Audio Video News

Yamaha MusicCast WX-030 Wireless Speaker: $250

At nearly 10 inches wide and 4.5 inches deep, the WX-030 is solidly built and larger than the seven compact speakers we rounded up for our group test. Setup was a bit challenging but patience was rewarded with a large, believable soundstage, robust bass, and impressive volume capability. The speaker supports AirPlay and Bluetooth streaming but provides access to only four streaming services: Spotify, Pandora, SiriusXM, and Rhapsody.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Powerful sound
Intuitive, graphic app
Minus
Setup not totally intuitive
Slim music-service selection

Full Review Here

Bluesound Pulse Flex Wireless Speaker: $299

Made by the audio wizards behind the venerable PSB and NAD brands, the Bluesound ecosystem of speakers and associated electronics is aimed squarely at audiophiles who are ready to go wireless. In addition to Wi-Fi, the Pulse Flex supports aptX Bluetooth, Hi-Res streaming, and offers wired LAN connectivity, a USB port, and a Toslink digital/3.5mm mini analog input. Streaming services include Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and Slacker.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Great sound, especially in stereo
Plays Hi-Res audio
Good connectivity
Minus
Limited bass

Full Review Here

 

Paradigm Premium Wireless Multiroom Audio System: $1,897 (as reviewed)

Paradigm has assembled a stellar collection of components capable of delivering rich sound wherever you put a speaker—either an elongated PW 800 or a compact PW 600. And we do mean, wherever you put the speaker. Onboard Anthem Room Correction (ARC) does a remarkable job of "fixing" the sound of speakers that wind up in less-than-ideal locations. Limited streaming options and limitations of the Play-Fi platform are the only things that hold back this beautifully designed system.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Excellent build and sound quality
192-kHz/24-bit support over Ethernet
Anthem Room Correction with included mic
Minus
Limited number of streaming services
Single orientation for PW speakers
Components can’t be powered on via the app
Play-Fi control and proximity limitations

Full Review Here

 

Beyerdynamic T1 Headphone: $1,099

Headphone specialist Beyerdynamic has done a wonderful job remaking its flagship T1 headphone. Apart from a physical redesign that includes user-replaceable cables and a new aluminum driver housing, the T1 sounds meatier and more refined than its predecessor. As reviewer Steve Guttenberg put it, “The engineer’s made all the right choices and in nearly every way made the T1 better than the original.”

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Concise, clear sound
Five-year warranty
Minus
High-impedance design limits portable use

Full Review Here