WHAT HI-FI -NOVEMBER 2022

PHONO STAGES

Burmester “There is plenty of punch and attack,
but it is wrapped in the warm embrace
100 Phono of Burmester’s trademark refinement”

Phono stage ₨17,60,000

T here are plenty of choices at SOUND which can even things out to an accuracy Casework is
‘money no object’ levels, but few of 0.2dB and can correct differences of up rigid, with crisp
can match Burmester’s phono BUILD to 6dB between left and right channels. edges and
stage with its modular nature, feature list beautifully
or sumptuous build. FEATURES But Burmester hasn’t stopped there. If finished panels
The base version of this unit can you have specified the digital module, you
support a single turntable (with either a FOR can choose sampling rates of 48, 96 or around the voice and instruments – a lack
moving magnet or moving coil module) • Fluid, dynamic and 192kHz to record in. This lets you better of clutter and the freedom to breathe gives
and pass the amplified signal through balance performance with file-size. every sound free rein to ebb and flow.
single-ended or balanced XLR outputs. For informative sound
an optional extra outlay, the 100 can be • Impressive sonic IMMACULATELY CRAFTED We appreciate the low noise-floor too.
equipped with a second phono module This is a really quiet phono stage that adds
and an analogue-to-digital converter to scale and stability The company’s products are invariably very little hiss to the sound, even on higher
add in to the mix, which lets you digitise • Modular nature expensive but, in our experience, always gain settings. This characteristic points to
and archive your vinyl. • Superb build have the construction (and generally the well-designed and isolated circuits and aids
The 100’s front panel is pretty busy, but performance) to justify the high cost. the way the 100 reproduces dynamics,
the signal level meter grabs our attention. AGAINST particularly at low signal levels. Things are
This can be selected to show the output of • Lack of choice The 100 Phono simply reinforces our surefooted rhythmically, with plenty of
each channel individually or mixed positive impression. Its casework is rigid punch and attack, but it is wrapped in the
together. It’s not totally accurate – there’s in equalisation and immaculately crafted, with crisp edges warm embrace of Burmester’s trademark
the inertia of the pointer and mechanism curves may be an and beautifully finished panels. refinement. There’s no hint of unwarranted
to consider – but it is handy to optimise issue for some harshness in the sound, yet little of the
performance as well as set the recording The quality extends to the inside. The music’s excitement is lost. It’s a neat balance
level for the digital recordings (if you have VERDICT circuits are neatly arranged, with the 100 few rival manufacturers manage.
the A/D module fitted). Go too high with The 100 Phono is Phono’s modular nature obvious.
the gain setting and the distortion is one of the finest For those with deep enough wallets and
obvious. If the level is too low, noise can phono stages After letting the Burmester settle over a a suitably talented partnering system,
become an issue and dynamic range money can buy. It’s few days we start with Nick Cave & The there are few downsides here. If you have
suffers. Elsewhere there are more (rather an understated but Bad Seeds’ The Boatman’s Call. We have lots of very old records, the lack of choice
lovely) toggle switches for most of the brilliant performer used this record a lot in our reviews, but in equalisation curves may be an issue, but
settings. There’s pretty much every feature through the 100 Phono we hear fresh for everyone else it won’t matter. This is a
we can reasonably ask for here, including inflections in Cave’s characteristically beautifully made and engineered product
load impedance, a dedicated gain level for coarse but emotion-packed vocals, and that sounds lovely.
each input (37-52dB for moving magnets layers of extra texture on the backing
and 57-72dB for moving coils), a subsonic instrumentation. There is so much space
filter (to take out low-end rumble) and
switchable output level (variable or fixed).
The ability to deliver variable output
means that the 100 can be connected
directly into a power amplifier and bypass
the need for a dedicated preamp in a purist
vinyl-only set-up. This shorter
signal path also promises
greater transparency.
A rather novel feature
ensures the cartridge’s
channels are balanced,

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 51

T E M P TAT I O N S

TURNTABLES

Vertere

DG-1 Dynamic
Groove

Turntable ₨4,65,000

his deck/arm package offers a There are plenty It’s long-term lubricated too, so the deck information and organise it into a cohesive
of interesting doesn’t need the regular maintenance that and musical whole. It is excellent
T fair dose of the performance of engineering most conventional rivals require. rhythmically, and has our feet tapping with
Vertere’s top-end turntables but details in the DG-1 ease. We haven’t come across a rival that
at a far more approachable outlay. It’s The complete platter, main bearing and communicates the changing momentum
designed to be easy to use, with the option SOUND arm combination sits on its own separate of a piece of music so explicitly.
of a fitted cartridge. The Vertere Magneto sub-plinth and is isolated from the rest of
moving-magnet cartridge ( bought BUILD the turntable structure by strategically With Orff’s Carmina Burana, the Vertere
separately) is more than capable of placed and precisely tuned silicon rubber. shows off its insightful midrange
justifying the extra cost it adds to the base FEATURES performance, fine stereo imaging and
price. But think of it as something to get you The motor is derived from the one used impressive dynamic expression. Voices
going; ultimately, the DG-1’s abilities FOR in Vertere’s more upmarket decks and is a come through with clarity and are solidly
demand something better. • Excellent dynamic 24v pole synchronous design. It comes planted in an expansive and nicely layered
You will find plenty of interesting with an individually optimised partnering soundstage. The presentation stays
engineering details here. It’s the arm that expression power supply to minimise noise and composed and stable, even when the piece
really grabs our attention. Rather than using • Impressive vibration. The motor body is designed to becomes frantic, the deck refusing to
a conventional cylindrical arm tube, which move to absorb belt tension effects, so sound stressed. Yet, given the music’s
gives rigidity but is prone to resonances, the rhythmic abilities helping to improve speed stability. dramatic nature, the DG-1 sounds
DG-1’s arm is made of a flat, triple-layered, • Clever engineering admirably explosive when required.
aluminium alloy/polymer sandwich. This ENERGY AND DRIVE
provides a stable, properly damped home and build We play a range of records, from Michael
for the cartridge. Its bearings are unusual AGAINST The DG-1 is a terrific-sounding deck. It has Jackson’s Bad to Miles Davis’ Kind Of Blue
too, discarding traditional metal designs for • Cartridge can be a bold, outgoing sound that brims with and Nirvana’s Nevermind, and the DG-1
twisted nylon threads – one for movement energy and drive. We listen to Four Tet’s never sounds out of place. It delivers a full
in the horizontal plane and two for the bettered There Is Love In You and are bowled over dose of musical thrills without falling short
vertical axis. Even the wiring is VERDICT by the punch and power. Bass notes hit on hi-fi specifics, such as stereo imaging,
unconventional, using a gold-plated Vertere’s DG-1 is a hard and fast, but in an impressively resolution or tonal accuracy.
flexible PCB rather than traditional cables. formidable controlled way. There’s little in terms of
The distinctive plinth echoes the arm’s combination of overhang and at no point do we feel that The Vertere DG-1 is up against some
sandwich construction, and is three layers clever engineering, the lows are dominating unnecessarily. mighty competition, but it can go into
of acrylic reinforced with a steel chassis to fine build and any such comparisons with confidence.
give a rigid yet well-damped structure. The excellent sound The DG-1 is a precise and highly Highly recommended.
aluminium platter has a bonded PETG (a resolving product, able to dig up plenty of
thermoplastic polymer) mat and a cork-
neoprene-nitrile disc on the underside to “The presentation stays composed and
give a good combination of rigidity and stable, even when the piece becomes
damping. It is driven via a bespoke frantic, refusing to sound stressed”
round-section silicone rubber belt.
This platter rests on a quality main
bearing consisting of a polished stainless
steel spindle sitting on a high-precision
tungsten carbide ball in a brass bearing
housing. The result is an impressively
smooth operation and no detectable play.

52 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

T U R N TA B L E S

SME “This isn’t a deck that stomps its
character all over the music. It prefers
Model 6 to put the recording in the spotlight”

Turntable ₨POR SOUND moving coil, a capable, balanced performer The Model 6 produces a tidy, well-
that works well in this context. proportioned sound that lacks the outright
S ME makes world-class BUILD authority of its pricier siblings, but still
turntables and arms, the brand’s CONTROL AND INSIGHT does well for the price. Its stereo imaging is
reputation built on excellence. FEATURES nicely layered and focused, making it easy
High-end record players are all about Despite the differences in design and to pinpoint the position of instruments
precision manufacturing and, when you FOR material technology, the Model 6 sounds and sounds. Stability, in terms of both
are working to the highest standard, that’s • Understated, every inch an SME record player. Its sound speed and sound staging, is excellent. This
never going to be cheap. has the unerring composure we have is a surefooted deck.
To attempt to make the Model 6 more transparent sound noticed in the company’s other decks, that
‘affordable’, SME has chosen is to start with • Superb precision ability to resolve lots of detail and present We switch to Catch A Fire by Bob Marley
a clean sheet but keep the engineering it in an impeccably organised way. and the Wailers and the SME Model 6
quality as high as ever. In fact, the and resolution proves suitably capable, offering an
company claims the Model 6 is built to • Excellent build Give this player something demanding attractive blend of precision, stability and
exactly the same impressive engineering such as Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and it composure that many will like.
standards as any of its pricier decks. AGAINST delivers an authoritative performance
It still looks every inch an SME. It is • Tough competition brimming with control and insight. It is There’s plenty of agility here and an
sized to resemble the classic Model 20, but easy to track individual instrumental appealingly understated manner. This isn’t
the design shows that the company isn’t VERDICT strands due to the deck’s highly a deck that stomps its character all over the
afraid to move away from tradition. Until SME’s Model 6 regimented approach to replay and its music. This SME, like others we have
this point, all of its turntables have used serves up a full dose refusal to blur low-level information. The heard, prefers to put the recording in the
thick slabs of machined aluminium for of the brand’s sonic music’s fierce dynamic shifts are handled spotlight. It’s this transparency that pushes
their plinths. That gives impressive rigidity, DNA at a more with calm and rendered with confidence. the Model 6 into the class-leading group at
but it’s also hugely expensive – so the approachable this level. We love its taut, wonderfully
engineers’ solution is a plinth made of a price precise bass performance and the way it
high-density resin material. This is sounds so consistent throughout the
CNC-machined and is claimed to have frequency range. Voices come through
excellent rigidity and damping properties with impressive clarity, letting Marley’s
combined with high mass. distinctive, heartfelt vocals stir the soul.
The main bearing and arm assembly are
protected from external energy by a If you have always wanted one of the
vibration-absorbing silicone-rubber from company’s turntables but could never
the aerospace industry. It is used inside the quite stretch to buying one, go for this.
plinth and on the chassis feet. Through the use of clever engineering,
The Model 6 doesn’t come with a careful development and innovative
cartridge, but our review sample is materials SME has produced a superbly
supplied with an Ortofon Cadenza Black made, thoroughly capable record player
that truly lives up to the brand’s heritage.

Speed control and
the power supply

are housed in a
separate box

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 53

T E M P TAT I O N S

VPI

Prime 21+

Turntable ₨7,00,000

T he Prime 21+ aims to build on Isolating design phono stage. Adjusting input loading to even, open and convincing. This is an
the solid foundation laid by of the feet should the recommended 100 ohms and setting impressively balanced performer that
2015’s Prime turntable with well- minimise external the cartridge’s tracking weight to 1.9g, it all handles the balance between bite, body
considered changes aimed at improving vibrations works well. and refinement well. Stereo imaging is
performance, ease of use and cosmetics. good too, with an open and expansive
VPI’s changes have resulted in a smarter SOUND THRILLING POWER soundstage layered with carefully placed
but more conventional deck. The tonearm instruments and voices. Importantly,
is a 27cm, 3D-printed gimbal-bearing FEATURES This is an immensely confident record things don’t become jumbled when the
design that feels less fussy in use than its player. While sounding big and bold, its music erupts – those familiar with
uni-pivot predecessor. It’s easy to set up BUILD presentation is pleasingly underpinned Carmina Burana will know that there’s no
and the bearings feel smooth, though we with heaps of subtlety when the music shortage of dynamic excesses and dense
can detect a small amount of play in its FOR demands. We start with Orff’s Carmina instrumentation in this piece.
fore/aft movement. The 43mm-thick curvy • Bold and Burana and are impressed with the VPI’s
plinth is made up of a 3mm aluminium top sonic scale and authority. It’s rare to find a On Bob Marley’s Kinky Reggae, the bass
plate on an MDF base – the metal is controlled deck at this level that sounds so composed is firm and deep, anchoring the rest of the
intended to add rigidity and damping to presentation and controlled. Detail (there’s plenty of it) presentation impressively. Meanwhile,
the structure. • Dynamic is organised in a musically cohesive way. Marley’s voice comes through with clarity
The detached AC motor unit has also expression and and passion and is nicely separated from
been tweaked. It still has the same insight We love how this record player renders the instrumental backdrop.
substantial high-mass aluminium • Solid build large-scale dynamic shifts and backs them
casework to control resonances, but the AGAINST up with a thrilling sense of power. There’s The 21+’s punch, sense of power and
internal control circuit has been updated • Tough competition plenty of punch when the music demands, degree of insight put it among the class
to help speed stability. The speed change at this level but also an ability to track low-level leaders. This is a hugely capable package
from 33⅓ to 45rpm is done manually by • Manual speed instrumental strands, even when the with a wide range of sonic talents that
moving the belt from one step on the change music becomes complex. work across musical genres. If you’re
motor pulley to the next. Another obvious VERDICT looking for a record-playing package at this
generational change is to the Prime’s feet, The Prime 21+ builds Tonally, there’s little to complain about level, this one has to be considered.
which are now the same isolating designs on its impressive here either. The Prime 21+ package sounds
used on the ₨20 lakh+ VPI HW40 deck. predecessor to
These should make this deck less become one of the “We love how this record player renders
susceptible to external vibrations. class leaders at large-scale dynamic shifts and backs
This deck isn’t a particularly large unit this level them with a thrilling sense of power”
by high-end standards. Measuring 52cm
wide and 40cm deep, it should fit on the
top shelf of most supports. Despite VPI’s
attempts to design in isolation, it still pays
to use a rigid, low-resonance platform for
the best results.
The Prime 21+ is designed to be easy to
set up, and not only does the company
provide a manual on a USB stick, it also
includes a handy video. We are pleased to
find that VPI supplies an electronic stylus
scale in the box to help set the tracking
force accurately, as well as a nifty
alignment gauge for getting the cartridge
in exactly the right position. The Shyla
moving coil works without issue into our
usual Cyrus Phono Signature/PSX-R2

54 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

T U R N TA B L E S

Mark “With suitable recordings, this deck
Levinson is a convincing performer, delivering
a pleasing level of clarity”
No.5105/Ortofon
Quintet Black S MC quite a totally convincing
all-rounder. For that, the
Turntable ₨POR deck’s presentation needs a
touch more enthusiasm and
A s the more ‘affordable’ of Mark With its thick solid We play Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony rhythmic coherence.
Levinson’s turntables, the aluminium plinth, and are impressed with the boldness of
No.5105 isn’t simply a stripped- the deck is a the presentation. The 5105 sounds That much is obvious when
down version of its pricier older brother, hefty 34kg muscular, delivering the dynamic swings we play Bob Marley’s Stir It Up.
the No.515. It’s an all-new design, intended of the music with authority. There’s a good Here, the No.5105 gives the song
to be an ideal analogue source for the SOUND sense of scale, and an ability to render a a less playful feel and loses
company’s 5000 series of components. stable yet layered stereo image. some of the music’s easygoing
The basic engineering, build and finish BUILD Instruments are nicely focused and their charm. Individual notes are well
really is lovely. The plinth is a 50mm-thick positioning doesn’t start to blur as the enough defined, but they don’t
machined block of aluminium that feels FEATURES music gets more demanding. quite come together to
immensely solid. The front panel is communicate the song’s lilting
another chunk of aluminium, in this case FOR DISTINCT PREFERENCES rhythm or the allure of Marley’s
around 25mm thick, bead blasted and • Terrific build distinctive vocals. Basslines in
black anodized. There’s a small tinted glass This Mark Levinson sounds big-boned and particular lack a degree of
window embedded in it, echoing the and finish composed no matter what we throw at it. articulation and expression,
styling of other 5000 series components, • Simple to set up There is good insight when we play Orff’s leaving it a little leaden overall.
and this is home to the speed and standby Carmina Burana, the turntable able to We listen to a range of music, from Miles
controls. The deck sits on three adjustable and use communicate its over-the-top drama. Davis’s Kind Of Blue and Holst’s The Planets
feet, and a spirit level is built into the top of • Precise and Singers come through with a convincing to Four Tet’s There Is Love In You, and find
the plinth for levelling it all. presence and there is no issue in revealing the No.5105 has distinct preferences. It
The aluminium platter is a weighty 6kg. confident subtle instrumental or vocal textures. excels when the music demands a large-
On the underside, it’s loaded with damping presentation scale and powerful presentation. There is
material to control resonances, and it is The No.5105 is an analytical performer plenty of attack here and it’s matched to a
topped by a thin carbon fibre-look polymer AGAINST in the ballpark of class-leaders such as the pleasing degree of control and composure.
mat. The platter is attached to a diamond- • Values SME Model 6 and VPI Prime 21+ when it With suitable recordings, this deck is a
coated, stainless steel spindle, claimed to comes to information retrieval, but isn’t convincing performer delivering a pleasing
be much harder and so prone to lower control over level of clarity. But ask the deck to have a
friction than a conventional stainless steel entertainment bit of fun and it doesn’t quite have the
shaft. It’s all topped off by a heavy record expressiveness and dexterity to do so. It
clamp that is shaped to remind us of the VERDICT even makes the Four Tet album sound a
volume controls on the company’s amps. The Mark Levinson bit lifeless, which it certainly isn’t.
The aluminium clamp has a brass insert to No.5105 is The No.5105 is thoughtfully made and a
add more mass. We listen with and without beautifully built and pleasure to use, and certainly capable in the
the clamp in place, and prefer the extra lovely to use, with a sound department. With the right music, it
sonic solidity and focus using it imparts. sound that’s clear delivers a strong performance. But it can’t
The arm is another classy piece of and insightful albeit quite hit the highs in the way this
engineering, a 25cm design with a carbon lacking a little verve company’s electronics routinely manage.
fibre arm tube fused to a solid aluminium
headshell. If you opt for the Ortofon
Quintet Black S MC cartridge, as we have,
it will be factory-fitted right down to the
tracking force being set.
Mark Levinson has set out to deliver a
highly polished and easy-to-use, premium
record-playing package, and that is exactly
what it has done.

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 55

T E M P TAT I O N S

TELEVISIONS

LG

OLED65G2

TV ₨3,99,990

T he big story with the New heat sink sense of depth/three-dimensional space. This set isn’t quite a TV audio A-lister,
OLED65G2 is the addition of a means this OLED The benefits of the extra brightness are but it does show a positive direction of
new heat sink layer to one of can go far brighter not visible only from time to time, either; travel for LG’s TV sound. Particularly
LG’s high-brightness Evo OLED panels. than previous sets you can feel them in almost every frame pleasing is how much more dynamic the
Being able to dissipate more heat means of an HDR source, be it a naturalistically sound appears when running in Dolby
the TV can be run as much as 15 per cent PICTURE shot daylight interior or a dramatically lit Atmos mode.
more brightly than last year’s G1 (and neon-drenched night-time exterior.
this year’s C2 model, which doesn’t get SOUND The OLED65G2 is easily LG’s best
the heat sink) without increasing its LG has also improved both its motion OLED TV yet. Its sound is a solid
susceptibility to screen burn. FEATURES performance and upscaling of sub-4K improvement over LG’s 2021 built-in
An increase of that magnitude would sources for 2022, which don’t just make audio, while the extra brightness it
see the OLED65G2 pushing against the FOR the OLED65G2 a fantastic performer achieves thanks to its new heat sink and
1000 nits figure often considered a key • LG’s brightest with TV shows and movies. They also new processor delivers nothing but
value when it comes to delivering high make it next-gen brilliant with the latest positives, enriching everything from
dynamic range (HDR) with conviction. OLED pictures yet gaming graphics. basic HD SDR to sparkling 4K HDR and
The step-down C2 gets the same Alpha • Typically deep the finest graphical wares of the latest
9 Gen 5 LG processing system that the While the OLED65G2 typically gaming consoles and PCs. All without
OLED65G2 gets; the only real difference blacks, rich colours handles its extra brightness pretty anything looking forced or like
in picture terms between the two OLEDs • Improved Gallery immaculately, every now and then some ‘brightness for brightness’s sake’.
is that heat sink. Not that the Alpha 9 really extreme bright colours can flare
processor is interested only in improving design out a fraction. But these moments are so
picture quality. It also introduces a new rare and tend to be limited to such small
audio feature whereby the TV can upmix AGAINST areas of the picture that you likely won’t
limited-channel sources to 7.1.2 channels • Substantially notice them.
– compared with the 5.1.2 channels
possible with 2021’s top-end LG models. pricier than the C2 “The benefits of the extra brightness are
We have now had the chance to see an • Not as bright as not visible only from time to time; you
OLED65G2 running against a C2; suffice can feel them in almost every frame”
to say, the G2 is the better performer. premium LCD TVs
The OLED65G2’s additional heat sink • No stand in box
really does lead to a noticeable and
welcome brightness boost over the C2 VERDICT
– despite the C2 delivering a palpable The G2 is truly a
enhancement over 2021’s C1. And the G2 thing of beauty:
delivers its brightness enhancements while clearly
without washing out the colours. targeted at the
The very brightest ‘peaks’ of an HDR no-expense-spared
image have more purity, brightness and crowd, it will tempt
‘gleam’ than they do on the C2. Also, the many to step up to
overall brightness of light, full-screen it from the C2,
HDR content is increased, making such despite the
pictures look more realistic and ‘HDR’. high price
Both of these brightness advantages
make images look richer and more
expressive, which in turn enhances their

56 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

TELEVISIONS

Philips “The OLED986 delivers pure blacks,
but it also deftly handles near-black
65OLED986 shades and provides oodles of insight”

TV ₨NA

I t goes without saying that this As well as superb flashier settings, but do so and you will three mid/bass drivers and three
is a real statement piece, with a sound for a TV, discover an image that’s still brighter and tweeters, all facing forwards. The result
price tag to match, but if you there is also punchier than that of most rivals but is a far more authentic and natural sound
want and can afford the best, this is Philips’s excellent that also maintains authenticity and than you get from most soundbars.
(currently) it. Ambilight feature nuance. The Philips is a confident
The obvious difference between the upscaler, too, even when dealing with While we would never choose to listen
65OLED986 and an average TV is that it PICTURE standard-def content. to music through any other TV, it’s a
is floor-standing, coming in at 134cm tall. pleasure via the OLED986. Playing
The portion of stand below the Bowers SOUND Philips and B&W see the OLED986 as SBTRKT’s Trials Of The Past, we are
and Wilkins speaker bar can be removed not just a TV, but a complete system that immediately impressed by the
so that the rest can be wall-mounted, FEATURES can also take the place of a hi-fi. To that cleanliness and rhythm of the delivery.
but the screen and speaker system are end, its speaker system has a relatively The track requires real pace and
symbiotic – neither will work without FOR straightforward configuration compared precision, and the OLED986 has both.
the other. • Fantastically sharp with some soundbars. There aren’t a load There’s loads of detail on offer, too, and a
The left and right channels in the of drivers facing all directions here – just dynamic flexibility that no other TV and
speaker bar feature their own tweeters, and punchy very few soundbars can match.
but the OLED986 also features a • Excellent sound
‘tweeter-on-top’ that sits between the • Still supremely What’s more, the soundbar’s
speaker bar and screen where it should authenticity and naturalism are just as
be less susceptible to diffraction effects. stylish impressive when dealing with movie
Make the effort to set the TV up soundtracks. Rivals that fire sound in all
properly and you will be rewarded with a AGAINST directions can create a more enveloping
picture that’s genuinely exceptional. Test • Picture requires sound, but none provides a truer or more
favourite Blade Runner 2049 has never balanced rendition of source material.
looked better. As K enters Sapper’s farm, too many tweaks
the subtlety of the 986’s shading means • Half-resolution We wouldn’t go as far as to say you
the dirt and grime on the outside of the should bin your hi-fi gear; building a
glass – which many TVs miss altogether 4K/120Hz system with dedicated kit will always get
– is much more visible. • Slight motion you a better performance, and for less
Shadow detail is superb, too. The money. But if you are determined to
OLED986 is of course capable of processing issues have a single, clean and stylish system
delivering pure blacks, but it also deftly for all of your TV, movie and music
handles near-black shades and provides VERDICT needs, there’s currently nothing better.
oodles of insight. Just as Philips In both picture and
promised, the OLED986 is sharper and sound terms, there Image: Netflix, The Lincoln Lawyer
more detailed than its predecessor the is currently no
OLED806, and is excellent with colours. better TV than the
The only part of the OLED986’s 4K Philips OLED986
HDR performance that’s anything less
than exemplary is its motion, which
exhibits more blur and judder when the
motion processing is set to Off, Pure
Cinema or Movie than the OLED806 in
the same mode.
Though we wish you could, you can’t
get away with watching only HDR
content, so it’s good news that the
OLED986 is also a very capable handler
of SDR material. You will once again
need to tone down some of the set’s

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 57



OFFTHESHELFREFERENCE SYSTEM

Every product that comes in to the What Hi-Fi (India) listening room is either hooked up or
compared to our reference system. Only the best, benchmark-quality gear has been selected
for this system. Wired for both 2.0 stereo and a 7.2.2 Dolby Atmos configuration, it serves as an

indispensable tool to get insight into every connected piece of equipment.

Milan Sales
Screen

REL S5
Subwoofer

Arcam Focal
AVR30 Kanta
No.3

Roon PMC
Nucleus Twenty5

AVM V30 / Series
M30 speakers

Lindemann
Limetree
Bridge

AudioQuest
cables

Chord
Hugo TT2/
M-Scaler

SVS
PB 2000

Also part of the system: Sony XR-A80K 77in OLED TV, Apple TV 4K, Ultracoustics sound panels, PMC DB-1 and Wafer surround speakers

OFF THE SHELF

Chord Hugo TT2 + M Scaler | DAC + Upscaler | ₨3,69,990 + ₨3,29,990

Digital dreams come true

FOR Clarity and resolution, timbral AGAINST User interface via the front
accuray, soundstage depth, naturalness panel, display too small

Vinyl record sales are soaring to “The M Scaler also lets you (Hi-Res Lossless) while an optical input
new heights all over again and it’s bypass the upsampling and allowed us to access our Roon Nucleus
2022! The counterpoint to the analog revert to the original signal“ library via a Limetree Bridge. Rob Watts’
argument has always been easier to WTA (Watts Transient Alignment) filters
define but harder to accept by purists. or Brian Johnson on a bad day. This is make their presence felt immediately
Digital has always had a troubled possible with the help of an extremely by making Pana-Vision by Smile sound
childhood and while it has continued powerful FPGA that has 740 DSP cores ethereal and simply “there”, with no
to persevere through its adolescence, and is capable of taking more samples indication of the amplifiers, speakers
it’s only now, almost 40 years after than any previous upscaler before it. or the enormous number crunching
the advent of the compact disc that happening inside the porthole. The
engineers are figuring out how to For our test, the duo of Hugo TT2 articulation and textures in the sounds
unlock its true potential. Amongst and the M Scaler were used as a system is unbelievably true to the recording and
the handful of apex ombudsmen, Rob rather than individually. To connect the even those who aren’t predisposed to
Watts of Chord Electronics has worked two, dual-coaxial via BNC connectors critical listening will make a mental note.
tirelessly to address nagging issues that were used so the M Scaler was poised
plague digital playback. Chord DACs to send a max capacity 768kHz signal Moving up and down our library,
have attained an enviable reputation to the Hugo TT2. Of course, you could switching between Dominique Fils-
in the last decade and with each new use the M Scaler with another brand of Aime to Hedegaard’s electronic genius,
iteration or model, Watts-designed DAC too, but you won’t be exploiting the one thing that was instantly audible
FPGA and the associated WTA filters its full potential. The Hugo TT2 is on every track was the rock solid focus.
have become more sophisticated with accomplished in its own right too. As a Instruments just sounded locked in
longer “tap lengths”. This required headphone amplifier and as a high- their spaces, painting the perfect picture
many years of perfecting the code quality DAC no less. With a change of without any smear, in this context
and if you’re interested in how it all architecture, it now gets a power bank that would be time. The relationship
came together, you need to have a with six super capacitors that are ready between timing and transient is
degree in advanced computer science to launch an attack on the most dynamic something that Chord takes very
or digital electronics (or both) to be of sections by the LSO, making sure it seriously and the M Scaler’s greatest
able to fully grasp what Rob Watts has doesn’t lack any of the intended emotion achievement is its ability to just make
achieved. Mathematically speaking. or fervour. The quirky casework of both every familiar recording a little bit more
Fortunately for mortal audiophiles like the Chord products is highlighted by the “correct”. The M Scaler also lets you
us, there are subjective differences use of coloured LED spheres to denote bypass the upsampling and revert to the
too and that’s what we’re getting at. the input, incoming sampling frequency original signal or anywhere in between
and upsample rate so if you’re colour too, giving you the option to decide.
At more than half the standard blind, you might have to be close to And it won’t take long if you have a good
component width, with quirky the tiny display that shows the basic system to realise the improvements
casework, this duo is clearly made to info in numbers and abbreviations. The the Chord DAC and scaler make to your
be displayed out on open racks. Side by user interface on the Hugo TT2 isn’t music. For most, the Hugo TT2 is a
side, they’re wider than the typical AV the most intuitive, especially if you’re fantastic upgrade in itself, but once you
component, but you will appreciate the just using it like a DAC like we did for hear it with the M Scaler, you may not
detailing in the circuit board through this test. It may look simple enough be able to tell why you need it, but you
the illuminated port hole. Rob Watts since there are only three buttons on won’t mind breaking the bank for it!
has worked relentlessly to validate his the front panel, but they correspond
theory of long filter tap lengths and the to contextual info displayed in the Says
M Scaler goes way beyond anything tiny (and angled) display window and
that previous Chord DACs have been if you get the wrong sequence with VERDICT The best upgrade your digital
capable of, not even the flagship Dave. your amp and speakers plugged in, music library will ever get!
So in essence, the Hugo TT2 partnered you could be in for a nasty surprise.
with the M Scaler could be a Dave TECH SPECS
beater and that means, probably one But once you have the Chord duo in Digital Connectivity USB-B Audio, BNC x 2,
of the best DAC systems in the world. your system, it’ll be hard to part with Dual BNC (with M Scaler), Optical x 2, Bluetooth
Boasting of a filter with over a million it. Despite all their idiosyncrasies with Filters Crossfeed / Audio filtering Sample
taps, the M Scaler soars above the typical the oddball size, confusing controls Rates DSD upto 512, PCM upto 768kHz 24-bit
DACs that have roughly a few hundred and coloured sampling rate buttons
taps. This allows 16x oversampling of that need to be memorized, the sound
the incoming digital signal with finer it creates is nothing short of magical.
transient detail, incredible timbral The Hugo TT2 by itself takes the clarity
accuracy and increased clarity. In and resolution of your digital source to
listening terms, this means that your a much higher level than being plugged
brain has to work a lot less trying to straight into an AVR or streaming amp.
“reconstruct” what it believes a trumpet USB was our preferred choice, plugged
should sound like, or a snare drum, into an iPad Pro running Apple Music

60 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

OFF THE SHELF

Connectivity
is good, with an
isolated USB port

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 61

OFF THE SHELF

Jamo S27F | Floorstanding Speakers | ₨1,44,800

Stylish Scandinavian sound

FOR Styling and design, even-handed tonal AGAINST Build quality could be better,
balance, wide dispersion, sounds big slight lack of presence in the midbass region

Scandinavia, Denmark in particular “The integration between the drivers is indeed
has been home to countless iconic remarkable and gives the S27F a large soundstage
loudspeakers. A hotbed of acoustic which is deep and wide.“
innovation, so to speak. Amongst them,
Jamo has jammed in a fair few, including there is more than meets the eye. The Rear-firing port minor shortcoming by sounding a
the unmistakable R909 open baffle that 1in soft dome fabric tweeter features needs a little bit thin and sometimes hollow in the
to this day, leaves jaws on the floor with a copper Faraday ring to improve breathing space midbass. There is a need for a bit more
its presence. But as far as mainstream, sensitivity and reduce non-linear body to the overall sound, but even
everyday designs go, the brand has distortion. Mounted inside a COMSOL- this observation is only in comparison
maintained a low profile for the past designed waveguide, the controlled to our reference speakers, costing
few years. Studio 7 is their first all-new dispersion characteristics of the S27F many times as much. In isolation,
design in a long time and interestingly, go a long way in making this compact the S27F represents amazing value
it gets that name from its instantly floorstander sound a lot bigger than it engineering that is no-frills and all-
recognisable 7-degree backward tilt on footprint might suggest. The bass drivers, function. The Jamos impress with their
the cabinet. But it’s as much function as made of embossed paper pulp have a detail retrieval and handling of micro
form and as we have seen on numerous ‘T’ pattern on the cone that is said to dynamics. Even at low levels, it doesn’t
occasions, brands use this technique to increase its rigidity and improve transient sacrifice much in the way of dynamics
mechanically time-align the different response. Jamo has used oversized or clarity, further emphasizing its good
drivers. While all the speakers in the magnets and an aluminium shorting design principles. Its rear-firing bass
Studio 7 range are 2-way designs, the ring to reduce distortion by acting as a port does mean that you shouldn’t be
floorstanders do feature multiple LF heatsink too. All of this may sound like sticking them right next to any wall
drivers and the S27F denote two 7in a lot of marketing spiel for just another or corner. With proper placement out
drivers to handle the bass duties, mated mid-end floorstander, but in the case into the room, the Chord Hugo TT2 and
to a 1in fabric dome tweeter. of the S27F, it’s the classic ‘whole being M-Scaler combo ensured that the sound
more than the sum of its parts’ tenet. escaped the boundaries of the speakers
Blue Fjord and Grey Cloud are readily and made them image superbly.
the two colour options available Placed about 8ft apart, the Jamo S27F Again, little details like rounded corners
on the entire range and both look was powered by a set of Arcam, AVM on the front baffle go a long way in
contemporary and stylish, especially and Marantz amplifiers, performing the avoiding diffraction and keeping the
with the contrasting plinth finished L/R channel duties for both stereo and focus sharp.
in silver. Bearing the subtly refreshed in a Dolby Atmos configuration. The
Jamo logo, the plinth itself is quite first reaction to its sound was that was With dedicated centre channels and
a unique feature at this price point surprise…in a good way! The Healer by bookshelf speakers that can be used
and Jamo has used this opportunity Gael Faure, the French artist’s newest as surrounds, the Studio 7 series is
not just for aesthetic purposes but single was delivered with the requisite ready to surround you in Scandinavian
also to house the all-critical crossover dose of mystique. The processed sound and they do represent amazing
components. Not only does make it vocals against the huge kick drum and value. Typically clean and timeless
a doodle to hook up banana plugs to piano backdrop made for an arresting design, well integrated drivers and a
the upward-facing connectors, but listen, the S27F digging into the lower sound that escapes the cabinets readily,
it also keeps the sensitive inductors registers with enough authority to not it’s a speaker that is easily driven by
in the crossover away from the stray miss a subwoofer. Switch moods to AV receivers or all-in-one boxes that
magnetic fields of the woofer magnets acoustic, Nils Lofgren’s classic Keith may have a streamer + integrated amp
and even microphonic vibrations that Don’t Go reveals the fabric domed combo. Jamo may have struck the right
could cause distortion. It’s an elegant tweeter’s ability to integrate well with balance of style and substance with
solution that is implemented well, but the midrange, which for a 2-way design Studio 7 and is definitely worth a listen.
it does expose some cost cuts in the is commendable. Be it the waveguide or
overall build quality as there is some the 7-degree tilt in the cabinet (or both), Says
creaking at the joints where the plinth the integration between the drivers is
meets the cabinet. The side walls are indeed remarkable and gives the S27F VERDICT Wide and deep soundstage with
made of 15mm MDF and the front baffle a large soundstage which is deep and impressive clarity and balance. Could do
is 18mm thick for an added degree wide, with fantastic anchoring of the with more body
of rigidity, along with bracing on the vocals in the centre.
insides to reduce flexing of the cabinet. TECH SPECS
On a knuckle rap test, you won’t hurt Tonally, the Jamo’s are neutral Design 2-way bass reflex Drivers 1 x 1in fabric
yourself but it also doesn’t add itself to enough to be non-fatiguing for long dome with waveguide, 2 x 7in paper pulp
the equation while playing at moderate listening sessions and the only thing embossed woofers Frequency Response
to high SPLs. they truly lack is scale. On electronic 67Hz - 21kHz Crossover 1.6kHz Inputs Single
tracks it isn’t an issue, but a well- binding posts Dimensions (WHD) 9 x 33.6 x
Though the driver array might look recorded folk rock artist like Jack 15in Weight 18kgs
simple, Jamo wants to reclaim its Johnson’s catalogue exposes this
status as a purveyor of pure sound with
sophisticated design and to that effect,

62 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

OFF THE SHELF

The 7° tilt is what
gives the Studio 7
its name

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 63

OFF THE SHELF

LG G2 OLED Gallery Edition 65in | 4K OLED Television | ₨3,99,990

Curtain raiser

FOR Great presets and colour calibration, all AGAINST Nothing artsy about Gallery Edition,
HDMI ports are 2.1, bright and colourful display proprietary wall mount, no table stand in the box

The LG G2 Gallery Edition might rub “Filmmaker Mode pops up when Ragnarok is on the LG G2 OLED and
off as a snoot’s Sunday morning art you decide to binge anything that we even plugged in the mighty Nvidia
indulgence but it’s far from it. In fact, is a worthy cinematic spectacle” RTX 4090 to experience true 4K 120Hz
it barely has anything in common with gaming to test the LG’s gaming chops.
the Samsung Frame which is aimed at colours and deeper blacks. LG says the The magic remote is Some big-budget games let you dim
converting a house party into a French Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro feature scans better with hotkeys the game’s HUD brightness but some
art exhibition. The LG G2 OLED TV, across 5000 blocks across the screen to for streaming apps don’t. Dirt 5 in particular has a white
in every way, delivers a remarkable deliver better HDR tones. Whatever the speedometer in the HUD which looks
movie-watching experience with its LG Alpha 9 Gen 5 AI Processor is doing, like a retina-burning patch of white on
jaw-dropping HDR quality and fantastic it’s working. The whites are even brighter the LG against the game’s gorgeous
tonal calibration out of the box. Of course, than our award-winning LG C1. It’s also night races. It’s not a complaint about
like all premium tellies, this too is packed brighter than the LG C2 which makes the telly but the game itself. Some
with features and hardware chops. this G2 delectably eye-searing when an games like Horizon Forbidden West
episode from The Rings of Power decides take full advantage of the OLED’s
LG calls this Gallery Edition because to pan towards brighter scenes in Dolby inky blacks and paint a mesmerising
the LG G2 can sit flush with the wall. Vision. Filmmaker Mode pops up when picture of the game’s colourful and
It comes with an unusual mounting you decide to binge anything that is a ever-changing weather system.
bracket that attaches from the top worthy cinematic spectacle. The black
and sinks into the telly chassis when and red hues in The Batman are handled Now, a razor thin design does have
you push it closer to the wall. LG says with cinema precision. Watching the its shortcomings and audio is one of
that the LG G2 Gallery Edition sits movie in Standard mode isn’t the same them. However, LG isn’t too bad and
on a wall like an art frame and we as watching it in Filmmaker Mode. LG it’s quite a capable-sounding telly
understand what they mean, however, simply cut the work for you and anyone among its peers. The Sony has better
that’s not even the best part about who wishes to sit and calibrate this separation because of the Acoustic
the TV. It’s actually the display that thing. It’s done very well and you will Surface Audio+ and LG only manages
makes the Gallery Edition so superb. enjoy the colour fidelity out of the box. to sound meatier at higher volumes.
It has one of the brightest displays in It’s not tinny in any measure but makes
the LG OLED lineup. It’s razor-thin, The LG G2 handles motion processing you wish for more especially when your
in bezels and thickness, so you won’t extremely well too. None of that soap eyes are enjoying the sweet givings of
have any squabbles with your loved opera effect and you won’t find it to be its bright display. The LG magic remote
ones over space issues. You don’t get a jittery mess either. It’s done just about is fantastic as usual and the webOS
a table stand here. It only comes with right. Again, LG G2’s picture presets are has all the necessary apps needed to
the wall mount or else the Gallery a cut above the rest. The Cinema Mode have a delightful viewing experience.
Edition may not resemble The Louvre, is another shining example of how
right? Speaking of which, the Gallery even if you lack the basic sensibilities of The LG G2 OLED Gallery Edition
Edition also lets you display art from tuning the picture quality, the LG will feels like a last-minute attempt from
different artists from around the world. present you with options that make the LG to stand shoulder-to-shoulder
You can also have your photos there right choice a lot easier. The brightness with Samsung and Sony’s QD-OLED
but it never really made the G2 feel is what makes the LG G2 OLED Gallery range. It may still be using the WOLED
special like the Samsung Frame which Edition a true rival to Samsung’s technology but overdriving the pixels
dedicates efforts to the bezels as well QD-OLED. It’s got a bigger heatsink to to deliver higher brightness is definitely
to have it look like an art frame. drive the brightness higher and keep paying off. We’re enamoured with
the thing from burning out. Higher the LG G2’s performance. It’s bright,
The display quality on the LG G2 is brightness means brighter colours. vivid and packs the best in class
incredible. Capable of reaching 1000nits colour calibration. Not to mention, a
of peak HDR brightness, the telly is well The telly is also a very premium lot cheaper than the QD-OLEDs in the
suited for all manner of HDR streaming gaming display. It’s got four HDMI 2.1 market. However, it’s very expensive
and if you really want to enjoy the LG G2 ports each capable of supporting 120Hz and that somehow makes the LG C2
OLED, the HDR content is where the fun gaming. The games on the PS5 feel look like a hot new Christmas deal.
starts. The LG G2 Gallery Edition handles incredibly different. Not only does the
bright and dark scenes in The Lord of the LG G2 OLED Gallery Edition support Says
Rings: The Rings of Power with incredible 120Hz but it also has Nvidia G-Sync,
fidelity. The whites are whiter and the AMD Freesync and VRR. LG says the VERDICT LG’s brightest display is capable
blacks are simply deeper because it’s an telly is also capable of 0.1ms response of outstanding picture quality and even
OLED. However, part of what makes the time but we have our reservations. better gaming performance
LG G2’s quality an all-rounder of sorts is Nevertheless, games like Dirt 5, Elden
that it can perform very well in lit room Ring, Gran Turismo 7, Horizon Forbidden TECH SPECS
conditions. There’s a filter on the display West and God of War have never looked Resolution 4K OLED Picture Processor Alpha
that kicks out most of the glare and if this gorgeous. Our entire game time 9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K Refresh Rate 120 Hz,
your viewing conditions are in the living for the latest PS5 game God of War G-Sync, FreeSync, VRR, ALLM HDR Cinema
room with some ceiling lights, the LG HDR, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR 10 Pro, HLG Ports 4x
G2 is quite capable of maintaining richer HDMI 2.1 Speaker 4.2 Ch Speaker, 60W

64 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

OFF THE SHELF

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 65

SeptemOcbteorb2e0r 2210₨2215₨0150

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BUYER’S GUIDE

BGUUYIEDRE’S NOW WITH THE
BEST BUYS IN
The definitive guide to the EVERY CATEGORY
best home-entertainment
HI-FI 68
kit you can buy Stereo amplifiers 70
CD players & transports 71
From 65in 4K TVs to turntables, and from portable DACs 72
Bluetooth speakers to Dolby Atmos surround Music streamers 73
sound packages, here’s where you’ll find the Stereo speakers 77
perfect hi-fi and AV product, fast. Systems 79
Turntables 80
NEW ENTRIES THIS MONTH Wireless speakers
If you doubt that good things can come in tiny
packages, check out the diminutive – but excellent HOME CINEMA 83
– iFi GoBlu DAC. JBL’s 4309 standmounters aren’t Home cinema amplifiers 83
especially small but they, too, impressed us hugely. Projectors 84
Then we have two sweet-sounding pairs of over- Soundbars & soundbases 85
ears: Beyerdynamic’s classy DT 900 Pro X and the Speaker packages 86
great-value Sennheiser HD250 BT. Video streamers 87
Televisions

PORTABLE 88
Headphones

Sennheiser HD 250 BT
You’ll struggle to get better
sound – or a better build – for the
money that these will cost you

JBL 4309
That PA-stack appearance tells you all you need
to know: these JBLs sound big, loud and thrilling

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 67

BE S TBUYER’S GUIDE HI-FI
BUYS
AMPLIFIERS
The only products
worth considering THE BEATING HEART OF YOUR HI-FI SYSTEM

Rega io ₨50,447

Best stereo amplifier upto ₨50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Those who are happy with a no-fuss, purely analogue amp and who prioritise
entertainment should arguably consider the io their number one choice.
Power 30W Inputs Line-in x2, MM Outputs Headphone

NAD D 3020 V2 ₨54,600

September 2018 ★★★★★
A likeable effort that features a full-bodied sonic performance
with fine timing and dynamics and lots of useful features.
Power 30W Inputs Line-in, MM, optical, coaxial, BT Outputs Headphone

Marantz PM6007 ₨37,999

Best stereo amplifier ₨30,000-₨40,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Clearer and punchier than its Award-winning predecessor, Marantz’s latest
entry-level amplifier never puts the formidable 6000 Series dynasty in doubt.
Power 45W Inputs Line-in x4, MM, coax, optical Outputs 6.3mm h’phone

Rega Brio ₨75,000

Best stereo amplifier ₨65,000-₨75,000 Awards 2018 ★★★★★
An upgrade on the Brio-R, this incredibly talented stereo amplifier
offers a sound that’s subtle, precise and engaging.
Power 50W Inputs Line-in x4, MM Outputs 6.3mm headphone, record

Cambridge Audio CXA61 ₨99,900

Best stereo amplifier ₨80,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Justifies the price premium over the Audiolab 6000A and the Rega Brio by
delivering a superior combination of sonic ability features and build quality.
Power 60W Inputs Line-in x4 Outputs Preamp, speaker x2, headphone

Musical Fidelity M2si ₨TBC

September 2019 ★★★★★
It doesn’t have the feature list of many of its rivals, but the M2si
counters with an impressively refined and entertaining performance.
Power 76W Inputs Line-in x5 Outputs Preamplifier, tape loop

Rega Elex-R ₨1,30,000

Best stereo amplifier ₨1,00,000-₨1,30,000, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
Arguably the best-value amp Rega makes, with insight and a precise handling
of rhythms that’s hard to better even at double the price.
Power 72W Inputs Line-in x4, MM Outputs Preamp

Cambridge Audio CXA81 ₨1,29,000

Best stereo amplifier ₨1,00,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Class leaders are constantly being replaced in hi-fi – but rarely is it
done so soundly as by Cambridge Audio’s CXA81 integrated amplifier.
Power 80W Inputs Line-in x4,XLR, USB Outputs Pre, sub, headphone

68 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

AMPLIFIERS CONTINUED

Naim Nait 5si ₨1,65,000

January 2015 ★★★★★

Naim’s starter amp is an exceptionally polished performer which
combines drama with the insight and subtlety to match the very best.
Power 60W Inputs Line-in x3 Outputs Headphone

Naim Nait XS 3 ₨3,25,000

Best stereo amplifier ₨3,00,000-₨3,30,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

A fit and forget product in the best sense, the Nait XS 3 slots into your system
and does just what you want – delivers music with emotional impact intact.
Power 70W Inputs Line-in x4 Outputs Preamplifier, headphone

Roksan Blak ₨4,99,999

Best stereo amplifier ₨4,00,000+, Awards 2018 ★★★★★

A well equipped all-rounder with a powerful and energetic sound.
It’s happy to work with a wide range of systems and musical genres too.
Power 150W Inputs Balanced XLR, line-in x3, MM, USB, aptX Bluetooth

Rega Aethos ₨3,90,000

Best stereo amplifier over ₨3,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

The Aethos retains all the verve of Rega’s established affordable integrateds,
but adds a huge dose of extra clarity, precision and muscle to the recipe.
Power 125W Inputs Line-in x5 Outputs Preamp, headphone

Naim Supernait 3 ₨TBC

Best stereo amplifier over ₨2,50,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★

In adding a good-quality MM phono stage and tweaking the power
amp section, Naim has made a great amplifier even better
Power 80W Inputs Line-in x5, MM, XLR Outputs Subwoofer, headphone

Luxman L-509X ₨10,20,000

June 2018 ★★★★★

Much more than an expensive retro throwback; its blend of
build, features and performance is hard to better at this price.
Power 120W Inputs Line-in x6 Outputs Headphone, preamp

McIntosh MA252 ₨5,82,900 NEW
ENTRY
September 2020

The MA252 offers up an affordable option for those seeking authentic
McIntosh quality without some of the loftier prices.
Power 160W Inputs Line-in x3, MM Outputs Subwoofer

McIntosh MHA200 ₨3,23,900 NEW
ENTRY
January 2022 ★★★★★

The McIntosh MHA200 is charming to use and a hugely capable performer
across a wide range of headphones.
Inputs RCA, balanced XLR Outputs 6.3mm,balanced XLR, 3-pin XLR (LR)

Nagra Classic Pre/Power amp ₨TBC

August 2018 ★★★★★

Rivals have more muscle, but once in full flow the Nagra lets the music take
centre stage. One of the finest pre/powers money can buy.
Power 100W Inputs Line-in x5, phono, XLR

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 69

CD PLAYERS & TRANSPORTS

CD PLAYERS & TRANSPORTS

GET THE RIGHT PLAYER AND CD CAN STILL SHINE

Cambridge CXC ₨48,900

Awards 2015 ★★★★★
If you already have a DAC (the CXC is useless without one) we wouldn’t hesitate
in recommending this transport over a standalone CD player.
Type CD transport Outputs Coaxial, optical

Marantz CD6007 ₨67,410

Best CD player under ₨70,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
No one can accuse Marantz of pushing the boundaries on the CD6007, but
it has taken an already excellent CD player and made it a bit better.
Type CD transport Outputs Coaxial, optical

Musical Fidelity M2sCD ₨TBC

June 2020 ★★★★★
Musical Fidelity’s CD player sounds expansive, detailed and delicately layered
- a resoundingly listenable proposition.
Type CD player Outputs Coaxial, optical

Naim CD5si ₨1,40,000

October 2014 ★★★★★
The CD5si boasts a full-bodied, winningly enthusiastic approach to music.
The absence of digital outputs means there’s no upgrade path.
Type CD player Outputs Line-out, DIN

Cyrus CDi ₨1,48,975

Best CD player over ₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Cyrus says this player is its best-sounding yet, and after listening
to how confident and entertaining it sounds, it’s hard to disagree.
Type CD player Outputs Line-out, coaxial, optical

Roksan Caspian M2 CD ₨3,59,999

Awards 2010 ★★★★★
The Caspian M2 CD has been around the block and is showing few signs of its
age but it still combines skill with timing, dynamics and authority.
Type CD player Outputs Line-out, coaxial, optical, USB, XLR

Marantz SA-10 ₨5,84,900

April 2018 ★★★★★
One of the best digital source components around. Its unfussy disposition
allows it to sound at home across a wide range of systems.
Type CD player Outputs Coaxial, optical

Chord Blu MkII ₨TBC

January 2018 ★★★★★
The most informative and enjoyable sound we’ve heard from the CD
format. Partner it with the DAVE and we doubt you can do better.
Type CD transport Outputs Coaxial x2 Inputs Coaxial, USB

70 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

DACs DACs

A DIGITAL-TO-ANALOGUE CONVERTER IS A MODERN HI-FI MUST November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 71

Cyrus soundKey ₨TBC

Best DAC under ₨15,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★

An affordable, compact DAC that turns mobile listening into an authentic
high-fidelity experience. iOS users may find connectivity a little inelegant.
Size 2 x 5 x 1cm Resolution 24-bit/96kHz

Audiolab M-DAC nano ₨TBC

Best DAC ₨15,000-₨20,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★

If you’ve got a good pair of wired headphones and want to improve your
sound on the move, the Audiolab M-DAC nano makes a mighty strong case.
Inputs Bluetooth 4.2 Size 44 x 44 x 14mm Res 32-bit/384kHz

iFi Zen DAC V2 ₨24,999

Best DAC under ₨25,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

A good jump in quality over the Award-winning original, to keep features and
performance best in class – and for not much extra money.
Inputs USB 3.0 Size 35 x 160 x 117mm Res PCM 348kHz, DSD256, MQA

iFi Go Blu ₨14,999 NEW
ENTRY
February 2022 ★★★★★

When portability is paramount, the iFi Go Blu is every millimetre the
convenient sonic upgrade your phone needs.
Size 54 x 34 x 13mm Resolution 24-bit/96kHz (wired)

Audioquest DragonFly Cobalt ₨29,499

Best DAC ₨25,000-₨30,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

If you loved the DragonFly Red and you’re looking to make the next step up
without compromising on size or form, this is something of a no-brainer
Size 6 x 2 x 1cm Resolution 24-bit/96kHz

Chord Mojo ₨TBC

Best DAC under ₨30,000-₨50,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★

The majority of the Hugo’s performance for a fraction of the price.
An enthusiastic performer that stays refined and superbly balanced.
Inputs Coaxial, optical, USB Size 2 x 6 x 8cm Res 32-bit/768kHz, DSD 512

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M ₨TBC

Best DAC ₨30,000-₨50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

25 years and several evolutionary steps along the DacMagic line in terms of
features and performance, the DacMagic 200M is a talented all-rounder.
Inputs Coax, opt, USB Size 6 x 22 x 19cm Res 32-bit/768kHz, DSD 512

Audiolab M-DAC+ ₨TBC

August 2016 ★★★★★

Audiolab’s follow up to the M-DAC gets a great deal right with a sound
that’s neat, tidy and expansive. The M-DAC+ demands your attention.
Inputs Coaxial x2, optical x2 Size 11 x 25 x 29cm Res 32-bit/384kHz

Chord Qutest ₨1,09,990

Best DAC ₨1,00,000-₨1,20,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

As with the 2Qute, the Qutest is a superior DAC which sets a new
benchmark at this price with its clear and precise performance.
Inputs Coax x2, opt, USB Size 4 x 16 x 7cm Res 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD512

DACs CONTINUED

Chord Hugo 2 ₨1,69,990

Best DAC over ₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The Hugo 2 has a hefty price tag but, at this level, there isn’t another
DAC near that can communicate so unambiguously or so effortlessly.
Inputs Coax, opt, USB, BT Size 2 x 10 x 13cm Res 32-bit/768kHz

Chord DAVE ₨7,99,990

Awards 2016 ★★★★★
The uniquely named DAVE costs a lot, but we’d argue it’s the best DAC money
can buy. Build quality is excellent and the sound is very special.
Inputs Coaxial x2, opt x2, XLR Size 6 x 34 x 15cm Res 32-bit/768kHz

Nagra HD DAC/MPS ₨TBC

September 2018 ★★★★★
An effort that boasts a natural, fluid and informative sound. If you’re
in the market for the ultimate DAC, this would certainly be a frontrunner.
Inputs Coax x2, opt, AES/EBU x2, USB Res 24-bit/384kHz

MUSIC STREAMERS

THE BEST WAY TO SHARE YOUR TUNES AROUND THE HOUSE

Audiolab 6000N Play ₨47,750

Best music streamer under ₨50,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
A great, affordable way to implement streaming into your system without
compromising sonic quality. The best budget solution we’ve seen…
Outputs Line-in, coaxial, optical, subwoofer

Chord 2yu ₨49,990

November 2021 ★★★★★
Partnered with a suitably capable digital-to-analogue converter, this
could be all the digital source you’ll ever need.
Outputs USB, coaxial, optical, BNC

Bluesound Node (2021) ₨61,512

Best music streamer under ₨75,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
For this outlay the Node 2021 represents one of the most entertaining
and comprehensive ways of adding music streaming to your hi-fi system.
Outputs RCA, coaxial, optical, subwoofer, 3.5mm

Cambridge CXN V2 ₨1,08,900

Best music streamer ₨75,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
All the success of the classy CXN streamer, with added Google
Chromecast. Great design, feature set and performance.
Inputs Coaxial, optical, USB x2

Chord 2go ₨99,990

July 2020 ★★★★★
The Chord 2go is a brilliant way to add streaming capability to the company’s
Award-winning Hugo 2 DAC (and only the Hugo 2). Works as a server too
Inputs Ethernet

Arcam ST60 ₨1,94,850

Best music streamer ₨1,50,000-₨2,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Arcam’s first effort in the music streaming field is laudable: the ST60 ticks
multiple streaming boxes while prioritising performance.
Inputs Coaxial, optical, USB

72 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

MUSIC STREAMERS CONTINUED

Cambridge Audio Azur 851N ₨1,62,900

Best music streamer ₨1,00,000-₨1,65,000, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
A sterling streamer that boasts excellent file support, plenty of
connections and a sound that’s both expressive and dynamic.
Inputs Coaxial x2, optical x2, USB x3

NAD C 658 ₨1,10,900

Best music streamer ₨1,00,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
One of the most fully furnished, future-proofed and intuitive streamers we’ve
come across – and one of the most convincing performers at this price.
Inputs Coaxial, optical, USB, phono, RCA

Melco N100 ₨2,50,000

June 2020 ★★★★★
An excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-quality streamer with
storage built-in and already have a capable DAC, or can add one.
Inputs USB 3.0 x2, ethernet Outputs USB 3.0

Naim ND5 XS 2 ₨3,03,000

Best music streamer over ₨2,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Naim’s ‘entry-level’ network streamer? Fear not; if this is the best
your system ever sounds, you’ll be doing your ears mighty proud.
Inputs USB, ethernet Outputs Line-out, DIN, coaxial, optical

Cambridge Audio Edge NQ ₨4,02,900

March 2019 ★★★★★
A truly fantastic streaming preamplifier that has a clear, bold and spacious
presentation across all its many inputs. And it looks good, too.
Inputs Line-in x2, balanced XLR, coaxial, optical x2, HDMI, USB x2, BT

Linn Selekt DSM ₨TBC

Reviewed online, 2019 ★★★★★
If you’re looking for a top-end one-box electronics solution, this is a good
place to start. Its modular approach to high-quality sound is admirable.
Inputs Line-in, MM, MC, coaxial x2, optical x2, HDMI, USB, AirPlay

Linn Klimax DSM AV ₨45,000,00

January 2021 ★★★★★
When it comes to insight, clarity and dynamic expression, Linn’s
exceptional range-topping Klimax DSM is second to none.
Inputs Toslink x1, SPDIF x2, balanced XLR x1, RCA x2, USB x1, HDMI x4

STEREO SPEAKERS

THEY BRING THE MUSIC TO YOUR EARS – SO CHOOSE WITH CARE

Dali Spektor 2 ₨34,800 “The way these
speakers handle
Best standmount speaker under ₨35,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ dynamics is
The 2s combine Dali’s traditional strengths with a generous dose of impressive”
entertainment that even Mission and Q Acoustics struggle to match.
Size (hwd) 17 x 28 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2a “These new
Debuts should be
Elac Debut B5.2 ₨31,900 considered one of
the company’s
Best standmount speaker under ₨35,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ finest efforts”
ELAC’s latest budget standmounter is talented
enough to worry the established competition. November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 73
Size (hwd) 34 x 18 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 1

STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED “Tonally, these are
nicely judged and
Dali Oberon 1 ₨45,000 have a smooth treble
that still has plenty
February 2019 ★★★★★ of bite”
About the size of a shoe, these articulate and bold-sounding
speakers have a wonderfully unfussy nature and are a joy to listen to. “The Q350s
Size (hwd) 27 x 16 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 display a level of
clarity and subtlety
KEF Q350 ₨63,000 unheard of at
this price”
Best standmount speaker ₨60,000-₨65,000, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
“It’s as if the old
KEF has delivered a speaker that’s a cut above the rest, with speakers deliver a
a sophisticated, insightful presentation that belies its modest price. vocal line that slinks
Size (hwd) 36 x 21 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 away, while the new
pair’s rendition
B&W 607 S2 Anniversary ₨79,000 hangs in the air
like a mist”
Best standmount speaker ₨75,000-₨80,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
“Given the modest
A cleaner, more insightful and overall more engaging performance from a nature of the changes
pair of speakers that were already among the best out there for the money. we weren’t
Size (hwd) 30 x 16.5 x 21cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 expecting much
of a difference in
B&W 606 S2 Anniversary ₨99,000 the sound. We
were wrong”
Best standmount speaker ₨90,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
“They pound out
The original 606s are fine speakers, but this new version is crescendos with
obviously better across the board. relish, refusing to
Size (hwd) 35 x 19 x 30cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 harden or compress,
even at high volume”
Revel Concerta2 M16 ₨1,04,798
“We’re soon
Best standmount speaker ₨1,00,000-₨1,10,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★ marvelling at the
Metas’ delicacy and
One of the best speakers we’ve ever heard below the ₨1000 mark. precision. They
Make sure to partner carefully to get the best out of them. sound so much
Size (hwd) 37 x 22 x 27cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 more transparent
than before”
KEF LS50 Meta ₨1,50,000
“The moment we
Best standmount speaker ₨1,40,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ start listening, we
get a brilliant sense
KEF has taken a terrific speaker and made it even better with its innovative of scale and space
Metamaterial tech. The LS50 Metas are now the class leader at this level. from the Lintons”
Size (hwd) 31 x 20 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4
“The KEFs capture
Wharfedale Linton ₨1,39,500 the natural acoustic
of the recording
May 2020 ★★★★★ superbly”

You could listen to these speakers for days and still not get tired. Effortless “These speakers are
weight, spot-on stereo imaging and layer upon layer of marvellous detail. impressively unfussy
Size (hwd) 30 x 19 x 25cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 Active Yes about placement…
in each case, they
KEF R3 ₨1,96,000 make the best of
the situation”
Best standmount speaker ₨1,90,000-₨2,00,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★
“With appropriate
These KEFs are exceptional. Knocking out the ATCs (below) to take home music, they offer an
an Award, these are the most complete speakers at this price. Stunning. intense emotional hit
Size (hwd) 42 x 20 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 that most rivals just
don’t get close to”
Spendor Classic 4/5 ₨2,40,000

June 2021 ★★★★★

These Spendors are refined, insightful and wonderfully
balanced – the ideal premium speakers for a small room.
Size (hwd) 31 x 19 x 16.5cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2

JBL 4309 ₨POR NEW
ENTRY

February 2022 ★★★★★

The JBL 4309 may not be the most sophisticated listen, but there’s little at the

price that delivers sound with such energy.

Size (hwd) 42 x 26 x 23cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2

74 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

ATC SCM19 ₨2,60,000 STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED

Awards 2016 ★★★★★ “We like the
It’s quite a trick for a speaker to be highly analytical with music, yet SCM19s’ ability to
never sound clinical or passionless. But that’s the case with the SCM19s. render a large
Size (hwd) 44 x 27 x 30cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 soundstage and
populate it with well
Dynaudio Special Forty ₨3,24,999 focused instruments”

Best standmount speaker ₨3,00,000+, Awards 2019 ★★★★★ “They sound far
When paired with talented electronics, these standmounters will bigger and more
shine, offering a confident, muscular and subtle sound. Lots of fun. authoritative than a
Size (hwd) 36 x 20 x 32cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 36cm-high speaker
has any right to”
ProAc Response D2R ₨3,95,000
“The Response D2Rs
Best standmount speaker over ₨3,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ are wonderfully
Wonderfully transparent, yet never overly analytical, these ProAcs excel expressive speakers,
at giving the music the limelight. We can’t ask for any more than that. even at low volumes”
Size (hwd) 43 x 21 x 26cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 6
“We can’t think of
Spendor Classic 2/3 ₨5,40,000 a better all-round
alternative at this
August 2018 ★★★★★ price level”
They have their predecessor’s easy-going nature, as well as the punch
and rhythmic precision to work well with a wide range of music. “If you want speakers
Size (hwd) 54 x 27 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 that get to the heart
of the music rather
Dynaudio Contour 20i ₨4,99,999 than just play the
right notes, these
October 2020 ★★★★★ should be high on
These Dynaudios hold their own against formidable opposition, your shortlist”
proving to be a supremely rhythmic and musically cohesive option.
Size (hwd) 44 x 21.5 x 36cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 “They sound big,
bold and enthusiastic
Fyne Audio F701 ₨TBC in a way that eludes
much of the high-end
January 2021 ★★★★★ competition”
Among the most musically engaging choices we’ve heard. If you have this
much to spend, make sure you hear these before buying anything else. “Rather than excel in
Size (hwd) 46.5 x 28 x 39cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 a few specific areas,
they perform well
KEF Reference 1 ₨12,00,000 across the board”

July 2018 ★★★★★ “A speaker
These are superb all-rounders that work well across a wide range of that belies its
music, systems and rooms. The dedicated stands are pricey though. reasonable price
Size (hwd) 44 x 21 x 43cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 tag at every turn”

Fyne Audio F302 ₨55,000 “They deliver a lovely
layered sound that’s
Best floorstander under ₨60,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ brimming with detail
The superlative F302s’ full-bodied presentation and low-end and dynamic
presence make this another easy recommendation for this brand. nuance”
Size (hwd) 93 x 19 x 27cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3
“These Elacs can go
Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 ₨83,000 low, but there is a
bass clarity beyond
Best floorstander under ₨85,000, Awards 2021★★★★★ the grasp of most
Terrifically accomplished for the money. Don’t buy another pair of floorstanders at
floorstanders at this level without trying these first. this price”
Size (hwd) 98 x 18 x 32cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 4
November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 75
Elac Debut 2.0 F5.2 ₨65,900

September 2019 ★★★★★
A mature, honest presentation, neither sucking the life out of a piece, nor
exaggerating it. Elac is one of the few companies to do this with such aplomb.
Size (hwd) 100 x 18 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 1

STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED “The Q Acoustics
have the subtlety to
Q Acoustics 3050i ₨81,800 pick out textures and
discern dynamics
Best floorstander ₨75,000-₨85,000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ without combing
These punchy and entertaining floorstanders are an improvement on their over intricacies”
predecessors. They’re well built and flexible about positioning, too.
Size (hwd) 102 x 31 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 “The Dali’s sound
simply flows in an
Dali Oberon 5 ₨94,800 organic and
convincing manner”
Best floorstander ₨85,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
A great option for floorstanders under ₨1,00,000, these Dalis are fun- “It’s in the way
sounding speakers, with a great dose of transparency that’s impressive for everything hangs
the price. Size (hwd) 83 x 16 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 together; each piece
of music is
Acoustic Energy AE309 ₨1,25,000 effortlessly whole”

August 2019 ★★★★★ “They punch hard,
These are simply a fun, well-rounded pair of floorstanders that combining high
are as likeable as anything we’ve heard for less than a grand. levels of detail with
Size (hwd) 90 x 17.5 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 the ability to produce
a cohesive and
Triangle Borea BR08 ₨1,87,000 musical whole”

Best floorstander ₨75,000-₨90,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ “The F501s
These Triangles are exceptional – certainly good enough to challenge the are an
best at this price. Play all genres of music and do it with an addictive charm. extremely
Size (hwd) 102 x 21 x 32cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 confident
calling-card”
Fyne Audio F501 ₨1,37,900
“Tying everything
Best floorstander ₨1,20,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2018 ★★★★★ together is a fine
Another thrillingly accomplished effort from Fyne. Partner them sense of timing
well and they’ll deliver a detailed, revealing and confident sound. that results in
Size (hwd) 98 x 20 x 32cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 surefooted rhythms”

Wharfedale Evo 4.4 ₨1,78,000 “They are blessed
with a wow factor
Best floorstanding speaker ₨1,50,000-₨1,80,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ that other speakers
The Evo 4.4s are entertaining and detailed, with enough in the at this price can only
way of refinement to make them an excellent long-term choice. dream of, especially
Size (hwd) 106 x 25 x 35cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 with voices”

B&W 603 ₨2,35,000 “A surprisingly
spacious
June 2019 ★★★★★ presentation that
The B&W 603s are floorstanding speakers that are up there wouldn’t be out of
with the best at this price. You should give them a whirl… place in rivals twice
Size (hwd) 98.5 x 19 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 the height”

Neat Iota Alpha ₨TBC “It’s impressive how
effortless the Revels
Best floorstander £1200-£2000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ sound. They dispatch
If you want fuss-free floorstanders that don’t dominate the room, there any genre you throw
are few better alternatives than this entertaining effort from Neat. their way with
Size (hwd) 45 x 20 x 16cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 minimal fuss”

Revel Concerta2 F35 ₨1,63,800 “The DT8s paint on
an expansive sonic
May 2019 ★★★★★ canvas, and locate
There aren’t many speakers at this price that make listening instruments with
to music as enjoyable as the Revel Concerta2 F35s. precision and
Size (hwd) 102 x 21 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 stability”

ProAc Response DT8 ₨3,25,000

Best floorstander ₨3,00,000-₨3,25,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The DT8s deliver such an entertaining sound, we can’t help but recommend
them. Take a bit of care with system-matching and they will impress.
Size (hwd) 98 x 20 x 23cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 5 (plus 2 specials)

76 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

Spendor A7 ₨4,90,000 STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED

Best floorstanders over ₨4,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ “The sound is
terrifically clean and
The A7s continue Spendor’s knack for combining precision, organised. The A7s
clarity and subtlety with hugely enjoyable dynamics and rhythm. also pack in bags of
Size (hwd) 94 x 18 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 punch to keep things
sounding lively”
PMC Twenty5.23 ₨TBC “If you’re looking
for top-class
Awards 2016 ★★★★★ floorstanders,
we can’t think
PMC has created a terrific pair of floorstanding speakers. of a better
Match them with a suitably talented system and they will sing. alternative”
Size (hwd) 91 x 16 x 33cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4
“If it’s all about the
Neat Iota Xplorer ₨TBC music for you, as
opposed to absolute
September 2018 ★★★★★ sonic transparency,
give these Neats
The Xplorers are another odd-looking pair of speakers from Neat, a serious listen”
but they have a way of delivering music that’s truly spellbinding.
Size (hwd) 74 x 30 x 22cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 “Capable of a
performance
Q Acoustics Concept 500 ₨4,29,900 that strongly
challenges
January 2018 ★★★★★ alternatives up to
twice the price”
One of the most impressive high-end speakers we’ve heard in recent
years, these offer insight, great bass and wide-ranging dynamics. “Importantly, they’re
Size (hwd) 115 x 40 x 35cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 subtle, conveying
nuances with skill”
Audiovector SR3 Avantgarde ₨TBC
“Once up and
January 2019 ★★★★★ running, these
ATCs are deeply
These floorstanders match their impressive price with impressive sound. They impressive speakers”
demonstrate a good deal of organisation, stunning clarity and real punch.
Size (hwd) 103 x 19 x 33cm Bi-wire Tri-wire Finishes 8 “They charm and
thrill. They make us
ATC SCM40A ₨4,60,000 happy or sad as the
music demands.
April 2014 ★★★★★ We can’t get enough
of them”
The price looks steep but factor in built-in amplification and exceptional
sound, and the SCM40As emerge as something of a high-end bargain. November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 77
Size (hwd) 98 x 37 x 34cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 Active Yes

Sonus Faber Lumina III ₨2,33,900 NEW
ENTRY
The Sonus Faber Lumina III are still not what can be termed as “budget”

speakers, but they offer a sample of luxurious sound for a lot less money and

only a minor compromise in sonic ability.

Size (whd) 9 x 38.9 x 10.9in Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3

SYSTEMS

CONVENIENCE DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN LOWER QUALITY

Pro-Ject Juke Box E ₨77,777

Best turntable system, Awards 2019 ★★★★★
An impressive all-in-one system with a level of functionality that’s
difficult to replicate in individual separates for a similar price.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Inputs Line-in, BT Outputs Line-out

Denon D-M41DAB ₨49,900

Best microsystem, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Denon hasn’t rested on its laurels. It’s managed to better the M40,
delivering improved sound and functionality. The best just got better.
Inputs CD, line-in, optical x2, BT, DAB/FM Outputs Subwoofer

SYSTEMS CONTINUED D

KEF LSX ₨1,29,000

Best all-in-one system under ₨1,30,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
KEF has shrunk its excellent LS50 Wirelesses to create a wonderfully
insightful and flexible pair of speakers with a neat, colourful design.
Inputs 3.5mm, optical, BT, AirPlay 2, wi-fi Outputs Subwoofer

Marantz PM7000N ₨85,000

Best hi-fi system under ₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
A practical, well-furnished just-add-speakers streaming system
that impresses with its entertaining performance
Inputs USB, coaxial, optical, analogue, wi-fi Outputs Sub, headphone

Cambridge Audio Evo 75 ₨2,13,000

August 2021 ★★★★★
Many streaming hi-fi products sound great, look superb or are pleasant to
use, but not many manage to nail all three as convincingly as the Evo 75.
Inputs Line-in, coaxial, optical, USB, HDMI Arc, ethernet

Arcam SA30 ₨2,39,990

May 2020 ★★★★★
A fine example of how well music streaming can be implemented into
traditional hi-fi – and how discreetly. Just add a control device and speakers.
Inputs Line-in x3, coaxial x2, opt x2, USB, MM and MC phono

Naim Uniti Atom ₨2,90,000

Best hi-fi system over ₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Rarely does a product look and sound this good. A triumph of
design, the Atom boasts class-leading levels of insight and clarity.
Inputs Line-in, coaxial, opt x2, USB, BT, wi-fi Outputs Line-out, headphone

KEF LS50 Wireless II ₨3,29,000

Best all-in-one system over ₨3,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The LS50 Wireless IIs arrive with a world of expectation on their shoulders
– and they well and truly meet them. This is a sequel of rare quality.
Inputs Line-in, optical, 3.5mm, HDMI (eARC), BT, wi-fi Outputs Subwoofer

Dali Rubicon 2 C ₨TBC

May 2020 ★★★★★
Dali draws on its past achievements in passive and active speaker design
to create this convenient and entertaining all-in-one speaker system.
Inputs Line-in, optical and coaxial digital, 3.5mm, aptX HD Bluetooth

Naim Uniti Nova ₨5,60,000

January 2018 ★★★★★
It’s a lot of money to pay for a system, but the Nova is as complete and
convincing an argument for one-box convenience you’re likely to hear.
Inputs CD, DIN, coaxial x2, optical x2, HDMI, BT, wi-fi Outputs Line-out

Sonos System from ₨99,999

Best multi-room system ₨1,00,000+, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
If you don’t need hi-res, Sonos is an obvious choice for multi-room.
A great user experience alongside a full-bodied, insightful sound.
Res 16-bit/44.1kHz App iOS, Android Formats MP3, FLAC, WMA

78 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

TURNTABLES

DECKS TO KEEP THE VINYL REVIVAL THRIVING

Pro-Ject Primary E ₨33,500

Best turntable under ₨35,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Pro-Ject has revised a budget deck to nail the under
₨35k market – and has succeeded on every front.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 42 x 33cm

Rega Planar 1 ₨39,000

Best turntable ₨35,000-₨40,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
This revamped entry-level deck from Rega doesn’t sound anything like an
entry-level deck. Pleasingly solid, accurate and agile – it’s a lovely listen.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 12 x 45 x 36cm

Pro-Ject Essential III ₨44,500

October 2017 ★★★★★
Another excellent turntable from Pro-Ject. The Essential III is
easy to set up and offers a detailed and musical performance.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 42 x 33cm

Pro-Ject Debut III S Audiophile ₨77,876

June 2018 ★★★★★
Its solid design, smart finish and natural treble reinforce the
Debut range’s knack for delivering great, affordable sound.
Speed 33⅓ & 45rpm Size (hwd) 12 x 42 x 32cm

Rega Planar 1 Plus ₨48,000

July 2018 ★★★★★
All the sonic talents of the Planar 1 with an equally talented phono stage built
in. The Plus is a winning combination of convenience and excellent quality.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 12 x 45 x 36cm

Rega Planar 3/Elys 2 ₨82,000

Best turntable ₨75,000-₨85,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Rega builds on the 3’s predecessor by adding extra servings
of clarity, precision and insight. The result is the best RP3 yet.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 12 x 45 x 36cm

Technics SL-1500C ₨1,44,000

Best turntable ₨1,00,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
With a really good built-in phono stage and an auto-lift function, this
Technics is a beautifully made, fuss-free record player that sounds great.
Speed 33⅓, 45, 78rpm Size (hwd) 23 x 16 x 12cm

Clearaudio Concept ₨2,15,000

Best turntable ₨2,00,000+, Awards 2017 ★★★★★
A thoroughly sorted, easy-to-own package with tremendous sound,
combining punch, extension and tonal variation in equal measure.
Speed 33⅓, 45, 78rpm Size (hwd) 14 x 42 x 35cm

Rega Planar 6/Ania ₨1,70,000

Best turntable ₨1,50,000-₨2,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
A refined, articulate and precise turntable that’s lovely to listen to.
It requires good system-matching to get the best out of it though.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 12 x 45 x 37cm

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 79

TURNTABLES CONTINUED “The Wonderboom 2
delivers a sound as
Rega Planar 8/Apheta 2 ₨3,00,000 cohesive and
detailed as we could
Best turntable over ₨3,00,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★ hope for at the price”
Clever engineering and sky-high standards make this Rega’s most ambitious
and boundary-pushing turntable yet. It’s gorgeous in sound and design. “It’s clear that the
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 13 x 42 x 32cm HomePod Mini
comfortably
Vertere DG-1 Dynamic Groove ₨4,65,000 outperforms its size
and price”
Best turntable over ₨4,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The Vertere DG-1 is up against some mighty competition, but given
what we’ve heard it can go into any such comparisons with confidence.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 13 x 38 x 37cm

VPI Prime ₨TBC

Awards 2015 ★★★★★
A confident-sounding package that can organise with the best and
maintain composure even when faced with the most challenging music.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 18 x 54 x 40cm

VPI Prime Signature ₨TBC

February 2018 ★★★★★
This upgraded version of the standard Prime builds on that model’s
strengths, with more insight, stronger dynamics and a lovely stability.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 18 x 54 x 40cm

Vertere Acoustics MG-1 MkII/Mystic ₨TBC

Online ★★★★★
Renders sound with a combination of precision, agility and dynamic
dexterity that we haven’t heard bettered by any rival near this price.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 18 x 54 x 40cm

Clearaudio Innovation Wood/DaVinci V2 ₨TBC

2010 ★★★★★
This gorgeous, mind-blowingly expensive turntable is so good, we’ve been
using it as our reference deck for years now. Extravagant, but it’s worth it.
Speed 33⅓, 45, 78rpm Size (hwd) 14 x 47 x 39cm

Linn Klimax LP12 ₨TBC

July 2017 ★★★★★
A mightily expensive deck that has the unmistakable feel of real
quality. It’s startlingly better than previous LP12 turntables.
Speed 33⅓, 45, 78rpm Size (hwd) 14 x 45 x 36cm

WIRELESS SPEAKERS

FREE YOUR MUSIC WITH ONE OF THESE STREAMING WONDERS

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 ₨4495

Best portable wireless speaker under ₨5000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★
If you want a travelling companion you can rely on, this portable,
rugged and durable speaker is a great-sounding option.
Size (hw) 10.5 x 9.5cm Battery 13 hours

Apple HomePod Mini ₨9900

Best home wireless speaker under ₨10,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
It’s much smaller and more affordable than expected, but the
most surprising thing about the HomePod Mini is its superb sound.
Size (hw) 4 x 14cm Battery No

80 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

JBL Flip 5 ₨8699 WIRELESS SPEAKERS CONTINUED

Best portable wireless speaker under ₨10,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ “JBL’s latest offering
A simple, portable Bluetooth speaker that sounds as good as ₨8000 can sounds great and
buy. An impressively weighty performance, and overall solid sonic chops. is an excellent
Size (hwd) 8.4 x 9.8 x 9.8cm Battery 12 hours proposition for
the money”
Sonos One SL ₨21,999
“The sonic
March 2020 ★★★★★ performance,
A Sonos One without the smarts, the SL (unlike the Play:1) will pair with streaming options
a One to make a stereo pair – but it sounds great as a standalone as well. and app support
Size (hwd) 16 x 12 x 12cm Battery No are among the best
we’ve tested at
JBL Charge 5 ₨14,999 this level”

Best portable wireless speaker under ₨15,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ “When it comes to
The Charge 5 is as good a sound as you can get in a portable speaker for rugged, portable,
under £200. It improves sonically and aesthetically over its predecessor. no-nonsense
Size (hwd) 9.6 x 22 x9.4cm Battery 20 hours Bluetooth speakers,
some product lines
Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 ₨27,520 have consistently
impressed us”
Reviewed online, 2018 ★★★★★
The rugged, weather-proof Megaboom 3’s sleek design and “An enthusiastic
improved sound are worth your time, especially at under ₨30,000. sound that favours
Size (hwd) 23 x 9 x 9cm Battery 20 hours excitement while
still keeping an eye
Audio Pro A10 ₨36,996 on balance”

February 2019 ★★★★★ “It snaps along with
A brand-new cylindrical design, but underneath that trendy outfit that same intensity
is the hugely enjoyable sonic character that we love from Audio Pro. and intelligent
Size (hwd) 19 x 14 x 14cm Battery No organisation we’ve
come to expect”
Audio Pro Addon C3 ₨25,350
“By multi-room
Best home wireless speaker ₨20,000-₨25,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ speaker standards,
A smaller version of the talented and similarly-featured C5, this petite this is a remarkably
Audio Pro sets itself apart by being battery-powered and portable. refined
Size (hwd) 12 x 22 x 14cm Battery 15 hours performance”

JBL Xtreme 3 ₨21,999 “The Xtreme 3
proves to be careful
November 2021 ★★★★★ and considerate from
A solid and sturdy product that should cope with anything you throw at it – the lowest of lows to
but it also harbours a surprising level of sophistication and sound quality. the highest highs”
Size (hwd) 14 x 30 x 14cm Battery 15 hours
“We notice sonic
AudioPro Addon C10MkII ₨53,850 gains through the
low end afforded by
Best home wireless speaker ₨50,000-₨55,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ the updated bass
The update to the three-time Award-winning Audio Pro C10 gets port design”
AirPlay 2 and Google Cast to complete a multi-room home run.
Size (hwd) 17 x 32 x 18cm Battery No “The A6 will stream
pretty much
B&O BeoPlay A6 ₨69,990 anything from
anywhere and in
February 2016 ★★★★★ any way you like”
Oozing style and substance, the A6 effortlessly combines the simplicity
and convenience of a one-box system. It’s a job fully well done. “The overall
Size (hwd) 30 x 54 x 16cm Battery No presentation is
muscular but lean;
Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation ₨1,25,000 there’s plenty of bass
weight, but balance
Best home wireless speaker over ₨55,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ is never skewed”
The greatest value here is not found in the features or design, but in a sonic
performance that will effortlessly dispense of any one-box rival near this price. November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 81
Size (hd) 17 x 14cm Battery No Voice assistant Siri

WIRELESS SPEAKERS CONTINUED “The Wedge isn’t
afraid to let you hear
Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge ₨₨1,25,000 the truth. Vocals
are clear, textured
November 2019 ★★★★★ and emotive”
The B&W Formation Wedge offers the kind of detailed, balanced, cohesive
sound that cannot be ignored – making it a class-leader in its category. “Musicality is
Size (hwd) 26 x 28 x 26cm Battery No still at the heart
of the Mu-so 2’s
Naim Mu-So 2 ₨2,00,000 performance as
a soundbar”
September 2019 ★★★★★
We’re surprised just how much sonic progression the Naim Mu-so 2 brings “The Series 3
over the original – Naim says that 95 per cent of the Mu-so 2 is new. may not look like
Size (hwd) 12 x 63 x 26cm Battery No it, but make no
mistake, this is
Linn Series 3 ₨TBC proper hi-fi”

April 2020 ★★★★★ “Its sonic
The most expensive wireless speaker we’ve ever tested also happens to performance makes
be the best. It’s hardly a bargain, but we are left convinced of its appeal. it worthy in isolation”
Size (hwd) 30 x 25 x 21cm Battery No
“The soundstage
Amazon Echo Plus (2018) ₨11,990 is spacious and
impressively
January 2019 ★★★★★ organised, with
The 2nd-gen Plus is Amazon’s flagship smart speaker, and it finally vocals given plenty
has the sonic talents to match its smarts – especially at this price. of breathing room”
Size (hwd) 15 x 10 x 10cm Battery No Voice assistant Alexa
“The Megablast has
Sonos One ₨21,999 no problem filling up
our medium-sized
Awards 2017 ★★★★★ listening room with a
Essentially a Play:1 with Alexa. The odd software niggle at launch, sound that demands
but one of the best wireless speakers around just got smarter. your attention.”
Size (hwd) 16 x 12 x 12cm Battery No Voice assistant Alexa
“It’s capable of going
Ultimate Ears Megablast ₨21,200 loud, and remains
composed, clear and
February 2018 ★★★★★ unflustered, even at
Featuring Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant in a portable speaker, the maximum volume”
Megablast is Ultimate Ears’ most energetic and controlled speaker yet.
Size (hwd) 24 x 9 x 9cm Battery 16 hours Voice assistant Alexa

Apple HomePod ₨19,900

April 2018 ★★★★★
It works best if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, but nevertheless it’s
the best-sounding, most music-orientated smart speaker available.
Size (hd) 17 x 14cm Battery No Voice assistant Siri

Headphone jargon busted

What’s the difference between the 2. Supra-aural or on-ear designs tend to be 4. Open-back headphones are vented designs
various on-ear headphones? smaller and lighter than circumaural models that allow sound out through apertures in each
Our jargon buster explains the and, as the name suggests, they sit on your ears earcup, reducing internal sound reflections
rather than over them. Some listeners find them and helping to create a more natural listening
various types, and why you might lighter and easier to wear for extended experience. More sound will leak out into the
want to choose one particular listening, but they do tend to allow in more surrounding environment, and you’ll also
model over another sound from outside. suffer more ambient noise intrusion.

1. First, the most popular headphone design: 3. Available in both circumaural and supra- 5. Semi-open headphones, as the name
the over-the-ear model, also called aural types, closed-back headphones implies, combine the characteristics
circumaural. These cup your ears completely, are the optimum choice for cutting out of both closed and open-back
usually with semi-air-tight earcups that help external sounds altogether. They’ll designs. When done well, they can
minimise both sound leakage from your also deliver more bass weight than be a ‘best of both worlds’ solution,
headphones into the outside world and the other headphone types,because the but equally, they can often fall
intrusive effects of ambient noise. closed earcups prevent bass leakage. between two stools.

82 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

BE S TBUYER’S GUIDE HOME CINEMA
BUYS
HOME CINEMA AMPLIFIERS
The only products
worth considering POWERFUL SOUND THAT TRULY BRINGS MOVIES TO LIFE

Denon AVR-X2700H ₨1,11,900

December 2020 ★★★★★
Sonic improvements over its predecessor are marked, even if it’s the 8K
passthrough and next-gen gaming tech that steal the headlines.
Power 7 x 150W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 6/2

Denon AVC-X3700H ₨1,64,900

Best home cinema amplifier under ₨1,65,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The best unit we’ve heard with a three-figure price tag. A surprisingly big
improvement on its already excellent predecessor; sets a new standard.
Power 9 x 180W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 8/3

Denon AVC-X6700H ₨3,39,900

Best home cinema amplifier ₨3,00,000-₨3,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Want to future-proof your set-up for the 8K content due to arrive within
the five or ten year lifespan of your next amp? This Denon is a winner.
Power 11 x 140W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 7/3

JBL Synthesis SDR-35 ₨TBC

Best home cinema amplifier over ₨3,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The JBL Synthesis SDR-35 is an extraordinarily good home cinema receiver.
In terms of sound quality, it’s in a whole different league.
Power 7 x 100W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 7/3

PROJECTORS

BECAUSE A MASSIVE PICTURE IS HOME CINEMA

Optoma UHD40 ₨TBC

Awards 2019 ★★★★★
A ‘4K’ projector that brings top-tier technology to a budget price
point, this device boasts punchy colours and insightful detail.
Throw ratio 1.21:1-1.59:1 Inputs HDMI x2, VGA, 3.5mm Speakers Yes

Epson EH-TW7100 ₨1,37,999

Best projector under ₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The Epson EH-TW7100 stretches the limit of what can be considered a
budget big screen device, but it more than justifies its price.
Throw ratio 1.32-2.15:1 Inputs HDMI x2, USB 2.0 x2 Speakers Yes

LG CineBeam HU80KSW ₨3,24,000

December 2019 ★★★★★
An all-in-one, do-it-all 4K portable projector that does its thing with
aplomb. You can have the CineBeam up and running in a matter of minutes.
Throw ratio 1.3:1 Inputs HDMI x2 Speakers Yes

November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 83

PROJECTORS CONTINUED

Epson EH-TW9400 ₨2,77,800

Best projector ₨2,50,000-₨3,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The perfect compromise if you want a super-sized faux-4K picture
on a budget. The picture vibrancy and sense of depth are impressive.
Throw ratio 1.35-2.84:1 Inputs HDMI x2, USBx2 Speakers No

Sony VPL-VW290ES ₨4,60,000

October 2021 ★★★★★
The successor to our Award winner, and spectacular with it, this is a great
reminder of why it’s worth paying a premium over the pixel-shifting machines.
Throw ratio 1.38-2.83:1 Inputs HDMI x2 Speakers No

JVC DLA-N5 ₨5,99,999

Best projector over ₨5,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Even at this price, this JVC projector is a bargain. It offers a decent
slice of the range-topping performance at a fraction of the cost.
Throw ratio 1.36-2.75:1 Inputs HDMI x2 Speakers No

SOUNDBARS & SOUNDBASES

A BRILLIANT WAY TO IMPROVE YOUR TV’S SOUND

Yamaha YAS-207 ₨32,990

Best soundbar under ₨35,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
The latest in a series of fine Yamaha soundbars, this is a compelling,
class-leading performer in a practical, easy-to-use package.
Size (hwd) 6 x 93 x 11cm Inputs Opt, HDMI, 3.5mm, BT Sub Yes

Sonos Beam (Gen 2) ₨51,999

Best soundbar under ₨55,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
A compact soundbar that pumps out an exceptional sound for its
size and price. Now with Dolby Atmos capabilities. Impressive.
Size (hwd) 7 x 65 x 10cm Inputs Optical, HDMI ARC, AirPlay Sub No

Yamaha YSP-2700 ₨98,000

February 2017 ★★★★★
With a spacious, involving sound the YSP-2700 is the most convincing
surround experience you’ll get outside of a full 5.1 surround system.
Size (hwd) 5 x 94 x 15cm Inputs HDMI x3, opt, coax Sub Yes

Dali Katch One ₨87,000

Best soundbar ₨50,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2018 ★★★★★
Great for music, even better for films, this tidy soundbar delivers
all the sound your living room is likely to need.
Size 7 x 86 x 17cm Inputs HDMI, Optical, 3.5mm Sub No

Dali Kubik One ₨1,17,000

Awards 2018 ★★★★★
A gorgeous and complete package, Dali’s debut soundbar impresses with its
hugely engaging sound and smart, well equipped exterior.
Size (hwd) 15 x 98 x 10cm Inputs Line-in x2, optical Sub No

Sonos Arc ₨99,999

Best soundbar ₨50,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The Arc is a stunning performer, delivering one of the most immersive
Dolby Atmos experiences we’ve heard from a soundbar.
Size 9 x 114 x 12cm Inputs HDMI, Optical, ethernet Sub No

84 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

SOUNDBARS & SOUNDBASES CONTINUED

Sony HT-A7000 ₨1,49,990

Best soundbar ₨1,00,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
A powerful, musical and immersive single soundbar that succeeds
where even many multi-speaker systems fail.
Size (hwd) 8 x 130 x 14cm Inputs HDMI x2, opt, USB Sub No

Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar ₨1,99,990

Best soundbar over ₨1,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
This is the best soundbar we’ve tested, and the best way to get surround
sound into your room without filling it with loads of individual speakers.
Size (hwd) 14 x 127 x 17cm Inputs HDMI x4, opt, RCA line in Sub No

SPEAKER PACKAGES

GOOD SURROUND-SOUND IS A MOVIE-MAGIC MUST

Wharfedale DX-2 ₨TBC “It has all the
detail, attack and
Best speaker package under £500, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ deftness to deliver
Wharfedale delivers movie magic on a small scale with this enjoyable, exhilaration in
well integrated package that’s perfect for smaller rooms and budgets. spades”
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 12 x 31 x 12cm Finishes 2
“This compact set
Q Acoustics 3010i 5.1 Cinema Pack ₨1,26,900 really hits the spot
with its great clarity,
Best speaker package ₨1,00,000-₨1,50,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ integration,
The subwoofer needs a bit more kick, but this fantastic sub-₨1.5 lakh 5.1 expression and
package delivers a clear, well-balanced and expressive performance. ample bass weight”
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 15 x 43 x 22 cm Finishes 4
“The Wharfedale
Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 HCP ₨1,01,000 Diamond 12.1 HCP is
essentially the
Best speaker package ₨50,000-₨1,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ Audrey Hepburn of
Large enough to provide cinematic scale with a wide soundfield, but home theatre
affordable enough to be accessible, this is a fine choice for music and film. speaker packages”
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 15 x 43 x 22 cm Finishes 4
“The wide dispersion
Sony HT-A9 ₨1,69,990 of the HT-A9’s
speakers is instantly
January 2021 ★★★★★ striking and
Successfully combines the ease and streaming features of a soundbar with undeniably effective”
the consistency and immersion of a traditional surround package.
Size (hwd) Speakers 31 x 16 x 15cm Finishes 1 “It’s worth stressing
just how talented
Q Acoustics 3050i 5.1 Cinema Pack ₨1,69,000 the 3050i 5.1
Cinema Pack is. It’s
Best speaker package ₨1,50,000-₨2,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ an instant hit”
Add in floorstanders to the above, and this speaker package hits the
sweet spot with an infectiously musical and powerful performance. “This may be the
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 15 x 43 x 22 cm Finishes 4 easiest ₨2.5 lakh
you’ll ever spend”
Monitor Audio Bronze B5 AV ₨2,59,996
“What’s astonishing
Best speaker package ₨2,00,000-₨3,00,000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ is the realism of the
This classy speaker package from Monitor Audio is beautifully designed, soundscape – a
has ample punch, creates a spacious soundfield and is very musical. delightfully balanced
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 17 x 46 x 19cm Finishes 4 audio image that
lets the equipment
Elac Debut 2.0 5.1 Home Theatre System ₨1,47,000 melt away”

October 2019 ★★★★★ November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 85
This Elac package is a real match-winner, whether for your two-channel
or the full surround. You’ll be hard pushed to find better at this price.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 18 x 54 x 22cm Finishes 1

SPEAKER PACKAGES CONTINUED “There’s surprising
authority and power
Dali Oberon5 5.1 ₨2,43,000 to this relatively
diminutive package
Best speaker package over ₨2,00,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ as well…”
These are clever performers: lean, attractive, interesting and unfussy.
And those words stand for both the aesthetics and the acoustics. “If you have the
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 44 x 30cm Finishes 4 space, then you
should consider
KEF Q350 AV 5.1 ₨3,28,000 opening your home
to this outstanding
January 2018 ★★★★★ KEF package”
It takes up a fair bit of space, but the Q350 package puts in a powerful
and precise performance. You’ll struggle to do better for the money. “Rarely are we so
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 21 x 63 x 30cm Finishes 2 fully behind a
speaker package
Monitor Audio Silver 200 AV12 ₨4,41,000 for its work both
in stereo and in
Best speaker package over ₨4,00,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ surround sound”
A little patience may be required, but once it hits its stride the
Silver 200 AV12 is an expressive, fun and talented speaker package. “For small to
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 45 x 20cm Finishes 6 medium-sized
rooms, we can
ATC C1 5.1 ₨TBC think of no
better alternative”
Awards 2016 ★★★★★
We’d like a bit more authority in the bass, but we’re delighted by the “The greater insight
detailed, agile sound, focused surround steering and power on offer. and texture make this
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 41 x 28cm Finishes 2 one of the most
lifelike reproductions
PMC Twenty5.23 5.1 ₨TBC of the human voice
at this price”
Best speaker package over ₨5,00,000, Awards 2019 ★★★★★
Analytical and fun in equal measure, this gorgeous PMC system – also our
current reference speaker package – is entirely worth the high asking price.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 17 x 55 x 31cm Finishes 4

VIDEO STREAMERS

DON’T RESTRICT STREAMING TO A LAPTOP – GET IT ON THE TELLY

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ₨4499

Best video streamer under ₨5000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
Despite some caveats, this 4K device supports all HDR formats
and delivers excellent picture quality for a very affordable price.
Resolution 2160p, 1080p, 720p Storage 8GB 4K Yes

Apple TV 4K ₨18,900

Best video streamer over ₨15,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
It has a fantastic UI and design, a huge library of 4K HDR content, and
the best picture and sound performance at any price. Siri is useful, too.
Resolution 2160p, 1080p, 720p Storage 8GB 4K Yes

Sony PlayStation 5 ₨49,990

Online ★★★★★
The PS5 has some unexpected tricks up its sleeve that make it feel like a real
generational upgrade - and there’s a cheaper option without discdrive.
Resolution 4K, 120fps Storage 825GB SSD

XBox series X ₨49,990

Online ★★★★★
It feels more like a refinement than a true generational leap, but the Xbox
Series X is still an excellent 4K gaming machine.
Resolution 4K, 120fps Storage 1TB SSD

86 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

TELEVISIONS “Shows a level of
maturity, confidence
MAKE THE FOCUS OF YOUR ENTERTAINMENT HUB A GOOD ONE and understanding
of the many elements
Samsung UE43AU7100 ₨38,990 that go into
producing a truly
Best 40-43in TV, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ satisfying TV picture”
Samsung’s miniature hero proves you don’t need a bottomless bank account
or a cavernous room to enjoy great picture quality. “Not only is the Tizen
Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution 4K ARC/eARC eARC operating system
smart, intuitive and
Samsung UE50TU8500 ₨49,990 snappy, it also boasts
the most complete
Best 48-50in TV under ₨50,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★ selection of apps
“What’s the best TV I can buy for ₨50k?” It’s a question to which there’s a available anywhere”
new answer: the best TV you can buy for ₨50k is the Samsung UE50TU8500.
Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView “This is not a
downgraded
LG OLED48CX ₨1,38,120 flagship TV – it’s
a downsized
October 2020 ★★★★★ flagship TV”
The first 4K OLED smaller than 50 inches also happens to be the very
best TV smaller than 50 inches that we’ve ever tested. “It’s a punchy
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD performer in its own
right, often
Sony XR-55A80J ₨2,49,900 producing more
impactful peaks than
Best 55-58in TV, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ the LG C1”
It’s almost as good as the awesome A90J and a whole lot more affordable,
and that makes the Sony A80J / A84J an absolutely brilliant buy. “There’s impressive
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K ARC/eARC eARC overall contrast on
offer here, too. The
Sony XR-65X90J ₨2,39,900 set may not go
perfectly black, but it
Best 65in TV under ₨2,50,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ goes very bright”
It’s perfectly reasonable to go for a TV that’s a little less premium but 10in
bigger. If that’s the choice you make, the X90J demands your attention. “It’s a beautifully
Type LCD/LED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K ARC/eARC eARC vibrant and solid
image with lots
LG OLED65C1 ₨3,59,990 of detail and
excellent contrast”
Best Gaming TV, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
You can get a better LG OLED in the form of the G1, but it’s a struggle to “It quickly becomes
justify the extra £500. Right now, this is one of the best TVs you can buy. clear that this is a
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freesat/Freeview HD massive upgrade in
real terms, too”
Samsung QE65QN95A ₨2,41,990
“There’s an extra
May 2021 ★★★★★ lusciousness and
Samsung’s first Neo QLED is a force to be reckoned with, and the greatest nuance to the colour
threat yet to the dominance of OLED. palette that makes
Type QLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD things look that bit
more organic and
LG OLED65GX ₨3,99,990 true to life”

July 2020 ★★★★★ “This fabulous TV
LG has managed to improve picture quality in a few key areas, with dark manages an
detail, colour richness and motion handling all getting a worthwhile boost. awesome sense
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freesat/Freeview HD of scale, but with a
crispness of detail
Samsung QE85QN900A ₨13,49,990 we’d associate with a
smaller 4K set.”
Best 8K TV, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Samsung doubles down on 8K by adding Neo QLED backlighting to create a November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 87
set that’s impossible to ignore. At last, a super hi-res TV we’d like to own.
Type Neo QLED HDMI 2.1 4 Resolution 8K Tuner Freesat/TV Plus

BE S TBUYER’S GUIDE PORTABLE
BUYS
HEADPHONES
The only products
worth considering BIN THE BUNDLED BUDS AND
INVEST IN BETTER SOUND

SoundMagic E11C ₨2499

Best wired in-ear headphones under ₨2500, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
The latest version of Soundmagic’s budget in-ears continues to
impress with a full-bodied, energetic and informative sound.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.2m

Beyerdynamic Soul Byrd ₨6699

April 2019 ★★★★★
You’ll struggle to find a better pair of in-ear headphones costing
less than ₨7000 than these Beyerdynamics.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.2m

Sennheiser Momentum M2 IEi ₨6999

Best in-ears ₨5000-₨10,000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★
You wouldn’t think anything so small could sound quite so good – not
for just ₨7000. But they are wonderfully smooth, expressive and balanced.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.3m

Klipsch T5M Wired ₨10,350

Best wired in-ear headphones ₨10,000-₨15,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Not only do they have some of the most comfortable tips around,
but these T5M Wireds also show a maturity that’s rare at this price.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.3m

Shure Aonic 3 ₨17,999

Best wired in-ear headphones over ₨15,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Breathtakingly musical and comfy to wear, the Shure Aonic 3s set a new
benchmark for in-ear headphones at this level.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.2m

Sony WI-1000X ₨14,999

February 2018 ★★★★★
The best of both worlds thanks to great sound and fine noise-cancelling
capabilities. Absolutely worth your time and money.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1m

Shure KSE1500 ₨2,19,990

November 2016 ★★★★★
At this price they won’t be for everyone, but they are the finest in-ears
we’ve heard and arguably one of the best headphones money can buy.
In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.3m

AKG Y50 ₨5499

Best portable on-ear headphones, Awards 2019 ★★★★★
Our Product of the Year cans for 2019 are portable on-ears, and deliver
a rhythmic, clear, detailed, dynamic sound. At this price they’re amazing.
Type Closed Connection 3.5mm Weight 190g

88 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022

Austrian Audio Hi-X15 ₨11,600 HEADPHONES CONTINUED

Best wired on-ear headphones under ₨15,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★ November 2022 | What Hi Fi? | 89

An analytical pair of headphones, but they still manage to make music
entertaining – they extract bags of detail but keep the soul of your music intact.
Type Closed Connection 3.5mm Weight 255g

Austrian Audio Hi-X50 ₨25,439

May 2021 ★★★★★

If you’re looking for well-designed wired on-ear headphones for portable or
domestic use, these Austrian Audios should be at the top of your shortlist.
Type Closed Connection 3.5mm Weight 285g

Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 ₨24,990

Awards 2018 ★★★★★

We love the design, but it’s more than just pretty – these Momentums
are comfortable on your ears and fold away neatly when not in use.
Type Closed Connection 3.5mm Weight 240g

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X ₨28,999 NEW
ENTRY
February 2022 ★★★★★

If you’re looking for a quality pair of headphones at this price, put these at
the top of your shopping list. Once you have a listen you’ll be glad you did.
Type Open Connection 3.5mm Weight 345g

Beyerdynamic Amiron ₨41,999

Best wired on-ear headphones over ₨40,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★

Beyerdynamic has produced a pair of headphones that sound as good
as they feel. Be careful though; their open-backed nature leaks sound.
Type Open Connection 3.5mm/6.3mm Weight 340g

Audio Technica ATH-W1000Z ₨62,446

March 2017 ★★★★★

The 11th version of the W1000z opts for evolution over revolution and
with a spacious sound that packs power and punch, it’s a good choice.
Type Closed Connection 6.3mm Weight 320g

Beyerdynamic T1 (3rd Generation) ₨84,999

February 2021 ★★★★★

The latest T1 over-ears are a step up in performance and compatibility from
their predecessor; among the best headphones at this price.
Type Open Connection 3.5mm/6.3mmWeight 360g

Sennheiser HD820 ₨1,89,990

October 2018 ★★★★★

Probably the best-sounding closed-back headphones we’ve heard.
They have lots of detail, plenty of punch and a strong bass performance.
Type Closed Connection 4.4mm/6.3mm/XLR4 Weight 360g

Focal Utopia ₨2,99,999

June 2017 ★★★★★

With these cans Focal has aimed for the moon and reached it,
delivering one of the finest pairs of headphones we’ve heard.
Type Open Connection 6.3mm Weight 490g

Sennheiser HD 250 BT ₨3990 NEW
ENTRY
February 2022 ★★★★★

Underestimate these headphones at your peril. Sennheiser’s ultra-affordable
and durable headphones do not disappoint sonically for the price.
Controls Yes Battery 25 hours

HEADPHONES CONTINUED

Google Pixel Buds A-Series ₨9999

October 2021 ★★★★★
Everything their pricier Pixel Buds 2 provided as far as smart abilities go, but
with a performance that stands up with the best in the market at the price.
Controls Yes Battery 5 hours (plus 19 hours via charging case)

AKG Y400 ₨17,065

Best wireless headphones under ₨20,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
If it’s an affordable, portable pair of energetic wireless on-ears
you’re after, the AKG Y400s are currently unbeatable.
Controls Yes Battery 20 hours

Cambridge Audio Melomania 1 ₨tbc

Best wireless in-ears £75-£150, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
These budget-conscious in-ears offer a cohesive, expansive and rhythmically
driven sound, and an intuitive, playful soundstage that few match at this price.
Controls Yes Battery 9 hours

Sennheiser Momentum M2 IE Free ₨14,990

Reviewed online, 2018 ★★★★★
These wireless in-ears continue the Momentum range’s fine
reputation by delivering a comfortable sound packed with insight.
Controls Yes Battery 6 hours

Jaybird Vista ₨23,141

December 2019 ★★★★★
Ideal for runners, the fit is the best we’ve yet tested. These
are a front-runner in the niche, true wireless sport category.
Controls Yes Battery 16 hours

Sony WF-1000XM4 ₨24,990

Best wireless earbuds over ₨20,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
Given all the design changes and new features in these earbuds, it must have
been a real challenge to get them right. But Sony has absolutely nailed it.
Controls Yes Battery 8 hours

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds ₨26,990

February 2021 ★★★★★
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds deliver an energetic, balanced sound and
brilliant noise-cancelling. A serious candidate for best-in-class.
Controls Yes Battery 6 hours (18 with case) Noise-cancelling Yes

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 ₨24,990

Best wireless in-ears over ₨20,000, Awards 2020 ★★★★★
These Sennheisers are among the most refined-sounding wireless earbuds
we’ve tested - if your budget can stretch this far, you won’t be disappointed.
Controls Yes Battery 7 hours (28 with case) Noise-cancelling Yes

Sony WH-1000XM4 ₨29,990

Best wireless headphones ₨25,000-₨30,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
We weren’t sure if Sony could improve on the XM3s, but somehow the
WH-1000XM4s have managed it; a serious hike in quality for the money.
Folding Yes Battery 30 hours Noise-cancelling Yes

Apple AirPods Max ₨54,900

Best wireless headphones over ₨30,000, Awards 2021 ★★★★★
There’s no denying that they cost a lot more than typical products in this class
but, if sound quality is king, there’s equally no denying that they’re worth it..
Folding No Battery 20 hours Noise-cancelling Yes

90 | What Hi Fi? | November 2022



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