REVIEW Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025: Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2025:
One of this year’s most anticipated demonstrations was the debut of QUAD’s flagship ESL-2912X electrostatic speakers, the first new ESL model since 2012. Introduced by designer Peter Comeau, the speakers were powered by the new-edition QUAD 33 preamp and two 303 power amps in bridged-mono mode. Electrostatic loudspeaker technology has been around since the 1950s, and is widely regarded for its transparency, detail, and natural sound reproduction. But there’s always room for improvement. The ESL-2912X refines the classic electrostatic panel design, to deliver enhanced clarity and stereo imaging.
8 All tunes great and small All tunes great and small
The UK’s longest-running audio show offered something for everyone. Steve May reports.
N
ow in its 36th year, the 2025 edition of the Bristol Hi-Fi Show once again drew the faithful, eager to hear sound systems large and small – and snag a bargain
or two in the process! The UK’s largest and longest-running consumer Hi-Fi event, and a cornerstone of the British audio industry, was once again held at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol City Centre, and organised by Audio T. There was something for everyone at this year’s expo, be they vinyl newbies or seasoned audiophiles, and true to form, adjoining booths battled noisily to capture the attention of jostling visitors. Chord Company, celebrating its 40th anniversary, ironically found its launch of its noise reducing PhonoARAY turntable earthing system drowned out by REL subwoofers from next door… “Don’t you have anything that can reduce noise from neighbours?” quipped an attendee.
QUAD’s ESL-2912X speakers
The model’s large, curved diaphragm brings even dispersion, mitigating the directional limitations often associated with electrostatics, while an upgraded power supply and improved protection circuitry are said to add to long- term stability. The resulting soundstage was astonishingly revealing and dynamic. The high-end electrostatics were driven by the new-edition QUAD 33 preamp and two 303 power amps in bridged-mono mode. The same amplification was used to power demos of Wharfedale’s new retro-inflected Super Linton speakers.
The PhonoARAY turntable earthing system
(pictured above), and the English Electric EE1 Plus network noise isolator, join a growing range of interconnects from the brand. One such was the Leyline 2XL, designed for the custom installation market, a sector of the AV business that traditionally values convenience over performance. “When they hear our new cable, they just get it,” a Chord representative noted.
Attracting big system buyers At the other end of the loudspeaker spectrum, Canadian active speaker brand Kanto made its mark with the Uki compact desktop speaker. Boasting Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, and analogue stereo inputs, the Uki balances cute design, with genuine performance. “We’re looking to be the gateway drug for new buyers interested in audio,” explained Kanto’s Brett Smalley. “We want to get them interested in high quality audio, so they can become the big system buyers of tomorrow.”
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