Mark Henninger

Integrated Amp Reviews
ARCAM SA45 Streaming Integrated Amplifier: Two‑Channel, Simplified
Mark Henninger  |  Oct 26, 2025

Audio Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $4,999

AT A GLANCE
Plus
180Wpc class-G power with real headroom
Full-stack streaming: AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify/Tidal/Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready
HDMI eARC for seamless TV audio
Dirac Live full bandwidth with dual sub outs including XLR
8.8" color display and clear, simple ergonomics
Minus
Non-touch display
Premium price

THE VERDICT
Arcam’s SA45 is a modern two‑channel integrated amplifier that replaces a rack of separates. It streams natively, corrects the room with Dirac Live, talks to your TV over eARC, and has the power to drive serious speakers. A couple of software hiccups aside, it made high-quality living‑room hi‑fi easy.

This integrated amplifier is the right answer when you want power, fidelity, and simplicity in the same box. The SA45 does streamer, DAC, preamp, and power amp duty without the old-school AVR-style menu gymnastics. I used it as a pure two-channel solution for music and movies, in a real living room. I streamed everything. No discs. My apologies to physical media fans, but at this point the quality of streaming is just plain good enough for my needs.

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Headphone Reviews
Focal Bathys MG Luxury Wireless ANC Headphones Review
Mark Henninger  |  Oct 19, 2025

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Build Quality
Value
PRICE $1,499

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Luxurious
Stylish
Exceptional fidelity
Comfortable
Minus
Expensive
No true passive mode

THE VERDICT
The Bathys MG evolves Focal’s bathys wireless ANC headphones with new magnesium drivers and updated electronics. The result is a traveler‑friendly, full‑size over‑ear that prioritizes fidelity and comfort without giving up everyday usability. If you valued the original Bathys for sound and build, MG doubles down on those same strengths.

Focal’s Bathys MG targets listeners who refuse to trade hi‑fi for convenience. It keeps the distinctive Bathys silhouette and premium materials but swaps in 40mm magnesium M‑shaped drivers and refreshed electronics, aiming to elevate detail, control, and stage while retaining reliable ANC and app control.

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New Products
Sennheiser Targets Portable Audio Enthusiasts With HDB 630 Wireless Headphones
Mark Henninger  |  Oct 10, 2025
Sennheiser has announced the HDB 630, closed-back wireless headphones designed to deliver what the company calls "audiophile sound wherever you are." Announced October 8, the HDB 630 shares its chassis with the MOMENTUM 4 but features a custom acoustic system built around a 42mm dynamic transducer manufactured at Sennheiser's Tullamore, Ireland facility.
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New Products
PSB’s SubSeries BP7: Compact Cabinet, Controlled Bass
Mark Henninger  |  Oct 09, 2025
PSB Speakers has launched the SubSeries BP7 powered subwoofer, a compact sealed model with a bipolar driver array and a 350-watt universal class-D (UCD) amplifier. Pricing is $1,199 USD (tariff adjusted) and $1,399 CAD.
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New Products
TEAC Adds PD‑507T CD Transport to Reference 500 Line
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 23, 2025
TEAC has announced the PD-507T, a CD transport for its Reference 500 Series, designed to feed external DACs via coaxial or optical output. U.S. MSRP is $1,699.99, with EU and UK pricing at €1,299 and £1,299. Availability is slated for Q4 2025 on TEACUSA.com and through select dealers.
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Audio Video News
HARMAN Closes Sound United Deal
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 23, 2025
HARMAN says it has closed its acquisition of Sound United, adding Denon, Marantz, Bowers & Wilkins, and more to its Lifestyle Division. Sound United will operate as a standalone strategic business unit (SBU) inside HARMAN.

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Audio Video News
UK Hi‑Fi Show Live Heads to Ascot This Weekend
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 21, 2025
The UK Hi‑Fi Show Live returns this weekend to England’s Ascot Racecourse, a high‑end‑focused event that trades the usual hotel hallways for a unique venue.
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New Products
Devialet Launches Phantom Ultimate Wireless Speakers
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 18, 2025
Devialet has introduced Phantom Ultimate, the latest generation of its compact, spherical wireless speakers. The line consists of the flagship Phantom Ultimate 108 dB ($3,800) and the smaller Phantom Ultimate 98 dB ($1,900). Both are offered in Light Pearl and Deep Forest finishes; an Opéra de Paris edition adds hand-applied 22-carat gold accents at $4,300 (108 dB) and $2,400 (98 dB). Devialet says the 98 dB model is available now, while the 108 dB is open for pre-orders via Devialet stores, premium dealers, and online.
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Audio Video News
Denon, Marantz, and Classé rebrand HEOS as “Powered by HEOS”
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 17, 2025
HEOS, the multiroom audio platform used by Denon, Marantz, and Classé, is being rebranded as “Powered by HEOS.” According to the companies, the new identity aligns with updates to the HEOS app and clarifies that HEOS is an embedded platform technology rather than a stand-alone product line.
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New Products
Apple's New AirPods Pro 3: Quieter Sonic Canvas, Smarter Tricks
Mark Henninger  |  Sep 15, 2025
I was in Cupertino for Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 reveal, brought a pair home, and did some early listening away from campus. The pitch lines up with what I’m hearing so far: a quieter backdrop and firmer low end. Apple’s explanation is straightforward. The buds use a new multiport acoustic architecture that controls airflow into the ear canal, paired with foam‑infused ear tips (now five sizes, including XXS) to improve the passive seal.
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