My local audio dealer told me that neither of the two stereo mags would be reporting from the Costa Mesa audio show, which I attended in June, which is formally called T.H.E. (Total HiFi Experience) Show SoCal, so I thought I would step in and give it a quick-and-dirty review from the perspective of regular Joe Audiophile rather than that of the polished, professional reporters Stereophile usually sends.

TEAC announced the PD-507T, a next-generation CD transport for its Reference 500 Series, positioned as a digital-only companion for external DACs, including TEAC’s UD-507. The company says it employs an in-house, high-quality CD mechanism and focuses on “pristine digital output” rather than onboard D/A conversion. Availability is slated for Q4 2025. MSRP: $1699 (USA), €1299 (EU), £1299 (UK).

Monarch Systems Ltd., B.audio’s distributor for the U.S. and Canada, announced an optional phono stage module from the French manufacturer. The add-in board adds a turntable input to select B.audio components.

Devialet has launched Phantom Ultimate, a two-model update to its spherical wireless speaker line introduced in 2015. The collection comprises the flagship Phantom Ultimate 108dB at $3800 and the Phantom Ultimate 98dB at $1900, in Light Pearl and Deep Forest finishes, plus an Opéra de Paris edition with 22-karat gold detailing. Devialet says the 98dB is available now; the 108dB is open for preorders through Devialet stores, premium dealers, and online.

Shostakovich: Complete String Quartets Vol. 2 | Nos. 6–12
Cuarteto Casals
Harmonia Mundi HMU 902733.34. 2 CD (reviewed as 24/96). 2025. Alban Moraud, Alexandra Evrard, prod. and eng.
Performance *****
Sonics ****½

Denon, Marantz, and Classé announced today that the HEOS wireless audio platform will adopt a new identity, transitioning from "HEOS Built-in" to "Powered by HEOS." The rebranding accompanies a redesigned app interface and expanded platform capabilities, marking a decade since the platform's 2014 launch.