THE REVIEWS
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EXASOUND AUDIO s82 STREAMER - REVIEW
There are numerous digital options out there these days, from media players to streamers to digital transports, as well as CD players and CD transports, of course, which should not be forgotten in the event of a momentary internet glitch—just saying. And in truth, streamers and their like have come a very long way in terms of their technical abilities and sound quality. When matched to a Top of the Line (TOTL) DAC (Mola Mola, Bricasti Audio, etc.), the resulting sound can challenge all formats.
ROTEL DX-3 - REVIEW
If a “personal” system is what you seek and $1.5k is around your target budget, then I’d recommend you try to audition the embellishment–free DX-3. It combines excellent value with a crowd and audiophile–pleasing voice that keeps the listener engaged in their songs. Rotel’s mantra is designing “…no–frills audio components that emphasized musical accuracy, superb build quality, and affordability.” I can’t agree more!
MADISON LOUNGE EDITION STREAMER - REVIEW
The Lounge Edition version of the Madison I had embodies many upgraded components in the signal path, as well as upgraded power supply storage capacitance in the unit itself. To further distinguish the two models, the LE has a warm, pale buff finish. My review sample came with a small, external aluminum PSU.
CAMBRIDGE AUDIO MXN10+DACM200 - REVIEW
The DacMagic line stretches back to 1995, almost two decades ago, when most of what we take for granted in consumer digital audio these days, such as streamers and USB DACs, did not exist. Since then, the DacMagic’s price has doubled while still being affordable, and the skill set offered has remained almost the same.
BLUESOUND NODE ICON - REVIEW
Bluesound’s fanciest offering adds Compact Disc ripping, internal storage, along with a beefier internal computer capable of smooth multitasking. At $1149, Bluesound’s NODE ICON is situated comfortably in that affordable second tier, providing convenient, high fidelity in a visually seamless, stylish package.
GRIMM AUDIO MU2 STREAMING/DAC/PREAMP - REVIEW
The Grimm Audio MU2 as a complete streaming DAC is unparalleled in its ability to render one’s music in a way that is technically superb, while bringing unquestioned musicality that rivals some of the best and most expensive analog rigs.
BAETIS AUDIO REFERENCE 4 MINGO STREAMER - REVIEW
The Baetis Audio Reference 4 Mingo demonstrated the ability to be more “alive,” more real, and more natural than any digital component should have a right to be. Furthermore, it is the only streamer to have relegated to obscurity the best of the best CD players, which a short time ago I did not believe possible.