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

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

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

Massive Digital Libraries

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

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

Bluesound NOde (Photo Credit: Bluesound)

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

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

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

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

Crank It Up!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fancy Jukeboxes

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

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

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

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

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

The Veins of Hi-Fi

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

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

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

Tinker Time

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

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

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

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

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

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

REL TZero MK3 (Photo Credit: REL Acoustics)

Conclusion

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

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

Thank you for reading:

Tiago - Audio T Southampton

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

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

---

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

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

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

The Digital Age

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

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

Marantz CD6007

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

Audiolab 6000CDT

The Control Centre

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

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

Marantz PM6007

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

Rotel A10 Integrated Amplifier

Box O' Sound

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

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

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

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

Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3

Transferring Your Tunes

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

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

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

Time to Modify

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

C-Line 2RCA to 2RCA cables

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

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

IsoAcoustics zaZen I Isolation Platform

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

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

The amazing Advance Paris X-i75

Conclusion

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

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

Thank you for reading:

Tiago - Audio T Southampton

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

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

---

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

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

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

Chord Co. C-ScreenX cable

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.

Rega Fono MM Mk5

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

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

Dual can be found at the following Audio T stores

• ONLINE STORE

DALI can be found at the following Audio T stores

• CARDIFF

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

• CHELTENHAM

• SWANSEA

Wharfedale can be found at the following Audio T stores

• CHELTENHAM

• ONLINE STORE

Chord Company can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

REL can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• PORTSMOUTH

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

• READING

• CARDIFF

WiiM can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• ONLINE STORE

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

---

*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

A Disappearing Act: The Magic of the ATC SCM100ASLT SE

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

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• MANCHESTER

• SOUTHAMPTON

Petite and Phenomenal: Introducing the All-New AURALiC VEGA S1 Streaming DAC

Here at Audio T Southampton we have long been admirers of AURALiC products. The latest to arrive is the Vega S1 Streaming DAC/Preamp with the optional S1 Purer Linear Power Supply. So without further ado, let’s dive in to see exactly what this product can do…

The Little Streamer That Could

The Auralic Vega S1 DAC has been crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality within its price range. Drawing inspiration from the esteemed G2.2 reference products, these machines inherit premium audio technologies that claim to set new standards in the industry.

The AURALiC VEGA S1 Streaming DAC (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

When we first received this product, the initial thing that we all agreed on is that the size of the unit was rather surprising, being considerably smaller than other AURALiC units currently available. Another key feature that we really enjoyed was the high quality OLED display, which allowed us to see exactly what is being played from anywhere within the room.

Upon first listening to this delightful little product, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that it offers the same signature AURALiC sound but at a much lower price point. Supplying its listeners with a wide soundstage, crystal clear midrange and high notes, all with an uncompromising bass, we believe the Vega S1 truly outperforms other streaming preamplifiers in its price range, and possibly even some just above it also!

The Guts of the vega s1 (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

We had a little play around with a few options and decided to put it in a system comprising of the Chord Electronics Ttoby Power Amplifier, a pair of Harbeth P3ESR-XD with the matching Harbeth Nelson Bass Extender Stand Solution. This particular setup offers a neat yet powerful solution, with each component complementing the other perfectly to provide a rich and moving sound.

A beautiful sounding system at the front of our store!

Macro Technology in a Micro Device

Powered by the cutting-edge Tesla G3 streaming platform, the S1 series leverages AURALiC’s innovative Direct Memory Access (DMA) and Direct Data Recording (DDR) technologies; by seamlessly recording incoming audio data into the Tesla G3 system memory and transmitting it directly to the low-level audio hardware. With the inclusion of Dual 60fs Femto Clocks and Galvanic Isolation, the S1 series achieves an unprecedented level of noise reduction. The meticulous attention to detail in the S1 series ensures that clock jitter and signal distortion are minimised to an extraordinary degree. The result is a remarkably smooth and natural sound character that faithfully reproduces the nuances of the original audio, providing an immersive listening experience that captivates the senses.

The Vega S1 offers multiple input choices, enabling you to use your preferred music playback software effortlessly. It is 100% compatible with OpenHome based control software like BubbleUPnP and Linn Kazoo, as well as being a certified RoonReady endpoint for optimised performance within your Roon ecosystem.

AURALiC’s proprietary software, Lightning DS, is the ultimate control app designed exclusively for their streaming devices. Their user-friendly interface puts you in complete control. Browse and play your favorite tunes from various sources, including local files, streaming services, and internet radio, all with ease. Lightning DS's intuitive layout and efficient navigation make it a must-have for music lovers.

digital connection galore! (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

Master Conversion

The Vega S1 represents the pinnacle of AURALiC’s state-of-the-art DAC technology, showcasing excellence in both hardware and software realms. At its core lies AURALiC’s proprietary Fusion DAC, a groundbreaking innovation that seamlessly integrates the finest elements of discrete ladder and Delta-Sigma DAC designs.

In addition to this advanced DAC technology, the Vega S1 incorporates Analogue Volume Control and Analogue Preamplifier features derived from the award winning Vega G2.2, ensuring a listening experience characterised by unique detail and precision. Breaking new ground, AURALiC introduces two pioneering technologies in the VEGA S1: PureDAC mode and Tone Mode adjustment.

the Beautiful high quality OLED display

PureDAC mode empowers the Vega S1 to disable all streaming and network-related functions, dedicating all resources to digital signal processing and conversion tasks. In this mode, the Vega S1 utilises Direct Data Recording (DDR) technology to store music signals from any digital or USB input in the past hour to Tesla G3’s system memory, allowing users to replay music from any point at any time.

Tone Mode adjustment refines the output sound character of the DAC by incorporating harmonic elements into the music signal, based on a model rooted in auditory psychology. This innovative feature enhances the listening experience, elevating the Vega S1 to new heights of audio excellence and musical enjoyment.

POWERRRRR!!

For those seeking an even higher level of audio quality, AURALiC offer an optional upgrade: the S1 External Purer-Power Supply Unit. This unit bypasses the internal power supply of the Aries S1 and Vega S1, doubling the power capacity for enhanced performance. Featuring two dedicated transformers and Purer-Power low noise power supply circuits, the upgraded unit ensures total galvanic isolation between the Tesla G3 processing circuit and audio circuits. This separation eliminates interference and minimises noise, resulting in superior sonic performance.

The AURALiC VEGA S1 and S1 Purer Power Supply (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

Our Word Against Theirs

So all in all, we believe that the Vega S1 and the S1 Purer-PSU are something truly impressive. But don’t just take our word for it, take a look at some of these excerpts from industry expert reviewers.

“The Vega S1 gets to the parts that other streamers fail” The Ear.

“Auralic are to be congratulated on what they have achieved with the Vega S1, it has been a long time since I heard a Vega G1 but can say with some confidence that this new Vega is in a different league. Not only does it have virtually all the features found in the Vega G2.2 but when combined with the S1 Purer-Power it approaches its sound quality too.” HI-FI Plus.

Final thoughts…

In conclusion, we are very much thrilled to have such a fantastic piece of kit in our line-up of streamers and sources. The combination of a small size, elegant and modern look, alongside sounding simply brilliant makes the Vega S1 a true contender for our favourite item to be released this year. Add the S1 Purer-PSU and you have an amazing sounding front end that will never leave you wanting. We can’t wait to see what the masterminds at AURALiC will be bringing out next.

If you are interested in listening to this fabulous little streamer, or indeed are interested in entering the realms of streaming in general, then don’t hesitate to get in contact with us and arrange a demonstration.

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…

---

It’s a wild card from Sonos! A Look at the Sonos Ace Headphones

Greetings fellow music lovers, and welcome to another article from Audio T Southampton. I’m once again delving into the world of headphones and this time taking a look at the brand new Sonos Ace.

As I'm sure many of you will be aware, Sonos is one of the leading brands when it comes to consumer level multi-room wireless systems, wherein you can do anything from creating a fully wireless surround sound system in your living room, multiroom playback via multiple devices or kitting out your garden with the aid of simple-yet-elegant weatherproof speakers. Sonos offer a range of solutions from soundbars to ceiling speakers. And with the inclusion of their first ever pair of headphones, you can now take your night-time listening to a whole new (and more personal) level.

Out of the box…

When I first saw these headphones announced, quite frankly I didn't know what to expect. Knowing who Sonos are, it was intriguing to me as to how they would incorporate such a personal listening experience into their portfolio of multi-room systems. At a reasonable £449*, they have simply blown me away both with their quality and comfort.

Fitting quite snugly on my head and never threatening to fall off when I walk around, thanks to the stainless steel headband which smoothly extends and stays securely in place. Inside the ear cup is an innovative mechanism which allows for precise adjustment to equalise pressure and create an exceptional acoustic seal.

Features

After perusing the included user guide and getting a better understanding of how these headphones work, I discovered that they have a feature called “Aware Mode” - An intelligent form of ANC that lets certain sound frequencies through the noise cancelling element, so you can keep an ear out for oncoming traffic or emergency service sirens. Making them the perfect option for listening to your music on the move.

Something else that the Ace incorporate is the “Wear Detection” feature. This is becoming more of a commonplace attribute with most ANC Bluetooth headphones - Everytime you take the headphones off perhaps to make conversation with someone or to complete a transaction at a store, your music will stop instantly, and will start again as soon as the headphones sit comfortably on your ears. Meaning you won't miss a single second of your favourite tracks whilst on your day-to-day business.

I don’t know about you, but one of my biggest gripes with wireless headphones is going to use them and realising that you haven’t put them on charge and the battery is completely flat! Well, with the Sonos Ace Rapid Charging, you can go from 0% to 3 hours of playback with just 3 minutes on charge. That being said, Sonos boasts a staggering 30 hour playback on one full charge (3 hours), so it might be a while before you need to worry.

Performance

Now onto the sound of the headphones themselves…

I have to say I was very pleased their performance. With a modern design that is sleek and minimalistic, the audio playback offers a clean and full bodied low-end, with a crisp and clear mid-range that allows vocals to be beautifully presented through the music.

They are truly amazing to listen to and wear. The Sonos Ace were more than capable in reproducing everything I listened to. From the softest of acoustic tracks, through to electronic and heavy rock music, not once did I wince at any dissonance!

Now, to discuss a key feature of these headphones that I thought I’d save until now; Dolby Atmos mode. I have to say this feature felt quite unique and perfect for television and film viewers who want the cinema experience without disturbing anyone else in the home.

Adding the Ace headphones to your Sonos ecosystem via the dedicated app allows you to connect to the Sonos Arc soundbar and seamlessly takeover the audio in the push of a button. However, recreating that surround sound experience isn’t easy. Especially when you factor in that your head doesn’t stay perfectly still when you’re watching the latest blockbuster.

Sonos have created a uniquely interactive system which immerses you in a three-dimensional soundstage using dynamic head tracking. This innovative feature traces the smallest movement in your head and adapts the sound to keep you centred in every scene.

Hearing the audio seamlessly shift from one side to the other made me feel like I was at the cinema, all the while without disturbing any sleeping house guests. It is worth noting that this feature requires a compatible Sonos soundbar to create the spatial audio possible.

Conclusion

As a stand-alone set of headphones, the Sonos Ace perform above and beyond their price point. Offering exceptional comfort and practical features that are perfect for the music lover on the go. I can imagine that these would be a commuters dream!

Whilst I think everyone could take enjoyment from the Sonos Ace, I think it’s safe to say that these headphones really shine as part of a Sonos ecosystem. So if you’re a Sonos user, this might very well be the next purchase for you.

And with that, I can safely say that this review on the Sonos Ace headphones is complete! If you’re interested in demonstrating these for yourself, be sure to contact your local Audio T.

Thank you for reading,

Tiago - Audio T Southampton.

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

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

---

Sonos can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• ONLINE STORE

• PORTSMOUTH

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

---

*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

Say 'Bonjour!' to the X-P700 Preamp & X-A160EVO Power Amp from Advance Paris!

At Audio T Southampton we’ve been eagerly anticipating the arrival of a number of products from Advance Paris. Amongst many new toys that we have booted up and played with since their arrival are the X-P700 preamplifier and the X-A160 EVO power amplifier. So without further ado, let's dive in…

When the pre and power amp were delivered, they were immediately put to use in driving a pair of Acoustic Energy Corinium speakers in the striking British Racing Green. We were pleasantly surprised with the sound straight out of the box. Even without time to run in the equipment, it was apparent that the synergy with the speakers was one to be savoured, utilising the Corinium’s natural warmth and their own inherent clean and warm signature sound to produce a wide and natural soundstage and sound, almost making the speakers disappear completely!

The Advance Paris X-P700 (Right) and the X-A160EVO (left)

Now you might expect these items, especially with what I described above, to be rather costly, however this is thankfully not the case. Each unit costs a modest £1,500*, meaning that you can have a separate pre and power system for a fraction of what you thought it would cost! And asides from the affordable price points, the pre-amplifier is chock full of various features and settings to play with.

X-P700 Preamp

The X-P700 has an extensive range of inputs, both analogue and digital, that meet the requirements of most, if not all listeners. This includes a switchable phono stage that allows you to use either an MM, High Output MC or Low Output MC turntable seamlessly. Also included in this is 2 optical, one coaxial and a USB input for any of your digital sources, utilising the powerhouse Burr Brown PCM 1796 DAC, capable of converting digital files/sources all the way up to 24bit/192kHz without breaking a sweat.

Other connections include a total of seven RCA inputs (excluding the phono input), an RCA record out for the tape enthusiasts and even a balanced XLR input for any of those pesky sources that only have XLR outputs.

But enough about the plethora of inputs, let's discuss the outputs. And this preamp has plenty for you to choose from. Starting with the obvious, you have both RCA and XLR outputs to go to your power amp or active speakers, a 3.5mm and 6.3mm headphone output, and it also has 2 LFE subwoofer outputs, meaning you can have a stereo pair of subwoofers for your system. Now isn't that neat?

You can also add an optional Bluetooth Receiver to the dedicated port on the rear of the unit. I could talk about the full features of this product for hours, but you can find them here to discover at your own pace.

X-A160EVO Power Amp

Now onto the X-A160EVO power amplifier, and there isn't as much to say about this unit as as it is simply a no-frills powerhouse - No French lace here!

What we can talk about however, is the power output, which sits at a very impressive 160 watts per channel into 8 Ohms on Class A/B, meaning this power amplifier can comfortably drive arguably most speakers you decide to pair with it. But despite it being Class A/B, this beast doesn't run very warm at all, not unless you switch on its High Bias mode.

The High Bias mode is quite interesting, as the difference it makes to the sound is indistinguishable when listening at high volumes, however it shines through at lower levels. Essentially, flicking this mode on turns the amplifier into a pseudo-Class A amp.

I found that this mode cleans up some of the audio at lower levels, bringing out the bass a bit more and also making the mids and tops a little sweeter.

One of Advance Paris’ signature features is the beautiful VU meters. Both light up in a nice, cool blue LED (Which can be dimmed or even turned off).

Conclusion

The X-P700 Preamp and X-A160EVO Power Amp from Advance Paris make a fantastic pair for anyone serious about high-quality audio. The X-P700 offers precise control and super clean signal handling, ensuring your music sounds just right. The X-A160EVO Power Amp packs a serious punch, delivering powerful and clear sound thanks to its advanced design. Together, they create an amazing listening experience that's rich, detailed, and immersive. For those who want to take their audio setup to the next level, this combo is a top-notch choice that won't disappoint. But why take my word for it?

If you have any further queries on these products, or would like to book a demonstration to listen to these or any Advance Paris products, don't be afraid to call us and ask/request!

Thanks for reading

Tiago - Audio T Southampton.

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

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

---

Advance Paris can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• ONLINE STORE

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

Creativity At It's Finest - A Look at Michell Engineering.

Hello fellow audio enthusiasts, and welcome to another blog from Audio T Southampton. The topic of this month’s article is all about the incredible Michell Engineering, the creators of the world-renowned Michell Gyro SE. In this blog we will be taking a look at their history, and then discussing two of their turntables that we currently have in stock for demonstration. So, without much further ado, let's take a dive into the history of Michell Engineering…

John Michell working at his test bench

Start at the beginning

Our story begins in 1966, when an engineer by the name of John Michell started a new company producing scale models for use in movies, as well as engineering components for local firms. His business expanded quickly, and he soon found himself in a large unit based in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.

You can see some of his earlier work in the film “2001 A Space Odyssey”, where he and Stanley Kubrick worked together on the model for the Discovery One ship.

pre-production model of the discovery one

In 1969 a turntable company known as Transcriptor contacted John, and Michell Engineering began to produce multiple parts for them.

Later on in the year Transcriptor moved into the Michell premises, though they didn't stick around for long as in 1973 they relocated to Ireland. However it wasn't all in vain for John, who took over the manufacturing of their stunning Hydraulic Reference Turntable.

An original transcriptor hydraulic reference turntable.

Progress comes with experience…

1977 was a truly significant year for Michell Engineering, as this was when John began manufacturing his own turntable – the extremely rare Michell Reference Electronic Turntable. This originally came with a black base, though later during its production Michell offered two alternative choices; either a mirrored or a marble base. But this wasn't the only thing that came out of Michell, for John had something of a breakthrough and invented the record clamp, which a large variety of other manufacturers have now followed suit and adopted.

an original michell reference electronic in the fabled black.

An icon is born…

Moving forward to 1982, we see something truly revolutionary for Michell Engineering, more so than the previous turntable; this was the creation of the GyroDec. Originally fitted with a heavy aluminium platter that featured a rubber mat and the signature gold platter weights below, this unit really took the world by storm.

1989 saw Michell introduce a new upgrade, the Gyropower QC; a much more silent and efficient method of supplying power to their turntables. In 1995 something very exciting was released in the form of the new flagship Orbe Turntable; created after the monumental success of the GyroDec created a lot of requests and feedback that the company elevate themselves to new higher grounds. The Orbe features significant engineering changes over the GyroDec, making the Orbe the true high-end turntable from Michell Engineering.

The first rendition of the gyrodec.

In 2002 John became seriously ill, forcing him to take a step back to recover whilst his family ran the business for him. During this time John invented multiple things from the comfort of his own home, including the TecnoDec, the TecnoArm, Techno Weight and many more. However, sadly on the 23rd of October 2003 John died, leaving behind a great legacy, an amazing company and a loving family.

The family continues to offer the world near unrivalled performance for the price paid, and even to this day Michell Engineering are synonymous with fantastic design and magnificent sound.

The true flagship from michell, the orbe.

Now that we have had a look at the history of Michell, let's dive into two of their notable turntables, these being the TecnoDec and the GyroDec, both units that we have in stock at our Southampton branch.

A Look Into The TecnoDec

The Michell TecnoDec is a fantastic mid-range turntable, perfect for those seeking a beautiful sound without parting with all of their savings in one fell swoop. The variant we have in-store is the one featuring a T2i Tonearm and the Goldring E3 Moving Magnet Cartridge, which would set you back a very reasonable £2,000* in total. With the classic Michell Engineering design of keeping the motor and power supply separate from the plinth to minimise vibrations, the TecnoDec is a superb turntable.

Truthfully when I first laid eyes on it, I thought it would be a very good deck, however I wasn't prepared for the level of sound that I received. Each note hit perfectly, and the deck's simple design means using it is a breeze. Offering a lovely clear and open sound signature, the TecnoDec is a magnificent addition to any system, especially for those seeking to begin their record collection and who need a turntable which will unlock the secrets the records contain.

The michell tecnodec

Up A Notch To The GyroDec

And now onto the stunning Michell GyroDec. Featuring the T8 tonearm and Michell’s own Cusis S Moving Coil Cartridge, this setup sits at a strong £6,800* total. To my mind there is no doubt as to why the GyroDec is world-renowned, each note being reproduced perfectly and clearly. I know it’s a cliché but I really did hear things in some tracks that previously I did not know where there.

I had guessed that the GyroDec was going to be a brilliant addition to the Southampton store, however nothing could have prepared me for the sheer level of detail and clarity provided, alongside the gorgeous design. The cartridge was simply sublime, a perfect pairing for the rest of the turntable. So much so that this has now become my all-time personal favourite, and is one I would strongly suggest everyone listen to at some point.

The two SE models; the Gyro SE and the orbe se.

And that is all I have for you. Just a brief introduction into Michell alongside my own personal thoughts on both units. If you would like to listen to these, then please contact our Southampton store for further details.

Thanks for reading

Tiago - Audio T Southampton.

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

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

---

Michell can be found at the following Audio T stores

• CARDIFF

• MANCHESTER

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

A Newcomer To The Oldest Hi-Fi Show In England!

As someone who is fairly new to the Hi-Fi industry, and who is also relatively young compared to the average audiophile, you could assume a prestigious event such as the Bristol Show Hi-Fi Show to be quite overwhelming for me, but it was quite the contrary!

In this article I will be taking a brief look at my first experience at the Bristol Show, along with what enticed me whilst there and what the whole show was like overall.

Linn’s Spectacular room at the show!

As many of you will undoubtedly know, the Bristol Show has been running for 37 years now, hosted by Audio T at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol. This show is an auspicious opportunity for manufacturers to showcase what new and exciting equipment they have to offer. There are around 80 different exhibitors that come along for the weekend, anywhere from long-standing powerhouses such as Rega, Linn and Naim, to new and exciting first-time exhibitors like Advance Paris.

Rega’s room, showcasing the new ND7 cartridge and upcoming pre/power!

New to the bristol hi-fi show and audio t - Advance Paris.

As I previously mentioned, I am rather new to the world of Hi-Fi, and when I first heard about the show, I was both very intrigued and excited, but also quite nervous in a sense. Safe to say, I found the show to be a fantastic event with the rare opportunity of being able to see so many great brands and industry professionals in one place.

Left to right: Farid from audio t Cheltenham, James from audio T Bristol and myself, TIAGO, from Audio T Southampton

The Bristol Show was quite the eye-opening experience for me, giving me the ability to check out different makes & brands that I haven’t previously experienced and seeing what new and exciting things they had in store for the upcoming year.

The best part of the show for me though was being able to meet some of the minds that designed and built all of the fantastic kit being displayed, allowing me to pick their brains as to their thought process during the R&D end of creating all this equipment. Even though I spend my days surrounded by Hi-Fi and Home Cinema, I found the show gave me the opportunity to learn a lot of new things, and also a great opportunity to experience brands and equipment we don’t necessarily see in Audio T Southampton.

In addition to the array of incredible audio equipment on display, there are also several record vendors present, offering new and used LPs and CDs. The opportunity to browse through their selection added a unique dimension to the event. It's not uncommon for attendees, including myself, to leave the show with a few records in hand, ready to enrich their music collection.

Diverse Vinyl is a great stall to find a few records to fill your free tote bag

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the Bristol Hi-Fi Show, and I am very excited to go back next year! If you have any doubts about attending the Show, let me be the first to tell you that it is a very worthwhile experience for any music lover!

Thanks for reading

Tiago - Audio T Southampton.

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

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

---

The Bristol Hi-Fi Show will return - Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd February 2025

A look at the AURALiC Vega G2.2 Streaming DAC

Established in 2009, AURALiC has become a well established company known for driving innovation in high-performance music reproduction technology for over a decade. Inspired by a Berliner Philharmoniker concert in Waldbühne Berlin in 2008, AURALiC's founders, passionate classical music enthusiasts, embarked on a journey to create a company dedicated to providing a genuinely high-resolution music streaming solution. This vision materialized over the following years.

Having used AURALiC products as part of my main Hi-Fi system I was eager to get my hands on the updated Vega G2.2 to assess what improvements have been made and to see what the latest incarnation of Vega could do

The VEGA G2.2 retains key features such as:

• AURALiC’s proprietary Fusion DAC structure

• Direct Data Recording (DDR)

• Galvanic Isolation

• Passive analog volume control

• Analog preamplifier

VEGA G2.2 now incorporates:

• Tesla G3 platform, providing a significant boost to processing power and capabilities.

• HDMI (eARC) input (needs release of firmware V10)

• A new dual 60fs Femto Clocks powers the DAC operation and time the Tesla G3's data output to the DAC.

I didn’t put the Vega G2.2 into a stack of other AURALiC products such as the Aries or Leo; instead I used it as the main engine of a minimalist system set-up that would discreetly grace any room.

This type of set up can be further minimised by having a pair of Active speakers such as ATC SCM40A.

I added a Chord Electronics Etude power amplifier and a Pair of Harbeth P3ESR XD loudspeakers to the Vega G2.2 and I connected an optical cable from the TV - although when the new software is released, an HDMI (eARC) connection would be used.

An Apple Remote control was set up with the AURALiC to allow control of the volume and input selection. The Vega can be mapped to any remote with a wide range of functions.

The AURALiC system is very easy to use with the lightening app (Apple only), however it can also be set up using any web browser set to the IP address of the Vega.

AURALiC recommends Bubble UPnP or DS, Linn's Kazoo or Lumin if you do not use the proprietary lightening App.

Vega has a comprehensive streaming capability although I opted for using it as a ROON endpoint.

There are numerous reviews of the Vega G2.2 which confirm the high regard that this product has with the critics.

Part-Time Audiophile

‘At the beginning of this review, I said that I had been searching for something as I bought other DACs. The honest answer is that I was searching for the sound the AURALiC Vega G2 gave me. What I found with the AURALiC Vega G2.2 was everything I loved about the original, but simply more of it, more detail, more space, more realism’

Hi -FI news

‘This is another worthwhile upgrade for AURALiC's Vega model, the G2.2 gaining even greater clarity and clout with everything from driving rock to complex classical music. As a network player you can just slot it into your system as you would, say, a CD player.’

The Ear

‘The bass is a clear strongpoint, it extends all the way down and has a degree of articulation and shape that indicates that the AURALiC is a first class converter, most DACs can do powerful bass but fewer are able to show you the full attack and decay of each note with this degree of clarity.’

‘That it also works well as a digital and analogue preamp is a real bonus, partnered with a sympathetic power amp or active speakers you don’t need anything else to set up a top notch streaming system if you have an account with Qobuz or similar.’

Final thoughts…

Having initially listened to the Vega G2.1 and then inserting the Vega 2.2 into the system, it immediately became apparent that regardless of the music it just gave more clarity, soundstage and depth to the music. It is not a revolution but it is a marked upgrade.

My current playlist including Lankum, Lisa O’Neil, Fergus McCeadie, Corto.Alto, has never sounded better through a one box streamer.

This demonstrated to me the flexibility of incorporating AURALiC into any system and I would whole heartily recommend a demonstration to see what it can add to your system.

Thanks for reading

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…

---

AURALiC can be found at the following Audio T stores

• ONLINE STORE

• SOUTHAMPTON

Shutting Off The World With Noise Cancelling Headphones!

Good tidings audiophiles! I am sure most (if not all) of you have used headphones before, and I imagine many of you use them in your daily lives as well. As an avid headphones user myself, I have used a myriad of different brands and types, including some of the more exotic styles!

In this article, I will be briefly talking about Bluetooth headphones in particular, and what my experiences have been with the ones I have used. I will also go over the pros of the headphones I used for the purpose of this blog, and will be including two honourable mentions as well!

But first, I wanted to tell you why having a pair of good ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) Bluetooth headphones is so crucial in this day and age, and it all comes down to your day-to-day life. If, like me, you are someone who enjoys a daily walk or prefers to take public transport, you will know that the world can be rather noisy, with so many other people and vehicles going here, there and everywhere! So listening to your favourite tracks whilst out on your business for the day can be difficult, and sometimes unenjoyable. With a pair of high quality noise cancelling headphones, all of those issues I mentioned above would all but disappear, allowing your music to shine a lot brighter and clearer.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e

The first pair of headphones that I trialed whilst writing this blog were the brand new Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e Bluetooth ANC headphones. I was simply blown away by them. They also come with a USB-C to USB-C cable if you want to make use of the internal DAC, by-passing the Bluetooth element entirely! Below you can find a list of pros for the headphones!

Pros

⦁ The B&Ws were quite comfortable to wear, providing a nice tight fit around my head. Meaning, of course, that they wouldn't slip/shake off!

⦁ The ANC works extremely well to mute the outside world, making the music I was listening to whilst out and about really able to sing.

⦁ The headphones have a very tight and punchy bass, which worked fantastically for the music I was listening to at the time, whilst still providing clear vocals and beautiful highs.

⦁ Headphones can be customised for your listening pleasure via use of the Bowers & Wilkins app!

Focal Bathys

Focal Bathys

Next up I tried the Focal Bathys, and I was thoroughly impressed by them! Same as the PX7 S2e headphones, these also come equipped with a USB-C to USB-C cable to make use of the fantastic inbuilt DAC.

Pros

⦁ The Focals were very comfortable to wear, providing a good balance of a tight fit and comfort.

⦁ The ANC was simply phenomenal, shutting almost everything away other than the occasional loud car. Combined with the tight and comfortable fit, it helped me to beter focus on my music.

⦁ The overall sound was quite fantastic in all, not too much bass whilst providing a fantastic amount of detail to everything I was listening to.

⦁ Using the Focal & Naim app, I was able to almost fully customise my listening experience. From changing the EQ to whatever suited my needs and desires, all the way to creating a sound profile perfect for my hearing capabilities, boosting any frequencies that my ears may have struggled with previously.

Honourable Mentions

Now, through the course of me trying out these different headphones, there are a couple that I wish I had the opportunity to trial, however I was limited to what we had in store at the time. However, it is still worth mentioning these brilliant headphones.

Sennheiser Accentum

Sennheiser Accentum

First on the list are the newly-released Sennheiser Accentum headphones. These have been receiving very good reviews online, and being Sennheiser they are bound to be good value for your money!

Once again sporting Bluetooth and ANC, you can almost guarantee that your day to day activities would run smoothly without any distractions!

Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 4

Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 4

The other pair of headphones I wanted to mention are the Sennheiser Momentum Wireless 4. These aren't as new as the others, however they are still reviewed and regarded as some of the best Bluetooth and ANC headphones currently available.

And that's all from me today! If you are on the hunt for a decent pair of Bluetooth ANC headphones for your day-to-day activities, then I consider the four mentioned to be some of the very best!

If you are on the market for something else though, or you have more questions about the headphones themselves, don't hesitate to give us a call!

Thanks for reading

Tiago - Audio T Southampton.

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

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

---

Bowers & Wilkins can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

Focal can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• MANCHESTER

• ONLINE STORE

• READING

• SWANSEA

• SOUTHAMPTON

Sennheiser can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• MANCHESTER

• ONLINE STORE

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWINDON

SUMIKO Has Landed at Audio T Southampton

Here at Audio T Southampton, we like to think we have a pretty good knowledge of the brands available in the Hi-Fi market, but once in a very rare while, we’re caught off guard and get introduced to something completely new…

We first came across SUMIKO here in the Southampton store when a customer walked through the door and asked if we could supply them with one of their cartridges. We were initially a bit taken aback as we had not heard of SUMIKO before, but boy are we glad we do now.

We were intrigued by this ellusive brand and ordered in three products from their range - Two moving magnet and one moving coil.

I went out to a customers house with the Blue Point No3 Moving Coil model in hand to put it up against his current cartridge on his Michell Gyrodec. It’s safe to say that the SUMIKO blew his cartridge away! I was amazed at how much detail and depth it had in comparison. It changed the whole soundstage of his Gyrodec. It sounded much more open and you could hear every note cleanly. We tried a few different albums from Elvis and The Beach Boys to classics like Pink Floyd’s Dark Side Of The Moon and Dire Straight's’ Brothers In Arms.

I left the customer with a new cartridge and huge smile on his face, and in all honesty, I couldn’t hide my large grin either.

I have since tried different SUMIKO cartridges on a few different turntables in store, and each time I am amazed at the way it breathes new life into each one!

A brief history of SUMIKO

For over 40 years, SUMIKO have provided an array of phono pick-up cartridges to discerning audio enthusiasts around the world. Boasting a portfolio of products that touches all price points and technologies.

David Fletcher with “the arm”

SUMIKO was founded in 1972 in Japan by three people, notably of which was American theoretical physicist David Fletcher. Before he co-founded SUMIKO he used to work for the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California, working on various different research projects. Unfortunately David Fletcher passed away early into 2021 at the age of 81.

Fun Fact: SUMIKO was named after one of the founders' wives.

MDC 800 Tonearm and Talisman A Cartridge

In the early days of SUMIKO they used to provide two services; the first being the import side of the business with introducing new and different brands to North America, ranging from Koetsu, Grace and many more. The other aspect of SUMIKO company is what they are primarily known for these days; that being, their spectacular cartridges, starting with the Talisman MC cartridges of which there were four: A, B, S and the Virtuoso. Another one of their founding products was the MDC 800 Tonearm, appropriately nicknamed "The Arm".

The RAINIER MM and Palo Santos MC Cartridges

Nowadays SUMIKO focus on their range of cartridges, with them now producing two different ranges, from the Oyster Series featuring the Rainier MM cartridges, all the way to the phenomenal Reference Series and the stunning Palo Santos Presentation Moving Coil Cartridge.

It really is a travesty that SUMIKO is not as well known here in the UK as they deserve to be. Superb quality at a lower price than a lot of their competitors. For us it was a no brainer to start stocking these and absolutely sing their praises.

If you’re interested in hearing one of these great cartridges or want to know more about their range please don't hesitate to give us a call and arrange a demonstration.

Thanks for Reading

Wayne - 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…

---

SUMIKO can be found at the following Audio T stores

• SOUTHAMPTON

Audio streaming - What’s it all about?

Where do we start? Well, audio streaming is commonly misunderstood, as the terminology is misused and incorrect assumptions are made, leading to confusion and propagation of misinformation. We’re here to break it down and make it simpler to understand by outlining:

• What is audio streaming?

• What are the types of audio streaming?

• Systems applications

• Streaming services

• Types of Music files

• System elements of a streamer

• What do I need

• What is audio streaming

So, without further ado, let’s get started…

What is audio streaming?

Audio streaming is the ability to digitally transfer audio data between the place it is stored to a place where it can be heard. A common example of this would be playing music files from a smartphone to a wireless speaker. But how does it work? What method is used to transfer this data?…

What are the types of Audio streaming?

Bluetooth - Bluetooth is a short range wireless technology that is commonly used in phones and headphones. There are many variants of the protocol and you will need the transmitter and receiver to be capable of the latest protocol to get the highest quality. Bluetooth in general is a lossy protocol, which means the quality is less than CD and subject to higher degrees of compression. Not to mention it is occasionally prone to dropouts and interference.

AirPlay - AirPlay is a proprietary wireless communication protocol developed by Apple that allows streaming of audio & video between devices over a Local Area Network abbreviated to LAN (Wifi and Ethernet). Originally implemented only in Apple's software and devices, it was called AirTunes and used for audio only.

Apple AirPlay icons found on apps that support the protocol

Although a convenient and easy protocol, it has limitations on the quality of the audio it uses. AirPlay 2 is able to support a multiroom and there are many devices that support AirPlay such as Sonos, Naim and Bluesound.

Chromecast - This was developed by Google as an answer to Apple’s AirPlay and works over a LAN. The latest version supports audio files of 24bit 96kHz.

Google Cast is a proprietary protocol developed by Google for playing Internet-streamed audio/video content on a compatible consumer device

Some systems have Chromecast support built-in, such as Cyrus ONE Cast and Arcam ST60 to name but a few.

Cyrus one cast streaming amplifier

uPnP Streaming - Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) allows for files to be passed between a storage device and a compatible player. Smartphone apps such as Bubble allow for the control of media being played.

Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect allow you to stream your music to any Connect-enabled device over WiFi and directly from the streaming services servers to your audio device.

System applications

To enable control over your selection of music sources such as streaming services or playback devices, manufacturers utilise interactive applications that run on smartphones, tablets and computers.

Common System platforms:

HEOS - HEOS is a wireless multi-room sound system from Denon & Marantz that allows users to play their favorite music using a home Wifi network. The audio platform is available through receivers, select wireless speakers, and soundbars from the two brands.

Bluesound BluOS - Although originally designed specifically for use with Bluesound products, BluOS has become integrated with many hi-res wireless music systems from the likes of Roksan, Cyrus, DALI and Monitor Audio. This provides a unique opportunity to connect multiple BluOS-enabled systems from different manufacturers together to enjoy your music in perfect sync in every room of your home.

Bluesound bluos app

Manufacturers such as Arcam, AURALiC, Naim, Linn, Innuos, Sonos all use their own specifically developed applications that are unique to their own products.

Roon Labs - Roon brings all your music together, so you don't have to worry about where it's stored, what format it's in, or where you stream it from. Roon supports music files stored on internal and external hard drives and NAS, your iTunes library, live radio stations, and streamed content from the likes of TIDAL and Qobuz.

Steaming services

There are numerous internet streaming services that have different catalogues, types of music file (quality) and subscription plans. Some of the most popular are -

• Spotify (Try Premium for 90 days Free Here)

• Apple Music

• Amazon Music (Try for 90 days Free Here)

• Tidal (Try for 30 days Free Here)

• Qobuz (Try for 90 days Free Here)

• Deezer (Try for 30 days Free Here)

• TuneIn (used for internet radio on a multitude of systems)

Types of Music file

When storing files there a lots of different formats. Lossless audio is assumed to be the same quality as CD.

• Uncompressed audio formats e.g: WAV and AIFF

• Formats with lossless compression e.g: FLAC, ALAC, WMA LOSSLESS

• Formats with lossy compression e.g: MP3, AAC, WMA

Hi-Res Music - High-Resolution Audio is audio that uses a higher sampling rate than in CDs. Higher sampling rates mean that more samples per second were taken when the original analog sound was converted into digital which in turn gives a more accurate reproduction of the analogue signal.

System elements for streaming

Storage - Audio files can be stored in a number of ways. These include:

• NAS (Network Attached Storage)

• Storage Server - Such as the following…

  • Bluesound Vault 2i

  • Melco

  • Naim Uniti Core

  • Roon Nucleus Servers

  • Innuos Zen & Zenith Servers

• External USB Hard Drive

• SD Memory card

“Ripping” is a term for taking the content of a CD and storing it on a digital storage device. This allows for people to store their entire CD collection on a small device. There are many devices that allow for combined ripping and storage solution such as the Naim Uniti Star, Bluesound Vault 2i, Innuos Zen range and products from Melco.

Streaming Transport - A streaming transport allows for locally stored files and internet streaming services to be used. The transport only deals with digital audio and does not have any analogue output.

DAC - A DAC (Digital Analogue Converter) converts a digital signal to analogue audio. These can be built in to components or bought as dedicated units that come in all shapes and sizes, from the small and portable EarMen Sparrow Pocket DAC all the way up to the AURALiC Vega G2.1 Streaming DAC and even further beyond. You can see a full range of DACs on our website here.

External Clock - An external clock usually connects to your equipment using word clock connections, typically using BNC cables, and provides a more stable and accurate clock to improve the sound of DACs. There are exceptions to this, like the award winning Innuos PhoenixUSB Clocker, which as its name suggests connects via USB.

Upscaler - Upscaling (or upsampling) is a process which increases the resolution and quality of a digital file. Examples of these products are the Chord Electronics M Scaler and the AURALiC Sirius.

What do I need?

The answer to this question needs an understanding of what is required. This could be from wirelessly playing music from your phone to a speaker, or the best way to reproduce digital music from your audio streaming provider.

At Audio T we can guide you through the process so you find a solution that meets your needs and gets the most of your system. There is no such thing as a stupid question so ask away and we will be happy to take you through the world of digital audio.

Thanks for reading,

Nick, John and Wayne - 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.

You can find out more about Lyngdorf and their history by reading a full article in Music at Home+ Spring 2023.

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…

Making streaming easy with AURALiC

First founded in 2008, AURALiC has established a worldwide reputation for designing beautifully made, innovative music streaming and audio components of the highest quality – a combination of classic analogue technology and cutting edge digital evolution with a design aesthetic. Here at Audio T Southampton, we have been big fans of AURALiC and their range of high quality streamers and digital source components since we first saw and heard them in store a few years ago. With their product range rapidly developing and widening in that time, here's a timely reminder of their offerings, most of which we now have on demonstration in our store…

Straight out of the box, the first thing you’ll notice is that all the products in the range are all impeccably engineered and encased in high quality alloy casework. Whilst there is a strong visual similarity between the models there are distinct differences. So here's a brief rundown to help you decide which product best suits your needs…

AURALiC Altair Digital Audio Streamer

The Altair Digital Audio Streamer, with its robust Wi-Fi connectivity and analog output, is a clean and powerful one-box solution for all your digital music. It offers a vast number of features and functions, allowing you to stream music from virtually any source.

You can play from locally stored files on your network, a USB drive, an optional integrated hard drive, as well as AirPlay 2 or Bluetooth sources. AURALiC’s Lightning Streaming Platform integrates natively with services like Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal, KKBOX, Internet Radio, and Spotify Connect.

As you can see, the Altair has a comprehensive range of digital inputs and both RCA and XLR analogue outputs, meaning it is ideal to serve as a digital front end component connected to a stereo power amp or even directly into a pair of active speakers.

---

AURALiC Aries Streaming Transport

The Aries Streaming Transport is the ideal solution for connection to an external DAC or amplifier with digital inputs. It's a high quality streaming transport with state of the art wireless technology.

On a personal note, I actually use an Aries G1 myself and I'm delighted with the performance when streaming Qobuz high resolution music into my Cyrus Pre-XR via USB.

On the rear of the Aries, you’ll find that almost all digital output options are catered for, plus provision for external USB storage connectivity.

Designed for ease of use, crystal-clear sound, and highly flexible system configuration, the Altair brings high-performance, cutting-edge technology and incredible value to any high-fidelity music system.

---

AURALiC Vega Streaming DAC

The Vega is first and foremost a performance-focused DAC that utilises AURALiC’s best digital to analogue technology for optimum sound quality. Ethernet connection is used for online streaming services. Vega is also a Roon ready endpoint.

Every aspect of the Vega’s engineering has been designed to push the boundaries of sonic performance, reshaping data into a vibrant, emotionally rewarding musical performance.

Taking a peek around the back, the extensive socketry includes an analogue input enabling you to connect the output from your phono stage for vinyl playback.

For those seeking ultimate performance and extra streaming features, AURALiC recommend combining the Vega alongside an Aries .

---

Making sense of G1 and G2…

For the uninitiated, the varying options of the same model might seem confusing. G1 products tend to have more cost-effective specifications whilst still offering all the same software features as the G2 range.

G2 indicates AURALiC’s top specification, state of the art products, incorporating unique technology such as Lightning Link - A HDMI-type plug which offers 18Gbps high-speed data transfer and provides ultra-fast two-way communication between AURALiC products such as Sirius Upsampling Processor and Leo Reference Master Clock. AURALiC actually claim that Lightning Link is the only real jitter-free link in the world of high-performance audio. As an added bonus, G2 and G2.1 products can be linked without worry, allowing them to work seamlessly, as one contiguous digital source for an astonishing musical experience.

One of the more impressive physical attributes featured within G2 products is the Galvanic Isolation found as part of the Unity chassis - a double enclosure, where an outer case made from high-grade aluminum is supplemented with an inner layer of copper. You’ll also find other improvements such as analogue ladder volume control and Orfeo Class A output modules.

Products designated .1 and .2 are hardware upgrades to existing models whilst retaining the same core functions. For example AURALiC have just released Aries G1.1 and Altair G1.1. The key differences are that both products now have the high mass base from G2.1 models to improve vibration damping and enhance sonic performance. Support for AirPlay 2 has also been added.

It’s also worth noting that the Aries G1.1 now has the option of internal storage as well as an improved Femto clock and a more powerful headphone amplifier. The retail price on either model is currently £2499.00*.

All AURALiC products incorporate open home based streaming with Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay 2 and are Roon ready. The AURALiC Lightning DS IOS app seamlessly integrates with Amazon Music Unlimited, Qobuz, Tidal and with NAS music playback, optional internal storage as well as USB drives. Resolution up to 32 bit 384 khz and DSD 512 are supported via ethernet or Wi-Fi.

For anyone who is prepared to forego the upgrades, we currently have a few low usage ex-demonstration models of both the Aries G1 and Altair G1. These products are in excellent condition, complete with boxes and all accessories and full warranty for £1839.00! That's a very substantial saving of £460.00*. But hurry, once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Thanks for reading

Alan, Wayne and 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…

---

*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

A fond farewell to PMC's Tom Barron

Many things have changed in the thirty six years (gulp!) I have worked at Audio T (formerly Hampshire Audio) in Chandlers Ford. There have been numerous ups and downs in the world of hi-fi but one very positive constant over all these decades has been Tom Barron of PMC. Tom is finally about to begin his well earned retirement, despite encouragement, indeed pleading, that he doesn't go! So rather than focus solely on hi-fi products in this article, I'd like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you and a very fond farewell to Tom.

Tom Barron

It was very early in my life sentence (joke!?) in Chandlers Ford when Tom made his first appearance as the new Rotel rep.  He soon won us over with his cheery banter and I'm sure ours wasn't the only hi-fi shop in which Tom managed to carry out a sneaky full Rotel stock take on every visit, presenting a 'just sign here' order list for items he assured us we just couldn't do without!  He wasn't wrong.  Rotel products like the RA820BX amp and RCD965BX CD player were hi-fi bargains and sold like hot cakes.

Tom and I are close enough in age to have both grown up (?) during the heyday of Monty Python. They were simpler and, in many ways, more amusing times. Python's influence was deeply ingrained and I recall many phone calls to Tom along the lines of:

' 'Ello Miss. What do you mean “miss”? I'm sorry, I have a cold... etc'

and (very) occasionally... 'I wish to register a complaint'...

As the millenium approached change was afoot. In 1999 Hampshire Audio was taken over by Audio T. Tom also had a new boss. Founder of PMC, and lifelong friend, Peter Thomas, persuaded Tom to become his first sales manager and Tom was soon clocking up more miles nationwide demonstrating the new FB1 (literally floorstanding box 1), PMC's first domestic audiophile speaker. This was soon followed by DB1, GB1, TB1, OB1, not forgetting Wafers. A Python reference again, of course.

Peter Thomas of PMC and Tom

It was always worth phoning PMC just to be put on hold and hear John Cleese ranting 'He's a stiff! Bereft of life, he rests in peace! If you hadn't nailed him to the perch he'd be pushing up the daisies!' So much better than cheesy muzak!

PMC speakers are great, thanks to Peter's brilliant designs, incorporating PMC's trademarked Advanced Transmission Line which ensured open natural sound and extended bass from even the smallest models in the range like the current Twenty5 21i.

However, Peter would be the first to admit that Tom's enthusiasm and dedication to PMC was instrumental to the success of the brand.

Tom's popularity has extended well beyond the PMC dealer base. Anyone who has attended a hi-fi show or store event will almost certainly have come across Tom. His exuberance, passion for music and masterful demonstration skills have ensured that he has been the public face of PMC for many years.

But, time waits for no one. I was sat in The Hexagon recently with my wife and eldest son watching my granddaughter in a concert and reminiscing that the last time I was at this venue was with Tom and his family enjoying a Mary Chapin Carpenter concert, circa 1992. Tom's sons were very young, as were mine, at the time. It's scary to think that both pairs of 'boys' are now as old, if not older, than I was then. Even my work colleague here, Wayne was then only nine years old…

…Where did all the time go...?

Tom with me on his final visit to Audio T Southampton

Happy retirement Tom.

P.S. If anyone ever attacks you with a raspberry, just pull the lever and the 16-ton weight will fall on top of them.

Thanks for reading

Alan and Wayne - 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…

---

PMC Loudspeakers can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• ENFIELD

• PORTSMOUTH

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWINDON

Chord Electronics and Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series take over Audio T Southampton

There’s no Bristol Show this year so we are delighted to announce that we will be hosting our own mini Hi-Fi show at Audio T in Southampton. Our store may be mini sized but that won’t stop us from showcasing some really big performers from Chord Electronics and Bowers & Wilkins 800 series! These two premium brands will be taking over our store on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February. We’ll also have a giveaway and exclusive offers and deals!

Hugo TT2, M-scaler and TToby

We will have a number of audio solutions from Chord Electronics in store for your listening pleasure, including the compact but highly capable table top Hugo TT2, M-scaler and TToby pictured above.

Mojo 2

We are very excited that we will have the brand new Mojo 2 here with some high quality headphones for you to listen to! The original Mojo was a great portable DAC and headphone amp but Mojo 2 is truly amazing! This will be the first chance for many people to hear this world class product!

Chord electronics DAVE DAC/HEadphone amp

Our resident DAVE, Chord Electronics’ high end DAC and headphone amplifier will definitely be on demonstration, with a range of power amplifiers including Etude, Ultima 6 and Ultima 5.

Chord Electronics Ultima 6 power amplifier

As well as all of these power amplifiers and DACs, we are delighted to welcome Maurice Tryner from Chord Electronics, who will be joining us for both days to present their impressive and extensive product range and… He will be bringing along a pair of mighty Ultima 3 mono power amplifiers! These 480 watt powerhouses will be the ideal match for the flagship Bowers & Wilkins 800 series speakers, the awesome 801 D4!

Bowers & wilkins 801 D4 accompanied by the Chord Electronics Ultima 6 power amplifier

If 801 D4 are just a little too big or a tad too expensive, we also have B&W 805 D4 and 804 D4 in store to pair up with the various Chord digital and analogue electronics solutions we will be showcasing.

As if all this isn’t enough, Chord Electronics have generously agreed to offer a Huei MM/MC phono stage as the prize in a draw for attendees! It’s a stunning, and very versatile phono preamp worth £995 so a great prize for the lucky winner!

As our store is so compact and bijou, we are booking hourly time slots for our customers. It avoids overcrowding, ensures that you get to see and hear the products which most interest you, and gives you the best one to one experience with Maurice’s undivided attention.

This event has already attracted a lot of attention and is booking up quickly so please email or call us soon.

Thanks for reading

Alan and Wayne - Audio T Southampton

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening at Audio T Southampton by following us on Facebook and Instagram

Chord Electronics can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• MANCHESTER

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• ONLINE STORE

Bowers & Wilkins can be found at the following Audio T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• ENFIELD

• MANCHESTER

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE

ISOTEK V5 AQUARIUS CLEANS UP AT AUDIO T SOUTHAMPTON!

Here at Audio T Southampton, we are longtime fans of IsoTek and their range of power optimisation solutions. We have many long standing customers whose Hi-Fi and Home Cinema systems have been dramatically improved with the addition of IsoTek products. So when we were given the opportunity to try the brand new V5 Aquarius, we jumped at the chance…

IsoTek V5 Aquarius is available in black or silver

Just another mains box?

The original IsoTek Aquarius was arguably one of the most cost-effective power cleaning upgrades money could buy. The new V5 model builds on the Aquarius concept and takes it to a higher level.

This all new design is presented in a stylish, smooth, solid casework with no visible fasteners. A simple, yet effective style choice that looks very classy indeed. Hewn from a single block of aluminum and measuring 450mm in width, 350mm deep and 110mm high.

The V5 Aquarius isn’t packaged with your standard, cheap and cheerful IEC lead. IsoTek also include their award winning Evo3 Premier mains cable in the box as standard.

The Design

The V5 features a new circuit that offers twice the inductance, with a 40% increase in current leading to a more open sound stage, micro dynamics and detail with more immediate timing. Improved Direct Current Resistance (DCR) has been applied throughout the design. Part of the IsoTek goal being to reduce DCR bringing performance closer to the zero Ohms ideal, V5 Aquarius is at least 25% improved compared to its predecessor. Surge protection has been raised to an instantaneous 81,000A, offering the ultimate insurance of your cherished Hi-Fi or Home Cinema. This six-way mains power-cleaning unit sits far above the specifications of the market standard. Offering two high-current outlets that are dedicated for use with amplifiers, subwoofers and so on, with four medium-current sockets for other components such as streamers, record players and CD players. Each outlet of the V5 Aquarius has its own dedicated power-cleaning network, thus six power cleaners in one box!

Using the V5 Aquarius, you’ll find that both Differential Mode (a noise current loop) and Common Mode (a leaked signal) noise are dramatically reduced. Cross contamination of connected components is also kept to a minimum due to the multiple power cleaning stages for each output socket. Most power filters join output sockets together, running each in series. This is an error as Differential Mode Noise created by your connected electronics will cross contaminate from one output socket to the next.

The proof is in the listening…

It was fantastic to be given the opportunity to try the new Isotek V5 Aquarius in store. Opening the box revealed how well packaged this new mains conditioner is. If IsoTek put so much care in to the cardboard box, I can only imagine what wonders hide inside the chassis…

We were keen to hear V5 Aquarius in action, so without haste we built a high resolution system consisting of Auralic Aries G1 streamer as our source, a Chord Electronics M-Scaler, DAVE DAC/Pre-Amp and Ultima 6 Power Amp driving a pair of the brand new B&W 804 D4s.

It’s no surprise that this setup already sounded superb without the addition of any other peripherals, but the moment we connected the V5 Aquarius, was a game changer. The removal of mains noise and artifacts achieved by this wonderous little box can almost be likened to a window opening wider to allow more of the outside world in. the music to flow and fill the room even more effortlessly.

Over twenty years of developing clean power technology has definitely paid off with V5 Aquarius. As previously mentioned, removing differential mode noise, exacerbated by widespread use of switch-mode power supplies, and common mode noise, ever worsening due to the proliferation of RFI, has clear audio benefits, as does the sine wave correction and multiple filters. Adaptive gating ensures each connected product receives the correct level of differential filtration with no cross contamination between sockets. Two sockets are high current, designed for power amplifiers, with another four for source components and pre-amplifier.

Conclusion

In short it works amazingly well, sounds great, and looks superb too!

The V5 Aquarius is high quality design, yet highly functional and is an excellent upgrade for a complete audio or cinema system.

Should you have any questions regarding the IsoTek Aquarius V5 please contact us

Alan and Wayne - Audio T Southampton

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening at Audio T Southampton by following us on Facebook and Instagram

IsoTek can be found at the following Audio-T stores

• OXFORD

• ONLINE STORE

• SOUTHAMPTON

Don’t see your local store, but would like to discuss IsoTek? Contact Us.

CHORD BURNDY CABLES NOW AVAILABLE AT OUR SOUTHAMPTON STORE

As long term fans of both Chord Company cables and Naim Audio we are pleased to announce that we have added the Chord Burndy cables to our demonstration stock.

Anyone who has aspired to the level of Naim Classic or 500 systems, using Burndy cables for power supply connections, is already seriously committed to achieving music performance of the highest quality.

The full range of Burndy cables are now available from Chord and represent an intriguing alternative to owners of any high end Naim system.

The Chord Burndy Cables come in a SLEEK stealth-like packaging

These Burndy cables utilise Chord Company’s highest quality silver plated conductors and flagship Taylon insulation with special attention paid to screening with an acoustic braid, plus an anti-EMF braid. Chord believe this brings better resolution and transparency, without affecting Naim’s famed Pace, Rhythm and Timing. But why take their word for it? If you’d like to demonstrate the cables at home with your Naim equipment, contact us today.

Alan and Wayne - Audio T Southampton

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening at Audio T Southampton by following us on Facebook and Instagram

Naim can be found at the following Audio-T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• ENFIELD

• MANCHESTER

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

CLASSIC LINN LP12 RETURNS TO AUDIO T SOUTHAMPTON!

It's been a few years since the iconic Linn Sondek was on demo here but we are delighted that we now once more have a lovely oak plinth LP12 Majik to spin our LPs on!

IN THE BEGINNING…

Back in the early 1970s when even I was too young to work here, and many years before Wayne was born, this emporium in it's previous guise as Hampshire Audio was one of the first Hi-Fi retailers to stock the then new Linn Sondek. In the days when vinyl was king for the first time, the Linn LP12 was regarded by many as the ultimate turntable.

REVOLUTION EVOLUTION…

Ivor Tiefenbrun's precision engineered vinyl spinner was born out of his disappointment with the performance of the best decks which were available at the time. His mantra of 'Garbage in, Garbage out' soon became common parlance amongst audiophiles and changed forever the hierarchy of Hi-Fi systems. The LP12 has evolved over nearly half a century, with every component and all aspects of it's performance honed and enhanced to a remarkable degree in the ultimate Klimax version.

MUSIC FOR A LIFETIME…

All Sondeks, even the oldest, are able to be upgraded to current specifications. How many other 50 year old products does that apply to…? The recent Karousel bearing is a massive upgrade and indicative of Linn’s continuing commitment to the longevity of their classic turntable.

SUITS YOU SIR!

Our new demo LP12 Majik looks great in it's oak plinth. Other finishes are available, even custom painted and monogrammed options can be made to order now. Any colour you like with your initials! Tempted?!

The Project Arm fitted with Linn Adikt MM cartridge sound great but we can't wait for the new Linn Krane arm to arrive to fully complete the package!

LINN, REGA OR MICHELL?

It's great to have a choice of top quality turntables in store once more. What shall we play today:

Linn LP12, Rega Planar 8 or Planar 10 or Michell Gyro SE? Mmmnn... a tricky choice, so we'll spin a side or two on each and enjoy them all!

WHICH ONE WOULD YOU CHOOSE…?

You are welcome to come in and reach your own conclusion. Just call or email us to book a listen and bring a couple of your favourite albums.

See you soon,

Alan and Wayne - Audio T Southampton

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening at Audio T Southampton by following us on Facebook and Instagram

Linn can also be found at the following Audio-T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• MANCHESTER

• OXFORD

• SWINDON

• PORTSMOUTH

• CHELTENHAM

• CARDIFF

• SWANSEA

ChordMusic High End cable bargains at Audio T Southampton!

We have been big fans of The Chord Company’s range of speaker cables and interconnects for many years. The high end ChordMusic range are our absolute favourites!

Uniquely, we are in a position to offer you a chance to join the exclusive club of ChordMusic owners at a massive saving. A system upgrade and change of configuration by one of our best customers led to different cable length requirements and we can now offer some little used and mint condition speaker cables and interconnects at much, much lower prices!

We have two pairs of 2m ChordMusic speaker cables for sale. The new price is £4400 or you could have these, as good as new, pairs for £3000 each!

Both pairs are factory terminated with ChordMusic spade connectors at amplifier and speaker ends.

A 1.5m pair of balanced 2 XLR to 2 XLR ChordMusic interconnects retails for £6750 or you could have this immaculate pair for £4500!

All are complete with all original packaging including badges and certificates of authenticity.

Just email or call us in store if you are interested.

Alan and Wayne - Audio T Southampton

Chord Company can be found at the following Audio-T stores

• BRIGHTON

• BRISTOL

• CARDIFF

• CHELTENHAM

• ENFIELD

• MANCHESTER

• OXFORD

• PORTSMOUTH

• READING

• SOUTHAMPTON

• SWANSEA

• SWINDON

• ONLINE STORE