Noise is the number 1 enemy of stereo reproduction. The SSZ and the LNBH pick up where Vera-Fi’s Snubway and Mainstream leave off, going to the next level of noise removal from the system chain. Think of noise as grey added to colors. The more that is removed, increase the vividness of colors. Together both units are still less expensive by a significant amount compared to typical power conditioners on the market. Congratulations to Mark Schifter and Viet Nguyen, for once again allowing the average audio fan the opportunity to experience what used to be limited to the wealthy audio crowd.
Bang for the Buck- Ranger L/S
The Ranger L/S was originally going to be an item under the Vera-Fi brand, but Mark Schifter quickly recognized that the name was ringing “ultra value”. So it now has its own brand, with a class D integrated amplifier that will hit the market very early in “26. These little dynamos raise the bar on how good a speaker’s construction, looks, and most importantly sound for just $149pr. Whether you are looking to start your journey, or add music to an office shop, or kids rec room, the Rangers are a first-rate bargain!
Design Excellence in Musicality- Galion TS P75 Preamplifier
At the end of the day, it’s all about the music, and Thomas Tan’s P75 epitomizes that capability by improving the “getting lost in the music” experience with every other piece of equipment in the audio chain. The four vacuum tubes bring life, warmth, texture, and tonality without being heavy or slow. The P75 is an excellent match for class D amplification leaving the speed and attack, while eliminating the hard sound. Thomas has created a preamp that frankly, made me forget any desire to reacquire a Conrad Johnson PV-7. Plus, an actual metal cased remote.
Design Excellence in Amplification- Starkrimson Ultra
The Ultra has been around for a few year, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that Leo’s design and implementation of GaNFet architecture is as good as anything on the market, and magnitudes better than ChiFi attempts. My only regret is not having it around long enough to hear it pared with Galion TS P75 preamplifier.
Design Excellence in Source- Vista Audio Phono 2 Pre II
If you want to enjoy vinyl on occasion, but don’t to change your preamp, integrated, or receiver. To one that has a built-in phono section, This $400 Serbian unit is a great choice. With an endless array of dip switches to adjust to your cartridge’s optimal settings, the Phono 2 mk II is ridiculously sneaky good.
Design Excellence in Speakers- Buchardt S400 mkII
Product of the Year- Eversolo Play
The Eversolo Play is a flag setter product, in that all others products in the “Lifestyle Amp/DAC/Streamer” that follow it will use the Play as the reference point. While not perfect, the Play does so many things well, starting with a truly non-fatiguing sound, enough power to drive most speakers, a high resolution screen, and an easy-to-navigate phone/tablet app. I bought the Play, that’s how much I think of it!
Honorable Mentions:
Carina X Integrated Amplifier- Definitely my favorite Peachtree Product of all time. Great class D sound from the Hypex N Core chips.
Galion TS Voyager Bookshelf Speakers- These transmission-line design speakers are perfect for a rec room. Plenty of bass, and a smooth sound make them a fine choice.
Vanguard Caldera 12- While this sub is a bit big for my 11x12ft room, it is an impressive performer for a mere $399. Plus, it is a sunning looking cabinet.
Topping Centaurus DAC- My favorite DAC of all the Topping, SMSL, and similar brands. Licensing the Holo R2R design tells plenty about the Centaurus performance.
WiiM Amp Ultra- If you don’t have the extra $170 for the Eversolo Play, the Amp Ultra is a worthy consolation choice.
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