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The well-known manufacturer of tube audio equipment, Audio Research, has introduced a new stereo power amplifier, the Audio Research D-80, in the Reference series, combining pentode operation, automatic bias adjustment and balanced signal transmission with an output power of 70 W per channel.

British company Leema Acoustics has expanded its Leema 100 electronics range with two integrated amplifiers – the Leema i85 and Leema iD85. The difference between the models is that the iD85 includes a DAC section and, accordingly, digital inputs. There are still only a few photos and technical details available, but the prices of the new models have already been announced.

The high-end audio manufacturer Audio Group Denmark has unveiled the reference-class Aavik M-880 monophonic power amplifier, designed and hand-assembled in Denmark. The amplifier was created to meet the demands of modern loudspeaker systems and occupies the top position in Aavik’s current power amplification lineup. The premiere took place at Audio Group Denmark’s headquarters in Aalborg. The amplifier was demonstrated with the one-million-euro Børresen M8 Gold Signature loudspeakers, which we covered earlier.

Australian loudspeaker manufacturer Richter Audio has introduced the new Series 7 Special Edition (S7SE) range, timed to coincide with the company’s upcoming 40th anniversary. In developing the Series 7 Special Edition, Richter Audio set out to solve a familiar challenge: to create loudspeakers owners would be just as proud to display in their interiors as they are of their sound quality. The result is a lineup that blends naturally into modern living spaces while preserving the power, precision, and emotional engagement the brand is known for.

The flagship Børresen M8 Gold Signature loudspeakers are the pinnacle of Michael Børresen's design. These speakers were developed using the cost-no-object principle to achieve the highest sound quality and eliminate all known issues of speaker-room interaction.

The well-known Slovak audio brand Canor Audio has introduced a new line of electronic components called Foundation, which includes the Virtus I4S integrated amplifier (which we have already covered) and the Verto D4S high-resolution external DAC. Both models feature fully discrete circuit design and a minimalist look with glass front panels plus convenient touch control. According to the manufacturer, they are aimed both at discerning newcomers and at “budget-minded” High End buyers.

Italian high-end audio manufacturer Riviera Audio Laboratories has presented a new generation of its flagship preamplifier and monoblock power amplifier models. The APL01SE preamplifier and AFM100SE monoblocks in Special Edition form are currently Riviera Audio’s top-tier models.

Here's something the streaming services would rather you didn't think about too carefully. Every single one of them can stream 24-bit FLAC. On paper, the technical specifications converge. Same codec. Same bit depth. Similar catalog sizes hovering around 100 million tracks. And yet they don't sound the same.

The Circle Labs has introduced the Circle Labs AS100 integrated amplifier. This solid-state model is positioned by its designers as a solution for the most precise and controlled sound: rather than expanding functionality, the focus is placed on sonic purity and neutrality, as well as stable power delivery.

Slovak audio equipment manufacturer Canor Audio has unveiled the stylish Foundation series of electronic components, with its first two representatives being the Virtus I4S integrated amplifier and the Verto D4S DAC. Both devices feature discrete circuitry and come with modern touch control and practical connection options for ambitious music lovers. The combination of glass, aluminum, and steel emphasizes the high ambitions of the new Foundation lineup while also providing a robust, resonance-free chassis construction.

Danish company Audio Group Denmark has introduced the Børresen BM3 (Bass Module 3) subwoofer, designed to work with the brand’s High End loudspeaker systems. The new model is engineered and handcrafted in Denmark; development was led by Michael Børresen and Flemming Erik Rasmussen.

Our ranking of Ultra High-End audio equipment continues – next up is a look at the most expensive and impressive preamplifiers. The models below are mass-produced; the list does not include long-discontinued units or one-off components. And believe us, each of these preamps is capable of surprising even seasoned audiophiles with their sound quality.

British audio brand ONIX (a sub-brand of China’s Shanling) has unveiled the third and final component of the ONIX Zenith audio system – the ONIX Zenith XMT20 network transport. The new model joins the previously introduced components in the lineup: the Zenith XST20 SACD/CD transport and the Zenith XDA20 DAC. The ONIX Zenith XMT20 streamer is based on an in-house developed Linux networking platform.

American tube-audio manufacturer Audio Research has introduced the new Audio Research I/70 integrated amplifier. Four 6550 tubes deliver 70 watts per channel, which the company believes is sufficient even for low-sensitivity loudspeakers. The Audio Research I/70 can be expanded by installing two optional modules: a DAC and a phono preamplifier.

American tube amplifier manufacturer VTL (Vacuum Tube Logic) has unveiled the VTL Lohengrin Reference Monoblock monoblock power amplifier. This is a very large and heavy unit capable of delivering 400 watts of output power – something you don’t often see in tube designs. The new model supports multiple operating modes for the output stage tubes and allows the sound to be fine-tuned.

Japanese company Accuphase has expanded its lineup of high-end digital sources by introducing the Accuphase DP-570S SACD/CD player. In addition to playing optical discs, the new model is equipped with digital inputs, including a USB-B port, allowing the built-in DAC to be used with other sources. There are also digital outputs, enabling the player’s transport to be used with external DACs.

To mark its 40th anniversary, British company Ruark has unveiled an exclusive version of the R810 wireless music system. The design of the new Ruark R810 MiE echoes the look of classic radios from decades past. The model is offered in two exclusive finishes – walnut with a pentagonal pattern and oak with a leaf pattern. Only 50 units will be released, and the rear panel of each system will feature an engraved plaque with a unique serial number confirming authenticity.

The flagship loudspeakers from the French company Revival Audio come in a vintage-inspired design, built in a three-way configuration, and are named Atalante Grande Réserve. Production is limited to just 300 pairs worldwide.

Ultra-high-end is sweeping the globe – and engineers, unencumbered by cost constraints, are creating true masterpieces. Our new top-tier list of the most impressive audio components is comprised of ultra-expensive power amplifiers – ones that will surprise even seasoned audiophiles. As usual, the ranking is based on current production models – you won't find any concept amplifiers, one-offs, or long-discontinued components here.

Sumiko company has released a new MC-cartridge for vinyl, the Sumiko Oriole. The model is housed in an open-faced, lightweight alloy body, while the motor and magnet system are mounted on a PEEK (polyetheretherketone) generator mounting plate, ensuring stable vibration transfer to the tonearm headshell for further dissipation.