While the rest of the planet seemed to lose its collective mind in 2019, we’re pleased to report it was business as usual in the wonderful world of hi-fiengineering. It was impossible to ignore the existing giants of the industry, notably Rega, who consolidated their position as heavyweight champions with notable additions to the range such as the sublime Planar 10.
Elsewhere, other established big hitters such as Cambridge Audio, Monitor Audio and KEF again pushed the envelope, delivering top-level products at attainable price points – the latter continuing its fearless foray into the world of wireless. But it wasn’t all about the veterans this year, with AVID HiFi upping the stakes with their range of brilliantly engineered turntables and amps that challenge the status quo – and with the excellent entry-level Ingenium P&P deck, a genuine masterpiece from Conrad Mas and his team that we mere mortals can conceivably afford. True audiophile listening has never been more affordable than today. Other names, too, such as fast-emerging speaker brands Fyne Audio and Q Acoustics demonstrated that the new breed of British hi-ficompanies have plenty to offer.
So without further ado, on to the awards. Judging was tough before several sleepless nights and a heated pub debate resulted in the following roll of honour. Consider it your Christmas list to forward to Santa…