Nikko

ATD-I


  
Shanling, a respected name in the high-fidelity audio landscape, has recently introduced their latest creation, the H2. This portable DAC/AMP with an integrated MicroSD card player marks a notable advancement in their H series.

The H2's design philosophy emphasizes compactness without sacrificing the powerful features that Shanling is known for. It retains the core system platform that users admired in the H5 and H7 models, ensuring a seamless and familiar user experience.

One of the key highlights of the H2 is its USB DAC mode, powered by the XMOS XU208 chip. This feature offers full high-resolution audio support, ensuring that the nuances and depth of the music are faithfully reproduced. Additionally, the H2 steps into the realm of wireless connectivity with its Bluetooth 5.0 DAC mode, supporting advanced codecs like LDAC and AAC, which are crucial for maintaining sound quality in wireless settings.

A notable aspect of the H2 is its versatile dual headphone output. It features both 3.5mm Single-Ended and 4.4mm Balanced outputs, catering to different headphone requirements and preferences. The balanced output is particularly impressive, capable of delivering up to 680 mW @ 32 Ohm, which speaks to its ability to drive a wide range of headphones.

Under the hood, the H2 is equipped with the Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC, complemented by SG-Micro headphone amplifiers. This combination ensures a rich, detailed sound output, which is a fundamental requirement for any audiophile-grade device.

Furthermore, the H2 is designed for portability and ease of use. It sports a 1-inch screen, providing essential information at a glance. Despite its robust feature set, the H2 maintains a compact form factor, measuring 71.5 x 100 x 21.5 mm and weighing 185 g, making it a convenient companion for on-the-go audio experiences.

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any portable device, and the H2 doesn't disappoint with up to 12 hours of usage on a single charge. This makes it an ideal choice for extended listening sessions, whether you're commuting, traveling, or simply enjoying music at home.

Priced at 169 USD, the H2 presents itself as a compelling option for those who seek high-quality audio in a portable and affordable package. For more detailed information, enthusiasts and potential users can visit Shanling's official website. This release is a testament to Shanling's commitment to delivering audio excellence in innovative and user-friendly formats, continuing to make a mark in the world of high-fidelity audio equipment.

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Shanling H2: Elevating Your Audio Journey with Both 3.5mm and 4.4mm Balanced Outputs

Explore Hi-Res audio with Shanling H2's XMOS XU208 chip, blending tech and fidelity.


The term "remastered" often captures the attention and imagination of audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The promise of a cleaner, richer, and more detailed sound experience is compelling. However, remastering is a complex process that can either enhance or deteriorate the quality of an audio track. It's essential to understand what remastering entails and how to sift through the good, the bad, and the ugly of remastered versions.

### The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Remasters

#### The Process of Remastering

Remastering involves taking original audio tapes and transferring them to a digital format. The process can correct errors, improve sound quality, and sometimes even add new elements. However, these improvements are not guaranteed; the end result is contingent on the skill and intent of the engineers.

#### The Loudness War

One of the most contentious issues surrounding remasters is the so-called "loudness war." This refers to the tendency of producers to compress the dynamic range of a track to make it as loud as possible, sacrificing audio quality for volume. This can be especially jarring for audiophiles who have high-end equipment capable of capturing a wide dynamic range.

#### The "Sacriligious" Alterations

Beyond the loudness war, some remasters take the liberty of altering the original tracks in ways that many consider disrespectful to the original work. The use of auto-tune on classic vocal performances or changing the instrumentation are examples of these kinds of alterations.

### Vintage Pressings and Audiophile Labels

#### The Allure of Original Pressings

For those cautious of the possible pitfalls in remastered versions, vintage pressings—especially from periods like the early '80s—are highly prized. These pressings were often made with a greater dynamic range and are generally considered to offer a more authentic listening experience.

#### Specialty Audiophile Labels

Companies like MoFi (Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab) specialize in high-quality remastering that respects the original audio. They often use the original master tapes and employ meticulous care in the remastering process, making them a preferred choice for audiophiles.

### The Role of Equipment

The equipment used for playback can significantly affect how a remastered track sounds. Higher-end equipment can make a poor remaster sound decent, or a good remaster sound extraordinary. For example, using a quality DAC and network streamer like the Eversolo DMP-A6 can dramatically improve your listening experience.

### Conclusion

In the intricate world of audio remastering, not all remasters are created equal. For audiophiles and discerning listeners, the key is to sift through the multitude of options to find those that respect and enhance the essence of the original recording. Whether you find solace in vintage pressings or place your trust in reputable audiophile labels, understanding the nuances of remastering can help you make informed choices that elevate your auditory experience.

Photo montage showcasing a vintage vinyl record on the left and a digital audio workstation on the right.

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The Complex World of Audio Remastering

Delve into the intricacies of audio remastering. Learn what makes a remaster truly great, how to navigate the pitfalls of poor remasters, and discover the role of equipment in shaping your auditory 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

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by Nikko

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