Innholdsfortegnelse for September 2018 i What Hi-Fi?

Having the right amplifier at the heart of your hi-fi is vital if you’re going to make the most of your music. And now that more and more of us (it may even be most of us…) choose to play our music via digital files, whether in a high-resolution format or not, it has become increasingly important and convenient to have a stereo amplifier with digital inputs – and perhaps even Bluetooth technology built in. Which is why, this month, we round up our selection of some of the best digital amplifiers (p34) out there from £350 to £1000 – so you can start or upgrade your system in just the right place. To continue with the digital music theme, we put the major music streaming services (p50), to the…

The Sonos Beam is here, and it’s very good indeed. It's significantly smaller and cheaper than the two Sonos TV speakers before it, yet it offers the same array of streaming and multi-room features – plus voice control and HDMI support. You might be wondering why you’d pay the extra for the Playbar or Playbase. Well, wonder no more, for we’re about to break down the relative merits of the company’s three TV sound solutions and declare which is, if not best, at least right for you. Small is beautiful The Beam is the smallest of Sonos’s TV speakers by quite some margin, making it easier to find it a spot under or in front of your TV. Weighing just 2.8kg, it will also be less of a stress on…

Sony KD-49XF9005 | 4K Television | £1300 | FOR Good detail; nuanced but punchy colours; contrast; apps AGAINST Android TV is a bit clunky in operation ★★★★★ For a product as modern as a 4K HDR television, the Sony KD-49XF9005 has a surprisingly strong legacy behind it. It’s the sequel to last year’s KD-49XE9005 – which was good enough to take home a What Hi-Fi? Award – and is the smaller sibling to the five-star-rated KD-65XF9005. With such high expectations, you’ll be pleased to know Sony has brought out another accomplished screen. Sharp but sprawling There’s no doubt that this Sony looks the part. Its slim bezels keep this television looking sharp, although the splayed legs upon which it stands are rather attention grabbing. On the plus side, they’re practical…

Monitor Audio Studio | Stereo speakers | £999 | FOR Speed, detail, good bass for size, clever engineering AGAINST Sound lacks solidity, warmth and expression ★★★ The Studio name has considerable resonance in Monitor Audio’s history. Go back a couple of decades, before the rationalisation to the current Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers, and you’d find the Studio series at the top of the tree. While these new standmounters share little technically with those highly rated models of old, they do have the same aim of providing class-leading performance. The Studios don't do things by halves, borrowing many of the engineering ideas used in the high-end Platinum range. Considering they weigh less than a third of the entry-level standmounters from that range, that’s an impressive achievement. Unusual design The…

“While nothing particularly sticks out or annoys when listening, there’s also little in the delivery that excites” Sennheiser IE 80 S | In-ear headphones | £300 | FOR Weighty, full-bodied and detailed sound; no harshness AGAINST Flat sound; timing; mic/remote cable costs extra ★★★ Not long ago, Sennheiser appeared to have the whole headphones market to itself. A shark in a sea of minnows, it dominated in practically every style and at every price point. How the company must miss those halcyon days. Sennheiser remains a hugely successful company, of course, but almost every manufacturer you’ve heard of (and several more that you haven’t) now has at least one pair of headphones in its repertoire, making the market more crowded than the rush-hour tube. Even in the premium in-ear segment,…

Giles Martin was born in 1969, the son of the famous Beatles producer George Martin. He joined Sonos in 2013 as sound experience leader, working on the Sonos home experience. A two-time Grammy Award-winning music producer, songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist, Martin has extensive experience both as a musician and music director. He has worked with some of the world’s biggest artists and has been critically acclaimed for his record production, live show, TV and film creation. His production and mixing credits include Paul McCartney, INXS, Kate Bush and The Beatles, as well as film work for Martin Scorsese, Matthew Vaughn and Ron Howard.…

Up to £100 Google Chromecast Audio £30 Best music streamer under £100, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Google turns its expertise to audio streaming to bring music from any Cast-compatible app to your amps and speakers for a super-low price. DLNA Yes Inputs RCA, 3.5mm, optical Storage No £100 to £500 Arcam rPlay £380 Best music streamer £100-£500, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Another in a long line of useful and affordable add-ons from Arcam, the rPlay introduces a myriad of streaming solutions to a hi-fi system. DLNA Yes Outputs Coaxial, analogue x2 Storage No Pioneer N-50A £380 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ The impressive N-50A offers an insightful performance, and can pluck music over DLNA and Internet radio, or via its many inputs. DLNA Yes Inputs Optical, coaxial, USB Storage No £500 to £1000 Cambridge…

Multi-room Sonos System From £175 Best multi-room system under £500, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 Mac, Android Formats MP3, iTunes Plus, WMA Audio Pro System From £630 April 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 24-bit/192kHz App iOS, Android Formats MP3, AAC, WMA, FLAC, ALAC Stereo sytems up to £500 Denon D-M41DAB £400 Best microsystem, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 Analogue & digital Sources B’tooth,CD, streaming, DAB, FM Tangent Ampster X4…

Up to £100 Panasonic DMP-BDT180EB £80 Best Blu-ray player under £100, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A budget player that delivers a high-quality picture. Whether it’s Blu-ray, DVD or streaming this spinner handles them all with skill and flair. Compatibility Blu-ray, DVD, CD Sony BDP-S3700 £85 May 2017 ★★★★★ A combination of impressive picture, smart functions and decent sound makes this a welcome, low-cost addition for any home cinema set-up. Compatibility Blu-ray, DVD, CD £100 to £500 Sony UBP-X700 £250 June 2018 ★★★★★ 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, CD Sony UBP-X800 £300 Best 4K Blu-ray player under £500, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Sony’s first 4K player astonishes with its colourful images…

Up to £1000 Epson EH-TW5350 £500 Best projector under £1000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A talented budget effort that handles motion, contrast and colour balance with great skill. It’s a mature and enjoyable projector. Throw ratio 1.22-1.47:1 Inputs HDMI x 2, RCA, composite Spks Yes £1000 to £3000 Optoma UHD40 £1300 June 2018 ★★★★★ 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 x 2, VGA, 3.5mm Speakers Yes Sony VPL-HW45ES £2000 Best projector £1000-£2000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Delivers a riveting picture that strikes the perfect balance between performance and price. Great for a first projector or an upgrade. Throw ratio n/a Inputs 2 x HDMI, USB Speakers No £3000 t0 £10,000 Optoma UHD65 £3000…

Up to £500 Canton DM55 £330 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ Replacing the DM50, the cheaper DM55 is even more appealing – its meaty yet subtle sound is a huge audio upgrade for your TV. Size (hwd) 7 x 55 x 30cm Inputs Optical, coaxial Q Acoustics M2 £300 Best soundbase, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Q Acoustics can now ‘soundbase’ to its list of successes; the M2 is an expressive, easy-to-use and fuss-free way of boosting your TV sound. Size (hwd) 9 x 55 x 34cm Inputs Opt, HDMI, 3.5mm, RCA, B’tooth View offers whf.cm/BBSoundbases…

Up to 40in Samsung UE32M5500 £320 Best 32-39in TV, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ It’s not the most sophisticated TV, lacking 4K and HDR, but for a 32in screen it offers a picture and features that will leave you satisfied. Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution 1366 x 768 Tuner Freeview HD 40in to 50in Samsung UE40MU6400 £500 Best 40-46in TV, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A 4K TV at a sensible size and a reasonable price that boasts deep, insightful blacks and nuanced colours. Not the best at HDR, though. Type LCD/LED HDMI 3 Resolution Ultra HD Tuner Freev’w/Freesat HD Sony KD-49XE9005 £1200 Best 47-52in TV, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A 4K HDR television that produces a superb UHD picture, it features a good number of streaming apps as well as decent sound for a…

Up to £400 Cowon Plenue D £200 Best portable music player under £250, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The Plenue D is a player worth its salt. It can handle a range of files, has an open and insightful sound and is easy to use. Hi-res compatible Yes Weight 94g Storage 32GB £400 to £700 Astell & Kern AK70 MkII £600 Best portable music player £250-£750, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The MkII is a worthwhile sonic improvement over the original, setting the bar for transparency at this price. It’s not far off portable perfection. Hi-res compatible Yes Weight 150g Storage 64GB £700 and above Astell & Kern Kann £900 Best portable music player £750+, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The Kann is expensive but, despite the chunky aesthetics, the sound quality is impressive, with lashings…

Up to £50 Chord Company C-Line £35 Best analogue interconnect under £50, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Few entry-level interconnects at the price come close to offering the sonic enjoyment that Chord has produced with this cable. Balanced/Single Single QED Performance Audio 40 £45 Reviewed online ★★★★★ If you covet space and detail along with sure but nimble footwork and heaps of insight, all for less than £50, look no further. Balanced/Single Single £50 and above Chord Clearway Analogue RCA £90 Best analogue interconnect £50+, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ If you’re spending cash on hi-fi components and you want cabling that doesn’t inhibit performance, the Clearway may be the ideal pick. Balanced/Single Single View offers whf.cm/BBAudioCables…

Up to £5000 Schiit Audio Magni 3 £110 July 2018 ★★★★★ A headphone amp that’s better than the name implies, this elegant device is a simple, affordable and great-sounding piece of kit. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 6 x 18 x 25cm Pathos Aurium £850 August 2013 ★★★★★ A top-class choice for amplification, but you’ll need a source and a pair of headphones of similar quality if you want the best from it. Outputs 6.3mm, XRL, RCA Inputs XLR, 3 RCA Audio Technica AT-HA5050H £4500 July 2016 ★★★★★ A headphone amp with a design harking back to the 1970s, this unit has a spellbinding sound that will leave you captivated. Outputs headphone x2 Inputs coaxial digital, XLR, RCA, USB View offers whf.cm/BBPhonoAmps…

Experience. Heritage. We’ve been helping the world discover the best in hi-fi and home entertainment for more than 40 years, and have more than 100 years of reviewing experience under our collective belts – so you can count on our expert opinion. Dedicated test facilities We test every product against its peers in our brand new, bespoke reviewing facilities in London and Bath. We conduct all our tests as a team – our opinions and conclusions are always the result of collaboration. Reference kit Naim CDS3/NDS/UnitiServe/555 PS; Clearaudio Innovation Wood; Cyrus Phono Signature/PSX-R2; GamuT D3i/D200i; ATC SCM50; Oppo UDP-203; Panasonic DMP-UB900; Yamaha RX-A3060; Epson EH-TW7200; PMC Twenty23 5.1; KEF R50; Sky Q…

ViewSonic M1 | Projector | £280 | FOR Neat design; low price; punchy picture; battery life AGAINST Picture lacks insight; ineffective in bright light ★★★ What’s the best way of getting a large image wherever you want? You could buy a 65in television and hire a group of burly people to carry it round for you, but we wouldn’t recommend this. On the other hand, you could buy a portable projector. These have the benefits of being relatively inexpensive, fitting nicely in your bag and providing an image of up to 100in. That’s what the ViewSonic M1 claims to offer – but can a great picture really be achieved from such a tiny unit? The M1 is a neat little device. A handle makes it easy to carry about, and…

Fiio Q5 | DAC | £329 | FOR Comprehensive spec; poised, balanced sound; build AGAINST Dynamically inhibited; stiff competition ★★★★ Our experience of Fiio has, so far, been of good or really very good products in the portable digital realm. While we've tended to prefer the company’s more budget-orientated products, it’s not shy of putting its head above the parapet and slapping a premium price on some of its equipment. That’s certainly the case with the Q5 headphone amp/digital-to-analogue converter. A £329 asking price places it up against some proven front-runners – particularly Oppo’s £289 HA2 SE and Chord’s mighty Mojo (£399). Happily for the Q5, Oppo is preparing to ditch its audio business and the Mojo (despite what Chord says) isn’t as portable as this Fiio. But can the…

Audio Pro Drumfire | Multi-room speakers | £600 FOR Tight bass; clear midrange; lovely build quality AGAINST App is more awkward than its rivals ★★★★★ We can usually spot an Audio Pro multi-room speaker from a mile off. It’s probably something about the distinctive driver arrangement that always reminds us of a big koala, but could also be down to the compact dimensions and the company's fondness for a leather-esque handle. So far, every one of the company’s range of multi-room speakers has fitted these qualities almost exactly – that is until the Drumfire came along. From a distance, this multi-room speaker and subwoofer combination looks more like a stylish minibar than an audio product. But get it playing and we’re instantly reminded again that this is an Audio Pro…

“The clusters of woodwinds fill our test room with ease, the soundstage a wide-open canvas for them to dynamically wax and wane” Q Acoustics 3020i | Stereo speakers | £249 | FOR Controlled, warm sound; full bass; expressive dynamics AGAINST The bigger cabinet could be impractical for some ★★★★★ Consistency is an admirable trait in the manufacture of hi-fi kit. But when we're reviewing the second or third iteration of a product in a company's range, it doesn’t make our job any easier. Struggling for new ways to describe what is essentially the same performance, we’ve often been tempted to simply link to the first review and add a few lines about any differences. That shortcut could be applied here with the Q Acoustics 3020i standmounters, the next model up…

FOR Solid sound; fluid timing and dynamics; phono stage AGAINST No USB input ★★★★★ NAD ignored a number of rules when it released the original D 3020 amplifier. If using Class D amplification wasn’t enough of a thumb to the nose to traditional designs, its chassis looked positively futuristic, standing upright with dimensions wildly unbefitting of ‘proper’ hi-fi. The D 3020 was unlike anything else on the market, and it actually sounded great. Essentially, this V2 is a slicker, classier-looking version of that amp. It features the same glossy curvature and similarly chunky dial, yet somehow still succeeds in making its predecessor seem dated. Seen another way, you could argue this version of the D 3020 is harking back to the past. Aside from its retuning and refining of the…

This is, without a doubt, the TV battle of the year. Having delivered a range of good, but not exceptional, QLEDs in 2017, Samsung appeared to have lost the battle against LG’s OLEDs at the first time of asking. When self-emissive quantum dots become reality, QLED could have another crack at its technological nemesis, but as long as those quantum dots remain reliant on an LED backlight, OLED will always stay ahead, we thought. Backlights are an issue because, while they can go bright, they tend to do so at the expense of black depth and can’t be controlled on a pixel-by-pixel basis in the way that OLED’s diodes can. It’s a core technical limitation that will always hand the contrast crown to OLED. At least that’s what we thought.…

As with so many of the tests we conduct here, there’s going to be a huge element of personal preference involved in the decision you make. Let’s face it, £10 per month is a commitment of BBC licence-fee proportions (and it could easily be double that if you want the best sound quality a streaming service can provide) – and your priorities may be different to ours. We doubt they’ll be significantly different, though. Ease of use, for instance, should be of interest to almost everyone – here, at least, there’s very little to separate these six rivals. Whether on desktop or mobile app, each streaming service follows broadly the same template for searching for music or compiling and accessing playlists. Some colour-schemes are preferable to others, but we’d be…

This is the definitive guide to the best home-entertainment kit you can buy. From 75in TVs to smartphones, from portable Bluetooth speakers to Dolby Atmos surround-sound packages, here’s where you’ll find the perfect product, fast. NEW ENTRIES This month, Philips’ 50PUS6703 is a superb 4K TV at a surprisingly low cost. Don’t let the look of Koss’ Porta Pro headphones fool you – they’re excellent value for money; and Denon’s AVR-X4400H is another stonking AV amplifier from the brand.…

Up to £500 Cambridge Audio CXC £350 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 View offers whf.cm/BBCDPlayers Up to £500 Marantz CD6006 UK Edition £450 Best CD player under £1000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The new king of the midrange market. The CD6006UK shows plenty of skill with detail, dynamics and clarity. A great player for the money. Type CD player Outputs Coaxial, optical, RCA, headphone, USB Onkyo C-N7050 £400 April 2015 ★★★★★ A CD player or a hi-res music streamer? Whatever it is, the C-N7050 is a hugely appealing system that combines the best of both worlds. Type CD player/streamer Outputs Optical, coaxial,…

Up to £200 Pure Evoke H2 £100 Best radio under £100, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Pure’s latest radio is similar to its previous incarnation, but more refined. The H2 improves on the D2’s already-sophisticated sound. Battery No Size (hwd) 18 x 12 x 12cm Inputs Mini-USB, 3.5mm Revo SuperSignal £180 August 2016 ★★★★★ A stylish radio with plenty of features, it’s even more impressive on the audio front thanks to a large-scale sound that belies its appearance. Battery No Size (hwd) 21 x 14 x 14cm Inputs 3.5mm, AUX in, B’tooth £200 and above Revo SuperConnect £280 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…

NAS drive All your music goes in here. It’s an intelligent hard drive that can be accessed by other components within your network. Music streamer Deals with the music stored in the NAS and turns it into an electronic signal your amplifier can work with. Ethernet switch Not an essential part of the streaming system equation, but a good way of isolating your network from outside interference. Wireless set-up The control centre of your network. This manages the communication flow. You can connect to it via wired ethernet or wi-fi. Tablet/smartphone The best way to navigate around your music collection is with a dedicated app. A phone will do the job but a tablet is better. Read more at... www.whathifi.com/features…

Up to £100 Ultimate Ears Roll 2 £60 Best portable wireless speaker under £100, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The Roll 2 has a sound that’s more open, more dynamic and goes louder than its predecessor. The drop in price makes this a bargain. Size (hw) 4 x 14cm Battery Yes, up to 9 hrs playback Ultimate Ears Wonderboom £90 June 2017 ★★★★★ If you want a travelling companion you can rely on, this portable, rugged and durable speaker is a great-sounding option. Size (hw) 10.2 x 9.4cm Battery Yes, up to 10 hours (at 75% volume) £100 to £200 JBL Flip 3 £100 May 2016 ★★★★★ Correcting the missteps of the Flip 2, the Flip 3 boasts a smooth, warm sound as well as improved battery life and connectivity. Size (hwd)…

£500 to £1000 Denon AVR-X2400H £500 September 2017 ★★★★★ Not a giant leap forward, but the AVR-X2400H does offer an insightful, exciting sound and an exhaustive list of features. Power 7 x 95W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 8/2 Sony STR-DN1080 £525 Best home cinema amplifier under £1000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 Denon AVR-X4400H £829 August 2018 ★★★★★ A stonking amp that continues Denon’s excellent run of form with a solid feature set and a sound that combines muscle and musicality. Power 105W Dolby Atmos Yes HDMI in/out 8/3 £1000 and above Denon AVR-X6400H £2300 Best…

PVRs Humax FVP-5000T £230 Best PVR, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 Set-top BT Ultra HD YouView min £15/month + fees November 2015 ★★★★ The first 4K box to hit the market, this is the most accomplished live TV you can watch. Content is limited right now – so it’s one for sports fans. Tuners 2 Storage 1TB Ultra HD Yes Sky Q 2TB from £44/month + fees Best subscription box, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Sky has overhauled its TV package with Q and made it more enticing, versatile and contemporary, but it does come with a high price tag. Tuners 4 Storage…

Style speaker packages 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 B&W MT-60D £1950 May 2012 ★★★★★ Compact and stylish (we love that sub), this package presents a dynamic, powerful sound that excels with surround sound and stereo music. Size (hwd) Centre speaker 25 x 11 x 16cm Finishes 2 Dali Zensor 1 5.1 £980 Best speaker package under £1000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Why did it win an Award? For its punchy dynamics, abundance of detail, expression, articulation and impressive integration. Size (hwd) Centre speaker 16 x 44 x 29cm Finishes 3 Traditional packages up to £2000 Q Acoustics 3000 Series 5.1…

In-ears up to £50 Beyerdynamic Byron £49 Best in-ears under £50, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A spectacular return to the budget earphone arena for Beyerdynamic, the Byron sets the standard at this price with a peerless performance. In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.2m SoundMagic E10C £40 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ The C stands for compatibility but could stand for consistency too. Five years in and these in-ears are still as good as they’ve ever been. In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.2m £50 to £100 Sennheiser Momentum M2 IEi £80 Best in-ears £50-£100, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ You wouldn’t think anything so small could sound quite so good – not for just £80. But they are wonderfully smooth, expressive and balanced. In-line controls Yes Cable length 1.3m Sony MDR-EX650AP £60 November 2014 ★★★★★ These…

Over 5in Apple iPhone 8 Plus Best smartphone, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ It borrows several ideas from last year’s 7 Plus, but a few small upgrades make a big difference and Apple’s latest now leads the pack. OS iOS Size (hwd) 159 x 78 x 8mm Storage 64GB HTC U11 August 2017 ★★★★★ HTC’s latest is not the most innovative of efforts, but decent sound and terrific video mean it’s up there with the best 2017 has to offer. OS Android 7.1 Size (hwd) 154 x 76 x 8mm Storage 64GB/microSD Samsung Galaxy S9 Reviewed online ★★★★★ A polished successor to the S8 that, due to a number of carefully considered tweaks, is one of the best Android phones available. OS Android Size (hwd) 148 x 69 x 9mm Storage 64GB/microSD…

Under 8in Amazon Fire 7 (2017) £50 Best tablet under £200, Awards 2017 ★★★★ A cheap and cheerful tablet that’s good for the money and has a lot of the functionality you’d find in more expensive efforts. OS Android Size (hwd) 114 x 190 x 10mm Storage 8GB Over 8in Apple iPad (2017) from £340 Best tablet over £200, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The latest iPad receives a muted update, but it still continues to give you that elegant and intuitive experience we expect from Apple. OS iOS Size (hwd) 240 x 170 x 8mm Storage 32/128GB Apple iPad Pro 10.5in £1020 September 2017 ★★★★★ The 10.5in Pro cements Apple’s position in the premium-tablet market, with faster performance, slicker design and fantastic image quality. OS iOS Size (hwd) 250 x 174…

Up to £500 Atacama Apollo Storm 6 £390 February 2018 ★★★★★ Another class-leading support from Atacama that’s cheaper than its Award-winning sibling. It lets your kit perform at its best. Width 590mm Modular Yes Cable management No £500 and above Atacama Elite Eco 12.0 £500 March 2013 ★★★★★ Those looking for a strong support for AV and hi-fi that enables a fluid, authoritative presentation will like the performance this rack can offer. Width 1157mm Modular Yes Cable management Yes Atacama Evoque Eco 60-40 SE £600 Best equipment rack, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ The SE stands for Special Edition, while significant improvements in the Eco 60-40’s design and dampening mean it works better than ever. Width 600mm Modular Yes Cable management No View offers whf.cm/BBHiFiRacks…

Up to £200 Olson Sound Fantastic HF6 £135 September 2015 ★★★★★ Grants a system far greater freedom of expression without sacrificing control or authority. If you can afford to, buy it without reservations. Type Block Mains filter Yes No. of plugs 6 Tacima CS947 £45 September 2015 ★★★★★ Great value, the highlight being how well it allows for greater detail, attack and dynamics. For the price, it’s a brilliant entry-level purchase. Type Block Mains filter Yes No. of plugs 6 Up to £200 Audioquest JitterBug £40 April 2016 ★★★★★ It might look insubstantial, but when plugged into a USB port it works wonders, filtering signal noise to allow a more solid and precise sound. Type USB Mains filter No No. of plugs n/a £200 and above Russ Andrews X6 £350…

Up to £200 Edwards Audio Apprentice MM £90 January 2018 ★★★★★ Good timing and dynamic range shine alongside a fine musical performance, irrespective of the music being played. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 11 x 16cm Rega Fono Mini A2D £85 March 2012 ★★★★★ There’s little fancy about the Fono Mini A2D, but that doesn’t matter when the presentation is this good. And it has a useful USB output. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 6 x 18 x 25cm Graham Slee Gram Amp 2 Communicator £180 July 2018 ★★★★★ A gem of a phono amplifier that has stood the test of time. It offers class-leading levels of detail, brilliant timing and a sweet sound. Type MM Dimensions (hwd) 5 x 12 x 19cm £200 to £350 Cambridge Audio Duo £250…

Up to £10/m QED XT25 £6/m May 2018 ★★★★★ Features the same characteristics as the more expensive XT40, displaying the kind of transparency that’s difficult for its rivals to match. Single or Bi-wire Single Chord Company C-Screen £5/m June 2018 ★★★★★ The C-Screen possesses the fantastic ability to mirror a system’s punch and drive. What it does, it does better than anything else at the price. Single or Bi-wire Single Wireworld Luna 7 £6.50/m March 2014 ★★★★★ A fine speaker cable, the Luna’s exciting presentation and all-round ability means it should sit well with a wide range of systems. Single or Bi-wire Single £10/m and above Chord Company Clearway £10/m Best speaker cable, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Not the flashiest cable, its strength is aiding dynamics and musicality, as well as…

Speaker stands Atacama Duo 6 £65 February 2013 ★★★★★ Easy to assemble (we suggest you mass-load the stand), these Atacamas help produce a detailed, clear and energetic sound. Top plate size (wd) 130 x 170mm Height 60cm Fillable Yes Atacama Moseco 6 £120 Best speaker stand, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A speaker stand that impresses with how weighty and dynamic it allows systems to sound. Considering the price, it’s something of a steal. Top plate size (wd) 130 x 170mm Height 60cm Fillable Yes Q Acoustics 20 speaker stands £200 September 2014 ★★★★★ Designed with QAs’ Concept 20 speakers in mind, the clever construction and elegant design ensures other speakers give their best too. Top plate size (hd) n/a Height 66.5cm Fillable No View offers whf.cm/BBSpeakerStands…

HTC U12+ | Smartphone | £699 (64GB) | FOR Smooth performance; vibrant screen; camera; features AGAINST No great AV leap forward; home button position ★★★★ HTC is done with chasing specs. For its latest smartphone, the HTC U12+, it simply wants to free you from the restrictions of using a touchscreen. But if that seems counterintuitive for a smartphone manufacturer, HTC hopes its Edge Sense technology – touch-sensitive sides you can squeeze or tap to activate features – will tempt people into parting with £700. Basic design consistency HTC has stuck with its glass body and ‘Liquid Surface’ design with layers of colour baked into the glass, so the phone looks different depending on how it catches the light. Available in ceramic black, flame red or translucent blue, the HTC…

The recently launched Sonos Beam soundbar fills a rather obvious gap in the smart speaker company’s product line-up. Not only is it one of the more affordable Sonos speakers on the market, it has been built with that prime position underneath your TV in mind. For an affordable entry into Sonos ownership that delivers high-quality music and movie sound, the Beam could be the answer. And it isn’t short of features. There’s an HDMI input on a Sonos product for the first time, plus Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Meanwhile, Apple AirPlay 2 and Siri voice control should be ready by the time of launch. However, AV enthusiasts will point to a couple of specifications that aren’t on the sheet – DTS and Dolby Atmos. We spoke to Giles Martin, Sonos’s…

SYSTEM 1 If the budget is a little tight… STREAMER Arcam rPlay ★★★★★ £340 An easy and affordable way to introduce myriad streaming solutions to your system. It has up to 24-bit/192 KHz hi-res support, a capable app – and solid, articulate sound TURNTABLE Rega Planar 1 ★★★★★ £250 This entry-level Planar stays true to the Rega sound. It’s rhythmic and expressive, and provides a good amount of detail. What’s more, it’s easy to set up and live with – ideal in a system like this LOUDSPEAKERS Dali Spektor 2 ★★★★★ £200 The Spektor 2s combine Dali’s traditional strengths – an agile, articulate and expressive sound – with an impressive dose of entertainment. These will get your toes tapping… Total build £790 SYSTEM 2 If you can splash out a…

Stereo amps up to £500 Marantz PM6006 £279 December 2016 ★★★★★ Another fine amplifier from Marantz. It’s a clear improvement over the PM6005, our only disappointment is the scarcity of digital sources. Power 45W Inputs 5 line-in, MM Outputs headphone Onkyo A-9010 £200 Best stereo amplifier under £300, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 5 line-in, MM Outputs speaker, headphone £500 to £1000 Cambridge Audio CXA60 £580 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ This is a lively performer with expressive dynamics and a surefooted sense of rhythm. The build quality is impressive too. Power 60W Inputs 4 line-in Outputs Preamp, 2 x speaker, headphone Rega Brio £600 Best stereo amplifier…

Up to £200 Arcam miniBlink £100 Awards 2015 ★★★★★ This receiver has serious dynamic clout, with a zingy and fluid rhythm. The 3.5mm analogue output means an adaptor is needed for trad hi-fi. Inputs Bluetooth Size 2.5 x 3 x 4cm Audioquest DragonFly Red £170 Best USB DAC £150+, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A more expensive alternative to the DragonFly Black, this is a marked improvement over the original, sounding more sophisticated and subtler. Inputs USB Size 6 x 2 x 1cm Resolution Up to 24-bit/96kHz Cyrus soundKey £100 Best USB DAC under £150, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ An affordable, compact DAC that turns mobile listening into an authentic high-fidelity experience. iOS users may find connectivity a little inelegant. Inputs micro-USB Size 2 x 5 x 1mm Resolution Up to 24-bit/96kHz £200…

Desktop speakers KEF Egg £350 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ Our 2015 Best Desktop Speaker Over £200 have a distinctive design and flexible connectivity – and a stunning, consistent performance. Size (hwd) 27 x 13 x 17cm Powered Yes Finishes 3 Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2 £330 Best desktop speaker, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ Gorgeous retro design and superb sound make the Mk2s an update that manages to be even more appealing than its predecessor. Size (hwd) 17 x 13 x 14cm Powered Yes Finishes 1 Floorstanders up to £1000 Tannoy Eclipse 3 £300 Best floorstander under £400, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ A speaker that’s easy to set up and partner, this is the most talented budget floorstander we’ve heard in years. Size (hwd) 96 x 27 x 29cm Bi-wire No Finishes 1 Fyne Audio…

Up to £300 Audio Technica AT-LP3 £200 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 33.3 & 45rpm Size (hwd) 13 x 44 x 35cm Pro-Ject Essential III £240 October 2017 ★★★★★ Another excellent turntable from Pro-Ject. The Essential III is easy to set up and offers a detailed and musical performance. Speed 33.3 & 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 42 x 33cm Sony PS-HX500 £280 Best USB turntable, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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 33.3 & 45rpm Size (hwd) 11 x 43 x 36cm £300…

While Blade Runner felt small and contained, 2049 aims for an epic and sweeping quality. Whether it’s the Brutalist architecture of Los Angeles or the trash mesas of San Diego, the artificial sunlight that drapes the Wallace Corporation’s interiors or the arid beauty of Las Vegas, it’s a beautiful-looking film. The most interesting characters are mostly non-human. K’s search for a soul marks him out as the narrative’s most sympathetic character. Sylvia Hoek’s Luv is both ferocious and immature. Ana de Armas’ Joi is an AI that blurs the line as to what’s real and what’s not. Harrison Ford wasn’t well served by the original, but now gets to play a three-dimensional character harbouring genuine anguish and sadness. Blade Runner arguably still has the measure of its progeny, but that…

Up to £500 Q Acoustics Media 4 £330 Awards 2016 ★★★★★ Q Acoustics’ debut soundbar is remarkable value – even more so at its reduced price – and more than worthy of its two-time PoY status. Size (hwd) 9 x 100 x 14cm Inputs Optical, RCA Subwoofer No Yamaha YAS-207 £350 Best soundbar under £500, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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, B’tooth Sub Yes £500 to £1000 Dali Kubik One £800 Best soundbar £500-£1000, Awards 2017 ★★★★★ 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…

Up to £50 Amazon Fire TV stick w/Alexa £40 June 2017 ★★★★★ The core design remains similar while the low price and addition of Alexa make the Fire TV stick a cheap way of getting smart apps on your TV. Resolution 1080p, 720p Storage 8GB Ultra HD No Google Chromecast 2 £30 December 2015 ★★★★★ The second-gen Chromecast still ‘casts’ content from a device to a TV over wi-fi, but now with speedier operation and a performance boost. Resolution 1080p, 720p Storage No Ultra HD No Now TV (2015) £15 February 2016 ★★★★★ Now it outputs 1080p and passes through 7.1 surround sound, Now TV is a great way to open your doors to a plethora of Sky content. Resolution 1080p, 720p Storage n/a Ultra HD No £50 to £150…

On demand video BBC iPlayer Free Awards 2015 ★★★★★ Quality content, a great interface and free (for catch-up TV), BBC’s iPlayer is one of, if not the best, video on-demand platforms out there. Resolution up to 1080p Offline playback Yes Google Play Movies & TV Variable June 2014 ★★★★★ Google’s venture into video streaming is a success, offering pretty much everything we could ask for from an on-demand video service. Resolution Up to 1080p Offline playback Yes On demand music Qobuz Sublime £220/pa May 2016 ★★★★★ Qobuz Sublime is, well, sublime. Easy to use, with a diverse catalogue and competitive prices, this is a service that packs in a lot of value. Sound quality Up to 24-bit/192kHz Offline playback Yes Technics Tracks Variable January 2016 ★★★★★ Offering a (very) similar…