Welcome
Welcome to this September Newsletter, which is your summary of the latest news and reviews from Hifi and Music Source from August 2025, and we look forward to the Autumn period. This month features a world-first review, some exciting new products, and a look at what’s to come.
Headlining the News: World-First Audiolab 9000 Series Review
This month, Hifi and Music Source published the first Global review of the complete Audiolab 9000 Series. This flagship range includes the new 9000Q pre-amplifier, 9000P power amplifier, 9000N streamer, and 9000CDT CD transport.
New Reviews
QUAD 33 and 303
Also, this month, a diverse range of products has been put through their paces:
Ian Ringstead examined a modern take on the classic Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier. The rejuvenated models offer a contemporary twist with high-quality components and improved connectivity, while retaining the DNA of the originals.
He said;
QUAD have hit the bullseye for me.
Unitra WSH-605 integrated amplifier
John Pickford has had a UK first review of the Unitra WSH-605 integrated amplifier
He concluded that;
There is a purity to its character that blesses the amp with a crystalline quality
Arendal 1723 Monitor THX loudspeakers
This Editor has just reviewed the Arendal 1723 Monitor THX loudspeakers. These loudspeakers are primarily distributed online, making their price point particularly attractive. I concluded;
…these loudspeakers crackle and punch with the best of them, many at higher price points…
iFi Audio Valkyrie, a flagship portable DAC with DSD Remastering
We have also reviewed the iFi Audio Valkyrie, a flagship portable DAC with DSD Remastering (August 19). In the review, we thought;
…the Hugo 2 has met its match in my view with the features on offer, the USB-C input and the competitive clean and resolving sound
Hana SL Mk 2 Moving Coil Cartridge
Ian has also reviewed the Hana SL Mk 2 Moving Coil Cartridge (August 14) this month. He commented;
(The Hana SL Mk2 moving coil cartridge)… has a natural tonal balance — neither too bright nor too dark, offering a realistic and immersive presentation
Coming Up
Look out for these reviews in the coming weeks. We will have an exclusive review of the bookshelf loudspeakers from Polish newcomer, Unitra. There will also be a review of a stereo pair of REL T/9x SE subwoofers in a striking Lamborghini orange finish. Ian will be reporting back on the new Moor Amps 4i integrated amplifier, and I look forward to receiving the new flagship Acoustic Energy 320s. I’m especially happy about this as I was expecting them to be the new 309.2s that we saw at Bristol earlier this year.
New Music
There’s always time for new music, and this month, Sabrina Carpenter’s latest album, Man’s Best Friend, is causing a stir in this household. We have also enjoyed Radiohead’s Live Recordings of Hail to the Thief this month, and Laufey’s new album, A Matter of Time
Further Reading
