Technics arrived in TWS with a bang, and its direct descendent EAH-AZ60M2 builds on that initial wave of excitement from one of Japan's most cherished Hi-Fi manufactures. AZ60M2 improves on its predecessor with Bluetooth 5.3 granting it Multipoint connection to three devices simultaneously. Together with JustMyVoice™ microphone pick-up technology, Technics set you up with yet another productivity monster. [See Product Desc. For More] EAH-AZ60M2 certainly works hard, but it plays hard, too. Technics respects all the basics that good sound reproduction requires, its 8mm biocellulose dynamic driver working in a specially tuned acoustic chamber and harmoniser for precise, exciting sound. LDAC and an IPX4 rating take you outdoors with confidence. Technics build on that by turning their most affordable TWS option into a work-from-home facilitator, adding eight mics and wind noise reduction managed by JustMyVoice™ DSP that isolates and amplifies words while minimising surrounding disturbances. Enjoy an audible upgrade to your homeworking set-up with EAH-AZ60M2, or browse the other releases from Technics here and our other Bluetooth options here.

The ITG01, specially designed for the outdoor sports crowd, where you may enjoy music while staying safe and being able to hear your surroundings well! Boasting an IPX6 rating, making it sweatproof and waterproof, it allows you accessibility while not having to worry about it malfunctioning while you are exercising. The use of full-frequency bone sound conduction technology changes the way of distributed sound transmission, realizes directional transmission to the human ear, provides full and powerful bass performance, and restores high-quality music in the full frequency range.With an aluminum alloy shell, the ITG01 will remain stable and will not be prone to shifting, which is one of the most important things to consider while using it On-The-Go. Finally, weighing only at 34g, the ITG01 gives you maximum comfort. Coupled with 6.5 hours of battery life, you get to enjoy long uninterrupted playback to your favourite tunes.

Stunning sound meets iconic design. The Aura Studio 4 delivers rich, room-filling audio with a 6-speaker array and powerful down-firing subwoofer for deep bass. The Aura Studio 4 blends premium audio with stunning visuals, featuring: 6-speaker array for wide, room-filling sound 5.2” down-firing subwoofer for deep, rich bass Signature transparent dome with diamond-effect lighting that syncs to your music 5 animated lighting themes to match any mood Seamless Bluetooth streaming with multi-device pairing A showpiece that looks as good as it sounds—perfect for any modern space.

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

Featuring a modular system that separates the wireless module from the acoustic chamber, this groundbreaking product offers a long-lasting and flexible lifecycle that traditional TWS products cannot achieve. ■Modular System for Long-Term Use: The HSX SeriesDespite recent advancements in TWS sound quality, the short lifespan of built-in batteries and rapid wireless technology updates still necessitate frequent product replacements (ranging from six months to a few years). The HSX Series addressesthis issue by introducing a design where the wireless module and acoustic chamber are detachable. This enables users to extend the product's life by replacing parts or even using the acoustic chamber as a wired earphone, offering unparalleledflexibility and longevity compared to standard TWS products.The modular design also allows the use of metallic enclosures for the acoustic components, which was previously challenging for TWS products. This combination ensures stable wireless connectivity while maximizing the driver unit's performance through the superior acoustic properties of metal housings.■First TWS Product to Feature Acoustune’s Enhanced 3rd-Generation Myrinx DriverThe acoustic chamber, C:01, is equipped with Acoustune’s proprietary enhanced 3rd-generation Myrinx driver. Made from Myrinx, a polymer biomaterial renowned for its acoustic performance and commonly used in artificial skin and surgical sutures, the 10mm Myrinx diaphragm delivers high-resolution sound with an extended dynamic range. The driver was re-engineered specifically for TWS, optimizing chamber volume and pairing it with the DSP of the wireless module. This dedicated tuning unlocks new possibilities for the Myrinx driver in TWS applications.■Wireless Module Co-Engineered with ANIMAThe wireless module, M:01 (Module:01), is co-engineered with ANIMA, a brand experienced in TWS product development. It supports high-quality codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive, with plans for future updates to include LE Audio. Integration withthe ANIMA Studio smartphone app allows easy configuration, firmware updates, and access to Advent Voice functionality, enabling voice customisation for operations.■Hybrid Housing: Superior Sound and Reliable ConnectivityThe C:01 (Chamber:01) chamber housing is crafted from aluminum, combining rigidity and lightweight properties. CNC-machined and anodized for durability, the housing provides a sleek aesthetic, smooth fit, and excellent synergy with the Myrinxdriver. The wireless module uses a resin casing for stable connectivity, finished with leather-tone coating for a seamless, premium design. The combination of aluminium and resin ensures lightweight construction, making the HSX1001 both robustand portable.■Future Upgrade OptionsThe HSX Series will offer additional modules, including the M Series (wireless modules) and the C Series (acousticchambers), enabling users to add new functions or explore entirely different sound profiles. Plans also include wiredconnection modules, allowing the acoustic chamber to function as wired earphones for versatile usage.

The ATH-CKS50TW2 builds on the success of the ATH-CKS50TW, the flagship of Audio-Technica's SOLID BASS series, renowned for over a decade of deep bass innovation. This next-gen model combines powerful bass, refined comfort, and cutting-edge convenience with new Magnetic Switch™️ technology—turn off the headphones by attaching them magnetically, no charging case needed. Enjoy up to 25 hours of continuous play on a single charge, with 40 additional hours from the case. Hybrid noise-cancelling technology ensures immersive, personal listening anywhere. Dive into your music like never before.

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.

The new Bose QuietComfort Earbuds deliver exceptional noise cancellation and high-quality sound in a sleek, everyday design. With up to 8.5 hours of battery life, a water-resistant fit (IPX4 rating), and a wireless charging case, they're perfect for any activity. These earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless switching between devices and customizable EQ settings through the Bose QCE app, allowing users to personalize their audio experience. Touch controls make managing music and calls effortless, and voice commands enable hands-free operation. Ideal for travelers, fitness enthusiasts, and multitaskers alike, these earbuds are available in Black and White Smoke.

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is a premium bone-conduction headphone designed for active users, offering exceptional comfort and safety. It features 10th generation bone-conduction technology, delivering enhanced mids and highs for clearer sound. With up to 12 hours of battery life and a quick-charge feature providing 2.5 hours of use from just 5 minutes of charging, it's ideal for long workouts. Its IP55 rating ensures protection against sweat and splashes, and Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connectivity. The lightweight 30.3g build ensures maximum comfort for runners, cyclists, and those needing ambient sound awareness​.

Sound is a personal experience, shaped by your personality and style.  Audio-Technica first introduced its S (Street) Series of headphones in 2008. Since then, headphones have become more than just a means for listening to audio; they have become an element of fashion. In today’s age of truly wireless technology, headphones have become an integral part of how you present yourself.  With that in mind, Audio-Technica developed the ATH-S300BT headphones to give users a sense of both audio freedom and audio fashion. The headphones feature a distinctive terrazzo marbled pattern and ergonomic earpads that fit comfortably over the ears for a sleek, attractive look.  But there’s more to them than just a pretty face. ATH-S300BT headphones represent the culmination of more than 60 years of pursuing high-quality sound, boasting advanced features like the hear-through function, which lets you talk and move around with comfort and ease even while listening to music. Their improved noise-cancelling function also allows users to enjoy a private, high-quality sound space. The headphones provide best-in-class battery life with up to 90 hours of continuous playback. This impressive battery life reduces the number of charges needed, allowing for even greater audio freedom.  Enjoy your audio whenever and wherever you want with the ATH-S300BT headphones, designed to take your personal audio experience to the next level in style. 

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 perfect solution for consumers who wish to stream music via their DAC without streaming support.  Complete with box and in full working condition, the only item missing is the ethernet cable. Warranty Provided: One year from the date of purchase. 

iDAP-8 isn't just a music server, streamer and transport: it's a totally modern computing solution that has the advantage of sounding good to boot from Cayin Audio. This Android 9-based network hub with Google Play Store aboard packs a Snapdragon 660 CPU as a show of maturity. iDAP-8 supports its smart UX with a FPGA that generates pristine I2s that are fed to digital outputs over HDMI and AES/EBU. Built as a matching addition to Cayin's iDAC-8 and iHA-8, all of iDAP-8's 128GB internal music storage, Hi-Res Lossless Apple Music and Tidal native Android streaming apps and network-based NAS audio can be accessed via HiBy Music's HiByCast and HiByLink. [See Product Desc. For More] Cayin leverages the vast leaps in consumer technology to deliver an OS that's super easy to use on iDAP-8. Streaming music has never been such a joy, and rarely has it sounded so good either. That's because, under the hood, iDAP-8 remains a very, very serious audiophile product. An overkill 45 watt toroidal transformer is the centrepiece of another crazy Cayin linear power supply, thoroughly regulated to provide the best platform for network music. Even while Wi-Fi and ethernet inputs, Bluetooth, USB port, SD card plus 2.5" SATA hard drive slot for optional 4TB expandable storage might get noisy, iDAP-8's signal path never does.  Its Snapdragon 660 processor receives your streams, including Apple Music and Tidal feeds that are protected by Direct Transport Audio preventing Android resampling. HiByCast screen mirroring helps you control iDAP-8's incomings and outgoings at a glance via your Android or iOS device from the comfort of your couch. Cayin's FPGA then processes the data and spits out pristine I2S with the help of dual Accusilicon oscillators providing bit, master and word clock references. These then get passed along to a I2S output via HDMI for a matching pin-out standard to iDAC-8, Matrix Audio, Denafrips and Wyred 4 Sound connections. Or, typical S/PDIF reliability can be found in the form of 110ohm AES/EBU to a dCS Lina, or 75ohm BNC plus RCA connectors. Android's flexibility and ease are not lost on Cayin as a modern company. But now, they carry out the due diligence to place proper hardware and audiophile sensibilities at your disposal in iDAP-8, for a complete solution with a vast variety of digital devices. Check out the rest of Cayin's devices here, or view the rest of our desktop gear here.

Hear the power of Bose's next-gen QuietComfort® QC Headphones, now with a best-in-class combination of adjustable noise-cancelling performance and premium comfort, plus proprietary acoustic technology for deep, clear audio. QC Headphones comes with exclusive Bose technologies, like TriPort acoustic architecture and volume-optimised Active EQ, to produce everything in high fidelity. Multipoint Bluetooth 5.1 also gets added. The proprietary TriPort design vents the earcups to add depth and fullness — all without increasing their size. [See Product Desc. For More] So you get better sound from this featherweight QC Headphone that's smaller, lighter, and more comfortable. Plus, volume-optimised Active EQ boosts highs and lows to maintain the same high-fidelity performance no matter how loud or soft you listen. Bass stays consistent when you turn down the volume and the music is still clear when you turn it up. That's all configurable via the Bose Music app, which works alongside six tiny microphones hidden in the earcups to continuously measure, compare, and react to outside noise. That noise is then cancelled with an opposite signal, resulting in fewer distractions – and more of your music. Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge means you'll be tuned into your audio for longer. And a glass-filled nylon plus custom cast metal build means your Bose survives the elements longer. Also check out the rest of Bose's builds that incorporate all that technology here, or our other Bluetooth headphones here.

Bose are back better than ever before, to the genre they defined. Their new QuietComfort Ultra headphones bring the best Bose noise-cancelling experience ever before. It's 5 ⭐ on What Hi-Fi? and praised on CNET and Digital Trends. But what truly sets these headphones apart is their integration of Bluetooth 5.3, Qualcomm's aptX™ Adaptive codec, and Snapdragon Sound™, which enable seamless, low-latency, high-bandwidth audio transmission and support for spatial audio. The QC Ultra takes this opportunity to introduce you to Bose Immersive Audio, a proprietary technology that widens the soundstage, creating a more expansive and layered audio experience, regardless of your audio source. [See Product Desc. For More] This means that spatial audio is now within reach for all users. Replacing the HP700 as Bose's flagship over-ear headphones, the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones offer a powerful blend of Bose Immersive Audio and industry-leading noise-cancellation. The QC Ultra boasts a completely re-engineered system, featuring proprietary DSP, a robust chipset, and advanced microphones. It comes with an onboard IMU and a newly developed, proprietary Bose digital signal processing software that unlocks two distinct Immersive Audio modes: "Still" and "Motion." In "Still" mode, the audio remains stationary, making it ideal for stationary listening, immersing you in a fixed sound position. On the other hand, "Motion" mode lets the audio move with you, ensuring it's always ahead of you, enhancing your on-the-go listening experience. To ensure your audio experience is not disrupted by background noise, Bose has equipped the QC Ultra with advanced microphones that detect and cancel out external disturbances, guaranteeing clear and uninterrupted phone calls. Using a beamform-array to isolate your voice from a 360-degree array of unwanted ambient noise, the QC Ultra delivers crystal-clear call quality for conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. With a battery life of up to 24 hours on a single charge, the QC Ultra headphones are the epitome of Bose's excellence, making them your ideal companion for both work and leisure.  View the rest of Bose's headphones here, or check out our other Bluetooth devices here. 

Audio-Technica's ATH-TWX7 wireless earbuds deliver a superior audio experience, boasting high-fidelity performance and customisable features for personal listening sessions. Utilising advanced 5.8 mm high-resolution drivers inherited from the flagship ATH-TWX9, these earbuds ensure detailed and immersive music playback, supporting 24/96 audio files. [See Product Desc. For More] Despite their compact and portable design, the ATH-TWX7 incorporates cutting-edge technology. Touch-sensitive earbud sensors that enable easy access to audio controls and activation of the digital hybrid noise-canceling feature. Seamlessly apply the noise-cancelling function for enhanced concentration during work, activate the talk-through function to emphasise voices and announcements in your surroundings. You can also engage Audio-Technica's distinctive soundscape function to create a tailored audio ambiance for concentration, relaxation, or meditation. The ATH-TWX7 puts you in control, offering a versatile and customisable sound space to suit your preferences. Check out the rest of Audio-Technica's releases here, or view our other Bluetooth buds here.

Sennheiser rate its entry-level noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphone Accentum Wireless to last up to 50 hours on a single charge. We anticipate a product lifespan that will similarly match that number but measured in years, with what a hit it'll be at the entry-level. While we may be speaking figuratively, it's hard to ignore the appeal of this sleek, more affordable counterpart to Sennheiser's renowned Momentum 4 Wireless headphones, offering numerous comparable features. Headfonia have found their Sennheiser sweet spot. Accentum Wireless is acclaimed in SoundGuys and PCMag. These include noise-cancelling technology, Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, aptX™ HD support, up to 50 hours of battery life, and a lightweight design at just 222 grams. [See Product Desc. For More] Sennheiser's well-established reputation in the world of high-quality audio equipment is further bolstered by their ability to continually meet the evolving needs of consumers, exemplified by the Accentum Wireless. Accentum Wireless is an easy recommendation for individuals who prioritize superior audio performance in their wireless headphones. Sennheiser has meticulously fine-tuned the acoustics to provide outstanding active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities. Accentum Wireless effectively mitigates external noise by combining passive isolation with discreet microphones that target both low and high frequencies. This results in a significantly improved listening experience. These Sennheiser headphones are not just meant for leisure but are also designed for work. With two built-in microphones and a dedicated wind-reduction mode, taking voice calls becomes a hassle-free experience. Moreover, adjustable side-tone and advanced signal processing ensure that conversations feel natural and fatigue-free while minimising background distractions. The multipoint feature enables seamless switching of the active wireless connection between different Bluetooth devices without the need for re-pairing, adding convenience to your daily activities. The Accentum's remarkable 50-hour battery life is complemented by its exceptional wearing comfort. Sennheiser has meticulously designed the earcup and headband padding, ensuring that they adapt effortlessly to the wearer's shape and provide a secure and natural feel. The design of the Accentum echoes the compact fold-flat style of the Momentum 4 Wireless, creating a consistent and appealing aesthetic that emphasises both sound quality and ergonomics throughout the headphone lineup. Sennheiser's Smart Control App enhances the headphone experience, offering a refreshingly simple visual user interface that fits right in your pocket. Accentum Wireless allows you to manage Bluetooth connections, explore features, and experiment with the 5-band EQ, giving you full control over your audio experience. Smart Control can even store user presets and provide updates to keep the Accentum's features operating smoothly as the devices they connect to evolve. Discover the enhanced sound quality you can achieve by upgrading to any of Sennheiser's wired headphones here, or explore our range of other Bluetooth devices here.

Bowers & Wilkins ensure the PX7 S2e continues to remain in style, but not just in the way you think. The famed British Hi-Fi manufacturer ensures PX7 S2e counts on the latest Digital Signal Processing (DSP), to bolster its natural acoustics skill. PX7 S2e's DSP plus Qualcomm’s aptX™ Adaptive and USB-C wired operation means more people than ever can come to love B&W. [See Product Desc. For More] This is the headphone that will take Bowers & Wilkins into the mainstream, combining great Bluetooth sonics with getting the basics right. PX7 S2e's drivers provide an exceptionally rapid response, enabling them to faithfully replicate all the subtleties in your music. Simultaneously, B&W maintain an impressively low level of distortion, which contributes to a highly precise audio experience. Furthermore, the drive units are meticulously positioned within each earcup to ensure a uniform distance from the listener's ear across the entire driver surface, creating a more genuine and enveloping soundstage. All would be of little use without noise-cancelling. PX7 S2e brings an optimised noise cancellation technology to bear, effectively shutting out unwanted noise without harming musicality. Six high-performance microphones work together to deliver the best results: two measure the output of each drive unit, two react to ambient noise from the outside world and two provide outstanding voice clarity with enhanced noise suppression for crystal clear calls. Careful positioning and angling of those microphones enhances performance even in the noisiest environments. Packing battery life of up to 30 hours and available in Anthracite Black, Ocean Blue, Cloud Grey and Forest Green, pick PX7 S2e to possibly go whereever you want. View the PX8 flagship from Bowers & Wilkins here, and our other Bluetooth headphones here.

The newly remastered EAH-AZ40M2 redefine superior audio with next-gen upgrades in a compact design• A 6mm driver delivers great sound quality thanks to Technics’ 55 years of sound experience.• New Active Noise Cancelling Technology and superior sound in a compact and lightweight design.• Bluetooth® Multipoint Connection allows simultaneous connection to three devices.• Beamforming technology delivers clear conversations.Today, Technics announced the launch of its new compact and lightweight earbuds, the EAH-AZ40M2. Joining the recently released EAH-AZ80 and EAH-AZ60M2, the EAH-AZ40M2 complete the brand’s True Wireless portfolio, offering superb sound quality with the addition of Active Noise Cancelling Technology and unparalleledcomfort for home, work and travel.

Listen and be heard. All day, everywhere. Stay in the groove all day long with stylish companions for work and play. JBL Live Pro 2 earbuds deliver up to 40 hours of incredible JBL Signature Sound (with 10 hours in the earbuds + 30 hours in the case), speed charging, and Qi-compatible wireless charging for when your batteries need a boost. True Adaptive Noise Cancelling eliminates distractions to give you totally immersive audio, while Smart Ambient keeps you alert to your surroundings. The stick closed design with Oval TubesTM ensure better noise cancellation and enhanced audio quality for those who prefer a cleaner aesthetic. Got something to say? Make clear, perfect calls with 6 beamforming mics or access your preferred voice assistant for seamless hands-free control and connection wherever life's adventures take you. JBL Signature Sound Nothing beats incredibly clear music and calls from 11mm dynamic drivers powered by JBL Signature Sound. True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient True Adaptive Noise Cancelling automatically adjusts to your surroundings, eliminating distractions for better sound wherever you are. Or use Smart Ambient when you need to focus on your environment, all without removing your earbuds. 40 (10+30) hours of playback with wireless charging Never miss a moment with 40 hours of Qi-compatible battery life (including 10 hours in the earbuds + 30 hours in the case). Need a boost? Just 15 minutes of Speed Charge gives you another four hours of playtime—fast.

Mini in name, but mega in intention. Matrix Audio's Mini-I 4 lands as a streaming DAC built upon the latest ES9039 chip. Yet its true headline act is the addition of a HDMI ARC input. Small in size and price-tag, it's Mini-I 4's home-theatre ambitions that extend massively. Boost the sound from your smart TV and projector affordably with Matrix's dedicated HDMI ARC capability around back. That promise to raise sound quality to match the stunning visuals from today's flagship TVs isn't made lightly. Matrix leverage their close relationship with ESS Technology to build in the exciting ES9039Q2M DAC – a surprise at this price. ES9039Q2M's patented Hyperstream pulse-width modulation technology from ESS is already a one-up on standard chip delta-sigma modulation. "Hitting a lot of key network streaming needs", Headfonics write "it won’t be a chokepoint in setting up a good home audio system offering both a pleasing technical performance and a beautiful design". And for Sennheiser and ZMF Headphones aficionados wanting a powerful balanced 4.4mm headphone output, check out Mini-I Pro 4 here! [See Product Desc. For More] Little wonder, then, that listeners are rushing to get their music decoded by Mini-I 4. Matrix make it easy. In addition to HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) for TVs, the usual streaming suspect of Gigabit Ethernet connectivity comes standard in typical Matrix style. At the source Mini-I 4 accepts audio data from your router, putting its Roon Ready status at your disposal or its growing, diversifying Matrix MA Remote OS – most lately adding the HIGHRESAUDIO streaming service to Tidal and Qobuz. The freeware of your choice may be used too, with first-choices Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect and UPnP/DLNA augmented with Apple AirPlay 2. With a new, modern quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 CPU keeping things ticking over, Mini-I 4 runs smoothly no matter how intensive streaming inputs get. Digital gets turned over to Matrix's FPGA running proprietary code that re-clocks and de-jitters the data stream, before feeding pristine I2S to Mini-I 4's ES9039Q2M. Running on ESS' most advanced Hyperstream IV architecture, the futuristic stereo ES9039Q2M brings five new digital filters – many with low in-band ripple – to the party for new flavours to music reproduction. This DAC chip packs enough computational horsepower to run its 8x oversampling process in just two passes thus minimising rounding errors – an upgrade on other attempts that use a concatenation of three stacked 2x oversampling passes which compound errors. ES9039Q2M is an exercise in sonic purity, and outputs analog in current to a current-to-voltage I/V converter. That ensures small-signal is of highest quality to begin with, as conversion errors manifest as a DC offset that's easy to filter out – not more sinister total harmonic distortion. The voicing of Mini-I 4 is thus under Matrix's full control with their tuning of said I/V stage, and grants up to 127 dB of signal-to-noise ratio. This final DAC analog product can be output via XLR or RCA on the rear to an AV receiver or downstream amplifier. Because while you can choose to run Mini-I 4 beyond arm's length using Roon Remote, the stock MA Remote software, and Tidal Connect, Matrix add a 3.46 inch LCD touch screen for anyone keen to take advantage of this DAC in a desktop setting. Double tap to wake the screen, and swipe left and right to access a myriad of features at the lift of a finger. With HDMI ARC one of so many ways to input music into Mini-I 4, and an assortment of high-quality sonic outputs out, Matrix have a humbly-sized and priced winner on their hands that can accompany you on many a musical journey. Also view Mini-I 4 Pro for Wi-Fi connectivity, an included remote control and a balanced 4.4mm headphone amplifier here, Matrix's other flagships here, and all our other DAC/amps here.

The overachieving ZEN Stream was just the beginning for iFi Audio. Their NEO Stream digital audio streamer does it all – digital and analog outputs, with the one-of-a-kind advantage provided by iFi’s optical LAN input. iFi's new streaming hub counts itself as the only other mainstream digital audio streamer apart from Sonore to feature an optical LAN input. Stereophile writes "NEO Stream punches way above its retail price, bringing complex high-end audio down to earth". Headfonics raved about it. Given light energy is the only way to completely isolate a system galvanically, with no electric potential between points, NEO Stream's optical LAN input is a class above its peers, and indeed punches way above its weight. Indeed, you can confidently insert the NEO Stream into nearly any high-end, top-dollar system, knowing it will perform admirably without hindering flagship DACs from manufacturers like Denafrips, Holo Audio, or Matrix Audio. [See Product Desc. For More] The I2S and AES/EBU outputs around back effortlessly transmit digital signals to your system through iFi's Roon Ready and Signalyst HQPlayer NAA modes. Alternatively, you can bypass a downstream DAC entirely and utilise the NEO Stream's balanced line output. But let's start at the source. NEO Stream includes an OptiBox and the relevant cables to connect to the gigabit ethernet output from your router. Once done, iFi's OptiBox hooks up to NEO Stream and acts as an intermediary to completely block parasitic noise from your home's modem with its galvanic isolation. Files up to DSD512 and PCM 768Khz are transmitted this way without bandwidth limitation. The transfer of digital data between NEO Stream and your DAC is regulated by iFi's GMT femto-precision clock and intelligent memory buffer. GMT ensures your digital transmission between router, NEO Stream and DAC stays jitter-free, with designer Thorsten Loesch describing it to 6Moons as "intelligently and dynamically controlling the clock that drives the DAC chips and streams data from the memory buffer ... not a secondary PLL ... entirely new concept that completely blocks jitter". NEO Stream isn't a run-of-the-mill streamer then, but rather applies iFi's proprietary technology and techniques to stand apart from others. Excellent phase-noise performance and low-jitter are key when transmitting I2S over HDMI, with the bit, master and word clocks derived more accurately than ever. This is particularly important when using one of Signalyst HQPlayer's oversampling reconstruction filters with a Denafrips or Holo Audio NOS DAC, as timing accuracy becomes crucial, and even minor variances can have a significant impact. NEO Stream is reflective of iFi's drive never to settle, coming up with original solutions at the digital input and output that makes these newcomers to streamers appear like veterans, delivering results not yet seen before at this price, availability or common use. Also view iFi's other products here, or our other desktop devices here.