An overview of the 2024-2025 Hi-Fi systems that won the prestigious Eisa awards, in which the best product nominations were received by: speakers, audio amplifiers, network players, turntables, headphones, headphone amplifiers, wireless speakers, soundbar system, DAC converter.
Awards were received by:
- Wilson Audio The WATT/Puppy - floorstanding speakers
- SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle - floorstanding speakers
- Monitor Audio Gold Series 300 6G - floor standing speakers
- Bowers & Wilkins 700 S3 Signature - speaker series
- Triangle Capella - premium wireless bookshelf speakers
- PSB Alpha iQ - wireless bookshelf speakers
- HiFi Rose RA280 - integrated audio amplifier
- Musical Fidelity A1 - enthusiast audio amplifier
- T+AR 2500 R - premium all-in-one audio amplifier
- Hegel H400 - premium network player
- Rotel RAS-5000 - network player and amplifier in one
- NAD Masters M66 - network player with DAC and preamplifier
- Pro-Ject XA B - turntable
- Austrian Audio The Composer - High-End headphones
- DALI IO-12 - premium wireless headphones
- iFi Audio iDSD Diablo 2 - headphone amplifier
- Marantz MODEL M1 - compact network stereo amplifier
- WiiM Amp - best value network stereo amplifier
- Eversolo DMP-A8 - network player
- Meridian Ellipse - premium wireless speaker
- Morel Biggie - portable speaker
- CANVAS HiFi, CANVAS - premium soundbar system
- Blok Stax 2G - AV amplifier shelf
- iFi Audio GO Bar Kensei - compact DAC converter
Wilson Audio The WATT/Puppy - floorstanding speakers
By incorporating new cutting-edge technology into the WATT/Puppy design, Wilson Audio has successfully reimagined this most iconic speaker. The form factor may remain unchanged – the WATT/Puppy still mounts an isolated two-way enclosure on a dual-driver woofer section – but much more is new. The CSC tweeter was first developed for its Alexx V model, while the woofers and midrange drivers are taken from the more expensive Sasha V. In addition, the crossover network, custom cabinet materials, speaker assemblies and head unit adjustment have been optimized for this model. Meanwhile, the performance defies expectations: phenomenal bass control and power, clear detail and top-notch musicality. The WATT/Puppy is a triumph of audio engineering.
SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle - floorstanding speakers
SVS’s top-of-the-line Ultra Evolution series loudspeaker is a true statement of intent from the American manufacturer. Featuring a new time-honored cabinet architecture, an improved diamond-coated tweeter design and no fewer than four 200mm woofers configured in “force-balanced” pairs, the Pinnacle floorstander has all the hallmarks of the flagship model. And so does its performance. With attention to detail in the cabinet construction and mounting hardware, including 25mm thick front and rear baffles, the Ultra Evolution Pinnacle produces huge, atmospheric sounds backed by deep, punchy bass and rich detail – all without the need for partner amplification.
Monitor Audio Gold Series 300 6G - floorstanding speakers
Monitor Audio uses technology from its higher-end Platinum 3G and Hyphn models to deliver a comprehensive update to the Gold 300 floorstander. Key new features include C-CAM mid- and woofers, now featuring Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology (HDT) for improved rigidity, and the exclusive Monitor Audio Micro-Pleated Diaphragm III tweeter. The latter’s detailed, extended highs give the Gold 300 6G’s full-bodied midrange and wonderfully deep bass an airy feel – an addictive sound that’s sure to make listening sessions fly by. Aesthetic design is also the gold standard, with this slim floorstander looking great in black, satin white or faux ebony veneer options.
Bowers & Wilkins 700 S3 Signature - speaker series
Three models in the Bowers & Wilkins 700 S3 Series are getting a Signature update, making the high-performance speakers a hit with both hi-fi and home cinema enthusiasts. The 702 S3 Signature floorstanding, 705 S3 Signature bookshelf and HTM71 S3 Signature centre speakers feature new crossover networks and terminal plates, improved sound suspensions and redesigned tweeter grilles, all derived from the brand’s flagship 800 D4 Signature line. These carefully considered improvements are complemented by a stunning Datuk Gloss and Midnight Blue Metallic finish, making the 700 S3 Signature speakers look as good as they sound: vibrant and dynamic, with effortless imaging and fine detail. Whether you’re listening to music in stereo or 5.1 movies, this series is perfect for you!
Triangle Capella - premium wireless bookshelf speakers
Triangle's Capella offers audiophiles a high-quality, one-stop solution by partnering its wireless bookshelf/stand-mount speaker set with the WISA stereo hub, which comes pre-paired for easy setup. The 192kHz/24-bit hub handles both wired and wireless sources, from USB and HDMI ARC to Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast and DLNA for playback from Capella's powered two-way cabinets. The sound is distinguished by the wide, smooth dispersion of the Triangle alloy dome tweeter and the rich, controlled bass response; manual and automatic EQ are available in the app if desired. Finish options, including the striking Astral Blue and Brown Nebula, are as smart as the Capella system itself.
PSB Alpha iQ - wireless bookshelf speakers
Designed with performance and ease of use in mind, the PSB Alpha iQ is the first active stereo speaker system to feature the BluOS platform, linking it to a multi-room ecosystem with seamless app control and music playback capabilities. With additional connectivity options including AirPlay, aptX HD Bluetooth, HDMI ARC and MM phono, the Alpha iQ is suited to the modern mix of wired and wireless sources, and its performance is just as enjoyable. Two-way driver arrays in each compact cabinet, combined with an independent built-in amplifier, deliver detailed, smooth sound.Choose from PSB's black or white finish for a discreet installation, or make the Alpha iQ the center of attention with one of three vibrant colors!
HiFi Rose RA280 - integrated audio amplifier
Since its appearance on the hi-fi scene in 2017, HiFi Rose has been captivating audiophiles with products that combine high-quality engineering and performance with a unique sense of style. The RA280 analog integrated amplifier is no exception, its elegant casing with touch-sensitive front panel controls (and VU meters) conceals an innovative GaN FET-based Class D amplifier that comfortably exceeds the 2x250W specification. Using a balanced line input or a moving magnet phono stage, the RA280 dazzles with a detailed, spacious stereo image and dynamic, exciting sound that will have you turning the illuminated volume dial. The HiFi Rose amplifier far exceeds its price.
Musical Fidelity A1 - enthusiast audio amplifier
Musical Fidelity's A1 integrated amplifier takes music lovers on a journey back in time, resurrecting the distinctive, slim cabinet styling and much of the under-the-hood design of the company's famous 1980s original. It remains a fully analog amplifier with MM/MC phono, line input and tape loop connections, but now benefits from thoughtful upgrades to the power supply and internal heat dissipation, and adds a welcome direct mode that bypasses the preamplifier's gain. Otherwise, this 2 x 25 WA class unit picks up where its predecessor left off - featuring an organic, almost tube-like presentation that delivers music with thrilling breadth and expression.
T+AR 2500 R - premium all-in-one audio amplifier
Traditional hi-fi lore dictates that the best sound performance requires separate components. But the T+AR 2500 R says otherwise. This all-in-one amplifier is undoubtedly a premium product, based on dual mono Class AB amplification, a custom PSU and a dual DAC architecture – where the DSD input is separately driven by a dedicated 1-bit converter – to deliver power and subtlety to your music. It’s also a true multi-source device, allowing you to play CDs, listen to FM/DAB+ radio or stream content via the handy T+A app or the R 2500 R’s built-in Roon. Meanwhile, comprehensive connectivity, including HDMI inputs and ARC, USB DAC, headphone output and Bluetooth streaming, prepares it for any user scenario.
Hegel H400 - premium network player
This beautifully engineered amp builds on the legacy of the previous Hegel H390, improving its streaming platform, DAC and preamp stages, as well as introducing app control to create an undeniably compelling streaming amp. As we’ve come to expect from the Norwegian brand, the H400’s power is superb, making it a great driver for power-hungry speakers, while the natural, transparent sound effortlessly brings your music to life. No genre is off-limits, and with streaming options including Tidal Connect, Google Cast, UPnP and Airable radio/podcasts (as well as the H400’s range of wired inputs), you’ll have no trouble finding something to play.
Rotel RAS-5000 - network player and amplifier in one
Incorporating modern streaming and usability features, while remaining true to the manufacturer’s “performance first” ethos, the RAS-5000 is a welcome addition to the Rotel range and the streaming amplifier market as a whole. With its rated 2x140W Class AB output, the RAS-5000 speaker amplifier is perfect for all genres of music. The versatile connectivity also impresses – digital inputs including HDMI eARC, USB-B and Wi-Fi/Ethernet feed the high-quality DAC stage. Playback is a breeze using the Rotel app, DLNA player or Roon, and the RAS-5000’s meticulous amplifier design and informative colour display complete the cake.
NAD Masters M66 - network player with DAC and preamplifier
With the M66, NAD has given audiophiles a preamp that is suitable for both streaming and vinyl playback, and is a perfect match for the powerful M23 power amplifier from its flagship Masters series. A wealth of connections, including HDMI ARC and dedicated MM and MC phono inputs, give the M66 the flexibility to stand out in a crowded market, as does its 175mm touchscreen; control the NAD preamp here or via the updated BluOS app with a range of streaming services. In addition, the M66 supports the connection of up to four subwoofers, expertly integrated via Dirac Live Bass Control. This opens the door to a huge leap in audio performance, taking an already great-sounding DAC/streamer/preamp to the next level.
Pro-Ject XA B - turntable
There's something magical about watching your vinyl records spin over the clear acrylic XA B plinth. Utilising several Pro-Ject technologies and designed in Europe, this turntable is impressive and very powerful. The inertial XA B chassis features clean power circuits, an electronic speed controller and a secondary platter with extremely tight bearing tolerances, all of which ensure smooth and reliable operation. The high-quality Pick it Pro Balanced cartridge comes pre-mounted on a 10-inch tonearm for ease of use, giving you a great sound without the worry of setup. With a cartridge and mini XLR (balanced) output allowing for upgradeability, the XA B is a great choice for vinyl lovers now and in the future.
Austrian Audio The Composer - High-End headphones
Drawing on decades of experience in headphone design from its engineering team, Austrian Audio has taken the plunge with this high-performance on-ear model. The Composer sounds just like its name, with custom 49mm Hi-X drivers and open-backed enclosures delivering musical, dynamic and detailed sound that’s perfect for listening at home or in the studio. Comfort is also top-notch, with a lightweight metal frame, smart mesh headband and extensive adjustability for a perfect fit over hours of use. The included luxury case includes a full selection of cables, allowing you to enjoy The Composer’s premium presentation with any DAC/amplifier straight out of the box. These are reference headphones to be treasured.
DALI IO-12 - premium wireless headphones
Joining the previous EISA award-winning IO-6 in DALI’s range of active noise-cancelling headphones, the IO-12 sees the Danish manufacturer take a ‘True Hi-Fi’ approach to music listening on the go. This top-of-the-range model utilises DALI’s expertise in speaker design, with 50mm rigid paper/fibre drivers supported by a motor system using a custom SMC material, while the latest noise-cancelling and Bluetooth technologies, configured by DALI engineers, enhance its performance. A headphone with a wealth of talents, including high-resolution playback via USB-C and a choice of three ANC modes, the IO-12 delivers superb detail, sumptuous mids and impressive bass, keeping you coming back for more.
iFi Audio iDSD Diablo 2 - headphone amplifier
If the original iFi Audio Diablo headphone amplifier was a breath of fresh air, this second-generation model will blow your mind. Updates include a MEMS headphone mode, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and iFi Audio's latest PureWave balanced circuit design, as well as a new metallic red housing with grooves to support the Diablo 2's desktop stand at various angles. The flexibility impresses both in terms of functionality (the Diablo 2 will act as an external DAC/preamp if desired) and headphone compatibility. Use iFi Audio's iEMatch technology with sensitive ears and rest assured that this amplifier's 4800mAh battery can easily handle demanding headphones with Turbo and Nitro modes.
Marantz MODEL M1 - compact network stereo amplifier
Don’t be fooled by the MODEL M1’s small size and minimalist design. With its 2x100W digital Class D power stage and wide-ranging feature set, the compact Marantz amplifier effortlessly drives speakers to take care of your music and TV audio needs. The integrated HEOS streaming platform and control app, as well as AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth connectivity, make music playback easy, while HDMI eARC, Dolby Digital decoding and subwoofer support take care of movie nights with a 2.1 system. And while the MODEL M1 is suited to many roles – its compact form factor also makes it suitable for CI setups – this amplifier’s excellent audio performance remains true to the Marantz heritage.
WiiM Amp - Best Value Network Stereo Amplifier
A new entrant into the “just add speakers” arena, the WiiM Amp catches the eye with its neat, easy-to-install body and affordable price, then wows with its versatile feature set and performance. Streaming capabilities are extensive—from Spotify/Tidal Connect to playback via Roon, DLNA, AirPlay, and the WiiM Home app—choose your music, and this little amp delivers a hearty performance powered by a 2x60 WD Class A amplifier and an ESS Sword DAC. Want more? The WiiM Amp offers voice control, a USB port for external storage, two-way Bluetooth for listening on headphones, HDMI ARC connectivity, and detailed EQ settings via the app.In short, it's a small box with a lot of appeal!
Eversolo DMP-A8 - network player
It’s not often that a product comes along that redefines its category, but the Eversolo DMP-A8 streamer does just that. In a slim aluminum body, the latest dual-chip AKM DAC solution is paired with a high-quality R2R volume control, making it a proper preamplifier, while a host of inputs and outputs – from balanced analog to USB-B – handle source and amplifier connections. At the heart of the DMP-A8 is a flexible, Android-based OS with built-in streaming services, excellent file format support, and advanced DSP capabilities that can be expanded with other third-party apps – all displayed on a gorgeous color touchscreen. However you use the Eversolo streamer, your music will sound and look great!
Meridian Ellipse - premium wireless speaker
Using engineering principles derived from Meridian’s DSP8000 XE and DSP9 towers – standard bearers of the Extreme Engineering Program – the Ellipse proves that high-fidelity is possible in a compact, wireless speaker. Combining a trio of active drivers with a powerful DSP platform, its performance delivers superb clarity, deep bass and, when required, room-filling output. Its streaming options include AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Roon, along with USB, optical and analogue inputs for wired sources. Meridian’s Ellipse is therefore impressively versatile – a characteristic reflected in the range of sound tuning options in its companion Control app.
Morel Biggie - portable speaker
With a playful name and a wide range of colors, Morel's Biggie is a wireless speaker with a fun side. But while it's small and easy to carry thanks to its leather handle and built-in rechargeable battery, the dual-driver configuration—a 25mm tweeter and a 100mm woofer, each with its own dedicated amplifier—delivers a wide-ranging, powerful sound. Useful features include True Wireless Stereo (TWS), which lets you pair two Biggies in a separate two-channel system, fast charging via USB-C, and support for Bluetooth Auracast. The design is also impressive: the Biggie's illuminated controls make setup easy and let you know the battery status.
CANVAS HiFi, CANVAS - premium soundbar system
At first glance, CANVAS looks like a regular soundbar, but it’s so much more. Designed for use with your TV or as a standalone Hi-Fi system, it combines a stereo driver array and four-way amplifier with innovative BACCH 3D crosstalk cancellation to deliver your favourite music or film content in a huge format. scale with authentic imaging. Features include room correction, wireless streaming and HDMI eARC, and it’s also customizable with a choice of wood or textile-finished decorative front panel. Sizes can be specified to suit TV screens from 55” to 77”, and CANVAS’s hybrid mount supports both wall and floor mounting.
Blok Stax 2G - AV amplifier shelf
Often overlooked, AV furniture plays a crucial role in achieving the best performance from your sound system, whether it’s stereo or multi-channel. Blok’s Stax 2G is a great example of this, combining smart, functional design with isolation and resonance control technology to best accommodate your system components. The modular approach of the Stax 2G makes it easy to create an equipment rack that exactly meets your needs, and cable management is just as easy. Adjustable feet mean that the often difficult task of leveling AV furniture is also easy. Blok’s Stax 2G is available in a range of finishes, ensuring your system delivers the best performance.
iFi Audio GO Bar Kensei - compact DAC converter
Combining USB DAC and headphone amplifier technology in a compact, pocket-friendly design, the GO Bar Kensei is perfect for audiophiles on the go. Using a USB-C connection for both power and high-resolution playback, the stunning portable iFi Audio headphone delivers outstanding performance whether you’re using IEMs or regular headphones via 3.5mm/4.4mm outputs. The GO Bar’s high-quality hardware engineering and integration of JVCKENWOOD K2HD processing to bring the natural sound of digital recordings to life. A range of filters and analogue EQ settings can be selected to enhance the GO Bar Kensei’s sound – all indicated by status lights on the smart brushed aluminium body.
