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Challenging FiiO DM15 R2R against (2)Shanling & Moondrop - search for best portable CD player review
R2R on the go - Analog Magic in a Modern Portable CD Player Fiio tries to capture that warm vintage sound with their new portable CD player. And they really are investing a lot of money into improving and adapting their R2R technology. And it is becoming an important staple into Fiio arsenal, on the box itself there is no Fiio logo, there is only R2R that is what they want to preserve to future buyers and listeners. You are listening to specially R2R product made by Fiio. I a
5 days ago11 min read
Quick Review: FiiO EH11 is 30$ Masterpiece with unreal value
I know that we are constantly surprised every day how much modern technology allows more engineering for less. So we get products that 10–5 years ago we could not even fathom at this price range. Well Fiio EH11 is that product! For 30 dollars you get seriously good over-ear headphones featuring 40 mm dynamic drivers with a high-damping composite diaphragm optimized for energetic bass and responsive mids. Semi-open design allows for a more spacious soundstage than many closed
6 days ago4 min read
News
Incredibly looking Sendy Audio KYLIN: A Class A DAC/Headphone Amp Built for Pure, Natural Sound
First seen at CanJam NYC, Sendy’s KYLIN desktop DAC/amp combines ESS Sabre decoding, Class A amplification and premium components in a sleek all-in-one design. High-end headphone specialist Sendy Audio has officially launched the Sendy Audio KYLIN , a new high-resolution desktop DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at listeners who want clean, transparent and natural sound in a single compact system. Originally previewed at the renowned headphone event CanJam NYC 2025 , the KY
17 minutes ago3 min read
HiFiMAN Launches HE1000 WiFi and Arya WiFi: Planar Headphones with Built-In R2R DACs
The new models replace Bluetooth as the primary wireless link with direct WiFi streaming — while integrating R2R DAC technology directly inside the earcups. High-end headphone specialist HiFiMAN has introduced two of the most unconventional wireless headphones in recent memory: the HiFiMAN HE1000 WiFi and the HiFiMAN Arya WiFi . Unlike most wireless headphones that rely primarily on Bluetooth, these new models use direct WiFi audio transmission , allowing listeners to strea
28 minutes ago4 min read
Grado Signature S550 Headphones Arrive with Walnut Craftsmanship and a Warm, Relaxed Sound
The Brooklyn audio specialist expands its premium Signature lineup with a new open-back model designed for effortless, fatigue-free listening. American headphone maker Grado Labs has unveiled the Grado Signature S550 , the newest addition to its high-end Signature Series. Positioned as a more relaxed-sounding alternative within the lineup, the S550 aims to deliver warmth, openness and clarity while maintaining the speed and detail that have long defined the brand’s signatur
17 hours ago2 min read
Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2: A High-End DAC That Lets You Shape Your Sound
With redesigned bass control, tube-inspired tonality and expanded spatial processing, Ferrum’s latest WANDLA update puts unprecedented sound customization into the hands of audiophiles. High-end audio specialist Ferrum Audio has unveiled the Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 , the latest evolution of its acclaimed DAC/preamplifier platform. Building on the success of the award-winning WANDLA — recognized by the EISA — the new GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 introduces major
18 hours ago3 min read
Leak TruStream: The British Hi-Fi Icon Enters the Streaming Era
With walnut cabinetry, cutting-edge DAC tech and modern streaming support, Leak’s first-ever network player blends vintage charm with ultra-resolution digital performance. The legendary British hi-fi brand Leak has officially stepped into the world of modern streaming with the launch of its first dedicated network player: the Leak TruStream . Combining state-of-the-art digital audio technology with the brand’s unmistakable mid-century aesthetic, the TruStream aims to bridge
18 hours ago3 min read
FiiO’s 2026 Desktop Roadmap: Class A Purism, R2R Evolution and a Push Into Gaming
From a pure Class A amplifier to a next-gen R2R flagship and even a gaming-focused amp, FiiO’s 2026 desktop lineup reveals a brand balancing nostalgia, engineering reality and market expansion. In the latest update from company founder James, FiiO outlined its 2026 plans for desktop DACs and headphone amplifiers — and started with a surprisingly candid discussion about product lifecycles. Why Audio Gear Can’t Stay the Same Forever Users often complain about rapid product upd
6 days ago3 min read
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Speakers
These Speakers made me Rethink my Entire Hi-Fi System Fiio SP5 Speakers review
While there is a preconception in the audiophile world, that if you want great gear and utmost quality you should go with passive speakers and separate components. While that might be true, it is a more expensive road to travel, even though it is more flexible and allows for experimentation. Destroying preconceptions But more and more we see active speakers “actively” knocking on the door of that perception and blurring the line between just monitors and great audiophile hi-f
Jan 2911 min read
The KEF Speaker That Finally Changed My Mind - Q Concerto Meta review / w. 5 alternatives
I think KEF is one of those companies that you either really like their products, or you think they are overrated. And I think that is more about the philosophy of KEF, that they are always sticking to their guns. It is very transparent, clean, and insightful performance. Fixing one of the biggest KEF weaknesses If you like that, it certainly brings a lot of value, as they do that amazingly for an affordable price. They created shockwaves around the globe with LS50 and LS50 M
Jan 510 min read
Edifier have created perfect budget desktop speakers M60 review
I wanted to buy some cheap desktop alternatives for my work desk as a way to see what's up with the cheaper speaker market. I tested a...
Jul 31, 20259 min read
Greatest audiophile speaker no one is talking about - Dali Menuet Review
I spent a lot of time in audio shops, listening to many different speakers. Trying to find which one I will like, buy and eventually...
Jul 17, 202512 min read
Amplifiers
Fosi`s best amp yet BT20A MAX Review
Fosi pushing further The Fosi Audio BT20A MAX arrives as the latest contender in compact high-fidelity amplification, carving a niche between affordable desktop amps and more traditional integrated designs. It represents Fosi’s most ambitious effort yet to marry robust power delivery, advanced Bluetooth streaming, and flexible connectivity in a chassis small enough for desktop or living-room placement. It is a never-ending chase to achieve as much as you can for as little mon
Mar 19 min read
This is one of the most important amps in the past 10 years - Marantz M1 review
I do not take this title lightly, it was a thought that was brewing in me for one year now. I have kept Marantz M1 as one of my absolute must-haves to buy when it was announced. But life is not always what we want, so actually to acquire it, it took me some time. And you know what they say: great things come for those who wait, or save money. Why Marantz M1 is so special But what I saw in Marantz M1 was a direct competition to the rising tide of eastern competitors, who start
Feb 2218 min read
Douk Audio x Ampapa A1 brings outstanding versatility and quality at 129$ preamp review vs. Fosi and Aiyima
I recommend that you look at my review of Ampapa D1 for a more fuller picture of collaboration of Douk Audio and Ampapa. But here we have a really great product. Why you need preamp A product that on its own is a bit hard sell, but as a supplementary product is a must have, ofc I speak about A1 preamp, to your amp. And as with every Class D amps, these tube preamps just go so well just like butter on a jelly. Its warmth and emphasis on lower spectrum of dynamics scale, helps
Dec 8, 20256 min read
Finally stylish, cheap and good amp Douk Audio x Ampapa D1 review / vs Fosi and Ayima
I think we all can agree that sonic renaissance that came from the East brought many quality cheap devices, will that be DACs, streamers, amp etc. But while they are masters of using chip devices to maximise its quality and value, there is always a lot to be desired with looks of those devices. Very simple design language in industrial design and software design alike. I wanted for long time to see some experimentation here. And while Douk Audio is not aimed to win design awa
Dec 6, 20258 min read
HEADPHONES AND GEAR
Challenging FiiO DM15 R2R against (2)Shanling & Moondrop - search for best portable CD player review
R2R on the go - Analog Magic in a Modern Portable CD Player Fiio tries to capture that warm vintage sound with their new portable CD player. And they really are investing a lot of money into improving and adapting their R2R technology. And it is becoming an important staple into Fiio arsenal, on the box itself there is no Fiio logo, there is only R2R that is what they want to preserve to future buyers and listeners. You are listening to specially R2R product made by Fiio. I a
5 days ago11 min read
Quick Review: FiiO EH11 is 30$ Masterpiece with unreal value
I know that we are constantly surprised every day how much modern technology allows more engineering for less. So we get products that 10–5 years ago we could not even fathom at this price range. Well Fiio EH11 is that product! For 30 dollars you get seriously good over-ear headphones featuring 40 mm dynamic drivers with a high-damping composite diaphragm optimized for energetic bass and responsive mids. Semi-open design allows for a more spacious soundstage than many closed
6 days ago4 min read
Quick Review: New Snowsky Echo DAP is far more than just Nostalgia bait
Snowsky Echo DAPs are an answer for young people that want to be part of nostalgia trend of listening to mp3 players. But while it looks, and behaves like that it is also aimed at people who want to experience more audiophile sound through their headphones. It certainly can be a gate to start swimming in this lovely hobby of being an audiophile. I personally really love the look, especially in green one, gold accents, like the turn on and off looks marvelous. The size and wei
6 days ago5 min read
NF ACOUS NH20 Review | A True Studio Monitor for Music Lovers? Musical and Accurate
The NF ACOUS NH20 is the brand’s first foray into full-size over-ear headphones, expanding from their long history of in-ear monitors into a closed-back studio monitor design. Positioned around ~$199 USD, the NH20 aims to offer both studio-ready neutrality and enjoyable everyday musicality, bridging the gap between professional monitoring and consumer listening use. This makes it appealing to creators, audio enthusiasts, and listeners who prefer accurate yet engaging sound.
Feb 195 min read
Music STREAMERS
This is one of the most important amps in the past 10 years - Marantz M1 review
I do not take this title lightly, it was a thought that was brewing in me for one year now. I have kept Marantz M1 as one of my absolute must-haves to buy when it was announced. But life is not always what we want, so actually to acquire it, it took me some time. And you know what they say: great things come for those who wait, or save money. Why Marantz M1 is so special But what I saw in Marantz M1 was a direct competition to the rising tide of eastern competitors, who start
Feb 2218 min read
This is the best streamer of 2025, but it is just not for me... yet FiiO S15 review
*My unit have been damaged in the transport, but it was just cosmetically and nothing on handwear level. As of long waiting time to...
Sep 30, 202517 min read
Tiny, Wireless & Surprisingly Good! Arylic LP10 Streamer Review
Arylic as a company have a great reputation among DIY circles. They build quality and cheap components for you to build your amps, active...
Jul 8, 20256 min read
In-depth review of Bluesound Node Icon (vs. Cambridge Audio CXN100, Eversolo DMP-A6, Wiim Ultra, Primare NP5...)
It is becoming more and more apparent that we live in a future era of hi-fi, where music streamers play a pivotal role, allowing...
Feb 25, 202518 min read
DACS
Not the best-in-class, not perfect — yet the FiiO K13 R2R is my favorite sub-$400 DAC
I think Fiio is openly aiming to create a more warmer, more musical experience with their devices. We can see that with this DAC, we can see that with their headphones like FT13, with also new DAC called Warmer, believe it or not. Same thing creating R2R DAP with M33. Fiio building their own personal sonic signature Fiio wants to develop kinda like a brand sonic image, same thing like Rega, when you think about their products, you think about brighter detailed sound. I guess
Feb 59 min read
I have never seen DAC like this Ampapa Q1 review
I have already reviewed the first two products from Ampapa, the A1 preamp and D1 amp. Both solid and great products, that had distinguished style and regarding the D1 amp, great sonics that can rival all the best products in that price range. In the description of this video, I will link to my reviews of these products. Ampapa D1 review: https://www.hifidaydreaming.com/post/finally-stylish-cheap-and-good-amp-douk-audio-x-ampapa-d1-review-vs-fosi-and-ayima Ampapa A1 review: .
Feb 28 min read
Amazing Design, DAC and Power Output at 399$ D&A Alpha Review /vs Topping, Fiio, Ifi
I don't remember a device that was a company's first device creating that many ripples in the sea of audiophiles. Their Alpha Pro DAC was received pretty well among both subjective and objective reviewers, which to me is always such a surprise for a device like this. Amazing Design And not just that, its looks are so modern and, let's say, unique that it left an impression on me. It reminds me of another Chinese company called Nothing, which makes mobile phones, etc. This fee
Jan 2511 min read
SMSL PS200 PRO is a tiny HIFI miracle that cares about sonics and your budget
At first glance, the SMSL PS200 barely registers as a serious hi-fi component. Its extremely compact form factor and understated design suggest convenience rather than ambition. Yet once integrated into a proper system, the PS200 reveals itself as a surprisingly disciplined and capable digital-to-analog converter, one that places transparency and control above coloration and spectacle. Built around ESS Technology’s latest 9039Q2M DAC chip, the PS200 is designed to deliver ext
Dec 23, 20256 min read
CD PLAYERs
Challenging FiiO DM15 R2R against (2)Shanling & Moondrop - search for best portable CD player review
R2R on the go - Analog Magic in a Modern Portable CD Player Fiio tries to capture that warm vintage sound with their new portable CD player. And they really are investing a lot of money into improving and adapting their R2R technology. And it is becoming an important staple into Fiio arsenal, on the box itself there is no Fiio logo, there is only R2R that is what they want to preserve to future buyers and listeners. You are listening to specially R2R product made by Fiio. I a
5 days ago11 min read
SMSL have created best value cd player on market. PL100 Pro review
Modern versatile player in 2026 The idea of buying a CD player in 2026 is always going to be fascinating to me and bring a smile to my face. I have been a huge supporter of CDs, and for SMSL to deliver budget-friendly CD players with the PL20, PL100, and PL150 is just the right gateway that people need to start appreciating this great format more. But recently SMSL released the PL100 Pro, which muddies the waters about which one you should buy — the 100 or the 150. Well, don’
Feb 267 min read
New Shanling EC Zero AKM is peak value and quality for portable CD Players Review vs. FiiO Dm13, EC Zero T, Moondrop Discdream 2 Ultra
*More information, videos and photos of this product in review above I think I started my audio lover career at the twilight of cassette players. I personally never liked cassette players, I think they were a portable necessity of their age, but just could never translate well into the future once newer and greater things arrived. But what brought me to this stage of life was my love of portable CD players. I used to listen to music so much that often I would fall asleep with
Oct 27, 202512 min read
Finally the future of CD Players is here, and it is Awesome! SMSL PL200t Review
You guys know I love CDs, I started my audiophile journey by collecting CDs. It still is my favourite way to listen to music, maybe not...
Jun 8, 202510 min read
Turntables and phono Equipment
Best First Turntable you can buy FiiO TT13 review /vs. Pro-Ject E1 phono, Audio-Technica AT-LP3
Let’s say you are a vinyl enthusiast, you collected vinyls, and you want to buy your first turntable or to upgrade from all-in-one suitcase turntables. And you don’t know what you want. For who this turntable is? What is manual, automatic, direct/belt drive, phono preamplifier? Can I have Bluetooth as well, speakers…? These are all valid questions, and the role of your first serious audiophile turntable should be to answer all of those. And will it throw you into the waters o
Feb 147 min read
The Best 50€ You’ll Spend on Your Turntable upgrade – PSVANE Horizon Tube Review
I honestly think if you have tubes in your system, and you like Vinyl, this 50 euro upgrade is essential. I really think how much value and improvement you get from these tubes is miles beyond your stock ones that you get with your device. I used PS Vanes Horizon 12ax7 tubes to improve my phono preamp that I have currently in possession. I used to dabble a little bit with tube rolling, having tubes from Telefunken, Mullard in my possession at different times.
Apr 28, 20257 min read
Sumiko Amethyst & Ortofon 2M Black are End Game MM cartridges! /w. alternatives (Nagaoka, Goldring)
See my favorite Phono Cartridges under 750 euros: https://www.hifidaydreaming.com/post/my-favorite-best-phono-cartridges-under-750-euros-...
Nov 7, 202412 min read
Wiim Pro Plus Review vs. Budget CD Player/Turntable (Pro-Ject Primary E Phono and CD Box E) - Battle of Budget Sources
This will mainly be a Wiim Pro Plus review, but I also want to put one idea into perspective. How much value does a budget streamer bring...
Jul 12, 202415 min read
HIFI MISCELLANEOUS
Report from Shenzhen International Audio Show 2025 w/ Smsl, FiiO, Dunu, Hiby, Moondrop, Softears, Eversolo, Matrix Audio, Sendy Audio, Gustard, Shanling, Luxsin, Fosi...
All the new announcements from SIAS 2025 *For more pictures, clips and additional information watch video report above. What is SIAS 2025...
Sep 5, 202515 min read
How far does the HIFI Rabbit Hole goes? /W. Audioquest Powerquest 3 Review
Audioquest PowerQuest 3 Review So power filters, power conditioners. A very ambiguous subject in the HIFI world; many say they don't do...
Aug 28, 20255 min read
Battle of best value XLR Cables Oehlbach XXL 1, QED Reference 40 and AudioQuest Red River
Oehlbach XXL 1 XLR Review The Oehlbach XXL Series 1 XLR is a high-performance, German-engineered audio cable designed with one goal in...
Jul 14, 20257 min read
Dirac Live: The One Tool EVERY Audiophile Should Own! Room Correction In-depth review
Tell me now what is the biggest improvement to your sound, beside buying a new HIFI Gear, that you can bring tangible great results for...
Jun 28, 202512 min read
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