We’ve rounded up some of the coolest audio products on the market right now. Check out our list of new and affordable audio options!
More:
High-End Affordable Audio: Cabasse RIALTO Wireless Hi-Fi System (2990 € /approx. $2950)
The RIALTO is a beautiful new active speaker system designed by the French company Cabasse, and inspired by Venice’s most famous and oldest bridge. It’s their first bookshelf speaker system, and according to the company, it symbolizes the junction between traditional hi-fi and the connected technologies they have developed over the last decade.
The RIALTO bookshelf speakers were designed to provide high-quality sound without being too large. They feature a 13 cm co-axial carbon fiber tweeter/midrange unit. This allows the speaker to produce clear highs and deep bass. There’s also an aluminum frame surrounding the tweeter and mid-range unit, giving the speaker a sleek look.
In addition, RIALTO has a touchscreen control on its main speaker, where you can increase or decrease the volume with its rotation ring, change sources, and add or modify radio stations without going through the companion app. The color LCD video screen also displays the cover art of albums played.
It’s not cheap, but we still think it qualifies as affordable audio since you’re getting a complete high-end system for less than three grand.
Modern Vintage: NAD C 3050 LE Stereophonic Amplifier ($1972)
The 50th Anniversary NAD C 3050 LE Stereo Amplifier is a classic-looking stereo amplifier with a sleek black finish and a satin walnut wood veneer. It looks like it could have been made 50 years ago, but inside there are some very modern features.
Behind the VU meters, push buttons, and 1970 cursive branding, this amplifier offers BluOS High-Resolution Multi-Room Music Streaming, Dirac Live Room Correction, and NAD’s proven Hybrid Digital UcD amplifier design ( there’s also AirPlay 2, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, and HDMI eARC). You also get all the connections necessary to enjoy both analog and digital audio sources. This limited edition piece (only 1972 units will be made) will be available in November.
BTW, check out our new review of one of NAD’s most modern integrated amps, the NAD C 700.
Immersive Audio: 1MORE Aero True Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Headphones ($109)
The 1MORE Aero headphones offer a new listening experience with Spatial Audio. They use a built-in gyroscopic sensor to track your head movement and adjusts the audio accordingly. This allows you to immerse yourself in the music like never before.
Additionally, they come with a wide frequency range ANC system that blocks out more of the ambient noise around you. This makes it easier to enjoy your tunes without being distracted by outside sounds.
They also feature a new, patented technology called Smart Loudness, which allows users to enjoy a richer, fuller sound without having to crank up the volume.
Affordable Desktop Audio: Meze x iFi Complete Audiophile Kit Bundle ($799)
Just in time for the holidays, Meze Audio is bringing out some Headphone/Amp/DAC bundles that are matched for optimum sound quality. The Meze x iFi Complete Audiophile Kit includes everything you need to create a high-quality affordable audio system on your desktop.
It comes with the ZEN CAN Signature MZ99 headphone amplifier which is tuned specifically for Meze headphones, the ZEN DAC Signature v2 digital-to-analogue converter, the Meze Audio 99 Classics headphone in Walnut Silver, a Balanced Silver-Plated Upgrade Cable with 4.4mm connection, and a iFi 4.4mm to 4.4mm Balanced cable to connect the DAC and Amp.
The Bundle sells for $799, which saves you 25% versus what you pay buying these items separately.
Hifitrends is reader-supported. We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links on our site.
Leave a Reply