Hi-Fi Essentials
Hardware and treatment for a system you already own: headphones, DACs, amplifiers, streamers, isolation, racks and grounding. The next purchase after the system exists.
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This is the upgrade section rather than the starting point. It assumes you have a system, know roughly what it does well, and want to work out what to change next.
The order that usually works starts with the mechanical foundation. A rack that resonates undermines everything sitting on it, so proper support and isolation come first. Then the source, because nothing downstream can recover what a poor source has already lost. Then the electronics, and last the treatments that sit around the edges of a system, such as grounding.
Some of what is here is uncontested. Speaker stands, isolation feet and a rigid rack do measurable and audible things. Other categories, grounding in particular, divide opinion sharply, and we say so on the pages where that applies. What we will not do is recommend something we have not heard, or call a component essential when your system does not need it. Tell us what you are running and what you want to improve, and we will give you a straight answer.
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£199.99 £249.17Ex. VAT ✓ Save £49.18The ZEN CAN Signature by iFi Audio is a headphone amplifier that is designed to bring the best out of all headphones. Featuring XSpace & XBass analogue processing modes, the Zen CAN Signature can enhance the soundstage and low-frequency response of your headphones. With variable gain and a host of technological features which would usually be found on far more expensive products, the ZEN CAN Signature offers high performance at a very reasonable price.
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From£1,829.17Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio TS-1 Music Streamer and Headphone Amplifier is an all-in-one streaming DAC and headphone amp, combining high-resolution network playback, a fully balanced DAC stage, and a powerful headphone amplifier for headphones or active speaker systems.
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£100.00Ex. VAT
QSA proudly announce the newest product in their range of jitters that aim to reduce 'Bottleneck Distortion' - the IEC Jitters. Quantum Science Audio's Organic-Blue Jitters provide a balanced and sophisticated sound experience. The improved clarity between all instrumentals and vocal layers allows the listener to more accurately pick out individual elements in the music for a more immersive listening experience.
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£7,916.67Ex. VAT
The Gold Note Mediterraneo X is a high-end, belt-driven turntable that blends tradition with advanced technology, featuring a touchscreen for precise control of motor speed and torque, as well as a timer to monitor stylus wear. Crafted from machined solid aluminium and Italian wood, its design ensures maximum stability, vibration minimisation, and exceptional audio performance.
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From£1,500.00Ex. VATHP-10 may ensure pristine signal integrity for fantastic sound clarity.Its range of outputs supports various headphone connectors, ensuring every detail of your favorite tracks comes alive. Perfect for home or studio setups. Enjoy effortless control via the intuitive touchscreen display, remote, or rotary knob. Customise your sound with cutting-edge features like 4 Crossfeed modes for an immersive 3D soundstage, Harman Curve EQ for headphone-optimised audio, and adjustable gain, damping factor, and balance.
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£1,662.50Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio TT-1 Digital Audio Transport is a versatile mid-range network streamer and digital source, combining advanced clocking, wide format support, multiple digital outputs, and upgradeable power options to deliver clean, low-jitter performance across modern hi-fi systems.
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£850.00Ex. VAT
QSA proudly announce the newest product in their range of jitters that aim to reduce 'Bottleneck Distortion' - the IEC Jitters. Organic-Red Jitters offer superior layering of instruments and a deep integration of all audio elements, providing a superior listening experience. These jitters allow for a greater dynamic range and increased clarity in most audio environments, providing a richer and fuller sound.
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£5,833.33Ex. VAT
The Gold Note Mediterraneo Turntable combines Italian artistry and modern engineering to deliver exceptional vinyl playback, featuring a 60mm thick curved plinth based on the Catenary curve and a high-density POM platter for precision. Its Renaissance-inspired design and advanced technology, including a 12V synchronous motor and proprietary control system, offer both aesthetic appeal and superior sound quality.
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£1,495.83Ex. VATThe Ferrum ERCO merges HYPSOS innovation with decades of D/A converter expertise. Featuring balanced and transparent sound, MQA decoding, and hybrid design, it improves personal audio. With versatile outputs for headphones and speakers, the ERCO thrives with its Ferrum Power Link for enhanced performance. Pair with HYPSOS to achieve optimal clarity and immersive audio.
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£1,850.00Ex. VAT
QSA proudly announce the newest product in their range of jitters that aim to reduce 'Bottleneck Distortion' - the IEC Jitters. Organic-Silver Jitters offer improved clarity and a crisp sound profile, making it the ideal choice for those who enjoy a clear, forward vocals. With Organic-Silver Jitters, you can hear every detail of your favourite songs with impressive accuracy.
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£132.50Ex. VAT
Using a high quality plastic body, and featuring Cryo-treated, Gold-plated fittings, allows this to be the perfect way to get power into your equipment. A good size cable entry gland is fitted to permit the use of most CE-approved mains cables (if you want to re-terminate your existing power cables).
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£3,750.00Ex. VAT
The Giglio turntable combines elegant Italian design with advanced technology, featuring a high-density POM platter and a 12V synchronous motor with micro-controller for precise, vibration-free audio playback. Made from premium walnut wood and including a complete setup with a tonearm and dust cover, it's a refined choice for audiophiles seeking both performance and aesthetics.