In their recent review, Hi-Fi Choice delved into the Rega Aethos integrated amplifier, offering high praise for its minimalist design and powerful performance.

The Aethos, priced at £3,300, is seen as a standout product in its class, embodying Rega’s signature approach to high-quality, no-nonsense audio equipment.

Minimalist Design and Functionality

One of the key aspects Hi-Fi Choice appreciated about the Aethos is its stripped-back design. Unlike many modern amplifiers, the Aethos lacks features like DACs, Bluetooth, and even a phono stage, which many competitors include.

However, Hi-Fi Choice sees this as part of the amplifier’s charm. Its minimalism allows the Aethos to focus on delivering outstanding sound quality without distractions, aligning perfectly with Rega’s philosophy of keeping things simple and effective.

Despite its minimalist approach, Hi-Fi Choice notes that the Aethos still offers useful inputs, including five line inputs, a tape loop, and power amp in and preamp out sockets.

There’s also a fascia-mounted 6.35mm headphone jack with a matching stage, which is seen as the amplifier’s only luxury feature.

Technical Highlights

Designed by Terry Bateman, the Aethos runs on Class AB circuitry with doubled-up Sanken Darlington transistors, which contribute to its powerful output of 125W per channel.

Hi-Fi Choice also pointed out its unique volume control system, which adjusts both input and feedback levels. This, combined with a Linear Systems FET and an ALPS Blue Velvet volume potentiometer, ensures precise and dynamic sound control.

While the amplifier’s ergonomics might take a little getting used to, Hi-Fi Choice believes its overall build quality and design more than compensate for any initial learning curve.

Sound Performance

Hi-Fi Choice is particularly impressed with the Aethos’ sound quality, describing it as both “clean” and “smooth,” with a subtly warm undertone.

The review highlights the amplifier’s ability to handle different genres of music with finesse, making it a versatile performer. From punchy, well-recorded tracks to more delicate classical pieces, the Aethos maintains a balance of detail, rhythm, and power.

One of the most striking aspects of the Aethos, according to Hi-Fi Choice, is its combination of power and subtlety. It handles complex, dynamic crescendos with ease while offering a sense of poise and musicality that sets it apart from its competition.

Hi-Fi Choice also noted how it delivers an insightful, fluid, and delicate vocal presentation that is particularly appealing.

Verdict on the Rega Aethos

In conclusion, Hi-Fi Choice considers the Rega Aethos to be a brilliant amplifier for those who value sound quality over unnecessary features.

It offers powerful, engaging sound wrapped in a minimalist design. While it may not include the latest digital features or a phono stage, Hi-Fi Choice believes that its sonic performance more than compensates, making it an excellent choice for serious audio enthusiasts.

Read more at www.hifichoice.com

The Ear has long admired Dynavector for their excellence in creating high-quality cartridges, and their review of the Dynavector XX-2A continues this tradition.

The publication’s enthusiasm for the XX-2A is palpable, highlighting its innovative features and remarkable sound quality.

Historical Context and Innovations

Dynavector, established in 1978 by Dr Noboru Tominari, has consistently pushed the boundaries in cartridge design.

The excitement of Dynavector’s early achievements

The Ear recalls the excitement of Dynavector’s early achievements, such as the high-output moving coil 10X and the Karat series, known for their gemstone cantilevers. The XX-2A continues this legacy with its advanced magnetic circuit and use of Alnico magnets, which are praised for their lower magnetic resistance and superior sound quality.

XX-2A Technical Specifications

The Ear notes that the XX-2A includes a 6mm solid boron cantilever and a Pathfinder line contact stylus. The body is machined from aluminium, ensuring durability and precision. Stainless steel bolts secure the front and rear yokes of the magnetic circuit, and the cartridge boasts an output voltage of 0.28mV with a recommended load impedance of more than 30 Ohms. These specifications contribute to the cartridge’s excellent performance.

XX-2A Sound Quality

When it comes to sound, The Ear’s review is glowing. The XX-2A was tested with a Pro-Ject Evo Premium arm and Avid Accent integrated amplifier, producing impressive results.

At a load impedance of 30 Ohms, the XX-2A delivered open and dynamic piano sounds, sharp and punchy drums, and tuneful bass guitar lines.

The Ear was particularly impressed with the cartridge’s ability to handle different tracking forces, finding that a tracking force of 1.8g provided the best sound quality.

XX-2A Listening tests

The Ear’s listening tests included a variety of music genres and recordings. The XX-2A conveyed the energy and dynamics of jazz and rock tracks with precision.

On Ben Sidran’s “Bop City,” the cartridge captured the relentless energy of the bass guitar, the clean and tight drums, and the expressive vocals.

Similarly, on Bob James and David Sanborn’s “Double Vision,” the XX-2A handled the complex bass lines and powerful saxophone notes with ease, delivering a balanced and articulate performance.

For acoustic music, the XX-2A also excelled. The Ear highlighted the cartridge’s performance on Stephen Fearing’s “The Secret of Climbing,” noting how it captured the expressiveness of the vocals and the articulation of the guitar.

The cartridge conveyed the dynamics and power of the music, making it feel as if Fearing was performing live in the room.

Conclusion on the XX-2A

In conclusion, The Ear is highly impressed with the Dynavector XX-2A. The review praises its detailed, dynamic, and engaging sound, noting that it provides great insights into the music.

Vocals are described as natural and uncoloured, with a foot-tapping, tuneful quality that makes listening a pleasure.

At £1,799, The Ear considers the XX-2A to be excellent value for money and highly recommends it to those in the market for a high-quality moving coil cartridge.

For more information, get in touch with Audience Today.

Rega ND3 Moving Magnet Cartridge

The Rega ND3 moving magnet cartridge stands as the latest innovation from Rega, replacing the longstanding Elys 2 model. The ND3 incorporates advanced technology and design elements borrowed from Rega’s moving coil (MC) family, promising enhanced performance at an accessible price point.

Key Features of the Rega ND3 Moving Magnet Cartridge

Performance of the Moving Magnet Cartridge

The ND3 offers a dynamic and refined sound, delivering exceptional performance for its price. It excels in capturing details and providing an engaging listening experience across various music genres. The cartridge handles bass frequencies with impressive speed and control, integrating seamlessly with the midrange.

Pros:

•Dynamic and refined sound quality

•Forgiving measurements and requirements

•Well-made and easy to use

Cons:

•Not as spacious as some rivals

Installation and Usability

Weighing around 6 grams, the ND3 is lightweight and easy to install. The three-point mount system simplifies alignment, particularly for Rega turntable owners. The cartridge’s output of over 5mV makes it compatible with a wide range of turntables, ensuring versatility.

Sound Quality

When tested on the Rega Planar 10, the ND3 demonstrated quiet operation, excellent tracking, and a seamless partnership with the iFi ZEN Phono 3. It captures rhythms effectively, delivering an energetic and engaging sound. Compared to rivals like the Goldring E4, the ND3 offers a more fun and lively listening experience.

Conclusion

The Rega ND3 is a significant step forward in the world of affordable moving magnet cartridges. It brings some of the energy and dynamics of Rega’s moving coil designs to a lower price point, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of turntables. The ND3 is a worthy successor to the Elys 2, offering improved performance and ease of use.

AVForums Ratings and Award

AVForums has rated the Rega ND3 highly across several categories:

Read more here: Rega Nd3 Moving Magnet Cartridge Review or, click here to contact us.

Overview of the Rega Elex MK4

Here’s more about the Rega Elex Mk4 Integrated Amp.

The Rega Elex MK4 stands as a remarkable example of audio excellence, blending technological innovation with acoustic precision. This amplifier is not just a device but an experience, offering an auditory journey that enriches every note and sound.

Key Aspects of the Rega Elex MK4

Innovative Circuit Design

At the heart of the Rega Elex MK4’s performance is its innovative circuit design, ensuring minimal interference and maximum sound clarity. This design philosophy is pivotal in delivering a pure and authentic audio experience.

Enhanced Phono Stage for Vinyl Lovers

The integrated phono stage is a testament to Rega’s commitment to vinyl enthusiasts, providing a detailed and warm analogue sound that resonates with depth and clarity.

Ease of Use and Aesthetics

With a focus on user experience, the Rega Elex MK4 features a simple yet elegant interface and design, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners.

Performance Evaluation: A Comparison with AVForums Review

Sound Quality and Fidelity

The AVForums review acknowledges the exceptional sound quality of the Rega Elex MK4, highlighting its dynamic range and precise sound reproduction. This amplifier delivers a balanced and immersive audio experience, surpassing the expectations set by the review.

Build Quality and Design

The Rega Elex MK4’s construction is both sturdy and visually appealing. Its sleek design, noted in the AVForums review, blends seamlessly into any environment, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to any audio setup.

User Feedback and Professional Acclaim

Consistent Praise from Users

The user feedback for the Rega Elex MK4 aligns with the AVForums review, consistently praising its sound quality, build, and design. It has become a preferred choice for those seeking an authentic and enriching audio experience.

Read their review by clicking here.

Conclusion: A Superior Choice in Integrated Amplifiers

The Rega Elex MK4, through its advanced features and exceptional performance, stands not only in alignment with the AVForums review but also surpasses it in various aspects. It embodies a perfect blend of technological innovation and acoustic fidelity, making it a leading choice in the world of integrated amplifiers.

Click here to contact us for more information about the Rega Elex Mk4 Integrated Amp Review.

Ruark Audio R2 Mk4: A Deep Dive into Audio Excellence

Introduction: The Dawn of a New Audio Era

When one thinks of superior sound quality combined with state-of-the-art design, the Ruark Audio R2 Mk4 inevitably comes to mind. This piece aims to provide an in-depth exploration of this audio (HiFi) masterpiece, shedding light on its unparalleled features, groundbreaking performance, and the innovative technology that powers it.

Features: A Tapestry of Technical Mastery

1. Aesthetics and Build

The Ruark Audio R2 Mk4 is not just an audio device; it’s a work of art. The meticulously crafted wooden cabinet is not only visually appealing but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing the acoustic properties of the device. The modern design, complemented by tactile controls and a high-resolution OLED display, makes it a centrepiece in any setting.

2. Comprehensive Connectivity

In an era where seamless connectivity is the norm, the R2 Mk4 stands tall:

• Wi-Fi Integration: This ensures uninterrupted streaming and offers multi-room capabilities, allowing users to connect multiple devices and create an immersive audio environment.
• Bluetooth with AptX: This feature guarantees superior sound quality, ensuring that every note is transmitted with precision.
• Spotify Connect: A boon for Spotify Premium users, this feature facilitates direct streaming, bringing millions of tracks to one’s fingertips.
• DAB, DAB+ and FM Tuner: Catering to purists, this feature ensures that traditional radio is just a click away.

3. Unmatched Sound Quality

The heart of the R2 Mk4 lies in its sound reproduction. With an integrated active subwoofer and stereo speakers, it promises a sound experience that’s balanced, dynamic, and true to the source.

Delving into Performance: An Acoustic Journey

1. Bass Dynamics

One of the standout features of the R2 Mk4 is its profound bass response. It captures the soul of every rhythm, from the gentle hum of a bass guitar to the pulsating beats of electronic dance music, ensuring that listeners feel every vibration.

2. Midrange Clarity and Treble Precision

The midrange of the R2 Mk4 is where vocals and instruments come to life. Every nuance, every emotion is rendered with clarity. The treble, meanwhile, is sharp and defined, adding a layer of brilliance to the overall sound spectrum.

3. Expansive Soundstage and Accurate Imaging

Listeners are transported to a live concert setting, thanks to the R2 Mk4’s expansive soundstage. The imaging is so precise that one can almost visualise the position of each instrument, creating a 3D auditory experience.

The Technology Behind the Magic

At its core, the Ruark Audio R2 Mk4 is a technological marvel. The Class A-B amplifier ensures that sound is reproduced with minimal distortion. The adaptive equalisation, on the other hand, adjusts the sound based on the surroundings, ensuring that listeners get a tailored audio experience irrespective of the environment.

In Conclusion: Redefining Audio Standards

The Ruark Audio R2 Mk4 is not just a testament to sound engineering; it’s a revolution. It challenges and redefines existing audio standards, offering an experience that’s immersive, authentic, and unparalleled. For audiophiles and casual listeners alike, the R2 Mk4 is not just a choice; it’s a statement.

Credits & Content.

Images & Original review from WhatHiFi.

Here’s Audience’s Naim Uniti Nova Review. If you’d like more information about the Naim Uniti Nova, get in touch with us today.

The Wonderful Naim Uniti Nova Revisited.

The Naim Uniti Nova is an all-in-one audio system that redefines the music-listening experience.

Expertly crafted, this high-end device stands as a testament to Naim’s commitment to excellence in the realm of audio technology.

Naim Uniti Nova Review: A First Glance

The Naim Uniti Nova greets you with a sense of luxury and promise from the moment you unveil it from its packaging.

Its robust, carefully engineered body promises an immersive and enriching auditory experience right from the outset.

The Art of Design: A Closer Look at the Naim Uniti Nova

The craftsmanship that has gone into the Naim Uniti Nova is second to none. Enclosed in a black brushed aluminium casing, the Uniti Nova’s physical attributes are as appealing as its performance capabilities.

The device features a full-colour LCD glass display that enhances visual appeal while also simplifying operation. Its user-friendly design ensures that you enjoy a hassle-free and enriching experience at every step.

Power and Performance: What Lies Within

The Naim Uniti Nova is not merely an audio player—it’s a powerhouse. At its core lies a robust 2 x 80W into 8 Ohms power amplifier, capable of driving the most demanding speakers with absolute finesse.

This potent engine, combined with the device’s high-resolution music streaming capabilities, ensures that the Uniti Nova doesn’t just play music—it orchestrates a symphony.

Integration and Connectivity: Bridging Your Home

Equipped with multiple connectivity options, the Naim Uniti Nova serves as a hub for your home’s digital devices.

Whether it’s accommodating various analogue and digital inputs, a USB Type-A for iOS, or a full HDMI ARC input, the Uniti Nova has it covered. Its built-in Google Chromecast enables effortless streaming.

Additionally, for those looking to set up a multi-room system, the Uniti Nova’s compatibility ensures that it integrates smoothly with your existing home network.

User Interface: Simplifying Control

The Naim Uniti Nova’s bespoke iOS and Android app offer you a control interface that is both intuitive and comprehensive.

It allows you to manage your playlists, access an array of internet radio stations, and stream high-resolution music—all directly from your device.

Enjoy full control over your musical universe with the Naim Uniti Nova.

The Sonic Experience: Unravelling the Symphony

The Naim Uniti Nova’s sound quality is in a league of its own. With its precision sound engineering, the device presents every note in its full richness, creating an immersive soundscape that retains its sharpness even at high volumes.

The result? Whether it’s the delicate reverberation of a solo instrument or the rhythmic cadence of a full ensemble, the Uniti Nova ensures an auditory experience that is genuinely invigorating.

Verdict: The Final Word on the Naim Uniti Nova Review

Investing in the Naim Uniti Nova is a commitment to superior audio experiences. By merging intuitive technology with unparalleled sound quality and meticulous design, the Uniti Nova emerges as a benchmark in the world of high-fidelity sound systems.

This all-in-one audio system offers an incredible blend of high-resolution streaming capabilities, a wealth of connectivity options, and stunning sound quality.

The Naim Uniti Nova is more than an audio system—it’s a passport to a universe where every note is a masterpiece. Experience the music in its true essence with the Naim Uniti Nova, where every melody comes to life.

If you’d like to find out more about the Naim Uniti Nova, contact us here: Audience HiFi.

Kudos Audio’s Titan 606 loudspeakers have been awarded a 5-star rating by The Ear, a renowned platform for high-quality audio equipment reviews.

The Titan 606 is the largest model in the Kudos lineup that has been tested by The Ear, following positive impressions and 5-star ratings for the C20 and 10A from the Cardea range, as well as the entry-level Titan 505.

The Titan 606 loudspeakers come in their own boxes, each weighing 35kg, and are designed to be accommodated in a standard British sitting room. They feature a sleek design, and users are recommended to place them with no toe-in for optimal alignment. These speakers measure 95cm in height and come with a plinth, giving them an unobtrusive presence in the room.

The Titan 606 is an isobaric design with fixed boundary bass reflex loading, incorporating a pair of SEAS-Kudos 180mm mid/bass drivers and a SEAS-Kudos Crescendo K3 29mm fabric dome tweeter.

The cabinets are constructed from multi-thickness HDF to control panel resonance and are available in five different finishes. The crossover components in the Titan 606 are of high quality, featuring Mundorf’s Mresist Supreme resistors, air-core inductors, and Claritycap’s Copperconnect capacitors.

During the review process, the Titan 606s were connected to a Primaluna EVO400 integrated valve amplifier and various other source devices, such as a Linn Sondek LP12 turntable and a Yamaha CD-S3000 SACD/CD player.

The speakers delivered an outstanding sense of realism and a wide, deep, and tall soundstage, with precise midband and excellent bass handling. The higher frequencies showcased airiness and lightness, outshining many other designs.

When connected to a television, the Titan 606s excelled at reproducing spoken word and handling movie soundtracks with aplomb. They also boast a low-frequency response of 30Hz, making the addition of a subwoofer unnecessary. The Titan 606 loudspeakers proved to be versatile, working well with both the valve amplifier and a Lyngdorf TDAI3400 integrated amplifier/DAC, showcasing different audio presentations with equal grace.

In conclusion, the Kudos Titan 606 loudspeakers received high praise from The Ear for their stunning realism, versatile performance, and ability to draw the listener into the world of the musician or filmmaker.

While not inexpensive, with prices starting at £11,400, the Titan 606s are considered a long-term investment in musical pleasure and are highly recommended for discerning listeners seeking a high-quality audio experience.

Read the review from The Ear here.

Looking for a review of the Rega Elex MK4? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at this newly updated model and provide our expert analysis of its features and performance.

The Rega Elex MK4 is a recent addition to Rega’s line of integrated amplifiers, and it comes with some intriguing new features. The most significant of these is the inclusion of a pair of digital inputs, one optical and one coaxial, both capable of supporting PCM to 24-bit/192kHz thanks to a Wolfson DAC. This board is lifted in its entirety from the Elicit MK5, Rega’s larger model, giving the Elex a useful extra piece of functionality over the preceding model.

The Elex MK4 also boasts four RCA analogue line inputs and a moving-magnet phono stage, making it capable of handling most connection requirements without issue. It even includes a 6.35mm headphone output on the front.

Power-wise, the Elex MK4 is more closely related to the Brio than to Rega’s larger models, with a quoted power of 72W into 8ohm and 90W into 6ohm. While no figure is given for 4ohm operation, the company does warn that the amp will run hot into sub-6ohm loads (although it doesn’t run especially warm during testing and has a thermal cut-out built into the circuit if it does). The extra space that the Elex MK4 has over the Brio allows for it to be laid out in a more logical and optimal way. It also employs

the power supply arrangements of the Elicit MK5, with more galvanic isolation than before and a separate tap for the digital board.

Cosmetically, the Elex MK4 gains the same alterations we’ve seen on other recent Rega amplifiers, making the basic layout logical and easy to use. The only major difference from the Elicit MK5 is the volume control, which is simplified and has the level indicator on the knob itself rather than on the front panel.

In terms of sound quality, the Elex MK4 delivers exceptional tonal realism, making it feel like a great deal of amplifier for the asking price. Matched with a complete lack of mechanical sympathy, it manages to sound lively and energetic without tipping over into stridency. The phono stage is far more than a convenience feature, with a performance that is beyond pretty much anything else at the price.

Switching to the digital inputs, the built-in DAC can’t challenge rivals that cost more, but the results stay very listenable. Like on the Elicit MK5, Rega views these connections as support for dedicated source equipment and for tasks like decoding a TV signal.

Overall, the Rega Elex MK4 is a great amplifier and perhaps the most complete Rega integrated yet. It doesn’t feel like a lesser version of the Elicit MK5 for less money, but rather a great amplifier in its own right. While the Elicit MK5 is the better amp and can deal with speakers that the Elex MK4 tends to struggle with, in a great many situations the Elex MK4 feels like an absolute bargain. If you’re looking for a powerful, versatile amplifier that delivers exceptional sound quality, the Rega Elex MK4 is definitely worth considering.

Rega Elex MK4 Reviews from HiFi Choice.

“The Elex MK4 feels like an enormous amount of amplifier for the asking price” – Hi-Fi Choice.

“The build is absolutely superb and the metalwork feels significantly more expensive” – Hi-Fi Choice.

“The tonal realism is outstanding. Rega has long excelled at producing amplifiers that manage to sound lively and energetic without tipping over into stridency” – Hi-Fi Choice.

Find out more about the Rega Elex MK4.

Thank you to www.hifichoice.com for this review & article.

For more information about the Rega Elex MK4, click here to contact us.