The Moses is a 9-driver Tribrid with one dynamic driver, four electrostatic tweeters and four balanced armatures.  Hailing from Hongkong, the breeding ground of IEMs and flagships, the Moses propelled to fame in Canjam NYC 2025 and continued on receive high praise in Canjam SG 2025. Fun, dynamic, with engaging bass all at once, with great staging and top end airiness, this IEM is a flagship wish-list come true. A sweet sounding IEM that finds easy pairing with most of the DAPs in 2025, a worthy flagship in any collection.

JBL Tour Pro 3 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds Experience superior sound and innovative features with the JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds. These earbuds boast a next-generation Smart Charging Case with a touchscreen for easy control and personalization. Enjoy legendary JBL Pro sound with hybrid dual-drivers, True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, and JBL Spatial 360 sound with head tracking. The Smart Charging Case also functions as an audio transmitter for wireless connectivity to various devices. Features: Smart Charging Case with touchscreen for control and personalization JBL Pro Sound with hybrid dual-drivers for exceptional audio quality True Adaptive Noise Cancelling for immersive listening JBL Spatial 360 sound with head tracking for an immersive audio experience Smart Charging Case functions as an audio transmitter for wireless connectivity

In great working condition, and a 6-months warranty for peace of mind! With the Darwin architecture, the RS6 has more than widthstood the test of time and remains a beloved mainstay amongst Hiby's lineup.

- Featuring a warmer and more relaxed take on its predecessor, with enhanced bass texture and impact - Tribrid setup with 10mm DD, 4x BAs and 1x Bone Conduction drivers in a 4-way crossover design - Newly developed Individual Chamber Resonance System (ICRS) to deliver exceptionally wide soundstage as well as excellent separation between instruments - Cable made in partnership with Vortex Cables for maximum performance out of the box // SPECIFICATIONS - Drivers: 1 DD + 4 BA + 1 BCD - Plug: 4.4mm - Interface: 2-pin (0.78mm) - Sensitivity: 108dB / mW - Impedance: 14Ohms - Cable Material: Silver-plated Copper Alloy - Cable Structure: Independent winding LITZ structure - Sleeving Material: PVC // IN THE BOX - Sapphire earphones - Vocal Eartips (S/M/L) - Balanced Eartips (S/M/L) - 1.2M Cable (2-pin / 4.4mm) - Premium Storage Case - Documentation

Halfway up towards the ATH-ADX3000 – ATH-R70xa distills Audio-Technica's know-how into a complete, mid-range open-back reference headphone.  This enhanced iteration of the wildly-popular ATH-R70x retains the natural and balanced sonic characteristics of its predecessor while incorporating refined accuracy and detail. Mixdown Magazine praised "no matter how hard I pushed them they just kept on giving". All Audio-Technica's innovation, coupled with its friendly asking price for new audiophiles, results in an elevated listening experience with improved imaging and depth perception. [See Product Desc. For More] The fully open-back design of ATH-R70xa counts on an uninhibited path to the listener's ears for its quality. Each diaphragm movement translates directly into audible output, without the use of acoustic cavities or resonance to artificially enhance specific frequencies. In contrast to the preceding ATH-R70x, which employed damping and acoustic design to emphasise low-frequency response, the ATH-R70xa delivers pure, unadulterated sound directly from the transducer, providing a truly authentic open-back experience and minimising distortion. Descended from the flagship ATH-ADX5000 and ATH-ADX3000's Core Mount Technology, Audio-Technica's direct approach ensures accurate and natural sound reproduction, complete with a realistic and spacious soundstage. Designed specifically for critical listening, the ATH-R70xa headphones empower audiophiles to excavate every detail their favourite artists put into the music. The extended frequency range of the headphones ensures transparent reproduction of every nuance within a mix. ATH-R70xa's unrestricted airflow, inherent in the open-back design, coupled with the absence of internal resonance, facilitates an exceptionally fast transient response. This rapid response is crucial for maintaining clarity and separation when working with complex contemporary mixes. Audio-Technica's newcomers are remarkably lightweight, weighing just 199 grams without the detachable cable. The streamlined construction, combined with a newly designed headband, contributes to a comfortable fit that allows the headphones to virtually disappear during use, making them ideal for extended listening. ATH-R70xa is a low-distortion affair always, with its voice coil kept thin and light by its 470ohm impedance. Inertia is low and Audio-Technica's driver reacts instantly to the smallest voltage impulses. Indeed, it's a 470ohm load that's simultaneously easy to drive for any partnering amplifier, such that a tube amplifier mates comfortably with suitable damping factor and impedance matching.  ATH-R70xa's high impedance doesn't place current demands on the many modern bridge-tied load outputs on music players. Those won't grind their gears pushing into inordinately low impedances, small power supplies and output stages producing less in the way of distortion and noise as a result. It will make for a happy result running from iBasso Audio's DC07 Pro and DX180, but high output impedance, imperfect voltage sources from FiiO and Shanling will not be tested untowardly either – music players from the latter both having enough mettle to push ATH-R70xa very satisfactorily. Each ATH-R70xa is meticulously handcrafted in Audio-Technica's Machida Japan facility. The assembly process involves in-house manufactured components ensuring quality and performance standards are met. For a $500 headphone, it's a remarkable labour of love – enough till you step up to ATH-ADX3000 here next, one of Audio-Technica's other releases here, or our other headphones here.

Every five years, PW Audio's anniversary edition embodies Peter's dedication and meticulous research in the flagship line, offering an exquisite product of optimal performance. With the No.15, PW aims to transport you back to an era of lightness; hence, this product incorporates a design featuring two twisted pairs of four conductors, allowing users to immerse themselves in music while enjoying an unparalleled sense of ease. The No.15 leverages PWAudio's "Velocity Difference Technology." Fifteen years ago, Peter discovered while crafting DIY audio cables on a smaller scale that the resistance ratios between the positive and negative poles were unequal. When this ratio deviates from 1:1, the sound takes on entirely different characteristics. This discovery enhances not only sound quality but also deepens one’s exploration of sound artistry. "Velocity Difference Technology" has matured significantly within PWAudio's research, and a golden ratio has been applied to the No.15. Harnessing this principle, the copper wire design used in No.15 focuses not just on mid frequencies but achieves a balanced performance across all three frequency ranges. This design imbues the overall sound with greater smoothness and warmth, richly enveloped in vibrant musicality. The natural fluidity of sound quality sees a remarkable improvement, ensuring that transitions between each note feel perfect, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the musicality. Additionally, the soundstage has noticeably expanded, offering listeners a broader sonic landscape where every detail is crisp and clear. Particularly in the delicate micro-dynamic aspects across frequencies, No.15 showcases unprecedented capabilities for our commemorative series, making the subtleties of lyrics strikingly clear and vivid. This heightened analytical ability allows users to appreciate each note's intricacies while delving deeply into the emotions and narratives conveyed through the music. With a century of experience (albeit still 85 years to go), PWAudio proudly presents the culmination of 15 years of research – the No.15.

Lotoo have yet another chance to showcase their DSP code mastery, bringing AKM's AK4191-AK4499EXEQ DAC ecosystem in the Paw Gold Touch (LPGT) 2 music player to new heights. After taking the original Paw Gold Touch as far as they could with constant Digital Signal Processing evolution, Lotoo acknowledge the strides digital audio has made in the six years since, bringing its flagship up to 2024 standards. Knowing what AKM's own AK4191 delta-sigma modulator is capable of, and Lotoo's own track record of proprietary software upgrades down the years, LPGT2 is good to go for a decade on its own on the digital front. It's backed up by a 4.4mm output capable of producing 1,000mW balanced power per channel. In addition to the Analog Devices Blackfin DSP microprocessor, LPGT2 adds the wireless Lotoo Teleport Protocol (LTTP) that allows your everyday smart device to transmit streaming of up to 24/96Khz high-res lossless audio to your player. Via a USB-C attachment to your phone, LTTP brings the improvements Lotoo's techniques bring to your favourite streaming content from Tidal and Apple Music. [See Product Desc. For More] Lotoo's use of the Analog Devices Blackfin BF706 DSP microprocessor is the stuff of legend by now, with the code written and loaded up over multiple firmware upgrades and several years a technique these Taiwanese coding innovators have made their own – so much of how each of Lotoo's classic DAPs sound is owed to this. The generation of pristine I2S is the ultimate goal for LPGT2's DSP. But even the best digital trickery in the world needs a hardware platform sufficiently capable to execute software. Enter Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM)’s resurgent flagship DACs.  These Japanese giants, back on their feet with a clean slate, started afresh expanding the basic footprint of a single DAC chip IC into three separate parts – to similarly multiply capabilities by a factor of three. AKM’s AK4191EQ is the brains of the operation, receiving pristine I2S clocking and data from LPGT2's Blackfin. Aboard, AK4191EQ’s delta-sigma modulator takes advantage of its expanded, dedicated, silicone footprint to lay claim to the title of the first chip IC working at seven bits. These seven single-bit modulators flow on into LPGT2's dual AK4499EXEQ DACs, one for each channel and built with a single purpose in mind: to turn the interpolated, noise-shaped, digital data it receives into the most precise analog waveform possible afforded by its large footprint. Silicone size matters when it comes to a great DAC IC, and AK4499EXEQ has it. Enabled by much more exact, matched resistors and capacitors aboard for precise DC single-bit decoding, and dynamic element matching that is less burdened by switching errors – granted by parts accuracy from a bigger footprint. Any conversion errors from AK4499EXEQs outputting in current manifests as DC offset, and not total harmonic distortion, that is easily filtered out. That's expected of any source claiming to be high performance. A high-quality current-to-voltage I/V section follows these AK4499EXEQs, befitting of chips that output in current for best distortion performance and indeed flagships like LPGT2. The second Lotoo device after Mjolnir this decade to boast such a circuit, LPGT2 brings those benefits to a portable device 10 years after the first generation LPG in 2014. Once again, LTTP allows you to get high-res lossless from your favourite streaming app on your smartphone to LPGT2, adding to its versatility beyond its 2TB SD card capacity. Running on Lotoo OS 1.6, LPGT2 once again eschews Android operation for the cleanest, lowest interference and CPU noise for a black background. That's only helped by an eight-layer PCB with shielding for the analog circuit, preserving all the analog resolution dual AK4499EXEQs can produce. This high-fidelity is amplified and flows on to powerful op-amp output buffers that supply current and mean Lotoo's flagship promises high damping factor while maintaining its low distortion into low impedances typical of IEMs, Focals, Fostexs and Rosson Audio Designs. Specially selected by Lotoo, LPGT2 boasts Texas Instrument parts that are ideal voltage sources and stable into capacitive loads, with their gain bandwidth product ensuring frequency response extends well beyond the human hearing range for excellent phase response and taut, impactful and life-like dynamics. Still the closed-loop internal gain remaining after the mandatory application of negative feedback around Lotoo's analog circuit remains high, so where she really can shine is in swinging +20.3 dBu of voltage, opening up the sound of any high-impedance Audio-Technica, Sennheiser and ZMF Headphones while barely breaking sweat. Indeed, this latest evolution of Lotoo's beloved Paw Gold concept ensures it's totally future-proof, ready for whatever the bright future of the rapidly-advancing world of Head-Fi throws at it, on the digital and analog fronts. After LPGT2, keep up to date with the fantastic staying power Lotoo releases have here, or view all our other music players here.

HiBy Music's R1 is one's ideal first music player. As affordable as a portable USB DAC dongle, it's R1's standalone features as a DAP that stand out. MOONSTAR Reviews rates it highly as your first dedicated device to play your music on. HiBy packs its own battery meaning you won't need to deplete that of your everyday mobile devices.  HiBy use R1's battery to good effect, building a full audio circuit around it. You'll hear the upgrade proper PCB space and a dedicated power supply yields. From the outset, you'll find out what 'Hi-Fi' sound is about, through its Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC. With specially-developed audiophile digital filters aboard R1's DAC– coded for their audio reproduction fidelity and not cost – you'll hear the difference versus your regular mainstream Bluetooth buds and PC outputs.  R1 also achieves high playback bandwidth, essential if phase response in the human hearing range for taut, snappy dynamics is to be preserved. Instruments and voices will sound lifelike for the first time, with transient reproduction all phase and timing intact. Come and reap the benefits from one of Sennheiser's single dynamic driver IE200 and IE600 earphones. Also check out the rest of HiBy's other releases here, or view our other DAPs here.

The next steps for Audio-Technica’s ATH-ADX5000 didn’t lie in the creation of another flagship, but arguably something more important in ATH-ADX3000. Those TOTL technologies trickled down to birth this mid-tier marvel, placing its affordable exploits into the hands of more. Audio-Technica’s claim of being “the best sound for everyone” really comes to fruition here, with ADX3000 priced and performing at the sweet spot in 2025 between ATH-R70xa and ADX5000. ADX3000 brings forth neutral, Harman-emphasised mids that clearly benefit from Audio-Technica’s Core Mount Technology – state-of-the-art on the ADX5000 in 2017 – being built of the same architecture to enable a truly open, undamped flow of air. Another exploit is it packing a 58mm dynamic driver, the largest this side of SGD$2,000 and joint runner-up for sheer size in all Head-Fi already. Never will one hear as open or effortless a soundstage, cast in front of them with nary an effort. ADX3000’s pristine, immaculate soundscape breathes naturally, materialising before you. But don’t mistake this as a bloodless affair devoid of guts. Paired with anything on up from iBasso Audio’s DC Elite, ADX3000 gains a gravitas and purpose in the low frequencies that make you pay attention, to a headphone that’s meant to do it all, for the long haul. [See Product Desc. For More] It’s no small feat that Audio-Technica were able to reproduce such a large 58mm driver that’s able to climb in high frequencies seemingly devoid of intermodulation and modal break-up. ADX3000 is an audibly low-distortion affair throughout, seemingly able to move pistonically at all frequencies. That achievement is only made more remarkable by the apparent absence of any damping material in ADX3000 apart from its earpads. Its driver starts with a sandwich driver core of softer material for effective damping at higher frequencies. This surface is coated with tungsten for the metal's stiffness, lightness and air acceleration properties moving at low frequencies. This means ADX3000's driver moves as a perfect piston over all frequencies up to and above its working range, keeping distortion down due to cone and modal break-up. Given Audio-Technica’s design goal of providing a clean, totally clear path of air towards the ear via a streamlined, svelte baffle with no acoustic impediments hanging off its inside, it’s remarkable what the company’s engineers did on a relatively small budget. That’s what 60 years of Audio-Technica’s audio know-how, and construction at their Japanese Naruse Machida plant, sounds like. The allowances for such a large driver were not for mere bragging rights.  By being built big, ADX3000’s 58mm driver’s cone can move less – by going large, the radiating driver surface area is increased exponentially on a comparable 40mm driver while reducing the requirement for excursion substantially. That allows it to move the same amount of air and sound with better cone control.  ADX3000’s development period was a lengthy one, if one considers the seven years its ADX5000 sibling was on the market, and how Audio-Technica have churned out hits for six decades.  The former’s metallic material driver performs as effectively in the time domain as the frequency one, ADX3000’s ideal Q-factor not depending on tons of damping material that leads to a deader sound. Rather, transients zip and snap naturally and organically, without acoustic crutches. ADX3000’s purist construction means that this headphone can be nudged out of its comfort zone too, playing beyond the kind its creators directly intended for it. The extra ability to grant it sub and mis-bass response from sources is another feather to Audio-Technica’s versatile bow, responding and adapting to your listening needs, and chain. This is a heavyweight performance, from a 257 gram featherweight. Its 50ohm impedance gives it ability to scale with power, without fear of overdamping, so treat it to your ideal voltage sources such as Questyle Audio’s M15i and CMA18P too. Indeed, here’s a mid-price treat that really behaves like Audio-Technica’s co-flagship. Apt, that a 60-year-old company produces such a potentially timeless, made-in-Japan, heirloom. Check out the higher-specced ADX5000 that will love tube gear on the other hand here, all of Audio-Technica’s other classics here, and our other headphones here.

The headline of BTC-2 might be its Bluetooth 5.1 LDAC, aptX™ HD and aptX™ Low Latency wireless inputs and outputs, but that doesn't quite cover all the functions that Cayin Audio's new desktop hub offers. With its ability to also act as a S/PDIF DAC from your TVs and game consoles, accept phono line inputs from turntables and transmit that signal to your wired earphones, headphones and amplifier, BTC-2 really could be the heart of your digital incomings and outgoings. [See Product Desc. For More] In its most basic function, Cayin's newest Bluetooth gizmo receives your stream in either LDAC or some of Qualcomm's new aptX codecs, before decoding that via a separate ESS Technology DAC and outputting in balanced 4.4mm to your headphones. But, change BTC-2 to accept analog line-inputs from your turntable, or S/PDIF in. Then proceed to switch modes and enjoy as Cayin's DAC within spits out converted analog to your traditional gear! It's a fantastic way to enjoy the sound of vinyl with your personal audio, for example. And while you may not use all the features now, never say never when BTC-2's has got you covered in the future. Check out the rest of Cayin's catalogue here, or view all our other Bluetooth devices here.

Acoustune's HS1900X is named Shinogi, after the raised ridge on a Japanese sword that embodies the historical principles of thinness, lightness, and durability. In fact, HS1900X aims to be everything, packing flagship HS2000MX sound quality into both a more ergonomic shell as well as a more cost-effective one – all the while preserving the Acoustune ethos.  Full of transient attack, HS1900X's W-shaped frequency emphasis likewise is as versatile as its ambitious, all-round comprehensive design. Acoustune's trademark natural detail is presented in an exciting, forward and engaging manner. And its trademark extension at both ends, including a tastefully emphasised sub-bass response here, increases our immersion. [See Product Desc. For More] Acoustune's lightweight titanium chamber, reinforced with a rib structure, and its machined dry carbon laminate body combine these elements effectively. HS1900X's dynamic driver features a composite membrane structure of Myrinx diaphragm and an ultra-thin titanium dome to deliver pure sound by preventing resonance and distortion. This unique modular housing, separating the acoustic chamber and mechanical housing, minimises sound interference. HS1900X excels in sound quality, offering a wide acoustic space, delicate high-frequency extension, and impactful soundstage. Acoustune's ARC93 cable, designed to reduce conductor resistance and prevent audio signal loss, complements these co-flagship's performance with its tin-plated OFC wire and high-quality PVC coating. The HS1900X's ergonomic design, lightweight construction, and exceptional sound quality make it a fitting choice for discerning audiophiles, and worthy of its Shinogi namesake.

Reference closed monitor headphones for creators, with ultra-wideband playback. Experience precision audio with the MDR-M1 Monitor Headphones. Featuring ultra-wideband playback from 5 Hz to 80 kHz, these headphones deliver low-distortion, high-fidelity sound with exceptional detail. The closed acoustic design ensures superior sound isolation for accurate monitoring in any environment. Built for comfort and durability, the MDR-M1 includes soft, thick earpads, detachable cables, and a versatile screw-in plug adapter for seamless connectivity, making it the perfect choice for professional audio production.

The Durandal features an innovative triple-driver configuration, combining Sonion's dual-membrane bone conduction drivers, a custom dynamic driver, and four balanced armature drivers. These are finely tuned through a meticulously crafted 4-way crossover, allowing each driver to perform at its best. This advanced configuration enhances Durandal's ability to deliver powerful, deep bass alongside exceptional mid-to-high frequency resolution and detail. The mid-range, especially vocals, is presented with a natural richness and full-bodied warmth, making it ideal for those seeking lifelike vocal reproduction. Additionally, the bass is robust and impactful, while the high frequencies remain crisp and clear. Durandal’s cutting-edge driver arrangement and crossover design result in a well-rounded, coherent sonic signature that offers an immersive listening experience across the entire frequency spectrum.

Duality introduces a new caliber in dynamic driver performance with its custom-developed dual dynamic driver setup, precisely tuned with a true two-way crossover. With two unique tunings selectable via a switch, Duality offers a unique blend of indulgent fun and refined precision. Whether you've been looking for a monstrous bass experience unlike anything else, or for natural dynamic driver timbre with next level technical performance, Duality takes both specialties of dynamic driver performance to their logical conclusions. Impedance adapters are an optional add-on for Duality which increases sub-bass further at the cost of some sensitivity. These impedance adapters are designed specifically for Duality and interact with the Duality's intentionally shaped impedance curve in a way that only adds sub-bass, while keeping the rest of the frequency response unchanged. The adapters also change the character of the bass from a slightly more rounded, suited for general listening, to more intense and focused, which gives you full bass intensity but might be a bit overwhelming for some. This change is facilitated by the shifting of the peak of the bass shelf further into the sub 20Hz territory, increasing perceived bass impact and texture.  Do note that with the adapter attached, the driving requirements increase by a considerable amount. Please reach out to us if you are unsure if your set-up has sufficient power.

Cayin Audio bring the KT170 – the golden boy of vacuum tubes – to Head-Fi for the first time in Soul 170HA. This Class A flagship specimen of a tube amplifier is capable of outputting up to 18 watts per channel into HIFIMAN's Susvara Unveiled. Beating every other household tube amp builder to debut the KT170 in a commercial amplifier, all of Cayin's tube expertise has been distilled into building a flagship product around this exciting new valve model. To The Ear, "the fact is the Cayin Soul-170HA is a seriously well-engineered and well-endowed headphone amplifier able to go toe-to-toe with alternatives at its price point and some way above". Eddie's Hifi Audio World's full teardown highlights the extreme attention to detail paid to its development. [See Product Desc. For More] Massive EI core output transformers plus dual power transformers for the high and low voltage sections are designed and wound in-house, to Cayin's exact spec. These allow Soul 170HA to take total advantage of its choke-input power supply, transferring pure potency to your giant flagship headphones. But don't let such raw power scare you, your sensitive Focals, ZMF Headphones ... or even your IEMs. Soul 170HA retains the sensuality that has defined Cayin alongside brute strength. This behemoth on its XLR outputs turns delicately tactile on its alternative 4.4mm output – 18 would-be watts usefully reduced, to a maximum of just 4 watts. It is this Jekyll-and-Hyde nature of Soul 170HA – enabled by the different taps on its output transformers – that means Head-Fi should take this flagship very seriously. A JRC MUSES72320 volume control shows up, proving how Cayin meant for more than just Susvara, Abyss Headphones and Dan Clark Audio owners to enjoy this do-it-all amp. These resistor ladder electronic volume parts preserve signal-to-noise ratio and channel balance down to the ALPS-controlled encoder's lowest level – perfect for however much, or little, travel you need.  Not a one-dimensional bull in a china shop, Soul 170HA still adds all the fidelity and finesse you can reap from the whole world of flagship equipment that can be enjoyed today – gear that's easy to drive, including IEMs, is certainly not exempted. Cayin naturally provides all the fidelity, and power, the Susvara Unveiled needs. But when that speaker-amplifier level of power's not needed, Soul 170HA has more than enough fidelity to stand upon that alone and make its case. Built to work in single-ended Class A, Soul 170HA preserves the all-important even harmonics that tube enthusiasts crave. Certainly none of those push-pull, odd harmonic nasties that's a painful shortcut to easy output power yet a route to non-linearities in the process. With Soul 170HA's huge, regulated power supplies, Cayin have ensured its single-ended KT170 pair sit in their sweet spot of bias and operating voltage, while outputting their huge power. Said power supply is perfectly designed to lavish New Sensor Corp's 2021 wonder tube's great plate dissipation and robust cathode. Housed in a separate chassis, comprised of dual toroidal transformers – one for the massive voltages of tubes, and a different one for the low voltage sections to avoid contamination – Cayin tagged these to a huge choke input.  This choke operates in tandem with a capacitor bank and regulation to ensure Soul 170HA enjoys vast power reserves. Soul 170HA's reservoir is unleashed into impossible loads during big transients via dual umbilical cords connecting the two chassis, so that neither feed contaminates the other. Cayin's protection from interference is yet another factor that adds up to Soul 170HA's fidelity – and the resulting point of owning one. Soul 170HA will undisputedly improve any transducer you use, whether or not you require all 18 watts off its 4-pin XLR, or barely approach the limit of its ubiquitous 4.4mm's max 4 watts. Soul 170HA can attribute that claim to its excellent linearity in the open loop. What enters comes out the same, not relying on the excessive use of negative feedback. Without counting on common-mode rejection, its achievement of 110dB signal-to-noise ratio is a great feat and testament to thorough, good old-school engineering. A point-wired, simple tube circuit guarantees purity. Custom-built AudioCapX MultiCap coupling capacitors in Soul 170HA's signal path are ideal for passing low frequencies and extending bass flat (-1dB) down to 10Hz! Phase reproduction in the audible human hearing range remains stellar as a result, with taut dynamics and impactful bass slam – not the wooly affairs of yesteryear's transformer amps. Helped by huge output transformers, with enough inductance to reproduce sub-notes low, plus Cayin's hand-wound EI shape to allow high frequencies through, Soul 170HA performs very satisfactorily in moving drivers full-range ... and is even capable of transferring its full 18 watts of ultra-linear power out into high-impedance, high-sensitivity speakers through taps on the rear. Again the reasons for Soul 170HA's range of highest possible output power, to delicate and soft playback, surface clearly: to reproduce its magnificent KT170 tube fidelity into any kind of load possible. Buy Cayin's champion now, and rest forever assured you have the best foundation for flagship tranducers – present and future – to perform. But if space and weight are a constraint, however, look towards Cayin's own HA-300B and HA-6A in more compact form factor for Susvara-driving power still. And, when on the go, bring out one of Cayin's DAPs here, as you browse the rest of our desktop equipment here too.

Feel the power of Timsok's TS316. The same minds behind Melodic Artifaction harness the sheer pistonic power of a 10mm dynamic driver to deliver a one-two punch in the lowest bass-registers, this side of $1,000. Competition might be fierce, but the ease in enjoying this bass response off laptop, mobile or DAC dongle flea power ultimately gives Timsok the crown.  You never have to try too hard to coax sheer dynamic power down low from TS316. Its 10mm driver is capable of moving plenty of air, undoubtedly helped by a large air vent on Timsok's shell. It's a V-shaped frequency response that also grants terrific sparkle in the highest registers, and listeners who appreciate anything from Advanced AcousticWerks' old AXH up to Elysian Acoustic Labs' Annihilator will find plenty to like in TS316. Pairing it with the Divinus wide bore tips could help it achieve ever slightly more refinement in the low-frequencies, while Final Audio's E-Type eartips grant much more mid-range presence. Meanwhile, check out the Alter Ego that Melodic Artification announced themselves on the high-end IEM market with here, or check out our other IEMs here.

The headline of ZEN Blue 3 might be its Bluetooth 5.4 aptX Lossless, but that doesn't quite cover all the functions iFi Audio's new desktop hub offers. It's easy to recommend for Audiophile-Heaven. With the ability to also act as a wired DAC, accept RCA line inputs and transmit that to your Bluetooth earphones and headphones, ZEN Blue 3 really could be called the beating heart of your digital incomings and outgoings. [See Product Desc. For More] In its most basic function, iFi Audio's newest Bluetooth gizmo receives your stream in either LDAC or Qualcomm's newest codec aptX Lossless, before decoding that via a separate ESS Technology DAC and outputting via 4.4mm line-output that can feed an amplifier with balanced inputs. But, change ZEN Blue 3 to accept analog line-inputs from your turntable, or USB or S/PDIF in. Then proceed to switch modes to 'Transmitter', and enjoy as the ADC within spits out data to your nearest Bluetooth devices! It's a fantastic way to enjoy the sound of vinyl on your wireless devices, for example. And while you may not use all the features now, never say never when ZEN Blue 3's has got you covered in the future. Indeed, if iFi's giving, we're accepting! Check out the rest of their catalogue here, or view all our matching Bluetooth devices that could connect to ZEN Blue 3 here.

A Letshuoer double-kill sounds like S08 – releasing new entry-level planar-magnetic excellence and using the chance to debut new technologies. The combination of a new dual voice coil diaphragm, a new coil etching method plus a driver surround combine to create a complete IEM bound to keep newcomers happy for a long time. With its driver surround, S08's driver is capable of making pistonic action more akin to a dynamic driver. When you consider Letshuoer's large 13mm diaphragm and the copious amounts of air it can move, the recipe for deep, plentiful, bass is guaranteed. A 13mm dynamic driver would risk modal break-up at higher frequencies, though. Not Letshuoer's planer driver, kept under the control of S08's magnetic array at all times. [See Product Desc. For More] Being etched across its entire surface with a voice coil means that movements across S08's driver surface are perfectly controlled. Letshuoer introduced a new nanoscopic magnetron sputtering process with S08, etching the planar driver of their S08 earphones yields high stability and long lifespan. Far from modally breaking up at high frequencies, this coil-etching enhances treble resolution and yields high stability and long lifespan. Furthermore, S08's diaphragm is covered with these high-tech voice coils on both sides, improving vibration control, reducing resonance and enhancing transient response. All these aspects translate to Letshuoer's legacy of listenability continue with S08, balancing addictive bass with just a right level of transparency that's not overbearing. Discover S08 and be amazed, or check out Letshuoer's other gear here as well as our other IEMs here.

The Caldera Closed is a planar-magnetic revelation not just for ZMF Headphones, but for Head-Fi. Here's a closed-back sister to Caldera Open that packs heaps of reference-level resolution, soundstage and tonal accuracy. Most importantly, its raw detail and way of extracting musical information does not come at the expense of proper musical immersion, or pure, simple fun. Headfonics write this flagship "is a very easy recommendation". It's a TechPowerUp award-winner. Caldera Closed doesn't suck the life out of music as some other closed-back planar-magnetic flagships gone by in recent history have.  Far from being a dead scientific instrument, this ZMF adds on to the fun factor, mirroring its open counterpart's engagement factor behind the privacy of closed cups. Zach Mehrbach's latest Caldera Asymmetrical Magnet Structure (CAMS) and Atrium Damping System (ADS) realisations prove closed-back headphones are no longer inferior to open-backs – they're just differently flavoured, and equally capable. [See Product Desc. For More] Caldera Closed's biggest strength at the drawing board was that it was designed from scratch. While it walked the same path as Caldera Open, Caldera Closed breaks the mould with a cup shape inspired by the rugged, geometric form of a volcanic caldera. Its unique, asymmetrical curves not only look striking, but also allow the exceptional sound of our drivers to truly come alive. With a new asymmetrical magnet array working for – not against or apart from – earcup acoustics, ZMF's original work merged their two biggest technical accomplishments into one headphone. Certainly, CADS birthed Caldera Closed together with the Atrium Damping System (ADS). CADS starts with trapezoidal N52 magnets that shape and optimise airflow either side of Caldera's 80mm planar driver minimising turbulence and phase issues.  It's a volcano-like magnet structure that allows air to naturally spread out, and maintains a slightly asymmetric force making the membrane more nodal, pushing a massive amount of air towards the ear while diffusing it at the same time. Macro dynamics are a given but it's micro-dynamic reproduction that distinguishes Caldera Closed. The traces in proprietary ZMF planar driver film are gold-plated copper, and the diaphragm is coated with silver to maximise excursion along the traces. It's not just sheer driver size producing authority and slam – actual pistonic excursion akin to dynamic drivers reproduces tiny gradations in SPL. This sees Caldera Closed's timbral resolution on par with the likes of its Open, Atrium and Vérité counterparts.  Atrium Damping minimised back-wave cancellation from the rear of the driver, for more pressure to be exerted in a controlled manner towards the ear, carefully away from the back volume at determined frequencies. The smallest details made all the difference to a driver with as much resolution as Caldera Closed produced, and ZMF extended their research to earpads with three depth variances released for a complete ecosystem of accessories. All Caldera pads bear fluting – the tapering of rim thickness and circumference back to front – officially sealing the integral role oft underestimated items play on the ZMF tuning process. Already, Caldera Closed's combination of Atrium Damping plus the horn-like acoustic amplifier its sculpted earpads take the form of ensure substantially better SPL loading of the driver ear-side. With sensitivity at a high 95dB ensured by these added implements, the driver and motor are then freed to focus on mustering as much deep bass extension as possible from the air volume within limited cup enclosures. This is a closed headphone, so naturally it works as meant to from portable sources. Caldera is a call to experiment with amplifiers, so big-small devices such as Cayin Audio's C9ii, HiBy Music's FD5, R8II and RS8 and Enleum's HPA-23RM throw their hat into the ring to work very satisfactorily. At the desk and in a public office, compact voltage sources like that fit the desk only enhance the performance. The solid-state route is straightforward with Questyle Audio's current-mode desktop flagship CMA18. The Cayin iHA-8 and HIFIMAN EF500 are absolutely capable. That's exactly the kind of attention Caldera Closed deserves, the planar-magnetic cherry on the ZMF cake that completes the circle from the very first days Zach Mehrbach spent modding venerable Fostex T50RPs. Caldera is a headphone unlike any other, entering a world of planar magnetics yet not being entirely of it. Switch to Caldera Open here when you step back into the home environment, check out ZMF's dynamic driver headphones when looking for the perfect OTL tube amplifier match here, or view all our other headphones here.

This is what everyone's first audiophile open-back headphone can be. That's the message Focal have sent with Hadenys, an entry-level wired headphone for the masses. What Hi-Fi? are already impressed. Built on the familiar, chic, compact chassis of the Bathys, Hadenys sounds great. Trademark 40mm M-shaped aluminum-magnesium dynamic drivers work with its open grilles to supply a healthy dose of space which Trusted Reviews noted. As possibly one's first experience with open-back headphones, Hadenys however never once pushes listeners out of their comfort zone. Reference soundstage, dynamics and detail are delivered politely and palatably, never once beating the uninitiated over the head with excessive high-frequencies. Also requiring zero amping, but improving with some, Hadenys gives you headroom to explore. Enquire in-shop about swapping Focal's stock mic cable with an aftermarket version, increasing this groundbreaking release – or its closed Azurys sibling's – audiophile credentials yet. [See Product Desc. For More] Like every Focal, Hadenys combines stunning design for immersive listening experience, with unmatched portability and comfort. These wired closed-back headphones boast a high-end design with Focal's signature style elements, featuring luxurious materials like leather, magnesium and aluminum.  It's this winning combination that ensures both durability and comfortable wear for any head shape. Inspired by the Hadean era, when the Earth completed its formation, Focal's rich brown colour gives it a distinctive touch, evoking earthly depth and organic warmth. Its beauty is matched only by the serious technology it hides underneath. Like every Focal, 40mm M-shaped dynamic drivers that have been made in French facilities reside below its cups. Built to be extremely pistonic in motion, the maximum potential travel of the Hadenys drivers give its bass proper low-frequency presence, speed and dynamics – useful on a noisy commute. These are traits that remain as frequencies rise. Focal's humble 40mm driver dimensions and the superb damping qualities of magnesium mean movement stays pistonic and doesn't deteriorate into harsh modal break-up up top. Treble detail stays inherently warm and natural. Focal engineered Hadenys seriously so you could have fun. Worth every penny as it gives you a taste of French finery, few entrances into the audiophile hobby are as credible as this new closed-back headphone. Enquire with us about the aftermarket cable that will yield improvements with any one of our portable DAC/amps or desktop sources. Otherwise, see how you can step up via the rest of Focal's range here, or check out our other headphones here.

CMA18 is another milestone for Questyle Audio with the use of ESS Technology's flagship ES9039Pro DAC. CMA18 packs one of the most sophisticated pure Class A analog stages in a DAC available to market now, the strengths of the Hyperstream IV ES9039Pro and CMA18's current-mode amplification working hand in hand. CMA18 is alive with tone colour and saturation, notes propelled forth with a real zeal and macro-dynamic force about them. Questyle's current-mode amplifier is mounted on a high-performance dielectric Rogers board to achieve a 30 per cent reduction in distortion compared to previous flagships, gaining improved dynamics and reduced background noise for a more immersive listening experience. There is a tangible physicality about this Questyle flagship – listeners enjoy a palpable connection hearing familiar music again, as CMA18 heaves and breathes like it were a real, living, being. And still, in a reference DAC where neutrality is so prized, it presents tonal balance accurately. [See Product Desc. For More] In a throwback to Hi-Fi luminary Dan D'Agostino's work [using Texas Instruments] for Krell Industries at the beginning of the 21st century, Questyle designed CMA18's analog circuit path to operate transmitting signal solely in current instead of the standard voltage, starting from its ES9039Pro's analog current output. Manufacturers have long taken advantage of the ESS flagship's claim to be the most sophisticated DAC chip available, outputting in current for best distortion figures before traditionally voicing the circuit through the crucial I/V current-to-voltage converter stage. But D'Agostino understood then that no I/V stage could completely disappear sonically, colouring the sound artificially in ways unacceptable – he therefore removed the stage entirely, by employing Krell's own current-mode analog circuit. Transmission of signal, entirely in current, without prior conversion to voltage, has been revived by Questyle to the same effect here. Removal of the I/V aspect of CMA18's circuit therefore sees the purest expression ever of Questyle's current-mode philosophy, keeping affairs post-digital conversion magnificently and elegantly simple with fewer parts necessary.  Questyle's choice of current-mode signal is the stuff of legend by now. It eliminates the lag time that might otherwise occur when signal is transmitted in voltage, as it builds up at the capacitances in the circuit – current signal passes through unhindered by comparison, with speed and ease.  By doing away with the issue of transmission delay in CMA18, Questyle virtually eliminates any of the harshness caused by the intermodulation distortion associated with high capacitance, solid-state circuits.  Coloured yet correct, CMA18 presents detail smoothly and organically with a sense of vibrancy that's accurate and still entertaining. Another effect of being unhindered by capacitance in the signal path means that huge signal bandwidth is possible, leading to phase response being accurately preserved in the human hearing range. Indeed, to hear current-mode is to hear a naturalness to music not encountered before in a conventional circuit, and Questyle build CMA18 as the ultimate expression to such a topology. It's an implementation that certainly flatters the ES9039Pro – a chip that packs enough computational horsepower to run its 8x oversampling process in just two passes thus minimising rounding errors – an upgrade on its predecessor that used a concatenation of three stacked 2x oversampling passes which compound errors. Not merely an advertisement for Questyle, but for ESS, the ES9039Pro's patented Hyperstream pulse-width modulation technology is a one-up on standard delta-sigma modulation. It now enters its fourth iteration pushing nigh inaudible high-order distortion levels post-conversion further down. This futuristic quad-mono ES9039Pro imparts a digital filter with extremely low in-band ripple and top noise and distortion rejection to allow CMA18 impart a new realism to your music. A 4.4mm headphone output, a pure Class A small signal and power stage, and LDAC Bluetooth input, then allows users to enjoy Questyle's flagship in ever more scenarios. Current-mode will prove even more effective the closer a load is to ground. The results translate to an ultra-low distortion, linear, analog system in tandem with Class A, without resorting to the excessive use of negative feedback. CMA18 works as a perfect DAC for your Hi-Fi system into component input impedances that have been dropping ever more readily since the turn of this decade. Flip CMA18 to variable volume mode, and its analog potentiometer turns it into an excellent pre-amp. Everything above discusses the less-obvious about a true Questyle flagship, because the plain truth is that CMA18 functions as the perfect headphone amplifier first and Hi-Fi hub second. Check out Questyle's other headphone specialties here, or view our other DACs here.

HiBy Music have nothing more to prove in the hand, so they've turned their attention to the desk. The Class A FD5 is the answer to the question Head-Fi had – can HiBy build a USB and Bluetooth desktop DAC/amp leashed to a wall power supply that could match, or even exceed, their portable music players? FD5 says they can, and so does Headfonics as well as Headfonia, who praised its "impressive ... execution here shows great promise". Built with a quad of AKM's AK4493SEQs supported by a FPGA, the discrete Class A FD5 is everyone's affordable compact gateway into an over-performing one-box desktop solution. Complete with a power supply given enough space to spread its wings in a separate chassis and finished with voltage regulation throughout, FD5 packs 32 discrete output transistors that achieve output power of over 1.5 watts. [See Product Desc. For More] This is a desktop-calibre HiBy that will drive your Empire Ears Raven, Subtonic Audio Storm or Symphonium Audio Crimson with total confidence from your mobile and computing devices. More importantly, its warm, rich tuning will offer lovely synergy and timeless value with revealing transducers such as Final Audio's D7000, Fostex's TH900 MKII, Canpur's CP74E, Craft Ears Aurum, Elysian Acoustic Labs' Annihilator, PlusSound's Allegro and the Vision Ears Elysium EXT. HiBy's first DAC/amp is not without flagship genes despite being on a budget. It not only borrows its analog stage from the R8II statement DAP. It also goes one better, doubling the output transistor count on FD5 to 32 to handle the abundant current its separate power supply can produce.  With such a discrete output stage HiBy immediately takes a big step ahead of the chasing pack of pedestrian op-amp competitors. Its individual transistors provide the power necessary to push big HIFIMANs and Rosson Audio Designs – not to mention Subtonic's Storm and Symphonium's Crimson – on a budget. Its ability to reel in highly-detailed, exacting and even punishingly revealing gear will, in fact, see it increasingly appreciated down the road. The ability of discrete output devices to handle current and push power is a given, and a necessary HiBy trademark given FD5's power supply sporting several thousand microfarads of filtering capacitors. It's a powerhouse that's escaped the pocket and now has the stage, and the limelight.  At the tip of HiBy's spear, an abundance of 32 output transistors ensure excellent current-handling for good reason, to reap the full benefit of FD5's separate power supply that can draw power from the wall on demand. They can be biased into Class A, if you so choose. Differentiating itself from even other flagships that cling to op-amp layouts seeking THX-certification but with inordinate amounts of gain and feedforward/feedback, HiBy's linearity remains excellent already in the open-loop, owing to its high Class A bias. FD5's quiescent current ensures individual transistors are working in optimum condition. Distortion and noise are kept low, without resorting to the excessive use of negative feedback. The fidelity of four Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) DACs, being fed pristine I2S by HiBy's FPGA and dual clock oscillators, are totally preserved. To build on its impressive, regulated, miniature power supply, HiBy designed a true-balanced differential amplifier to further improve FD5's linearity, and you can count on common-mode rejection at its best whenever you plug in via 4.4mm preserving its resolution. Send this brute power into your transducers directly, or set up FD5 as a hub to also decode digital for a downstream amplifier via separate line outputs around back. It brings convenience too – on top of its USB input, it accepts Bluetooth LDAC feeds too. When you're done with FD5 at the desk move onto HiBy's portable DAPs here, or explore other desktop DAC/amp upgrades here.

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled sonic precision of the Cadenza 4. Letshuoer's proprietary 10mm dual-chambered beryllium coated dynamic driver is the heart of the experience. This innovative driver is both incredibly light and extremely rigid, creating a foundation for unmatched sound reproduction. "It’s a very mature, forgiving, yet engaging product" says Ear Fidelity. Cadenza 4 elevate this performance with a combination of Knowles and Sonion balanced armature drivers. This powerhouse combination delivers rich mid-frequency details, ample treble extension, and resolution that reminds of Cadenza 12. [See Product Desc. For More] But the magic doesn't stop at the drivers. The Cadenza 4 features a three-tube acoustic design with a meticulously engineered, four-way electronic crossover. Letshuoer haven't forgotten about comfort either. Through collaboration with Heygear Technology, they've refined Cadenza 4's chassis for a secure, comfortable fit that allows you to lose yourself in the music for hours on end. The matte-finished CNC aluminum alloy housing not only looks stunning but is also incredibly durable, ensuring your Cadenza4 will be your trusted companion for years to come. The final touch? A luxuriously crafted cable featuring 392 strands of high-purity silver-plated monocrystalline copper. This premium cable not only enhances the fidelity of your audio but also boasts three types of interchangeable 3.5mm, balanced 2.5mm and 4.4mm plugs for seamless compatibility with all your devices. Explore how Letshuoer are redefining the budget category with their other IEMs here, or view our entire catalogue here.

Cayin Audio are back with their tiny but mighty, discrete Class A solid-state amplifier that could. iHA-8 returns these tube whizzes to the transistor fold, providing almost 20 watts of Class A power in a compact desktop form factor perfect for any Focal up to HIFIMAN. Don't judge Cayin's solid-state marvel by its size. iHA-8 plays with the same microdynamic, vibrant zeal that charges up notes and brings your music to life, typical of this company's best Class A solid-state work. A 75 watt power supply, discrete FET construction biased into Class A plus optional Hyper Mode's huge operating voltage allows you to throw any low-impedance headphone at it in total confidence. [See Product Desc. For More] iHA-8's newly-added 4.4mm headphone output adds to the convenience of a member of Cayin's new desktop family together with iDAC-8 and iDAP-8. If you're tempted to plug IEMs in, its resistor ladder electronic volume control control keeps noise low. Indeed, these precise controls preserve signal-to-noise ratio and channel balance down to iHA-8's ALPS-controlled encoder's lowest level – perfect for however much, or little, travel you need. Because, it's easy to play it loud, but everyone knows it's in playing back tiny sounds that is the litmus test of a powerhouse capable of outputting as much power as iHA-8. Transparent at any volume setting down low as much as up high, with virtually perfect channel-matching, this Cayin behemoth exposes detail buried deep around the noise floor of your music. You'll want to hear it all given iHA-8's linearity – what goes in at the input, comes out amplified the same. To support the signal-to-noise excellence of dual NJR MUSES72320 high-tech volume controls, Cayin resort to the old school of Class A bias, and high operating voltages. The latter can be further boosted to over 30 volts at the push of iHA-8's Hyper Mode button. Already, iHA-8's FET voltage and power amplification brings a tube-like square law function to reduce distortion at the drawing board. Throughout it all, Cayin's individual transistors are kept in their sweet spot and ideal range of operation for best open-loop linearity. They don't rely excessively on the band-aid of negative feedback to correct errors, because there are so few.  In fact, iHA-8 relies on a novel mode of gain control, only adding it as part of the feedback loops sitting around this amplifier's output stage. Excessive open-loop gain is something Cayin absolutely can't be accused off here, allowing you to climb up your volume knob for the best dynamic range performance.  Again, this benefits iHA-8's quiet performance. Cayin's input stage – where the majority of any amp's sonic signature is defined – is built on Toshiba's ubiquitous 2SK209 JFET. Famed for its low noise as a driver, these JFET's serve another purpose: allowing Cayin to direct-couple iHA-8's power stage.  Frequency performance is therefore virtually flat, running 10Hz up to 80Khz and plumbing bass depths so that phase response in the human hearing range is preserved, for fast bass, outstanding dynamics and impactful precision. Meanwhile, high frequencies climb as expected from anything claiming to be high-fidelity. iHA-8's input JFETs run in parallel to output the current needed to drive the large capacitances of Cayin's 24 beastly Vishay MOSFET amplifier devices adequately. The wide bandwidth yielded preserves phase, and adds spatial cues, imaging and treble ambience. iHA-8's abundance of power transistors are mounted on copper bus bars while the chassis gains heat-sinking compared to its predecessor. This heavy hardware allows these MOSFET buffers to keep cool and operate at temperature equilibrium. That way they are able to handle the most current on top of withstanding abundant voltage – useful as Cayin's Hyper Mode comes to mind. The high count of output transistors ensures immense current-handling for good reason, to reap the benefits of a typically-overbuilt Cayin power supply with a 75 watt toroidal transformer at its heart, 50,000 uF of filtering capacitors, ultra-fast recovery rectification and voltage supply regulation throughout – even to iHA-8's power stage. All this leads to Cayin's ultimate voltage source to date – once more capable of the feats of powering ABYSS Headphones' AB1266 Phi TC, Audeze Headphones' LCD-5, Dan Clark Audio plus HIFIMAN's HE-6 and Susvara on a budget. But crucial signal path optimisations mean this brute also wears ballet shoes to elevate any other real-world load. Be it a Fostex, Focal, Final Audio, HEDD Audio or ZMF Headphones, there's nothing iHA-8 cannot tackle ... even IEMs like Subtonic Audio's Storm. Make Cayin the centrepiece of a do-it-all desktop headphone rig feeding it via their own iDAC-8, HIFIMAN's EF500 or Matrix Audio's Mini-I Pro 4. It's that good. If you'd like to explore the tube route, HA-2A awaits you here, as do the rest of Cayin's valve amplifiers here. Otherwise, browse the rest of our desktop amplifiers here.

Unleash the full potential of Acoustune's top-notch IEMs with AS2002, their new UAC2.0 compliant portable 4.4mm DAC/amp. Experience ultra-fast USB High Speed transmission paired with a high-bandwidth, low-latency design, perfect for pristine audio reproduction. Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM)'s AK4493S decoder chip – a rare legacy heirloom in the market – elevates your music with unmatched detail. [See Product Desc. For More] Designed for Acoustune's own IEMs but also capable of powering headphones via its 4.4mm output, AS2002's innovative circuit design still reduces power consumption while supporting a vast array of audio formats. A mesmerising gradient light keeps you informed of signal and mode status. Acoustune's customary aluminum shell safeguards the interior from interference, while the included MagSafe accessories ensure a secure fit and minimal cable shake. AS2002's sleek yet durable wire body, high-quality wiring, and dual USB-C and Lightning cables provide seamless connectivity with your mobile phones, tablets, and computers. Take your audio experience to new heights with this revolutionary portable DAC amp and view Acoustune's other IEMs here, or our other DAC/amps here.

Bose promise a revolutionary audio experience with their Ultra Open Earbuds. These innovative earbuds break the mould by letting you stay connected to your surroundings while still enjoying immersive music. Ultra Open Earbuds' unique cuff-shaped design is both stylish and comfortable, allowing for all-day wear without sacrificing awareness. CNET send their approval.Want to open your world and horizons while still listening to awesome tunes? Ultra Open Earbuds make it possible. Gone are the days of bulky headphones or uncomfortable in-ear buds. [See Product Desc. For More] Bose's latest innovation features a sleek design with soft edges and a metallic finish, blending seamlessly into your personal style. They're also designed to work with glasses, hats, and jewelry without interfering. But style isn't everything. Bose has engineered the Ultra Open Earbuds for superior comfort and stability. A special flex arm, coated in soft silicone, connects the speaker to the battery barrel, resting gently against your skin. Bose's light-as-air grip ensures the earbuds stay secure on almost any ear shape. The magic behind the Ultra Open Earbuds lies in Bose's proprietary OpenAudio technology. Their innovative system combines a powerful transducer with a precisely controlled acoustic structure to deliver clear, high-quality audio directly to your ears. Remarkably, there's minimal sound leakage, ensuring only you enjoy the full richness of your music. For an even deeper listening experience, the Ultra Open Earbuds feature Bose Immersive Audio. This technology uses digital signal processing and an onboard motion sensor to create a wider, more spacious soundstage. It's like having your own private concert, with instruments positioned realistically around you. Whether you're relaxing at home or on the go, Bose Immersive Audio brings your music to life. Indeed, Ultra Open Earbuds offer two listening modes for Bose Immersive Audio: 'Still' and 'Motion'. 'Still' mode is ideal for stationary listening, keeping the audio fixed in a specific position. 'Motion' adjusts the audio as you move, ensuring you stay immersed in your music even while walking or running. But if noise-cancelling and isolation are called for, check out Bose's Ultra Earbuds QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds here, view the rest of their selection here, or our other Bluetooth devices here.

A showcase of the value and performance of HIFIMAN's Himalaya LE DAC technology, the network-enabled R2R EF500 is another Everest of achievement. This streaming DAC/amp is exactly the kind of statement HIFIMAN chase – these planar-magnetic headphone extraordinaire's spirit for innovation is what spurred them to develop EF500. Audiophile-Heaven says it delivers on the R2R promise. Taking the company's discrete new R2R Himalaya LE DAC and slapping on a 4.4 watt per channel amplifier, EF500 is HIFIMAN's claim that they are all you'll need to run a complete personal audio chain on your desktop. With an added ethernet input, you gain the ability to leash EF500 straight to your network router and enjoy music off your NAS, or favourite Android or iOS streaming app. A fully-balanced, differential DAC/amp through the signal path from decoding to amplification and output, EF500 counts on common-mode rejection to achieve excellent noise performance and combine resolution with R2R's lauded musicality. [See Product Desc. For More] HIFIMAN's diminutive powerhouse is a statement of technological ambition from China's leading headphone manufacturers, changing the game by equipping all levels of Head-Fi with an extremely capable source. That's double the feat because the precision demanded in exact resistor values – for the buttery, natural and resolving ability that R2R DAC topology is known for – goes up. For an entirely different sound otherwise, EF500's grants users the ability to switch from NOS to oversampling mode, for the cleanest possible result. That scrubs any last distortion and artifacts beyond the audible human hearing range, claiming over 115dB of signal-to-noise ratio. That's signal that sees EF500 output in fixed voltage via line XLRs and RCAs, in the sense of a conventional DAC. But HIFIMAN – famous for its immensely challenging Susvara and HE6 – challenge you to bring its balanced headphone outputs to bear. A balanced, differential Class A/B amplifier swings plenty of signal voltage and backs that signal up with a power stage bristling with current, to claim a mighty 4.5 watts of power. All so you can enjoy the benefits of EF500's network capability with nigh any flagship transducer. That's power beyond measure but HIFIMAN says it's always better to have more than you need. So EF500 can go about driving the likes of their headphones, plus any HEDDphone 2, Sennheiser or ZMF Headphones, with tons of headroom, and no worry at all. Throw any headphone at EF500: you won't regret it. Also, view our other offerings from HIFIMAN here, or our other amplifiers here.