audioXpress January 2025. Innovations in Audio. Product Development. The Best in DIY Audio

In this issue we write about some of the most innovative Drivers and Transducers from the past two years. Read about dual-driver true wireless earbuds, and how to assess listening effort inside vehicles. Douglas Self shares his latest findings on Modern Op-Amp Distortion Tests, and René Christensen explores the analytical framework that sustains great simulation techniques. Reviews of the APL Virtuoso v2 Binaural Renderer, and the Purifi 1ET9040BA amplifier module.

Manger Audio, the specialized speaker manufacturer from Mellrichstadt, Germany, announced the sixth generation of its globally recognized star-shaped transducer, the W06. The Manger driver works on the principle of bending waves, featuring a flat, flexible diaphragm, and unique coil assembly. In its six major redesign, the Manger W06 transducer now features an optimized motor, new damping system, and a new chassis design, delivering improved linearity, lower distortion, and even more impressive dynamics.

The 2018 High End show promised to be the best one ever, in part because of the most pleasant weather conditions experienced in Munich - almost summer like - turning the Bavarian region into a tourist postcard and making any outing a true pleasure and the entire experience of beer and German food even more enjoyable, particularly in the fantastic nearby Englischer Garten esplanades and restaurants.