NAD is a brand that specializes in high-fidelity audio equipment and electronics.

The NAD 202 is a stereo integrated amplifier designed for home audio systems.


KEF, a leader in acoustic innovation, has recently introduced a new color variant for its celebrated LS60 Wireless Speakers - the striking Carbon Black. This addition expands the color palette to five, including mineral white, royal blue, titanium grey, and British Racing Green. Launched initially in 2022 as part of KEF's 60th-anniversary celebration, these speakers are priced at $6,999.

The LS60 Wireless is not just a visual treat but a marvel of audio engineering. It's the world's first Single Apparent Source wireless system, meaning low, mid, and high frequencies emanate from a single point for precise imaging and accurate sound across a broader area. Central to its design is the 12th Generation Uni-Q with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) driver array, ensuring natural sound with minimal distortion.

Critics rave about the LS60's reference-grade sound quality, dynamics, and full-range extension. The speakers offer comprehensive connectivity, including Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, and stream directly from platforms like Spotify Connect, Tidal, and QPlay. However, they lack multichannel integration and a phono input.

The LS60's design includes a heavy alloy base for stability and simple setup via the KEF Connect app. With onboard amplifiers delivering substantial power, these speakers are an embodiment of high-end audio's future, combining innovative technology, superior sound quality, and a sleek design.

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KEF's Carbon Black LS60 Redefines Wireless Sound

KEF's Carbon Black LS60: Redefining wireless sound with its groundbreaking technology and elegant appearance


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.

Alright, let's take a more down-to-earth look at what's happening with PMC and their move towards eco-friendly vinyl production with Evovinyl.

So, PMC, a big name in loudspeakers from the UK, has decided to shake things up by investing in a project called Evovinyl. It's all about making vinyl records in a way that's kinder to our planet. You know how traditional vinyl is made from PVC, right? That stuff's not great for the environment. It releases some pretty nasty chemicals during its lifecycle, which isn't ideal.

Enter Evovinyl, which is basically a green twist on vinyl production. Instead of using PVC, they're turning to sugar cane. Yep, sugar cane. This isn't just a random choice—it's because sugar cane is a renewable resource, and the process of turning it into vinyl records is way less harmful to Mother Earth. Plus, when it's time to say goodbye to these records, they're compostable, so they won't be hanging around in landfills for centuries.

One of the coolest parts about this whole thing is how it could change the game in terms of energy use. Apparently, using this sugar cane-based material means that pressing plants can run at lower temperatures. This could slash energy use by about 30% if everyone made the switch, and it also speeds up the pressing process by half. Less energy and faster production sound like a win-win.

Now, you might be wondering if these greener records can hold their own against traditional vinyl in terms of sound quality. The answer is a solid yes. Tests by folks who know their stuff, including some of the ears at Abbey Road Studios, have given it the thumbs up. They say it sounds just as good as the old-school records we know and love. Plus, this new material is a bit of a static-fighter, helping keep dust at bay and potentially making your records last longer.

I didn't catch any specific details on price, but it's safe to say that if major labels are looking into it and artists are considering it for their releases, it's got to be competitive. Plus, with the environmental benefits, it might just be worth any extra cost.

In summary, PMC's move with Evovinyl is pretty exciting. It's about making vinyl records that don't just sound good but are also good for the planet. And in today's world, that's something a lot of us can get behind.

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PMC's Bold Move Into Eco-Friendly Vinyl Production

PMC is a British company that specializes in designing and manufacturing high quality loudspeakers and professional monitoring systems. Their products are used in various settings, from professional recording studios to home audio systems. PMC's technology is particularly noted for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) design, which enhances the bass output and audio clarity. Their products cater to audiophiles and professionals seeking accurate and immersive sound reproduction.

Discover PMC's groundbreaking investment in eco-friendly vinyl record production, revolutionizing the music industry with sustainability in mind.

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