Audiophile

Many of us will serve up our favorite tunes using a smartphone, but may be left wanting for sound quality. That's where a portable headphone amp/DAC can help, and the latest model from Fiio promises to satisfy with desktop-level power and performance.

High-end turntable maker VPI Industries has announced its first Forever Series vinyl spinner. Instead of having to invest in a brand new system when something better inevitably comes along, the Model One's modular components can be upgraded.

Austrian hi-fi brand Pro-Ject is probably best known for making high-end gear affordable, with its excellent Debut line a good example. But the company does make ultra-high-end models too, and now there's a new flagship Signature to rule the roost.

Though many of us carry our digital music library or streaming player around with us in the shape of our smartphones, enjoying high quality audio can be problematic. Fiio's KA15 DAC not only levels up the sound but also looks retro cool while doing so.

The vast majority of today's consumed music is served up by streaming platforms, leaving traditional hi-fi setups struggling to stay relevant. Cambridge Audio has launched a multi-driver all-in-one music streamer that can also play nice with legacy gear.

Following an international debut at the High End audio show in Munich last year, UK hi-fi brand Chord Electronics has now announced global availability of its "class-leading" 125-watt Ultima Integrated amplifier.

When it comes to loudspeaker design, looks are much less important than how they sound. There are exceptions that please both eye and ear of course, and the rather pricey Jetstream system from Ferguson Hill is a gorgeous example of that thinking.

China's Fiio – which recently announced a mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC – has launched a new flagship desktop media streamer and headphone amp/DAC combo that's dominated by a slick smartphone-like user interface.

Generally speaking, the audio output of your mobile device or laptop probably isn't particularly good, which means that many music lovers will look to external gear to improve the groove. Periodic Audio has launched a tiny DAC designed to do just that.

High-end hi-fi brand Leema Acoustics has unveiled its first new audiophile offerings for more than a decade, with the Quantum range essentially repackaging the company's flagship Constellation series for more affordability – relatively speaking.

Linkplay Technology's audio brand Wiim has followed the "audiophile-grade" Pro Plus streaming box with its first streaming amplifier, allowing music lovers to cable the device direct to passive speakers, a home-theater setup or an old vinyl spinner.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the release of The Dark Side Of The Moon by Pink Floyd, Austrian hi-fi brand Pro-Ject has launched a special Artist Collection turntable – featuring a look designed to mimic the iconic album cover.