B&W is a British audio brand known for its high-quality speakers and headphones.

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Hifiman recently dropped two new pieces of kit for the desk-bound audiophile crowd, the EF499 and EF500 DAC/amps. Let's dig into what makes these two stand out, without all the marketing fluff.

First up, the EF500. What's cool about this one? It's got Hifiman's own Hymalaya LE R2R DAC tech. For those not deep into audio tech, that's basically a fancy way of saying it converts digital music files into analog sound really precisely, making your tunes sound super clean and true to the original recording. Plus, it's got this design that lets it double as a stand for your headphones, which is pretty neat if you're trying to keep your desk looking sharp.

The EF499 takes a slightly different tack, opting for a Philips R2R DAC. This is a bit of a nod to the old-school, giving your music a warmer, more 'analog' vibe that some folks really dig. It's also designed to be a headphone stand, keeping that dual-purpose theme going.

Both models are pretty compact, designed to not hog too much space on your desk. They've got all the connections most folks would need, like balanced and unbalanced outputs, and a switch for toggling between digital and analog modes. They're built to last too, with features like an independent power supply and a case design that keeps things cool.

Price-wise, the EF499 is the more wallet-friendly option at $299, while the EF500 will set you back a bit more at $459. But what's the word on the street? Well, without diving into individual opinions, the general vibe is that these DAC/amps are hitting the right notes. The EF499, with its classic DAC chip, is getting nods for its smooth and potent sound, appealing to those who have a soft spot for the warmth of vintage audio gear. The EF500, meanwhile, is earning props for its precision and clarity, making it a strong contender even among pricier options.

In short, Hifiman's latest are shaping up to be solid picks for anyone looking to up their desktop audio game without cluttering up their space or emptying their bank account. Whether you're after that pristine, accurate sound or something with a bit more old-school warmth, there's something here that's likely to hit the spot.

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## Features and Technical Specifications

### Hifiman EF500:

-   **DAC Technology**: Proprietary Hymalaya LE R2R DAC for accurate digital-to-analog conversion.
-   **Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)**: 0.0025% (-8dB), indicating extremely low distortion levels.
-   **Channel Separation**: 131±3 dB, ensuring clear separation between audio channels.
-   **Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)**: 117 dB (A-Weighted), indicating a very low background noise level.
-   **Maximum Power Output**: 4.5 watts per channel (WPC) @ 32 Ω (balanced); 1.32 WPC @ 32 Ω (unbalanced), showcasing its ability to drive a wide range of headphones.
-   **Weight**: Approximately 3.37kg, solid and stable for desktop use.
-   **Design Features**: Dual-purpose as both an amplifier and a headphone stand, with a sleek design that adds to desktop aesthetics.
-   **Connectivity**: Fully balanced input/output connections, Coaxial/NET+USB function switch for versatile connection options.
-   **Power Supply**: Independent, ensuring clean and stable power delivery.
-   **Thermal Management**: Optimized tower case for efficient heat dissipation.

### Hifiman EF499:

-   **DAC Technology**: Philips R2R DAC, known for its warm, full-range sound signature.
-   **Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)**: 0.008% (0dB), slightly higher than the EF500 but still very low, indicative of minimal signal distortion.
-   **Channel Separation**: 95±3dB, providing good audio channel clarity.
-   **Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)**: 99dB (A-weighted, AP Open Loop Test), ensuring a clean sound with minimal background noise.
-   **Maximum Power Output**: 4.35 WPC @ 32 Ω (balanced); 1.28 WPC @ 32 Ω (unbalanced), indicating strong driving capabilities for headphones.
-   **Weight**: Approximately 3.3kg, also designed for stable desktop use.
-   **Design Features**: Similar to the EF500, it serves as both an amplifier and a headphone stand with a clutter-reducing design.
-   **Connectivity**: Offers balanced and unbalanced connections, with a focus on versatility for various audio setups.
-   **Power Supply**: Features an independent power supply for consistent performance.
-   **Thermal Management**: Designed with a thermal optimized case to maintain operational efficiency.

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EF499 and EF500: Hifiman's New Twins Take on Desktop Audio

HIFIMAN is an audio brand known for producing high-quality headphones and audio equipment.

HIFIMAN

Hifiman's new releases, EF499 and EF500, are here to transform your desktop listening experience.


Electrocompaniet has recently introduced the AW 300 M Mono Power Amplifier, showcasing its commitment to high-fidelity audio with this latest addition to their lineup. Designed as a mono-only amplifier, the AW 300 M is not just an embodiment of updated, yet unmistakable Electrocompaniet design, but it also offers seamless integration with both current and legacy products from the brand.

**Key Features of the AW 300 M:**

-   **Power and Performance**: The AW 300 M delivers 300 Watts into an 8Ω load, and is capable of producing 600 Watts into a 4Ω load and 1000 Watts into a 2Ω load. This power output is contained within a compact design, showcasing the amplifier's efficiency and adaptability.
-   **Innovative Design**: The amplifier features Electrocompaniet’s direct-coupled high open-loop bandwidth topology, now enhanced with high slew-rate and extended bandwidth amplifier stages. This design allows for an exceptionally low distortion rate, ensuring audio purity.
-   **Advanced Power Supply**: The power supply has undergone significant enhancements, featuring 110,000 uF supply filtering and meticulous DC and RF noise filtering. An 800VA toroidal transformer, combined with upgraded wire gauge transformer and effective shielding, minimizes interference.

**Technical Specifications:**

-   The AW 300 M boasts an input impedance of 330 kΩ and a frequency response ranging from 0.5 – 220 kHz with an active input filter, and 0.5 – 1.1 MHz with the input filter disabled. It offers a voltage gain of 29 dB for mono, balanced input, ensuring precision in audio amplification.
-   The signal-to-noise ratio stands at 95 dB for a 1W/8Ω load and 120 dB for full power output, highlighting the amplifier's clarity and efficiency.
-   The dimensions of the AW 300 M are notably compact for its capability, measuring 212 mm in width, 488 mm in depth, and 292 mm in height, making it an attractive option for various setups.

**Conclusion:** The AW 300 M Mono Power Amplifier, priced at €13,500 per unit in Europe and £12,100 per unit in the UK, represents a significant advancement in Electrocompaniet’s product line. It is designed for audiophiles seeking a powerful, high-quality audio experience in a sleek and modern package. The AW 300 M stands as a testament to Electrocompaniet's expertise in blending innovative audio technology with user-friendly design, offering an unparalleled auditory experience.

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Electrocompaniet AW 300 M: A New Era of Mono Power Amplification

Electrocompaniet AW 300 M Mono Power Amplifier, blending high-fidelity performance with compact design. Experience unparalleled audio with innovative topology and advanced power supply


In this article, we'll explore:

- The Silo Microphone's clear sound capture.
- How the HiFi Duet's sensors keep your guitar sounding natural.
- The blend of old-school guitar vibes with modern tech in the preamp.
- How this system keeps feedback under control in live shows.

Curious? Keep reading to see how the HiFi Duet is changing the game for guitarists.

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Recently, LR Baggs launched the HiFi Duet system for acoustic guitars, and it's been a topic of interest among guitar enthusiasts. It's a blend of their established HiFi pickups and the new Silo Microphone. This system aims to amplify the natural sound of an acoustic guitar while adding a layer of studio-quality audio.

**What's Inside?**

The core of the HiFi Duet lies in its bridge plate sensors. These are designed to be discreet and lightweight, ensuring that your guitar’s natural acoustic sound isn’t overshadowed. It’s a thoughtful approach, considering how guitarists often worry about electronic additions altering their instrument’s inherent voice.

Then there’s the Silo Microphone. The idea here is to capture a more natural, unfiltered sound. It's all about precision and providing a sound that’s true to the guitar's character. Particularly for live settings, this mic aims to isolate the guitar's sound while minimizing feedback – a common challenge for performers.

**User Impressions**

From what's being discussed in guitar circles, the feedback is mixed but leans positive. Users appreciate the system’s ability to bring out a clearer, more in-tune sound from their guitars. Its adaptability across different musical styles and settings seems to be a plus.

The HiFi Duet's ability to handle feedback effectively during live performances is especially noted. This feature is crucial for musicians who play in varied environments and need reliability from their gear.

**A Closer Look**

This isn't just another pickup system. The HiFi Duet represents a bridge between traditional acoustic sound and modern amplification technology. Its studio-grade preamp and crossover system are technical additions, but they're there to enhance, not overpower, the guitar’s natural sound.

In conclusion, the HiFi Duet by LR Baggs is drawing attention for its innovative approach to acoustic guitar amplification. It’s a blend of respecting the natural sound of the instrument while bringing in elements that enhance its performance, especially in live settings. For guitarists interested in a nuanced, natural amplification system, the HiFi Duet is certainly worth exploring.

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The HiFi Duet Bridges Tradition and Innovation in Sound

Master live performance with the HiFi Duet's exceptional feedback resistance.

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by B&W

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EF499 and EF500: Hifiman's New Twins Take on Desktop Audio

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