Linn is a brand that specializes in high-end audio products, including speakers and music systems.

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Akurate C*200


Korf Audio is set to make a significant impact at this year's Munich High End Expo, scheduled for May 9-12, 2024. The company will introduce its new flagship TA-AF series of tonearms, which incorporate advanced ceramic materials and aerospace-grade technology to enhance the vinyl listening experience.

**Innovative Design for Enhanced Audio Performance**

The TA-AF series, including the 9-inch TA-AF9 and the 10-inch TA-AF10 models, features significant advancements in design and materials. These tonearms use ceramic components for critical parts and aerospace-grade flexure bearings, aiming to provide vinyl enthusiasts with playback of unmatched smoothness and depth. Alex Korf, co-founder of Korf Audio, explained that these innovations offer a grain-free smooth sound, with increased clarity, better low-frequency response, and deeper silences. These improvements expand the breadth and depth of the stereo image, enhancing the overall listening experience.

**Accessible High-End Audio Solutions**

Aligning with the growing vinyl market, which is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, Korf Audio's new series makes high-quality analogue sound more accessible. Through innovative design and strategic industry collaborations, Korf Audio has managed to lower the entry price, making top-tier vinyl playback achievable for a broader audience. This initiative allows more enthusiasts worldwide to enjoy perfectionist vinyl reproduction without the high cost typically associated with similar high-end audio equipment.

**Experiencing Korf Audio at the Munich High End Expo**

Visitors to the Munich High End Expo can explore the full range of Korf tonearms at Halle 2, booth G08. Additionally, the TA-AF9 model will be featured in the Engstrøm room, A4.2 F219, showcasing the synergy between Korf's tonearms and high-quality audio systems. The new series is available for immediate ordering through Korf Audio’s worldwide network of dealers and directly from their website, with prices starting at 3200 Euro.

**About Korf Audio**

Founded in Klosterneuburg, Austria, Korf Audio has consistently merged traditional high-fidelity principles with contemporary technology to offer superb quality sound reproduction at competitive prices. The company's dedication to innovation continues to influence the global audiophile community and set new standards in the audio industry.

This year's Munich High End Expo is an excellent opportunity for audiophiles and industry professionals to experience firsthand the latest advancements from Korf Audio, further solidifying the company's position as a leader in high-end audio solutions.

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Korf Audio Introduces New Flagship Ceramic Tonearms at Munich High End Expo

Korf Audio is a boutique audio brand specializing in high-end audio equipment.

Korf Audio

Korf Audio unveils the TA-AF series at the Munich High End Expo, setting new standards in vinyl playback with ceramic tonearms and aerospace technology


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.

In the ever-evolving landscape of high-fidelity audio, the Shanling CD-T35 stands as a beacon of technological advancement and a nod to the nostalgic past. This flagship CD player and streamer has stirred a mix of emotions within the audiophile community, with discussions ranging from its design and features to its price and market positioning.

The design of the CD-T35, with its unique three-legged structure, has caught the eye of many enthusiasts. Some see it as a beautiful homage to the legendary CD-T300, appreciating the bold aesthetic that differentiates it from the crowd. Others, however, have likened it to artifacts from science fiction, humorously comparing it to early console designs or futuristic gadgets. Regardless of the varied opinions, it's clear that the CD-T35's design has made a strong impression, eliciting reactions that span the spectrum from awe to amusement.

The inclusion of the Philips CD-Pro 2 transport and AKM AK4499EQ DACs has been a point of significant discussion. The choice of these components has been lauded by many as a wise decision, given their reputable history and proven performance in delivering top-notch sound quality. This blend of vintage and modernity is seen as a testament to Shanling's dedication to providing an unrivaled listening experience.

However, the CD-T35's hefty price tag has sparked debates on value and accessibility. Some audiophiles express that while the device is intriguing and potentially groundbreaking, the absence of features like SACD support and the high cost make it less compelling. There's a sense that for such a premium, one would expect a more comprehensive feature set to justify the investment.

The limited availability of only 99 units has also been a topic of conversation. For some, this exclusivity adds to the allure, making the CD-T35 a coveted item among collectors and enthusiasts. Others view it as a marketing strategy, questioning the practicality and demand for such a niche product in a market filled with alternatives.

Shanling's venture into the super high-end space with the CD-T35 has raised eyebrows. While some appreciate the bold move and the company's long-standing reputation in the industry, others are skeptical about its success in a segment dominated by more established and traditional high-end brands. The concern is whether Shanling can truly compete and whether the CD-T35 can find its place among the discerning ears of high-end audiophiles.

Despite the mixed reactions, the CD-T35 has undeniably ignited a conversation about what the future of high-fidelity audio should look like. It challenges the norms, combining the charm of the past with the possibilities of the future. As it stands, the CD-T35 is a polarizing figure in the audiophile community, a symbol of Shanling's ambitious vision, and a topic of lively debate among those who appreciate the finer nuances of sound. Whether it will soar to the heights of its predecessors or not, the CD-T35 has already made its mark as a controversial yet fascinating addition to the world of high-end audio.

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The Exclusive World of Shanling CD-T35 Limited Edition Marvel

Shanling is a brand known for its high-fidelity audio products, including portable music players, amplifiers, and DACs.

Shanling

Shanling CD-T35, where every note tells a story, and every song is a journey into pure sound

Akurate C*200

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