DACs have been a part of the Marantz lineup for some time but have been almost forgotten until the introduction of the HD-DAC1. This model is a DAC and preamp in one, offering outputs with both fixed and variable signal levels so the user can choose what is best for them. It has great looks, high volume, and performance over a wide range of frequencies and a very convenient front panel that gives you easy and straightforward control of the unit.

The Marantz HD-DAC1 is an example of a device that represents a very high standard of workmanship and has a luxurious appearance. This high-quality desktop digital-analog amplifier impresses with its elegant design and rich sound. The music is very lively, full of energy and vivacity, with a lot of power. The sound is slightly warm with minimal coloration, giving the music noticeable weight with pleasing timbre and delivery.

The FiiO K3 (formerly known as the E30) is the successor to the Olympus 2 E10k, is probably the best-known product from the Asian brand. The new DAC with amplifier is based on the Q1 Mark II model but is intended for desktop use. The new, smaller DAC/AMP is powered by USB Type-C, can play DSD files, operates in two USB modes, powers balanced headphones, and can act as a digital or analog converter.

The company seldom releases such products, usually favoring DACs and portable players. However, they have always had a line of small desktop units: the K3, E10, and E10K. The new model combines a traditionally compact size with a range of inputs and outputs (including 2.5 balanced audio). Things look good so far, but will this affordable USB Type-C desktop amplifier deliver on its promise?

Whether we like it or not, we are entering a new era where many audiophiles prefer streaming music to traditional physical media. The Marantz PM7000N integrated amplifier is Marantz’s first stereo hi-fi product to support HEOS multi-room streaming integration, allowing users to enjoy music from multiple services without purchasing a dedicated audio streamer.​

With the dedicated HEOS app, users can stream audio directly from popular services such as TuneIn, Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, Amazon Prime Music, and TIDAL. For example, you may not have fully switched to streaming yet, or you have downloaded a large library of audio files. In that case, you can still use the NIC for UPnP audio, so you can stream files to your computer or NAS while the amp is still connected to your home network. The NIC also offers new features such as voice control with Josh.ai, Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, and Google Assistant.

Today’s hi-fi market offers a broad range of audio equipment for those who want to listen to music in its best quality. These include all-in-one systems with Internet access, wireless speakers, portable players with headphones, and computer digital converters with desktop speakers. However, many audio enthusiasts prefer to use older, stand-alone types of audio circuits, as they can create their own sound instead of buying a standard product.

To cater to such a market, Pioneer treats its users with some exciting audio products. Among them is the A-40AE integrated amplifier. While the code name might raise some hopes, it has not come the time to remake the iconic A400X model. The A-40AE is simply another integrated amplifier belonging to the growing two-channel line-up.

The origins of the FiiO “Q” series of portable DAC/AMPs began with the FiiO Q1 and continued with the Q1 Mark II; The flagship Q5 was released after Q1 Mark II, which was upgraded to the FiiO Q5s and Q5s TC (amplifier with Type-C USB). To bridge the gap between the entry-level amplifiers and the flagship models in the series, FiiO has introduced the FiiO Q3, a portable headphone amplifier reminiscent in design with the Q1 with a redesigned audio path and multiple headphone ports.