---
title: "All 70 Reviews: Headphones, DACs, Amps & Speakers"
description: "70 long-form audiophile reviews: headphones, speakers, DACs, amps, sources, accessories. Scored against a published reference list. Never sponsored."
url: "https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/"
type: "website"
author: "Jakub Charkiewicz"
---

> Markdown rendering of https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/
> Canonical URL to cite: https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/
> Generated from the published page. Text and links only; see the HTML for layout.

Breadcrumb: [Home](https://theaudiostuff.com/) > Reviews

# Every review we have published, on one scale. {#reviews-title}

70 long-form audiophile reviews across hi-fi headphones, loudspeakers, DACs, headphone and integrated amplifiers, network streamers and source components, plus the cables and accessories that connect them. Every one is scored on the same 0-10 scale against a published reference list, and none is sponsored.

Verdicts are one of five tiers - **Reference**, **Highly Recommended**, **Recommended**, **Mixed**, or **Pass** - and each tier owns a [published score band](https://theaudiostuff.com/about/#verdict-scale). Filter by category, price and sound signature below.

Level at the top of the list on 9.3/10: [HIFIMAN HE1000se](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-he1000se/) and [HIFIMAN Serenade](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-serenade/). Rank the list by score

Skip to all 70 reviews

Pick up where you left off

## All reviews {#list-heading}

[All](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/) [Headphones](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/headphones/) [Speakers](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/speakers/) [DACs](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/dacs/) [Headphone Amps](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/headphone-amps/) [Speaker Amps & Preamps](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/speaker-amps/) [Sources](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/sources/) [Accessories](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/accessories/)

Filtering by verdict:

**Filter by sound signature** {#sig-disclosure}

Auto-derived from each review's language - the same read as its radar chart. Pick a leaning on any row; combine rows to narrow the list.

**Filter by price** {#spec-disclosure}

Filter the whole catalogue by price bracket - only brackets that occur are shown. Form factor, driver, impedance, and connectivity filters live on each category page; pick a category above to use them.

Price

![The Henry Audio DA 256 seen from the front and side: a low brushed aluminum box with the engraved Henry Audio logo, a solid wood base underneath, and one tiny LED beside a USB-C port on the front plate](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/henry-audio-da-256-full-unit-1152w.avif) DACs DA 256 Score 8.2 out of 10, Recommended

Henry Audio DA 256 Review: A €1,600 Open-Source DAC That Skips XLR on Purpose

Twenty years of one engineer's work in a €1,600 box: a published schematic and firmware, reclocked coax and optical, RCA only, PCM to 24-bit/192 kHz, and every omission deliberate.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **€1,600 $1,730 approx.** Sep 19, 2026 8 minute read [Read the DA 256 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/henry-audio-da-256/)

![The Austrian Audio OC16 alone on a stand, front on: the flat black slab body, the Austrian Audio logo, the two-position high-pass switch above it, and the CKR6 capsule visible through the open mesh basket](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/austrian-audio-oc16-front-on-stand-1152w.avif) Sources OC16 Score 8.7 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Austrian Audio OC16 Review: A $449 Condenser With a Hand-Built Vienna Capsule

A $449 cardioid condenser built around the CKR6, a ceramic-ring capsule hand-assembled and measured in Vienna: 148 dB max SPL, 14 dB(A) self-noise, one high-pass filter.

Bright, analytical

Price **$449** Sep 15, 2026 8 minute read [Why the OC16 earned 8.7/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/austrian-audio-oc16/)

![The FIFINE K688 dynamic microphone stood on a desk stand, front on, with the foam windscreen fitted over the capsule and the FIFINE wordmark on the black body below the elastic shock mount](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/fifine-k688-mic-hero-1152w.avif) Sources K688 Score 7.2 out of 10, Recommended

FIFINE K688 Review: A $69 XLR and USB Broadcast Mic

A dynamic broadcast microphone with both XLR and USB-C outputs, so the audio interface is already inside it: cardioid rejection, 130 dB max SPL, on-body gain and mute.

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$68.99** Aug 19, 2026 7 minute read [Read the K688 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/fifine-k688/)

![The Network Router UEF on a wooden rack, its woven carbon fiber lid catching the light above an aluminum rear panel carrying the power inlet, ground post and ethernet ports](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/synergistic-network-router-rear-3q-1152w.avif) Accessories Network Router UEF Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

Synergistic Research Network Router UEF Review: Does a $3,000 Router Improve Sound?

A wired-only audiophile router with a linear power supply, EM cell, ULF generator and carbon fiber voicing. In my system it lowered the noise floor on everything I stream.

Price **From $2,995** Aug 5, 2026 8 minute read [Read the Network Router UEF review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/synergistic-research-network-router-uef/)

![The top corner of an Ortvik Parametric Tower in natural oak, its wavy slats standing proud of the panel against a plain wall](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/ortvik-parametric-tower-slat-profile-1152w.avif) Accessories Parametric Tower Score 8.5 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Ortvik Parametric Tower Review: An Acoustic Panel and Diffuser

A freestanding acoustic tower that scatters and absorbs at the same time - handmade Czech oak over a recycled PET felt core, placed wherever the room needs it.

Price **Varies** Aug 2, 2026 8 minute read [Why the Parametric Tower earned 8.5/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/ortvik-parametric-tower/)

![The HIFIMAN HE1000se in side profile on a stand: a large egg-shaped open-back planar cup with a silver aluminium frame, a wood-veneer rim and the Window Shade grille, hanging below the black leather suspension headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-he1000se-full-headphone-1152w.avif) Headphones HE1000se Score 9.3 out of 10, Reference

HIFIMAN HE1000se Review: The $1,700 Flagship Planar

An ex-$3,500 flagship, now $1,700: nanometer diaphragm, Stealth Magnets, a holographic soundstage, and state-of-the-art detail - bright, honest, merciless with bad sources.

Bright, lean bass

Price **$1,700** Jul 4, 2026 8 minute read [Why the HE1000se earned Reference](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-he1000se/)

![The HIFIMAN HE1000 Stealth on a stand, seen from the front: two large egg-shaped cups with black pads, wood-accent rims and silver frames, below the black-and-tan suspension headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-he1000-stealth-full-headphone-1152w.avif) Headphones HE1000 Stealth Score 8.5 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN HE1000 Stealth Review: Flagship Planar at a Lower Price

A years-old HIFIMAN flagship, cheaper than ever: Stealth Magnets, a nanometer diaphragm, a wide open soundstage, and a fun, bright tuning - mind the treble peaks and the large fit.

Bright, wide stage

Price **$1,119** Jun 27, 2026 8 minute read [Why the HE1000 Stealth earned 8.5/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-he1000-stealth/)

![The Douk Audio U2 Pro, a small black aluminium box lit on a wooden desk, its front carrying the Douk Audio U2 Pro name above a row of PCM and DSD resolution indicator LEDs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/douk-audio-u2-pro-full-unit-1152w.avif) Sources U2 Pro Score 6.5 out of 10, Mixed

Douk Audio U2 Pro Review: Does a $70 DDC Reclocker Actually Work?

A $70 XMOS XU316 DDC reclocker (USB-C in; TOSLINK, coax, I²S out). Tighter timing and a fuller, more detailed sound - at the cost of some air and openness.

Analytical

Price **$70** Jun 20, 2026 4 minute read [See the mixed U2 Pro verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/douk-audio-u2-pro/)

![The HIFIMAN Serenade's front: a stepped glossy faceplate, three headphone outputs, top-mounted control buttons, and the heavy analog volume knob](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-serenade-front-panel-1152w.avif) Headphone Amps Serenade Score 9.3 out of 10, Reference

HIFIMAN Serenade Review: One Box to Replace Your DAC, Amp, and Streamer

HIFIMAN's all-in-one R2R DAC, discrete Class A amp, and hi-res network streamer in one 3kg box - lush, musical, and powerful enough to drive almost anything.

Price **$999** Jun 14, 2026 7 minute read [Why the Serenade earned Reference](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-serenade/)

![The Sivga SV021 Pro's wooden closed-back earcups, leather headband and soft pads, lit on a dark wooden surface](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/sivga-sv021-pro-wood-earcups-1152w.avif) Headphones SV021 Pro Score 7.6 out of 10, Recommended

Sivga SV021 Pro Review: A Fun, Wooden Closed-Back for $179

A $179 wood-earcup closed-back with a fun, bass-forward sound. A revised driver fixes the original's treble sibilance, though isolation and midrange refinement still lag.

Relaxed, aggressive

Price **$179** Jun 10, 2026 4 minute read [Read the SV021 Pro review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/sivga-sv021-pro/)

![The Meze 105 Silva's hand-polished walnut earcup with its intricate radial grille and velour pad](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/meze-105-silva-walnut-earcup-1152w.avif) Headphones 105 Silva Score 8.7 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Meze 105 Silva Review: The Most Beautiful Headphone Under $500?

A $499 open-back dynamic with hand-polished walnut cups, a custom 50mm carbon-fiber driver, and a warm, fun, easy-to-drive tuning that punches well above its price.

Bass-heavy, wide stage

Price **$499** May 17, 2026 7 minute read [Why the 105 Silva earned 8.7/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/meze-105-silva/)

![The Kiwi Ears Belle's two earpieces on wood - one showing the sunburst metal faceplate, the other the resin body - and its silver-plated copper cable](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/kiwi-ears-belle-earpieces-1152w.avif) Headphones Belle, Cadenza II, Orchestra II Score 8.1 out of 10, Recommended

Kiwi Ears Belle vs Cadenza II vs Orchestra II Review: Which One Should You Buy?

Three Kiwi Ears IEMs head-to-head - the $30 Belle with a mic, the $50 Cadenza II with KARS 2.0, and the 10-BA $350 Orchestra II flagship. Which is the value pick?

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$30 to $350** Apr 2, 2026 8 minute read [Read the Belle, Cadenza II, Orchestra II review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/kiwi-ears-belle-cadenza-orchestra/)

![A Woody Queen panel standing in the listening room beside a floor-standing speaker and the audio rack](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/ekustik-woody-queen-in-room-1152w.avif) Accessories Woody Queen Score 9.0 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Ekustik Woody Queen Review: Don't Buy Cheap Acoustic Panels

Handmade Czech acoustic panels with a luxurious wood frame and PET felt core - true broadband absorption to 100Hz, zero fiberglass, and a 0.94 NRC rating.

Price **From €399/panel from $430/panel approx.** Mar 27, 2026 7 minute read [Why the Woody Queen earned 9.0/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/ekustik-woody-queen/)

![The grill-less Arya Unveiled with its planar driver and Stealth Magnets fully exposed - no protective grille](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-arya-unveiled-exposed-driver-1152w.avif) Headphones Arya Unveiled Score 9.1 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Review: A Planar Too Fragile to Own?

An open-back planar that strips away the outer grill entirely - exposing the driver to deliver dead-silent backgrounds, holographic imaging, and the smoothest Arya treble yet.

Warm, analytical

Price **$1,299** Mar 16, 2026 8 minute read [Why the Arya Unveiled earned 9.1/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-arya-unveiled/)

![The full Kiwi Ears Atheia open-back headphone on a wooden stand, showing both walnut earcups, the leather suspension headband, and aluminium yokes, with its retail box behind](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/kiwi-ears-atheia-on-stand-1152w.avif) Headphones Atheia Score 7.9 out of 10, Recommended

Kiwi Ears Atheia Review: A $349 Planar + Dynamic Closed-Back

A closed-back hybrid headphone pairing a 50mm dynamic driver with a 14.5mm planar - dynamic slam on the bottom, planar speed on top, in a walnut and aluminum chassis.

Warm, bass-heavy

Price **$349** Dec 10, 2025 7 minute read [Read the Atheia review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/kiwi-ears-atheia/)

![The HarmonicDyne Eris on its stand, showing the glossy black earcup with the HarmonicDyne logo and suede headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/harmonicdyne-eris-glossy-earcups-1152w.avif) Headphones Eris Score 6.8 out of 10, Mixed

HarmonicDyne Eris Review: The Most Absurd Headphone Bass?

A semi-closed dynamic with 50mm ceramic-metal drivers and a deliberately overwhelming sub-bass tuning - tactile, fun, and tailor-made for EDM, hip-hop, and bass-heavy genres.

Bass-heavy, wide stage

Price **$249** Nov 2, 2025 7 minute read [See the mixed Eris verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/harmonicdyne-eris/)

![The PowerCell 14's rear panel: fourteen Schuko outlets arranged in three isolated banks beneath the Synergistic Research branding](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/synergistic-powercell-14-rear-outlets-1152w.avif) Accessories PowerCell 14 Score 9.2 out of 10, Reference

Synergistic PowerCell 14 Review: A $15K Power Conditioner?

A 14-outlet flagship power conditioner with seven SRX folded EM cells, ULF+DC biasing, graphene treatment, and a silver matrix ground strap - a tier above any 'power strip'.

Price **$14,495** Sep 30, 2025 7 minute read [Why the PowerCell 14 earned Reference](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/synergistic-research-powercell-14/)

![The Fosi Audio ZD3's front panel: the round display reading volume 50 with GAIN, OPT and PCM labels, the Fosi Audio ZD3 logo, and the large orange volume knob](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/fosi-audio-zd3-front-panel-1152w.avif) DACs ZD3 Score 7.1 out of 10, Recommended

Fosi Audio ZD3 Review: A $150 DAC With Swappable Op-Amps

A $150 desktop DAC that punches above its price - swappable op-amps, balanced XLR and RCA, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth aptX HD, a 126 dB SNR, and a clean, slightly bright sound.

Bright, lean bass

Price **$150** Sep 17, 2025 7 minute read [Read the ZD3 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/fosi-audio-zd3/)

![The Denafrips Hades 12th's brushed-aluminium front: an input/standby knob, the red dot-matrix volume display, and the volume knob](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/denafrips-hades-12th-front-panel-1152w.avif) Speaker Amps & Preamps Hades 12th Score 9.0 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Denafrips Hades 12th Review: The R2R Preamp That Changes Things

A pure Class A, fully balanced, true discrete preamp with a 60-step relay-based resistor ladder volume control - perfect channel balance, 0.00045% THD, 122dB SNR.

Price **$1,369** Aug 12, 2025 7 minute read [Why the Hades 12th earned 9.0/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/denafrips-hades-12th/)

![The OLLO Audio X1's machined real-wood earcup and stylized X cutout faceplate](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/ollo-audio-x1-wood-earcup-faceplate-1152w.avif) Headphones X1 Score 8.9 out of 10, Highly Recommended

OLLO Audio X1 Review: A $549 Open-Back Studio Headphone

An open-back studio reference headphone with AI-assisted per-unit calibration (±1dB), modular design, real wood cups, and a flat tuning that works for both mixing and music.

Bright, lean bass

Price **$549** Aug 1, 2025 7 minute read [Why the X1 earned 8.9/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/ollo-audio-x1/)

![The AD-1PA+'s brushed-aluminium front panel with its red-lit standby button ringed by an LED status indicator](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/tonewinner-ad-1pa-front-panel-1152w.avif) Speaker Amps & Preamps AD-1PA+ Score 9.0 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Tonewinner AD-1PA+ Review: A $3,175 Class A/AB Power Amp

A 43kg switchable Class A/AB power amplifier paired with a fully balanced preamp - 100W Class A or 500W Class AB into 4Ω with serious bass control and golden-hued mids.

Price **$3,175** Jul 14, 2025 7 minute read [Why the AD-1PA+ earned 9.0/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/tonewinner-ad-1pa-plus/)

![Close-up of the t.bone SCT 2000's double-layered silver mesh basket grille, cradled in its metal shock mount](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/tbone-sct-2000-mic-grille-1152w.avif) Sources SCT 2000 Score 8.1 out of 10, Recommended

t.bone SCT 2000 Review: A $231 Tube Mic That Robs the Industry

A large-diaphragm tube condenser at $231 with a real 12AX7B tube, nine polar patterns, gold-sputtered diaphragm, and a sound that competes with mics 3-5x the price.

Warm, wide stage

Price **$231** Jul 6, 2025 7 minute read [Read the SCT 2000 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/tbone-sct-2000/)

![The Sivga Anser's solid-wood earcups, aluminium mesh grilles, and gold-trimmed 3.5mm connectors](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/sivga-anser-wood-earcups-1152w.avif) Headphones Anser Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Sivga Anser Review: Open-Back Bass That $2k Cans Can't Touch

A $200 open-back dynamic with real wood cups and a tuning that delivers springy, bouncy mid-bass you won't find on $2,000 headphones - musical, fun, and built to last.

Warm, lean bass

Price **$199** Jun 24, 2025 7 minute read [Read the Anser review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/sivga-anser/)

![The pair of Taga TAV-607F floor-standers with grilles off, showing the three-way layout: tweeter, midrange driver, and 6.5-inch woofer](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/taga-tav607f-drivers-1152w.avif) Speakers TAV-607F Score 7.9 out of 10, Recommended

Taga TAV-607F Review: Floorstanders at Bookshelf Money

A surprisingly capable three-way floor-stander with twin 6.5" woofers, an angled-top low-interference cabinet, and an articulate, energetic sound that punches above its budget.

Bright, wide stage

Price **€699/pair $755/pair approx.** Jun 12, 2025 7 minute read [Read the TAV-607F review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/taga-harmony-tav-607f/)

![The matte-silver HIFIMAN EF500 standing vertically beside its box, with its gain/oversampling selector, volume knob, and headphone outputs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-ef500-front-panel-1152w.avif) Headphone Amps EF500 Score 8.2 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN EF500 Review: The Cheapest Himalaya R2R DAC

The most affordable HIFIMAN unit to feature their proprietary Himalaya R2R DAC chip - 4.5W per channel balanced, network streaming, and a vertical tower form factor.

Price **$549** Jun 3, 2025 7 minute read [Read the EF500 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-ef500/)

![A DH Labs Silver Sonic cable with its blue-and-black braided jacket and machined metal connectors](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/dh-labs-silversonic-cable-1152w.avif) Accessories HiFi Tweaks Roundup Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

3 Audiophile Tweaks That Actually Work: Cables, Power, Filters

Three real tweaks that improve a high-end system without swapping speakers or amps - audiophile network/USB/digital cables, AC power conditioning, and parallel filtering.

Price **Varies** May 18, 2025 7 minute read [Read the HiFi Tweaks Roundup review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/audiophile-tweaks-that-work/)

![The KBEAR KB02's detachable braided 2-pin cable, gold 3.5mm plug, and silicone tips](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/kbear-kb02-braided-cable-1152w.avif) Headphones KB02 Score 6.9 out of 10, Mixed

KBEAR KB02 Review: A $39 Bone Conduction Hybrid IEM

A $40 hybrid IEM combining a 10mm beryllium-plated dynamic driver with a bone conduction driver tuned for sub-bass - V-shaped, punchy, and surprisingly capable.

Bass-heavy, intimate stage

Price **$39** Apr 26, 2025 7 minute read [See the mixed KB02 verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/kbear-kb02/)

![The OneOdio Max 1's leatherette headband with red contrast stitching and embossed logo](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/oneodio-max-1-headband-red-stitching-1152w.avif) Headphones Max 1 Score 7.0 out of 10, Mixed

OneOdio Max 1 Review: €179 Wireless Headphones With LDAC

Hi-Res certified wireless over-ears with LDAC, a 20ms ultra-low-latency wireless DJ mode, dual jacks, and 120 hours of battery life - all for €180.

Bright, lean bass

Price **€179 $195 approx.** Apr 24, 2025 7 minute read [See the mixed Max 1 verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/oneodio-max-1/)

![The black Denafrips Hermes 12th's low-profile aluminium chassis, its row of input indicator LEDs and sample-rate labels beside the branding](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/denafrips-hermes-12th-front-panel-1152w.avif) Sources Hermes 12th Anniversary Score 8.9 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Denafrips Hermes 12th Review: Are DDC Reclockers Snake Oil?

A serious DDC with OCXO clocking, FIFO reclocking, dual I²S outputs, and two BNC clock inputs - removes the veil between your source and DAC without coloring the sound.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$899** Feb 25, 2025 7 minute read [Why the Hermes 12th Anniversary earned 8.9/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/denafrips-hermes-12th/)

![The HIFIMAN EF499's glossy black front with gold HIFIMAN branding, golden knobs, and the High/Low Gain NOS/OS selector legend](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-ef499-front-panel-1152w.avif) Headphone Amps EF499 Score 8.1 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN EF499 Review: A Real R2R DAC/Amp Under $300

A balanced R2R DAC/headphone amp with built-in network streaming for under $300 - warm, musical, and a serious one-box answer to the separates-or-not question.

Price **$299** Feb 9, 2025 7 minute read [Read the EF499 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-ef499/)

![The PF-1000LPS's black front panel with its VU-style voltage meter and the power on/off rocker switch](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/taga-pf1000lps-vu-meter-1152w.avif) Accessories PF-1000LPS Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Taga PF-1000LPS Review: A Serious 8-Outlet Power Conditioner

A serious 8-outlet power conditioner with a linear DC/USB supply, 3-tier filtering, audiophile fuses, and a phase detector - real protection and a measurable noise drop.

Price **$445** Jan 28, 2025 8 minute read [Read the PF-1000LPS review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/taga-harmony-pf-1000lps/)

![The pair of TAV-500B v.2 speakers in black veneer, each with a silk dome tweeter, Taga Harmony badge, and 6.5-inch mid-woofer](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/taga-tav500b-front-pair-1152w.avif) Speakers TAV-500B v.2 Score 7.9 out of 10, Recommended

Taga TAV-500B v.2 Review: €249 Active Bookshelf Speakers

Active 6.5-inch bookshelf speakers with built-in Class D amplification, Bluetooth, USB, optical, and a 30Hz bass extension that punches way above their €249 price.

Bright, wide stage

Price **€249/pair $270/pair approx.** Jan 17, 2025 8 minute read [Read the TAV-500B v.2 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/taga-harmony-tav-500b-v2/)

![Close-up of the gold horn-loaded TZ2550 tweeter set in its mirror-like chrome waveguide on the chestnut front baffle](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/triangle-australe-ez-tweeter-1152w.avif) Speakers Australe EZ Score 8.1 out of 10, Recommended

Triangle Australe EZ Review: Floorstanders That Cheat a Stage

French three-way floor-standers with a rear-firing DPS tweeter that 'cheats' a massive soundstage - lively, detailed, and demanding the right partnering gear.

Bright, wide stage

Price **$4,999/pair** Jan 10, 2025 8 minute read [Read the Australe EZ review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/triangle-australe-ez/)

![The Denafrips Enyo 15th's front panel with its metal buttons and red sample-rate and input LEDs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/denafrips-enyo-15th-front-panel-1152w.avif) DACs Enyo 15th Anniversary Score 9.1 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Denafrips Enyo 15th Review: A True Balanced R2R DAC at $699

A $700 true balanced R2R ladder DAC with an O-Core transformer, I²S input, and a natural, musical sound that easily competes with delta-sigma converters costing far more.

Warm, wide stage

Price **$699** Dec 25, 2024 9 minute read [Why the Enyo 15th Anniversary earned 9.1/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/denafrips-enyo-15th/)

![The SMSL RAW-MDA1's front: tempered-glass LCD, stepped knob, and 1/4-inch plus 4.4mm headphone outputs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/smsl-raw-mda1-front-display-1152w.avif) DACs RAW-MDA1 Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

SMSL RAW-MDA1 Review: The ESS DAC That Sounds Different

A $240 balanced DAC/headphone amp with dual ES9039Q2M chips that doesn't sound like every other ESS box - warmer tonality, forward mids, and a flexible soundstage.

Intimate stage, analytical

Price **$239** Dec 11, 2024 9 minute read [Read the RAW-MDA1 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/smsl-raw-mda1/)

![The Sivga Luan's real-wood earcup, blacked-out metal mesh grille, and silver aluminium ring](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/sivga-luan-wood-earcup-grille-1152w.avif) Headphones Luan Score 8.1 out of 10, Recommended

Sivga Luan Review: The Most Comfortable $299 Semi-Open?

A semi-open dynamic with real wood cups and a natural, chocolatey midrange - $360 at launch, now $299.

Warm, lean bass

Price **$299** Nov 25, 2024 8 minute read [Read the Luan review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/sivga-luan/)

![The Verum 1's wood-finish comma-shaped earcup, metal cut-out grill, and suspension headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/verum-1-wooden-earcup-grill-1152w.avif) Headphones Verum 1 Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Verum Audio Verum 1 Review: The Planar That's Scared of Treble

A $350 open-back planar that goes the opposite direction from most of the market - smooth, refined highs, full warm mids, and ruler-flat bass to 20Hz.

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$349** Nov 5, 2024 7 minute read [Read the Verum 1 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/verum-audio-verum-1/)

![The Diora Acoustics Chors 5's gloss-white cabinet wearing its black magnetic fabric grille with the Diora Acoustics logo](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/diora-chors-5-grille-cabinet-1152w.avif) Speakers Chors 5 Score 8.5 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Diora Acoustics Chors 5 Review: Speakers That Break the Rules

A 2-way closed-box floor-stander with ceramic-coated drivers, fast dynamic bass with no port, and uniquely smooth treble - one of the most distinct speakers in its class.

Bright, analytical

Price **$2,499/pair** Oct 22, 2024 6 minute read [Why the Chors 5 earned 8.5/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/diora-acoustics-chors-5/)

![The B-60's 36mm titanium dome tweeter with its metal mesh, recessed into the curved wood-veneer front baffle](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/taga-diamond-b60-tweeter-1152w.avif) Speakers DIAMOND B-60 v.3 Score 8.2 out of 10, Recommended

Taga Harmony DIAMOND B-60 Review: Is Neutrality in a Speaker Boring?

Bookshelf speakers with no parallel surfaces, neutral and organic tonality, and a midrange focus that's so inoffensive you'll listen for hours without noticing time pass.

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$1,099/pair** Oct 14, 2024 6 minute read [Read the DIAMOND B-60 v.3 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/taga-harmony-diamond-b60/)

![Macro close-up of the cable's red-and-black woven mesh braid jacket](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/audiomica-4-all-in-1-braid-1152w.avif) Accessories 4-all-in-1 Cable Set Score 8.5 out of 10, Highly Recommended

AudioMica 4-all-in-1 Cable Set Review: HiFi Cable Synergy Solved

A pre-matched cable kit at €790 (or PRO version) - speaker cables, power cord, and shared geometry tuned together to give you synergy out of the box without trial and error.

Price **€790 $855 approx.** Sep 30, 2024 7 minute read [Why the 4-all-in-1 Cable Set earned 8.5/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/audiomica-4-all-in-1/)

![The Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite's semi-transparent blue shells exposing the balanced-armature drivers inside](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/kiwi-ears-orchestra-lite-transparent-shells-1152w.avif) Headphones Orchestra Lite Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite Review: An 8-Driver IEM for $249

An 8-balanced-armature IEM with a 3-way crossover at $250 - mid-forward, naturally warm, with depth-focused staging that's the opposite of most IEMs in its class.

Bass-heavy, analytical

Price **$249** Sep 21, 2024 4 minute read [Read the Orchestra Lite review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/kiwi-ears-orchestra-lite/)

![The HIFIMAN RE2000 PRO Silver's CNC aluminium shells, detachable cable, and gold-plated plug on a wooden desk](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-re2000-pro-silver-shell-cable-1152w.avif) Headphones RE2000 PRO Silver Score 8.8 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN RE2000 PRO Silver Review: Does IEM Shape Matter for Sound?

An older HIFIMAN flagship IEM with the same topology driver as the RE800 but a CNC-machined aluminum shell - by far the most detailed IEM I've ever heard at $350.

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$349** Sep 18, 2024 5 minute read [Why the RE2000 PRO Silver earned 8.8/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-re2000-pro-silver/)

![The BR09's 25mm silk dome tweeter with its vertical Efficient Flow System phase plug, recessed into the partial horn](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/triangle-borea-br09-tweeter-1152w.avif) Speakers Borea BR09 Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Triangle Borea BR09 Review: The Best Budget Tower Speakers

Three-way French floor-standers with three bass drivers, neutral tonality, and a bigger-than-expected soundstage - balanced, distortion-free, and free of overdone bass.

Warm, wide stage

Price **$1,099/pair** Sep 7, 2024 7 minute read [Read the Borea BR09 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/triangle-borea-br09/)

![The HIFIMAN RE800 Silver's small aluminium earbud-style shell, fixed cable, and metal 3.5mm plug](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-re800-silver-earbud-cable-1152w.avif) Headphones RE800 Silver Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN RE800 Silver Review: An IEM That Will Save You $500

An older flagship IEM with topology driver tech, now $100 (down from $600) - audiophile-grade performance with surprisingly wide staging and an interesting non-target tuning.

Bass-heavy, wide stage

Price **$99** Aug 26, 2024 6 minute read [Read the RE800 Silver review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-re800-silver/)

![The Yellowtec PUC2 Mic LEA's ribbed silver-aluminium chassis with the yellow Yellowtec logo, rubber end bumpers, and the PUC2 front face](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/yellowtec-puc2-chassis-1152w.avif) Sources PUC2 Mic LEA Score 8.6 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Yellowtec PUC2 Mic LEA Review: An Audio Interface With LEA

A €769 audio interface from Germany with proprietary LEA leveling technology - automatic perfect mic levels, zero-latency monitoring, and a slightly warm, transparent sound.

Warm, analytical

Price **€769 $830 approx.** Aug 21, 2024 5 minute read [Why the PUC2 Mic LEA earned 8.6/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/yellowtec-puc2-mic-lea/)

![The thick brown-and-white BSSC95 cable coiled on its Melodika Brown Sugar Series box](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/melodika-bssc95-cable-1152w.avif) Accessories Brown Sugar BSSC95xx Score 8.5 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Melodika BSSC95xx Review: Does 9.5mm² of Copper Actually Help?

Melodika's flagship 9.5mm² LITZ speaker cable - super thick OFC copper, hand-finished Italian leather, and a big improvement in extension, dynamics, and treble air.

Price **Varies by length** Aug 20, 2024 5 minute read [Why the Brown Sugar BSSC95xx earned 8.5/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/melodika-bssc95/)

![The SMSL PS200's small black chassis with its front LED input indicators, control button, and engraved top logo](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/smsl-ps200-front-1152w.avif) DACs PS200 Score 7.0 out of 10, Recommended

SMSL PS200 Review: Why DAC Chips Are NOT Everything

A $90 ESS-based DAC that measures fantastically but illustrates why specs aren't the whole story - it sounds fine, just not exceptional.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$89** Aug 9, 2024 5 minute read [Read the PS200 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/smsl-ps200/)

![The SMSL DL100's front panel: display, volume knob, and 1/4-inch plus 4.4mm headphone outputs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/smsl-dl100-front-panel-1152w.avif) DACs DL100 Score 8.2 out of 10, Recommended

SMSL DL100 Review: Best Budget DAC/Amp Under $200?

A $180 balanced DAC/amp combo with MQA, DSD256, 4 Cirrus Logic chips, and a clarity-focused house sound that punches well above its budget category.

Bright, bass-heavy

Price **$179** Aug 5, 2024 6 minute read [Read the DL100 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/smsl-dl100/)

![The HIFIMAN Arya Organic on a stand, showing its wood-veneer earcups and suspension-strap headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-arya-organic-open-back-headphone-1152w.avif) Headphones Arya Organic Score 9.2 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Arya Organic Review: Endgame Resolution at $1,099

A continuation of the Arya series at $1,300 (or $1,100 on sale) - the most resolving headphone at this price, with spectacular detail and bass you can feel.

Bright, wide stage

Price **$1,099** Jul 26, 2024 5 minute read [Why the Arya Organic earned 9.2/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-arya-organic/)

![The Arya Stealth on a stand, showing its blacked-out suspension-strap headband and Window Shade grille](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-arya-stealth-suspension-headband-1152w.avif) Headphones Arya Stealth Score 8.7 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Review: A Warm $759 Planar Flagship

An exceptionally comfortable HIFIMAN flagship at $759 with a rare warm-leaning balance, unbeatable imaging, and a taste of high-end sound at a non-flagship price.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$759** Jul 25, 2024 6 minute read [Why the Arya Stealth earned 8.7/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-arya-stealth/)

![The Sivga Robin SV021's polished real-wood earcups, tan leather pads, and silver yokes on a wooden table](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/sivga-robin-sv021-wood-earcup-1152w.avif) Headphones Robin SV021 Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

Sivga Robin SV021 Review: A $149 Closed-Back, Messy Mids

A $150 closed-back dynamic with real wood earcups, masterpiece-level build, and a fun, exciting V-shaped sound that breaks the 'budget closed-back' mold.

Warm, bass-heavy

Price **$149** Jul 11, 2024 8 minute read [Read the Robin SV021 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/sivga-robin-sv021/)

![The Ananda Nano held up, showing its very large earcups and three-material hybrid ear pads](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-ananda-nano-hybrid-ear-pad-1152w.avif) Headphones Ananda Nano Score 8.6 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Ananda Nano Review: Is This an Upgrade vs Ananda Stealth?

A nanometer-thickness diaphragm trickled down into the Ananda line - one of the best picks in its price range, with detailed treble that can occasionally cross the line.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$499** Jun 26, 2024 5 minute read [Why the Ananda Nano earned 8.6/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-ananda-nano/)

![The Ananda Stealth's large egg-shaped earcup with its silver grille and three-material hybrid pad](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-ananda-stealth-egg-earcups-1152w.avif) Headphones Ananda Stealth Score 8.8 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Ananda Stealth Review: The Overlooked $359 Planar

An overlooked HIFIMAN planar at $360 with a slightly warm tonality, fantastic imaging, and a 'pleasantly wet' sound that beats the Edition XS in almost every way.

Warm

Price **$359** Jun 18, 2024 5 minute read [Why the Ananda Stealth earned 8.8/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-ananda-stealth/)

![The BSSC4500's red and black banana plugs connected into a speaker's binding posts](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/melodika-bssc4500-connectors-1152w.avif) Accessories Brown Sugar BSSC4500 Score 8.2 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Melodika BSSC4500 Review: Are Thicker Speaker Cables Better?

A higher-tier 4.5mm² LITZ speaker cable that delivers tighter mid-bass, better instrument separation, and a more natural, lifelike sound - a clear upgrade over the BSSC3300.

Price **Varies by length** Jun 15, 2024 4 minute read [Why the Brown Sugar BSSC4500 earned 8.2/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/melodika-bssc4500/)

![The SMSL DO100 PRO's front display showing the 44.1kHz sample rate, beside its stepped control knob](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/smsl-do100-pro-front-display-1152w.avif) DACs DO100 PRO Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

SMSL DO100 PRO Review: A $219 DAC With a Tinkerer's Switch

A balanced lower-mid-range DAC with dual ESS chips, MQA, DSD512, and a tinker-friendly DPLL value control - solid sound that doesn't break records but offers great value.

Bright, analytical

Price **$219** Jun 9, 2024 5 minute read [Read the DO100 PRO review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/smsl-do100-pro/)

![The P902E6R's big aluminium-alloy IEC plug with its blue Hi-End Connector sticker, plugged into an amplifier's mains inlet](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/monosaudio-p902e6r-plug-1152w.avif) Accessories P902E6R + USB Cables Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

Monosaudio P902E6R Review: Sub-$150 Power and USB Cables

Sub-$150 high-end power cables and audiophile USB cables that brought tighter bass, a wider soundstage, and unexpectedly large clarity gains across an entire HiFi chain.

Price **Under $150** Jun 6, 2024 5 minute read [Read the P902E6R + USB Cables review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/monosaudio-p902e6r/)

![The Simgot EM6L's small glossy black 3D-printed shells and silicone ear tips](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/simgot-em6l-shells-eartips-1152w.avif) Headphones EM6L Score 7.6 out of 10, Recommended

Simgot EM6L Review: Five Drivers, $109, and a Weirdly Big Soundstage

A budget hybrid IEM with 1 dynamic + 4 BA drivers, a 3-way crossover, and an attempt at the Harman 2019 target - mostly successful, with a fun 'weirdly big' soundstage.

Wide stage, aggressive

Price **$109** May 13, 2024 3 minute read [Read the EM6L review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/simgot-em6l/)

![The Tonewinner AD-2PRO+ from the side: its silver-and-black chassis flanked by the large black heatsink fins that run the full depth of the unit](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/tonewinner-ad-2pro-chassis-heatsinks-1152w.avif) Speaker Amps & Preamps AD-2PRO+ Score 8.8 out of 10, Highly Recommended

Tonewinner AD-2PRO+ Review: 40 kg, 240W, and a Class A Switch

A 40 kg, 240W integrated amp with switchable Class A and Class A/B modes, neutral tonality, and the kind of dynamic headroom that pairs well with virtually any speaker.

Price **$2,699** Apr 8, 2024 4 minute read [Why the AD-2PRO+ earned 8.8/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/tonewinner-ad-2pro-plus/)

![Close-up of the Brown Sugar BSSC3300's twisted brown-and-white conductors under clear insulation, printed with the Melodika model name](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/melodika-bssc3300-braid-1152w.avif) Accessories Brown Sugar BSSC3300 Score 7.5 out of 10, Recommended

Melodika Brown Sugar BSSC3300 Review: Clean and Neutral, a Little Too Calm

Polish-made LITZ speaker cables with Multi-Gauge Core technology - clean, neutral, and detail-rich, but the 3.3mm² gauge is on the lighter side for full dynamic punch.

Price **Varies by length** Mar 13, 2024 4 minute read [Read the Brown Sugar BSSC3300 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/melodika-bssc3300/)

![Close-up of the AS-EU08's pure copper Schuko power sockets recessed into the solid metal top](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/as-eu08-schuko-sockets-1152w.avif) Accessories AS-EU08 + SP-USB Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Monosaudio AS-EU08 + SP-USB Review: A Darker Background Without PS Audio Money

An affordable alternative to PS Audio and AudioQuest. The AS-EU08 paired with the SP-USB delivers a darker background, lower noise floor, and a more refined sound.

Price **From $200** Mar 1, 2024 6 minute read [Read the AS-EU08 + SP-USB review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/as-eu08-sp-usb/)

![The HIFIMAN EF400's brushed-aluminium front: the R2R Himalaya logo, gain/oversample knob, and headphone outputs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-ef400-front-panel-1152w.avif) Headphone Amps EF400 Score 7.5 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN EF400 Review: R2R at $399, but Check the Power First

An entry-level Class AB amp/DAC with HIFIMAN's Himalaya R2R DAC, fun subjective sound, and a slightly soft character - underpowered for the hardest planar loads.

Price **$399** Feb 18, 2024 6 minute read [Read the EF400 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-ef400/)

![The PS75R1R's chrome-plated brass R201R RCA connectors on the black nylon-braided interconnects](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/monosaudio-ps75r1r-connectors-1152w.avif) Accessories PS75R1R, CAT 8, P903M0 Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

Monosaudio Cables Review: Can These Chinese HiFi Cables Make a Difference?

Affordable audiophile cables from AliExpress that genuinely deliver - silver RCA interconnects, OFC CAT 8 Ethernet, and a power cord with real, audible improvements.

Price **From $30** Jan 24, 2024 8 minute read [Read the PS75R1R, CAT 8, P903M0 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/monosaudio-cables/)

![The Flare Audio E-PROTOTYPE's unusual 3D-printed 'Mirror Image' earpieces with cross-shaped faces](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/flare-audio-e-prototype-shape-1152w.avif) Headphones E-PROTOTYPE Score 8.0 out of 10, Recommended

Flare Audio E-PROTOTYPE Review: Best-in-Class Bass, Love-or-Hate Mids

Unlike anything you've heard or seen. The E-PROTOTYPE goes to extremes - both positive and negative - using proprietary technologies you won't find anywhere else.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$149** Jan 5, 2024 6 minute read [Read the E-PROTOTYPE review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/flare-audio-e-prototype/)

![The SMSL PS100's rear ports: USB-C, HDMI, optical, coaxial, and RCA analogue outputs](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/smsl-ps100-rear-io-1152w.avif) DACs PS100 Score 7.0 out of 10, Recommended

SMSL PS100 Review: A $29 'Audiophile' DAC - Can't Be Good, Right?

Below $30 for a DAC. It's not a measurement monster and the sound doesn't shine in any aspect, but it does what it has to do - and frees up your budget for a better amp.

Price **$29** Dec 11, 2023 4 minute read [Read the PS100 review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/smsl-ps100/)

![Close-up of a HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless earbud showing its chromed swan-shaped nozzle, silver-and-black body, and silicone ear tip](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-svanar-wireless-earbud-1152w.avif) Headphones Svanar Wireless Score 7.8 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN Svanar Wireless Review: R2R in a $499 Wireless IEM

A $500 single dynamic driver TWS with an R2R DAC and LDAC. It's both lacking and feature-packed at the same time - and it actually delivers where it matters.

Wide stage, analytical

Price **$499** Aug 2, 2023 6 minute read [Read the Svanar Wireless review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-svanar-wireless/)

![The Sundara Closed-back's real Beechwood earcup and suspension-strap headband on a stand](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-sundara-closed-back-beechwood-earcup-1152w.avif) Headphones Sundara Closed-back Score 6.8 out of 10, Mixed

HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-back Review: An Entirely Different Headphone

Sundara, but cheaper, better isolation, easier to drive? Nope, not even close. An entirely different headphone that manages to be mediocre in every way that matters to me.

Analytical, aggressive

Price **$229** Jul 26, 2023 6 minute read [See the mixed Sundara Closed-back verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-sundara-closed-back/)

![The HIFIMAN Sundara's open-back ear cup, showing the metal grille, matte cast frame, and headband bar](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/sundara-open-back-ear-cup-1152w.avif) Headphones Sundara Score 9.0 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Sundara Review: Still Exceptional at $300, if Your Ears Fit

An amazing value proposition - the latest Sundara revision performs exceptionally well at $300 in the open-back planar market. It's just steel.

Warm, bass-heavy

Price **$299** Jul 14, 2023 4 minute read [Why the Sundara earned 9.0/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-sundara/)

![The HIFIMAN HE400se on a stand, showing its soft hybrid pad, metal yoke, and the honeycomb grille of the far cup](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-he400se-open-back-earcup-1152w.avif) Headphones HE400se Score 7.6 out of 10, Recommended

HIFIMAN HE400se Review: $109 Planar Magnetic Headphone?

A stupidly cheap open-back planar with Stealth Magnets technology at $109 - loved by some, criticized by others. So what's actually going on with it?

Relaxed, aggressive

Price **$109** Jun 22, 2023 4 minute read [Read the HE400se review](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-he400se/)

![The full HIFIMAN HE-R9 headphone at a three-quarter angle, showing both large glossy red closed-back cups, the black pads, and the solid black headband and gimbals](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-he-r9-full-headphone-1152w.avif) Headphones HE-R9 Score 6.9 out of 10, Mixed

HIFIMAN HE-R9 Review: The $200 Closed-Back Bass Monster

Both terrible and amazing at the same time - the HE-R9 is a closed-back bass monster at $200 with a tuning that's either perfect for you, or completely wrong.

Wide stage, relaxed

Price **$199** Jun 5, 2023 4 minute read [See the mixed HE-R9 verdict](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-he-r9/)

![The HIFIMAN Edition XS on a stand, showing its oval slatted Window Shade grille and leather headband](https://theaudiostuff.com/images/hifiman-edition-xs-open-back-egg-grille-1152w.avif) Headphones Edition XS Score 8.7 out of 10, Highly Recommended

HIFIMAN Edition XS Review: Brilliant at $269, Held Back by the Headband

An exceptional open-back planar at $269 with a sound signature that's hard to find elsewhere - held back only by a controversial headband design choice.

Wide stage, relaxed

Price **$269** Jun 1, 2023 4 minute read [Why the Edition XS earned 8.7/10](https://theaudiostuff.com/reviews/hifiman-edition-xs/)

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[Search everything instead](https://theaudiostuff.com/search/) - guides, tools, comparisons and glossary terms.

## Buying guides: skip the guesswork, start with the shortlist. {#home-guides-title}

Curated "best of" lists where every pick is one of our scored reviews - ranked by what actually sounds best on the chain, never by who paid. No "top 10" filler.

[All 13 guides](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/)

- Sources [Best Audio Sources](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-audio-sources/) 5 scored picks Top pick: Denafrips Hermes 12th Anniversary 8.9
- Headphones [Best Budget Headphones](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-budget-headphones/) 4 scored picks Top pick: Sivga Anser 8.0
- Headphones [Best Budget IEMs](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-budget-iems/) 4 scored picks Top pick: Kiwi Ears Belle, Cadenza II, Orchestra II 8.1
- DACs [Best DACs](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-dacs/) 8 scored picks Top pick: Denafrips Enyo 15th Anniversary 9.1
- Headphone Amps [Best Headphone Amplifiers](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-headphone-amplifiers/) 4 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN Serenade 9.3
- Headphones [Best Headphones Under $500](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-headphones-under-500/) 12 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN Sundara 9.0
- Accessories [Best Hi-Fi Accessories](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-hifi-accessories/) 13 scored picks Top pick: Synergistic Research PowerCell 14 9.2
- Headphones [Best IEMs](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-iems/) 7 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN RE2000 PRO Silver 8.8
- Headphones [Best Open-Back Headphones](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-open-back-headphones/) 14 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN HE1000se 9.3
- Headphones [Best Planar Magnetic Headphones](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-planar-magnetic-headphones/) 11 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN HE1000se 9.3
- [Best Reference-Grade Audio Gear](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-reference-grade-audio-gear/) 10 scored picks Top pick: HIFIMAN HE1000se 9.3
- Speaker Amps & Preamps [Best Speaker Amps and Preamps](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-speaker-amps-and-preamps/) 3 scored picks Top pick: Tonewinner AD-1PA+ 9.0
- Speakers [Best Speakers](https://theaudiostuff.com/guides/best-speakers/) 6 scored picks Top pick: Diora Acoustics Chors 5 8.5

## About these audio reviews. {#reviews-faq-title}

What gets reviewed, how to use the catalogue, and how the verdict scale actually maps to gear you can buy.

1. ### What kind of audio gear do you review? {#reviews-faq-what-kind-of-audio-gear-do-you-review}
   Headphones (open-back, closed-back, planar magnetic, dynamic, IEMs), loudspeakers (bookshelf, floorstanding, active and passive, studio monitors), DACs (delta-sigma, R-2R ladder, NOS, USB and balanced), amplifiers (headphone amps, integrated, tube and solid-state, Class A/AB/D), sources (network streamers, transports, turntables), and accessories (cables, isolation, room treatment, headphone pads).
2. ### How do I find the best gear in my budget? {#reviews-faq-how-do-i-find-the-best-gear-in}
   Open the category page that matches what you are buying (headphones, speakers, DACs, etc.), sort by score, and look for pieces tagged "Highly Recommended" or "Reference". Each review includes the price tier and direct comparisons against gear in the same bracket, so the best value is usually the highest-scoring piece at or below your budget.
3. ### What is a Reference verdict? {#reviews-faq-what-is-a-reference-verdict}
   Reference is the top of the verdict scale. It means the piece is a benchmark in its category, the unit other gear in the same class is judged against. Reference is not necessarily the most expensive option; it is the best at what it sets out to do, with no meaningful flaws holding it back at its price tier.
4. ### How often are new reviews published? {#reviews-faq-how-often-are-new-reviews-published}
   Roughly weekly during normal periods, sometimes longer when a flagship piece needs an extended listening window (four to eight weeks is typical for top-tier headphones, amps, and DACs). Subscribe to the RSS feed to get every new piece without checking the site manually.
5. ### Can I trust audiophile reviews online? {#reviews-faq-can-i-trust-audiophile-reviews-online}
   Trust the reviewer who publishes their methodology, names the comparison gear, discloses every loaner unit, and writes negative verdicts when the gear deserves them. Every review on The Audio Stuff lists those things at the top and bottom of the page; there are no sponsored verdicts and no pre-publication review for brands.
6. ### Why do older review scores sometimes change? {#reviews-faq-why-do-older-review-scores-sometimes-change}
   Because the reference list updates. Every score on this site is anchored against the current reference in its category. When a new piece earns Reference status and resets what 9.5 means for, say, a planar magnetic flagship, older scores in that bracket can move. Updates are dated in the review header and the original score is preserved in the change log so the history stays auditable.
7. ### How do I compare scores across different gear categories? {#reviews-faq-how-do-i-compare-scores-across-different-gear}
   Directly. A 9.0 on a headphone, a 9.0 on a DAC, and a 9.0 on a bookshelf speaker carry the same weight. Each one is top-of-class within its category, judged against the same percentile of its category reference list. The reference list is what makes cross-category scores comparable; absolute price, sensitivity, or topology do not enter the score.