Audio products from NAD, Fell Audio, and KEF will undergo testing this month, featuring a vintage-style streaming amp, an affordable Hi-Fi set, and a speaker bundle respectively.
In the world of audio technology, 2025 has seen some exciting new releases that have caught the attention of audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike. Here's a roundup of some of the most notable products currently under review or recently launched.
The NAD C 3050 Integrated Amplifier, a blend of retro design and modern technology, has been highly praised for its warm, rich sound with good clarity. Reviewers appreciate its built-in phono preamp, competent DAC, Bluetooth, and HDMI eARC connectivity. Some minor issues noted include lack of detailed source indication on the display and limited remote control functionality. Despite these minor drawbacks, the C 3050 is considered a fantastic, versatile, and great-value integrated amp. In fact, it won the 2023 Product of the Year Award for combining preamp, power amp, phonostage, DAC, and room correction in one unit at a competitive price. Most users highlight its robust build quality and vintage aesthetic that still delivers modern performance.
Ruark Audio's MR1 Mk3, an updated version of the award-winning MR1 Mk2 desktop powered speakers, retains the original size and price (under £400). Improvements include a Class D amplifier, a new 8.5cm mid/bass driver, and added moving magnet phono stage and USB-C input. Known for good looks, engaging sound, and value, the MR1 Mk3 promises deeper bass, better control, and power for improved acoustic performance, marking a significant upgrade from previous generations.
Fell Audio, a newcomer in the hi-fi market, has introduced the Amp/Disc duo, a British-made amplifier and CD player aiming for affordable hi-fi with modern connectivity and good quality components. The Amp delivers 89 watts per channel Class D amplification, includes analogue/digital inputs, Bluetooth 5.0, and features an ESS Sabre DAC. The Disc CD player shares the same DAC and modern features with retro-inspired illuminated touch buttons. Reviews note the brand as promising newcomers challenging the current market with competitive pricing and build quality.
When it comes to TVs, the Panasonic Z95B and Samsung S95F are making waves. The Panasonic Z95B, using Primary RGB Tanden OLED technology, a LG Display technology, promises a 65-inch screen size and a multi-speaker Dolby Atmos system with up-firing drivers in a 5.1.2 arrangement. The Samsung S95F, on the other hand, uses a QD-OLED panel similar to the Sony Bravia 8 II and boasts a peak brightness of 2000 nits, making it Samsung's brightest OLED TV yet. The S95F also includes a new immersive format called Eclipsa Audio, developed in partnership with Google.
Detailed reviews and user feedback for the KEF Q Meta speaker package, which includes the Q4 Meta on-wall surrounds, Q6 Meta centre speaker, and Kube 12 MIE subwoofer, among others, are still pending. Similarly, no specific 2025 reviews have been found for the Panasonic Z95B and Samsung S95F TVs, and evaluations of the KEF Q Meta package are still pending.
Lastly, the Lindemann Limetree Phono II, a MM/MC phono stage priced at £650, is also under review.
As the annual awards judging period approaches, test rooms are being inundated with new products, promising an exciting year ahead for audio technology enthusiasts.
- The NAD C 3050 Integrated Amplifier, with its mix of vintage design and modern technology, has won the 2023 Product of the Year Award.
- The MR1 Mk3, an updated version of Ruark Audio's MR1 Mk2, delivers improved acoustic performance with deeper bass and better control.
- Fell Audio, a newcomer in the hi-fi market, offers the Amp/Disc duo, a combination of an amplifier and CD player with modern connectivity and quality components.
- The Panasonic Z95B and Samsung S95F TVs, both using advanced OLED technology, are receiving attention for their superior sound systems and video quality.
- The KEF Q Meta speaker package, which includes various speakers and a subwoofer, is currently under review by experts and users alike.
- The Lindemann Limetree Phono II, a new phono stage, is also under review, attracting interest from audiophiles.
- In the world of audio technology, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year with numerous new products under review and launch.
- The annual awards judging period is approaching, National Audiophile Design's C 3050 Integrated Amplifier being a strong contender.
- Many find the NAD C 3050 Integrated Amplifier a fantastic choice due to its versatile features, warm sound, and competitive price.
- Technology enthusiasts and audiophiles will be keeping a close eye on the outcome of this year's awards, as well as the upcoming releases in the realms of fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, gadgets, and travel.
