CES 2016

The only things I am sure about in the current and future state of high-end audio are: listening to and collecting LPs has only just begun, and, listening with super-quality headphones, desktop speakers and wireless speakers has also only just begun. By "begun" I mean each of these technologies will continue to evolve exponentially in terms of how good they will sound and how many people will be listening. I think a major Audio Renaissance has already begun and I believe that Dynaudio is one of the companies leading on the charge loudspeaker front.

Dynaudio's new Xeo 2 ($1599/pair) is proof of my claim. It is beautiful, it is powered (130Wpc), it is wireless, and though it comes in black or white finish, the Danish company showed an astounding array of colors and finishes at CES to gauge interest to see what might prove popular. Most importantly, it plays music more like a "wired" speaker than any "un-wired" loudspeaker I have ever heard—even at ten times its cost! (The Xeo 2 features a direct digital input, plus a set of RCA and mini analog inputs on one speaker and sends the signal wirelessly to the mate.)

Dynaudio's Michael Manousselis played Joy Division and it made sound that was tangibly happy and awake. There was a kind of glowing wideband precision I had never experienced with Bluetooth. With an optical connection from an Auralic Aries Mini server, Mike let Nico sing Sweet Jane until I was choked up and teary eyed. Leading the charge—with no wires attached.

Dynaudio also debuted two new Dynaudio Excite series models—the compact X18 ($1799/pair) and floor-standing X44 ($5499/pair). Both are available in satin white lacquer satin black lacquer, walnut or rosewood finish.