DALI is a Danish company that specializes in the production of high-quality audio speakers and headphones.

DALI

DALI Concept 2 is a speaker system manufactured by DALI, a Danish audio company. It is a two-channel stereo system that consists of two separate speakers, typically a floor-standing speaker and a bookshelf speaker. The system is designed to deliver high-quality audio performance and is known for its clarity, detail, and immersive soundstage. It is a popular choice among audio enthusiasts and is often praised for its craftsmanship and audio engineering. The DALI Concept 2 speakers are known for their elegant design, solid construction, and accurate sound reproduction.

Concept 2


**Oslo, Norway**: In a significant move that's set to redefine the high-fidelity audio landscape, Hegel Music Systems has announced the launch of its latest creation - the Hegel H600 integrated amplifier. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Hegel is marking the occasion with what can only be described as an audio masterpiece.

#### Powerhouse Performance

The H600, dubbed as the company's reference integrated amplifier, is a tour de force in the world of high-end audio. Packing a formidable 303 watts per channel into 8 ohms and a remarkable damping factor of 4000, it's designed to drive any speaker with unparalleled confidence and ease. The dual mono design of the H600 mirrors the performance of two mono amps in a single box, a feat of engineering that delivers an unmatched soundstage with a broad dynamic range and deep, controlled bass.

#### Cutting-Edge Technology

A highlight of the H600 is its bit-perfect digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This state-of-the-art component ensures pure audio fidelity, free from any resampling or upsampling. With a large, dedicated power supply and robust shielding against interference, the DAC provides exceptional resolution and smoothness. The amplifier's chassis, crafted from aluminum, adds to its audio performance, offering enhanced stability and reduced vibrations.

#### Streamlined Streaming and Connectivity

Embracing the era of digital music, the H600 comes equipped with an array of streaming options, including UPnP, Airplay 2, Tidal Connect, and Roon Ready compatibility. This broad suite of features ensures that the amplifier is not just a powerhouse of performance but also a hub of convenience and accessibility. Additionally, the amplifier boasts a wide range of analog and digital connections, including True Balanced XLR inputs, USB 32/384 input, and optical inputs, making it a versatile centerpiece for any audio setup.

#### Award-Winning Design

The Hegel H600 isn't just about remarkable technical capabilities; it's also a winner in aesthetics and ease of use. Recently, it received the prestigious EISA award for Best High-End Streaming Amplifier, a testament to its outstanding quality and innovation. The EISA committee lauded the H600 for its upgraded digital stage, bespoke error-cancelling technology, and redesigned preamp stage, all contributing to its organic, compelling performance.

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Discover the Hidden Power of Hegel H600's Dual Mono Design

Hegel's latest innovation, the H600 integrated amplifier, offers a groundbreaking audio experience with exceptional power and clarity.

In a world awash with digital streams and instant downloads, MOONDROP has boldly stepped back to usher in a wave of nostalgia combined with cutting-edge technology through the launch of the DISCDREAM portable CD player. This unique device is not just a nod to the bygone era of compact discs but a sophisticated blend of old-school charm and modern audio tech, designed to appeal to both audiophiles and vintage tech enthusiasts. The DISCDREAM stands out with its ability to play CDs, acting as a digital audio player (DAP) for music files stored on a microSD card, and even doubling as a high-quality DAC when connected to a PC via its USB-C port.

The technical prowess of the DISCDREAM is noteworthy. It features a high-resolution 32-bit DAC capable of delivering pristine audio quality, a testament to MOONDROP's commitment to combining retro aesthetics with contemporary audio fidelity. The inclusion of a powerful headphone amplifier ensures that the device can drive a wide range of headphones, from the most sensitive in-ears to demanding over-ear models, providing a listening experience that's as versatile as it is enriching. Furthermore, the device supports a broad spectrum of audio formats, including MP3, WMA, FLAC, and more, ensuring compatibility with various music libraries.

What sets the DISCDREAM apart is its dedication to high-fidelity sound in a portable format, a rarity in today's market dominated by streaming services. It represents a bridge between the tangible, curated experience of selecting a physical disc and the convenience of portable, high-quality sound. Its robust build, combined with a sleek, intuitive design, harks back to the glory days of portable CD players while pushing the envelope in terms of audio performance and functionality.

This resurgence of interest in vintage audio formats, from cassette players to vinyl records and now CD players, speaks to a broader trend towards the tactile and the tangible in our digital age. It reflects a yearning for a more intimate connection with music, one where album art, liner notes, and the physical act of changing discs or tapes play a part in the listening experience. The DISCDREAM, with its unique blend of retro design and modern technology, taps into this sentiment, offering a refreshing alternative to the ephemeral nature of streaming music. It's a bold statement in the ongoing conversation about the value of quality and craftsmanship in an era of convenience and immediacy.

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The Unexpected Return of the CD Player in the Digital Age with MOONDROP DISCDREAM

Moondrop is a renowned Chinese brand in the audio equipment industry, especially celebrated for its high-quality in-ear monitors (IEMs) and earphones. The brand has made a significant impact in the global audiophile market, known for blending innovative design with exceptional sound quality at an affordable price. Moondrop's products are characterized by their ability to deliver rich, balanced sound experiences, making them a favorite among both casual listeners and serious audiophiles. The brand's commitment to using advanced materials and technologies is evident in their product lineup, which ranges from entry-level options for beginners to sophisticated models for audio enthusiasts. Additionally, Moondrop distinguishes itself with unique aesthetic designs, adding a visual appeal to their acoustically impressive offerings. This combination of technical excellence, affordability, and distinctive style has helped Moondrop establish a strong presence in the international audio community, appealing to a diverse range of users seeking top-tier audio experiences.

Moondrop

Why settle for streaming? MOONDROP DISCDREAM brings your CD collection back to life

This isn't an exhaustive review with numerous tests. Instead, it's an initial attempt to select a phono preamp within a budget from well-known models available on popular platforms like Amazon. While there may be better models or used options within the same price range, this post focuses on first impressions.

Our setup included McIntosh speakers, a custom-made turntable (limited edition but entry-level) with a brand new Ortofon S10 cartridge, a Denon receiver (to stay within the same price range), and a McIntosh headphone tube amp (MHA200) with McIntosh MHP1000 headphones for the final check-up.

The idea for this article stemmed from the need to connect our turntable to a Denon receiver, necessitating a phono preamp. We tested each preamp using tracks from Frank Sinatra, Sade, and The Weeknd to cover a range of vocal and instrumental styles, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.

### Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 (Tube)

![IMG_6540.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/hifi-cdn/IMG_6540_e44acf8231/IMG_6540_e44acf8231.jpeg)

**Description and Sound Characteristics** 

The [Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 (Tube)](https://hifi.fan/pro-ject-tube-box-s2) stands out for its warm, engaging sound. It delivers a rich and textured sound signature, with an excellent soundstage that creates an immersive listening experience. The vocals are centered and clear, giving a sense of presence and involvement. The instrument separation is outstanding, making each component of the music distinctly audible. This preamp excels in providing a spacious auditory experience, extending the sound well beyond the speakers. Additionally, its compact and aesthetically pleasing design makes it a perfect companion to sit next to your turntable.

**Impressions** 

Listening to Frank Sinatra through the Tube Box S2 was a revelation. His vocals felt as if they were right in front of you, with the ensemble clearly positioned behind him. The bass guitar in general listening sessions was clear and vibrant, with a sense of movement between the speakers and noticeable reverberation and echo. The overall engagement was high, making you want to keep listening.

**Pros and Cons**

-   **Pros**: Warm, engaging sound with excellent separation and soundstage. Compact and attractive design.
-   **Cons**: None noted in this initial impression.

### Cambridge Audio Alva Duo

![IMG_6545.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/hifi-cdn/IMG_6545_5e75b92d0f/IMG_6545_5e75b92d0f.jpeg)

**Description and Sound Characteristics**  

The [Cambridge Audio Alva Duo](https://hifi.fan/cambridge-audio-alva-duo) offers clarity and precision, though it may lack some of the warmth and detail found in the Tube Box S2. It provides a clear sound that feels somewhat confined between the speakers. For its price, it delivers good performance, with vocals that are clear but might miss some mid-range or high details. The separation is adequate but not exceptional, sometimes sounding too pure and lacking colorization. It is relatively large and may require a separate shelf in a vertical rack. On the plus side, it includes an integrated headphone amplifier and supports both MC and MM cartridges, adding versatility.

**Impressions** 

Playing Sade on the Alva Duo revealed a slightly dull sound with no pronounced bass. While the sound was clear and detailed, it lacked the extension and separation that the Tube Box S2 offered. In general listening, the detail retrieval was good, especially noticeable in the cymbals, but it lacked some richness and presence in more complex musical passages.

**Pros and Cons**

-   **Pros**: Clear and detailed sound, good value for the price. Integrated headphone amplifier and support for both MC and MM cartridges.
-   **Cons**: May lack warmth and engagement, not as good separation as the Tube. Larger size may require additional space.

### Pro-Ject Phono Box E

![IMG_6550.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/hifi-cdn/IMG_6550_218e952b69/IMG_6550_218e952b69.jpeg)

**Description and Sound Characteristics** 

The [Pro-Ject Phono Box E](https://hifi.fan/pro-ject-phono-box-e) is a budget-friendly option that still offers good detail, particularly in the midrange. It provides a satisfactory performance considering its price, with a soundstage that is sufficient but not as expansive as the Tube Box S2. The overall engagement is lower, lacking the richness and presence of the higher-end models. Vocals are clear, but the sound might feel a bit constrained.

**Visual and Functional Aspects** 

Visually, the Phono Box E is compact and easy to hide, making it a practical choice for those with limited space. In terms of functionality, it lacks a standby button, which might be a drawback for some users. However, it remains a solid choice for those on a budget.

**Pros and Cons**

-   **Pros**: Good detail for the price, compact size.
-   **Cons**: Lacks the richness and separation of higher-end models.

### Listening Experience with McIntosh Headphones and McIntosh Tube Amp MHA200

![IMG_6553.jpeg](https://storage.googleapis.com/hifi-cdn/IMG_6553_eb166c1a8b/IMG_6553_eb166c1a8b.jpeg)

Using McIntosh MHP1000 headphones and the McIntosh headphone tube amp MHA200, the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 offered a warm, engaging sound that was not tiring and felt natural and pleasant. With the Tube phono preamp, you just want to listen and listen; it is highly engaging. The Cambridge Audio Alva Duo was clear and detailed but sometimes felt too digital, lacking the natural warmth of the Tube. The Pro-Ject Phono Box E provided good performance for its price but lacked the richness and separation of the other two.

Listening to the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo with the McIntosh setup revealed a clear but somewhat digital sound, lacking engagement. The dynamics were good, but it could feel sharp at times. In contrast, the Tube on the McIntosh setup was the most musical and pleasant among the tested units, offering a soft, natural sound that did not cause fatigue. The Cambridge might perform better with mid-range speakers due to its clear, precise sound, while the Tube excels with high-quality components and headphones, providing a more musical experience.

### Conclusion

In our final comparison using the McIntosh headphone tube amp and headphones, we were impressed with the sound of the Tube phono preamp.

-   **[Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 (Tube)](https://hifi.fan/pro-ject-tube-box-s2)**: Best for those seeking a warm, engaging sound with excellent separation and soundstage. Its compact and attractive design is an added bonus.
-   **[Cambridge Audio Alva Duo](https://hifi.fan/cambridge-audio-alva-duo)**: A solid choice for clear, detailed sound but might lack warmth and engagement. Its integrated headphone amplifier and support for both MC and MM cartridges add versatility.
-   **[Pro-Ject Phono Box E](https://hifi.fan/pro-ject-phono-box-e)**: Best budget option, offering good performance for the price but missing some richness and separation compared to the higher-end models.

If your equipment isn't top-tier, the Pro-Ject Phono Box E is a good pick. If you’re unsure about choosing between MM or MC cartridges, the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo is a versatile option. However, for the best sound, aesthetics, size, and performance, we highly recommend the Tube amp. It offers an upgrade path as you improve other components of your system.

Hope this was helpful for everyone!

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First Impressions of Phono Preamps: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, Cambridge Audio Alva Duo, and Pro-Ject Phono Box E

Pro-Ject is a brand that specializes in manufacturing high-quality turntables and audio equipment.

Pro-Ject

Cambridge Audio is a brand that specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality audio equipment.

Cambridge Audio

McIntosh Laboratory, Inc., often referred to simply as McIntosh, is an esteemed American brand renowned for its high-quality audio equipment. Founded in 1949 in Binghamton, New York, McIntosh has established itself as a pioneer in the high-fidelity audio industry. The brand is synonymous with enduring build quality, aesthetic elegance, and unparalleled sound performance, making it a choice of audiophiles and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Known for its distinctive design, McIntosh products feature signature black glass front panels, aluminum end caps, and the iconic "McIntosh Blue" watt meters, which have become a symbol of audio excellence. Their product range encompasses a wide array of audio equipment, including amplifiers, preamplifiers, speakers, turntables, and other audio accessories, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and acoustic perfection.

McIntosh's dedication to producing high-quality sound reproduction is evident in their use of advanced technologies and precision engineering. Their products are often the result of extensive research and development, ensuring that they not only meet but exceed industry standards.

In addition to sound quality, McIntosh is committed to the longevity and durability of its products. Many McIntosh units from decades past are still in use today, a testament to their build quality and the company's commitment to sustainability through longevity.

Whether for home audio systems, professional studios, or luxury car audio, McIntosh provides an audio experience that is both immersive and emotionally engaging, offering a level of performance that is as close to the original recording as possible. Their legacy and ongoing innovation continue to set the standard in high-end audio, making McIntosh a prestigious and revered name in the world of hi-fi audio systems.

McIntosh

Our initial impressions of the Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, Cambridge Audio Alva Duo, and Pro-Ject Phono Box E phono preamps

The Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is a favorite among audiophiles who appreciate the warm, rich sound that only a tube phono preamp can deliver. This compact and aesthetically pleasing preamp is designed to sit perfectly next to your turntable, bringing an analog warmth and depth to your vinyl records.

The Tube Box S2 features dual mono configuration and high-quality ECC83 tubes, ensuring an immersive listening experience with excellent soundstage and instrument separation. The vocals are textured and centered, creating a sense of presence and involvement that keeps you engaged with your music.

Key features include:

Dual Mono Configuration: Ensures superior channel separation and audio clarity.

High-Quality ECC83 Tubes: Delivers warm, rich sound with exceptional detail and dynamics.
Adjustable Gain: Flexible settings to match different cartridges for optimal performance.
Compact Design: Fits neatly next to your turntable, adding a stylish touch to your audio setup.

The Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is ideal for those who seek a warm, engaging sound with excellent separation and soundstage. Its compact size and attractive design make it a perfect addition to any vinyl enthusiast's setup. Audiophiles will appreciate the enhanced musicality and presence that this tube phono preamp brings to their record collection.

Tube Box S2

The Pro-Ject Phono Box E is an excellent entry-level phono preamp that offers great value without compromising on sound quality. Designed for those who are new to the world of vinyl or on a budget, this compact preamp provides the essential features needed to enjoy your record collection with clarity and detail.

Despite its affordable price, the Phono Box E delivers good midrange detail and a satisfactory soundstage. It’s designed to work with Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges, making it a simple yet effective solution for connecting your turntable to a line-level input on your amplifier or receiver.

Key features include:

Budget-Friendly: High-quality sound at an affordable price, perfect for those new to vinyl.

MM Cartridge Compatibility: Optimized for Moving Magnet cartridges, providing clear and accurate playback.
Compact Design: Easily fits into any setup and can be hidden away due to its small size.
Simple Setup: Easy to install and use, making it ideal for beginners.

The Pro-Ject Phono Box E is a solid choice for vinyl enthusiasts looking for an affordable phono preamp that doesn’t skimp on performance. Its compact design and ease of use make it a practical addition to any audio setup, offering a taste of high-fidelity sound without breaking the bank.

Phono Box E

MHA200

MHP1000

The Cambridge Audio Alva Duo Phono Preamp is a must-have for audiophiles seeking precision and clarity in their vinyl listening experience. Compatible with both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, the Alva Duo ensures that your records sound exceptional, no matter your cartridge choice.

This versatile preamp delivers a clear and detailed sound that brings out the subtle nuances of your favorite tracks. The integrated headphone amplifier allows for an intimate listening experience, perfect for those who enjoy the depth and detail that headphones can provide. Its modern design seamlessly integrates into your existing setup, although it may require dedicated shelf space due to its robust build.

Key features include:

MM and MC Compatibility: Flexibility to use either cartridge type for a versatile listening experience.
Integrated Headphone Amplifier: Exceptional clarity and detail through your headphones for personal enjoyment.

Precision Engineering: High-quality components deliver clear, precise sound, revealing the finest details in your music.

User-Friendly Design: Easy to set up and use, ideal for both beginners and experienced audiophiles.

Concept 2

by DALI

Interesting articles

Discover the Hidden Power of Hegel H600's Dual Mono Design

The Unexpected Return of the CD Player in the Digital Age with MOONDROP DISCDREAM

First Impressions of Phono Preamps: Pro-Ject Tube Box S2, Cambridge Audio Alva Duo, and Pro-Ject Phono Box E