November 2024 ertonline.co.uk


Hi-Fi Systems


Iconic Hi-Fi brand Quad is also offering a similar blend of retro charm and modern sophistication, with the return of its 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier. Originally launched in 1967, these celebrated components have been reimagined for a new generation.


Record decks Vinyl continues to rock on, with WH Smith the latest high street retailer to return records to its stores. This should stoke confidence in premium turntables.


For those who dig design as much as discs, Austrian Hi-Fi specialist Pro-Ject Audio Systems offers the XA B (above), an eye- catching model with transparent acrylic plinth, and acoustically inert 1.7kg aluminium platter. Distributed by Henley Audio, this belting disc spinner features a 10-inch aluminium tube construction tonearm, ultra-low friction 4pin-point tonearm bearing assembly and pre- adjusted Pick it PRO Balanced cartridge. To maintain just the right level of isolation and damping, the XA B is equipped with a trio of height-adjustable feet that effectively isolate the turntable from its surrounding environment. It also comes with a protective dust cover, record stabilising puck and felt mat. For those new to the world of vinyl, the sleek


new AT-LP70xBT from Audio Technica (above right) is an obvious choice; it couples an anti- resonance chassis with the convenience of Bluetooth, specifically Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and a built-in switchable phono preamp. The deck comes with a J-shaped tonearm, plus an AT-VM95C Dual Moving Magnet cartridge, known for its low distortion. This can be upgraded to any other styli in Audio- Technica’s VM95 Series at a later date. With a removable hinged dust cover, it’s available in Black Silver, White Silver, and Black Bronze.


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If a radio upgrade is high on your customer’s Christmas list, then the latest R1 Mk4 digital radio from Ruark Audio will make a worthy present. Now available in a seasonal Pine Green, to


complement its handcrafted wooden grille, this popular model offers DAB, DAB+, and FM, plus Bluetooth connectivity. Taking full advantage of a renewed interest in compact disc playback, the Revo SuperCD all-in-one combines a CD player with radio, Bluetooth and streaming functionality. The wood and aluminium fascia is fittingly retro, and you also get DAB/DAB+, FM and internet radio, plus Spotify Connect, TIDAL and Deezer. It even supports multi-room playback, when connecting to other compatible Revo devices. It’ll certainly entertain the average living


room come Hogmanay, thanks to a punchy 40-watt Class D amplifier, and dual 3.5-inch BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) drivers. Wired connectivity includes an auxiliary input, digital optical audio output, and USB. Media file support covers FLAC, MP3, AAC, and WMA file formats. That’s all bases covered then!


The originals set a high bar for transistor amplification, offering a warm, detailed sound that contrasted with the often harsh solid-state amps of the time. These updates retain that rich sonic character, while adding new features to appeal to contemporary audiophiles. The 303 amp, with a rated power output of 50 watts per channel, now comes with RCA and XLR inputs and outputs, rather than the original’s DIN sockets. The system also includes a headphone jack, remote control, and 12V trigger for convenience. The preamp blends traditional orange-accented controls and grey casing, with LED-backlit buttons and an LCD display. For those looking for something different to scratch their Hi-Fi itch, Denon has the Home Amp. Bluetooth enabled, this ultra-compact amplifier swaps traditional amplifier design for something altogether more compact. As you’d expect, it’s HEOS enabled, making it easy to integrate within a larger connected ecosystem, where it can form the hub of a multi-room Hi-res streaming system. >>


Inset: The Revo SuperCD Below: Quad’s 33 preamp and 303 power amp


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