What Hi-Fi

ROUND-UP

View online review £169
whf.cm/WF-1000XM3

SONY
WF-1000XM3

F  ew pairs of headphones were as TECH SPECS hours of playback as standard, while the The controls take a little time to get
eagerly anticipated as the Sony Bluetooth case has enough power for an extra three used to, particularly as it’s a small target
WF-1000XM3 true wireless version 5.0 charges, giving a total of 24 hours using for your fingers to aim for, but thankfully
earbuds. Their predecessors, the Noise-cancelling Bluetooth and noise-cancelling, rising to you don’t have to tap the pad right in the
WF-1000X, launched in 2017, were a Yes 32 hours with noise-cancelling off. middle to get a reaction. The volume can
superior alternative to the distinctly Voice control Siri, There’s no battery indicator on the case, be controlled through the touchpads by
average Apple AirPods of the time. But Google Assistant but the red LED light on the front blinks enabling the feature in the Headphones
now, with no shortage of wireless Battery life 6 if it doesn’t have enough juice to charge Connect app and assigning the function
headphone options, manufacturers have hours (with ANC), the headphones fully. to an earbud.
to work extra hard to stand out from the 24 hours (with
crowd. The Sony WF-1000XM3s manage case) The Sony Headphones Connect app Power and poise
to do that for all the right reasons. Weight 8.5g gives a little more control over some of
(each) the functions of the WF-1000XM3. You Play Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car and the
Sony has swerved the bullet-like can see the battery level of each earpiece Sony WF-1000XM3 create a wonderfully
appearance of some wireless in-ears and and the case, alter the built-in equaliser musical sound. Instruments sound
shied away from the hanging teardrop and flip the functions of the touch natural, believable and just as
designs. You can see a strand of DNA controls – useful for left-handers. We captivating as her emotive vocal. There’s
from the original WF-1000X, but the would experiment with the DSEE HX subtlety in spades as the bass notes of
WF-1000XM3, available in either Black sound processor, which can be switched the track rise and fall in intensity. As the
or Platinum Silver, are a new design. on or off. We prefer the extra sparkle drum kit explodes into life, the Sonys
music seems to have with it on, although aren’t afraid to deliver each thwack with
Twist and lock battery life takes a bigger hit. the kind of power and poise you’d expect
from on-ear headphones.
The outer section of each earpiece is Sony has done a decent job of
smooth plastic with a small, touch- implementing the touch controls. Out of We try the Sonys with video content
sensitive circular patch on the surface of the box, the left control pad is for turning from Netflix, BBC iPlayer and YouTube
both buds that act as control pads. Sony noise cancelling on/off and engaging the and find no lip-sync issues with Top Gear
provides seven different sizes of earbud; Ambient Sound mode. Tap and hold to as the headphones capture the excitable
four ‘hybrid silicone’ buds and three engage the Quick Attention feature, yelps of comedy duo Paddy and Freddie.
‘triple-comfort’ buds. The headphones allowing you to hold a conversation
enter the ear at a slight downward angle; without having to pause your music. Sony has really pulled something
you then have to twist them up to lock special out of the bag with the WF-
them in place. They are a comfortable fit The right pad is for playback controls. 1000XM3s. They sound excellent,
– the intrusion is kept to a minimum, but Single tap to play/pause, a double tap battery life is up there with the best and
the wearer still feels nicely isolated. skips forward and triple hit skips back. they not only pack in active noise-
Tap and hold to start a conversation with cancelling, but also execute it well.
At the heart of each earpiece lies a your virtual assistant of choice – Siri and
Sony QN1e HD noise-cancelling Google Assistant are supported. The touch controls take a bit of getting
processor. It’s virtually identical to the Alternatively, removing one of the used to, and it would be nice to support
chip found in the Award-winning Sony earpieces automatically pauses what aptX HD Bluetooth, but apart from that,
WH-1000XM3 over-ear headphones. you’re playing. Place it back in your ear you can’t get a more musical and
Sony claims this chip delivers a 40 per and it picks up where you left off. engaging performance from a pair of true
cent increase in noise-cancelling quality, wireless earbuds.
compared with the WF-1000X.
RATING
It uses 24-bit processing and claims to
bring greater efficiency to the SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
headphones, allowing for better battery COMFORT • Musical sound • No aptX HD The WF-1000XM3
life. The chip acts not only as the BUILD • Good noise- true wireless
noise-cancelling processor, but also support earbuds combine
handles DAC and analogue amplification cancelling effective noise-
duties. The Sonys support SBC and AAC • Excellent cancelling with a
codecs, but not aptX HD Bluetooth. sense of musicality
battery life
As is the norm with true wireless • Snug fit
earbuds, the Sony WF-1000XM3s come
with their own charging case – a chunky
case with a striking copper-coloured top.
Sony has made big strides with the
WF-1000XM3’s battery life. There’s six

48 www.whathifi.com

PREMIUM IN-EAR HEADPHONES

View online review £219
whf.cm/Elite85t

JABRA
ELITE 85t

T  his is not an easy time to launch a TECH SPECS Each earbud has three mics. One The midrange showcases the simple
pair of premium true wireless Bluetooth governs active noise-cancellation of effortlessness of the vocal nicely, with
in-ears, so if you’re going to version 5.1 external sound, another does the same plenty of fine detail revealed to make
compete with the likes of Apple, Bose, Noise-cancelling for sound from inside the ear, and the sure the singer’s character is never in
Sennheiser or Sony, you’d better have Yes third looks after telephony and doubt. The 85t don’t exactly attack a
some serious performance up your Voice control Siri, interaction with voice assistants, tune, but they are revealing – minor
sleeve. Jabra has been delivering true Google Assistant including Siri and Google Assistant. harmonic variances in the midrange are
wireless in-ears that have been there or Battery life 5.5 picked up on and fully described.
thereabouts for a while now, so is the hours (with ANC), Jabra’s ‘Sound+’ app is one of the
Elite 85t the pair with which it forces its 25 hours (with better examples of its kind. Here, you At the top end, there’s the same
way to the front of the pack? case) can adjust the amount of active reticence, the same unwillingness to
Weight 7g (each) noise-cancellation from ‘blanket of properly drive a tune forwards. It is a
True wireless earbuds are one of the isolation’ to ‘mild amplification of question of personal taste as to whether
few product types where ‘less’ is ‘more’ external sound’. There’s some EQ you find this trait detracts from the
and, in this respect, the Elite 85t have adjustment here too, and a thorough listening experience or whether you
less on their side. They’re usefully hearing test to help the 85t adjust their enjoy its calm, unthreatening nature.
smaller than many price-comparable levels to best suit your hearing profile.
rivals and, at 7g, they’re hardly a burden Squashed dynamics
to wear – and that’s even before you The functions of the control buttons
consider how nicely ergonomic the can be defined in the app too. Rather The Jabras prove quite easy to fluster, as
shape is. A choice of variously sized than the more common capacitive a once-through of Pixies’ The Holiday
silicon eartips helps get the 85t in place touch-surface used by most rivals, the Song shows. In an effort to stay in
and, once in situ, they stay snug and Jabras have an actual button – that control, the 85t squash the song’s wide
comfortable for hours on end. makes for greater positivity when issuing dynamics. Combined with the earbuds’
commands, but putting pressure on the reluctance to allow the tune’s drive and
That’s doubly handy because, despite earbud can easily alter their fit. attack proper expression, the result is a
their diminutive size, the 85t feature a neutered facsimile of a turbulent song.
respectable battery life of five hours, The Jabras use Bluetooth 5.1 for
with another 20 hours provided by the wireless connectivity – there’s no aptX The active noise-cancelling proves
equally compact charging case. Contrast nor aptX HD, but 5.1 alone is more than effective at all but its most aggressive
this all-in stamina of 25 hours or so with sufficient to get some hi-res audio files setting. Here, there’s no doubting the
the 18 hours of the Bose QuietComfort on board. And with an MQA-powered Jabras’ ability to exclude external noise,
Earbuds, and the Bose have even less Tidal Masters file of Marvin Gaye’s Mercy but it thickens and blunts the sound.
excuse for being so relatively huge. Mercy Me playing, the 85t don’t take long
to establish themselves as a balanced The Jabra Elite 85t fall into the ‘good,
Charging is via USB-C or a Qi wireless and reasonably sophisticated listen. not great’ category. They have many
charging mat and the Jabras will run for a strengths and a couple of significant
whole hour after just a 15-minute blast. There’s decent weight and substance weaknesses. A bigger problem, though, is
at the bottom of the frequency range to the quality and the sheer number of
Carefully constructed underpin the recording nicely, but bass rivals. In sonic terms, you can certainly
sounds aren’t the most disciplined – and do better, so unless you value the size
It’s not easy to make a product feel that can impact on the tune’s and comfort of the 85t above all else,
premium and fit for purpose while trying momentum and rhythmic balance. we’d advise you to shop around.
to make it as small and light as is
realistically possible, but Jabra has RATING
managed it. On the outside, the Elite 85t,
available only in ‘titanium black’, look SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
like a carefully constructed product. COMFORT • Smooth, mature • Lack dynamic They aren’t without
BUILD talent, but in the
As is only right and proper at this sort sound and rhythmic face of strong
of money, Jabra has piled on the features. • Compact and expression competition, the
As far as sound goes, each earbud is • ANC can affect Jabras come up a
fitted with a 12mm full-range driver. comfortable sound quality little short
That’s pretty big by in-ear standards, and • Good battery life • Bettered by rivals
quite startling in the context of the 85t’s
dimensions. The overt promise is of
full-range sound – so Jabra has
incorporated pressure-relief vents into
the design to prevent low frequencies
generating too much pressure in the ear.

www.whathifi.com 49

ROUND-UP

View online review £240
whf.cm/EAH-AZ70W

TECHNICS
EAH-AZ70W

G  iven Technics’ commitment to TECH SPECS of the Sony WF-1000XM3 and optimise the airflow generated from the
the headphone market since its Bluetooth Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 driver, with the aim of delivering a
resurrection in 2014, the brand’s version 5.1 earbuds respectively. If you are after a spacious sound with deeper bass.
entrance into the popular true wireless quick fix, a 15-minute fast charge
earbuds world was inevitable. Its debut Noise-cancelling provides 70 minutes of playback. What strikes us about the EAH-
buds have arrived in the form of the Yes AZ70Ws’ sonic character is their
Technics EAH-AZ70W, which are aimed Voice control Technics has created its own noise- openness and how deep in the bass they
at the more discerning end of the market. cancelling technology, called Dual go. With Mac Miller’s What’s The Use?,
Alexa Hybrid Noise-Cancelling Technology, the defining bassline is not only
They also feature noise-cancelling Battery life 6 which adds digital processing to the deep-rooted but also deft and defined,
functionality, built-in Alexa voice control traditional analogue feedback method. It the Technics capturing its playfulness
and a decent battery life; but do they hours (with ANC), is handled by three microphones in each and the way it drives the track forward.
have what it takes to beat the best-in- 18 hours (with earbud, blocking unwanted noise both
class Sennheiser Momentum True case) inside and outside the headphones. It It’s not too overpowering either, the
Wireless 2 and Sony WF-1000XM3? Weight 7g (each) significantly reduces, but doesn’t silence, midrange is solid and punchy and has a
background chatter and road noise. good level of detail. His vocal delivery
Reliably tasteful looks sounds soulful and buoyant in the
The Technics Audio Connect chorus and full of his distinctive quips
The EAH-AZ70W don’t look too much companion app offers the means to during the rapped verses, while the
different to the competition, with a adjust noise-cancellation – helpful if accompanying beat is suitably snappy.
curvaceous, elongated shape. They are you’re after a diluted effect – and is also
about 2cm deep, so should nestle into where you can activate Ambient Mode, Insightful character
your ear canal without protruding much. which amplifies external noise so you
We find their fit light, comfortable and can hear traffic noise or train The EAH-AZ70W’s space, solidity and
secure. They have the reliably tasteful announcements. The app also lets you insight are worthy of their price, but they
look of a Technics product, thanks to select sound modes, view battery status, don’t quite manage to outpoint the
their smart brushed-aluminium look. An and help find your misplaced buds by Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2,
IPX4 rating means they shouldn’t be revealing their last known location. which have a greater articulacy and
spoiled by a splash of rain or sweat either. dynamic expression. Listen to a live
To improve the connection stability, recording of Fink’s Trouble’s What You’re
The Technics branded circular plates Technics has chosen to keep the left and In, and while the Technics compel with
provide a decently sized area to control right earbuds independent. Each their incisive and insightful character,
playback. Tapping either earbud once receives a signal from the music source, the Sennheisers draw you into the track
pauses or plays a track and answers rather than one bud passing the signal to more by revealing greater nuances – the
phone calls, but each bud has its own the other channel in the more common subtle discrepancies in finger-plucking
specific set of controls too. Touching and master and slave configuration. and variations in vocal inflections.
holding the left earbud launches your
phone’s voice assistant, while the right The buds use newly developed 10mm The Technics aren’t the best-value
earbud cycles between noise-cancelling dynamic drivers with graphene-coated noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds
on, off and ambient sound. diaphragms that increase their strength out there, but they are still entertaining
and high and midrange frequency to listen to, comfortable to wear and
Quickly tapping the left earbud twice performance. An acoustic chamber pleasant to use. For that reason, they
or three times decreases or increases inside each earbud has been designed to should be on your shortlist.
volume respectively, while the same
gestures on the right earbud skip forward RATING
or backwards a track. We can’t fault the
accuracy, though you do have to be fairly SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
precise in your taps to avoid confusion. COMFORT • Solid, punchy and • Not the last word The EAH-AZ70Ws
BUILD are fine performers,
You can do away with touch controls spacious sound in sonic subtlety but they are up
altogether thanks to built-in Amazon • Excellent bass against some
Alexa support. Pair the Technics to your tough competition
Amazon account within the Alexa app response
and you can control playback and get • Comfortable and
hands-free answers to your questions.
easy to use
Battery life is around 18 hours from a
single charge (six from the buds, 12 from
the USB-C charging case), which is
adequate in practical terms, though less
than the 24 and 28 hours’ playback time

50 www.whathifi.com

PREMIUM IN-EAR HEADPHONES

£249

View online review
whf.cm/AirPodsPro

APPLE
AIRPODS PRO

A  pple claims its original AirPods TECH SPECS The biggest change here is, of course, Apple has taken the same approach
are now the world’s most popular Bluetooth Yes noise cancelling. Each Pro has two with the Pros as with other products,
headphones. But, despite this, Noise-cancelling microphones, one on the outside to favouring clarity and a neutral tonal
the one-size-fits-all approach means that Yes detect incoming noise that can be balance rather than lots of weighty bass.
for some people they simply don’t fit at Voice control Siri cancelled out by anti-noise, and one on However, the performance alters slightly
all. Apple has sought to address this Battery life 5 the inside that detects any noise that when noise-cancelling is switched on.
issue with the AirPods Pros, which sit hours, 24 hours makes it through the seal and also Playing R.E.M.’s Belong via Tidal, we
above the existing AirPods. By (with case) analyses how your music is responding notice that ‘Off’ produces a slightly
combining the magic of the original Weight 5.4g to the individual geometry of your ear. tonally richer and rhythmically crisper
AirPods with active noise-cancelling, (each) performance. There’s an extra warmth to
Apple hopes to have another hit on its The noise cancelling is adjusted 200 Michael Stipe’s deep, spoken vocals and
hands. While the AirPods Pros aren’t the times per second – Apple claims these more texture to that bubbling bassline.
best sounding noise-cancelling in-ears, are the only headphones to take this
they are still a joy to own and use. approach. It is effective, more or less The AirPods Pros don’t quite match
eradicating constant noises and reducing the sound quality of the Sony WF-
Less conspicuous looks office chatter to a whisper. 1000XM3, which are that bit more
dynamic and attacking. The Pros counter
While there’s no denying the similarities Apple has ignored the trend for with an easy-going nature that ensures
between the 2nd-gen AirPods and the noise-cancelling modes, with the even low-quality Spotify streams sound
AirPods Pros – the glossy white finish, exception of the ‘Transparency’ mode, acceptable. The Pros also combine the
protruding stem and bulbous body – which actively allows sound in from the directness inherent in the design with a
there are clear differences, too. Most outside world. There seems to be a slight spaciousness that allows instruments to
obvious is the silicone tip of the new enhancement to midrange sounds, breathe. There isn’t lots of bass, but they
AirPods, which is shorter than on many which helps you hear voices, but it’s so avoid sounding lightweight. The AirPods
in-ear headphones and elliptical rather subtly done that it never feels anything Pros really shine in the midrange, with
than round. Though the main body is other than completely natural. vocals reproduced with plenty of texture
chunkier, the stem is shorter, making the and detail. There’s sparkle in the treble,
AirPods Pros look less conspicuous. Siri, at a pinch but no hint of brightness sneaking in.

The controls have been moved to the The Pros support Apple’s voice assistant, Switch on Noise Cancellation or
stems, which now contain force sensors. Siri, which can also be activated by Transparency and there is a small step
A quick squeeze on either stem pauses pinching the buds. In fact, Siri is the only down in sound quality with a touch of
or resumes a track, a double-squeeze method for adjusting volume without sibilance in the vocals and a slight lack of
skips forward, a triple-squeeze skips reaching for your phone. Other brands tonal warmth in the bass. Significantly,
back and a long squeeze switches have managed to squeeze volume timing takes a bit of a hit, which means
between noise-cancelling modes. The controls into true wireless earphones tracks can lose a bit of overall impact.
squeezes are fiddly to perform, and we wish Apple would do the same.
particularly when exercising, which you The AirPods Pros can’t quite match the
can do with the AirPods Pros thanks to Battery life is a claimed five hours for best-in-class noise-cancelling true
their sweat- and water-resistance. the earphones with another 19 hours wireless headphones for sound quality,
from the charging case. If the earphones but the user experience and level of
The AirPods Pros stay in our ears when run out, five minutes back in the case comfort still make them a strong option.
running during testing. They are so light will give you another hour of listening.
(5.4g each) and comfortable that they
can give the impression of not being RATING
secure, but they refuse to budge in
action. Apple supplies just three pairs of SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
tips, though the pre-attached, medium- COMFORT • Exceptionally • Noise-cancelling The AirPods Pro
sized pair should fit most people. BUILD can be beaten for
comfortable impacts timing sound, but they are
Click on the AirPods Pros in the • Strong noise- • Sony rival sounds a joy to live with
Bluetooth menu of your iPhone and and use all day,
you’ll find an ‘Ear Tip Fit Test’ that, when cancelling more engaging every day
tapped, plays five seconds of music that’s • Balanced, easy-
analysed to identify any sound leakage.
Get a green ‘Good Seal’ result and you’re going sound
ready to go, but if the Pros identify an
issue you’ll be prompted to try the bigger
or smaller tips.

www.whathifi.com 51

SATURDAY
24 APRIL

2021

Discover the latest in Hi-Fi and Home Cinema

Hosted by the number one hi-fi and home cinema website, the What Hi-Fi? Virtual Show will
showcase the world’s most important consumer electronics brands and their newest products.

With exclusive interviews, seminars and Q&A sessions, it’s a truly unmissable event.

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WHAT’S THE NEXT BIG HOW TO UPGRADE THE FUTURE OF
THING IN HI-FI? YOUR HI-FI SYSTEM HOME CINEMA

The key trends, technologies, Make your existing music system What’s next for surround sound?
products and brands that will sound as good as it possibly can We discuss how next-gen audio will
shape the hi-fi market over the
with these tips and tricks. shape your home cinema.
coming years.
Ketan Bharadia Dan Sung
Becky Roberts

10 NEW PRODUCTS AND HOW TO GET THE BEST THE 10 BEST
TRENDS TO LOOK OUT SOUND FROM YOUR PRODUCTS IN THE
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PREMIUM IN-EAR HEADPHONES

£249

EARBUDS

T  he Bose QuietComfort Earbuds TECH SPECS and hold your finger on the touchpad of The sense of enthusiasm and excitement
take the legendary line into the Bluetooth the right earbud to access voice conveyed by the Bose buds is highly
world of true wireless earbuds, version 5.1 assistants or decline a call. Double-tap to infectious. There’s power, poise and a
where they go toe to toe with some Noise-cancelling play/pause and answer. Touch and hold fantastic sense of dynamism. Bass notes
established rivals, such as the Sony Yes your finger on the left earbud to skip a go deep but the QuietComfort Earbuds
WF-1000XM3, Apple AirPods Pro and Voice control Siri, track or check the battery level. You can still squeeze out lots of detail. The Bose
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2. Google Assistant control volume by swiping up or down sound is full of natural warmth and
Bose has launched noise-cancelling Battery life 6 along the right earbud. richness, but the music never sounds
in-ears and true wireless headphones hours, 18 hours smothered – even with the noise-
before, but this is the first time it has (with case) The QuietComfort Earbuds use four cancelling on its highest setting.
combined the two technologies. Weight 8.5g mics to help with call quality and they
(each) work well to keep your voice sounding Life and soul of the party
With plenty of tech to pack into the clear. But do they deliver Bose’s
QuietComfort Earbuds, the buds are trademark, excellent noise-cancelling? The QuietComfort Earbuds can be the
pretty stocky in appearance. The life of the party when the track warrants
earpieces don’t protrude massively from Bose has designed these in-ears to be it, but they’re also versatile enough to
your ears, but the main body of the as flexible as possible, so you can set allow the emotion and more subtle
headphone is curved, so it blends in them up to cancel noise based on your elements of a track to leave their mark.
easier to the side of your head. personal preferences. In the Bose music
app, you’re presented with a noise- Play Dave’s BRIT Awards 2020
Our review pair came in a creamy cancelling sliding scale from zero to ten. performance of Black and the Boses
Soapstone finish, but there is also this You can assign three different positions convey the drama and emotion of the
Triple Black option. Even some premium as ‘Favourites’ and cycle through them occasion perfectly. The vocal sounds
wireless earbuds can feel a bit cheap, but by double tapping the left earpiece. pained and poignant while the strings
not these Boses. The smooth outer and piano are natural and believable.
surfaces of the earpieces feel tactile, Experiment with the different levels There’s a richness to the sound that
while the glossy plastic used for the and you’ll hear them cutting out huge draws you in, and lyrics flow effortlessly
driver enclosure is robust. The winged swathes of background noise when on as the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
eartips boast a smooth, matt finish, the maximum setting. Conversely, if you keenly extract every last ounce of detail.
which helps the impression of quality. want more of the outside world to seep
in, the headphones adapt perfectly. Take The Sennheiser True Momentum
There’s a choice of small, medium and an earbud out to have a conversation and Wireless 2s have a slight edge in terms of
large tips, but the edges are generously the Bose buds don’t just pause playback, dynamics and timing, however the Bose
sized, so it’s easy to get a good seal. The they automatically cut the noise- headphones boast superior noise-
Boses feel lightweight and we have no cancelling in the earbud left in your ear cancelling, which could swing things in
issues listening for a few hours at a time. so you can hear more clearly. their favour. The pressure was on Bose to
For the commute or exercise session (the produce something special – and it hasn’t
QuietComforts are sweat and weather- That excellent noise-cancelling also disappointed. The QuietComfort
resistant) they are great to live with. allows the Bose’s superb sound quality Earbuds are great all-rounders, capable
to shine through unmolested. We kick of impressive musicality and topped off
Battery life is a claimed six hours from things off with a spot of uplifting drum with excellent noise cancelling. They’re
a single charge, with an extra two and bass in Delta Heavy’s White Flag VIP, more than a match for any rival.
charges from the case making 18 hours in and from the first beat we are captivated.
total. A 15-minute quick-charge should
give you a couple of hours if you’re RATING
caught short, and there’s the option of
using the supplied USB-C cable or any SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
Qi-certified wireless charging mat. COMFORT • Exciting, • Average With their energetic
BUILD sound and brilliant
The charging case is a chunky affair, entertaining sound battery life noise-cancelling,
but at least it feels solid and built to last. • Superb balance these buds are a
You need to press a button on the front • Impressive noise- serious candidate
to gain entry and a row of LEDs on the for best in class
front of the case shows you how much cancelling
battery life is left inside.

When first using the QuietComfort
Earbuds, open the case and have the
Bose Music app to hand. You’ll be
prompted to pair and guided through all
the key features. By default, you touch

www.whathifi.com 53

ROUND-UP

View online review £250
whf.cm/GT220

GRADO
GT220

W  e’re surprised Grado didn’t TECH SPECS At least aptX Bluetooth assists in Listening to James Carr’s Pouring
find a way to make its first pair Bluetooth delivering impressive battery life Water On A Drowning Man confirms the
of true wireless earbuds version 5.0 numbers. Despite their compact Grados are more adept at extracting the
open-backed; even it has had to sacrifice Noise-cancelling dimensions, the earbuds can hold up to nuance from a singer than most rivals.
a principle or two in order to join the No six hours of power – and the equally But the GT220 overplay their hand a
ongoing true wireless earbuds land-grab. Voice control Siri, compact charging case holds another little when it comes to the top of the
With the GT220, Grado has delivered a Google Assistant five full charges. So, a competitive 36 frequency range. At some point
visually unremarkable and predictably Battery life 6 hours between case charges is ‘assertive’ becomes ‘overconfident’, and
configured pair of earbuds that go hours, 36 hours achievable. The case can be charged the GT220 could do with backing off
without some features, such as active (with case) using either a USB-C cable or any their attack just a touch.
noise-cancellation or a control app, and Weight 5g (each) Qi-certified wireless charging pad, and
slapped a premium price tag on them. from ‘flat’ to ‘full’ takes a couple of hours. An already trebly recording such as
Can such a small, unassuming product Saint Etienne’s Only Love Can Break Your
really be worth big money? Get the GT220 satisfactorily Heart can eventually become a little
positioned in your ears and it doesn’t tiring in the Grados’ hands, especially if
The GT220 are small and light – just 5g take long for them to reveal what they’re you’re listening at significant volume.
per earbud – but their polycarbonate all about. Like many a pair of Grado
housing is unyielding to the touch and headphones, the GT220 are unequivocal. Hanging together
doesn’t make the Grados feel like a
premium product. Despite following the Once through a song as familiar as This high-end exuberance contributes to
established ‘twist and lock’ fit template, Fleetwood Mac’s You Make Loving Fun their slightly disjointed way with timing.
the GT220 are less than straightforward (as an MQA-powered Tidal Masters The overall sound of the GT220 hangs
to get into position. There’s a choice of stream) is enough for the GT220 to give a together pretty well – but they don’t
just three sizes of eartips, but even if one full account of themselves. The overall render the momentum and drive of
fits properly, getting the in-ears sitting sound is clear, detailed and direct. The music with the same finesse as the
comfortably and securely proves tricky. bottom of the frequency range may not Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2.
have quite the impact the best of their Both the broad and low-level harmonic
Perseverance brings its rewards, rivals can offer, but it’s filled with dynamics of Telemachus’s Caroline What
though: once the GT220 are in position, information concerning texture and Is Wrong With You are described in full,
they turn out to be nice and stable. The timbre. There’s an immediacy to the way with a kind of casual authority. The same
fit provides a little passive noise- they serve up the tune that sets them tune allows the GT220 to showcase their
blocking, too, which is welcome given apart from the majority of their rivals. out-and-out scale and insight.
the lack of active noise-cancellation.
Higher up, the midrange is treated The Grado GT220 don’t look or feel
Precise construction with similar attention. Detail levels particularly premium, and they go
remain high – even minor transient without some of the specification you
Grado knows what it is doing when it details are picked up on and described. might reasonably expect at this price.
comes to build quality. The material may Clarity is impressive too, and as the They’re not the most accomplished
not feel luxurious, but it is resilient, and GT220 establish a reasonably broad and listen where timing or top-end
everything is constructed with complete deep presentation, a vocalist has the refinement is concerned; but if you enjoy
precision. Each earbud has a capacitive whole of the midrange in which to your music upfront, detailed and
touch-surface, beneath the big, stylised stretch out and do their thing. immediate, you’ll find much to like here.
‘G’ logo that lights up. It’s responsive,
reliable and covers every major function. RATING

The Grados are compatible with both SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
Siri and Google Assistant, and though COMFORT • Positive, • Lack a little sonic The GT220 have
there is only one mic in each earbud, BUILD some areas of sonic
there’s nothing wrong with call quality or unequivocal sound refinement expertise, but they
voice assistant comprehension. • Good battery life • Don’t look or feel aren’t quite the no-
• Responsive touch brainer we might
On the inside, the GT220 are fitted special have wished for
with a single 8mm full-range driver in controls • No active noise-
each earbud. Bluetooth connectivity is
via aptX, which is fine for getting hi-res cancelling
audio files on board without fuss, but we
wonder why the premium price tag
doesn’t stretch to aptX Adaptive
compatibility – is no-one likely to watch
video content with their GT220?

54 www.whathifi.com

PREMIUM IN-EAR HEADPHONES

View online review
whf.cm/MomentumTW2

SENNHEISER
MOMENTUM TRUE
WIRELESS 2
£279
T  he original Sennheiser True
Wireless headphones arrived in TECH SPECS disables the active noise-cancelling. No element sounds rolled off, with
2018, delivering a balanced sound, Bluetooth Turn the volume down by pressing and highs and lows dispatched with equal
a decent smattering of features and good version 5.1 aptX holding on the surface of the left earbud force. With high frequencies, the True
battery life in a solid, if pricey, package. Noise-cancelling or turn it up by following the same Wireless 2s sound more composed than
The second generation of wireless Yes procedure on the right earpiece. the Sonys and beat the Apple AirPods
earbuds promises improvements but, Voice control Siri, Pros hands down. With the help of the
with new rivals from the likes of Apple, Google Assistant You can configure your own control noise-cancelling, they’re able to dig out
Sony and Samsung, the question is Battery life 7 presets on the app, which is a good way an impressive amount of detail.
whether Sennheiser has done enough. hours, 28 hours to squeeze extra functionality out of the
(with case) headphones and handy if you have The Sennheisers also show good
The Momentum True Wireless 2 boast Weight 6g (each) become used to a different control control over low frequencies. Play Kanye
a few aesthetic differences from their set-up. The app also allows you to see West’s Welcome To Heartbreak and the
predecessors. The earpieces have been the amount of battery left, as a single pounding bassline sounds powerful and
trimmed down slightly, making them figure rather than an individual authoritative with no fat around the
more svelte and a little less bulky in your percentage for each bud. edges. Each drum thwack sounds taut,
hand and your ears. Fitting is still a case precise, and drizzled with texture. The
of sliding them in, then twisting to lock Sennheiser’s fabric-covered charging WF-1000XM3, though, have the edge
them into a decent seal. case returns for the second-gen model. It when it comes to rhythm and timing,
carries 21 hours of charge and has an LED capturing the stop-start momentum of
They’re smaller and protrude less than indicator on the front that changes the track with greater accuracy and
the Sony WF-1000XM3, but the new colour depending on the amount of juice delivering it with greater aplomb.
Momentums feel more comfortable over left in the earbuds or the case.
long listening sessions than the originals. Comes at you loud and clear
There are four pairs of silicone eartips in The buds are good for around seven
the box, plus a short USB-C charging hours from a single charge (up from four The Sennheiser character works well
cable. A selection of foam tips would be on their predecessors), although with video content via YouTube and
nice, especially at this price, but we don’t noise-cancelling drains the battery Netflix too. Watching Stranger Things,
have any trouble getting a good seal. The quicker. The battery life compares well you can hear the detail in each explosion
tips also click into place effortlessly, with that of the Sony WF-1000XM3 (six from the initial impact to the subtle fizz
making switching them around painless. hours, plus 18 from the case) and the as it dies out. Dialogue comes at you
Apple AirPods Pros (five hours, plus 19). loud, clear and with no lip-sync issues.
The outer surfaces of each earpiece
once again double as touch controls that We play Vampire Weekend’s Diane The Sennheiser Momentum True
can be used to carry out various Young, and the Sennheisers get off to a Wireless 2 have evolved just as we
functions, from controlling playback to great start. Drums are thwacked with a hoped. They are more comfortable and
activating Google Assistant or Siri. suitable amount of power, but they are nicer to use than their predecessors,
taut and controlled with a fine sense of battery life is better and noise-cancelling
Sucks the outside world precision and focus. There’s plenty of is now included. We could happily listen
space in the soundstage as the guitar and to them for hours on end without
The big news for the Momentum True percussion jostle for position. This can reaching for the pause button. If your
Wireless 2 earbuds is the addition of come across as rowdy and raucous budget allows, your ears will be
active noise-cancelling. You can hear the through lesser earbuds, but here it handsomely rewarded.
benefit – turn it on and it sucks out the sounds refined and mature.
rumbling and background chatter of the
outside world. To toggle the noise- RATING
cancelling on or off, you can use the
touch-sensitive controls or flick the SOUND FOR AGAINST VERDICT
switch in Sennheiser’s Smart Control COMFORT • Refined, • Relatively pricey If your budget
app, which is worth dipping into. BUILD • Timing can be stretches this far,
mature sound these are one
Here, you can customise those touch • Lightweight and bettered the most refined-
controls to carry out a range of functions. sounding pairs of
The left touchpad handles playback comfortable buds we’ve tested
– one tap to play/pause, a double-tap to • Nice to use
skip forwards and a triple-tap to skip
back. A similar combination of taps on
the right earbud enables the voice
assistant, turns the Transparent Hearing
(ambient noise control) on and off, or

www.whathifi.com 55

TEMPTATIONS EXPENSIVE, YES. BUT YOU Image: Stax
KNOW YOU WANT THEM

Stax
SR-L700
Mk2 /
SRM-700T

Electrostatic headphones/energiser
£1195 headphones
£2895 energiser

56 www.whathifi.com

T E M P TAT I O N S

Electrostatic
headphones require
an energiser – here
it’s the SRM-700T

SOUND Ask any seasoned audiophile about high-end headphones “These headphones aren’t
and it won’t be long before the name Stax is mentioned. discreet and they make us
FEATURES The company launched the world’s first electrostatic look more like Cybermen
headphones in 1960, laying the foundation for a richly than we’d care to, but they
BUILD deserved and glittering reputation that continues to this day. are wonderfully comfortable”

FOR We’re talking about headphone royalty here, and having The open-backed design leaks sound like a sieve and
• Breathtaking spent some considerable time in the company of the provides no meaningful isolation from our surroundings,
SR-L700 Mk2/SRM-700T, we can understand why. but it prevents our ears from getting hot over longer
clarity and detail listening sessions. And, let’s not forget, there’s the sonic
resolution There are two parts to these headphones – the SR-L700 advantage an open design brings.
• Class-leading Mk2 headphones and the partnering SRM-700T energiser
transparency that drives them. Stax makes a range of energisers, so Build quality is good, though it would be a stretch to call
• Open and spacious there’s a choice of partner for any of the company’s the SR-L700 Mk2s luxurious. They’re all about functional
presentation headphones. You can’t use a conventional headphone engineering, with materials chosen to do a specific job
amplifier with electrostatic headphones, though, as the rather than to impress by their appearance or feel.
AGAINST voltages required are far higher than usual. Alongside the lovely soft leather on the headband and
• Sound lacks a earpads, there’s more plastic used here than we would have
STAY AT HOME expected. But it all seems fit for purpose and saves on
bit of drama weight over the metal alternative.
One look at these headphones will tell you they are strictly
VERDICT for domestic use. Their design is simply too large and The SRM-700T energiser is a more conventional design
If you’re looking cumbersome for portable use, and the need for an energiser than the headphones, but that doesn’t make it ordinary. It’s
for high-end means that mains power is a must. a nicely made box with an immaculately finished front
headphones, this panel and a rather workmanlike casing. It all feels solid and
Stax pairing has to If you think the SR-L700 Mk2 headphones look old built to last, though. The unit gets pretty warm over
be heard. It’s fashioned, we can’t blame you. To our eyes, there’s little
astonishingly good difference between these and the original SR-Lamda model
in so many areas the company made back at the end of the 70s.

These headphones aren’t discreet; they don’t blend in
and make us look more like Doctor Who Cybermen than
we’d care to, but they are wonderfully comfortable. At a
touch over 370g, they’re fairly light for high-end
headphones and those bluff-looking rectangular earpieces
fit our ears well, having just the right amount of padding to
make a good seal.

www.whathifi.com 57

T E M P TAT I O N S

IN DETAIL…

Electrostatic driver technology
means that the diaphragm is driven
across its surface rather than just at
one point, as in a conventional cone
unit. This gives much-reduced
distortion and improved precision

An electrostatic driver While this drive unit may not
uses very high voltages. look particularly impressive,
That’s the reason the there’s decades of development
SR-L700 Mk II needs a here that results in a brilliant-
dedicated energiser sounding product
rather than a conventional
headphone amp

“The results are staggering. This pairing You’ll find a pair of five-pin headphone outputs on the
delivers one of the most detailed SRM-700T’s front panel and a split volume control that
performances we’ve ever heard” allows for channel balance. It’s all pretty straightforward
and we’re up and running in minutes. The supplied
extended use, so you’ll need to put it somewhere where headphone cable is 2.5m long and a flat and flexible design,
there’s plenty of ventilation. but take care not to crease it.

Stax makes two versions of this product. The one on test There’s no DAC inside the SRM-700T, so we add a Chord
here has a hybrid circuit that uses a custom-made low-noise Hugo 2 into the signal path when we listen to the music on
dual FET on the input and a pair of 6SN7GTB valves in its our MacBook Pro laptop. The laptop is loaded with
output stage. Its sibling, the identically priced SRM-700S, Audirvana music-playing software and packed with hi-res
substitutes the valves for JFETs in the output stage. files, as well as having Tidal access. We also use our
reference Naim ND555/555 PS DR music streamer to hear
The SRM-700T has two inputs – the choice is either what the Stax sounds like with a money-no-object source.
balanced XLR or standard RCA. A rotary dial on the back
panel switches between the two. It would probably make DETAIL THERAPY
more sense if this control were moved to the front.
Either way, the results are staggering. This Stax pairing
There’s also a volume bypass if you want to integrate delivers one of the most detailed performances we’ve ever
your headphone listening into the main stereo system, heard. It sounds so clean and precise that we can take apart a
though that involves leaving the energiser in the signal complex recording such as Radiohead’s In Rainbows without
path between the source and your main amplifier. effort. Every note and sound is crisply defined and can be
tracked with ease. If analysis is your thing, your search can
just stop right here – you’ve found your Golden Fleece.

There’s an impressive degree of agility and it’s matched
with clarity that’s utterly convincing. Thom Yorke’s vocals
come through with subtlety and texture. We can feel every
word, as his passion flows on the sparse and haunting

58 www.whathifi.com

T E M P TAT I O N S

The SRM-700T
offers balanced
XLR and standard
RCA inputs

“Tonally, the Stax combo
is mighty convincing.
Compared with this, just
about every conventional
dynamic driver-equipped
headphone we’ve heard
comes across as unbalanced
and lacking in transparency”

A flat headphone Videotape. The result is as natural and unforced as we’ve In our experience, no product is perfect and that remains
cable attaches to heard in a pair of headphones. The scary thing is that this the case here. There are areas where, for all its electrostatic
the bottom of each headphone/energiser pairing isn’t even the best the brilliance and individuality, the SR-L700 Mk2/SRM-700T
of the earcups company can do. pairing could do better.

EFFORTLESSLY SPACIOUS While they set class-leading standards in detail
resolution, clarity and articulation, these headphones also
We switch to Stravinsky’s The Rite Of Spring and are fall behind conventionally designed open-backed rivals,
transported to the concert hall. As with all headphones, such as Grado’s GS300e and Focal’s Utopia, when it comes
there’s no true stereo image – the vast majority of to dynamic punch and rhythmic drive.
recordings are engineered to be heard with speakers placed
in front of the listener, rather than on either side of the Music that should thrill, whether it’s Stravinsky or
head – but we still enjoy a wonderfully open and spacious Radiohead’s 15 Step, tends to become something to dissect
presentation. There’s an unusual sense of ease as the music and study. For all its excellence, the final result is a little
becomes demanding; it’s as though the Stax combo doesn’t clinical. But, equally, if you want to hear every shred of
even need to work hard to achieve its stellar results. information in a recording, we haven’t come across a better
way to do it, regardless of price.
Dynamic shifts are rendered in a smooth and fluid
manner and we’re struck by the pairing’s refinement. It is A CLEAR TRADE-OFF
insightful enough to show every flaw in the recording but
refuses to over-emphasise those shortcomings. This Stax pairing is breathtaking in so many ways. It’s an
astonishing performer that stomps all over its rivals when it
Tonally, the SR-L700 Mk2/SRM-700T combo is mighty comes to naturalness and resolution. Yet, the electrostatic
convincing. While it doesn’t sound ruler flat, it does have a technology that gives it so many advantages has certain
wonderful consistency from the lowest frequency upwards weaknesses, and that allows conventional rivals to move
that sounds incredibly natural. Compared with this, just ahead in other areas.
about every conventional dynamic driver-equipped
headphone we’ve heard comes across as unbalanced and But that can’t take away from the fact that, given a
lacking in transparency. suitable recording, the results from this Stax SR-L700 Mk2/
SRM-700T combo can be little short of magical.

www.whathifi.com 59

TEMPTATIONS Images: Copland

Copland
CSA 100

Integrated amplifier
£3988

A wide range of
connectivity is on
offer – along with
a phono stage

60 www.whathifi.com

T E M P TAT I O N S

“It makes class leaders such as Rega’s Naim ND555/555PS DR music streamer and Technics
Aethos and Naim’s SuperNait 3 sound SL-1000R/Goldring 2400 record player, but also draft in an
a little uneven in comparison” Apple MacBook Pro loaded with Audirvana music software
and plenty of hi-res music. Cyrus’s CDi integrated CD player
SOUND Copland is one of the unsung talents of the high-end also sees some use. Of course, you don’t need to go to the
industry. Despite being in business for almost 40 years, the extremes of the Naim or Technics to appreciate the Copland,
FEATURES company has rarely grabbed the limelight. But that has but it pays to give it a suitably capable signal feed.
more to do with the way the brand operates than the
BUILD quality of its products. If Copland’s use of a valve leads you to expect a
stereotypical warm and comfortable presentation you’ll be
FOR This small Danish company makes only a limited range of disappointed. The CSA 100, just like every other Copland
• Sonic transparency electronics (often valve-based) and goes about its business product we’ve heard, doesn’t do that. This is one of the most
• Clarity and detail in an understated manner. Products’ life cycles tend to be neutral-sounding amplifiers we’ve heard at this price. It
• Agile and long, so new introductions are rare and done with little makes class leaders such as Rega’s Aethos and Naim’s
fanfare. So, when a new product does appear we’re keen to SuperNait 3 sound a little uneven in comparison.
precise sound have a listen. In the case of the CSA 100, we’re glad we did.
• Good range SPACE AND SCALE
As far as features go, this integrated could be all the
of features amplifier most music fans will ever need. Despite retaining We listen to the third movement of Mahler’s Symphony No.2
the company’s trademark clutter-free appearance, this and the Copland sounds right at home. It has a spacious
AGAINST elegant design packs in a digital module, headphone output presentation and renders an expansive soundstage. It’s a
• No display to and a phono stage into its well constructed chassis. nicely layered image with instruments sharply focused. The
presentation remains stable too, even when the piece
show digital At its core is a hybrid electronic design, which uses a becomes demanding or volume levels rise.
signal resolution single 6922 double-triode valve in the line stage feeding a
• Needs care with high-power MOSFET power-amplifier section. The result is a We’re pleased with the CSA 100’s scale and authority,
headphone solid 100W per channel into an 8 ohm load that rises to a though both the Rega and Naim sound even more muscular
matching healthy 180W as impedance halves. when it comes to punching out crescendos. The Copland
counters with sonic precision and a sense of fluidity that’s
VERDICT Those figures suggest that the CSA 100 will be able to hugely appealing. It’s an impressively detailed performer
The Copland drive most speakers to serious levels in all but the largest of too, picking up low-level instrumental strands with ease.
CSA100 is a well rooms. We try both our usual ATC SCM50s and the more
equipped and price-compatible KEF LS50 Metas without issues. We switch to Björk’s Homogenic set and the differences
impressively between the Copland and its main rivals are clear. This
capable amplifier. There’s an impressive degree of connectivity here. For amplifier is all about clarity. It excels in the subtleties and
It’s one of the class- vinyl fans, there’s a phono stage suitable for moving-magnet displays a level of finesse and sonic sophistication that puts
leaders at this level or high-output moving-coil cartridges, along with a us in mind of far pricier alternatives. It sounds impressively
balanced XLR and three single-ended line-level inputs. natural with Björk’s distinctive vocals, communicating all
the idiosyncrasies that make her delivery such a treat.
As for digital, there’s the usual trio of USB, coaxial and two
opticals. These digital inputs feed an ESS Sabre ES9018 The presentation is nice and open, even with an album as
Reference DAC used in a quad mono configuration to densely produced as this. It’s an organised and entertaining
improve resolution. The use of this chip means the CSA 100 sound that captures the various moods of the album really
is compatible with up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM files and well and displays the kind of transparency that allows you
DSD128. That should be enough to play just about any file to forget the tech and simply sit back and enjoy the music.
potential users are likely to have.
If you value rhythmic coherence and dynamic punch
It’s a shame the amplifier doesn’t have a proper display above all else, its rivals move ahead. It’s not as if the Copland
that shows the resolution of the incoming digital signal. All can’t step onto the dance floor, more that it prefers to stand
we have is a small LED indicating whether it’s DSD or not. on the side and tap its toes.

A USEFUL EXTRA Our view of the amplifier stays positive whether we use
the digital or analogue inputs. The digital module is a good
Unusually for an amplifier of this type, Bluetooth (in aptX one overall, though the USB input loses doesn’t quite match
HD form) is on the menu. It’s a £198 optional extra, not fitted the coaxial or optical when it comes to dynamic expression
to our review sample, and is a box we would tick. It would and overall clarity. We think the module is broadly on a par
bring the convenience of phones, tablets and computers with the better standalone DACs at around the £500 mark.
into the equation, and that can only be a good thing.
The phono stage is good too. It retains much of the insight,
There’s a preamplifier output for those who feel the need agility and energy of the line inputs and doesn’t add too
to add additional muscle, an unattenuated line-out for much in the way of noise. Equally, the headphone output is
recording purposes and a 6.3mm headphone socket. a good one, though its relatively high output impedance of
40 ohms means you’ll have to match with care.
If you want to hear how good this Copland can really
sound you’ll need talented sources. We use our reference Our long serving Beyerdynamic T1 Mk2 (600 ohms) work
really well but the Grado RS1 (32ohms) and Focal Stellia (35
ohms) sound a little uneven.

In summary, the CSA 100 offers an excellent alternative to
the established class-leaders and has an equally convincing
(but different) blend of attributes. Impressive.

www.whathifi.com 61

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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 71
kit you can buy Stereo amplifiers 73
Pre- & power amplifiers 73
From 65in 4K TVs to turntables, and from portable CD players & transports 74
Bluetooth speakers to Dolby Atmos surround DACs 76
sound packages, here’s where you’ll find the Music streamers 77
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Stereo speakers 82
NEW ENTRIES THIS MONTH Systems 83
A warm welcome, please, for three newcomers this Multi-room systems 83
month, two from industry behemoths, and one from Turntables 87
a lesser-known specialist. Apple’s superb, if pricey, Wireless speakers
AirPods Max simply couldn’t be left out, and B&W 89
has continued its successful anniversary upgrades. HOME CINEMA 89
And Moon’s affordable phono stage is a real winner Blu-ray players 90
in our books, too. Home cinema amplifiers 91
Projectors 91
B&W 607 S2 AE, p78 Set-top boxes 92
Another Anniversary Edition Soundbars & soundbases 93
Speaker packages 94
upgrade from B&W – and Video streamers
another welcome winner Televisions 98
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Moon 110LP v2, p107 PORTABLE 103
A quality affordable Headphones 104
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worth checking out Smartphones
Streaming apps & services 105
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106
ACCESSORIES 106
Analogue interconnects 106
AV & hi-fi racks 107
Cartridges 108
Headphone amplifiers 109
Mains products
Phono stages
Speaker cables
Speaker stands

HOW TO POSITION YOUR SPEAKERS
It’s not just a case of ‘plonk ’em down and plug
’em in’; getting your speakers set up properly
can make all the difference to how they sound.
We show you how to get it right on page 81.

TIPS ON USING AMAZON PRIME
Subscribers to this leading video-streaming
service can learn how to get the best out of it
with our guide to its features. See page 103.

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BUYER’S GUIDE HI-FI

BEST AMPLIFIERS
BUYS
THE BEATING HEART OF YOUR HI-FI SYSTEM
The only products
worth considering

Onkyo A-9010 £229 View offers Stereo amps up to £500
whf.cm/BBStereoAmps
Best stereo amplifier under £300, Awards 2017 + + + + + £500 to £1000
www.whathifi.com 71
Our favourite budget amplifier, this is arguably the most entertaining
affordable amp around. It is agile and has a wicked sense of rhythm.
Power 44W Inputs Line-in x5, MM Outputs Headphone

Rega io £379

Best stereo amplifier under £400, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £399

September 2018 + + + + +

A very 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 £499

Best stereo amplifier £400-£600, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £599

Best stereo amplifier £400-£700, 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 £750

Best stereo amplifier £600-£800, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £799

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 £949

Best stereo amplifier £700-£1500, 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

£1000 to £2000AMPLIFIERS CONTINUED

£2000 to £5000Cambridge Audio CXA81 £999

£5000 and aboveBest stereo amplifier £800-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

Naim Nait 5si £1099

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

Moon 240i £1990

Best stereo amplifier £1500-£2500, Awards 2018 + + + + +

A gorgeous piece of kit that puts in a stunningly revealing and
dynamic performance. The Moon 240i is in a class of its own.
Power 50W Inputs Line-in x2, MM, optical x2, coaxial x2 Outputs 3.5mm

Naim Nait XS 3 £2199

Best stereo amplifier £1500-£2500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £2799

Best stereo amplifier £2500+, 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 £2999

Best stereo amplifier over £2500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £3499

Best stereo amplifier over £2500, 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

Leema Tucana II Anniversary Edition £4995

March 2017 + + + + +

It looks no different to its 2010 incarnation, but this remains a
top-class amp that works across a wide range of systems and music.
Power 150W Inputs Line-in x7 Outputs Preamp

Luxman L-509X £8500

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

Audio Research GSi75 £14,998

April 2017 + + + + +

This can stand toe-to-toe with the finest pre/power combos at this
price; it’s a well equipped one-box solution for high-end purists.
Power 75W Inputs Line-in x3, MM, MC, USB Outputs Headphone

72 www.whathifi.com

Burmester 808 MK5 £28,000 AMPLIFIERS CONTINUED Preamplifiers
and power amps
February 2013 + + + + + View offers
whf.cm/BBCDPlayers Up to £1000
Burmester’s masterpiece may be decades old but a string of
upgrades have kept it relevant. Sound quality remains exceptional. www.whathifi.com 73£1000 to £2000
Inputs Line-in, MM, MC (optional) Outputs Balanced, single-ended

Nagra Classic Pre/Power amp £29,000

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

CD PLAYERS & TRANSPORTS

GET THE RIGHT PLAYER AND CD CAN STILL SHINE

Cambridge CXC £299

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 £399

Best CD player under £500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £699

June 2020 + + + + +

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

Cyrus CD t £895

Awards 2015 + + + + +

An exceptionally talented transport, the CD t offers a level of insight,
transparency and clarity you’d struggle to find elsewhere at this price.
Type CD transport Outputs Coaxial, optical

Naim CD5si £1149

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 £1195

Best CD player over £500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £1999

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

£2000 and aboveCD PLAYERS & TRANSPORTS CONTINUED

Marantz SA-10 £5999 View offers
whf.cm/BBDACs
April 2018 + + + + +
Up to £200
One of the best digital source components around. Its unfussy disposition
£200 to £1000allows it to sound at home across a wide range of systems.
Type CD player Outputs Coaxial, optical

Chord Blu MkII £7995

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

DACs

A DIGITAL-TO-ANALOGUE CONVERTER IS A MODERN HI-FI MUST

Zorloo Ztella $99

August 2020 (issue 437) + + + + +

if you want to improve your smartphone sound, but don’t want a USB stick
hanging off the end of it, this is a bit of a no brainer. Online only for now.
Size 11cm long Resolution PCM (up to 384kHz), DSD (up to 5.6MHz), MQA

Cyrus soundKey £99

Best DAC under £100, 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

iFi Zen DAC £129

Best DAC £100-£200, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Compare the iFi with price rivals and it’s clearly up there with the best for
sound quality. But it also offers a degree of versatility that those rivals don’t.
Inputs USB 3.0 Size 3 x 10 x 12cm Res 32-bit/384kHz; DSD256; MQA

Audiolab M-DAC nano £149

Best DAC £100-£200, 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

Audioquest DragonFly Cobalt £269

Best DAC £200-£300, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £399

Best DAC under £300-£500, 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

Audiolab M-DAC+ £695

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

74 www.whathifi.com

DACs CONTINUED

Chord Qutest £1195 £1000 to £10,000

Best DAC £500-£1200, Awards 2020 + + + + + £10,000 and above

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

Chord Hugo 2 £1799

Best DAC over £1200, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

Chord DAVE £7995

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

dCS Rossini DAC/Rossini Master Clock £22,608

July 2018 + + + + +

An expensive DAC/clock combination that justifies its price tag with a
performance of exceptional detail, organisation and fine dynamics.
Inputs Coaxial x2, opt x2, USB x2 Res 24-bit/384kHz

Nagra HD DAC/MPS £23,600

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

How to digitize your vinyl collection Read more at...
www.whathifi.com/features

Turntables might not be Recording software feedback from the speakers. Make sure your
cutting-edge tech, but for their Channel D’s Pure Vinyl offers a great deal records are spotless. Any hisses, clicks and
look and feel – not to mention of flexibility. It features built-in phono pops will be recorded. You can buy software to
thrillingly articulate analogue equalisation, so you can feed the turntable’s edit such sounds but it’s time-consuming and
sound – you can’t beat them. The output straight into the computer without processing could spoil the recording.
only thing your record collection needing a phono stage in the signal path.
lacks is portability, but there is a There are also powerful editing functions that It’s all in the details
way to take those LPs with you aid optimisation. The downside is a price of Storage is affordable, so we’d be tempted to go
around £250 once the trial period is over. down the high-resolution route: 24-bit/96kHz
wherever you go... is the norm for many studios and seems a good
A more affordable alternative is VinylStudio. compromise between quality and memory
What do you need? This includes many of the features of Pure space. It doesn’t really matter whether it’s WAV,
The basic building blocks are: a turntable, a Vinyl, and costs around £20. Another option AIFF or FLAC files as long it’s compatible with
phono stage, an analogue-to- digital converter is Audacity. It’s free and does a good enough what you normally use. Records don’t have
with USB output, and a computer with suitable job. While the interface looks complicated metadata built in such as album art and track
recording software. There are turntables that and some of the editing functions take a while information, so that data has to be manually
come with a phono stage, analogue-to-digital to figure out, spend some time with it and it will entered. The process is fairly tedious, but it
converter and USB output built in. However, become familiar enough. makes it easy to locate tracks. Your computer
most are at the budget end and focus on won’t recognise individual tracks,
getting the job done rather than doing it Patience is a virtue so you’ll have to stop recording when you’ve
particularly well. Before you start, make sure your deck is finished ripping each one and mark tracks that
working optimally as that will aid a better flow into each other.
Your recordings won’t necessarily reflect recording. Is the cartridge tip free from fluff?
the quality of sound possible from your Are the tracking force and bias adjusted
records, though Audio Technica’s AT-LP5 and correctly? Simple checks like these can help.
Sony PS-HX500 vinyl-ripping decks do their Vinyl can be recorded only in real time. If a song
best to buck that trend. If you already have a lasts five minutes, that’s how long it will take.
turntable, the best option is to buy a decent Make sure the player isn’t jostled during the
USB phono stage. We like the £90 Rega Fono recording, and keep the playback volume low
Mini A2D and Pro-Ject also produce decent to reduce any degradation of sound caused by
affordable alternatives.

www.whathifi.com 75

MUSIC STREAMERS View offers
whf.cm/BBMusicStreamers
THE BEST WAY TO SHARE YOUR TUNES AROUND THE HOUSE
£100 to £500
Audiolab 6000N Play £449
£500 to £1000
Best music streamer under £500, Awards 2020 + + + + +
£1000 to £5000
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

Bluesound Node 2i £499

Best music streamer under £500, Awards 2018 + + + + +

Even better than before, this large-scaled, well timed Bluesound
has sensational streaming skills and features for the money.
Outputs Line-in, coaxial, optical, subwoofer

Cambridge CXN V2 £799

Best music streamer £500-£1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

All the success of the classy CXN streamer, with added Google
Chromecast. Great design, features set and performance.
Inputs Coaxial, optical, USB x2

Chord 2go £995

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

Cambridge Audio Azur 851N £1399

Best music streamer £1000-£1500, 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 £1499

Best music streamer £1000-£1500, 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

Moon Neo MiND £1799

Best music streamer £1500+, Awards 2018 + + + + +

An elegant performer that delivers the kind of musical finesse we
rarely hear at this price. You’ll need to factor in the cost of a DAC.
Outputs Coaxial, optical, AES/EBU

Melco N100 £1999

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 £2299

Best music streamer over £1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

76 www.whathifi.com

Technics SL-G700 £2350 MUSIC STREAMERS CONTINUED £1000
to £5000
February 2020 + + + + + View offers
whf.cm/BBInternetRadios £5000 and above
A high quality digital source that covers all the bases – including CD and View offers
SACD to go along with its terrific streaming smarts. whf.cm/BBDABRadios Up to £200
Inputs Coaxial, optical Outputs Line-out, balanced, coaxial, optical
“There’s no doubt £200 and above
Cambridge Audio Edge NQ £3500 the Pure Evoke H2
is an upgrade
March 2019 + + + + + over the D2”

A truly fantastic streaming preamplifier that has a clear, bold and spacious “The Stream 94i
presentation across all its many inputs. And it looks good, too. is the complete
Inputs Line-in x2, balanced XLR, coaxial, optical x2, HDMI, USB x2, BT package, making
it the best radio
Moon 390 £4750 at this price”
“It has a warm,
February 2019 + + + + + welcoming character,
with focus on a rich
A well connected streaming preamplifier that’s uncluttered in design midrange that
and use, and sounds terrifically dynamic, refined and engaging. celebrates vocals”
Inputs Line-in, MM/MC, balanced XLR, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, HDMI x4 “Design, ease
of use, and sound
Linn Selekt DSM £5250 quality – the Revo
has it all”
Reviewed online, 2019 + + + + +
www.whathifi.com 77
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 DS3 £15,800

February 2017 + + + + +

If you want the finest-sounding music streamer on the market and
aren’t afraid of the heavyweight price, then invest your money here.
Outputs Balanced and single-ended XLR

RADIOS

THE ORIGINAL WIRELESS IS STILL GOING STRONG

Pure Evoke H2 £89

Best radio under £100, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Pure’s latest radio is similar to its previous incarnation, but more
refined. The H2 improves on the D2’s already sophisticated sound.
Battery Optional Size (hwd) 18 x 12 x 12cm Inputs 3.5mm

Roberts Stream 94i £189

Best radio over £100, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Sets the bar even higher than its predecessor, adding Bluetooth
without compromising its sound and offering plenty of features.
Battery Optional Size (hwd) 26 x 17 x 13cm Inputs 3.5mm, USB, BT, wi-fi

Roberts Revival iStream 3 £200

Reviewed online, 2018 + + + + +

A lengthy features list – DAB/FM/internet radio, Bluetooth, Spotify, Tidal –
under that vintage design makes for an appealing radio for the price.
Battery Yes Size (hwd) 16 x 26 x 11cm Inputs 3.5mm, USB, BT, wi-fi

Revo SuperConnect £300

Best radio £200+, Awards 2017 + + + + +

Not just a radio, this feature-packed Revo is a streaming music
player that will play just about anything from nearly any source.
Battery No Size (hwd) 18 x 27 x 12cm Inputs 3.5mm, Bluetooth, wi-fi

STEREO SPEAKERS View offers
whf.cm/BBHifiSpeakers
THEY BRING THE MUSIC TO YOUR EARS – SO CHOOSE WITH CARE
“If you’re looking
Standmounts up to £200 Dali Spektor 1 £159 really small
budget speakers,
March 2018 + + + + + buy these”

A small speaker that inherits all the Spektor 2’s good traits, pumping “The way these
out an energetic and entertaining sound for an affordable price. speakers handle
Size (hwd) 24 x 14 x 20cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 dynamics is
impressive”
Dali Spektor 2 £199
“These new
Best standmount speaker under £200, Awards 2020 + + + + + Debuts should be
considered one of
The 2s combine Dali’s traditional strengths with a generous dose of the company’s
entertainment that even Mission and Q Acoustics struggle to match. finest efforts”
Size (hwd) 17 x 28 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2
“Tonally, these are
Elac Debut B5.2 £250 nicely judged and
have a smooth treble
Best standmount speaker £200-£400, Awards 2020 + + + + + that still has plenty
of bite”
ELAC’s latest budget standmounter is talented
enough to worry the established competition. “These boxes are
Size (hwd) 34 x 18 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 1 fun, with a lovely
energetic character
Standmounters from £200 to £500 Dali Oberon 1 £349 that takes a grip of
the listener and
February 2019 + + + + + refuses to let go”

About the size of a shoe, these articulate and bold-sounding “The Q350s
speakers have a wonderfully unfussy nature and are a joy to listen to. display a level of
Size (hwd) 27 x 16 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 clarity and subtlety
unheard of at
Mission QX-2 £399 this price”

Best standmount speaker £350-£500, Awards 2018 + + + + + “It’s as if the old
speakers deliver a
These chunky speakers are hugely enjoyable. Fantastic rhythmic drive and vocal line that slinks
terrific insight (and great finish) make them the best you can buy under £500. away, while the new
Size (hwd) 32 x 22 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 pair’s rendition
hangs in the air
KEF Q350 £499 like a mist”

Best standmount speaker £500-£750, Awards 2018 + + + + + “Given the modest
nature of the changes
KEF has delivered a speaker that’s a cut above the rest, with we weren’t
a sophisticated, insightful presentation that belies its modest price. expecting much
Size (hwd) 36 x 21 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 of a difference in
the sound. We
B&W 607 S2 Anniversary £449 NEW were wrong”
ENTRY
March 2021 + + + + + “They pound out
crescendos with
A cleaner, more insightful and overall more engaging performance from a relish, refusing to
pair of speakers that were already among the best out there for the money. harden or compress,
Size (hwd) 30 x 16.5 x 21cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 even at high volume”

£500 to £1000 B&W 606 S2 Anniversary £599

Best standmount speaker £400-£750, Awards 2020 + + + + +

The original 606s are fine speakers, but this new version is
obviously better across the board.
Size (hwd) 35 x 19 x 30cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3

Revel Concerta2 M16 £999

Best standmount speaker £750-£1000, Awards 2019 + + + + +

One of the best speakers we’ve ever heard below the £1000 mark.
Make sure to partner carefully to get the best out of them.
Size (hwd) 37 x 22 x 27cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2

78 www.whathifi.com

Acoustic Energy AE1 Active £1000 STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED Standmounters from £1000 to £2000

June 2018 + + + + + “Simply put, these Standmounters £2000 and above
AE1s do everything
Active speakers that deliver punch, drive and rhythmic ability. they do with a
They outperform plenty of more expensive hi-fi components. flourish”
Size (hwd) 56.5 x 30 x 33cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2
“We’re soon
KEF LS50 Meta £1000 marvelling at the
Metas’ delicacy and
Best standmount speaker £750-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + + precision. They
sound so much
KEF has taken a terrific speaker and made it even better with its innovative more transparent
Metamaterial tech. The LS50 Metas are now the class leader at this level. than before”
Size (hwd) 31 x 20 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4
“The moment we
Wharfedale Linton £1000 start listening, we
get a brilliant sense
May 2020 + + + + + of scale and space
from the Lintons”
You could listen to these speakers for days and still not get tired. Effortless
weight, spot-on stereo imaging and layer upon layer of marvellous detail. “The KEFs capture
Size (hwd) 30 x 19 x 25cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 Active Yes the natural acoustic
of the recording
KEF R3 £1299 superbly”

Best standmount speaker £1000-£2000, Awards 2019 + + + + + “For small speakers,
they sure belt out a
These KEFs are exceptional. Knocking out the ATCs (below) to take home large and spacious
an Award, these are the most complete speakers at this price. Stunning. soundstage.”
Size (hwd) 42 x 20 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3
“We like the
Dynaudio Xeo 10 £1300 SCM19s’ ability to
render a large
March 2019 + + + + + soundstage and
populate it with well
Pricey, but these versatile active speakers offer fantastic focused instruments”
sound that isn’t compromised by convenience.
Size (hwd) 26 x 17 x 15cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 Active Yes “They sound far
bigger and more
ATC SCM19 £2150 authoritative than a
36cm-high speaker
Awards 2016 + + + + + has any right to”

It’s quite a trick for a speaker to be highly analytical with music, yet “The Response D2Rs
never sound clinical or passionless. But that’s the case with the SCM19s. are wonderfully
Size (hwd) 44 x 27 x 30cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 expressive speakers,
even at low volumes”
Dynaudio Special Forty £2500
“We can’t think of
Best standmount speaker £2000+, Awards 2019 + + + + + a better all-round
alternative at this
When paired with talented electronics, these standmounters will price level”
shine, offering a confident, muscular and subtle sound. Lots of fun.
Size (hwd) 36 x 20 x 32cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 “If you want speakers
that get to the heart
ProAc Response D2R £3295 of the music rather
than just play the
Best standmount speaker over £1500, Awards 2020 + + + + + right notes, these
should be high on
Wonderfully transparent, yet never overly analytical, these ProAcs excel your shortlist”
at giving the music the limelight. We can’t ask for any more than that.
Size (hwd) 43 x 21 x 26cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 6 www.whathifi.com 79

Spendor Classic 2/3 £3295

August 2018 + + + + +

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.
Size (hwd) 54 x 27 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2

Dynaudio Contour 20i £3999

October 2020 + + + + +

These Dynaudios hold their own against formidable opposition,
proving to be a supremely rhythmic and musically cohesive option.
Size (hwd) 44 x 21.5 x 36cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3

£2000 andSTEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED “Rather than excel in
above a few specific areas,
KEF Reference 1 £4999 they perform well
Desktop across the board”
speakers July 2018 + + + + +
“Quite simply,
Floorstanders up to £800These are superb all-rounders that work well across a wide range of these are superb
music, systems and rooms. The dedicated stands are pricey though. speakers of
£800 to £1000Size (hwd) 44 x 21 x 43cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 their type”

FloorstandersRuark Audio MR1 Mk2 £329 “A speaker
£1000 - £2000 that belies its
Best desktop speaker, Awards 2020 + + + + + reasonable price
tag at every turn”
Gorgeous retro design and superb sound make the Mk2s an update
that manages to be even more appealing than its predecessor. “These Elacs can go
Size (hwd) 17 x 13 x 14cm Powered Yes Finishes 1 low, but there is a
bass clarity beyond
Fyne Audio F302 £399 the grasp of most
floorstanders at
Best floorstander under £500, Awards 2020 + + + + + this price”

The superlative F302s’ full-bodied presentation and low-end “The Q Acoustics
presence make this another easy recommendation for this brand. have the subtlety to
Size (hwd) 93 x 19 x 27cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 pick out textures and
discern dynamics
Elac Debut 2.0 F5.2 £599 without combing
over intricacies”
September 2019 + + + + +
“The Dali’s sound
A mature, honest presentation, neither sucking the life out of a piece, nor simply flows in an
exaggerating it. Elac is one of the few companies to do this with such aplomb organic and
Size (hwd) 100 x 18 x 23cm Bi-wire No Finishes 1 convincing manner”

Q Acoustics 3050i £649 “It’s in the way
everything hangs
Best floorstander £400-£800, Awards 2017 + + + + + together; each piece
of music is
These punchy and entertaining floorstanders are an improvement on their effortlessly whole”
predecessors. They’re well built and flexible about positioning, too.
Size (hwd) 102 x 31 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 “A very mature
performance,
Dali Oberon 5 £699 marked by rhythmic
and instrumental
Best floorstander £500-£1000, Awards 2020 + + + + + organisation as well
as balance.”
A great option for floorstanders under £1000, these Dalis are fun-sounding
speakers, with a great dose of transparency that’s impressive for the price. “The F501s
Size (hwd) 83 x 16 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 are an
extremely
Acoustic Energy AE309 £999 confident
calling-card”
August 2019 + + + + +
“Tying everything
These are simply a fun, well-rounded pair of floorstanders that together is a fine
are as likeable as anything we’ve heard for less than a grand. sense of timing
Size (hwd) 90 x 17.5 x 28cm Bi-wire No Finishes 3 that results in
surefooted rhythms”
Monitor Audio Silver 200 £999

Best floorstander £800-£1200, Awards 2017 + + + + +

The latest generation of Silver speakers bring a sense of fun that was
lacking in previous efforts. They are great all-round performers.
Size (hwd) 88 x 16 x 24cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 6

Fyne Audio F501 £1199

Best floorstander £1000-£1500, Awards 2018 + + + + +

Another thrillingly accomplished effort from Fyne. Partner them
well and they’ll deliver a detailed, revealing and confident sound.
Size (hwd) 98 x 20 x 32cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2

Wharfedale Evo 4.4 £1199

Best floorstanding speaker £1000-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

The Evo 4.4s are entertaining and detailed, with enough in the
way of refinement to make them an excellent long-term choice.
Size (hwd) 106 x 25 x 35cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3

80 www.whathifi.com

B&W 603 £1249 STEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED Floorstanders £1000 - £2000

June 2019 + + + + + “They are blessed £2000 to £5000
with a wow factor
The B&W 603s are floorstanding speakers that are up there that other speakers
with the best at this price. You should give them a whirl… at this price can only
Size (hwd) 98.5 x 19 x 34cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 dream of, especially
with voices”
Neat Iota Alpha £1470
“A surprisingly
Best floorstander £1200-£2000, Awards 2017 + + + + + spacious
presentation that
If you want fuss-free floorstanders that don’t dominate the room, there wouldn’t be out of
are few better alternatives than this entertaining effort from Neat. place in rivals twice
Size (hwd) 45 x 20 x 16cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 the height”

Revel Concerta2 F35 £1899 “It’s impressive how
effortless the Revels
May 2019 + + + + + sound. They dispatch
any genre you throw
There aren’t many speakers at this price that make listening their way with
to music as enjoyable as the Revel Concerta2 F35s minimal fuss”
Size (hwd) 102 x 21 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2
“The DT8s paint on
ProAc Response DT8 £1999 an expansive sonic
canvas, and locate
Best floorstander £1500-£2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + instruments with
precision and
The DT8s deliver such an entertaining sound, we can’t help but recommend stability”
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) “If you’re looking for
excitement and
Fyne Audio F501SP £2799 energy, we can’t
think of an alternative
January 2021 + + + + + that betters these at
the price”
The difference in price between the standard F501 and the
SP version is massive, but then so is the jump in performance. “The sound is
Size (hwd) 98 x 29 x 32cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 3 terrifically clean and
organised. The A7s
Spendor A7 £3200 also pack in bags of
punch to keep things
Best floorstanders over £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + sounding lively”

The A7s continue Spendor’s knack for combining precision, “If you’re looking
clarity and subtlety with hugely enjoyable dynamics and rhythm. for top-class
Size (hwd) 94 x 18 x 31cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 floorstanders,
we can’t think
PMC Twenty5.23 £3295 of a better
alternative”
Awards 2016 + + + + +
Read more at...
PMC has created a terrific pair of floorstanding speakers. www.whathifi.com/features
Match them with a suitably talented system and they will sing.
Size (hwd) 91 x 16 x 33cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 www.whathifi.com 81

Positioning your speakers

It’s no good spending hundreds of Use a stand
pounds on your new speakers if Speaker stands keep the speaker cabinet
you then don’t allow them to rigid. This allows for more of the drivers’
perform properly. Take care with movement to be translated into sound
positioning to get them to sing. and not wasted through vibrations.
If your stands are on a carpet, make sure
Wall or in the open? you have spikes to ensure stability.
Where’s the best place to position a speaker?
Some speakers might sound better against Tweeter height
a wall, while others prefer to be out in the The higher-frequency sounds from a
open. Whatever your specific requirements, tweeter are more directional, and having
your speaker choice should primarily take them at ear level ensures optimum
into account how much space you have performance. So try to choose stands that
to house them. will have your speaker at the right height
for your seating position.

FloorstandersSTEREO SPEAKERS CONTINUED “If it’s all about the
£2000 to £5000 music for you, as
Neat Iota Xplorer £3495 opposed to absolute
£5000 to £15,000 sonic transparency,
September 2018 + + + + + give these Neats
£15,000 a serious listen”
and aboveThe Xplorers are another odd-looking pair of speakers from Neat,
but they have a way of delivering music that’s truly spellbinding. “Capable of a
Size (hwd) 74 x 30 x 22cm Bi-wire No Finishes 4 performance
that strongly
Q Acoustics Concept 500 £3999 challenges
alternatives up to
January 2018 + + + + + twice the price”

One of the most impressive high-end speakers we’ve heard in recent “Importantly, they’re
years, these offer insight, great bass and wide-ranging dynamics. subtle, conveying
Size (hwd) 115 x 40 x 35cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2 nuances with skill”

Audiovector SR3 Avantgarde £6320 “Once up and
running, these
January 2019 + + + + + ATCs are deeply
impressive speakers”
These floorstanders match their impressive price with impressive sound. They
demonstrate a good deal of organisation, stunning clarity and real punch. “They charm and
Size (hwd) 103 x 19 x 33cm Bi-wire Tri-wire Finishes 8 thrill. They make us
happy or sad as the
ATC SCM40A £6800 music demands.
We can’t get enough
April 2014 + + + + + of them”

The price looks steep but factor in built-in amplification and exceptional View offers
sound, and the SCM40As emerge as something of a high-end bargain. whf.cm/BBHifiSystems
Size (hwd) 98 x 37 x 34cm Bi-wire No Finishes 2 Active Yes
Up to £500
JBL K2 S9900 £44,000
£500 to £1000
Best Temptation, Awards 2017 + + + + +

A fantastic pair of speakers that deliver a spellbinding mix of dynamics,
insight and finesse. Among the best speakers money can buy.
Size (hwd) 120 x 56 x 35cm Bi-wire Yes Finishes 2

SYSTEMS

CONVENIENCE DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN LOWER QUALITY

Pro-Ject Juke Box E £369

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 £329

Best microsystem, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

KEF LSX £999

Best all-in-one system under £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £999

Best system under £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

82 www.whathifi.com

Arcam SA30 £1999 SYSTEMS CONTINUED £1000 to £2000

May 2020 + + + + + View offers £2000 and above
whf.cm/BBTurntables
A fine example of how well music streaming can be implemented into Multi-room
traditional hi-fi – and how discreetly. Just add a control device and speakers. www.whathifi.com 83
Inputs Line-in x3, coaxial x2, opt x2, USB, MM and MC phono £150
to £300
Naim Uniti Atom £1999

Best hi-fi system over £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £2250

Best all-in-one system over £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

Naim Uniti Star £3499

November 2018 + + + + +

The Uniti Star is a great addition to Naim’s streaming system
range – and if you need CD replay, it’s the obvious choice.
Inputs Line-in x2, DIN, coax x3, opt x2, USB, BT, wi-fi Outputs Line-out, DIN

Dali Rubicon 2 C £3840

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 £4199

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

Audio Pro System from £650

Best multi-room system under £1000, Awards 2018 + + + + +

Audio Pro’s multi-room system is not the most advanced, but no
other system makes more sound-per-pound sense than this one.
Res 16-bit/44.1kHz App iOS, Android Formats MP3, FLAC, WMA

Sonos System from £1047

Best multi-room system £1000+, 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

TURNTABLES

DECKS TO KEEP THE VINYL REVIVAL THRIVING

Pro-Ject Primary E £159

Best turntable under £200, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Pro-Ject has revised a budget deck to nail the under
£150 market – and has succeeded on every front.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 42 x 33cm

£150 to £300TURNTABLES CONTINUED

£300 to £500Audio Technica AT-LP3 £199

£500 to £1000 Best turntable under £200, Awards 2017 + + + + +

A fully automatic turntable that doesn’t scrimp on performance, this
is the ideal entry-level deck for those looking to dip their ‘vinyl toes’ in.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 13 x 44 x 35cm

Sony PS-LX310BT £200

August 2019 + + + + +

A no-nonsense, fully automatic turntable with built-in phono
stage and Bluetooth, offering a surprisingly musical sound.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 43 x 37cm

Rega Planar 1 £249

Best turntable £200-£500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

Sony PS-HX500 £249

Best USB turntable, Awards 2018 + + + + +

A turntable with the ability to rip vinyl into hi-res files,
but it’s also an entertaining deck with a big, open sound.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 43 x 36cm

Pro-Ject Essential III £259

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

Audio Technica AT-LP5 £299

Awards 2016 + + + + +

A pleasure to use and listen to, the LP5 boasts both ease of use and
the added bonus of a USB ouput. At this price there’s none better.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 16 x 45 x 35cm

Pro-Ject Debut III S Audiophile £325

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 £329

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 £649

Best turntable £500-£1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £899

Best turntable £750-£1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

84 www.whathifi.com

THE NIKON MAGAZINE

ON The only monthly
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£1000 to £2000TURNTABLES CONTINUED

£2000 to £10,000Clearaudio Concept £1195

£10,000 and aboveBest turntable £800-£1200+, 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

EAT B-Sharp Super Pack £1368

July 2018 + + + + +

EAT’s entry-level deck is a fine one that can count among its talents
a sense of control, sure composure and a well judged sonic balance.
Speed 33⅓, 45, 78rpm Size (hwd) 14 x 46 x 35cm

Rega Planar 6/Ania £1469

Best turntable £1000-£2000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

Rega Planar 8/Apheta 2 £2439

Best turntable over £1000, Awards 2019 + + + + +

Clever engineering and sky-high standards make this Rega’s most ambitious
and boundary-pushing turntable yet. It’s gorgeous in sound and design.
Speed 33⅓, 45rpm Size (hwd) 13 x 42 x 32cm

Vertere DG-1 Dynamic Groove £2850

Best turntable over £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £4200

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 £6000

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 £9300

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 £15,900

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 £18,670

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

86 www.whathifi.com

WIRELESS SPEAKERS View offers Up to £100
whf.cm/BBWirelessSpeakers
FREE YOUR MUSIC WITH ONE OF THESE STREAMING WONDERS £100 to £250
“The same sense of
Ultimate Ears Roll 2 £60 fun as the previous
model, but there’s a
Best wireless speaker under £100, Awards 2018 + + + + + touch of maturity
with the Roll 2”
The Roll 2 has a sound that’s more open, more dynamic and goes louder
than that of its predecessor. The drop in price makes this a bargain. “The Wonderboom 2
Size (hw) 4 x 14cm Battery 9 hours delivers a sound as
cohesive and
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 £90 detailed as we could
hope for at the price”
Best portable wireless speaker under £100, Awards 2019 + + + + +
“It’s clear that the
If you want a travelling companion you can rely on, this portable, HomePod Mini
rugged and durable speaker is a great-sounding option. comfortably
Size (hw) 10.5 x 9.5cm Battery 13 hours outperforms its size
and price”
Apple HomePod Mini £99
“JBL’s latest offering
January 2021 + + + + + sounds great and
is an excellent
It’s much smaller and more affordable than expected, but the proposition for
most surprising thing about the HomePod Mini is its superb sound. the money”
Size (hw) 4 x 14cm Battery No
“The sonic
JBL Flip 5 £120 performance,
streaming options
Best portable wireless speaker under £150, Awards 2020 + + + + + and app support
are among the best
A simple, portable Bluetooth speaker that sounds as good as £120 can we’ve tested at
buy. An impressively weighty performance, and overall solid sonic chops. this level”
Size (hwd) 8.4 x 9.8 x 9.8cm Battery 12 hours
“An enthusiastic
Sonos One SL £149 sound that favours
excitement while
March 2020 + + + + + still keeping an eye
on balance”
A Sonos One without the smarts, the SL (unlike the Play:1) will pair with
a One to make a stereo pair – but it sounds great as a standalone as well. “You’ll be hard
Size (hwd) 16 x 12 x 12cm Battery No pressed to get
much better
Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 £170 without dipping
a lot deeper into
Reviewed online, 2018 + + + + + your piggy bank”

The rugged, weather-proof Megaboom 3’s sleek design and “It snaps along with
improved sound are worth your time, especially at under £200. that same intensity
Size (hwd) 23 x 9 x 9cm Battery 20 hours and intelligent
organisation we’ve
Audio Pro Addon T5 £179 come to expect”

Best wireless speaker under £200, Awards 2017 + + + + + “By multi-room
speaker standards,
An impressive stationary wireless speaker that offers great dynamism, this is a remarkably
a clear and transparent sound and a good sense of timing. refined
Size (hwd) 13 x 25 x 15cm Battery No performance”

Audio Pro A10 £180 www.whathifi.com 87

February 2019 + + + + +

A brand-new cylindrical design, but underneath that trendy outfit
is the hugely enjoyable sonic character that we love from Audio Pro.
Size (hwd) 19 x 14 x 14cm Battery No

Audio Pro Addon C3 £249

Best portable wireless speaker over £150, Awards 2020 + + + + +

A smaller version of the talented and similarly-featured C5, this petite
Audio Pro sets itself apart by being battery-powered and portable.
Size (hwd) 12 x 22 x 14cm Battery 15 hours

£250 and aboveWIRELESS SPEAKERS CONTINUED “The scale of
the sound is
Smart speakersAudio Pro Addon C10 £269 impressive, digging
down into the low
Best home wireless speaker under £500, Awards 2020 + + + + + frequencies with
warmth and punch”
The big daddy of the Audio Pro multi-room system, this has a rich, powerful
performance, great timing and a more spacious presentation than any rival. “The A6 will stream
Size (hwd) 16 x 32 x 18cm Battery No pretty much
anything from
B&O BeoPlay A6 £729 anywhere and in
any way you like”
February 2016 + + + + +
“The overall
Oozing style and substance, the A6 effortlessly combines the simplicity presentation is
and convenience of a one-box system. It’s a job fully well done. muscular but lean;
Size (hwd) 30 x 54 x 16cm Battery No there’s plenty of bass
weight, but balance
Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation £749 is never skewed”

Best home wireless speaker over £500, Awards 2020 + + + + + “The Wedge isn’t
afraid to let you hear
The greatest value here is not found in the features or design, but in a sonic the truth. Vocals
performance that will effortlessly dispense of any one-box rival near this price. are clear, textured
Size (hd) 17 x 14cm Battery No Voice assistant Siri and emotive”

Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge £899 “Musicality is
still at the heart
November 2019 + + + + + of the Mu-so 2’s
performance as
The B&W Formation Wedge offers the kind of detailed, balanced, cohesive a soundbar”
sound that cannot be ignored – making it a class-leader in its category.
Size (hwd) 26 x 28 x 26cm Battery No “The Series 3
may not look like
Naim Mu-So 2 £1299 it, but make no
mistake, this is
September 2019 + + + + + proper hi-fi”

We’re surprised just how much sonic progression the Naim Mu-so 2 brings “Its sonic
over the original – Naim says that 95 per cent of the Mu-so 2 is new. performance makes
Size (hwd) 12 x 63 x 26cm Battery No it worthy in isolation”

Linn Series 3 £2950 “The soundstage
is spacious and
April 2020 + + + + + impressively
organised, with
The most expensive wireless speaker we’ve ever tested also happens to vocals given plenty
be the best. It’s hardly a bargain, but we are left convinced of its appeal. of breathing room”
Size (hwd) 30 x 25 x 21cm Battery No
“The Megablast has
Amazon Echo Plus (2018) £140 no problem filling up
our medium-sized
January 2019 + + + + + listening room with a
sound that demands
The 2nd-gen Plus is Amazon’s flagship smart speaker, and it finally your attention.”
has the sonic talents to match its smarts – especially at this price.
Size (hwd) 15 x 10 x 10cm Battery No Voice assistant Alexa “It’s capable of going
loud, and remains
Sonos One £199 composed, clear and
unflustered, even at
Awards 2017 + + + + + maximum volume”

Essentially a Play:1 with Alexa. The odd software niggle at launch,
but one of the best wireless speakers around just got smarter.
Size (hwd) 16 x 12 x 12cm Battery No Voice assistant Alexa

Ultimate Ears Megablast £270

February 2018 + + + + +

Featuring Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant in a portable speaker, the
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 £319

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

88 www.whathifi.com

BUYER’S GUIDE HOME CINEMA

BEST BLU-RAY PLAYERS View offers
BUYS whf.cm/BBBlurayPlayers
ENJOY HIGH-DEF MOVIE THRILLS
The only products
worth considering

Panasonic DP-UB150EB £129

March 2020 + + + + +

A highly competent machine at an impressively low price, this 4K Blu-ray
player represents a big step up from streaming your UHD content.
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD HDMI out 1

Sony UBP-X700 £199 Up to £500

Best 4K Blu-ray player under £250, Awards 2020 + + + + +

This 4K player delivers a stunningly natural picture for an
affordable price. It’ll be tough to knock this Sony off its perch.
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, SACD, CD HDMI out 2

Panasonic DP-UB820EB £290

Best 4K Blu-ray player over £250, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Delivers on multiple fronts, supporting all major HDR formats, delivering a
hugely immersive and impactful picture, and all backed up by strong audio.
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD HDMI out 2

Sony UBP-X1100ES £749

November 2019 + + + + +

Picture quality is excellent and it backs this up with an entertaining
and musical sound that is up there with the best at the money.
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, SACD, CD HDMI out 2

Panasonic DP-UB9000 £849 £500 and above

Best Blu-ray player £500+, Awards 2018 + + + + +

A razor-sharp picture with fine detail and an excellent colour
balance all help to deliver a picture that has a rare realism.
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD HDMI out 2

Pioneer UDP-LX500 £999

Best 4K Blu-ray player over £500, Awards 2019 + + + + +

Pioneer’s premium 4K player delivers a double whammy of superb picture
and awesome sound quality. If your system warrants it, buy with confidence
Compatibility 4K Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, CD HDMI out 2

HOME CINEMA AMPLIFIERS View offers
whf.cm/BBHomeCinemaAmps
POWERFUL SOUND THAT TRULY BRINGS MOVIES TO LIFE

Sony STR-DN1080 £429 Up to £500

Best home cinema amplifier under £750, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Sony’s latest AV amp is a return to form, with cutting-edge features
(inc. Dolby Atmos) and a compelling sound. It ticks all the right boxes.
Power 7 x 100W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 6/2

www.whathifi.com 89

£500 to £1000HOME CINEMA AMPLIFIERS CONTINUED

£1000 andAVR-X2700H £599
above
December 2020 + + + + +
View offers
Sonic improvements over its predecessor are marked, even if it’s the 8K whf.cm/BBProjectors
passthrough and next-gen gaming tech that steal the headlines.
Up to Power 7 x 150W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 6/2
£2000
Denon AVC-X3700H £999
£2000 to £10,000
Best home cinema amplifier £750-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £2299

Best home cinema amplifier over £1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

PROJECTORS

BECAUSE A MASSIVE PICTURE IS HOME CINEMA

Optoma UHD40 £1199

Best projector under £1500, 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 £1599

Best projector under £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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 £1967

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

Epson EH-TW9400 £2549

Best projector £2000-£3000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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-VW270ES £5000

Best projector £3000-£5000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Sony is one of the few brands making native 4K projectors and its latest
is a stunning showcase of class-leading sharpness and subtlety. Gorgeous.
Throw ratio 1.37-2.83:1 Inputs HDMI x2 Speakers No

JVC DLA-N5 £6495

Best projector over £5000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

90 www.whathifi.com

SET-TOP BOXES View offers PVRs
whf.cm/BBSetTopBoxes
THE BEST WAY TO ACCESS THE WORLD OF TELEVISION Subscription
View offers boxes
Humax FVP-5000T from £199 whf.cm/BBSoundbars
Up to £500
Best PVR, Awards 2020 + + + + + www.whathifi.com 91
£500 to £1000
If you need a Full HD box to give your older TV some more sparkle,
Humax’s digital box should absolutely be something to consider.
Tuners 3 Storage 500GB Ultra HD No

Sky Q 2TB from £199

Best subscription box, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Sky has overhauled its TV package with Q and made it more enticing
and versatile thanks to 4K support, but it comes with a high price tag.
Tuners 4 Storage 2TB Ultra HD Yes

SOUNDBARS & SOUNDBASES

A BRILLIANT WAY TO IMPROVE YOUR TV’S SOUND

Yamaha YAS-207 £249

Best soundbar under £300, 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 £399

Best soundbar £300-£750, Awards 2020 + + + + +

A compact soundbar that pumps out an exceptional sound for its
size and price. It could potentially transform your listening experience.
Size (hwd) 7 x 65 x 10cm Inputs Optical, HDMI ARC, AirPlay Sub No

Sonos Playbar £699

August 2017 + + + + +

It’s not perfect, but it still has the sonic heft and all-round
quality to edge out its Sonos Playbase stablemate.
Size 9 x 90 x 14cm Inputs Optical, ethernet Sub No

Yamaha YSP-2700 £699

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 £649

Best soundbar £500-£1000, 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 £799

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

£500SOUNDBARS & SOUNDBASES CONTINUED
to £1000
Sonos Arc £799
£1000
and above Best soundbar £750-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Soundbases The Arc is a stunning performer, delivering one of the most immersive
Dolby Atmos experiences we’ve heard from a soundbar.
Up to £1000 Size 9 x 114 x 12cm Inputs HDMI, Optical, ethernet Sub No View offers
whf.cm/BBSpeakerPackages
£1000 to £3000Sony HT-ST5000 £1199
“It has all the
Best soundbar £1000-£1500, Awards 2019 + + + + + detail, attack and
deftness to deliver
Delivers an accomplished Atmos performance we’d have no hesitation exhilaration in
in recommending. It is a superb-sounding effort for the price. spades”
Size (hwd) 8 x 118 x 15cm Inputs HDMI x3, opt, USB, 3.5mm Sub Yes
“This compact set
Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar £2199 really hits the spot
with its great clarity,
Best soundbar over £1500, Awards 2020 + + + + + integration,
expression and
This is the best soundbar we’ve tested, and the best way to get surround ample bass weight”
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 “It has all the
detail, attack and
Q Acoustics M2 £169 deftness to deliver
exhilaration in
Best soundbase, Awards 2019 + + + + + spades”

Q Acoustics can now add ‘soundbase’ to its list of successes. The M2 is “It’s worth stressing
an expressive, easy-to-use and fuss-free way of boosting your TV sound. just how talented
Size (hwd) 9 x 55 x 34cm Inputs Line-in, HDMI, 3.5mm, BT the 3050i 5.1
Cinema Pack is. It’s
SPEAKER PACKAGES an instant hit”

GOOD SURROUND-SOUND IS A MOVIE-MAGIC MUST “This may be the
easiest £1500
Wharfedale DX-2 £399 you’ll ever spend”

Best speaker package under £500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Wharfedale delivers movie magic on a small scale with this enjoyable,
well integrated package that’s perfect for smaller rooms and budgets.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 12 x 31 x 12cm Finishes 2

Q Acoustics 3010i 5.1 Cinema Pack £895

Best speaker package £500-£1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

The subwoofer needs a bit more kick, but this fantastic sub-£1000 5.1
package delivers a clear, well-balanced and expressive performance.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 15 x 43 x 22 cm Finishes 4

B&W MT-50 £1100

Awards 2015 + + + + +

These speakers sound crisp, clear and insightful, and the sub
and satellites integrate so well. Value and versatility combined.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 25 x 11 x 16cm Finishes 2

Q Acoustics 3050i 5.1 Cinema Pack £1345

Best speaker package £1000-£1500, Awards 2020 + + + + +

Add in floorstanders to the above, and this speaker package hits the
sweet spot with an infectiously musical and powerful performance.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 15 x 43 x 22 cm Finishes 4

Monitor Audio Bronze B5 AV £1489

Best speaker package £1000-£2000, Awards 2017 + + + + +

This classy speaker package from Monitor Audio is beautifully designed,
has ample punch, creates a spacious soundfield and is very musical.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 17 x 46 x 19cm Finishes 4

92 www.whathifi.com

Elac Debut 2.0 5.1 Home Theatre System £1499 SPEAKER PACKAGES CONTINUED £1000 to £3000

October 2019 + + + + + “What’s astonishing
is the realism of the
This Elac package is a real match-winner, whether for your two-channel soundscape – a
or the full surround. You’ll be hard pushed to find better at this price. delightfully balanced
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 18 x 54 x 22cm Finishes 1 audio image that
lets the equipment
Dali Oberon5 5.1 £1795 melt away”

Best speaker package £1500-£2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + “There’s surprising
authority and power
These are clever performers: lean, attractive, interesting and unfussy. to this relatively
And those words stand for both the aesthetics and the acoustics. diminutive package
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 44 x 30cm Finishes 4 as well…”

KEF Q350 AV 5.1 £2100 “If you have the
space, then you
January 2018 + + + + + should consider
opening your home
It takes up a fair bit of space, but the Q350 package puts in a powerful to this outstanding
and precise performance. You’ll struggle to do better for the money. KEF package”
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 21 x 63 x 30cm Finishes 2
“Rarely are we so
Monitor Audio Silver 200 AV12 £2865 fully behind a
speaker package
Best speaker package over £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + for its work both
in stereo and in
A little patience may be required, but once it hits its stride the surround sound”
Silver 200 AV12 is an expressive, fun and talented speaker package.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 45 x 20cm Finishes 6

ATC C1 5.1 £3595 “For small to £3000 and above
medium-sized
Awards 2016 + + + + + rooms, we can
think of no
We’d like a bit more authority in the bass, but we’re delighted by the better alternative”
detailed, agile sound, focused surround steering and power on offer.
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 41 x 28cm Finishes 2

PMC Twenty5.23 5.1 £10,290 “The greater insight
and texture make this
Best speaker package over £5000, Awards 2019 + + + + + one of the most
lifelike reproductions
Analytical and fun in equal measure, this gorgeous PMC system – also our of the human voice
current reference speaker package – is entirely worth the high asking price. at this price”
Size (hwd) Centre speaker 17 x 55 x 31cm Finishes 4

VIDEO STREAMERS View offers
whf.cm/BBVideoStreamers
DON’T RESTRICT STREAMING TO A LAPTOP – GET IT ON THE TELLY

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K £50 Up to £100

Best video streamer under £100, Awards 2020 + + + + + £100 and
above
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

Google Chromecast with Google TV £60

January 2021 + + + + +

With a new remote and super-smart UI, Google’s latest
Chromecast video streamer is the complete package.
Resolution Up to 4K HDR, 60fps Storage n/a 4K Yes

Apple TV 4K £179

Best video streamer over £100, Awards 2020 + + + + +

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

www.whathifi.com 93

Games consolesVIDEO STREAMERS CONTINUED

Up to Sony PS4 Pro £350 View offers
43in whf.cm/BBTelevisions
February 2017 + + + +
48in to 50in “As long as you’re
The Pro offers a solid, relatively affordable upgrade over the base PS4, not expecting the
55in but still needs work to be an all-in-one 4K streamer and player. moon on a stick, you
to 60in Resolution 2160p, 1080p, 1080i, 720p Storage 1TB 4K Yes will be delighted by
its performance”
Microsoft Xbox One X £410
“Not only is the Tizen
January 2018 + + + + operating system
smart, intuitive and
A capable, all-consuming box of 4K tricks. The interface has never been snappy, it also boasts
better and the jump in picture quality and audio abilities is welcome. the most complete
Resolution 2160p, 1080p, 1080i, 720p Storage 1TB 4K Yes selection of apps
available anywhere”
TELEVISIONS
“Whites are pure and
MAKE THE FOCUS OF YOUR ENTERTAINMENT HUB A GOOD ONE bright, edges are
razor sharp and
Samsung UE43TU7100 £379 light-to-dark contrast
is pronounced”
Best 40-43in TV, Awards 2020 + + + + +
“Tweaked
Does a remarkably good job in terms of core picture and sound performance accordingly, the
and boasts the best, most-app packed operating system in the business. XH9505 puts in a
Type LCD/LED HDMI 2 Resolution 4K Tuner TV Plus lovely performance”

Samsung UE50TU8500 £499 “This is not a
downgraded
Best 48-50in TV under £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + + flagship TV – it’s
a downsized
“What’s the best TV I can buy for £500?” It’s a question to which there’s a flagship TV”
new answer: the best TV you can buy for £500 is the Samsung UE50TU8500.
Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView “For sharpness and
detail, there’s never
Sony KD-49XG9005 £999 been a better TV
at this size”
Best 49-50in TV over £800, Awards 2019 + + + + +
“Samsung has laid
This is a lovely TV to watch, it sounds good by prevailing standards, and the smackdown once
its app selection leaves you wanting for little. Buy with confidence. again, with an
Type LCD/LED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView aggressive price. The
picture outperforms
Sony KD-49XH9505 £1000 everything else in
its class”
August 2020 (issue 437) + + + + +

Features a number of upgrades that make it a better TV than the
Award-winner it replaces. This is an all-round cracker.
Type LCD/LED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView

LG OLED48CX £1499

October 2020 + + + + +

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.
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD

Sony KD-48A9 £1799

Best 48-50in TV over £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

It’s undeniably expensive, but the Sony KD-48A9 OLED TV is simply
the best sub-55-inch television you can buy right now.
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView

Samsung UE55T8000 £549

Best 55-58in TV under £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + +

With a performance that far out-muscles anything else at this price,
this TV is a real steal.
Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview HD/YouView

94 www.whathifi.com

LG OLED55C9PLA £1399 TELEVISIONS CONTINUED 50in to 60in

Best 55in TV, Awards 2018 + + + + + “We switch to Blue 65in and above
Planet II, and while
Colours are insanely good, contrast levels are cracking. It’s the colours really 8K TV
super sharp and detailed. We’d have it at home in a heartbeat zing, it’s the detail
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freeview/Freesat HD that grabs us from
the off.”
Philips 55OLED805B £1499
“The Philips has a
Best 55-58in TV over £1000, Awards 2020 + + + + + clear advantage over
most rivals when it
An excellent picture performance, strong sound, Ambilight and an aggressive comes to definition
price combine to make the OLED805 one of the best TVs you can buy. and detail resolution”
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD
“The Q80T also
Samsung QE55Q80T £1599 combines a neutral
colour temperature
August 2020 (issue 437) + + + + + with the ability
to produce real
Thanks to its dynamic and solid picture, substantial sound and exhaustive vibrancy”
app selection, this mid-range Samsung TV sets a formidable benchmark.
Type QLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD “Those picture
upgrades are so
Panasonic TX-55GZ2000 £2999 special that this is
the best OLED TV
February 2020 + + + + + we’ve tested”

Dolby Atmos sound is the headline-grabber, but the picture is just as “Detail and definition
important – a huge achievement by Panasonic, beating LG at its own game are exceptional.
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freesat/Freeview HD Edges are razor-
sharp without
Samsung QE65Q70R £1299 looking artificially
enhanced”
Best 65in TV under £2000, Awards 2019 + + + + +
“The base black
The Q70R makes the dream of a healthy chunk of flagship performance levels on this TV are
without spending flagship money a reality. excellent for an LCD
Type QLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/Freeview HD panel”

Sony KD-65XH9005 £1299 “The OLED805’s
sharpness and detail
Best 65in TV under £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + are its greatest
strengths. Its colour
It’s stacked with handy features and, when available, the next-gen HDMI reproduction is
features should make this TV future-proofed for some time to come. excellent too”
Type LCD/LED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/F’view HD
“There’s an extra
Philips 65OLED805 £2199 lusciousness and
nuance to the colour
Best 65in TV over £2000, Awards 2020 + + + + + palette that makes
things look that bit
Not only does this Philips set look and sound better than its rivals, more organic and
it’s cheaper – and, as an added bonus, it has Ambilight, too. true to life”
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/F’view HD
“This Philips set
LG OLED65GX £3499 consistently blows
us away with its
July 2020 + + + + + vibrant, punchy and
pin-sharp delivery”
LG has managed to improve picture quality in a few key areas, with dark
detail, colour richness and motion handling all getting a worthwhile boost. “The image feels
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner Freesat/Freeview HD ‘real’ to a degree
that trumps even 4K,
Philips 65OLED984 £4499 with a three-
dimensionality that
April 2020 + + + + + makes you want to
reach out and touch”
This is a fabulous TV conjoined to one of the best ‘soundbars’ we’ve heard,
and the result is an all-in-one system unlike any other. www.whathifi.com 95
Type OLED HDMI 4 Resolution 4K Tuner YouView/F’view HD

Samsung QE75Q950TS £6999

Best 8K TV, Awards 2020 + + + + +

The first 8K TV we’ve tested that not only isn’t a downgrade on its 4K siblings
but actually makes a case for upgrading to an 8K TV even for 4K content.
Type QLED HDMI 4 Resolution 8K Tuner Freesat/TV Plus