinewy bass guitar and drum rhythms collide with virtuoso guitar and keyboards. Chorus is the dance of an expanding and contracting universe – its groove is forever and always, cyclical and evolving. In its most human moments, the album luxuriates in the velvety embrace of Tomas Shanahan’s bass lines, Adam Halliwell’s luminous guitar riffs, Kevin McDowell’s hushed and alluring vocals and synthesisers, Jim Rindfleish’s intricate percussive tapestries and the spiritual rhythms of regular collaborator Craig Shanahan. Swept up in the chorus, the lines between individual and ensemble disappear into a giant cosmic blur. Chorus has become one of my all time favourite hi-fi system demo albums. Just listen and marvel at that bass guitar and percussion attack on opening track Forever and the delightfully dreamy vocoder led spaced out funk groove of Return To Centaurus. If you don’t adore it you can’t be my friend!

Honourable Mentions Go To…

There have been lots of great things this year and honourable mentions must also go to Futuropaco, Goat, Flock, Mdou Moctar, Laura Marling, Blood Incantation, Opeth, Tapir, Pye Corner Audio, Jane Weaver and Hollow Drifter (phew!).

Watch Out For The Big Reveal Coming Soon…!

For my ultimate fave and number one album of 2024 watch out for my next Instagram/Facebook post coming soon!

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…

Audiolab go the whole nine yards with the 9000N

/ Audio T Brighton/

Hello everyone, and welcome to the latest article from Audio T Brighton. This month, we’re in for a streaming treat, featuring the Audiolab 9000N Streamer/DAC/Pre-amp.

Audiolab have been a well known and respected hi-fi brand since the original Audiolab 8000A integrated amplifier stormed onto the scene, designed by Philip Swift and Derek Scotland, back in 1983. The 8000A was a huge commercial success for the brand, loved both by reviewers and the public, and is still considered a design classic today.

Nowadays the Audiolab brand is owned by the IAG group and although there is an undoubted family resemblance to the amps of yore, the equipment offered today is cut from a different cloth, albeit with some sonic inheritance from the past. Let’s see what they have to offer.

Let’s get personal...

an audiolab 8000a from the mid-1980’s

It seems I've owned far too many brands of Hi-Fi in my life—this is the second blog in a row where I have a personal story to tell. At this rate, I'll have owned as many Hi-Fi brands as Pep Guardiola has had consecutive losses by the time this blog is published!

Along with one of my mates, we were both proud owners of an Audiolab 8000A integrated amplifier during the mid-eighties. I kept my Audiolab 8000A for about 10 years and during that time it offered a sterling service, being my first “serious” amplifier and my mate has kept and is still using his to this day! Equipped with tone controls and a good MM/MC phono stage, the 8000A offered a fine, crisp and neutral sound with plenty of detail, dynamics and punch. It was a pleasure to use.

Will the modern day Audiolab 9000N streamer carry on the brands fine reputation in 2024? Let’s see.

The Audiolab 9000N

the audiolab 9000N is partnered here by it’s sibling the 9000a amplifier and proac db1 speakers

The Audiolab 9000N is a streamer/DAC/preamp, available in a black or a silver finish. I have to say, in my view, that the black finish melds with the display interface of the unit more successfully, but your mileage may vary and after all, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.

9000N connectivity and app use...

The Audiolab 9000N is a fully-fledged streamer based around the technology developed by Lumin, a competitor whose experience in the digital field has been utilised by Audiolab in offering a user interface and sound characteristic commensurate with a streamer of this price class - more on that later.

The Audiolab 9000N allows standard unbalanced RCA or balanced XLR analogue output connectivity into any standard integrated amplifier or preamplifier so the Audiolab 9000N can also be used as a digital hub into an external DAC using Coaxial or Toslink SPDIF digital outputs if wished. Optionally, from within the App, users can select a fixed level for output for superior sound quality, albeit sacrificing the digital volume control the preamp section allows for convenience.

A matching integrated amplifier, like the Audiolab 9000A, enhances the unit’s flexibility while delivering a cohesive visual and sonic pairing. Here at Brighton Audio T, we regularly use the Audiolab 9000A amplifier, and it impresses with its excellent sound quality and competitive price point. For those who enjoy spinning CDs, the Audiolab 9000CDT compact disc transport is the perfect addition to complete this impressive line-up.

Inputs on offer comprise of an asynchronous USB-type B input, an Ethernet port for wired Internet streaming and a USB-type A input for attaching a memory stick or an external SSD drive music file playback.

Like all user interfaces, getting used to the Audiolab app layout and its use takes some acclimatisation. However, the app connects easily and accesses network drives and streaming services as well as most, and I found it straightforward enough after a couple of uses. The ability to configure how the app functions is common to several UPnP apps on the market and this can be done according to your own personal taste.

For a more extensive look into the operation of the Audiolab 9000N have a look at the App User Guide or the 9000N User Manual.

Sounds like it was designed in an audio lab by audio professionals...

The Audiolab 9000N is equipped with the latest ESS 9038PRO Sabre 8-channel DAC chip, using proprietary circuitry and the latest Hyperstream 2 architecture with Time Domain Jitter Elimination Technology for ultra-low distortion and unprecedented dynamic range.

Access to streaming services is comprehensive, with Qobuz, Spotify and TIDAL all being available, with local streaming from a Home server/NAS completing the package. For some audiophiles the availability of now being fully ROON Ready will elevate its appeal, especially given the ingress into the music playback market this software has now made.

Sound quality from the Audiolab 9000N is exceptional for the price class, with a very detailed and refined quality, exhibiting good width and depth in the soundstage, something which is usually the reserve of more pricey units. It sounds neutral and yet is sweet enough to avoid being too “studio like”, without the usual clinical tendencies associated with digital playback - praise indeed!

Summing-up

The Audiolab 9000N is nicely constructed and offers consumers great flexibility in streaming and digital format playback. Sonically it is at the head of its class and when suitably partnered with commensurate equipment like its siblings from the Audiolab stable, the 9000A amplifier and 9000CDT CD transport, it presents a compelling choice. The Audiolab 9000N is highly recommended!

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so do get in touch to book a demonstration.

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…

In Retrospective, Quad 33/303 Combo Hits the Nostalgia Nail on the Head.

/ Audio T Manchester/

With the arrival of the new Quad 33 Preamplifier and 303 Power Amplifier combo at Audio T Manchester, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the legacy of these iconic components and explore how the new versions honour their heritage while embracing modern advancements.

The History from Quad

The Quad 33 preamplifier, first introduced in 1967 alongside the Quad 303 power amplifier, is a vintage audio component highly regarded for its elegant design, modular construction, and smooth, musical sound. It was designed as part of Quad’s integrated system, particularly for use with the Quad ESL electrostatic speakers, making it a classic choice for audiophiles.

The original Quad 33 is visually iconic, with its compact, cube-like chassis and distinctive silver and orange finish. It embodies the minimalist, functional aesthetic of the 1960s, emphasizing ease of use and modularity.

• Controls: The front panel features rotary knobs for volume, balance, tone, and input selection, offering a clean and straightforward interface.

• Inputs and Outputs: Includes multiple DIN inputs for radio, tape, and auxiliary, along with a dedicated phono input (suitable for MM cartridges).

the original 33/303 (PHOTO CREDIT: QUAD)

The Present

The reimagined 2024 Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier bring a modern twist to the iconic 1967 models, while maintaining their classic design ethos and sound quality. Key updates include improved circuitry, contemporary connectivity options, and a retro-futuristic aesthetic, but with an even better build quality.

Seriously, the fit and finish is excellent. The Quad is just beautifully bolted together.

chromey basks in the glow of nostalgia

Design and Aesthetics

Both models retain their compact and vertical design. The Quad 33 preamp features a matte silver finish with orange accents, now LED-lit, and a modern LCD display replacing older labels. Similarly, the 303 power amplifier preserves its signature heatsink fins, updated to a more modern appearance, with ten squared-off fins instead of the original eight . Now there’s a factoid for ya!

something about those lines that take you back to 1977, be careful you don’t end up in 1967 Chromey.

Performance Upgrades a plenty.

The 2024 Quad 303 power amp, rated at 50W per channel (8 ohms), incorporates an advanced “triples” output stage and a low-noise toroidal transformer. These updates enhance thermal stability, (according to Quad) reduce distortion, and provide ample current for demanding speakers. The amplifier can also be bridged to mono, delivering 140W for more demanding speakers. We had ours playing with a pair of Spendor D7.2, in standard 50w mode, the 303 didn’t skip a beat.

no sharp edges here, silky smooth.

The 2024 Quad 33 preamp introduces a tilt control, an innovative frequency adjustment tool from another time, originally introduced with the Quad 34 in 1982, and bass and balance controls come as standard (er thank you). It also features an upgraded phono stage supporting MM/MC cartridges and a dedicated headphone amplifier, not featured on the original 33.

The 33 also retains an all-analogue design but introduces a new low-noise toroidal transformer and upgraded circuitry for better performance. It now features modern (tongue in cheek) connectivity options, including RCA, XLR, (no dins here, pardon the pun) and a phono input with adjustable gain for turntables.

Sound Quality

Both units maintain Quad’s hallmark warm and detailed sound. Improvements in clarity and dynamic range ensure they don't sound like a “pipe smoking and slippers hifi”. Staying true to the smooth character of the originals with the added sparkle of Quads more recent offerings, we may have something here that may actually start a new trend. We are quite happy to recommend the new/retro 33/303 combo to all.

We think these new updated versions of the classic Quad strike a nice balance between nostalgia and recent hi-fi tech, making them a solid choice for both lovers of the retro aesthetic and modern hi-fi users, and that's not an oxymoron.

Thanks for reading

James, Munir & 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…

Quad can be found at the following Audio T stores

Audio T Cheltenham And The New Dynaudio Contour Legacy Loudspeakers

/ Audio T Cheltenham/

Now at Audio T Cheltenham - All the way from Skanderborg in Denmark and part of the intriguingly named Heritage Collection this brand new re-working of the Contour 1.8 compact floorstanders promises to shift a few goalposts…

Nice Chunky Wooden Crates

packed in wooden crates just to make sure they arrive in perfect condition

They arrive perfectly secure in their own bespoke packaging which is reassuring and adds to that sense of anticipation when opening the sturdy wooden crate.

perfectly packaged

Fresh Out Of Their Boxes

While I’m not usually one to get excited about packaging (and those endless unboxing videos online often make me cringe), I couldn’t resist capturing the moment. I promise it won’t become a habit—honest!

fresh outta da boxes

A Little Bit Of Tech Stuff

The Contour Legacy are a two and a half way rear reflex ported design using the cutting edge tech of Dynaudio’s own top end Esotar 3 tweeter and two 180mm bass/mid range drive units as used in the Evidence range. Each Contour Legacy speaker weighs in at a fairly hefty 32.5 kg and measures just 20.8 x 35.2 x 99.5 cm (WxDxH). They are very carefully matched as a pair, in a beautiful and sustainably sourced American Walnut wood. Although outwardly they closely resemble the old Contour 1.8’s that they are based upon, they are actually very different beasts!

that solid metal base plate and super chunky binding posts / banana sockets

The spike connections to the hefty metal bases are rock-solid, providing excellent stability for the speakers. Meanwhile, the gold-plated banana sockets not only ensure a premium connection but also radiate a sense of high-quality craftsmanship that perfectly complements the overall design.

What’s Around The Back

two rear bass ports

The two rear-facing bass ports play a crucial role in the Contour Legacy's ability to deliver deep, seismic bass extension. They allow the speakers to produce a low-end response that feels powerful yet controlled, adding depth and impact to your music..

the isotar tweeter in close up

Initial Listening Tests

While the Contour Legacy might closely resemble the original Contour 1.8s - including a reproduction of the classic logo on the front - don’t let appearances fool you. Having had the chance to spend time with a pair of the original Contour 1.8s earlier this year I know they are a really good speaker. However, I can confidently say the Legacy models are in a league of their own, and easily out perform the earlier version.

One track that truly showcased their capabilities was Soothing by Laura Marling from the Semper Femina album. From the very first notes, I was struck by how jaw-dropping the bass extension was. The depth and scale felt almost unreal for a speaker of this size. What’s even more impressive is the control and definition in the low end—it’s effortlessly precise, setting a new benchmark in performance for compact floorstanders.

in situ in our dem room

Just Wow!

The Contour Legacy breezed through another of my go-to bass test tracks—Evolution 1:1 by Connect.Ohm from the album 9980. This spaced-out, psychedelic ambient classic put their capabilities on full display. What stood out wasn’t just the subterranean depth and impeccable control of the bassline but also the immense soundstage they created.

This is one of those tracks I thought I knew inside out, yet the Legacies revealed layers of detail I’d never noticed before. My listening notes summed it up with a simple, emphatic “WOW” in capital letters—a reaction I don’t jot down lightly.

And bear in mind, this was straight out of the box. Once these speakers are fully run in, they promise to deliver a genuine taste of high-end performance at a price that’s surprisingly reasonable.

I could listen to these forever!

The Bit At The End

The only downside to all of this? The Contour Legacy speakers are a limited edition, with just 1,000 pairs available worldwide—and only 52 of those allocated to the UK. They’re bound to sell out quickly, so don’t hang about if you’re tempted!

If you’d like to hear the difference these incredible Dynaudios can make to your Hi-Fi system, give us a call or visit the shop for a demo. Trust me, you’ll be absolutely blown away by how good they sound.

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…

Refurbishing an ageing Linn LP12 - Rekindling the Magic of Music

/ Audio T Portsmouth/

The late great Tom Petty isn’t best known as a philosopher but he hit on something when he said:

“Music is probably the only real magic I have encountered in my life. There’s not some trick involved with it. It’s pure and it’s real. It moves, it heals, it communicates and does all these incredible things.”

It’s why we love hi-fi - not for the equipment itself, although it can be pretty darn cool - but for the way it makes music sound and how that music makes us feel.

These feelings have incredible staying power. Most of us can recall songs from early childhood, and long after loved ones have died music has the unique ability to rekindle cherished memories in an instant.

This was especially true for Jean Vernon, who sadly lost her husband Ken, a long-standing Audio T customer. Over the years, Ken had owned many excellent hi-fi components, but his Linn LP12 turntable held a particularly special place in his heart.

After many years of use, and a little customisation, the turntable was in need of some TLC and Jean approached us at the Portsmouth store to see if it was possible to bring her late husband’s turntable back to its former glory.

Luke Ward, store manager at Portsmouth and a qualified Linn LP12 service technician took on the task of refurbishing the turntable.

The underside of Jean and Ken’s Linn turntable

“The deck had clearly enjoyed a long life,” said Luke. “So the first task was to strip down the deck to understand what was required.”

“Most obviously, the wooden frame was showing a fair bit of wear and tear so I sanded down in stages from coarse to very fine sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish. An application of linseed oil then brought out the natural grain of the wood.”

The wooden plinth was showing signs of wear and tear

“From then on it was a case of fixing and replacing some of the faulty components including the tone arm.”

Ken had preserved a box full of Linn components, including an Ittok tonearm. This allowed Luke to install the arm and rewire the turntable, restoring it to its original specification.

Stripped down to the bare wooden plinth

“It’s a lovely deck and clearly it holds many memories for Jean. It was a pleasure to work on it,” said Luke.

Jean was overjoyed to have Ken’s turntable back which looked and sounded fantastic, with all the detail and musicality that these iconic turntables are famed for.

refurbished and back to its former glory

“We bought the turntable in the 1980s,” said Jean. “We have always had record players and the house was always full of music.”

“I wanted to keep that going but the sound quality of the Linn was not what it used to be so that’s when I contacted Audio T.”

Over the years, Jean and Ken had amassed an impressive collection of albums. Playing these records again now brings joy not only to Jean but also to her children and grandchildren, creating new memories while cherishing old ones.

“I put records on almost every day and it is quite wonderful the memories that the music brings back. It makes me feel happier,” said Jean.

“Some of the records I haven’t heard in years. My children and grandchildren will say they remember certain songs from when they were young.”

“My grandson also brought a Green Day record around the other day to hear what it sounded like on the Linn.”

Going the extra mile for our customers is at the heart of everything we do at Audio T.

In the case of Jean and her late husband Ken’s turntable, it’s rewarding to know that we’ve helped to restore not just the equipment but also a little of the magic Tom Petty spoke about.

If you have a Linn turntable in need of servicing or are curious about the latest products on the market, we’d love to help. Get in touch with us today to explore your options and keep the music playing beautifully!

Thanks for reading

Alan 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…

Linn can be found at the following Audio T stores

Dyn with confidence - a closer look at the magnificent Dynaudio Confidence 50 speakers

/ Audio T Brighton/

Hello everyone, and welcome to the latest article from Audio T Brighton. This month, we’re in for a treat as we explore a touch of loudspeaker bliss, featuring a product from across the North Sea: Danish manufacturer Dynaudio.

Dynaudio has been producing loudspeakers for both domestic and professional markets for decades, and here at Audio T in Brighton, we’re proud to be a Dynaudio dealer. However, this month is something special, as we have the privilege of hosting some of Dynaudio’s high-end range of speakers. Enter the Dynaudio Confidence 50 floor-standing behemoths!

Dynaudio Confidence 50...

dynaudio confidence 50 in our resident naim 500 series system

Dynaudio - A personal story...

As a kid, I remember the adverts for Danish bacon vividly, but it wasn’t until my teens that I first became aware of the Danish brand, Dynaudio.

Renowned for their speaker drive units, Dynaudio was the go-to for several hi-fi manufacturers who relied on them to provide quality drivers for their speaker ranges – and very good they are too.

My own experience began with a pair of entry-level Dynaudio Audience 42 stand-mount speakers, which served me exceptionally well for several years. The hi-fi bug had truly bitten, and when I heard the impact of a pair of Dynaudio Focus 110 stand-mount speakers could have on sound, I bought them – and they’re still in the family today.

I'm fortunate to be able to listen to a wide variety of electronics and speakers in my line of work, and I've thoroughly enjoyed my experience with speakers from the more recent Dynaudio range. In fact, over the past couple of years, I’ve written about the superb Dynaudio Contour 20i, which you can read about here.

Have confidence, will listen!

dynaudio confidence 50’s in our naim 500 series system

So, what do the Dynaudio Confidence 50 have to offer? Let’s just say they deliver a level of performance that’s worlds apart from the Dynaudio stand-mount speakers I’ve owned. It’s safe to say that the Confidence range is the finest series Dynaudio has ever produced, packed with the most advanced speaker technology available today!

Full technical specifications are available on our website here.

dynaudio’s confidence range (Photo Credit: Dynaudio)

The use of original Dynaudio drivers, including the formidable Esotar 3 tweeter, combined with a precision composite baffle, innovative cabinet design, and optimised crossover, has created the most advanced passive speaker in their history. Dynaudio’s cutting-edge sound analysis tools in their Jupiter Lab measuring facility have led to the next generation of Dynaudio’s DDC sound-beaming technology, including the DDC Lens waveguide system.

dynaudio’s jupiter test lab facility (Photo Credit: Dynaudio)

The Esotar 3 tweeter in the DDC Lens works in harmony with the NeoTec woofers, the groundbreaking Horizon midrange driver surround, and the innovative Compex baffle, ensuring music is directed perfectly to your ears.

Striding confidently through music playback

All the technology in the world would mean little if the Dynaudio Confidence 50 didn’t deliver sonically. Now, I know Bonfire Night has passed, but the sonic fireworks these speakers bring are something to behold. With explosive dynamics and a massive sense of scale, they delineate each instrument and voice as distinctly as individual fireworks lighting up the night sky. I can’t say they’d blow up the Houses of Parliament, but they’d certainly get MPs’ attention if the volume were turned up!

Once the smoke clears, the Dynaudio Confidence 50 also display a soft, delicate touch, with musicality radiating from every driver, bringing musicians vividly to life before your eyes and ears.

A class act!

things are looking up with the dynaudio confidence 50 loudspeakers

I can speak with confidence when I say these speakers come highly recommended...

The Dynaudio Confidence 50 are a recent addition to our line-up of speakers here at Audio T Brighton, and we’ve been utterly astonished by their performance since their arrival – especially when paired with our Naim 500 system, comprising the Naim NAC 552 preamp 552PS DR and NAP 500DR 500PS, fronted by a Rega Naia turntable with Aphelion 2 MC cartridge and Rega Aura phono stage.

During our recent Turntable Event, we paired the shop’s Naim 500 series system and Dynaudio Confidence 50 loudspeakers with a range of turntables to impressive effect, including an Audio Note TT-3 turntable with Arm 3/IO MC cartridge and PSU-3 power supply, a Linn LP12 Klimax with Urika, Ekos SE, and Ekstatik cartridge, a Michell Gyrodec turntable with T8 tonearm and Cusis S cartridge, an SME Series 15A Diamond turntable with Series 5 tonearm and Rega Ania Pro MC cartridge, and finally a Cyrus TTP turntable, all running through a Cyrus Classic phono stage with PSX-R2 power supply.

It’s safe to say that these speakers’ performance vividly highlighted the differences between each turntable. If you’re looking to build a high-end system, the Dynaudio Confidence 50 come highly recommended.

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so do get in touch to book a demonstration.

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…

SME can be found at the following Audio T stores -

A Disappearing Act: The Magic of the ATC SCM100ASLT SE

/ Audio T Southampton/

Here at Audio T Southampton, we have always been big fans of ATC speakers—especially their fantastic range of active models. In today’s blog, I’ll be diving into one of their most prestigious offerings: the illustrious SCM100ASLT SE. I’ll share my experience with these extraordinary speakers during the short time we had them. Without further ado, let’s jump in!

The Brilliant ATC SCM100ASLT SE in burr magnolia (Photo Credit: ATC Loudspeakers)

What Does “Active” Mean?

For those unfamiliar, ATC specialises in both passive and active speakers, with the latter featuring built-in amplifiers precisely matched to their drivers. Unlike passive speakers, where you need to consider wattage per channel carefully, active speakers remove that stress by integrating everything seamlessly. The only additional requirement is mains power for the built-in amplifiers.

The key benefits of active speakers include perfectly matched amps for each driver and the freedom to keep your rack uncluttered for other components, such as sources or streamers.

a photo from our incredible atc x auralic event

Massive Size, Balanced Sound

Unboxing these imposing speakers was a memorable experience. Standing at nearly 1.2 metres tall and weighing 79kg each, they’re as monumental as they are magnificent. Once positioned and fitted with spikes, it was clear these speakers were in a class of their own. The High Gloss Piano Black finish was flawless, and their sleek, distinctive "Brow" design added a touch of elegance.

a fantastic track to test both highs and lows!

To play these beauties, we paired them with the award-winning AURALiC Aries G2.2 and Vega G2.2, using the Vega to control the speakers. The sound was nothing short of breathtaking. The bass was tight, controlled, and effortlessly powerful, while the midrange remained crystal clear, and the highs were sweet and precise. Everything was perfectly balanced—an audio experience that was as immersive as it was impressive.

A Magician’s Dream

One standout quality of the SCM100ASLT SE is their ability to “disappear.” Let me explain: when we finally had the system set up, the team gathered to listen to a wide range of tracks. The first was Fanfare for the Common Man by the Minnesota Orchestra. The kettle drums boomed with such authority it felt like they shook the room. But as the trumpets entered, the speakers blended into the background, as if the sound was coming from nowhere.

A track wth amazing bass and incredible soundstage.

Another track that left a lasting impression was Malia’s Celestial Echo. Known for its deep, rich bass, it’s a challenging song for many speakers. Yet the SCM100s handled it effortlessly, reproducing punchy, dynamic bass without breaking a sweat. It was as if the music was alive—simply astonishing.

Great on Paper, Better in the Flesh

A quick glance at the specs shows the SCM100s are built to amaze. Each speaker features three amplifiers—200W for the 314mm super-linear bass driver, 100W for the 75mm soft dome midrange, and 50W for the all-new 25mm soft dome tweeter. The cabinet is masterfully constructed, providing the stability needed for such precision. Together, these components create a speaker that reproduces sound with unparalleled clarity and depth.

If you want the full specifications, click here.

Different angle, same splendor.

Conclusion

While their size and weight mean they demand a proper space, their sound quality makes them worth every inch. In summary, the ATC SCM100ASLT SE are a masterpiece.

Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoyed this glimpse into one of ATC’s finest creations!

Thank you for reading.


Tiago, Wayne & Nick - 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…

ATC Loudspeakers can be found at the following Audio T stores

Answering Customer Question at Audio T Bristol (Part 1)

/ Audio T Bristol/

Welcome to a new series of customer questions. Over the past three months, we’ve gathered customer questions that are nuanced and require fairly in-depth explanations. We hope this will be helpful as you consider your next, or first, Hi-Fi setup…

“Hi, I’m looking to build a Hi-Fi setup that includes an Amplifier (£800-£1500), Streamer (£800 - £1500), Turntable (£500 - £800) and Speakers (£1,000 - £2,000). I have listened to the PMC Prodigy 5 speakers at the Bristol show, these were the standout for me in this price range but I was also impressed by the Rega speakers and Focal. The Rega Planar turntable 3 or 6 has caught my eye, for amp and streamer I would take your recommendation, but I like the look of Arcam, Audiolab and Naim. Any advice would be appreciated and it would be good to arrange a demo session.”

This question reflects a very common enquiry, outlining source requirements and budget. However, the crucial information missing here is the room’s size, shape, and dimensions. Additionally, knowing the setup and furnishings is useful, as it allows us to estimate the room’s acoustic reflectivity and boundary wall areas, which impact speaker selection, positioning, and overall performance. Without this information, it’s difficult to know where to start.

A word or two on Room sizes

Roughly speaking, small to medium rooms are around 10m² to 20m². These are suited to small to medium standmount speakers, and occasionally small floorstanders. Listening in these rooms is often referred to as nearfield, so there is less need for powerful amplification.

Medium to large rooms are around 20m² to 36m². These are suited to medium to large standmounts and medium floorstanders, while anything above 36m² is considered very large. This may seem like a fairly large room, but many living spaces are now open-plan, with living rooms extending into dining areas and kitchens – this should be considered as a single room when selecting speakers.

Where to spend and achieve a balanced system?

The question above provides an overall budget of £3,100 to £5,800, with a focus on speakers, followed by amplifier and streamer, and lastly turntable. This approach is somewhat contentious (the old adage of 'garbage in, garbage out'). We prefer to prioritise sources first, then the amplifier as the heart of the system, and finally speakers.

If a well-designed speaker works well in a particular room, it will nearly always perform better when matched with higher-quality sources and amplification, revealing more detail, nuance, and control. The PMC Prodigy 5, priced at £1,995* as reviewed by our Audio T Swindon branch (read here), truly comes to life when driven by a Rega Aethos. At £3,000*, this is budget-stretching, but worth it. While these speakers could be powered by a less powerful amp, it would result in an unbalanced system. By this, we mean a system that fails to extract the full level of detail the source is capable of, as the amp wouldn’t have enough power to drive the speakers with sufficient control.

Cables and Interconnects are components not an afterthought

image: Chord Cables and Interconnects

Cables require careful consideration – whether connecting speakers or hi-fi components, the cable used will influence the way the system sounds. A higher-quality speaker cable can transform everything you hear, affecting dynamics, detail, tonality or timbre, and perhaps most critically, musical coherence and timing. This effect is also noticeable with power cables and dedicated audio mains blocks. Technically, better-quality cables improve signal-to-noise ratios and/or reduce noise – your decision is whether that change enhances the sound and is more suited to your preferences.


Comparing Amplifiers

At around the £1,000 mark, the contenders include the Arcam Radia A15, Audiolab 7000A, and Rega Elex Mk4. The most 'super' connected is the 7000A, offering four digital inputs, Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI, along with a unique feature – a power amp output, which is useful if you want to connect to an AV receiver. On paper, the Arcam is the most powerful at 80W.

Listening revealed the Audiolab and Arcam to offer smoother presentations, with a detail-rich, grippy midband and textured bass alongside impressive dynamics. Simply put, the Rega does more, and the all-important emotional intent of the music is so engaging, no matter what genre you throw at it. It’s no surprise that it’s rated by some reviewers – and by us – as one of the finest amplifiers under £2,000. The trade-off is that it lacks the interconnectivity of the Arcam or Audiolab, and doesn’t boast the plush exterior design and finish. The Rega is the more no-nonsense, classic A/B amplifier with a utilitarian design.

The fact that the Rega Elex lacks connectivity isn’t a significant issue, as those duties are handled by the streamer.

Streamer

The Bluesound Node 3 Wireless Network Music Player has long been a favourite for music lovers seeking high-quality streaming and easy integration into their system. Known for its robust features, the Node 3 offers seamless streaming from a variety of sources, including high-resolution audio formats, and even integrates effortlessly with other Bluesound devices to create a multi-room setup. Whether you’re using it to stream from your favourite services or your own digital library, the Node 3 provides an outstanding listening experience with crisp, clear sound and reliable connectivity.

However, the Node 3 is now end of line, making this the perfect time to grab one at a special price of just £395*, down from its original retail price of £549. With limited stock available, it's a great opportunity to secure a high-performance streamer at a discounted rate before it’s no longer available.

The Node 3 has recently been replaced by the new Bluesound Node Performance Music Streamer, which offers even more advanced features and enhanced performance for just £499. With improved hardware and software, the Node Performance provides an even better listening experience, supporting the latest streaming technologies, including superior DAC performance and expanded connectivity options. While the Node 3 remains an excellent choice for many, the Node Performance takes things to the next level for those who want the very best in wireless streaming.

Turntable

After many years in development, Rega has recently announced the new Nd range of cartridges, replacing the Elys 2 and the Exact with the Nd3 and Nd5. Using neodymium magnets, these moving magnet (MM) cartridges set a new benchmark for what is possible from an MM cart. We look forward to reviewing these new models from Rega – but there is no doubt, the initial listenings are truly groundbreaking. The Rega Planar 3 with the Nd3 is a clear winner here.

Systems in Summary

  1. Complete Separates

Other amplifier considerations -

  1. Combined amp & Streamer

Either system is firmly in the high-fidelity category and will provide years of musical enjoyment. The complete separates offer the flexibility to upgrade components over the years to come. With the Naim, we are entering premium Hi-Fi, with the fit and finish to match – the epitome of elegance and performance in a single device, along with impressive connectivity. And to hear the difference, as our customer notes, ‘…arrange a demo session.’

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…

*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

Sennheiser 600 series has a new edition to the range and it's got it's own prerogative!

/ Audio T Manchester/

Sennheiser HD 620S – How do they compare to the HD 660S2?

The 600 series from Sennheiser has been a staple of both audiophile and studio grade headphones for years now. With the studio ready HD 600 – the audio purist’s choice for reference playback. The more refined and tuned HD 650 - for analytical listening with expertly balanced acoustics, smooth response and a dimensional soundstage.

The new HD620S

And the latest open back offering in the range, the HD 660S2 – building on the recognised benchmark for neutral audiophile sound set by the HD600, HD 650, and original HD 660S, the S2 features numerous improvements on the previous models; such as enhanced sub bass response and a revised coil construction, providing higher magnetic force and electrical dampening for cleaner impulse response.

The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an impressive successor to the HD 660S, refining the series’ already respected appeal.

the Hd 660s2 and the 620s

Launched in May of this year, the HD 620S is Sennheiser’s latest closed-back offering, designed for music lovers seeking exceptional sound quality and noise isolation, aiming to maintain the well established signature sound of the 600 series, with the added bonuses of next to no sound leakage.

Much like the rest of the 600 series family, the HD 620S2 combines advanced sound reproduction with a robust, comfortable design suitable for long listening sessions. At the core is a custom 42mm dynamic driver made in Sennheiser’s Tullamore facility in Ireland, which delivers a natural, immersive audio experience with well-defined bass and clear, responsive highs.

Sennheiser HD 620S2

They distinguish themselves by balancing the open-back sound qualities typical of the HD 600 series with the benefits of a closed-back design. This means listeners can enjoy high audio fidelity and expansive soundstage while minimizing external noise, making it versatile for environments where focus is essential. Sennheiser has enhanced the headphones’ construction with metal reinforcements and steel plates that help reduce internal reflections, which in turn preserves sound clarity and precision. This refined setup provides detailed sound localisation, beneficial for both music & film lovers, as well as gamers who prioritise spatial accuracy.

Sennheiser HD 660S2

Let's give them a listen, compare them to the HD 660S2 and discuss the strengths, differences and minor trade-offs between the two…

Sound Quality

Bass: Starting with the HD 660S2, one of the main improvements Sennheiser implemented on the S2 is the enhanced low-end response. Compared to the original HD 660S, the S2 has deeper and more defined bass, which gives it a fuller, richer sound. They appear to have utilised a similar approach on the new HD 620S, as they too have a deep, rich bass, with plenty of texture and prominence in the mix, without getting too overbearing. The 660S2's bass seems a little more pronounced, possibly due to their open back nature allowing more of the airy high frequencies to escape and 'float' around your head, while the bass remains thundering in the earcups. On the other hand the 620S' closed-back design keeps all those fine high end details ringing inside them, giving the impression of less outstanding bass in comparison. It's also worth noting that the frequency response on the 620S goes down to 20Hz, while the 660S2 reach down to 10Hz.

While listening to Nude from Radiohead's In Rainbows, Colin Greenwoods' Dub-like P Bass sounds full and driving, while still letting all the textural details and reverb trails happening around it shine through. The Moog-like synth bass at ~4:00 of Frank Ocean’s Nights resonated nicely on both pairs, providing lots of low end detail without muddying any of the low mids or other elements of the mix.

Mids: The HD 660S2 delivers exceptionally detailed mid-range, especially for vocals and instruments like guitars and strings. The mids are well-balanced and give a natural warmth that audiophiles will appreciate.

The 620S sounded a little clearer in the upper mids to our ears, but this range is where all the 600 series headphones shine, they capture vocal nuances and instrumental textures that help encapsulate an immersive and engaging listening experience.

The slow building dynamics and timbre of Thom Yorke's voice on Nude were crystal clear here, surrounded by glistening, chiming guitars and strings panned around the soundstage. The chirping guitars and spatial synth layers in Nights were crisp and clear too.

Treble: The treble range is smooth and clear, without harsh peaks or sibilance. Sennheiser designed it to avoid fatigue, making it suitable for long listening sessions.

Listening to Falaise by Floating Points, from the album Crush on the HD 620S, there's no escaping the soft background hiss swelling in before the first note pierces it with a soft whine. On the HD 660S2's however, this hiss is much less prominent and fades into the airiness of the open back ear cups, not really feeling like the piece “starts” until that initial piercing note.

While the highs may lack some sparkle for those who prefer a brighter sound, they maintain clarity and detail, ensuring a pleasant, non-fatiguing listening experience that’s perfect for detail-focused listeners.

A close up view of the 620 s drive unit

Soundstage and Imaging

The soundstage on the HD 660S2 feels open and well-defined, providing an immersive listening experience without the excessive width of some open-back headphones. Imaging is precise, allowing listeners to pinpoint the position of instruments and sounds with ease. This quality makes the HD 660S2 suitable for a range of music genres and for critical listening, where spatial accuracy and layering are crucial.

Since the HD 620S are closed-back, the sound stage isn't quite as wide as the HD 660S2, they will however, give you a more direct and isolated sound, allowing you to hear every detail no matter your environment.

On the other hand, the open-back HD 660S2 offer a more expansive sound stage. The imaging and instrument separation are excellent, which results in precise placement and spatial accuracy of sounds. This makes them ideal for those who enjoy complex compositions, acoustic music, or live recordings where separation of sound elements is essential, although wouldn't be suited to those without a quiet listening space.

HD 620s

Comfort and Build

Sennheiser has maintained the same sturdy build and understated aesthetic seen in previous models. The headphones feel both robust yet lightweight, with a combination of metal and plastic materials that offer durability without adding bulk. The HD 660S2 come fitted with velour ear pads and a well-padded matching headband to make them comfortable for extended listening sessions. On the HD 620S they've opted for leather on both the earcups and the headband padding, which although to us do feel just as comfortable, might end up on the sweatier side during long listening sessions compared to the velour.

The clamping force is moderate, which helps with stability but might feel a bit tight for some users initially, but tends to loosen slightly with use over time.

Compatibility and Connectivity

The HD 620S has been designed to work with both high-end and more accessible audio equipment, thanks to its 150-ohm impedance. A dedicated headphone amp or DAC would really make them shine, but wouldn't be essential.

The HD 660S2 however, with an impedance of 300 ohms, would benefit from a dedicated amplifier to reach their full potential. While you can drive them from a smartphone or a portable DAC, they really come alive when paired with a high-quality amplifier or desktop DAC. Audiophiles will appreciate the S2’s responsiveness to high-end audio equipment, where it reveals its full clarity and detail.

Mirroring this difference, the HD620S comes with a detachable 2m cable with a 3.5mm jack for ease of use with laptops, USB DACs etc. as well as a gold screw-on 6.3mm adapter & a carry pouch.

The HD660S2 comes with two detachable 1.8m cables, one with a 6.3mm jack and one with a 4.4mm balanced cable, more suited to high end equipment, along with the same carry pouch.

It may be worth noting that the HD620S cable only plugs into the left earcup via mini-jack whereas the HD660S2's cable attaches to both sides via a 2 pin plug.

Final Verdict

Whether you fall on the side of open or closed back, these headphones are well-suited to anyone who values detail, comfort, and a balanced sound profile without extreme bass or harsh treble. While they may require good amplification to reach their full potential, both the HD 660S2 & HD 620S provide a rewarding, natural listening experience for listeners who appreciate accuracy and musicality without excessive colouration. If you're lucky enough to have a quiet listening environment, with nothing to disturb or be disturbed by, then the HD 660S2 might be for you. If you value silence and environmental isolation is essential, the HD 620S may be up your street.

Give us a shout at Audio T Manchester if you'd like to book a listening session to try them out for yourselves.

Thanks for reading

James, Munir & 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…

Riffs and Revolutions: A Very Different Kind of Vinyl Listening Event!

/ Audi T Cardiff/

As many of you know, Matt from Audio T Cardiff is a keen musician. Recently he hosted a vinyl event in Pontypridd, one of our home counties, alongside the fantastic team at A Strings guitar shop and with sponsorship from Rega. The event took place on Saturday, 28th September. If you were lucky enough to attend, you’ll know what a fantastic day it was—but if you missed out, here’s an account of what went down."

Over the years, our branches have traditionally hosted in-store events that have been highly successful, giving us the chance to showcase and demonstrate our featured brands at their best. These events have always been a real pleasure. But how do we reach a wider, more diverse, and perhaps younger audience, you may ask?

Personally, I wholeheartedly believe that music fans and musicians alike deserve access to a great-sounding hi-fi. Am I right? Of course, I am! Everyone should have a hi-fi that truly engages them—making you smile, even shed a tear, but most importantly, gets your feet tapping. Some of us even know that special piece of music that inspires us to pick up a guitar and master that riff or solo. (Thank you, Eddie Van Halen.)

As many of you know, I’ve previously organised Audio T Cardiff vinyl events outside the store at MEC Coffee, which were fantastic. This time, though, I thought it was time for something a little different.

Time for a little time travel! No, it doesn't involve a DeLorean.

When I talk about time travel, I’m really talking about this event. As most of you know, before my days with Audio T, I worked at a local guitar shop in Cardiff for 17 years. Being a guitarist, I started thinking about organising an event that combines my three biggest passions: music, hi-fi, and, of course, guitars. Musicians are often overlooked when it comes to hi-fi, which got me wondering—how can we bridge the gap between musicians and audiophiles?

Reflecting on my childhood, I feel lucky to have experienced music in such quality, thanks to my dad’s studio days. Everyone deserves access to great hi-fi, and I wanted to show that you don’t need to spend over £10,000 to enjoy a high-quality system, especially for vinyl playback—my favourite way to listen. How could I best demonstrate this? That’s when it hit me—I should reach out to my favourite guitar shop, A Strings.

In the hi-fi world, everyone knows everyone, and I’ve known the guys at A Strings, Andrew and Adam, for years as both friends and a customer (keeping my guitar addiction alive). I asked if they’d like to co-host an event with us in their store, and they were thrilled to say yes. We set the date, and both the A Strings team and I couldn’t have been more excited!

How about a little history about A Strings?

A Strings was founded in Cardiff back in 2006 by Andrew Morgan, originally specialising in guitar strings and accessories. Stocking over 1,000 varieties of strings—ranging from the popular to the obscure—they quickly built a loyal customer base, with many of their original customers still returning to this day. Over time, they expanded to stock a range of leading guitar brands, including Fender, Gretsch, and Gibson.

Fast-forward to the present, and A Strings is now located at 66 Broadway, Treforest, Pontypridd, where they’ve been for the past 15 years. In fact, they celebrated their 15th anniversary at this location on the day of the event.

An interesting fact about A Strings: they have supplied strings and gear to legendary musicians such as Brian May of Queen, Eric Clapton, the Manic Street Preachers, Motörhead, Killing Joke, and Mark Knopfler, to name just a few.

Reaching out to the turntable kings – Rega, that is.

With a good idea of the system I wanted to bring to the event—mainly Rega equipment—I reached out to our fantastic Rega representative, Rob Noble, about promoting the event on their website as well as ours and A Strings’. I also enquired about the possibility of a turntable giveaway, and Rega went above and beyond by generously donating a Rega Planar 1 Eco deck for the event’s prize draw.

Rega Planar 2 with nd3 cartridge

Rega’s God of amplification.

With everything in full swing—the advertising sorted and nearly everything ready to rock—I received an email from Rega’s amplification guru, Mr Terry Bateman, which was a real honour. Terry and I discussed how unique this event was compared to typical hi-fi events and how it bridges the gap between audiophiles and musicians. We also talked about amp design, especially the renowned Rega Brio, which Terry designed and voiced much like a guitar amplifier. It’s known for that rich analogue class AB warmth, reminiscent of solid-state guitar amps.

Terry shared his experiences before joining Rega, when he worked as an amp repairman for guitar amplification, focusing on brands like Fender, Marshall, and Vox. Like me, Terry has roots in the guitar industry and has even worked with notable musicians, including Robin Trower (if you haven’t heard Bridge of Sighs, give it a listen), The Hamsters, and many others. After our chat about amps, music, and classic rock, Terry said he would come along to the event. It’s a true privilege to have someone of his stature attending—as I said at the start, an amp legend!

What equipment did I bring to the event, I hear you ask?

Starting with the sources:

On the amplification front:

On the speaker front:

Cabling: Black Rhodium Intro speaker cables and interconnects.

Hi-Fi rack and stands:

On the vinyl cleaning side of things:

And now the fun really begins.

With the system set up and ready to go in what I can only call ‘guitar heaven,’ we were all set to rock. I spoke with many people about their records, collections, and equipment, and we even did several A-B tests, playing records before and after they’d been cleaned. One rare gem was Andrew’s original pressing of Queen II, and we played March of the Black Queen. Hearing the difference post-cleaning was incredible—the improvement was, as they say, night and day.

We also put the Rega system through its paces; to say it sounded fantastic doesn’t quite do it justice. The system truly demonstrated that you can build a great hi-fi setup without breaking the bank. The event itself had an amazing atmosphere, with rock tracks from every genre filling the space. Chatting with new faces about hi-fi, music, and guitars (my three favourite subjects), spending the afternoon with Andrew and the fantastic team at A Strings, meeting their customers, and having Terry from Rega there made for an absolute joy—a perfect afternoon of rock & roll and hi-fi.

And we have a winner!

A week had passed since the fantastic event at A Strings, and it was time to announce the lucky winner of a Rega turntable! I headed back to A Strings to reveal the winner on Fear’s Friday update. Yes, I did this live, and it went well—it was an honour to be part of their regular Friday video. So, who’s the winner? Drum roll, please... congratulations to Kris Morris!

Kris came by our store to collect his brilliant new Rega Planar 1 Eco deck. While he was here, I took him through a few amplification and speaker options to help him get set up and ready to enjoy his new system.

Are there more events like this on the way, you ask?

The short answer is a big, resounding yes! The event had such a fantastic vibe that it’s definitely worth doing again. In fact, I’ve spoken with Andrew and the team, and they’re keen to host another event with us at Audio T in the near future—so watch this space!

Thank you

A huge thank you once again to Andrew, Adam, and the team at A Strings for co-hosting the event with us, and to Terry and his lovely wife for attending—it was a real honour to have them there. Most importantly, a big thank you to everyone who came to the event; it was a genuine pleasure to meet you all, and I hope to see you again soon!

Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog.

Matt - Audio T Cardiff

Matt and the A String Team

Audio T Cheltenham and the Audio Technica AT-VM Moving Magnet Cartridge Family

/ Audio T Cheltenham/

Audio Technica have been making phono cartridges for more than a few years now and have got rather good at it! The VM range are so good that I have been inspired to dedicate this months blog to them and explain why one of them may well be just what your turntable needs for Christmas. (Blimey have I mentioned the C word already!)

shiny new things at Audio T Cheltenham

A Bit Of Background Info

Audio Technica was started by Hideo Matsushita from a small flat in 1962. He was disillusioned by the expensive options around at the time and wanted to make brilliance affordable to everyone. The first Audio Technica cartridge was called the AT-1 (must have taken the marketing department a while to come up with that name!)

All Lined Up in a row

Affordable Brilliance

Altogether the Audio Technica VM 95 range consists of five beautifully packaged cartridges (not counting the 78 version) all of which share the same body but all of which use very different styli, and are the epitome of that company philosophy of affordable brilliance. The cartridge is a vitally important link in the reproductive cycle, being the bit that turns the mechanical movement of the needle (stylus) in the record groove into an electrical signal.

The VM95C

AT-VM95C

The cheapest of the range is the VM95C. The C stands for conical which is the most basic of all the stylus profile shapes and will be mostly used with basic entry level turntables. Also very easy to install and the conical stylus profile is not so fussy about perfect alignment in the turntable head-shell.

The VM95E

AT-VM95E

Second up from the bottom of the range comes the VM95E. The E here meaning that the stylus profile is elliptical. This gives a little more contact of the stylus with the groove wall of a record thus making the sound a tad more detailed and refined. This one is the perfect go to as an entry level upgrade for older turntables with worn out cartridges or styli or newer decks that have cheap pre fitted cartridges.

The VM95EN

AT-VM95EN

The middle of the range brings us to the VM95EN. This stylus profile is an eliptical nude refinement of the cheaper 95E giving it more groove contact and greater fidelity.

The VM95ML

AT-VM95ML

Just one down from the top of comes the VM95ML. The ML signifies that this stylus tip is microlinear in profile. This almost exactly duplicates the shape of the cutting stylus that produces the original master disc (the disc used to create the pressed vinyl record). This likeness enables the microlinear stylus to track portions of the record groove that other styli just cannot reach. This results in extremely accurate tracing of high frequencies and a flat frequency response within the audible range. This unique multi-faceted shape also wears more evenly,greatly extending record and stylus life…..good eh!

The VM95SH

AT-VM95SH

Sitting proudly at the top of the VM range comes the VM95SH. This has an even narrower stylus tip. This gives a beautiful mid range and improved extension at the top end. Also being much kinder on record groove wear too! It does require more precise alignment and set than do conical and elliptical styli though.

going up the range from left to right

Added Bonus

All models of VM95 Series cartridges use the same electromagnetic engine-body, therefore all of the replacement styli are perfectly compatible with each other. This has the added bonus that cartridges can be used for years just by replacing the interchangeable stylus. It is no longer necessary to buy a complete cartridge when your diamond is worn out, you can simply buy the matching replacement stylus, but also enjoy the experience of upgrading your cartridge with a better stylus should you feel the need.

The packaging is rather nice too

No Nuts

VM95 Series cartridges are all fitted with two M2.6 threaded inserts allowing easy installation of the cartridge onto tonearm or removable head-shell without the use of nuts. Each cartridge is provided with one pair of 8mm M2.6 screws, one pair of 11mm M2.6 screws and two plastic washers. Personally I would do away with the screws and washers and use a couple of nice bolts of just the right length.

The Red Hot Favourite

My Favourite!

Out of the whole range my favourite one is the 95ML. It is a great upgrade for so many turntable and arm combinations. It has this great knack of sounding both full bodied and yet delicate at the same time. Sound staging can be goosbumpingly gorgeous and can put many a much more expensive cartridge to shame! Bass reproduction is fast and bulbous, tight also! I always look forward to listening to one of these and just know that if a turntable has one of these little gems fitted to it that it will sound sweet, musical and fun all at the same time!

Get A Demo

If you fancy hearing the difference that an Audio Technica AT-VM95 series cartridge make to your turntable, please give us a call or pop along to the shop for a demo. There’s free fitting too!

Many 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…

ROTEL AII AND CD11 MK2: Rotel’s latest amplifier and CD player

/ Audio T Swindon/

Introducing the A11 and CD11 MKII at Audio T Swindon

As many of you may know, Rotel is a respected Japanese Hi-Fi brand with a remarkable history spanning nearly seventy years, and it's still family-owned to this day.

Their latest MkII versions of the amplifier and CD player build upon the success of the previous Tribute series—a tough act to follow, given the Tribute models’ strong reputation. Rather than a complete overhaul, Rotel opted for an evolutionary approach, refining and enhancing the original design—a wise choice that retains the qualities that made the Tribute series so popular while adding thoughtful improvements.

A11 MK2 amplifier

In updating this amplifier, Rotel has chosen to add a Texas Instruments 32-bit, 384 kHz DAC—the same high-quality DAC featured in the CD11 MKII. This choice reflects their commitment to providing excellent digital performance. Unlike the previous Tribute model, which lacked a DAC but offered two pairs of speaker outputs, the A11 MKII includes only one pair of outputs. Personally, I find the addition of a DAC far more valuable than the ability to run dual speaker sets.

Inside the beast (photo credit: rotel)

The Rotel A11 MKII offers coaxial and optical inputs, but if digital functionality isn't essential, the A10 MKII is identical in all other respects and saves you £150. The A11 MKII includes a high-quality moving magnet phono input, analogue and Bluetooth connectivity, and a front-panel 3.5mm headphone jack. The metal casing, offered in silver or black, features all-metal rotary controls, with a volume knob that has a nicely weighted feel—adding to its premium impression. With 50 watts per channel, it easily drives most compatible speakers.

Rotel CD11 and A11 MKII at Audio T Swindon

CD11 MK2

Over thirty years ago, during my early days at Audio T (when I still had hair!), we took-on Rotel's first CD player, the multi-bit RCD 855, soon followed by the highly popular Bitstream RCD 865. Rotel quickly established itself as a leading name in CD playback, and it’s reassuring to see their continued support for this format. This model, as mentioned, shares the same TI chip as the matching amplifier and features a proprietary Rotel transport, with a digital stage that improves upon its Tribute predecessor. Naturally, the same high-quality build is maintained throughout.

As a system:

We paired the system with a set of Dali Oberon 5 speakers and played our go-to test track, Ballad of the Runaway Horse by Rob Wasserman and Jennifer Warnes. If you’re not already using this track for setup, it’s worth considering: it helps position Jennifer’s voice precisely in height and width, while also assessing bass control—a valuable tool for fine-tuning. The result was a spacious, well-defined soundstage with an authentic performance feel. It was musical, detailed, and truly enjoyable. Switching to the Hi-Fi show favourite Hey Now by London Grammar, the system handled the notoriously challenging bass with control, delivering a warm high-end and a balanced, mellifluous presentation overall.

Conclusion.

These units offer outstanding value for money, providing ample power for real-world listening environments. They deliver a sound that’s impressively detailed yet easy on the ears, ensuring an enjoyable and non-fatiguing experience over extended listening sessions. Built to an exceptional standard, they’re as robust as they are elegantly designed, with controls that feel precise and intuitive—making them a pleasure to use.

For those who appreciate a traditional setup, there’s also a matching tuner, the T11, a rare find in today’s market, which seamlessly complements the system.

If you’d like to experience these for yourself, please don’t hesitate to reach out and book a listening session.

Thank you for reading.

Jon and Andy - Audio T Swindon

Rotel products are available at the following stores:

A SUBstantial evening of sound discovery with Audio T Bristol and REL Acoustics

/ Audio T Bristol/

On Thursday 14th November (19:00 - 21:00), Audio T Bristol will be hosting the first of our Winter Series of events beginning with the question - What can subwoofers do for the Hi-Fi Experience? Led by Rob Hunt from REL, this promises to be a SUBstantial journey into the wonderful world of bass.

Full details of the event follow at the end of this blog, but first let’s discuss Subwoofers…

The Marmite Analogy - once more…

Across the pond, it is a matter of course to add subwoofers to a Hi-Fi system and a no brainer if you are passing through audio from a TV to enjoy cinema at home.

Here in the UK, there are still members of the Hi-Fi community that frown deeply at the thought of subwoofers. It borders on heresy, largely due to experiences of booming boxes from other brands, questionable early subwoofer marketing days and a misconception that subs are for the youth in lowered cars with UV lights and phat exhausts.

REL Acoustics’ Approach to Subwoofers

REL Acoustics began in 1990, driven by one man’s dissatisfaction with the performance of subwoofers available at the time. That search for better, that pursuit of perfect bass reproduction remains the driving force behind REL.

Over the years, with renewed emphasis on reliability, high powered, fast reacting subwoofer drivers and REL’s production and technical abilities have turned them into world leaders in Subwoofer performance - the benchmark of benchmarks. Check out the blog section of REL’s website - a treasure trove of in depth answers to every subwoofer question and solution out there can be found here.

The Common Subwoofer Misconception

  • I’m not a bass freak

  • Flow and timing are ruined

  • Lower octave bass is not needed, if you’ve got good speakers

  • That boomy, uncontrolled, sloppy and slow sound will ruin my system setup

  • Takes up too much room

The RELevance of Subwoofers

  • Most people buy a sub to add some bass to their Home Cinema and/or gaming experience. We would go a step further and say you cannot fully experience Home Cinema and gaming without a Sub, such is the use of sub frequencies in film and gaming production effects, music and ambient environment - there is so much of the audio immersive experience missing.

  • Expanded soundstage

  • Enhanced mid range

  • Better Imaging

  • Vocal presence improved; A sub increases intelligibility of dialogue.

  • Richness, transparency & focus

  • Bang for buck it can be one of the best performance improvements you can make to a system.

  • Clearly produces the lower frequency instruments with better impact, punch and dynamism.

  • It can overcome the deleterious effects of bad rooms. We all have rooms to live in, not perfect conditions for acoustic reproduction.

The 3 Commandments according to RELigion

1: The Sub should never boom or call attention to itself. The goal is to get the sub locked in. Natural integration with that seamless handover between speaker and sub is essential. You should never be able to audibly detect where a Sub is in a room, it fills in where the speakers need support in the lower frequencies that the speaker cannot reproduce. Interestingly this does not take away the character of the speakers’ presentation at all.

2: Woolly bass is largely a product of bad cabinet design. The build quality and finish of the REL is impressive. A subwoofer running is having to deal with 40 -50 psi (2.7-3.5 Bar) of cabinet pressure as the pistonic action of the huge driver moves to produce the frequencies. That requires a very well braced, damped and reinforced cabinet and REL succeeds hugely on this over the competition.

3: Speed is key. REL’s circuitry and filters allow for the sub frequencies to be transmitted at speed. Most subwoofers will fulfil a criteria of producing 20-20Hz region with output peak of around 100dB (very loud). But, most of them will not possess the speed and suppleness of a REL. The High Level connection (more on this later) allows for a response rate of 8ms for the T series falling to 4ms and less in the Reference & S series. Where most subwoofers seemingly bow out of the conversation by 10ms, the S/510, for example, has the capacity to open up fast loudspeakers, many of them costing upwards of $20,000, and improve the very things they’re best known for - Image precision, rhythm, nuance, harmonic structure, and air…all improve vastly when the sub matches speaker speed.

High Level Connection

What High Level connection means, is that you are taking the same signal from the amplifier output terminals that feed the main speakers directly to the Subwoofer. The High level allows REL to take the high voltage signal from the amplifier, step it down through a resistor ladder matrix. It seems easy, it’s not and is the hard fought knowledge of many years of development and key to REL’s signature transparency and speed. The character of your speakers is determined by all the components from the source and the eventual signal path to the speakers is where all the character comes from and this is where REL sits and this is better than a low level connector. To the amplifier, it does not “see” that connection as it runs at over 100,000 Ohms and represents effectively no load to the amp.

Audio T Presents…

Get ready for an immersive journey into the world of high-fidelity sound as Audio T Bristol kick off our Winter Series of events with something truly special. Join us for an evening dedicated to answering one of the most debated questions in the audiophile community: What can subwoofers really do for the Hi-Fi experience?

When? Thursday 14th November (19:00 - 21:00)

Where? BAWA, 589 Southmead Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG

How much? Tickets are FREE, Demand is high, so BOOK NOW, Refreshments provided

This is an event you can experience the RELs for yourself. It you can’t make it book a demonstration or enjoy a weekend home loan (deposit required) to see how subs can transform our Hi-FI Music and Cinema Experience

See you there!

Justin, George & 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…

A turntable summit - 6 high-end turntables to take your vinyl playback to the mountaintops.

/ Audio T Brighton/

Hi folks, and welcome to this month’s article from us here at Audio T Brighton. Continuing from where we left off last month, we are going to focus our attention on the more exclusive end of the turntable market. What fun!

In part two of our blog on turntables, we are delighted to have the opportunity to listen to six turntables of distinction. To say that we have a rare opportunity is a bit of an understatement, as the turntables under consideration have been drawn from all over the country for comparison. To mark the occasion, Audio T Brighton will be hosting a week-long event to demonstrate to our customers the joys of quality record playback and what they may bring to your musical pleasure, taking place between Tuesday 5th November and Saturday 9th November.

An audio preface to phono stages...

Before we start on the major task of turntable reviews, we mustn’t forget the all-important phono stage. Whether moving-magnet (MM) or moving-coil (MC), they shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to system matching and synergy.

The Aura is the finest in Rega’s current range and Moving Coil only phono stage, although this isn’t a problem at this end of the market because most of the cartridges employed tend to be of this type anyway.

The Cyrus Classic phono stage with PSU is another option we will use in these reviews. More flexible in its settings and MM/MC compatibility, it offers an excellent alternative when turntable matching comes into play (which, as you will see, it does quite often).

The Linn Urika phono stage with Linn Radikal 2 power supply is a little different, in that it is mounted internally on the Linn LP12 Klimax turntable, explaining why I haven’t included a photo here!

The brawn behind the brains...

Our blog wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the powerhouse system we’ve used to amplify and play our favourite records…

The top shop system comprises a Naim NAC 552 preamp with a NAC 555PS power supply and a NAP 500DR power amp with CD 555PS power supply, feeding a pair of ATC SCM50 passive loudspeakers. This system is as dynamic and transparent as they come, allowing our turntables to really show their stuff.

As an addendum to the above, we have just taken delivery of some Dynaudio Confidence 50 speakers, making a pleasant change from our resident ATC’s and their sound can only be described as spectacular!

our resident naim 500 series system, now with dynaudio confidence 50 speakers

Describing the sound and character of our turntables...

Our thoughts on the sound characteristics of the six turntables is difficult to do without personal preference or favouritism and is very subjective, so we’ve attempted to go back to school and remember our friends and peers in the context of the character they displayed and use that as a vehicle for description. Fingers crossed!

Audio Note TT3 with PSU3 and Audio Note IO cartridge...

audio note tt3 turntable with audio note io blue cartridge

Our first record player is an Audio Note TT-3 turntable with its matching PSU-3 power supply and an Audio Note IO Blue low-output MC cartridge.

Armed with an independently controlled, suspended 3 motor belt-drive, LEXAN platter (low resonance and non-reflective material) and Audio Note’s own in-house design tonearm, called the Audio Note ARM -THREE/II, all mounted on a substantial anodised-aluminium plinth, this turntable is a substantial beast on our hi-fi rack, yet subtle and finessed in its musical rendition. Interestingly, during our first listen with the Rega Aura phono stage, we felt the deck was not quite “singing”. Changing to our Cyrus Classic phono stage, and altering the gain settings, we found our preferred sound signature.

Bestowed with a fine and airy top-end, the Audio Note seemed to extract oodles of detail from our copy of Miles Davis, “Kind of Blue”, yet provided a pure and well-balanced, neutral performance. Overall, the sound was clean and easy on the ear, with long listening sessions possible, without the fatigue some decks can produce with over-mastered modern guitar-based recordings. I certainly enjoyed its sonic ease and transparency with old-school jazz. Unfortunately, access to an Audio Note phono stage wasn’t possible in time for our event. It's a pity because it would have been interesting to hear this deck with a “home-grown” phono stage before any final conclusions were drawn.

Our colleagues at Audio T in Reading have written an earlier blog on this turntable, so if you fancy an alternative and more technical review read here.

Using our student analogy, the Audio Note TT-3 was like a student I knew at school. He had an air of confidence, yet was socially quite laid-back in character. Particularly good at Art and Technical Drawing, with an eye for detail in his studies, he went on to study Graphic Design at Cambridge University.

Rega NAIA with Rega AURA phono stage...

rega naia turntable with rega aphelion 2 MC cartridge

Rega has established a formidable reputation as a major brand in-store at Audio T in Brighton. For over 50 years Rega has been producing quality music playback equipment, but they are currently best known for their turntables. In our case, we listened to the Rega NAIA with Rega Aphelion 2 MC cartridge played through a Rega Aura phono stage.

Rega NAIA spotlight...

I have written at length about the virtues of the Rega NAIA and its matching MC cartridge and phono stage in an earlier blog. To avoid repeating the technical details of the deck, I will point you to this article - Rega Naia blog and review.

Differences between the Rega NAIA and Audio Note TT-3 combos are quite marked, with physical characteristics being a world apart and reflecting a very different design philosophy when it comes to dealing with energy dispersal. Rega’s low mass theory versus the higher mass/suspension system of the Audio Note is an argument for theoretical physicists but there is no denying it affects the sonic qualities of each deck.

The Rega Naia is an exceptionally dynamic and weighty-sounding turntable with a wonderfully diverse tonal palette and a beguiling nature. As I have mentioned before, the phono stage changes the game, with the two decks sounding more alike (yet still totally unalike!) when the Cyrus Classic phono stage was used instead of the Rega Aura. The Rega combo is a synergistic marriage made in heaven!

Ending with our student analogy, the Rega Naia is a bit of a string bean, popular with his peers, has a playful and experimental nature, yet gets good exam results and goes on to achieve a 1st Class Honours Vocational Degree in Engineering.

Linn LP12 Klimax/Urika1/Radikal2/Ekstatik...

linn lp12 klimax with urika phono stage and linn ekstatik mc cartridge

There’s a saying that two’s company and three’s a crowd! Certainly, the market is flooded with a ton of turntable combinations and at these heady price levels, customers should expect their purchase to stand out from the crowd.

The Linn LP12 Klimax turntable with Ekos SE tonearm, Ekstatik MC cartridge and Urika/Radikal 2 phono stage/power supply does the best it can to do this and in many ways, its upgradeability, serviceability and heritage mark it out from the crowd. I guess the question is, does the LP12 Klimax live up to its name amongst the modern-day competition?

We have written extensively about Linn’s turntable options in many of Audio T’s blogs, including the more affordable combinations of Linn LP12 add-ons. Please read here for more info.

linn lp12 klimax with urika phono stage and linn ekstatik mc cartridge

So how does the Linn LP12 Klimax with Ekos SE/Ekstatik combo fare in such esteemed competition? The answer is, as you’d expect, very well indeed! However, when you are listening at this level, they all sound amazing.

I would describe the Linn LP12 Klimax sound as detailed and dynamic with great pizzazz and etched in the presence/lower treble region, a transparent mid-range and fluid bass with great timing. One of the beauties of vinyl playback is the ability to “flavour” your sound with different cartridges, with an extensive choice of quality cartridges on the market. We’ve certainly heard our fair share here at Audio T Brighton and some work better than others, especially when partnered symbiotically with amps and speakers in the audio chain. I guess this highlights the importance of listening to a range of system combinations before you buy and Audio T offer unparalleled services in that area that cannot be matched by reading reviews or buying online.

The Linn LP12 Klimax was a sporting wizard at school, has a very fastidious work ethic and a socially adept character, who went on to get a First Class Honours Degree at St.Andrews!

Michell Gyrodec with T8 tonearm & Cusis S MC cartridge...

michell gyrodec with michell t8 tonearm and cusis mc cartridge

At this point, we’ve gone beyond the two’s company, three’s a crowd, so we’ll say hello to the Michell Gyrodec with Michell T8 tonearm and Cusis MC cartridge, as it gatecrashes the party.

The Michell Gyrodec really is a sight to behold when it’s spinning, being beautifully eye-catching and yet distracting at the same time. The video -clip below will give you an idea of what I mean.

The Michell Gyrodec is probably closest in character to the Audio Note TT3, with less “air” in the upper treble, yet is more fleshed-out in the lower treble/presence region, giving cymbals a smoother yet more tonally rounded character. Interestingly, at least for us, we preferred the sound of the Michell without the record clamp attached. The clamp seemed to produce a slightly more sat-on character, possibly because of the damping effect it had, so we’d recommend leaving it off, but as usual, your mileage may vary!

Using our student analogy, it is like the quiet student in class, with an immaculate school uniform, gets on with their work without misbehaving, putting their hand up or joining in - yet still gets good exam results.

SME Model 15A-V Diamond with Series V tonearm and Rega Ania Pro MC cartridge...

SME model15/309 with series v tonearm and rega ania pro mc cartridge

The SME Model 15A - V Diamond with Series 5 tonearm is an engineering marvel and our crowd of turntables is rapidly turning into a collective pronoun, if one exists. Our visitors, Ian and Alester, took us through the extensive process of setting up the SME Model 15A - V Diamond with Series 5 tonearm, with a plethora of adjustment tools - all very impressive stuff!

The finished assembly is a sight to behold, with impressive engineering and a solidity that is commensurate with its elevated price. The SME design certainly falls into the high mass, suspended design, as opposed to the Rega NAIA with Aphelion 2 cartridge design, which favours a low mass design, platters aside.

The SME Model 15A - V Diamond with Series 5 tonearm and Rega Ania Pro MC cartridge was auditioned through a Cyrus Classic Phono stage plus PSU-XR.

Sonically, the SME combination has a very lucid presentation, with bass quality and its ability to play a tune especially noticeable. Dynamically, the SME sounded very adept and instruments were delivered very cleanly and with gravitas.

So what type of student is it? The SME Model 15A - V Diamond with Series 5 tonearm went to Lancing College, was a bit of a swot, a teacher’s pet, with shoes buffed like mirrors and won a scholarship in engineering at Cambridge!

Cyrus TTP with PSX-R2 PSU, Rega RB330 tonearm and Dynavector 20XII cartridge...

cyrus ttp with psx-r2 psu, rega rb330 tonearm and dynavector 20xii cartridge

Last but not least comes the Cyrus TTP with PSX-R2 PSU supplied as standard with a Rega RB330 tonearm and Dynavector 20XII cartridge. Lifting this deck gives a good impression of quality and it certainly falls into the high mass camp regards energy suppression. Along with some other decks in this blog, the Rega tonearm seems to be a go-to for turntable manufacturers, with several iterations depending on the audiophile tier that the deck falls into. All I can say is hats off to Rega for designing an arm that is ubiquitous in the hi-fi turntable manufacturers toolkit.

Fit and finish are splendid and we felt our choice of Dynavector 20XII cartridge was a good match for the Cyrus TTP when it came to our listening sessions.

It is almost a little unfair to compare the Cyrus TTP with our other decks in this blog because they operate in a different stratosphere when it comes to cost. However, you may be pleased to hear that the Cyrus TTP fared well, especially when used with the additional PSX-R2 PSU. We are a big fan of additional power supplies here at Brighton and with it, the Cyrus TTP is elevated significantly in sound quality, with a lot more detail and “meat on the bone”, producing a clean, well-separated sound, as sturdy sonically as it is in terms of its construction.

Using our student analogy, the Cyrus TTP with PSX-R2 PSU was the energetic, sporty student at the local comprehensive school, is popular with the girls and plays an Ovation acoustic guitar with his mates in a school band.

A turntable event to look forward to...

It is not often that the opportunity arises to be able to listen to such a range of quality turntables. We are already spoilt with our resident decks, available to demo every week, but to have four additional “special” decks is a privilege for us and an opportunity not to be missed for the turntable lover, so put these dates in your diary and give us a call.

Tuesday 5th November until Saturday 9th November at Audio T in Brighton.

Tel: 01273 609431

Email: brighton@audio-t.co.uk

As always, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so get in touch to book a demonstration.

Thanks for reading.

Adey, John & 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…

Rega can be found at the following Audio T stores

Cyrus can be found at the following Audio T stores

Audio Note can be found at the following Audio T stores:

Michell can be found at the following Audio T stores

Linn can be found at the following Audio T stores

SME can be found at the following Audio T stores

Dynavector can be found at the following Audio T stores

Dynaudio can be found at the following Audio T stores -

Naim can be found at the following Audio-T stores

Wired for sound: Focal's hard-wired headphones deliver audiophile thrills to suit a range of pockets

/ Audio T Portsmouth/

Focal Celestee (Photo Credit: Focal)

Tom Gooderidge, Naim’s UK Sales and Training Executive, recently paid us a visit at the Portsmouth store and brought four sets of Focal headphones for us to listen to: the Azurys, the Clear MG, the Stellia and the Utopia. We share our views on these quality wired headphones.

Bluetooth headphones are having a moment thanks to the ubiquity of powerful mobiles, streaming services and high-res BT codecs such as Qualcomm aptX HD and aptX Lossless.

A number of Bluetooth-enabled headphones from brands such as Bowers and Wilkins, Cyrus, DALI, Sennheiser, Sonos and Focal themselves give us genuinely high quality listening experiences wirelessly and on-the-go.

But, for many hi-fi enthusiasts, wired headphones plugged into a good headphone amplifier are still the way to go for a truly high-end listening experience.

Focal, the French speaker manufacturer and now parent company to British hi-fi legends Naim, offer a range of headphones, including the award winning Bluetooth Focal Bathys. But it was their wired headphone models that we recently had the pleasure of listening to in the store.

Meet the family

We used a Naim Uniti Star to power the Azurys and the Clear MGs before switching to a Naim Nait 50 and a Naim ND5 XS2 combo for the remaining two.

Azurys

At £499* the Azurys sit at the more affordable end of the headphone market competing against the likes of the Sennheiser HD660 S2 model. They are well made with a leather headband and textile-covered earpads.

Focal azurys, closed back wired headphones

As closed-back headphones the Azurys deliver good isolation and, at just over 300g, they seem suitable for on-the-go listening. Generally, you tend to get a bassier, fuller sound from closed-back headphones compared to open backs. Open-back headphones tend to offer a greater sense of space around the music and less weighty but sometimes tighter bass.

The Azurys certainly have a weighty low end, but it is not overpowering. There is a decent sense of air and space for a closed-back headphone, no doubt thanks to their rigid aluminium/magnesium drivers.

Clear MG

Switching to the open-back Clear MG there is an obvious step up in the appearance, feel and weight (450g). These £1,299* headphones exude quality with their metal, leather and suede-like materials. The listening experience is high quality too.

Focal clear mg place you in the music

They incorporate all magnesium drivers (hence the MG in the name) which are designed to deliver a faster, more precise sound than the Focal Clear models that they replaced. The soundstage is larger than the Azury and there is greater clarity and transparency.

The Clear MG do a great job at placing you in a space in which music is playing as opposed to playing the music between your ears. Bass is articulate, tuneful and well-integrated. Micro-details are well presented, and voices and instruments have excellent tonality.

Stellia

The Stellia headphones were next up and shifted us back to a closed-back design, incorporating Focal’s electrodynamic pure Beryllium M-dome speaker to give improved lightness and stiffness compared to many other materials. The metal and leather construction of these £2,899* headphones is classy.

Focal Stellia are a class act

There is an immediate improvement in the attack and detail of the music played through the Stellia. Vocals have the power to surprise, occasionally shock, because they are so immediate and accurate. You are placed in the studio in front of the singers while guitars and other instruments are rendered with wonderful realism. Bass was beautifully reproduced with real weight and speed.

Utopia

It was now the turn of the Utopia and, frankly, we wondered if and how the excellent Stellia headphones could be bettered. The Utopia also have the Beryllium M-dome drivers. Their carbon fibre, metal and leather construction is high tech and luxurious.

These £4,699* headphones did not disappoint. As open-backed, as opposed to closed like the Stellia, they were fantastically honest and engaging. The sound staging was superb. There was an almost tangible sense of the studio or venue in which the music was recorded. Their openness was such that it felt like listening to a pair of high end speakers in an acoustically engineered room.

Focal utopia luxurious and high tech

Instruments and vocals were startlingly real, rendered with a tonal authenticity that was gripping whether it was the raw leading edge of guitar chords, the physical rap of a snare drum or the micro-tones within a single synthesiser note.

Headphones like the Utopia, Stellia and even the Clear MG deserve a good headphone amp, ideally a stand alone unit.

It’s said by some in hi-fi circles that to get the same sound produced by a pair of high quality headphones (with good quality headphone amplification) you’d have to spend two or three times the amount on speakers.

It is true that a pair of decent headphones may give you the detail and a bass response that a modest pair of speakers might struggle to match. But in our experience speakers will give you a greater soundstage and space, allowing the music to propagate and breathe in your room (although, as we know, rooms can create their own problems for hi-fi enthusiasts).

So, music played through headphones isn’t necessarily better nor worse compared to speakers. It’s just different. However, having said that, the Stellia and, particularly, the Utopia headphones come as close as we have heard recently to recreating that open sound you get from speakers – and then some.

Check out Audio T’s range of Focal headphones

Thanks for reading

Alan, Stephen 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…

Focal 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