Grundig is a consumer electronics brand that offers a wide range of products including audio equipment, televisions, home appliances, and personal care products.

Grundig

Audiorama 2000


High End Munich 2024 is set to feature the SOUNDSCLEVER initiative, a highlight for audiophiles looking for high-quality audio systems without the high price tag. SOUNDSCLEVER offers a unique standard and guide for visitors, showcasing complete audio systems that deliver exceptional sound performance, all for less than EUR 5,000.

**Entry-Level Systems with Premium Performance**

SOUNDSCLEVER presents an opportunity for visitors to experience technical and musical excellence in audio systems assembled with budget-conscious audiophiles in mind. Throughout the HIGH END exhibition, various industry professionals will present their contributions to this initiative, adhering to the price limit but without restrictions on the configuration. This flexibility allows for a wide range of system types, from strictly digital setups to high-end analog configurations, or combinations of both within one hi-fi system.

**Navigating the Exhibition**

Attendees can easily find SOUNDSCLEVER systems across the exhibition, guided by direction signs adorned with the SOUNDSCLEVER logo. Here are some exhibitors showcasing these systems:

-   **Lindemann** (Atrium 4.2, F231b): Features the Woodnote Combo network player, Lindemann Move mini speakers, and high-quality cables, totaling EUR 4358.
-   **audioNEXT** (Atrium 4.1, E123): Includes the eversolo DMP-A6 Streaming-DAC, eversolo AMP-F2 amplifier, and EPOS ES-7N speakers, with a system total of EUR 4921.
-   **Sonoro audio** (Halle 2 Stand J04): Showcases the sonoro PLATINUM turntable, Sonoro MEASTRO quantum receiver, and sonoro GRAND ORCHESTRA speakers, with a total of EUR 4996.
-   **Custom Audio** (Halle 2 G17): Features the Xtonebox 121ST turntable, Xtonebox Silver-6011 amplifier, and Xtonebox S-10C speakers, totaling EUR 4470.
-   **ELAC** (Atrium 4.1 F103): Presents the ELAC Miracord 50 turntable, ELAC DEBUT CONNEX DCB41 active speakers, and ELAC DEBUT S10 subwoofer, totaling EUR 1417.

**Why SOUNDSCLEVER?**

The SOUNDSCLEVER initiative not only makes high-end audio more accessible but also educates and encourages visitors to explore how exceptional sound can be achieved within a reasonable budget. It's an ideal platform for newcomers to high fidelity and seasoned audiophiles alike to discover systems that provide a gateway to superior audio experiences without the hefty investment typically associated with high-end setups.

[More details ...](https://www.highendsociety.de/files/highend/soundsclever/HE23%20SoundsClever_web.pdf)

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SOUNDSCLEVER at High End Munich 2024: Affordable High-Fidelity Systems

Lindemann is a German audio brand that produces high-quality audio equipment such as amplifiers, digital-to-analog converters, and speakers.

Lindemann

audioNEXT

Epos is a brand that specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality audio equipment, including speakers and headphones.

Epos

Sonoro is a German audio brand known for their high-quality audio products such as radios and music systems.

Sonoro

Custom Audio

ELAC is a brand known for its high-quality HiFi audio products.

ELAC

Visit High End Munich 2024 to see SOUNDSCLEVER's showcase of exceptional yet affordable audio systems by top brands like Lindemann and Sonoro, all under EUR 5,000


So, you've stumbled upon a Super Audio CD (SACD) at your local library's sale. It features an iconic album that you can't wait to spin on your trusty old CD player. Before you part with your hard-earned dollar, however, you may wonder: "Is this SACD compatible with my CD player?"

In a world awash in digital streaming, SACDs may seem like relics. However, they offer exceptional audio quality that continues to draw aficionados of high-fidelity sound. To determine whether an SACD will play on your CD player, it's crucial to understand the intricate world of SACD compatibility.

## What is SACD?

Super Audio CD (SACD) is a high-resolution audio disc format developed by Sony and Philips, the same companies that created the standard CD. SACD offers superior sound quality thanks to its use of Direct Stream Digital (DSD) technology. However, this enhanced quality necessitates specialized hardware, leaving many to wonder if SACDs can be played on traditional CD players.

## Hybrid vs. Non-Hybrid SACDs

**Hybrid SACDs**

Most SACDs produced today are "hybrid" discs, meaning they contain two separate layers:

1.  The SACD layer, which can only be read by an SACD player
2.  A standard CD layer, which can be read by any CD player

This dual-layer approach allows for backward compatibility with standard CD players. When inserted into a regular CD player, the player will default to reading the CD layer, while an SACD player will choose the high-definition SACD layer.

**Identifying a Hybrid SACD**

To determine if an SACD is hybrid, you can often look at the disc's packaging. Hybrid SACDs frequently have both the SACD and CD logos displayed prominently. Additionally, the term 'Hybrid' or 'SACD Hybrid' is often mentioned on the packaging, especially on the spine card.

**Non-Hybrid SACDs**

These are SACDs that contain only the DSD layer and cannot be played on a regular CD player. Non-hybrid SACDs often only display the SACD logo and may specifically state that an SACD player is required.

## Manufacturing Date Matters

Early SACDs, particularly those released around or before the year 2000, are less likely to be hybrid discs. If the SACD in question was made in 2002, there's a higher likelihood it's a hybrid, but it's not guaranteed.

## Other Options for Playback

If you're set on experiencing the exceptional audio quality of SACDs but don't own an SACD player, you're not entirely out of luck. Many Blu-ray players can also play SACDs, as can some specialized high-end audio equipment.

## Conclusion

SACDs offer a high-resolution audio experience that is a step above standard CDs. However, compatibility issues can arise if you don't have the right equipment. Always check for indicators like dual-layering and manufacturing dates to ensure that your SACD can be played on your existing CD player. If not, it might be time to consider diving into the world of high-end audio equipment—a move that could redefine your listening experience.

So, is that SACD from the library sale worth buying? If it’s a hybrid and you can play it on your existing equipment, absolutely. Even if it turns out to be non-hybrid, at a dollar, it might be the perfect excuse to upgrade to an SACD-compatible player. After all, high-fidelity audio is a world worth exploring.

Design of a combined logo where the SACD logo seamlessly transitions to the CD logo with a bold question mark acting as the bridge between them

Design of a combined logo where the SACD logo seamlessly transitions to the CD logo.png

Understanding SACD Compatibility with CD Players

Explore the intricate world of Super Audio CDs (SACDs) and their compatibility with traditional CD players. Learn about hybrid vs. non-hybrid SACDs, manufacturing dates, and alternative playback options to enhance your high-fidelity audio experience.


Stepping into the world of high-end audio, the Classé Delta Pre MK II preamplifier commands attention not only with its striking appearance but also with the depth of its capabilities. This is not just another component in your audio system; it is a statement of serious intent from an audiophile, priced at around $12,000 USD. For those already in the Classé ecosystem and looking for an upgrade path, the MK II is available for $3000 USD, providing a significant step up without the need to start from scratch.

What sets the Delta Pre MK II apart is its meticulous attention to sonic detail. Imagine tailoring your sound with 0.25dB precision, allowing for the most minute adjustments to perfectly match your listening preferences or room acoustics. It's like having the ability to paint with sound, where every stroke is finely tuned to your taste.

The preamplifier doesn't stop there; it presents a wealth of features geared towards achieving unparalleled sound quality. With support for both mono and stereo subwoofers and advanced frequency and slope control, it offers a rich, textured bass experience that can be precisely dialed in. For those who love to fine-tune and adjust, the five-band digital parametric equalizer provides a playground for shaping your sound.

A notable modern feature is its ability to play high-resolution music through HEOS, ensuring that your digital music collection, whether stored or streamed, is rendered with impeccable detail and clarity. The Delta Pre MK II's design is also a blend of function and luxury, featuring an elegant anodized aluminum chassis and an intuitive touchscreen display, making every interaction a pleasure.

In terms of connectivity, this preamplifier acts as a central hub for both digital and analog sources, boasting a wide range of inputs and outputs. Its built-in DAC, capable of handling up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD512, and MQA files, stands out for its versatility and quality, making it a future-proof solution for all high-resolution audio formats.

**Key Features:**

-   Precision volume control in 0.25dB steps
-   Support for mono and stereo subwoofers
-   Advanced five-band digital parametric equalization
-   HEOS integration for high-resolution music streaming
-   Built-in DAC capable of handling up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD512, and MQA files
-   Wide range of inputs and outputs

**Technical Specifications:**

-   Dimensions: 438mm (W) x 432mm (D) x 108mm (H)
-   Weight: 12.7kg
-   Power consumption: 30W (idle), 60W (max)
-   Input sensitivity: 2.5Vrms (RCA), 5Vrms (XLR)
-   Output voltage: 2Vrms (RCA), 4Vrms (XLR)
-   Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz (+/-0.2dB)
-   Signal-to-noise ratio: 100dB (A-weighted)
-   Total harmonic distortion: 0.005% (20Hz - 20kHz)

**Conclusion:**

The Classé Delta Pre MK II preamplifier is a no-compromise solution for audiophiles seeking the ultimate in sound quality and control. Its meticulous attention to detail, extensive feature set, and elegant design make it a worthy centerpiece for any high-end audio system.

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Classé Delta Pre MK II Preamplifier: A Detailed Look

Classé is a brand that specializes in high-end audio equipment.

Classé

Hear your music in stunning detail with the Classé Delta Pre MK II and its high-res audio support.

Audiorama 2000

by Grundig

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Interesting articles

SOUNDSCLEVER at High End Munich 2024: Affordable High-Fidelity Systems

Understanding SACD Compatibility with CD Players

Classé Delta Pre MK II Preamplifier: A Detailed Look