It is the end of the year again! Time for our annual best-of lists. We have had close to 100 products in our hands, so it is quite the task to narrow it down to a top five. But we do our best!
Neat Petite Classic monitor loudspeaker
This unassuming monitor has left a lasting impression and is the kind of speaker you can never get enough of. Designer Bob Surgeoner is a musician himself and we think that certainly has something to do with it. These speakers are boxes full of fun that do full justice to any genre. The look is understated and although you have to pay some attention to placement, when you get it right it’s a pretty NEAT ride.
Sonnet Kratos mono power amplifier
Time for a confession. Your author wasn’t supposed to make any purchases in 2023 but unfortunately that didn’t work out. But to be honest, we’re ok with it because the Sonnet Kratos power amplifiers in combination with our Sonnet Morpheus, sound superb. Especially the definition in the low end and the above average imaging are exceptional. There is a certain synergy between the Kratos and the Morpheus that elevates the entire performance. Now we have an even better sound that is completely balanced and neutral and ideal for testing.
Moon 250i V2 integrated amplifier
As indifferent as the previous model left us in the previous multitest, so engaged are we when listening to this new version. The 250i V2 has sparkling highs and excellent control in the low end. Music sounds fresh and new, making it very hard to sit still. The most surprising element, however, is its transparency and excellent detail retrieval. And it is also a really nice device to use. The headphone amplifier and excellent phono stage are the icing on the cake.
Atoll DR200 Signature CD transport
During our multitest, the Atoll was one of our favourites. However, the competition was no slouch but with the DR200 Signature, we got goosebumps and the music really moved us. The device is understated but well build but make no mistake. Under the hood is a lot of technology. Not in least the beautiful TEAC cd mechanism that not only works flawlessly but will also last a lifetime and provide years of carefree listening. Its own power supply and excellent craftsmanship are also added value. The AES/EBU connection seals the deal for us.
Vienna Acoustics Haydn SE Signature
Vienna Acoustics has a special place in our hearts. Years ago, I heard a set of Haydn Grand with my father at the X-FI show in Veldhoven, now DAE, and the musicality, we don’t feel like looking for a better word for a moment, was off the charts. After testing the Haydn Jubilee, we bought the demo speaker and enjoyed it for years. The Haydn SE Signature is even better than the Haydn Grand and Haydn Jubilee. The signature is not a speaker that will wow you at first listen but more a good friend you can count on to deliver the goods. Lesser recordings won’t sound terrible and fine recordings will come through naturally and relaxed. Voices and instruments sound right. That’s not an easy thing to pull of. The Vienna Acoustics Haydn SE Signature will not be for everyone, but for the right person (me) it might be the speaker you were always searching for.