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Berkhan – Senior Writer
This year has truly been an exciting journey for me, both in my personal life and at work! With an increase in responsibilities, 2024 has become one of my busiest years yet. Embracing these challenges, I remained dedicated to delivering outstanding content for Headfonia.
I’m thrilled to share that I published 40 articles this year, each crafted to inform and inspire our readers. While many products made an impression, only a select few have emerged as extraordinary winners.
Let’s take a moment to celebrate the highlights of this remarkable year in the audio world. Thank you for being a vital part of the Headfonia community! I eagerly look forward to exploring what’s next together!
Editor’s Choice:
Hifiman Mini Shangri-La
From the review:
The Mini Shangri-La system is a commendable achievement from Hifiman. It brings the high-end electrostatic sound experience into a more accessible price range. This is a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts who have always admired the pinnacle of electrostatic performance but found systems like the Hifiman Shangri-La Sr. or Sennheiser HE 1 out of reach. For “most mortals”, this setup provides a pathway into the elite realm of audio fidelity without the six-figure investment.
Full review:
Best Headphone:
Meze Audio 105 AER
From the review:
Meze Audio kept it simple: They utilized the fantastic design language and premium build, made the tuning appealing to most people, created an easy-to-drive headphone, and priced it competitively. There you have it. The 105 AER is a good option for casual listeners needing good, comfortable headphones. There is no need for complex desktop systems; just a DAP or maybe even a smartphone output, and you’re good to go.
Full review:
Best DAP:
HiBy R4
From the review:
I should congratulate Hiby for offering a complete DAP with many features at a minuscule price. 249$ is cheaper than some USB dongles today, and at that price, you get good output power, full Android support, bit-perfect playback with streaming, the Hiby Music app, and a premium, futuristic design. You can’t ask for more than that.
Full review:
Best Streamer:
FiiO R9
From the review:
The FiiO R9 stands out as a remarkable piece of audio equipment. Its versatility caters to every audiophile’s needs, and its adaptability ensures seamless integration into various scenarios, making it a versatile companion for any setup. Moreover, the user experience is highly satisfying, with well-thought-out software that boasts smooth performance and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or new to the hobby, the FiiO R9 offers a delightful user experience that enhances your enjoyment of music.
Full review:
Best DAC/AMP – High-End:
Dethonray Listening M1
From the review:
The Dethonray Listening M1 is a remarkable addition to the audiophile landscape, showcasing Anson’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With its versatility, robustness, and high-performance capabilities, the M1 delivers exceptional sound characterized by its natural, immersive, and technically proficient qualities. Its compact design further enhances its appeal. If you’re not willing to spend $3-5K on a desktop rig containing a full-size amp, you can save a lot of space.
Full review:
Best DAC/AMP – Best Value:
Hifiman EF499
From the review:
The Hifiman EF499 offers an impressive DAC/Amp solution for its $299 price point. It delivers quality R2R sound with versatile connectivity options. While it may not be the absolute best DAC on the market, it provides excellent value for those seeking a warm and natural sound signature.
Full review:
Best Amplifier – Portable:
Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2
From the review:
The Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2 portable amplifier is a high-end, refined entry into the portable audio market. Developed by Brise Audio, a brand already well-known for its top-quality cables, the Tsuranagi V2 exemplifies its commitment to sonic excellence. Originally created as a testbed for its cables, the Tsuranagi has evolved into a standalone masterpiece.
Full review:
Best IEM – No Limits:
PMG Audio Apx
From the review:
PMG Audio, spearheaded by industry veteran Piotr Granicki, has spared no expense in creating the Apx, pouring over a decade of expertise into its development. With a driver configuration comprising 11 drivers per side and a sophisticated 7-way crossover network, the Apx achieves a level of technical performance that is nothing short of breathtaking.
Full review:
Best IEM – Mid Range:
Lime Ears TERRA
From the review:
To me, Emil’s new Lime Ears Terra is a very successful creation. Its coherent and natural tuning is refined and refined. The IEM impresses from start to finish with its package, design, build quality, fit, and sound performance. In the upper-mid-range IEM market, the Terra is a serious option, especially for those who look for great coherency and mid-range timbre.
Full review:
Best IEM – Best Value:
Meze Audio Alba
From the review:
Meze Audio has struck a chord with the Alba in the entry-level market. It’s a breath of fresh air to encounter an affordable IEM that excels in build quality, accessories, and fit, especially in a segment dominated by Chi-Fi offerings.
The Alba impresses with its balanced, detailed, and clear audio reproduction. It handles various genres with clarity and resolution, showcasing solid technical performance alongside a smooth and well-balanced sound signature.
Full review:
Best Dongle :
iFi Audio Go Bar Kensei
From the review:
The iFi Audio GO Bar Kensei might be the most special dongle DAC on the market today. It combines fantastic design, robust build quality, features, and impressive sound performance. However, it comes with a steep price tag of $450, which might be too much for a dongle DAC. Despite the high cost, I still recommend it if you have the budget and are seeking the ultimate dongle DAC in terms of sound quality.
Full review:
Best Accessory:
PlusSound Double Copper
From the review:
Many cables are designed to excel in specific areas while often compromising in others, resulting in a trade-off. Traditional copper cables are recognized for their warmth and richness but may lack detailed retrieval. In contrast, the Dual Copper offers a different approach. It delivers a spacious and well-rounded sound presentation without congestion or excessive density.
Full review:
End Words
Congratulations to all of our winners! Your success is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what everyone achieves next year! If you have any questions or suggestions about our work, please post them in the comments section. We’re here to listen and want to make Headfonia.com even better for you in 2025!
Also, don’t forget to check out part two of our 2024 awards coming this Thursday—it includes the exciting Product of the Year Award! And next Sunday, we’ll reveal the winners of the “Reader Voted Best Gear” awards. The votes are open till Thursday evening CET.
Stay tuned!
