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.

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Nestled in the bustling streets of Toronto, 915 Dupont is crafting a symphony for the senses. This café, situated near Ossington Avenue, is quickly becoming the city's mecca for Hi-Fi enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike.

#### An Audiophile's Dream Destination

The centerpiece of 915 Dupont's allure lies in its extraordinary sound system. Powered by the esteemed McIntosh Labs, known for their unparalleled audio fidelity, the café resonates with the kind of sound quality that can only be described as auditory bliss. This dedication to high-caliber sound is further amplified by a selection of vintage audio gems, including the revered 1970s Yamaha CR820 receiver and the legendary JBL L100 speakers. Such a meticulously curated mix of modern and classic audio equipment not only satiates the audiophile's hunger for quality sound but also infuses the space with a rich, nostalgic ambiance.

#### A Culinary Harmony

Complementing the auditory experience is 915 Dupont's innovative menu. The café offers an array of izakaya-style small plates, infused with a creative Indian flair courtesy of chef Arush Singh. Each dish, from the yogurt-accented beef tartare to the vegan grilled caulilini, is a testament to culinary craftsmanship, echoing the attention to detail found in the café's audio setup.

Beverage-wise, the café doesn’t miss a beat. Its diverse array of drinks includes meticulously selected whiskies, sakes, and cocktails, each inspired by the intricacies of Japanese mixology. The drink offerings, much like the music, are tailored to elevate the sensory experience.

#### A Feast for the Eyes and Ears

The ambiance of 915 Dupont is as meticulously composed as its soundtracks. The interior design, a blend of speakeasy mystique, Japanese garden serenity, and Scandinavian minimalism, provides a backdrop that is both visually and acoustically pleasing. The 1970s-inspired décor, with its wood paneling and verdant plants, harmonizes beautifully with the vintage audio components, creating an environment that's as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears.

#### The Final Note

For those in Toronto seeking a haven that marries exceptional sound with gastronomic innovation, 915 Dupont stands out as a beacon. It's a place where the world of high-fidelity sound meets the artistry of fine cuisine, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary. Whether you're an audiophile, a gourmet, or simply a seeker of unique experiences, 915 Dupont offers a harmonious blend of sounds and flavors that is sure to resonate with all who enter.

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 915 Dupont: A Symphony of Hi-Fi Elegance and Culinary Delights in Toronto

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

Yamaha is a Japanese brand known for manufacturing a wide range of products, including musical instruments, audio equipment, electronics, and motorcycles.

Yamaha

JBL is a brand that specializes in audio equipment and is known for its high-quality speakers and headphones.

Sonic bliss meets culinary mastery at 915 Dupont, a unique Toronto café experience


If you're looking to dip a toe into the world of higher-end speakers without breaking the bank, this guide is for you. We'll put together a solid streaming system for your living room that combines great sound quality with ease of use, all for under $600. Let's focus on the WiiM Amp with its built-in streaming and amplification capabilities, and explore some excellent speaker options to pair with it.

#### Recommended Setup: WiiM Amp + Sony SS-CS5

**1. [WiiM Amp](https://hifi.fan/wii-m-amp)**

-   **Price**: ~$299
-   **Features**: The WiiM Amp is an all-in-one streaming amplifier that supports a wide range of music services like Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, and more. It offers high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/192kHz and delivers 60W per channel at 8 ohms or 120W per channel at 4 ohms.
-   **Usability**: The WiiM Amp simplifies your audio setup by integrating streaming and amplification in one device. Control everything via the WiiM Home app, which connects you to multiple streaming services and allows you to adjust settings, volume, and more.

**2. [Sony SS-CS5 Bookshelf Speakers](https://hifi.fan/sony-ss-cs5)**

![Screenshot 2024-08-06 at 11.51.04.png](https://storage.googleapis.com/hifi-cdn/Screenshot_2024_08_06_at_11_51_04_6aa902039b/Screenshot_2024_08_06_at_11_51_04_6aa902039b.png)

-   **Price**: ~$150
-   **Sound Quality**: The Sony SS-CS5 speakers are known for their balanced and clear sound. They feature a three-driver system, including a 5.12-inch woofer, a 1-inch tweeter, and a 0.75-inch super tweeter, providing a wide frequency response and detailed audio.
-   **Design**: These speakers have a compact and stylish design that fits well in small to medium-sized rooms. Their size makes them easy to place on bookshelves or speaker stands without taking up too much space.

**Total Cost**: ~$449

This setup ensures great sound quality and hassle-free streaming. The WiiM Amp combines streaming and amplification, while the Sony SS-CS5 speakers deliver solid audio performance, making this combo ideal for any small to medium-sized living room.

### Alternative Speaker Options for WiiM Amp

If you want to explore other speakers to pair with the WiiM Amp, here are some great alternatives that also fit within the budget:

**1. Polk Audio T15**

-   **Price**: ~$100
-   **Sound Quality**: The Polk Audio T15 speakers offer a natural and balanced sound, ideal for music and home theater. They feature a 5.25-inch composite driver and a 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter, providing good clarity and detail.
-   **Design**: These speakers have a classic design that blends well with most home décor. They are compact and versatile, suitable for both bookshelf and wall mounting.

**2. Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Bookshelf Speakers**

-   **Price**: ~$160
-   **Sound Quality**: Designed by renowned speaker engineer Andrew Jones, these speakers provide excellent sound quality with a 4-inch structured surface woofer and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter. They are known for their detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
-   **Design**: The curved cabinet design not only looks sleek but also reduces internal standing waves, improving sound quality.

**3. Micca MB42X**

-   **Price**: ~$90
-   **Sound Quality**: The Micca MB42X speakers are well-regarded for their value and sound quality. They feature a 4-inch carbon fiber woofer and a 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter, delivering a balanced and clear sound.
-   **Design**: These speakers have a simple and modern design, making them easy to integrate into any home setup. They are compact and lightweight, ideal for smaller spaces.

### Future Upgrades

If you're willing to stretch your budget further or plan for future upgrades, consider these high-end speakers for an even better audio experience:

**1. KEF Q150**

-   **Price**: ~$400
-   **Sound Quality**: The KEF Q150 speakers deliver exceptional clarity and precision, offering a truly immersive listening experience.
-   **Design**: Sleek and stylish, these speakers are perfect for audiophiles looking to enhance their home audio setup significantly.

**2. Polk Audio R100**

-   **Price**: ~$500
-   **Sound Quality**: Known for their balanced and detailed sound, these speakers are a great upgrade for serious music enthusiasts.
-   **Design**: Their elegant design makes them a beautiful addition to any room.

### Conclusion

For a budget-friendly, high-quality streaming setup, the WiiM Amp and Sony SS-CS5 speakers are a fantastic choice. If you want to consider other speaker options, the Polk Audio T15, Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, and Micca MB42X are all great alternatives that pair well with the WiiM Amp. Each offers unique benefits in sound quality and design, so you can find the perfect fit for your home audio needs. If you're looking to invest more in the future, high-end options like the KEF Q150 or Polk Audio R100 can take your audio experience to the next level. Enjoy your music streaming with top-notch sound without breaking the bank!

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Budget Streaming Setup for Under 500$

WiiM

Sony is a Japanese company that specializes in various electronics products, including HiFi audio equipment.

Sony

Polk Audio is a company known for manufacturing high-quality audio equipment.

Polk Audio

Pioneer is a Japanese company that designs and manufactures electronic products.

Pioneer

KEF is a brand that specializes in high-quality audio equipment, particularly loudspeakers and headphones.

the best budget streaming setup under $500! Explore our recommended WiiM Amp and Sony SS-CS5 speakers combo for top-notch sound quality, ease of use, and seamless streaming. Perfect for your living room

The WiiM Amp is a powerful all-in-one streaming amplifier designed to elevate your home audio experience. Encased in a sleek aluminum shell, this compact device combines high-resolution streaming and robust amplification, delivering up to 60W per channel at 8 ohms or 120W per channel at 4 ohms. With support for a wide range of music services like Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, and more, the WiiM Amp ensures you have access to all your favorite tunes in stunning 24-bit/192kHz quality.

The integrated WiiM Home app offers a user-friendly interface, allowing you to control your music, adjust settings, and sync speakers effortlessly. Whether you're streaming music, connecting your TV via HDMI ARC for a home theater experience, or optimizing sound with the 10-band graphic EQ, the WiiM Amp is your versatile solution for superior audio performance. Plus, with built-in voice control through Alexa, managing your audio system is just a command away. Transform your passive speakers into smart audio powerhouses with the WiiM Amp.

The Sony SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers are designed to deliver an exceptional audio experience at an affordable price. Featuring a three-driver system, these speakers include a 5.12-inch woofer, a 1-inch tweeter, and a 0.75-inch super tweeter, providing a wide frequency response of 53 Hz to 50 kHz. This design ensures rich, detailed sound with clear highs and powerful bass, perfect for a variety of music genres and home audio setups.

Compact and stylish, the Sony SS-CS5 speakers fit seamlessly into any living space. Their versatile design makes them ideal for use on bookshelves, stands, or even as part of a home theater system. Whether you're listening to music, watching movies, or gaming, the Sony SS-CS5 speakers deliver high-fidelity audio that enhances your entertainment experience. Enjoy immersive, room-filling sound with these high-quality, budget-friendly speakers.

SS-CS5


For those of you diving into streaming setups and trying to get the most out of your high-end gear without sacrificing sound quality, here’s a streamlined approach that hits all the right notes without going over $2000. This setup is designed to deliver exceptional audio performance while keeping things straightforward and accessible, perfect for audiophiles who appreciate both form and function.

### Setup: Eversolo DMP-A6 + NAD C 316BEE V2 + Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52

**1. Eversolo DMP-A6**

-   **Price**: ~$850
-   **Details**: This streaming DAC is where it’s at. It handles high-res formats like a champ—think DSD512 and PCM 768kHz. If you’re serious about your digital sources, the DMP-A6 will make sure nothing gets lost in translation. It’s got the right app support too, so you’re not fumbling around trying to get the best out of Tidal or Qobuz. The build quality is solid, and it integrates seamlessly with any high-fidelity system.

**2. NAD C 316BEE V2**

-   **Price**: ~$450
-   **Details**: Don’t sleep on this integrated amp just because it’s NAD’s entry-level. It’s got 40W per channel, but it punches way above its weight class. With a built-in phono stage, you’re covered if you want to spin some vinyl too. This amp is all about keeping it simple and musical, and it pairs perfectly with the Eversolo. NAD’s design philosophy shines through here, delivering a warm, engaging sound that’s perfect for both casual listening and critical sessions.

**3. Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52**

-   **Price**: ~$600
-   **Details**: These Elac bookshelf speakers are the real deal. A 3-way design gives you clarity and separation that’s hard to beat in this price range. Midrange detail? Check. Tight bass? You got it. They’re not flashy, but man, do they deliver when it comes to sound. The Uni-Fi 2.0’s are engineered to provide a balanced, immersive soundstage, making them a standout choice for anyone serious about their audio setup.

**Total Cost**: ~$1900

### Accessories: Cables and Stands

To make sure everything sounds its best, don’t forget the small stuff. Even with a premium setup, the right accessories can make a noticeable difference.

**1. Speaker Cables**

-   **Price**: ~$15
-   **Details**: Basic 16-gauge wire works fine here. You’re not breaking the bank, but it’ll get the job done without degrading the signal. High-quality cables ensure that the audio signal remains clean and intact, preserving the integrity of your music.

**2. Interconnects**

-   **Price**: ~$10
-   **Details**: Grab some decent RCA cables to connect your DAC to the amp. Monoprice does a solid job for not much cash, and they keep the noise down. Investing in well-shielded interconnects reduces the risk of interference, ensuring that your system performs at its best.

**3. Speaker Stands**

-   **Price**: ~$100
-   **Details**: Get your speakers off the floor and at ear level. Sanus adjustable stands are good—they’re sturdy, and they help dial in that sweet spot. Proper placement on quality stands can drastically improve imaging and soundstage, making your setup even more impressive.

**Grand Total**: ~$2025

### Alternative Setup Under $2000

If you’re leaning towards something different but still want to stay within budget, here’s an alternative that keeps the quality high.

**Bluesound Node** + **Yamaha A-S801** + **KEF Q150**

**Bluesound Node**

-   **Price**: ~$600
-   **Details**: Great streamer, solid app, and plays nice with pretty much any setup. The Node supports all major streaming services and is known for its reliability and ease of use, making it a popular choice among audiophiles.

**Yamaha A-S801**

-   **Price**: ~$900
-   **Details**: This integrated amp has power for days, and a solid DAC built in. No fuss, just good sound. Yamaha’s reputation for build quality and performance is well-earned, and the A-S801 delivers on both fronts with authority.

**KEF Q150**

-   **Price**: ~$400
-   **Details**: These speakers give you a wide soundstage and clean detail, perfect for smaller spaces. KEF’s Uni-Q driver array ensures precise imaging and a cohesive sound that’s hard to beat at this price point.

**Total Cost**: ~$1900, leaving a bit for cables and stands.

### Wrap Up

So, there you have it—a couple of setups that’ll get you high-quality streaming without blowing your budget. Whether you go for the Eversolo/NAD/Elac combo or the Bluesound/Yamaha/KEF route, you’re in for some seriously good listening sessions. The key is matching your components well and not skimping on the little things, like decent cables and proper speaker placement. These setups are designed to bring out the best in your music, offering a listening experience that’s both engaging and rewarding. Enjoy the music, because with these setups, it’s going to sound better than ever.

Screenshot 2024-08-31 at 09.33.45.png

Midrange Streaming Setup for Under $2000

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

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

ELAC

Bluesound is a brand that specializes in high-quality wireless audio systems.

Bluesound

The NAD C 316 BEE is an integrated amplifier designed for audio enthusiasts. It offers 40 watts per channel of continuous power and has a sleek and compact design. The amplifier features NAD's patented PowerDrive circuitry, which allows it to deliver dynamic and detailed sound. It has multiple inputs, including a phono input for connecting a turntable. The C 316 BEE also includes a headphone jack and a remote control for convenient operation. Overall, it is a highly regarded amplifier known for its excellent performance and value.

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915 Dupont: A Symphony of Hi-Fi Elegance and Culinary Delights in Toronto

Budget Streaming Setup for Under 500$

Midrange Streaming Setup for Under $2000