From a company revered for their digital audio technology, Benchmark Media launched an all-out assault on stereo speaker amplification with their AHB2 power amplifier. Taking Stereophile's Product of the Year 2018 gong, this up-to-480-watt per channel Class AB amplifier depends on THX feed-forward AAA technology to deliver the widest dynamic range plus lowest signal-noise ratio of power amplifiers on the market, measuring perfectly on AudioScienceReview. [See Product Desc. For More] StereoNET rightfully called AHB2 a "class act that delivers an awful lot at its price" before it went on to take the publication's coveted Applause Award. Whether run as a stereo or monoblock amp, it's guaranteed to get the job done in any rig you place it in. Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity used an entire system together with the DAC3 and HPA4 THX-888 pre-amp to declare "Benchmark provides a textbook case of how good (read: superb) things can come in small packages". It got the Gold Award on Soundnews. The hallmarks of building a great power amplifier are all present here, with the ultra-efficient switching power supply of AHB2 stably and quietly juicing the amplifier regardless of load, before outputting into a power stage with peerless damping factor. You'll also be able to see everything from Benchmark here, our other digital and Roon Ready streaming sources from Matrix Audio here, and all our other DAC & amp options here.

If you're going to add a tube to a circuit then put it on the input, and that's exactly what Audio-Technica have done with their hybrid AT-BHA100 headphone amplifier. Four ECC83S tubes take care of voltage gain, leaving the heavy lifting to a solid-state power stage built from discrete components. [See Product Desc. For More] With balanced connections back and front, AT-BHA100 promises source and especially headphone versatility from the Audio-Technica stable and beyond, those from Focal, Rosson Audio Design, Sennheiser and ZMF Headphones also being present. Alternatively, share the fun and listen with a partner through the use of two single-ended outputs each with their own volume knob! Tuned with a reference sound flat from bottom to top with beautiful sparkle in the highs, this is one infinitely pleasing listen your headphones will never tire of. We've been impressed by Benchmark Media's DAC3 supplying AT-BHA-100's signal. Also check out the rest of Audio-Technica's catalogue here, or view our other amplifiers here. 

A 256-step relay volume control brings one of the market's most sophisticated line stages from Benchmark Media to Hi-Fi and full-size system enthusiasts. Stereophile gave this compact full-size Hi-Fi component a glowing review, appreciating its technology. The Absolute Sound praise it in full-system context alongside Benchmark's own DAC3. This supremely transparent and precise line-level control helped Positive Feedback hear "every change I made to my system". [See Product Desc. For More] Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity used an entire system with the AHB2 power amp to declare "Benchmark provides a textbook case of how good (read: superb) things can come in small packages".  Write to us about a demo in your own stereo set-up at home. Or view the THX-888 headphone amplifier version of the LA4, the HPA4, here. You'll also be able to see everything from Benchmark here and all our other DAC & amp options here.

Adding scale and stage to Feliks Audio's impressive Echo II is Elise. Tube character abounds but never enough to take away the life-like realism of actual music in this OTL amplifier in single-ended triode format, based on the 6SN7 driver stalwart. You'll struggle to dispute Elise's quality at portraying an orchestral piece of work, or its magic synergy with Audio-Technica, Sennheiser or ZMF Headphones. Give it one listen, or many. Rarely will a single piece of gear fit as many sources, genres or set-ups. [See Product Desc. For More] Its mids are liquid and forward, great to address any flaws still present in your flagship cans. Warm, natural and wholesome even harmonic sound dominates – a direct result of Elise's single-ended Class A topology. The holy grail of all bias schemes isn't undertaken lightly, and new current sources ensure Feliks Audio's classic single-ended triode amplifier runs stably fully biased at all output levels. This is a decidedly low-distortion affair in an inherently linear amplifier given high tube operating voltages and current. Transconductance increasing with bias current is optimal. And while tube imaging, emotiveness and liquidity is de facto, Elise always sounds natural and fully transparent. Indeed, despite its mid-range vivacity, a massive audio bandwidth is guaranteed given its output transformer-less OTL construction. Literally nothing separates you from your music. Pairs of 6SN7 and NOS 6N13S tubes power your headphones directly, without any chunk of iron in the signal path.  Elise champions frequency extension – the fast, deep bass and airy, open highs from the best OTL associations to perfect phase reproduction and respectable damping factor – therefore. Long tube operating lifespans come courtesy of improved thermal management and more efficient passive cooling driving up to 60 per cent lower operating temperatures in the incumbant, versus its predecessor. Really, it's never only about the parts, and Elise is further proof boasting a new tube cathode heater and power supply design derived from the flagship Euforia. Great design nous gives a premium, Polish-built amplifier the platform to perform quietly and transparently.  Whether you go up or down, you'll be served browsing the rest of Feliks Audio's offerings here, or all our other DAC & amp options here.

Benchmark have furthered their long line of Digital-to-Analog Converters with the DAC3. Stereophile commented that DAC3 was evidence that "science works". Enough, clearly, for this bargain in high-end audio to take the magazine's Product of the Year 2018. That elevates this pro audio powerhouse further in the minds of home Hi-Fi enthusiasts, and it's no surprise that Benchmark's sonic transparency and muscular, dynamic plus honest delivery fit any genre of music thrown at it. Five ⭐ came easily from What Hi-Fi?. [See Product Desc. For More] The Absolute Sound praise DAC3 in full-system context alongside the HPA4 and LA4 line controls. Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity used an entire system alongside the AHB2 power amp to declare "Benchmark provides a textbook case of how good (read: superb) things can come in small packages".  You'll also be able to see everything from Benchmark here and all our other DAC & amp options here.

Bringing THX-patented AAA technology to headphone amplification, Benchmark released their HPA4 as a statement product to take the personal audio world by storm. Personal audio enthusiasts have been able to count upon household name Benchmark's engineering prowess, says AudioScienceReview. It's an approach to engineering The Ear note can be heard in their listening. [See Product Desc. For More] A 256-step relay volume control additionally brings one of the market's most sophisticated line stages to headphone enthusiasts. Stereophile's Herb Reichert thanks this statement piece for helping "this old triode-tube lover to first acknowledge, then accept, and finally enjoy a new type of engagement, one that satisfied my engineering mind and my audiophile lust to look and listen into the hidden nooks and distant corners of every recording". The Absolute Sound praise HPA4 in full-system context alongside Benchmark's DAC3. Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity used an entire system with the AHB2 power amp to declare "Benchmark provides a textbook case of how good (read: superb) things can come in small packages".  Write to us about a demo in your own stereo set-up at home, or view the pre-amp-only version of HPA4, the LA4, here. You'll also be able to see everything from Benchmark here and all our other DAC & amp options here.

Matrix Audio's newest Digital Audio Transport came with the intention to awe, and it certainly did more than that. The NT-1 is built first and foremost as a streamer, but packs with it so much more, and delivers far and beyond. A more in-depth look into the NT-1 will reveal that Matrix Audio is serious on its intent of building high-quality products while maintaining absolute price competitiveness with the rest of the market. We will look at its unique features, namely: power supply, circuitry design, clocking design, and longevity of its Linux-based system.  Priced at $5,799, the NT-1 ranks as the only streamer that promises a far longer product life cycle with a Linux OS, with the intuitively designed Matrix App, coupled with a seriously well-designed electrical isolation circuitry, and the ability to further stack with an external clock, all rolled up in one. You only need to hear it to believe it. Don’t take our word for it. [See Product Desc. For More] NT-1 features not just a linear power supply, but adds a unique feature – an automatic voltage detection function. In other words, no matter where you are – whether it is 110V or 220V, there is no danger of fusage burn as the NT-1 will automatically detect its input voltage with the transformer doing the necessary work. As we peer within the NT-1, its brilliant circuitry design unfolds. First, the IIS and USB digital outputs of NT-1 are fully isolated designs. The ground wire of the USB and IIS digital outputs/interface are isolated from the NT-1 chassis ground. Such a design ensures the cleanest of signal transmission, eliminating much of the possibilities of further interference of signals sent to the DAC.  There is a row of small ICs behind the IIS interface and the USB interface, a total of eight. Strictly speaking, among the 8 ICs, 6 are optoelectrical isolated, and the two large ones are also isolation chips, but they are not photocoupled. The audio signal output by NT-1 must first be converted into an optical signal, then converted from the optical signal into an electrical signal, and then output from the IIS and USB interfaces. This conversion process is completed inside these ICs. Therefore, there is no direct electrical connection between NT-1 and the DAC behind it on the signal line. In addition, the ground wires of these interfaces are also isolated from the ground wire of NT-1. Therefore, there is no electrical connection between NT-1 and DAC at all. Such circuitry allows for much cleaner transmission of digital signals to the DAC. Finally, we get down to the clock design. The NT-1 has the ability to support an external clock. While it may sound simple, having the ability to do so, and do it well, where the model has a circuit which cooperates with the external clock input to work seamlessly is easier said than done. The internal circuitry has to convert the input 10MHz external clock signal into the signal that is required by the audio. This means both the input 10 Mhz and the RF synthesizer must be accurate and in step with each other. Taking what they have done with the MS-1, Matrix Audio is able to use the same technology within the NT-1 to achieve this.While the NT-1 is agnostic to any setup, it forms an excellent pairing with the X2 Pure DAC, as well as the X-Sabre 3. Also view everything from Matrix Audio here, or browse our other DAC/Amps here.

The best step up in iFi Audio's ladder exists as Zen DAC V3. Now sporting a USB-C data and power input that sees Head-Fi's favourite desktop entry-level 4.4mm DAC/amp compatible with every modern source, Zen DAC V3 can be used virtually everywhere.  Headfonia pays Zen DAC V3 a compliment by saying it stands out in 2025, while Headfonics echoes praise about its all-in-one capabilities. Audiophile-Heaven rate it too. Audio Taking power off a laptop was easy for iFi in the past, but it now works even more flexibly being powered by your portables in smartphones and tablets. [See Product Desc. For More] Take the featherweight Zen DAC V3 off its optional 5V external DC power supply in the morning and stuff it into your pouch to bring along with you ... for whenever you might need iFi's great, balanced 4.4mm sound in a rush.  You'll be set up in no time on whatever surface you choose to – or need to – listen on with Zen DAC V3. Convenience and fidelity from an actual analog potentiometer volume control means more power ... more power to you, the listener. Driving classics from Audio-Technica, Sony and Sennheiser right up to boutique ZMF Headphones whenever, whereever, is exactly what iFi had in mind. If you'd like an even smaller footprint and earphones are your daily drivers, then hip-dac 3 could also be the way to go here. Also check out iFi's other hits here, and all our other desktop DAC/amps 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.

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.

When Zähl Elektronik-Tontechnik released HM1, few would have imagined it would go on to become the best solid-state reference headphone amplifier on the high-end market. Pre-orders now open for 2025's units – secure now to avoid disappointment! Inventor and founder Michael Zähl's professional sound engineer roots eventually led him to dream up a circuit that could drive whatever Head-Fi's most demanding flagships needed, with total transparency. Coloured yet correct, HM1 produces all the microdynamic zeal, transient zip and texture associated with the finest Class A designs. Yet it never borders on sterility, presenting music with as much entertainment as had been recorded onto the track. Hailing from the 1970s school of analog design, Michael Zähl's HM1 relies on cherished, historic linear technologies taken to today's max: Class A bias, no negative feedback and a huge linear power supply. It's difficult to imagine that HM1 was first conceived as a monitoring product for studio professional use, such is the success it's been received in high-end audio with. Production limited to 50 units a year – get in touch below to pre-order yours now and avoid disappointment. [See Product Desc. For More] Certainly, one could not have anticipated the impact HM1 has made on the high-end headphone amplifier market. Originally designed as a precision tool equipped with a range of front-panel controls, Zähl was initially conceptualised as an essential instrument for professionals whose livelihoods relied on precise auditory perception. Featuring controls like A/B input source comparison, crossfeed, mixing sources, EQ, and the option to incorporate optional negative feedback, HM1 adapts to diverse preferences and transducers. All adjustments are executed in the analog domain, utilising premium components that seamlessly integrate into the signal path. However, a toggle is provided to bypass these components, allowing your music to flow directly to your headphones as a veritable straight-wire-with-gain. Even when toggled, negative loop feedback enhances measured performance without detrimentally impacting audio quality. At HM1's simplest, most basic circuit level, Zähl takes a unique approach by not attempting to "fix" your headphones but rather syerngise seamlessly with them, flattering their best traits. Operating in Class A with high operating voltage and bias, the entire circuit of HM1 functions stably, free from feedback. HM1 relies on a full Class A bias and elevated operating voltages to ensure its transistors operate in the most linear regions. This fundamental characteristic starts with HM1 drawing power from its lifeblood – a linear power supply connected to the main enclosure through an umbilical cord. With the toroidal transformer already dissipating 40 watts of power even without signal playback, Zähl's oversized power supply is capable of meeting HM1's demands at a moment's notice during transient peaks or intense musical passages to fulfil its role as the lifeblood of the system. It's quite the feat running in the open loop doesn't stop HM1 from producing enormous frequency extension. Touching 500Khz at -3dB is certainly no mean feat without the aid of negative feedback. Its DC-coupled signal path without coupling capacitors reaches 1Hz – truly subterranean levels, for an amplifier of any sort. Indeed, this champion of frequency response achieves a flat 10Hz to 30Khz, paying off in perfect phase reproduction in the human hearing range for life-like dynamics, fast impactful bass, realistic portrayal of musical images and tremendous air. HM1 excels in stereo separation, leveraging a fully dual-mono configuration with distinct power supply transformer windings, rectification, and regulation for each channel. This meticulous design extends to HM1's signal path, ensuring no interaction between channels and delivering exceptional crosstalk performance. Driving the audio microscopes that are today's flagship headphones, Zähl's audio reproduction stands out for its remarkable transparency and naturalness. The signal's transparency, preserved by HM1, is fed to the finest Head-Fi equipment through large output devices with exemplary current-handling, taking advantage of its robust power supply. Zähl built a brute that functions as a near-perfect voltage source, given the way it almost doubles power output into halving impedances of 30ohms to 15ohm. Dan Clark Audio, HIFIMAN's Susvara and Abyss Headphones all bow before HM1. This isn't a question of using inordinate closed-loop gain to inflate specs, but rather, genuine, raw driving power. The realism of Zähl's performance through Rosson Audio Designs, Final Audio's D8000 Pro, HEDD Audio's HEDDPhone 2 and the ZMF Headphones Caldera is also haunting – especially when played back with Matrix Audio's Element X2 Pure as a source. Because HM1 isn't merely a product, but a moment in time – the cumulation of analog technology's feats, brought perfectly into a timeless package that will be the final solid-state headphone amplifier you will ever need. Get in touch to own a piece of audio heritage designed by Michael Zähl now.

A modern Mass-Kobo built for every budding audiophile coming of age. Model 433 is the Goldilocks of Masuda-san's range, able to offer something to everyone.  Model 433 is built personally by Masuda-san in Shizuoka, Japan. There, his hand-selection of the top one per cent of matched discrete parts for incredible open-loop gain tolerances yield incredible sound quality. Inspired by the Model 394 II, Model 433 offers as little as possible in the way of compromises for those seeking the full Mass-Kobo experience. [See Product Desc. For More] Mass-Kobo's choice of current-mode signal has been around as long as Head-Fi has, and Model 433 calls upon such heritage. Current-mode amplification 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 Model 433, Mass-Kobo virtually eliminates any of the harshness caused by the intermodulation distortion associated with high capacitance, solid-state circuits. Model 433 presents music with an iron grip on your transducers, never allowing the slightest note out of control. Any trace of transient smear or note bleed vanishes, from the lowest bass to the highest highs, given the extraordinary damping factor as a perfect voltage source current-mode delivers. Mass-Kobo presents your favourite music with a zeal and 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. Model 433 runs flat from 10hz to 100Khz, with phase response excellently preserved in the human hearing range for startlingly life-like dynamics, impactful bass and realistic portrayal of musical images.  Indeed, to hear current-mode is to hear a precision to music not encountered before in a conventional circuit, and Mass-Kobo build Model 433 as testament to such a topology. Current-mode technology excels the more it detects a dead short, so Model 433 only works more happily when presented with sub-30ohm loads from Audeze's LCD-5, Dan Clark Audio's Stealth, Expanse and E3, plus HIFIMAN's latest flagship generation – particularly considering that's backed up by nearly 20 volts of swing for sudden massed orchestral bursts. Feed Mass-Kobo only the finest signal. Keep your whole chain working in current-mode with Questyle Audio's CMA18. Meanwhile, browse the rest of Mass-Kobo's range to see what you get higher or on the go here – or view the rest of our amplifiers here.

Purity of sound is everything that Feliks Audio is about, and Euforia EVO is the full realisation of that legacy. This uber-revealing output transformer-less OTL tube amplifier built on the CV-181 (6SN7 derivative) unearths every detail in your music. Now with a 4-pin XLR output for balanced connections, EVO bears similar upgraded parts broadly carried over from the Feliks Euforia Anniversary Edition. EVO is a Headfonics pick for hours of fatigue-free listening, a Headfonia Recommended Buy, an Audiophile-Heaven Hall of Fame-r, and "wildly recommended" by Ear Fidelity. Headphonesty say Euforia EVO is "absolutely sublime". UPOCC copper wiring in the signal path, enhanced coupling capacitors and a power transformer with great AC line performance come as standard. EVO sets a new benchmark of stock transparency that will serve you well with many an Audio-Technica, Sennheiser or ZMF Headphones. Feliks present the Euforia line its latest, timeless, new member ... in a beautiful satin gloss black finish packing sound quality that will remain unrivalled for years. [See Product Desc. For More] As another single-ended triode amplifying in Class A, EVO remains fully transparent and yet never overbearing in its presentation of detail. Natural and wholesome even harmonic sound dominates – a direct result of EVO's single-ended Class A topology. The holy grail of all bias schemes isn't undertaken lightly, and rock-solid current sources ensure Feliks Audio's flagship OTL runs stably fully biased at all output levels. This is a decidedly low-distortion affair in an inherently linear amplifier given high tube operating voltages and current. Transconductance increasing with bias current is optimal. And while tube imaging, emotiveness and liquidity is de facto, EVO always sounds natural and fully transparent. Certainly, a massive audio bandwidth is guaranteed given its output transformer-less OTL construction. Literally nothing separates you from your music. Pairs of transparent CV-181 drivers and NOS 6N13S tubes power your headphones directly, without any chunk of transformer iron in the signal path.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Headphonesty (@headphonesty) This Feliks champions frequency extension – the fast, deep bass and airy, open highs from the best OTL associations. Phase reproduction in the audible human hearing range is stellar, and dynamics crash especially potently bottom to top, rivalling even the best solid-state competition. Boasting a new 4-pin XLR connection, EVO eschews the headphone cable adapter you might have used with its predecessors, powering your flagship cans even more directly in the spirit of maintaining total purity. This makes the case of EVO being the only amplifier you need – at least, till you aim for the extreme Envy... Whether you go up or down, you'll be served browsing the rest of Feliks Audio's offerings here, or all our other DAC & amp options here.

No one knew exactly what to expect from dCS Data Conversion Systems' first separate analog power amplifier, but neither is anyone surprised by the excellence of Lina headphone amplifier anyway.  Stereophile's extensive review saw Lina pitted against flagship competition and emerge with distinction ... "watch out for goosebumps, tears and laughter, because that's how you'll know if they can please for the long haul". Exhibiting remarkable specs on paper, it's immediately apparent how Lina's discrete transistor solid-state reference amplifier product translates those into spectacular audible results – an analog product that proves worthy of bearing the dCS name. [See Product Desc. For More] A pinnacle of frequency extension and transparency, Lina headphone amplifier makes its case to be the ultimate, final headphone source you'll ever need – conjuring macro and micro dynamics before your ears while always sounding relaxed and completely natural in its tonality. READ ALSO How Lina is the perfect amp for Susvara When fed by dCS' accompanying Lina network DAC, Lina amp's fully-balanced, differential design encased in solid aluminium brings out even more than you thought your flagship headphones could produce. Headfonia didn't do a very good job, trying to prevent their jaw from dropping at Lina's performance. From "planar headphone fan" Headfonics, "this is a tremendously satisfying and engrossing world-class solid-state amplifier". Lina saw Headphone Guru's headphones replace his speakers over a month of testing.  READ ALSO Lina – designing the perfect voltage source She was a Hi-Fi News Outstanding Product. Lina amp outputs in excess of 4 watts with enough current-handling ability for loads like the Abyss AB1266 Phi TC, Hedd Audio HEDDphone and HIFIMAN's Susvara. At the drawing board, dCS invest every effort in building Lina amp as a linear open-loop design.  READ ALSO Building a dCS statement in analog design Rather than achieving current-handling capability via the usual technique of building with more output transistors in parallel, Lina amp opts for quality over quantity and a lower parts count. Less is more, and dCS elegantly selects fewer but more unconventionally capable devices with 8 ampere current capability exceeding the normal needs of headphone amplifiers. Feeding this potent array of beastly power transistors is a proprietary driver stage that dCS designed to operate linearly with low open-loop distortion, unfazed by pushing the large output devices. This secret voltage gain circuit is more than up to the task of passing along and upsizing the signal of Lina DAC transparently without adding noise and distortion, thanks in part to cascodes operating supplementary and reducing voltage-induced non-linearities. READ ALSO Lina power quality matters – not just quantity Said cascodes also play a part reducing capacitance at the bases of transistors where they operate, which provides tremendous high-frequency performance with Lina amplifier extending out to 100Khz at -3dB. Meanwhile, Lina amp's DC-coupled nature also means bass extends down to subterranean levels – this kind of frequency performance down low and up top guarantees superbly flat phase reproduction in the audible human hearing range for potent and realistic musical dynamics. Through the audio microscopes that are flagship headphones, Lina's perfect phase response is undisputedly audible. The above – low output impedance, excellent current-handling, low distortion and frequency extension – all remarkably achieved in the open-loop. After getting these basics of an excellent analog circuit right, dCS then apply the cherry on the cake – closing the loop with negative feedback to make an already good design great. dCS thus achieves the amplifier ideal of a straight wire with gain, adding as little colouration as possible to let your transducers speak freely, to the fullest of their potential. It's been thoroughly thought out. When used with Lina DAC, Lina amp takes advantage of the former's high-current line-stage. The latter boasts an unbuffered balanced input, bypassing unnecessary active input stage devices and simplifying the circuit further for less chance of error.  Now we see – with the gargantuan task of creating a standalone amplifying product that lived up to the dCS name, these digital specialists pulled off a masterclass in analog design. A true testament to the skill of the designers, for the benefit of the most dedicated headphone listeners. Elsewhere, explore the digital chops from the rest of Lina here, or browse our other desktop products here.

The Lina network streaming DAC boasting Ring DAC technology is both a continuation and a new beginning for dCS Data Conversion Systems. Lina DAC's design combines renowned dCS technologies with new innovations developed for headphone listeners – resulting in a bold new interpretation of the dCS experience, and a complete re-imaging of form and function alongside Lina headphone amp and Lina master clock. READ ALSO The inside story behind Lina DAC's creation What doesn't change, however, is a level of new immersion, resolution and realism that accompanies any dCS; even at Lina's new entry-level point. There are multiple ways to get your music aboard Lina DAC, with Spotify and Tidal Connect, plus Roon Ready status, standing by for easy connectivity right from set-up. With Lina DAC, dCS took core playback technologies, including the dCS Ring DAC and Digital Processing Platform, and added new innovations developed for headphone listeners. [See Product Desc. For More] 5 ⭐ came from What Hi-Fi?. Headfonia didn't do a very good job, trying to prevent their jaw from dropping at Lina's performance. Lina's "energy, dynamics, and a very strong level of detail retrieval" floored Headfonics. It saw Headphone Guru's headphones replace his speakers over a month of testing. She was a Hi-Fi News Outstanding Product. These impressive results translated to speakers too, for Steve Huff. A sensible flex-ridged circuit board allows dCS to deliver all of the features you’d expect from a dCS DAC in a much smaller chassis that would sit handsomely on a desktop or coffee table. READ ALSO The exhaustive breakdown of dCS Ring DAC technology At the heart of all dCS DACs is the Ring DAC, and Lina is no different. Ring DAC denotes a proprietary digital-to-analog conversion system. Ring DAC is renowned for its ultra-wide bandwidth, technical accuracy, and ability to reveal astonishing levels of detail in digital recordings – from the subtlest of sounds, to the sense of time and harmonic movement, and the atmosphere that surrounds a musical performance. A Xilinx Artix-7 FPGA comes loaded with the dCS Ring DAC mapping algorithm, and custom dCS oversampling linear-phase filters. FPGA technology allows dCS to supply constant firmware updates with time, by way of network updates. This showcases Lina's status as a true software product with each firmware upgrade yielding audible and functional improvements that sees dCS DACs always stay relevant. READ ALSO Software-driven hardware design at dCS After digital signal processing at Lina DAC's FPGA, the oversampled signal is then processed by a high-performance array of resistors and current latches controlled by the Ring DAC mapping algorithm, to form the basis of Lina's supreme performance discrete delta-sigma DAC. Designed from the ground up by dCS, not relying on performance-limiting off-the-shelf DAC chips, there is literally nothing out there like Lina DAC.  Lina gives all listeners the capability to expand its potential beyond a single box – its high-current discrete analog line output stage, fully balanced and differential – is designed to preserve the transparency of the Ring DAC. It can feed directly the unbuffered input section of Lina headphone amp, for full resolution and best signal-to-noise ratio.  Lina master clock meanwhile sits alongside ready to supply a reference clock source via dual BNCs for Lina DAC. Pushing phase noise and jitter far below audibility, the difference Lina master clock makes is profound, even on a decoder already as supreme as Lina DAC – and must be heard to be believed. The result is a powerful, supremely capable product designed for use in a wide range of environments, from living rooms to studios and workspaces.  With its wide dynamic range, crisp, clear playback, expansive soundstage, and tonal neutrality, Lina DAC provides a deeply natural, highly detailed, and profoundly musical sound that encapsulates our singular approach to audio. Add unique headphone optimisation technology like digital crossfeed, an elegant and tactile design, and a high-performance streaming platform, and you have a hugely versatile source that delivers spectacular sound, however you choose to listen.  READ ALSO Expanse – digital crossfeed done right View the rest of the Lina family here so that you may build on the magnificent performance of this network DAC, or view our other desktop products here.

The Lina master clock is a product inspired by dCS Data Conversion Systems' absolute dedication to achieving the highest possible standards of sound reproduction.  Headfonia didn't do a very good job, trying to prevent their jaw from dropping at Lina's performance. Lina saw Headphone Guru's headphones replace his speakers over a month of testing. She was a Hi-Fi News Outstanding Product. Design of Lina clock, to operate in tandem with Lina network DAC connected by dual BNCs, is informed by dCS experience developing master clocks for professional and home use. Headfonics clearly heard an improvement, certainly in a way he didn't miss Rossini clock. READ ALSO Lina a timely addition to dCS heritage Designed to further suppress jitter and phase noise in Lina DAC, it uses two oven-controlled crystal oscillators to deliver a precise and stable clocking reference for all audio formats and frequencies. [See Product Desc. For More] When paired with Lina DAC, Lina clock allows its sibling's internal clock system to be locked to a master signal, for even greater precision and enhanced audio performance. READ ALSO The scientific basis of dCS master clocks Its standalone design ensures sensitive clocking components are protected from factors that can cause interference. Each crystal oscillator is oven-controlled to ensure its performance remains consistent, even under changing conditions and temperatures. With its own dedicated chassis and power supplies, clock signals are thus protected from power interference, crosstalk and other factors that can affect integrity and in turn, audio quality. The feedback dCS received from listeners and audio experts who’ve experienced significant sonic benefits after adding such a master of time to their system clearly advised their design for the most thorough headphone reference rig available to market. Designed for maximum reliability and longevity, Lina clock is a silent but powerful component engineered to operate with absolute precision and consistency, so you can experience the best possible performance from your system. Combined with the rest of the Lina system that you can view here, Lina clock delivers an even more profound and immersive dCS listening experience, and helps ensure the audio you hear sounds exactly as it should.

--- SOLD! --- Power hasn't come in a more potent package than Cayin Audio's little desktop iHA-6. Up to seven watts per channel promises to drive every headphone with aplomb, including HiFiMAN's notorious HE-6, Arya and Susvara, plus all Dan Clark Audio FKA MrSpeakers. [See Product Desc. For More] With the ability to improve based on the quality of sources, building blocks for a fantastic desktop rig begins from the iHA-6, said John Grandberg for Innerfidelity. Its 95 per cent discrete design counts on modern power FETs to push some serious power into any pair of cans – this is not an overstatement. Power is not to be confused for loudness here. You'll be able to benefit from the inherent low internal gain typical of any Cayin discrete circuit to drive both the Focal Stellia and HE-6, plus everything in between, in the optimal range of iHA-6's volume control. For anyone familiar with what that means, it's a big deal. You'll also be able to see everything from Cayin here and all our other DAC & amp options here.

A spiritual successor to the Element S, Matrix Audio's newest line up of streamers features the TT-1. With the TT-1, Matrix serves to provide an excellent digital audio streamer at great value, whilst not compromising on its twin pillars of excellence and quality. We would be remiss not to mention the innovations Matrix took in both hardware and software elements. These improvements on hardware would have meant little if the software elements were lacking, such as unintuitive and frustrating controls. In here, Matrix put up aces in this department, allowing for such ease of use that the user can simply sit back, and enjoy a stress-free, and engaging audio playback session, in full view of a large LED display.  TT-1 packs so much in such a small space, even designing to allow an optional external linear power supply DC input, we were wowed to say the least. Priced at $2,599 inc. tax, it is a steal in every aspect, and for one who is looking to upgrade into a more separated desktop setup, look no further. [See Product Desc. For Detailed Improvements] With a full redesign of the chassis, the TT-1 has specially designed a DC power input, providing an option for customers wishing to further the TT-1’s performance potential with adding a linear power supply. When both external power and AC power are connected, the system prioritizes the external power supply and disconnects the AC power, retaining only the ground connection. Hence, you get the best of both worlds – a linear power supply, with the ground connection providing utmost stability. Doing so prevents noise to accumulate in the audio circuit, which will happen should there be a lack of grounding. In addition, the TT-1 is equipped with a power filter and multiple low-noise LDOs to power each circuit unit independently, ensuring pure and stable power delivery in every aspect. A further look into the circuitry reveals two ultra-low phase noise femtosecond clocks, each dedicated to serving as the clock reference for 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling rates and their multiples. Powered by independent low-noise linear regulators, and with intelligent control through FPGA, it automatically handles frequency division and switching operations. This design lays a solid foundation for low-jitter digital audio output, providing your DAC with the right feed to generate sublime audio playback. Aside from the standard RJ45 LAN port that provides a stable connection for high resolution audio streaming, TT-1’s Wi-Fi 6 connectivity further offers a simple and convenient solution for users who would prefer wireless connectivity. The ever-evolving MA Player Hi-Fi Streamer OS and MA Remote App seamlessly adapt to both iOS and Android devices, providing a smooth and intuitive experience whether you are on a smartphone or a tablet. Aside from being Roon Ready, the TT-1 also supports Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Airplay2, DLNA/UPnP, etc. ensuring all mainstream mediums for all your playback needs. The bottom of the device features an NVMe SSD slot, allowing for the installation of an SSD to expand on internal storage, providing more space to store your favourite go to music files. With the SMB protocol, computers on the same network can easily access the device's storage, making it simple to manage your music library. Additionally, the device can function as a NAS, enabling other streamers on the same network to seamlessly play the stored music. With a myriad of digital output options – Optical, coaxial, AES/EBU and the famed IIS-LVDS output ports (IIS-LVDS allows uncompromised 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512 capability for studio-master quality) – you can easily connect to various digital audio devices such as DACs and amplifiers, meeting all your diverse audio connection needs.  If connected to an active speaker with digital inputs, the TT-1 can serve to provide volume control as well, reducing the space needed for the user to have an additional speaker controller. With CDs coming back in vogue, TT-1 also has that aspect duly covered. Should anyone happen to have music stored in their CDs, simply plug in your CD player to the TT-1, and automatic CD-ripping takes place. That Matrix is able to pack in so much into a small chassis of 280 mm L * 210 mm W * 82 mm, colour us impressed. Should you wish to check out their flagship headfi digital streamer, do check out the NT-1, the bigger beast of a brother to the TT-1 for customers seeking even fuller audio refinement. Matrix's own writeup on the TT-1 also delves further into its exclusive features, and you may check it out here. Should you wish to check out all our other full-sized DAC/amps to shop for your preferred pairings, look here.

With Violectric, new launches always means pushing the envelope further. The HPA V324 introduces pre-gain at the front for comfortable gain switching to adapt to your preferences. By introducing annenuation on the incoming signal before the main amplification stage, this"volume control for the input" allows for even finer calibration when switching between varying DACs with different impedance and voltage needs, providing greater flexibility and pairing, all with the same amplifier. Featuring +/- 25 V internal operating voltage, the voltage swing it could deliver to its internal power supply rails makes the HPA 324 an excellent pairing choice with headphones such as the HEDDPhone Two GT, allowing its full audio potential to bloom.  No matter where your volume control or pre-gain settings are, a huge operating voltage always ensures you have more than sufficient headroom to drive nigh any headphone with V324. High damping factor is always a given, controlling the increasingly low-impedance flagship cans of today and tomorrow with more relevant authority than before. Having the power reserves and voltage headroom of V234 will serve you ably now and in the future.[See Product Desc. For More] This Violectric drives everything, from IEMs on the right pre-gain setting, to becoming the sweet spot for Final Audios, Focals, Fostexs and Rosson Audio Designs, to the ZMF Headphones Caldera, Hedd Audio's HEDDPhone 2 and naturally, HIFIMANs and Abyss Headphones. Take this new rendition of a German powerhouse as far as you want it, knowing its Lake Constance build under the watchful eyes of Fried Reim has stood the test of time ... and will continue to do so as an ever-present in Head-Fi. When you're ready, step up to Niimbus US5 – Violectric's ultimate flagship line – here, check out the brand's other precision tools here, or view all our other amplifiers here.

Measuring only a mere 21.7cm x 20.6 cm x 5 cm, the Wandla DAC executes on producing masterful audio playback far greater than its size would suggest. At the heart of Wandla lie the ESS Sabre ES-9038PRO chip, where Wandla works to further optimize and enhance an already competent IC chip with the unique creation of two additional “HQ” filters. Created by Ferrum with the renowned filter-maker Signalyst, these filters are called HQ Gaussian and HQ Apodizing. The others are namely ESS Linear Phase, ESS Minimum Phase, and ESS Apodizing. These digital filters allows the consumer the freedom to chose which they which is best paired to their choice of playback and setup, perfectly tailored to their needs. [See Product Desc. For More] The Wandla boosts a unique output cable design: two wires delivering the power and two wires providing the feedback to ensure flat voltage at every moment. This technique, named Ferrum Power Link (FPL), eliminates the harmful effects of the cable's resistance, and in doing so, effectively improving transient response. To take the performance of the Wandla to another notch, do consider pairing it with Ferrum’s very own Hypsos. Using the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) connection with 4TSD voltage sensing, the Hypsos will allow the Wandla to perform to its maximum, taking out otherwise unfiltered noise and distortion from an unclean power source.  The Wandla supports a full range of back-panel digital inputs: AES3, supporting PCM rates up to 24/192 and DoP up to DSD 64; TosLink (PCM up to 24/96); electrical S/PDIF on RCA (PCM up to 24/192); USB-C (PCM up to 32/768, DSD up to DSD 256); HDMI ARC (PCM up to 24/192); and I2S (PCM up to 32/768, DSD 256). The Wandla also offers full MQA decoding, giving a full suite of digital input options for all.

It's quite clear being named Oor (meaning 'ear') how Ferrum Audio intended their dedicated headphone amplifier to be enjoyed. Yet under the hood, there's so much to chew on from the collaborators of Mytek Audio's meteoric rise, about their compact overachieving flagship built to drive the best Head-Fi has to offer. Still we let the accolades judged by ear pour in from seasoned reviewers hailing EISA's Best Headphone Amplifier of 2022 supreme. It's on Headfonia's Recommended Buys list for a reason, and Headfonics were equally sweeping in their praise. [See Product Desc. For More] Oor was too fun for Soundnews who put Ferrum's upstart against the industry's top dogs. Even Hi-Fi-centric Part-Time Audiophile awarded it an Editors Choice, and Hi-Fi News an Outstanding Product award complete with measurements.  In Oor is the complete package. Ferrum managed to balance the demand for neutrality in a flagship source, with the deep, impactful bass of a DC-coupled design. The technical chops are on show throughout by the proudly Polish HEM, who built Mytek but know a thing or two about circuit design themselves.  Oor's business side of things – a power stage consisting of a discrete transistor op-amp designed from the ground up – remains inherently linear. Even before negative feedback is applied.  Excellent frequency response in the open-loop, without coupling capacitors in the signal path, allows excellent low-frequency performance guaranteeing tight bass. And high-frequency extension soars to 60Khz, before negative feedback took that out flat to 100Khz. Phase response in the human hearing range is stellar, for potent, precise and hard-hitting dynamics to show off your flagship headphones. READ ALSO The inside story designing Ferrum Oor Feedback is not of the ordinary variety either, with current feedback providing speed of the loop gain through the capacitance of solid-state transistors for low transient intermodulation and slew-induced distortion.  Ferrum make their good Oor great, meanwhile, biasing the transistors making up their proprietary power stage in novel manner. Sitting between a sliding bias Class A and high-bias Class AB output stage in definition, Oor achieves the best benefits of both – highly linear transistor operation, plus high efficiency and lower quiescent current and heat. Thus is 8 watts of power delivered into HIFIMAN's Susvara achieved. Oor gives you power in quantity as well as quality. Certainly the same thing can be said about the listener's level of enjoyment too, regardless of headphone. Take Oor up another notch with the addition of the HYPSOS power supply, browse all of Ferrum's products here, or view our other desktop devices 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.

Pasithea is the fruition of Cees Ruijtenberg's vision on what Non-Oversampling (NOS) R2R DACs can achieve, with Sonnet Audio's flagship overcoming the known challenges of this technology. Clear as water, the individual ripples of music are perfectly laid out for you without any murkiness. It joined Twittering Machines' list of Favourite Digital. SoundStage! deem it worth its flagship asking price. Pasithea was a revelation to Alpha Audio. Discover a truly reference DAC like Pasithea present NOS R2R as it should sound, discarding artificial soupy warmth for a clear, uncoloured pasture to music at frequency's extremes. You'll hear the natural micro and macro-dynamics of premium Dutch NOS R2R technology, reproduced faithful to the original file's samples by Sonnet's new top-of-the-line SDA-3 discrete resistor ladder modules – claimed to posses linearity, lower distortion and a noise floor 10 dB lower than the Morpheus. [See Product Desc. For More] No oversampling digital filter stands in the way of music, giving you near-perfect time-domain impulse with excellent phase response, helped by frequency response that doesn't truncate abruptly confined to obeying Nyquist laws. But don't let Sonnet's unprocessed lack of digital additives detract from its technical prowess – Ruijtenberg's and Co-Founder Lion Kwaaijtaal's technique of splitting a datastream's Most-Significant Bits (MSB) from its Least-Significant Bits (LSB) and decoding them separately for extreme dynamic range is proprietary. With a forward correction technique first employed to great effect at Metrum Acoustics, Ruijtenberg repeated the trick at Sonnet. Each of Pasithea's eight SDA-3 DACs contains an FPGA that separates the LSBs from the MSBs. Then, Pasithea increases the level of LSBs and decodes them as if they were MSBs, routed to the same, optimal top half of the SDA-3's resistor ladders. In this way, Sonnet's LSBs are not forced to be decoded at the nominally low bit level where they struggle and are otherwise swamped by switching noise. Splitting and boosting LSB level to be the same as the MSBs – before the former's very loud output is attenuated post-decoding and sewn seamlessly back together to form the whole signal at the right volume – yields an extremely linear DAC. Ruijtenberg's proprietary take led to a DAC that resolves a digital signal linearly down to a staggering -160dB, effectively making Pasithea capable of achieving greater than 24 bits of dynamic range without the use of DSP trickery like dither or noise-shaping.  This additive-free approach yields a sense of real quiet and realistic space between notes, as well as top-to-bottom phase correctness. Micro and macro-dynamics snap into place helped by the slew rate prowess of Pasithea. This kind of natural transparency is preserved by Sonnet's special volume control, achieved by adjusting the reference voltage of its SDA-3 DACs instead of normal attenuation, to preserve its resolution no matter how low or high its pre-amp is set. The extremely analog nature of Sonnet's operation extends to a jumper switch that lowers output by -10dB for use with downstream amplifiers that suffer from excessive gain. Indeed, with a DAC as capable as SDA-3, the demands on Pasithea's analog section are higher than ever. Direct-coupled outputs from Pasithea also means frequency response extends down to DC for deep, natural and taut bass plus all its harmonics. Similarly, the extremely low output impedance of Pasithea's output stage means that it'll drive any downstream amplifier such as Mass-Kobo capably without unwittingly forming a high-pass filter like some oriental R2R DACs – thus yielding an accurate, extended, low-frequency performance expected of a reference piece of equipment. Clever Dutch decoder design continues to keep discrete R2R DACs at the cutting-edge of digital audio this decade, a large portion of which can also be enjoyed on the Morpheus here. Check out all of Sonnet's products here, or our other DACs here.

Take your desktop and Hi-Fi systems to new heights with the Non-Oversampling (NOS) R2R Morpheus DAC from Sonnet Audio, affordable excellence from renowned digital designer Cees Ruijtenberg. Hear NOS R2R as it should be, discarding artificial soupy warmth for a clear, uncoloured pasture to music at frequency's extremes. Clear as water, the individual ripples of music are perfectly laid out for you without any murkiness. Stereophile loved Morpheus so much they bought the review unit. Darko.Audio "boldly asserts that the Morpheus is the most significant DAC Ruijtenberg has brought us to date". It's a Twittering Machines Favourite Digital nominee, and Alpha Audio praise Sonnet's "insane insight" into the music. You'll discover the natural micro and macro-dynamics of premium Dutch NOS R2R technology, reproduced faithful to the original file's samples by Sonnet's four in-house SDA-2 discrete resistor ladder modules. [See Product Desc. For More] No oversampling digital filter stands in the way of music, giving you near-perfect time-domain impulse with excellent phase response, helped by frequency response that doesn't truncate abruptly confined to obeying Nyquist laws. But don't let Sonnet's unprocessed lack of digital additives detract from its technical prowess – Ruijtenberg's and Co-Founder Lion Kwaaijtaal's technique of splitting a datastream's Most-Significant Bits (MSB) from its Least-Significant Bits (LSB) and decoding them separately for extreme dynamic range is proprietary. With a forward correction technique first employed to great effect at Metrum Acoustics, Ruijtenberg repeated the trick at Sonnet. Each of Morpheus' four SDA-2 DACs contains an FPGA that separates the LSBs from the MSBs. Then, Morpheus increases the level of LSBs and decodes them as if they were MSBs, routed to the same, optimal top half of the SDA-2's resistor ladders. In this way, Sonnet's LSBs are not forced to be decoded at the nominally low bit level where they struggle and are otherwise swamped by switching noise. Splitting and boosting LSB level to be the same as the MSBs – before the former's very loud output is attenuated post-decoding and sewn seamlessly back together to form the whole signal at the right volume – yields an extremely linear DAC. Ruijtenberg's proprietary take led to a DAC that resolves a digital signal down to -140dB, effectively making Morpheus capable of achieving 24 bits of dynamic range without the use of DSP trickery like dither or noise-shaping. This additive-free approach yields a sense of real quiet and realistic space between notes, as well as top-to-bottom phase correctness. Micro and macro-dynamics snap into place helped by the slew rate prowess of Morpheus. This kind of natural transparency is preserved by Sonnet's special volume control, achieved by adjusting the reference voltage of its SDA-2 DACs instead of normal attenuation, to preserve its resolution no matter how low or high its pre-amp is set. The extremely analog nature of Sonnet's operation extends to a jumper switch that lowers output by -10dB for use with downstream amplifiers that suffer from excessive gain. Direct-coupled outputs from Morpheus also means frequency response extends down to DC for deep, natural and taut bass plus all its harmonics. Clever Dutch decoder design continues to keep discrete R2R DACs at the cutting-edge of digital audio in 2025, something only surpassed by the flagship Pasithea here. Check out all of Sonnet's products here, or our other DACs here.

Livestreaming USB Audio Mixer

If you've got a good DAC, make it a great DAC by feeding it from a source like Matrix Audio's X-SPDIF 3. This superlative, over-performing Digital-to-Digital Converter (DDC) turns your USB into a high-quality, excellent sounding HDMI I2S or AES/EBU stream for the benefit of your music. In other words, it turns your pedestrian USB computer, smartphone or tablet source into an Element S. In essence. X-SPDIF 3's I2S-generating heart is the same as that found in Matrix's excellent network streamer. X-SPDIF 3 takes asynchronous control over your USB input data, re-clocking it and clearly identifying your music's bit, master and word clocks to send in no uncertain terms to your downstream DAC. Matrix's little hub leaves no room for doubt – its SPDIF coaxial RCA and AES/EBU outputs leave USB sound quality in the dirt.  After FPGA processing, Element S generates pure I2S data and outputs it via HDMI to any Matrix, Denafrips, Holo Audio or other DAC complying with four pin-out standards for best DAC compatability. Otherwise, this I2S data as well as the source bit, master and word clock presided over by Accusilicon crystal oscillators may be packaged into S/PDIF with the premier standard of AES/EBU – perfect for dCS Data Conversion Systems Lina – backed up by co-axial RCA and optical outputs. Take it to new heights by upgrading its 12 volt DC power supply (not included) via one from iFi Audio, and forever forget the woes of USB sound. After discovering this cure to digi-itis, shop for a DAC from Matrix here, or view our other digital here.

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.

The convergence point of Violectric's progress making amplifiers since 1986, HPA V550 takes the power, detail silent background and dynamics you all know and love, distilling that into a single powerhouse chassis. Make no mistake – V550 is first and foremost a brute capable of pushing over 12 watts into HIFIMAN's Susvara. But it also tells you it's not just about the power figures but rather how they're channeled into your flagship headphones. And achieving 131dB of dynamic range is certainly an enviable feat for something so powerful. Violectric achieve that through V550's low internal gain. Their signature pre-gain switches allow further trim of the volume knob, always ensuring your prized asset is operating at its best signal-to-noise ratio. [See Product Desc. For More] No matter where your volume control or pre-gain settings are, a huge operating voltage always ensures you have more than sufficient headroom to drive nigh any headphone with V550. 16 output transistors certainly enjoy being run in the most linear regions of their transfer curve, already achieving low noise and distortion in the open-loop before the application of negative feedback. What goes in comes out the same – and V550's fully-balanced, differential operation yields common-mode rejection that also lends itself to this amplifier's huge claimed 131dB dynamic range. The direct-coupled V550 promises frequency extension that is virtually flat near DC to 250Khz, meaning phase response in the human hearing range is stellar. High frequency spatial cues are true to life, reproducing Violectric's effortless soundstage here, again aided by a huge 50 volt operating voltage. Violectric's output transistors in turn reap the benefits of V550's dual-mono power supply, ably handing the current produced to transfer into your headphones as an excellent voltage source. High damping factor is always a given, controlling the increasingly low-impedance flagship cans of today and tomorrow with more relevant authority than before. Having the power reserves and voltage headroom of V550 will serve you ably now and in the future. This Violectric drives everything, from IEMs on the right pre-gain setting, to becoming the sweet spot for Final Audios, Focals, Fostexs and Rosson Audio Designs, to the ZMF Headphones Caldera, Hedd Audio's HEDDPhone 2 and naturally, HIFIMANs and Abyss Headphones. Take this classic German powerhouse as far as you want it, knowing its Lake Constance build under the watchful eyes of Fried Reim has stood the test of time ... and will continue to do so as an ever-present in Head-Fi. When you're ready, step up to Niimbus US5 – Violectric's ultimate flagship line – here, check out the brand's other precision tools here, or view all our other amplifiers here.

Amplifiers need not be expensive for the basics of good, linear design to be standard. Violectric's HPA V222 channels the essence of the brand's best technology. The Germans give you a discrete, highly linear open-loop design capable of pushing 7 watts. With a huge op-amp-killing operating voltage and 16 output transistors capable of handling current and producing bandwidth monolithic IC designs wouldn't, V222 bears the hallmarks of the Niimbus series and other Violectric flagships. Massive bandwidth and effortless sound – no doubt helped by its low open-loop gain without massive amounts of negative feedback to close it down – allows V222 to show its class and achieve 131dB of claimed dynamic range. Its suitability as a steed for the likes of Focal's Utopia cannot be understated, achieving close to its maximum power output into this French flagship. V222's adequacy as a voltage source with high damping factor and low output impedance combines with its silent background to yield all the resolution your Utopia can deliver. [See Product Desc. For More] No matter where your volume control or pre-gain settings are, a huge operating voltage always ensures you have more than sufficient headroom to drive headphones many times the cost of V222. 16 output transistors certainly enjoy being run in the most linear regions of their transfer curve, already achieving low noise and distortion in the open-loop before the application of negative feedback. The direct-coupled V222 promises frequency extension that is virtually flat near DC to 250Khz, meaning phase response in the human hearing range is stellar. Achieving this without the gain bandwidth stability problems of op-amps is already a big plus. High frequency spatial cues spring to life freed from the chains of excessive negative feedback, reproducing Violectric's effortless soundstage, again aided by a massive 50 volt operating voltage. High damping factor is also always a given in a Violectric, controlling the increasingly low-impedance flagship cans of today and tomorrow with more relevant authority than before. Having the power reserves and voltage headroom of V222 will serve you ably now and in the future. Violectric's output transistors are able to handle current and transfer raw power into your headphones. This Violectric drives common loads and beyond, from IEMs on the right pre-gain setting. While capable of producing power into tough loads, V222's sweet spot lies with the slightly higher impedances of Final Audios, Focals and ZMF Headphones. Take this classic German powerhouse as far as you want it, knowing its Lake Constance build under the watchful eyes of Fried Reim has stood the test of time ... and will continue to do so as an ever-present in Head-Fi. When you're ready, check out the brand's other precision tools here, or view all our other amplifiers here.