Signing off
My dad was a man with many talents, but playing, listening and recording music was one of those that he was particularly passionate about. I became very aware of this passion when I, a youth of probably no more than […]
Amplifiers
REVIEW: AVM Inspiration CS 2.2 4T: Audiophile all-in-one
AVM is a new arrival on the SA audio scene, but the German marque’s provenance is widely acknowledged in Europe, where its combination of fine workmanship, ease of use and sonic capability has gained it many friends. The Inspiration CS […]
REVIEW: Anthem STR Integrated – Is one box better than two?
The Anthem STR line-up consists of a pre-amp, a power amp – and now, also an integrated amp. The pre/power impressed when on test a year or so ago. Can the one-box integrated deliver similar sonics in a more convenient […]
Quick review: RME Audio ADI-2 DAC/headphone amp – Let’s get serious
If you recognise the RME brand, you’re probably an audio professional. The German company specialises in digital audio solutions, primarily targeting the pro audio industry. However, there is a fringe of home audio enthusiasts that has discovered and started using […]
Yamaha RX-A3080 – Full-house flagship
Trying to keep up with the latest formats, codecs and tech on the AV receiver front seems nigh impossible, thanks to an ongoing quest for performance enhancement. Yamaha’s latest flag bearer links loads of muscle to a long list of […]
Primare i15 Prisma – This junior sounds quite senior!
Primare has been revamping its entire range of specialist audio components, and the i15 Prisma is the Scandivian firm’s all-new integrated amplifier. But don’t be fooled by the amp’s compact dimensions … By Deon Schoeman The Swedes know all […]
Quick review: Audio Research Reference 160M monoblocks
You don’t have to actually listen to the new Audio Research Reference 160M monoblocks to fall in love with them. Audaciously different by the high-end marque’s usually conservative styling standards, they radiate a certain desirability that will have even solid […]
Audio Analogue Puccini Anniversary: Making music with finesse
There’s a certain elegance to a simple, functional design that focuses on performance rather than frippery. The original Audio Analogue Puccini integrated amplifier was a case in point – and its successor continues that tradition, while adding further sonic urge […]
Devialet Expert 220 Pro: The sound of elegance
High-end audio and designer aesthetics don’t necessarily go hand in hand. But French marque Devialet has managed to combine sculptural design with top-class sonics, with some clever electronics added for good measure By Deon Schoeman It’s been a good six […]
Mark Levinson No.526 pre-amplifier: A musical masterclass
With its full house of control facilities, a configurable phono stage and an on-board D/A converter, the Mark Levinson No.26 delivers a comprehensive pre-amplifier solution. But its real talents lie in its treatment of the music … By Deon Schoeman […]