A new wave of affordable hi-fi brands is shaking up the audio world, proving you don’t need a royal budget to enjoy premium sound — and they’re doing it with the cunning of a Blackadder plot twist and far fewer turnips exploding in the background. These budget audiophile disruptors are redefining music listening for a new generation.
In 2025, value-packed hi-fi gear delivers serious performance without forcing you to sell your sock drawer. Whether you’re an audiophile or upgrading from a Bluetooth brick, great sound is finally affordable again.
These affordable hi-fi brands are leading the charge—and there’s never been a better time to ditch your Sonos setup or stop using a soundbar for music (seriously, just stop).
The one fly in the ointment of this affordable hi-fi brand orgy that would make even Lord Flashheart blush? Tariffs — those magical economic sledgehammers that suddenly make your imported amp cost as much as a weekend escape to Cape Town.
As global trade policies zigzag like a drunkard inside the Treasury Department on roller skates, overseas manufacturers are finding their “affordable” gear landing in the U.S. with price tags that now scream “wait, what?”
A quick glance at a few websites reveals a growing chorus of “We are unable to ship to U.S. customers at this time” — the digital equivalent of a shrug and a locked door.
Meanwhile, companies like Schiit Audio — proudly designed and built in the USA with a business model that flips the bird to bloated markups — are sitting rather comfortably, thank you very much. While other brands scramble to rethink their supply chains or slap together “assembled in somewhere-you’ve-never-heard-of” stickers, Schiit is quietly continuing to deliver solid gear without the drama.
Why 2025 Is the Year of the Stereo Resurgence
The resurgence of stereo listening isn’t just a trend — it’s a full-blown rebellion against the tyranny of background noise. After years of enduring soul-crushing compressed audio — the kind of cold, lifeless sound Anton Chigurh might use to lull a victim into despair before flipping a coin — listeners are finally waking up.
Streaming services like Spotify have convinced millions to trade depth and detail for convenience, leaving music flatter than a Texas Badlands highway. If it weren’t for TIDAL and Qobuz, audiophiles who enjoy streaming would be left wandering aimlessly through a sea of low-quality MP3s, like the Israelites in the desert—only instead of matzo, they’d be stuck with the dry, tasteless bread of mediocre audio.
It’s not just bad sound; it’s a sonic death sentence, carried out by algorithms with all the mercy of a bolt gun to the forehead. But now, a new wave of listeners is saying no country for old earbuds, and choosing systems that actually feel like music again.
Vinyl and CDs are back (because apparently everything old is cool again), physical media is being revered like sacred relics instead of tossed in the Goodwill bin, and people are carving out spaces in their homes—not to doomscroll or half-watch something while folding laundry, but to actually sit down, shut up, and listen like it’s 1994.
It’s less of a hobby now and more of a glorious act of rebellion. The hi-fi revival is here, and it’s flipping a well-deserved bird to the old, corporate hedge fund fucks with bad dye jobs and worse instincts who gutted Hi-Fi for profit — and yes, I mean every damn word of that.
Hi-Fi YouTube channels, online forums, and local audio groups have sparked a thriving community of audiophiles — from wide-eyed rookies to seasoned veterans who’ve finally realized the absurdity of $3,000 ethernet cables and $80,000 turntables.
These days, only Hi-Fi reviewers are still clutching onto that nonsense. The global success of the CanJam Series of headphone shows proves this isn’t just a trend — it’s a full-blown revolution. Though, I do have to ask… is it too soon for a “off with their heads, Prince George?” moment?
I know a guy.
This surge of interest has sparked a demand for budget-friendly hi-fi systems that actually deliver quality — unlike one of Baldrick’s so-called “cunning plans,” which usually end in disaster and a suspiciously empty sack. And these budget systems certainly won’t get you shot while going over the top during the big push — trust me, the pencil-in-the-nose trick never worked for me in school either.
How High-End Prices and Personal Audio Are Reshaping the Hi-Fi Landscape
The soaring prices of traditional high-end audio gear — often stretching into the tens of thousands — have increasingly alienated younger and budget-conscious listeners. At the same time, the rise of personal audio (think high-quality headphones, DAC/amps, and streaming gear) has opened a new gateway into the audiophile world.
Today’s listeners are digital nomads with taste. They want goosebumps, not gear racks—the emotional hit of great sound without sacrificing half their living space or refinancing the apartment. The old-school “sweet spot or bust” mentality? That’s fading. Instead, there’s a rising demand for gear that’s compact, badass, and delivers hi-fi performance without the high-maintenance drama—bridging the gap between headphone culture and two-channel tradition.
This shift is forcing manufacturers to innovate below the $1,000 mark, blending portability, performance, and digital convenience — and in doing so, they’re attracting an entirely new generation of audiophiles. In short, the gatekeepers are being outflanked by clever, cunning upstarts who are redefining what “hi-fi” means in 2025.
The traditional high-end brands who still believe their customer base is going to live forever need to stop inhaling whatever they were puffing on back at Woodstock. Newsflash, lads: times have bloody well changed. The world isn’t waiting for your over-priced, over-hyped gear to stay relevant — and no amount of walnut veneer or gold-plated knobs is going to change that.
The days of expecting audiophiles to fork out a small fortune for your “exclusive” gear while they try not to fall asleep in your listening rooms are long gone. Even Lord Blackadder himself would tell you to wake up and smell the reasonably priced coffee before your sales figures end up as dead as Prince George’s chances of being crowned anytime soon.
What Makes a Hi-Fi Brand “Affordable” but Great
Affordable doesn’t mean cheap. The best budget hi-fi gear strikes a perfect balance between cost and performance — The “new” entry-level audiophile setup usually clocks in under $1,000 and includes an integrated amplifier, a pair of passive speakers, and a DAC or turntable.
Look at how music listeners have opened their ears and wallets to the Head-Fi Revolution. Sure, there are plenty of ridiculously expensive headphones and IEMs out there, but the market also offers a solid selection of models, DAPs, dongle DACs, and desktop headphone amplifiers that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Many of the brands listed below cut their teeth in the headphone space, and that success has built a loyal following among the next generation of audiophiles. HiFiMAN, Audeze, Grado Labs, Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic, Meze Audio, Questyle, and others have proven they can deliver category-leading products that people can actually afford.
Meanwhile, the high-end audio industry has pivoted to products that cost more than a car or a year at a 4-year college. So, who’s more likely to succeed in the long run? The ones making quality gear at prices that don’t make you sell your organs, or the ones betting that audiophiles will keep dropping insane amounts for gear that sounds “marginally” better than what they already own?
I’ve got a few leftover boxes of pencils and underwear that could be put to better use — namely, worn on the heads of manufacturers who haven’t quite grasped the sheer insanity of charging more for audio gear than most people’s annual mortgage payments.
Wibble.
The Best Affordable Hi-Fi Brands to Watch in 2025
These affordable Hi-Fi brands are shaping the future of stereo listening by offering gear that delivers exceptional performance without the sky-high price tag, making high-quality sound accessible to a wider audience.
Fosi Audio
Known for compact Class D amplifiers like the ZA3 and BT30D Pro, Fosi Audio delivers serious power and clarity at incredibly low prices, making them ideal for desktop or small-room systems. The brand has also branched out into DACs and headphone amplifiers as well.
Why They Matter
Fosi Audio is proving that you don’t need a giant, expensive amplifier to achieve better sound quality. Their products offer audiophile-level performance at a fraction of the cost, perfect for those who want quality without breaking the bank.
For more information: Fosi Audio
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SMSL
Specializing in high-performance DACs and amplifiers, SMSL offers sleek, modern gear that delivers exceptional transparency and precision. Products like the D400 Pro DAC and PA200 amplifier continue to earn praise from both critics and everyday listeners.
Why They Matter
SMSL has carved out a space as a go-to brand for budget-conscious audiophiles who don’t want to compromise on sound quality. By packing advanced features and clean, powerful audio into compact, affordable units, SMSL is helping to redefine what entry-level hi-fi can look—and sound—like.
For more information: SMSL Audio
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Topping
With a reputation for reference-level digital audio at mid-tier prices, Topping continues to impress with products like the D90 III DAC and A70 Pro headphone amplifier. Their gear is known for precision engineering, clean aesthetics, and benchmark-level performance.
Why They Matter
Topping has become a favorite among measurement-focused audiophiles and casual listeners alike. By delivering transparent, high-fidelity sound without bloated pricing, Topping proves that you don’t need to drain your savings to enjoy near-reference audio quality at home.
For more information: Topping
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Emotiva
U.S.-based Emotiva is known for delivering high-powered amplification at shockingly reasonable prices. The BasX A-300 stereo amplifier, for example, offers 150 watts per channel of clean, dynamic sound and rock-solid build quality — all for under $500.
Why They Matter
Emotiva brings a taste of high-end American hi-fi to the masses. Their focus on performance, reliability, and no-frills design gives budget-conscious audiophiles access to the kind of power and clarity that typically costs double (or triple) elsewhere. Their loudspeakers do the job rather well for a lot less money
For more information: Emotiva
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iFi Audio
UK-based iFi Audio has made a name for itself with compact, audiophile-grade DACs, headphone amps, and accessories that combine sleek design with cutting-edge performance. Products like the ZEN DAC 3 and GO bar are fan favorites for their portability and sound quality.
Why They Matter
iFi bridges the gap between portability and high-fidelity audio. Their gear is a favorite among headphone enthusiasts and desktop listeners who want high-end sound without hauling a full rack system. Smart engineering, solid build quality, and innovative features make iFi one of the most accessible high-performance brands on the market.
For more information: iFi Audio
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NAD
A true veteran of hi-fi, Canada’s NAD has built its legacy on minimalist, high-performance gear. Models like the C 316BEE V2 integrated amplifier and C 700 V2 streaming amplifier remain excellent entry-level options, offering rich, dynamic sound.
Why They Matter
NAD helped define what affordable hi-fi could be — and they’re still doing it decades later. Their “music first” philosophy and commitment to sonic purity ensure that every dollar goes toward performance, not flash. They’re a trusted bridge between the old-school and new-school audiophile.
For more information: NAD Electronics
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Cambridge Audio
Hailing from the UK, Cambridge Audio blends British engineering with modern design. The AXA35 integrated amplifier and CXN100 network streamer show their commitment to making refined sound accessible for today’s digital and analog listeners alike.
Why They Matter
Cambridge Audio consistently delivers audiophile-grade sound with user-friendly features and sleek design. They’re especially appealing to music lovers looking to build a modern hi-fi system that’s as stylish as it is musical.
For more information: Cambridge Audio
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Loxjie
Loxjie, a subsidiary of SMSL, is known for compact, eye-catching components like the A30 and D30. Their gear offers balanced connections, solid internals, and a refined aesthetic that punches way above what the price would suggest.
Why They Matter
Loxjie brings a splash of color and value to the world of desktop hi-fi. For budget-conscious users who care about both sound and style, Loxjie’s combination of performance and playful design makes them a standout in the crowded entry-level space.
For more information: Loxjie
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Schiit Audio
Founded in California, Schiit Audio has become a cult favorite for its no-nonsense approach to high-performance audio. Products like the Modi DAC, Magni headphone amp, and Vidar 2F amplifier deliver exceptional sound at wallet-friendly prices — with unapologetically tongue-in-cheek marketing.
Why They Matter
Schiit proves that great audio doesn’t need to be boring — or expensive. With U.S.-based manufacturing, modular designs, and serious engineering chops, Schiit has earned the trust of budget-conscious audiophiles who want performance, simplicity, and a bit of personality.
For more information: Schiit
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Dayton Audio
Dayton Audio, available largely through Parts Express, offers ultra-affordable speakers, subwoofers, and components like the DTA-2.1BT2 Class D amplifier and B65A bookshelf speakers. They focus on performance-first design for DIYers and budget builds.
Why They Matter
Dayton Audio democratizes hi-fi. Their products might not win style awards, but they’re engineered to deliver solid sound for pennies on the dollar. Whether you’re building your first stereo system or upgrading a garage rig, Dayton is where smart audiophiles look first.
For more information: Dayton Audio
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Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Austrian-based Pro-Ject is one of the world’s most respected turntable manufacturers. Their Debut EVO 2 and T1 turntables are beloved for combining audiophile-level performance with user-friendly design at attainable prices. Turntables only represent part of the deal — the manufacturer also offers an extensive range of phono pre-amplifiers, DACs, network streamers, and power amplifiers that will not break the bank and are highly underrated performers.
Why They Matter
Pro-Ject helped bring vinyl back into the mainstream by making high-quality turntables that don’t cost a fortune. They remain a go-to brand for analog lovers seeking great performance, long-term reliability, and timeless European design.
For more information: Pro-Ject USA
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Fluance
This Canadian brand has carved out a loyal following with its line of affordable turntables and speakers. The RT85N turntable and Signature Series bookshelf speakers offer high-end aesthetics and great sound at mid-tier prices.
Why They Matter
Fluance blends style and substance, giving vinyl newcomers and budget-conscious audiophiles access to premium-looking gear with a sound that holds up against much pricier alternatives. Their attention to detail and value makes them a rising star in the analog world.
For more information: Fluance
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Q Acoustics
UK-based Q Acoustics has earned a stellar reputation for their affordable speakers, including the award-winning 3000c Series speakers, 5000 Series and M40 wireless speakers. Known for their neutral tuning and wide soundstage, their speakers often outperform models twice the price.
Why They Matter
Q Acoustics strikes a rare balance between sonic precision and stylish design. They’ve become a go-to brand for anyone building a serious two-channel system on a budget, proving that refined British audio doesn’t have to come with a luxury tax.
For more information: Q Acoustics
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U-Turn Audio
Based in Massachusetts, U-Turn Audio is best known for the Orbit turntable, a minimalist, made-in-the-USA record player with audiophile aspirations and down-to-earth pricing. Their customizable options let users tailor features to their budget and needs.
Why They Matter
U-Turn has reinvigorated analog listening for a new generation. With a focus on simplicity, quality components, and direct-to-consumer pricing, they’ve made vinyl accessible again without sacrificing performance or craftsmanship. 120,000 sold turntables over the past decade makes them a real player in the category.
For more information: U-Turn Audio
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FiiO
FiiO has become a global favorite for portable audio. Whether it’s the BTR17 dongle DAC, K9 desktop DAC, or their expanding IEM lineup, FiiO consistently delivers feature-rich gear with impressive specs and surprisingly modest prices.
Why They Matter
FiiO helped usher in the dongle DAC and portable amp revolution. They’re proof that high-resolution digital audio doesn’t require heavy investment, and they continue to innovate in both mobile and desktop listening solutions.
For more information: FiiO
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JDS Labs
Illinois-based JDS Labs designs and manufactures ultra-clean DACs and headphone amplifiers like the Atom Amp+, Atom DAC+ and Element IV, known for their measurement-focused engineering and astonishing performance-to-price ratio.
Why They Matter
JDS Labs brings transparency — both sonic and ethical — to hi-fi. With open specs, honest marketing, and U.S.-based assembly, they’ve built a strong reputation among headphone enthusiasts and budget-conscious audiophiles who care about clarity and credibility.
For more information: JDS Labs
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WiiM Audio
WiiM has rapidly become a favorite in the streaming audio space thanks to products like the WiiM Ultra, WiiM Amp Pro, and WiiM Pro Plus. These compact network streamers and integrated amplifiers offer multi-room support, hi-res playback, voice control, and wide platform compatibility — all at wallet-friendly prices.
Why They Matter
WiiM is democratizing access to wireless hi-fi. By offering robust, AirPlay- and Chromecast-compatible streamers under $200, they’ve made it easier than ever for people to modernize legacy audio systems without losing fidelity.
For more information: WiiM
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RSL Speakers
Rogersound Labs (RSL) has quietly built a cult following originating from their early studio monitors, as well as with their more recent Speedwoofer line of subwoofers that routinely punch above its class. RSL designs all its speakers in California with a direct-to-consumer model that keeps prices low.
Why They Matter
RSL proves that great sound doesn’t require hype — just smart engineering and direct delivery. Their Compression Guide technology and obsessive tuning help them compete with much more expensive speakers, especially in home theater setups.
For more information: RSL Speakers
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SVS Sound
SVS is best known for its powerhouse subwoofers like the SB-1000 Pro, but the brand also offers well-regarded speakers and wireless solutions like the Prime Wireless Pro series. Every SVS product is engineered for deep impact, clarity, and versatility.
Why They Matter
SVS has redefined the performance ceiling for affordable home audio. Their subwoofers, in particular, have become the gold standard for budget-conscious bassheads — offering thunderous low-end without sacrificing control or precision.
For more information: SVS
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The Bottom Line
You don’t need to mortgage your house, sell your firstborn, or take out a loan from the Prince Regent to get great sound. The days of being fleeced by crusty audiophiles with bad dye jobs and even worse opinions are over. Today’s hi-fi revolution is powered by brands that actually know how to deliver high-quality audio without the pomp, circumstance, or $10,000 price tags attached to gear built to impress only other crusty audiophiles.
So whether you’re building your first system or upgrading without pawning your Tesla, these brands prove you can get seriously good sound without being taken for a royal ride. And the old guard? They can keep their $3,000 Ethernet cables—right next to their overpriced Scotch and their delusions of sonic grandeur. Wibble.
Related Reading
- Hit The One In The Middle: Convincing People to Spend $5,000 – $10,000 on A Stereo Will Change High-End Audio
- Does the Audiophile Community Have a Problem?
- Podcast: Why is Vintage Audio So Popular?
Anton Hellman
April 20, 2025 at 6:43 pm
Brilliant and don’t expect any invites to high-end brand parties after that well-deserved gutting.
Pity some of these brands will be negatively impacted by the tariffs because they offer some great products.
Schiit and Topping make great stuff.
Anton Darling
April 20, 2025 at 7:20 pm
I think you hit two things on the head that are very true.
“Marginal” improvements with each new model and the rather questionable pricing.
There is no reason for a turntable to cost $80,000 or even $20,000. Does the $20K table from VPI or Kuzma really blow away the $6K table from Kuzma, VPI, or Michell?
Marginal improvement for the price difference of an entire mid-tier system.
That’s a salary in some places.
I also agree that the anti-Chinese thing when it comes to equipment is dumb. HiFiMAN, Questyle, Topping, FiiO and Cayin make great products.
Black Adder references were spot on. Sock drawer line made me laugh.
Ian White
April 20, 2025 at 9:47 pm
I’ll stick with your turntable example for a second. VPI makes its parts in NJ and other parts of the U.S. — their arms are made here. The motors are sourced domestically. The plinths are made here. Aside from the carts like Ortofon or Grado that they might sell with their tables — they are a domestic manufacturer who can hold the line on prices. Well positioned to say the least. Kuzma (which makes a great product) makes their tables and arms in Slovenia. 10% tariff for now. Michell is made in the U.K. — all of them are premium brands and their customers are willing to pay more for quality. Having listened to almost all of their tables under $20K — the Gyrodeck SE and Kuzma Stabi R would be my picks if I didn’t have to worry about price.
I don’t think you have to spend more than $10K for a table/arm/cart to achieve end-game performance. It’s better than what 99% of the planet will ever get to experience.
I had a discussion with two very successful PR professionals last week who really know the industry — we all agree that 30-40% of the brands you read about will be gone within 5-7 years and more affordable gear will be the best place to exist.
IW
Ian White
April 20, 2025 at 9:41 pm
Not sure it was “brilliant” but I’ll take the win. I wasn’t getting invites prior to the piece so no loss.
The tariff thing is rather serious. Some brands like HoloAudio will not ship their most expensive DACs to the U.S. now and unless the distributor had inventory before the 145%…they’re not taking in anything new which makes sense.
I’m sure we’ll see increases with HiFiMAN, Topping, Questyle, and others rather soon.
Something that some people forget — brands like KEF, Audiolab, PSB, Bluesound, Wharfedale, Leak, Bowers and others…make everything in China. At least their more affordable products with smaller margins. Expect to see those go up once the distributors are out of product.
IW
glenn
April 21, 2025 at 11:08 am
When all the Baby boomers have all left this planet ,who will they sell all there overpriced products to .This generation is to inform .They know they can’t afford ridiculous prices and nor would they even want to .Companies that read the writing on the wall ,will be the ones to supply this generation with Audio products .
Anton
April 21, 2025 at 4:48 pm
1000% agree. And the culling will be very ugly.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 7:01 pm
There are always going to be high-end brands that make equipment for customers who have the financial means to buy them. That’s not the issue. Nobody gets shamed for having the money to afford ultra high-end products. Having listened to a lot of these products — my personal opinion is that some of them sound great, but that doesn’t mean I consider them to be great value for the money, and nor would I buy them even if I had the funds.
The real issue is that high-end audio will not survive another decade if there are not more brands that the next generation can afford. People listen differently today. They are mobile in a way that we (Gen X and the Boomers) never were with our audio. Yes, we had Sony Walkmans and AIWA CD players in our knapsacks in the 1980s, but the headphones sucked back then. So did the two formats. But it was our Head-Fi revolution. There is no comparison to the quality that exists today. Head-Fi is the gateway drug for the next generation and if that scares traditional high-end brands — too bad!
There are too many brands offering the same thing. The market will decide which live and which die. My money is on the brands that understand the changes in behaviour and appeal to this audience. And it doesn’t have to be entry-level.
IW
KHJ
April 21, 2025 at 2:18 pm
Geshelli needs a shout out for great dacs and electronics, made in FL.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 2:21 pm
KHJ,
I knew I forgot one — actually two. Andover and Geshelli. Will update this week. Thank you for reminding me.
IW
Anton
April 21, 2025 at 4:56 pm
Solid suggestion. Good prices and they show at CAF. Good family business.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 6:55 pm
Have only heard their products at CAF and rather briefly. Will see if we can review this summer. Too backed up until June.
IW
Lumas Simmons
April 21, 2025 at 2:48 pm
I’m surprised you didn’t’ include ELAC or Klipsch. They sort of started the resurgence of the current golden age of hifi. ELAC with the DEBUT B5 and B6 back in 2016 brought a level of sound that used to cost well over $1000 for under $500 to the masses. This sort of set off an arms race for all other speaker manufacturers. Klipsch I feel also joined the arms race and brought a lot of value to the market, especially once they figured out how to get their horns to mellow out around 2017-2018.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 3:05 pm
Lumas,
They were on my original list, but it needed a cut-off. ELAC for sure. I’m going to update the article with at least 3 more speaker brands, along with Andover Audio and Geshelli. The point of the article was to get the conversation going. I’m happy to see that people are engaged about the topic.
These are the brands that are going to shape the future of high-end audio. Not the companies making $50,000 turntables and $200K speakers. In the spirit of ‘Andor: Season 2″…we’re here. we’re right here, and we’re ready to fight for better and more affordable hi-fi.
Ian “Han” White
Anton Hellman
April 21, 2025 at 5:01 pm
ELAC and Andrew Jones started all of this. Pity Ken Kantor and NHT are not a thing anymore.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 6:54 pm
NHT was a great brand. Owned Super Zero bookshelf speakers and the matching subwoofers in 1995. The 3.3 were beasts that Corey Greenberg pushed very hard. Always liked the brand. Excellent value. Drove them with a wide range of rather expensive amplifiers back then. OCM by David Belles, YBA, Copland, and even tried some Bryston with it. Audio needs more brands like that.
ELAC had a good thing going with Andrew Jones. I get why he left to join MoFi but they have actually done a good job even with him gone.
IW
Asa
April 21, 2025 at 4:18 pm
Amen, and amen!
I own several of the brands above (CA, iFi and SVS)…also enjoy my Audioengine HD6s. There’s too many to list in the above, but I’ve also found Aperion Audio to be a solid option esp. in HT offerings.
Re: HFF, they’d gut their own grandmother for an extra hit of $$$. It’s in every industry I’ve ever worked in.
Ian White
April 21, 2025 at 8:09 pm
Asa,
By “HFF” — are you referring to a specific turntable manufacturer in the hinterland were it snows a lot?
IW
Asa
April 21, 2025 at 10:00 pm
Ian…hahahahahahahahaha…no. 🙂 Nice work!
Ian White
April 22, 2025 at 12:08 am
Asa,
Thank you. Can’t wait to focus on these brands.
Ian
David
April 23, 2025 at 2:14 am
Insightful stuff, Ian, and as usual, very well written.
I watched an interview with a representative of Fosi Audio recently. Paraphrasing their attitude in producing such low-priced, high-performing gear – they want everyone to be able to afford and experience real hi-fi sound. In other words, the low cost of their products is not necessarily a result solely based on their low production costs. It is their intention to produce quality gear at the lowest possible cost to the end user.
Though I do not own any Fosi gear, I was impressed.
David
Ian White
April 23, 2025 at 11:00 am
Thank you David. Greatly appreciate that.
I just hope the tariff meshugas doesn’t hurt a lot of these brands. Audio doesn’t have to be expensive. It just needs to be good. And we are lucky to have brands like Schiit, FiiO, Topping, WiiM, and Fosi at a time when brands like Goldmund are introducing $200K speakers and $280K amplifiers. It’s fine if that’s why you want to buy because it’s your money — but it doesn’t make anyone “young” think that any of this is attainable.
IW
Catherine Lugg
April 23, 2025 at 1:41 pm
Ian, thank you for compiling this detailed list. At this point in my life, I also like affordable, LIGHT, and “good enough.” Honestly, I’m increasingly a big fan of “gimp audio,” that is audio products that work for those of us who are physically disabled. Hence, hello Class D integrated amps and bookshelf speakers. I really do not want to mess with lots of cables with nerve damaged hands. Anyway, thanks!
Ian White
April 23, 2025 at 2:17 pm
Catherine,
Appreciate the continued readership and thoughtful commentary. I plan on adding a few more because they were on the original list but I had to shorten it for readability. As someone with a tremor in my right hand due to medication, I totally get it.
A greater focus on these brands and others are my thing going forward. Let others review $59,000 speakers that 9 people can afford.
IW
David
April 23, 2025 at 3:54 pm
“Gimp audio” – My experience is similar you yours, Catherine. I very much appreciate the lighter weight of most class d designs and stand mount speakers. I own a relatively light-weight slim line class AB Marantz AVR. One of my recent frustrations is seeing the VERY heavy, high-end class d designs now being offered by Marantz. I suppose they are attempting to cater to the “heavier weight = higher quality” crowd.
Ian White
April 23, 2025 at 4:03 pm
David,
Waiting for someone to trademark that. Leaving all “Pulp Fiction” humour at the door on this one. My Cambridge Edge A definitely makes my back twinge every time I need to move it. Which is why I don’t move it very often anymore. My Schiit Ragnarok 2 isn’t light either.
IW
3db
April 27, 2025 at 7:08 pm
I never bought into the magic pixie dust that the high priced audio equipment manufacturers were peddling. High priced gear is more about prestige than sound quality. That being said, how was this list comprised? Did advertising dollars factor into this list?
Ian White
April 27, 2025 at 7:26 pm
3dB,
It was comprised based on our experience with the brands, reader suggestions, and past reviews. We never told any of the brands that we were doing the article and very few are advertisers — so it basically played no part in the list. Some brands were actually angry that we didn’t include them so it’s not based on $$$ or favouritism. We think they offer a lot of great products that fit the criteria.
IW
Mark Silgalis
April 28, 2025 at 3:09 pm
Spot on. As a GenX audiophile since my college days at the close of the 20th century, I lusted after high-end gear. I also lusted after a Porsche 911 GT3. Neither avenue was a wise choice to purse. I’m not always chasing gear, sometimes I go years just enjoying what I have. I have a personal standard of sound and I have it now. My total system cost (including TV)? About $7500 over 8 years or so. And I just want to listen to it all day. Emotiva, Schiit, Heco, Fluance… They’re all in there. A Marantz NR1200 controls the system but my components are definitely bang for the buck. More power to you if you can afford D’Agostino amps and Wilson speakers… I’m sure it’s ne plus ultra gear. But really… How MUCH better is it than what I have?
Ian White
April 28, 2025 at 3:45 pm
Mark,
Amen to all of that. And what matters the most? That you enjoy the system that you have. The upgrade train is a dangerous one.
IW