Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Compact and robust design, built from a solid block of aluminum giving it a premium feel
- Sound is generally well-regarded, with descriptions including natural, mature, and detailed presentation
- User-friendly with simple controls and a clean display
- Comes with a well-built, rechargeable remote control
- Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD provides good quality wireless connectivity
Product Considerations
- Lacks preamp functionality, so there is no volume control
- Uses a 4.4mm balanced output, which may require purchasing a dedicated cable or adapter to XLR
- Some reviewers found the power cord to be a bit short
- It does not retain the last input selected before being turned off
- Soundstage is a bit flat, which is common for Delta Sigma DACs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Schiit Bifrost 2: Bifrost 2 is easier to listen to, it's not soft or mushy or anything like that, but one was able to relax more as listening to it
Takeaway: The EarMen Tradutto is a compact and well-built DAC that delivers a high-quality, natural sound. Its ease of use, Bluetooth connectivity, and robust construction make it a great choice for those seeking a simple, yet capable DAC for their desktop or home audio system.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Tradutto
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Inputs: Bluetooth 5.1 (AAC,SBC, aptx, aptx HD, aptx LL), USB, TOS Link S/PDIF optical, COAX S/PDIF
- RCA output impedance: 300Ω
- Balanced 4.4mm output impedance: 600Ω
- Audio Formats: PCM up to 768 kHz, DSD DoP64/128/256/native DSD512, DXD up to 768 kHz
- Single-end output THD+N: 0.0003%
- Single-end output SNR: >116dB A-Weighted
- Balanced output level: 4Vrms 0dBFS
- Balanced output SNR: >120dB A-Weighted
- Dimensions (LxHxW): 150x30x150 mm (5.9"x1.18"x5.9")
- Weight: 550 gr (1.21lbs)
Description
Discover the new pinnacle of audio performance with EarMen Tradutto, a sophisticated DAC designed to enhance the sonic capabilities of your system. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this piece-of-art device delivers unrivaled sound quality and an array of cutting-edge features.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- EarMen offers products built with a strong emphasis on durability, utilizing CNC-milled aluminum chassis in compact designs for robust protection and a premium feel.
- The brand offers fully balanced designs, ensuring signal integrity from source to output, and utilizes the topology even on single-ended signals for enhanced clarity.
- They produce versatile components, often including pre-amp functionality and multiple input/output options, and catering to both desktop and portable usage scenarios.
Select products
Select product comparisons
earmen-donald-dac
- Positioning: A dedicated digital-to-analog converter designed for straightforward digital audio conversion.
- Description: Offers precise digital processing with low jitter, making it suitable for users who prioritize clarity in small room setups. Compared to the integrated amplifier models, its single-purpose design keeps costs lower and the focus on digital performance sharper.
earmen-st-amp
- Positioning: An integrated preamplifier and power amplifier built for balanced performance in a compact design.
- Description: Presents robust, straightforward analog amplification with a simplified circuit that stands out next to the single-function DAC.
earmen-tr-amp
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier featuring a refined output stage aimed at enhanced dynamics and lower distortion.
- Description: Uses improved analog circuitry to deliver higher headroom and cleaner sound compared to the ST Amp.
earmen-tradutto
- Positioning: A specialized unit that combines transport and digital-to-analog conversion for high-fidelity playback.
- Description: Features a distinct transport mechanism with enhanced clocking circuitry that provides smoother digital processing than the simpler DAC or amplifier products. Compared with the ST Amp and TR Amp, its dual functionality targets buyers who need synchronized digital source processing and a step up in build quality.
earmen-colibri
- Positioning: The high-end flagship system engineered for top-tier audio performance and versatility in premium setups.
- Description: Features the most advanced analog and digital circuitry in the lineup, offering refined sound staging that surpasses the other products. When compared to all previous models, its extensive feature integration and superior build quality provide comprehensive system control.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
160
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
7
Founding Year
2018
Our take on the brand
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
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EarMen
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What if you spend more?
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EverSolo
DMP-A6
769
769
/
25
Reviews
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent and responsive touchscreen display, and user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate
- Versatile as an all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and media storage server with a competitive price point
- High build quality, featuring a solid aluminum alloy chassis
- Supports a wide variety of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more
- Rock solid as a streamer, especially when going into a separate DAC
Product Considerations
- Customer support from Eversolo may be limited, with some reviewers noting slow or nonexistent responses to inquiries
- Internal DAC, while good, is not on par with higher-end—more expensive DACs
- Lack of a traditional I/R remote could be a drawback for some users
- Some unusual control procedures are noted, such as the inability to power on the unit from the mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DMP-A6 sounds just as good as the Lumin U2 Mini as a streamer
- The A6 beats the Bluesound Node when used only as a streamer
- The A6 has similar features, a similar control/display, and a similar size and shape
- The Lumin U2 has more "shine", dynamics, solidity and is a touch more refined than the A6
- The Eversolo is favored over the iFi Neo Stream, especially as a streaming DAC
- Eversolo proves it can play with Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) in many ways
Takeaway: The Eversolo DMP-A6 is a versatile and user-friendly streamer that delivers great value, and it provides a great streaming experience with its screen. It is a great entry point into high-resolution digital audio and can serve as the center of a modern hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
NEO iDSD 2
899
899
/
20
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- The NEO iDSD 2 functions as a versatile all-in-one (AIO) solution, working as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier
- It has a significantly more powerful amplifier section than its predecessor, making it better at driving a wider range of headphones
- Includes sound-shaping features such as XBass and XSpace, plus selectable digital filters, allowing users to customize the sound
- Comprehensive connectivity options include USB, S/PDIF (coaxial/optical), Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- The amplifier section may not be powerful enough to drive some very power-hungry headphones to their full potential
- The Nexis app only works with a 2.4ghz WiFi signal
- There is a slight click or noise when switching inputs as a pre-amp
- Some reviewers would have preferred the inclusion of the iPower X power adapter instead of the iPower V2, considering the unit's price
- The variable volume output may not save the last used settings
Takeaway: The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 2 combines a high-quality DAC with a significantly improved headphone amplifier, making it a good all-in-one solution for desktop audio. With its wide range of features, solid build quality, and pleasing sound, the NEO iDSD 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
Matrix Audio
Mini-i 4
649
649
/
16
Reviews
The all-new music streamer mini-i 4 does not only have a rich set of digital inputs with excellent digital audio processing capabilities, but also supports various network streaming protocols. Combined with a self-developed high-quality digital audio/streaming playback system MA Player and the controller app MA Remote App, it easily plays a vast amount of online streaming music, provides you with an exceptional high-fidelity listening experience.
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent sonic performance, characterized by neutrality, transparency, and detail retrieval
- The MA Remote app is intuitive and feature-rich, offering access to various streaming services and settings
- Solid build quality with an aluminum chassis, though the sides are plastic, and a bright, clear LCD screen
- Versatile connectivity with a wide array of inputs, including USB-C for external storage, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks wireless connectivity—no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Does not come with a physical remote, the RM5 is sold separately
- Some users have experienced issues with navigating large local music libraries
- Some reviews mention the touch screen controls being a bit fiddly
- No digital output to support an external DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node (2021): Mini-i 4 has better detail retrieval and is cleaner sounding
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: DMP-A6 sounds more natural with bolder bass and better soundstaging, while Mini-i 4 sounds tonally and spatially flatter
- Vs Matrix Audio Mini-i 3 Pro: Mini-i 4 has a wider range of source repositories and USB storage reader
Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i 4 is a great sounding device for anyone wanting a DAC and streamer that can do it all. With its comprehensive set of features and focus on audio quality, enjoying music becomes easy.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Product Page
Product Page
EverSolo
DAC-Z8
699
699
/
15
Reviews
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality, with a premium feel thanks to the aluminum chassis and attention to detail
- Clean, crisp, and clear sound, with a neutral presentation that resolves detail well
- Well-implemented headphone amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones, and the headphone level reverts to the last used
- Bright and crisp LCD screen with VU meters adding to its visual appeal
- Versatile connectivity with USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks HDMI ARC input, which would be useful for hybrid setups
- Some reviewers find the treble a little aggressive and fatiguing with certain recordings or speakers
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, meaning a computer or other network streaming device is needed
- No dedicated subwoofer output
- Not a tone control, those looking for a colored or editorialized sound should look elsewhere
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Z8 has a more nuanced presentation and better separation than the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M
- The Z8 is smoother with a darker background on the headphone output, but the SMSL M500 MKII is warmer and fuller sounding on the line outputs
- The Z8 has a cleaner sound, darker background, and deeper soundstage on the line-outs than the Topping DX5, but the DX5 has more powerful headphone amplification
- Java Hi-Fi gives a slightly cleaner presentation with more authority in the bass than the Z8
Takeaway: The Eversolo DAC-Z8 is a well-built and versatile DAC that delivers a clean and detailed sound. It is a great option for users looking for a high-quality DAC with a range of features, including a headphone amplifier and preamp capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
EarMen
Colibri
149
/
Released
2022
Everything you desired and everything you needed is now within reach. EarMen is setting new standards by introducing a specially designed, battery-powered, and fully balanced device that delivers a unique and unforgettable audio experience. Despite its compact size, the EarMen Colibri packs a powerful punch, redefining your music enjoyment.
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced 4.4mm output and a 3.5mm single-ended output
- Battery-powered, providing ultra-clean and stable DC current, avoiding noise-inducing RFI/EMI pollution and not draining the sound source battery
- Excellent build quality, often made from a CNC milled aluminum block with glass surfaces for durability and a premium look
- Neutral and transparent sound signature
- Has hardware controls
- Dead silent without EMI interference
Product Considerations
- Battery life is around 5 hours
- The size is larger than most dongle DACs due to the internal battery
- Stock USB cable may be too long and stiff for portable use
- Bass boost can muddy details
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to EarMen Sparrow, the Colibri has enhanced overall performance due to the internal battery, providing cleaner power, wider soundstage, and deeper detail retrieval, although both use the same DAC chip (ES9281 Pro)
- Compared to Cayin RU6, the Colibri has a slight edge in spacing as a result of less aliasing and its lower noise floor
- Compared to AudioQuest Dragonfly, the Colibri is a major step up
Takeaway: The EarMen Colibri offers high-fidelity sound in a portable package, making it a great choice for audiophiles on the go because it delivers clean, powerful audio without draining a device's battery, allowing for extended listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO bar
329
/
Released
2022
The GO bar may be the size of a USB stick, but with powerful sound customisation and 10x the output power of your iPhone, it's your portable audio powerhouse - ready for any adventure.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Comprehensive specifications, aiming to equal or improve upon existing portable DACs
- Features a balanced 4.4mm output and a single-ended 3.5mm headphone output
- High power output, described as the most powerful headphone amp of its size
- Includes XBass+ and XSpace analog processing for sound enhancement
- Supports PCM up to 384kHz, DSD up to 256, and DXD
Product Considerations
- The blue text on the blue chassis is hard to read in almost any lighting condition
- Can be considered chunky compared to other dongle DACs
- Can be noisy and produce audible hiss with sensitive IEMs, though IEMatch can help mitigate this
- High power consumption potentially impacts battery life of the source device
- The digital filters can be tricky to access, according to one review
Takeaway: The iFi Audio GO bar is a powerful and versatile portable DAC/amp that can drive most headphones, providing a clean and detailed sound. It is packed with features and offers good sound quality, making it a great option for enjoying high-resolution music on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Cambridge Audio
DacMagic 200M
399
/
Released
2021
Digital audio files can be packed with incredible musical detail, but they need to be converted to analogue first for you to hear it. And how good it sounds will depend on how well the digital audio from your computer, network player or CD is converted. DacMagic 200M's twin ESS DACs decrease crosstalk and improve separation because there's a DAC dedicated to both left and right channels. These fully balanced, optimised, and efficient signal paths reveal previously hidden glittering musical prizes.
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Rich feature set is its ace card
- Presents a very clean, detailed, and dynamically punchy sound
- Tonal smoothness and expansive soundstage
- Balanced and unbalanced outputs, plus a headphone output
Product Considerations
- Front fascia is a wee bit cluttered
- Lacklustre feel of the volume control
- No remote control
- The headphone output is a useful convenience feature, but it doesn't live up to the unit's performance in other areas
- Auto-shut-off feature turns it off after a little while of not being used
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Chord Mojo: Chord edges ahead in performance, delivering even greater subtlety and rhythmic precision, but it can't match the DacMagic 200M's impressive feature versatility
- Vs Schiit Bifrost: Bifrost offers more meat on music's bones, making the DacMagic 200M sound comparatively lighter weight, presenting a skinnier version of the music at hand
- Vs Denafrips ARES II: The DacMagic 200M sounds pale as it does its best to tease out music's kaleidoscope of tone colors
- Vs Audiolab M-DAC+: Rhythmically the DacMagic 200 does a good enough job, it can't compete with the next tier up of DACs costing close to twice its price
- Vs Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital: The sound of the Pro-Ject DAC was not as different from that of the DacMagic
Takeaway: The DacMagic 200M is a feature-rich device with good sound, offering balanced and unbalanced outputs, plus a headphone output. Its versatile feature set makes it a great all-rounder at its price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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iFi
GO bar Kensei
449
/
Released
2024
Forged for masters of audio. Like a true Kensei, this GO bar is a skilful master of power and performance. Adorned with K2HD Technology and crafted from Japanese stainless steel, the Kensei represents the pinnacle of our refinement in the GO bar range.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed, organized, and spacious sound.
- Strong output power for a dongle.
- Premium build quality with tactile Japanese stainless steel.
- Feature-rich with exclusive sound-tuning options, like K2HD processing, XBass, XSpace, and digital filters.
- Improved clocking and circuitry contribute to less background noise, no jitter, and increased audio quality.
Product Considerations
- Treble can sound rather relentless—overstated, hard-edged, and thin.
- The device can get quite warm during use.
- High power draw can drain a mobile phone battery quickly.
- Stainless steel exterior is prone to collecting fingerprints and scratches.
- Controls can be difficult to understand at first, necessitating the manual.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Kensei offers slight improvements in clarity and bass accuracy compared to the original GO Bar, with less warmth in the lower mids.
Takeaway: The iFi GO Bar Kensei is a premium, well-built portable DAC/amp that delivers a detailed and powerful sound experience. It's packed with features and offers a noticeable upgrade for those serious about high-quality mobile hifi listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN DAC 3
229
/
Released
2024
Amid the rush of everyday life, the ZEN DAC 3 is your escape to pure harmony. This multi award-winning desktop DAC delivers high-end, Hi-Fi performance to your headphones and speakers - all in a simple, plug-and-play design.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers clean, musical, and entertaining sound
- Features a new USB-C input
- Good build quality and aesthetic design
- Includes XBass+ for bass enhancement
- Simple to set up and use
Product Considerations
- Audible noise floor reported, especially with sensitive IEMs
- May not have enough power for demanding planar headphones
- Simultaneous output to all connected devices may require manual switching
- XBass+ may be too much for some users or cause distortion at higher volumes
- Some reviewers feel the power output is a downgrade from previous models
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- ZEN DAC 3 has more practical outputs for desktop use, but Go Bar has lower noise floor and is more portable
- ZEN DAC 3 is more colorful, dynamic, and crisp, while C200 sounds flatter
- Similar vivid sound, but ZEN DAC 3 has warmer, punchier bass
- ZEN DAC 3 sounds warmer and punchier, while X5 creates a wider soundstage
- DX3 Pro+ offers more power and a more neutral sound, while ZEN DAC 3 offers a more musical sound signature
Takeaway: The iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a stylish and easy-to-use DAC/AMP that delivers a musical and engaging sound, making it a good all-around choice for desktop audio. It offers a lot of features for the price, like balanced outputs and XBass+, so listeners can enjoy music with great sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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