John Darko
EISA – the Expert Image and Sound Association – joins the dots between 27 specialist publications worldwide that cover hi-fi, home theatre, smartphones, in-car entertainment and photography. Most of these publications are print magazines. Some have websites. Others publish YouTube videos and podcasts.
Per its membership, EISA is divided into the following expert groups: hi-fi, home theatre audio, home theatre video, photography, in-car electronics and mobile devices. Darko.Audio is a member of the Hi-Fi Expert Group which includes almost twenty well-respected hi-fi publications.
This year – just like last year and the year before that – each member of the Hi-Fi Expert Group was asked to nominate its favourite hi-fi and headphone gear coming to market during the preceding twelve months. The rules are strict: a publication can only nominate a product if it has reviewed that product. All members of the Hi-Fi Expert Group then vote on those nominations; one member per publication. The votes are tallied behind closed doors by the Hi-Fi Expert Group manager and in some categories, a second round of voting is used to break tied positioning. Crucially, no member knows how another has voted.
What follows are the most award-worthy hi-fi products of 2024-25 as voted on by twenty hi-fi publications whose collective overview is far broader in scope than any individual publication could muster alone.
EISA AV FURNITURE 2024-2025
Blok Stax 2G
Often overlooked, AV furniture has a crucial role to play in obtaining the best sonic performance from an audio system, be it stereo or multichannel. This is ably demonstrated by the second generation of Blok’s Stax, which combines a smart and functional design with isolation and resonance-controlling technologies, housing your system components in the best possible way. The modular approach of Stax 2G makes it easy to build an equipment rack exactly suited to your requirements, while cable management is equally effortless. Adjustable feet mean the often-arduous task of levelling your AV furniture is also a breeze. Available in multiple finishes, Blok’s Stax 2G sets the stage for your system’s finest performance.
EISA BEST VALUE STREAMING AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
WiiM Amp
A new entrant to the ‘just add speakers’ arena, the WiiM Amp catches the eye with its neat, easy-to-house casework and affordable price, and then stuns with its multi-talented feature set and performance. Streaming skills are extensive, from Spotify/Tidal Connect to playback through Roon, DLNA, AirPlay and the WiiM Home app – choose your music, and this diminutive amplifier then offers a big-hearted performance, based around its 2x60W Class D amp stage and ESS Sabre DAC. Want more? The WiiM Amp offers voice control, a USB port for external storage, two-way Bluetooth for headphone listening, HDMI ARC connectivity and in-depth EQ settings via the app. In short, this is a little box with a lot of appeal!
EISA BEST VALUE WIRELESS BOOKSHELF LOUDSPEAKERS 2024-2025
PSB Alpha iQ
Designed with both performance and ease of use in mind, PSB’s Alpha iQ is the first active stereo speaker system to incorporate the BluOS platform, tying it into a multiroom ecosystem with slick app control and music playback options. With further connections including AirPlay, aptX HD Bluetooth, HDMI ARC and MM phono, the Alpha iQ accommodates a modern mix of wired and wireless sources, while its performance is equally crowd-pleasing. The two-way driver arrays in each compact cabinet, allied to independent built-in amplification, deliver a detailed, even-handed sound. Choose PSB’s black or white finish for a discreet install or make the Alpha iQ the centre of attention through one of three bright colourways!
EISA COMPACT DAC 2024-2025
iFi Audio GO Bar Kensei
Combining USB DAC and headphone amplifier technologies in a compact, pocket-friendly design, the GO Bar Kensei is a fit for on-the-go audiophiles. Utilising its USB-C connection for both power and hi-res file playback, iFi Audio’s stunning portable delivers a superb performance to headphones, whether IEMs or conventional over-ear designs, via its 3.5mm/4.4mm outputs. Key to this is the GO Bar’s high-quality hardware engineering, and the integration of JVCKenwood’s K2HD processing to revive the natural sound of digital recordings. A choice of filters and analogue EQ presets are available to further finesse the GO Bar Kensei’s sonics, all indicated by status lights on its smart, brushed aluminium body.
EISA COMPACT STREAMING AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
Marantz MODEL M1
Don’t be fooled by the MODEL M1’s diminutive size and minimalist design. Thanks to its 2x100W digital Class D power stage and wide-ranging feature set, Marantz’s compact amplifier effortlessly drives loudspeakers to take care of both music and TV audio needs. Integration of the HEOS streaming platform and control app, plus AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth connectivity, make music playback easy, while HDMI eARC, Dolby Digital decoding and subwoofer support cater to movie nights via a 2.1 system. And although the MODEL M1 fits many roles – the compact form factor also suits CI set-ups – this amplifier’s superb sonic performance stays true to Marantz’s heritage.
EISA ENTHUSIASTS AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
Musical Fidelity A1
Musical Fidelity’s A1 integrated amplifier takes music lovers on a journey back in time, resurrecting the distinctive, slender-chassis styling and much of the under-the-hood design of the company’s celebrated 1980s original. This remains an all-analogue amp with MM/MC phono, line in and tape loop connections, but now benefits from carefully considered upgrades to its power supply and internal heatsinking, and adds a welcome Direct mode that bypasses the preamp gain. Otherwise, this 2x25W Class A unit picks up where its predecessor left off – notable for an organic, almost tube-like presentation that delivers music in a thrillingly expansive, expressive fashion.
EISA FLOORSTANDING LOUDSPEAKERS 2024-2025
Monitor Audio Gold Series 300 6G
Monitor Audio has leveraged technologies from its higher-end Platinum 3G and Hyphn models to deliver a comprehensive upgrade of its Gold 300 floorstander. Chief among its new features are C-CAM midrange and bass drivers now with Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology (HDT) to improve rigidity, and Monitor Audio’s distinctive Micro-Pleated Diaphragm III tweeter. The latter’s detailed, extended treble adds a sense of air to the Gold 300 6G’s full-bodied midrange and deliciously deep bass – it’s an addictive sound that’ll ensure listening sessions fly by. Aesthetic design is gold-standard too, with this slender floorstander looking resplendent in gloss black, satin white or man-made ebony veneer options.
EISA HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
iFi Audio iDSD Diablo 2
If the original Diablo headphone amp from iFi Audio was a breath of fresh air, this second-gen model will blow you away. Upgrades include a mode for MEMS earphones, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and the latest implementation of iFi Audio’s PureWave balanced circuit design, plus a new metallic-red chassis with grooves to support the Diablo 2’s desktop stand at different angles. Flexibility impresses, both in terms of functionality (the Diablo 2 will serve as an external DAC/preamp if desired) and headphone compatibility. Use iFi Audio’s iEMatch technology with sensitive in-ears, and be rest assured this amp’s 4800mAh battery can drive demanding headphones with ease, aided by ‘Turbo’ and ‘Nitro’ modes.
EISA HIGH-END HEADPHONES 2024-2025
Austrian Audio The Composer
Building on its engineering team’s decades of experience in headphone design, manufacturer Austrian Audio has got off to a flying start with this high-performance over-ear model. The Composer’s sound suits its name, its custom 49mm Hi-X drivers and open-back housings crafting musical, dynamic and detailed sonics suited to listening at home or in the studio. Comfort is first-rate too, with a lightweight metal frame, smart mesh headband and wide adjustability enabling a perfect fit for hours of use. The accompanying luxury case includes a complete selection of cables, allowing you to savour The Composer’s high-end presentation with every DAC/amp straight out of the box. This is a reference headphone to cherish.
EISA HIGH-END LOUDSPEAKERS 2024-2025
Wilson Audio The WATT/Puppy
By applying new state-of-the-art technologies to the WATT/Puppy design, Wilson Audio has successfully reimagined this most iconic of loudspeakers. The form factor might be unchanged – The WATT/Puppy still mounts an isolated two-way enclosure atop a dual-driver bass section – but so much more is new. The CSC tweeter was first developed for its Alexx V model while the bass and mid drivers are leveraged from the costlier Sasha V. In addition, the crossover network, bespoke cabinet materials, spike assemblies and pin-point adjustability of the head unit are all optimised for this one model. Performance, meanwhile, defies expectations: phenomenal bass control and power, explicit detail, and first-rate musicality. The WATT/Puppy is a triumph of audio engineering.
EISA INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
HiFi Rose RA280
Since its arrival on the hi-fi scene in 2017, HiFi Rose has seduced audiophiles with a range of products that combine high-quality engineering and performance with a unique sense of style. The RA280 analogue integrated amplifier is no exception, its elegant casework with tactile front-panel controls (and VU meters) concealing an innovative GaN FET-based Class D amp stage that comfortably outperforms its 2x250W specification. In use, via either its balanced line input or moving-magnet phono stage, the RA280 dazzles with detailed, airy stereo imaging and a dynamic, exciting sound that’ll have you cranking up its illuminated volume dial. HiFi Rose’s amplifier punches far above its price tag.
EISA PREMIUM LOUDSPEAKER SERIES 2024-2025
Bowers & Wilkins 700 S3 Signature
Three models from Bowers & Wilkins’ 700 S3 series receive a Signature upgrade, resulting in high-performance loudspeakers to entice both hi-fi and home theatre enthusiasts. Shared across the 702 S3 Signature tower, 705 S3 Signature standmount and HTM71 S3 Signature centre are new crossover networks and terminal plates, improved driver suspensions, and a remodelled tweeter grille derived from the brand’s flagship 800 D4 Signature line. Joining these carefully considered upgrades are gorgeous Datuk Gloss and Midnight Blue Metallic finishes, so that the 700 S3 Signature speakers look as good as they sound: lively and dynamic, with effortless imaging and fine-touch detail. For stereo music or 5.1 movies, this series delivers!
EISA PORTABLE LOUDSPEAKER 2024-2025
Morel Biggie
With its playful name and wide selection of colour finishes, Morel’s Biggie is a wireless loudspeaker with a fun side. But while small in stature and easily portable thanks to its leather-style carry handle and built-in rechargeable battery, its two-way driver configuration – 25mm tweeter and 100mm woofer, each with dedicated amplification – delivers a largescale, powerful sound. Useful features include True Wireless Stereo (TWS) to pair two Biggies in a discrete two-channel system, fast charging via USB-C connection, and support for Bluetooth Auracast. Design impresses too, with the Biggie’s illuminated controls making setup easy and keeping you up to date with battery status.
EISA PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE SOLUTION 2024-2025
T+A R 2500 R
Traditional hi-fi ‘lore’ states that the best sound performance requires separates. T+A’s R 2500 R, however, says otherwise. This all-in-one amplifier is an unashamedly premium product, relying on dual-mono Class AB amplification, a custom PSU, and dual DAC architecture – where DSD inputs are separately handled by a bespoke 1-bit converter – to deliver your music with power and finesse. It’s a genuine multi-source unit too, letting you play CDs, kick back with FM/DAB+ radio or stream content via T+A’s user-friendly app or the R 2500 R’s integration of Roon. Meanwhile, comprehensive connectivity, including HDMI inputs and ARC, USB DAC, headphone out and Bluetooth streaming, make it ready for any user scenario.
EISA PREMIUM LOUDSPEAKERS 2024-2025
SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle
The top-of-the-range loudspeaker in SVS’s Ultra Evolution series is a real statement of intent from the American manufacturer. By showcasing a new time-aligned cabinet architecture, improved diamond vapour-coated tweeter design, and no fewer than four 200mm bass drivers configured in ‘force-balanced’ pairs, the Pinnacle floorstander has all the hallmarks of a flagship model. So does its performance. Aided by attention to detail in cabinet construction and bracing, including 25mm-thick front and rear baffles, the Ultra Evolution Pinnacle crafts huge, atmospheric soundstages that are underpinned by deep, energetic bass and peppered with detail – all without being too demanding of partnering amplification.
EISA PREMIUM SOUNDBAR 2024-2025
CANVAS HiFi, CANVAS
At first glance the CANVAS appears akin to a conventional soundbar, but it’s far more than that. Designed to be used both with a TV or as a standalone hi-fi system, it combines its stereo driver array and four-way amp stage with innovative BACCH 3D crosstalk cancellation, for a performance that delivers your favourite music or movie content on a grand scale with authentic imaging. Features include room correction, wireless streaming and HDMI eARC, and it’s customisable too, with a decorative front panel available in a choice of wood or textile finishes. This can be specified in sizes to match TV screens from 55in to 77in, while CANVAS’s hybrid mount supports both on-wall and floor mounting.
EISA PREMIUM STREAMING AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
Hegel H400
This beautifully engineered amplifier takes its cues from Hegel’s earlier H390, making improvements to its streaming platform, DAC and preamp stages – plus introducing app control – to deliver a streaming amp of undeniable appeal. As we’ve come to expect from the Norwegian marque, the H400’s power output proves prodigious, making this an accomplished driver of ‘hungry’ loudspeakers, while its natural, transparent sound signature brings your music to life with ease. No genre is off limits, and with streaming options including Tidal Connect, Google Cast, UPnP and Airable radio/podcasts (plus the H400’s range of wired inputs) you’ll have no difficulty finding something to play.
EISA PREMIUM WIRELESS BOOKSHELF LOUDSPEAKERS 2024-2025
Triangle Capella
Triangle’s Capella offers audiophiles a high-quality, one-stop solution by partnering its set of wireless bookshelf/standmount speakers with a WISA Stereo Hub that’s pre-paired to make setup a breeze. The 192kHz/24-bit Hub manages sources both wired and wireless – from USB and HDMI ARC to Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast and DLNA – for playback from the Capella’s powered, two-way cabinets. The sound is notable for the broad, smooth dispersion of Triangle’s horn-loaded alloy dome tweeter, and its rich, controlled bass delivery; app-based manual and automatic EQ can be employed if desired. Finish options, including striking Astral Blue and Brown Nebula, are as smart as the Capella system itself.
EISA PREMIUM WIRELESS HEADPHONES 2024-2025
DALI IO-12
Joining the earlier EISA Award-winning IO-6 in DALI’s active noise-cancelling headphone lineup, the IO-12 finds the Danish manufacturer taking a ‘True Hi-Fi’ approach to music listening on the move. This premium model leverages DALI’s knowledge of loudspeaker design, backing its 50mm rigid paper/fibre drivers with a motor system using its custom SMC material, while the latest noise-cancelling and Bluetooth technologies, configured by DALI engineers, refine its performance. A headphone with myriad talents, including hi-res playback via USB-C and a choice of three ANC modes, the IO-12 dispenses fine details, a lavish midrange and impressive bass, guaranteeing you’ll always come back for more.
EISA PREMIUM WIRELESS SPEAKER 2024-2025
Meridian Ellipse
Incorporating engineering principles derived from Meridian’s DSP8000 XE and DSP9 towers – the standard bearers of its Extreme Engineering Programme – the Ellipse proves high-fidelity is possible from a compact, wireless speaker. Marrying a trio of active drivers to a powerful DSP platform, its performance showcases superb clarity, deep bass and – if required – a room-filling output. Among its streaming options are AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Roon, accompanied by USB, optical and analogue inputs for wired sources. Meridian’s Ellipse is therefore impressively versatile, a characteristic mirrored by the suite of sound tuning options in its partnering Control app.
EISA STREAMER 2024-2025
Eversolo DMP-A8
It’s not often a product arrives that redefines its category, but Eversolo’s DMP-A8 streamer does exactly that. Inside its slender aluminium housing, the latest dual-chip AKM DAC solution is married to a high-quality R2R volume control, making it a capable preamplifier, while an array of inputs and outputs – from balanced analogue to USB-B – handle source and amp connection. At the core of the DMP-A8 is a flexible, Android-based OS with built-in streaming services, excellent file format support and advanced DSP possibilities, expandable with further third-party apps – all displayed on a lavish colour touchscreen. However you use Eversolo’s streamer, your music will sound and look great!
EISA STREAMING AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
Rotel RAS-5000
By embracing modern streaming and usability features but not straying from its manufacturer’s ‘performance-first’ ethos, the RAS-5000 is a desirable addition to Rotel’s range – and the streaming amp market as a whole. A confident driver of loudspeakers courtesy of its rated 2x140W Class AB output, the RAS-5000 tackles all music genres with a sonic signature showcasing a powerful yet smooth, balanced approach. Versatile connectivity also impresses, with digital inputs including HDMI eARC, USB-B and Wi-Fi/Ethernet feeding its high-quality DAC stage. Playback is a breeze, either through Rotel’s own app, a DLNA player, or Roon, and icing the RAS-5000 cake is the amp’s meticulous build and informative colour display.
EISA STREAMING PREAMPLIFIER 2024-2025
NAD Masters M66
With the M66, NAD has given audiophiles a preamplifier that’s a fit for both streaming and vinyl playback – and a fine match for the mighty M23 power amp of its flagship Masters series. A host of connections, including HDMI ARC and dedicated MM and MC phono inputs, gives the M66 the flexibility to stand out in a crowded market, as does its 175mm touchscreen display; control NAD’s preamp here, or through the refreshed BluOS app with its multitude of streaming services. To top it off, the M66 supports connection of up to four subwoofers, expertly integrated through Dirac Live Bass Control. This opens the door to a huge sonic performance leap, taking an already fine-sounding DAC/streamer/preamp to another level.
EISA TURNTABLE 2024-2025
Pro-Ject XA B
There’s something magical about seeing your vinyl records spinning above the clear acrylic plinth of the XA B. Fielding multiple Pro-Ject technologies and built in Europe, this is a striking turntable – and a very capable one. The XA B’s inert chassis houses clean power circuits, an electronic speed control and a sub-platter with extremely tight bearing tolerances, all enabling smooth, reliable performance. A high-quality Pick it Pro Balanced cartridge is pre-mounted on a 10in tonearm for ease of use, resulting in engaging sonics without setup anxiety. And with the cartridge and the mini-XLR (balanced) output providing an upgrade path, the XA B is an excellent choice for vinyl lovers now and for the future.
Joint with Home Theatre Audio
EISA AV FURNITURE
2024-2025
Blok Stax 2G
EISA COMPACT STREAMING AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
Marantz MODEL M1
EISA PREMIUM LOUDSPEAKER SERIES 2024-2025
Bowers & Wilkins 700 S3 Signature
EISA PREMIUM SOUNDBAR 2024-2025
CANVAS HiFi, CANVAS
Joint with Mobile
EISA COMPACT DAC 2024-2025
iFi Audio GO Bar Kensei
EISA PORTABLE LOUDSPEAKER 2024-2025
Morel Biggie
HT AUDIO EXPERT GROUP
EISA AV RECEIVER 2024-2025
Marantz CINEMA 30
EISA HOME THEATRE LOUDSPEAKER SERIES 2024-2025
SVS Ultra Evolution
EISA HOME THEATRE PROCESSOR 2024-2025
Primare SP25 Prisma
EISA HOME THEATRE SOUNDBAR 2024-2025
Samsung HW-Q990D
EISA HOME THEATRE SUBWOOFER 2024-2025
Perlisten R18s
EISA COMPACT SOUNDBAR 2024-2025
Sennheiser Ambeo Mini
HT VIDEO EXPERT GROUP
EISA BEST BUY MINI LED TV 2024-2025
Ηisense 65U7NQ
EISA BEST BUY OLED TV 2024-2025
Philips 55OLED809
EISA BEST BUY UST PROJECTOR 2024-2025
Hisense PL2
EISA BEST FAMILY TV 2024-2025
Philips 65PML9009
EISA BEST HOME THEATRE OLED TV 2024-2025
Philips 65OLED+959
EISA FAMILY PROJECTOR 2024-2025
Hisense C1
EISA GAMING TV 2024-2025
TCL 55C765
EISA GIANT TV 2024-2025
Ηisense 100E7NQ Pro
EISA HOME THEATRE MINI LED TV 2024-2025
TCL 75C855
EISA PORTABLE PROJECTOR 2024-2025
XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro
EISA PREMIUM MINI LED TV 2024-2025
Hisense 65U8NQ
EISA PREMIUM OLED TV 2024-2025
Samsung 65S95D
EISA STATEMENT TV 2024-2025
TCL 115X955 MAX
EISA UST PROJECTOR 2024-2025
XGIMI AURA 2
PHOTO EXPERT GROUP
EISA ADVANCED FULL-FRAME CAMERA 2024-2025
Nikon Z6III
EISA APS-C CAMERA 2024-2025
Sony Alpha 6700
EISA BEST BUY TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
TAMRON 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2
EISA BEST BUY WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
TAMRON 17-50mm F4 Di III VXD
EISA CAMERA OF THE YEAR 2024-2025
Sony Alpha 9 III
EISA COMPACT CAMERA 2024-2025
Fujifilm X100VI
EISA FULL-FRAME CAMERA 2024-2025
Nikon Zf
EISA LENS OF THE YEAR 2024-2025
SIGMA 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art
EISA MICRO FOUR THIRDS CAMERA 2024-2025
Panasonic Lumix G9II
EISA PHOTO/VIDEO ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
Canon RF 24-105mm F2.8 L IS Z
EISA PORTRAIT LENS 2024-2025
Nikon NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena
EISA STANDARD ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art
EISA SUPER TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR
EISA SUPERZOOM LENS 2024-2025
Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR
EISA TELEPHOTO LENS 2024-2025
Sony FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS
EISA TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
Sony FE 70-200mm F4 Macro G OSS II
EISA ULTRA WIDEANGLE LENS 2024-2025
Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D FF
EISA ULTRA WIDEANGLE ZOOM LENS 2024-2025
Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM
EISA WIDEANGLE LENS 2024-2025
Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 G
MOBILE DEVICES EXPERT GROUP
EISA AI SMARTPHONE 2024-2025
OPPO Reno12 Pro
EISA CREATOR SMARTPHONE 2024-2025
Sony Xperia 1 VI
EISA SMART RING 2024-2025
Oura Ring
EISA SMARTPHONE 2024-2025
HONOR 200 Pro
EISA SMARTWATCH 2024-2025
Huawei Watch 4 Pro Space Edition
IN-CAR EXPERT GROUP
EISA IN-CAR AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
BRAX REVELATION RX2 PRO
EISA IN-CAR DASHCAM 2024-2025
BlackVue DR970X-2CH Box Plus
EISA IN-CAR DSP AMPLIFIER 2024-2025
ESX VE1300.11SP
EISA IN-CAR HEAD UNIT 2024-2025
Sony XAV-9550ES
EISA IN-CAR HIGH-END COMPONENT 2024-2025
ESB Novemila Series
EISA IN-CAR INTEGRATION 2024-2025
Eton UG BMW Ultimate Series
EISA IN-CAR OEM PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM 2024-2025
Lotus Eletre with KEF Reference Audio System
EISA IN-CAR PREMIUM UPGRADE 2024-2025
HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP
EISA IN-CAR SUBWOOFER 2024-2025
Ground Zero GZPW-10SQX
EISA MARINE AUDIO COMPONENT 2024-2025
Hertz Venezia V8 DSP
