Aequo Audio, founded in the Netherlands about 11 years ago, will be unveiling its new speaker, the Ensium, for the first time in the world at the High End Show in Munich.
Ensium is the result of 10 years of intensive research, and has challenged the limits of acoustic engineering. It uses a unique nanotech enclosure material that converts vibrations from 1Hz to 100,000Hz into heat, among other technologies.
Divestiture Supports Masimo’s Focus on Core Professional Healthcare Business and Delivering Market Leading Innovation
IRVINE, Calif.—May 6, 2025—Masimo Corporation (Nasdaq: MASI), a leading global medical innovator, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Sound United consumer audio business to HARMAN International (“HARMAN”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., for an aggregate purchase price of $350 million in cash, subject to certain adjustments. The sale follows the previously announced review of Masimo’s consumer audio business and will support the Company’s strategic focus on driving innovation in its core professional healthcare segment. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025, subject to receiving necessary regulatory approvals.
Quentin Koffey, Vice Chairman of Masimo’s Board of Directors, stated, “Finding the right home for this business has been a stated priority of the new Board from day one, and this transaction represents an important milestone as we continue to position the Company to achieve our goals of accelerating revenue growth while delivering disciplined margins. Masimo has tremendous opportunities ahead and we are confident we have the right healthcare-focused strategy, experienced leadership team and culture of innovation in place to build on our significant positive momentum.”
Dave Rogers, President of HARMAN’s Lifestyle division, said, “This acquisition represents a strategic step forward in the expansion of HARMAN’s core audio business and footprint across key product categories such as Home Audio, Headphones, Hi-fi components, and Car Audio. It complements our existing strengths and opens new avenues for growth. Sound United’s portfolio of world-class audio brands including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon and Marantz, will join HARMAN’s iconic family of brands, including JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, Mark Levinson, Arcam, and Revel. Built on a shared legacy of innovation and excellence in audio technology, this combined family of brands, together with the talented employees of both companies, will deliver complementary audio products, strengthen our value proposition and offer more choices to consumers.”
Katie Szyman, Chief Executive Officer of Masimo, said, “Since I took over as CEO, a key objective has been refocusing our business to ensure we are allocating time and resources to areas of unmet clinical need and driving growth and operational efficiencies. This transaction aligns with these objectives. Our consumer audio business and its talented team will be well positioned for growth and success under HARMAN’s leadership.”
The transaction is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain closing conditions, including the receipt of any required regulatory approvals.
Centerview Partners LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC served as financial advisors to Masimo and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP served as legal advisor to Masimo in connection with the transaction.
Sphinx Audio Engineering is builton the legacy of Siltech® andCrystal Cable®, combiningdecades of high-end audioinnovation with modern vision. Originally established in the1980s, Sphinx earnedrecognition for its refinedelectronics, amplifiers, andspeaker designs that seamlesslyfused engineering precision withmusical expression. Today, Sphinx has beenreimagined by the same mindsbehind iconic products like theSymphony and GlassArabesque, and continues topursue uncompromised sonicperformance. Every product is born from adeep passion for music and acommitment to purity in sound,crafted to reveal the fullemotional and technical depthof every recording.
Engineered for precision and musical truth, shaped by decades of high-end audio expertise.
Engineering That Listens to the Music
Every part of the Element 3 is designed to serve the sound. Its Zero Gravity™ Bass architecture minimizes distortion and air compression while enhancing room integration. The sculptural cabinet, shaped like a harp, is more than aesthetic — it’s acoustic performance made visible.
From the solid Silver-Gold internal wiring to the PAC™ crossover network, Element 3 draws on Sphinx’s rich heritage. Custom tuning switches on the back allow you to optimize bass output for your room or personal preference. This 3-way system ensures phase-perfect reproduction and effortless musical detail — at any volume.
Engineering the Element 3
– Acoustic Performance Without Compromise
From internal architecture to crossover networks, every design choice in the Element 3 serves a singular goal: musical truth.
Zero Gravity™ Bass Architecture
Our newly developed Zero Gravity™ Bass minimizes distortion and air compression while maximizing room integration. This results in cleaner low-frequency performance, deeper extension, and a seamless blend with the midrange.
Sculptural Cabinet Design
Inspired by the silhouette of a harp, the cabinet blends form and function. The stone-like exterior dampens resonance naturally, while the curved aluminum base ensures both stability and heat dissipation. The elegant form integrates effortlessly into high-end interiors.
PAC™ Hybrid Crossover
The Element 3 features a passive-active crossover system derived from our award-winning designs. Phase alignment, buffer stages, and matched components ensure optimal signal flow and speaker-driver control.
Custom Acoustic Tuning
Two switches on the rear panel let users adjust bass output (-3/0/+3dB) and standby mode. This allows for room-dependent tuning and personal sound preference without compromising accuracy.
Wiring & Assembly
All wiring is done by hand with solid Silver-Gold conductors. Every component is selected, matched, and tested with the same precision applied in our highest-end audio gear.
A 3-way loudspeaker built for effortless detail, room-friendly bass, and acoustic precision.
The Element 5 – Power in Precision, Depth in Design
Extending the Element Series with greater scale and bass authority, shaped by decades of high-end audio engineering — and currently undergoing its final design refinements.
Please note: The Element 5 is still in its final development stage. Features and specifications may be subject to change.
More Than Power – Engineered for Immersion
Every part of the Element 5 is crafted to deliver not only clarity, but commanding presence. Its Zero Gravity™ Bass system extends low-frequency depth to 19Hz, while maintaining speed and transparency. The larger sculptural enclosure enhances room integration while reinforcing detail — effortlessly, and without compromise.
From solid Silver-Gold wiring to our hybrid PAC™ crossover network, the Element 5 builds on the foundation of the Element 3 — but with more scale and headroom. Custom rear-panel switches allow precise tuning for your room or musical preference. This 3-way loudspeaker offers phase-perfect performance and dynamic precision, even in the most demanding listening environments.
Diapason is extremely pleased to officially announce that Paolo Tezzon and Davide Capra are joining our team. Paolo is going to become the head of Research & Development, while Davide is going to run Marketing and Communications. Davide and Paolo’s professionalism adds great “depth” to the Diapason team, allowing us to look forward to ambitious developments. Diapason is building its structure in order to face the challenges of an increasingly fluid and competitive reality. Our goal remains the same: keep the flags of absolute artisanal quality, of passionate devotion to musical reproduction and of “Made in Italy” flying high! https://diapason-italia.com/en/news.html
Diapasonは、Paolo TezzonとDavide Capraがチームに加わることを正式に発表いたします。 Paoloは研究開発部門の責任者に、Davideはマーケティングおよびコミュニケーション部門を担当します。 DavideとPaoloのプロフェッショナリズムはDiapasonチームに大きな「深み」をもたらし、意欲的な開発への期待を高めてくれます。 Diapasonは、ますます流動的で競争の激しい現実に立ち向かうために、組織体制を構築しています。 私たちの目標は変わりません。それは、職人技による究極の品質、音楽再生への情熱、そして「Made in Italy」の旗印を高く掲げ続けることです。 https://diapason-italia.com/en/news.html
It is a precisely tuned sound instrument, where the process of tuning the membranes mirrors the precision and craftsmanship of tuning musical instruments such as a piano. Based on Sinus technology, the design incorporates nearly one hundred ultra-light, panel-structured membranes, creating a dense resonant network across the entire audible frequency range. This innovation achieves unparalleled performance – from deep sub-bass frequencies to crystal-clear, ultra-high tones – making Lirogon unique in the world of electrostats.
The Lirogon Origin is not just about technology – it’s about emotions that are not only heard but deeply felt. Every detail is vivid, every nuance resonates with life, unveiling new dimensions of sound and offering you a journey beyond the horizon of conventional audio possibilities.
Sinus technology eliminates traditional crossovers in favor of a simple voltage gradation system. This mechanical bandwidth division enables natural sound reproduction, allowing each membrane to play audio signals across a wide frequency range. As a result, harmonics – from the deep tones of a drum to the delicate vibrations of a string – are rendered with greater fullness and authenticity.
Sinus also ensures perfect time-phase alignment between the left and right channels, creating a holographic soundstage. Precise tuning and design – from the membranes to the electronics and supporting structure – enable the realistic placement of sound sources in space with unmatched accuracy.
Three boxes, much like a larger Cascade DAC system. One Digital Director approximately 4” tall, one Analog Converter approximately 10” tall and one Power Supply approximately 10” tall.
The analog converter and power supply caseworks are very intricate, 3d designs with tight margins for electrical, mechanical, shielding, thermal, serviceability and aesthetic performance requirements.
Introducing: VENTUS – The Future of Phono Debuts at HighEnd 2025
After over two years of development, the wait is finally over. At HighEnd 2025 in Munich, Analog Manufaktur Germany proudly unveils the VENTUS.
Designed by Julian Lorenzi and handcrafted by our dedicated team, the Ventus isn’t just a new product – it’s the next chapter in our pursuit of audiophile perfection. Limited in production, timeless in design and built to perform at the highest level.
Be among the first to experience what true German engineering sounds like.
🔹 3 inputs and 1 output each independent, fully balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA connections 🔹 True dual-mono construction housed in precision machined solid aluminum chassis 🔹 Two gain stages 🔹 Fully adjustable gain and loading for each input 🔹 Mechanical decoupled PCB 🔹 Fully discrete design with JFET & MOSFET circuitry 🔹 Open loop with zero negative feedback 🔹 RIAA PPS and PP silver & gold capacitors
Comprising of a 3-way, 4 driver array, the Dewstar delivers a flat frequency response from 25 Hz to 46 kHz and, in a typical reference environment, has almost unlimited headroom. Its prodigious two module AC4C aluminium unicast cabinet also makes it capable of producing lightning fast subsonic frequencies.
Incorporating our latest generation of electronic components, the Dewstar is designed to create the purest possible signal pathway, producing a freshness and vitality that will bring new life to your favourite performances.
We’re exceptionally proud of Dewstar, and once you experience it for yourself, we’re sure you will appreciate the work and dedication that have gone into bringing this loudspeaker to fruition.
Technology
Hanji Midrange Driver
Hanji is a traditional Korean handmade paper renowned for its durability and versatility. It is primarily made from the inner bark of the Paper mulberry tree (Broussonetia papyrifera), which thrives in Korea’s mountainous regions. The production of hanji dates back to at least the 1st century BCE, making it one of the oldest forms of paper in the world.
The Hanji driver is a unique technology developed by Seawave Acoustic to produce open, silky highs free from any harshness, even when producing phenomenal SPLs.
With a manufacturing process developed in Korea over millennia, Hanji paper is renowned for its quality and robustness. Today it provides a material perfectly suited to producing those discriminating mid frequencies to which our ear is particularly sensitive.
AC4C Aluminium Mould
To reproduce the low frequencies that Seawave Acoustic is renowned for, we experimented with a wide range of compounds. After testing exotic compounds such as Kevlar, we eventually chose AC4C aluminium which is extraordinarily inert. Working closely and tirelessly with our partners we managed to achieve the impossible, creating both the external cabinet and integrated chambers for their respective drive units.
What we have produced is an extremely inert speaker cabinet that allows us to fully realise the bass potential from our componentry while presenting an aesthetically beautiful form. Comprising of an infinite baffle configurations for the mid and tweeter with individual port reflex enclosures for the mid-bass and bass sections, the Dewstar AC4C unicast cabinet is an expression of our highest ambitions.
Non-Soldering Technology (NST)
Every electrical connection point within the Dewstar is made using our proprietary non-solder methodology (NST). Solder is lead-based and therefore impedes an electrical signal, causing a drop in the voltage which negatively affects the sound. And so, we twist and press together the connections using our specially formulated method, sealing them to create a long-lasting, high performance electrical pathway. The result: an increase in the transparency of the loudspeaker and an enhanced sense of dynamic expression.
Harmonic integrity, too, is also improved. Seawave Acoustic’s NST demonstrates the lengths we go to minimise any loss in performance of the original electrical signal that ultimately defines the speaker’s acoustic output.
Specially Produced Resistors
While developing the Dewstar, which uses our NST method to eliminate lead solder, we realised that our third-party components also relied upon lead solder. To ensure the highest quality signal path and we resolved to produce our own resistor thus eliminating altogether the need for solder. Using silver adhesive to bind the connections, we have managed to create a resistor that matches the performance level required by our designs.
Nickel Core Inductors
Normal Air Coil inductors can be an obstacle in the signal path because of the length of the conductor used to produce the values required for crossovers. Seeing these limitations, Seawave has developed hand-made inductors from specially-constructed nickel cores and 12AWG 6N copper coil foil, insulated with DuPont PTFE film. The result is a much shorter inductor length and a dramatic decrease in resistive value. This produces a level of bass performance never before heard in a speaker as compact as the Dewstar.
Insulators
To eliminate any vibration from the environment being transferred to the speaker, Seawave Acoustic has designed HDMT insulators to separate the specially constructed AC4C alloy stands from the Dewstar itself.
This technology was developed for use in particle accelerators and not only insulates and separates the cabinet from the floor, but also eliminates any other acoustic energy discharged into the room
Specification
DesignBass Reflex, 3 Way / 4 SpeakerDriver UnitsTweeter: 1″ Diamond Midrange: 6.5″ Hanji Woofer: ETON 11″ 2eaEnclosureAC4C Aluminium Unicast CabinetFrequency Response25Hz – 46KHzSensitivity94dBImpedance4 ohmCrossover Frequency150Hz, 2,500HzAmplifier Requirements100 ~ 1000WWeight190KgDimensions (WHD)540 x 1300 x 740 mmColoursBlack & Silver / Black & Red / Cream Pearl & Satin Green / Poseidon Blue & Marine Beach / Bespoke option
Munich High-End exhibition we will be unveiling the new Pisa model — a true reference 3-way system that will become part of our Icone series: our masterpieces, and the most ambitious challenges we’ve embraced in loudspeaker design.
REFERENCE PowerIsolator (RPI) is the perfect surge-spike protection and power conditioning solution for ConnoisseurLevel music and film systems. It works well with ULTIMATE Companions to provide superior component isolation and unrestricted, noise-free power.
RPI uses robust power factor correction and custom-designed common-mode noise rejection. Unique custom-built feet make RPI more resistant to vibrations, and extensive internal bracing brings greater mechanical stability and superior vibration damping. Star grounding ensures all outlets have the same potential to ground, and a chassis ground lug resolves potential grounding-related issues.
RPI has 8 outlets in 4 isolated banks, all with fail-safe lightning-fast avalanche diode AC surge protection. RPI features a hydraulic-magnetic circuit breaker that provides overcurrent protection without degrading performance, and also includes gigabit network surge protection to further protect connected components.
REFERENCE PowerIsolator is handcrafted in the USA and has a Transparent Connected Equipment Warranty. RPI comes with an upgradeable REFERENCE Power Cord for the wall outlet connection. Transparent recommends using REFERENCE Power Cords with all associated components.
8 high-current, grounded US outlets (8-outlet EU version coming soon)
Handcrafted danish design. Innovative technological excellence. Enter the dual dimension of sound
Developed entirely from the ground up, the Audiovector R 10 represents the ultimate home audio experience. Every single component has been purpose-designed to deliver the most natural, dynamic, and open sound reproduction we have ever achieved. By immersing the listener in the full breadth, depth and detail of music, it adds a new dimension to every track.
A suite of the latest generation of Audiovector innovations includes the newly developed Dual Air Motion Transformer. Working in harmony with our Soundstage Enhancement Concept (SEC), it delivers an exceptionally open, precise and three-dimensional treble – allowing music not only to be heard, but truly felt.
A proprietary line array bass system radiates sound both forward and backward, dispersing the bass more effectively than a conventional speaker. This significantly enhances realism and makes it easier to feel the music.
The low-frequency array of eight rear-mounted bass drivers is groundbreaking. Representing the equivalent surface area and displacement of a 15-inch woofer, it ensures profound bass extension with controlled articulation, creating a vast and open soundstage with a deep and involving bass.
The Accelerated Force Concept (AFC) bass/midrange structure also sets a new benchmark, accelerating and decelerating the drive units with precision and control. This results in a lightning-fast response, ultra-low distortion, and a physical presence in the sound that you can both hear and feel.
Our uniquely flexible Damping Feature aligns cabinet resonance and energy release in perfect synchrony with the music. The result is a calm, controlled, and profoundly musical performance.
Colours and Veneers
The Audiovector R 10 Arreté is a unique, one-of-its-kind loudspeaker as visually arresting as it is acoustically stunning. Each cabinet is meticulously hand-crafted from premium, high-density hardwood fibreboard, vacuum-formed and intricately braced to deliver exceptional rigidity. Precision-milled 6061 aluminium baffles provide further structural integrity to dramatically reduce vibration and distortion.
The R 10 is available in a curated selection of exquisite finishes: African Mahogany Crotch Piano, Canadian Birdseye Maple Piano, and Italian Walnut Burl Piano.
Standard Piano finishes: African Mahogany Crotch | Canadian Birdseye Maple | Italian Walnut Burl
SPECIFICATIONS R 10 ARRETÈ
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
21-53 kHz
Average Impedance
8 Ohms
Minimum Impedance
5 Ohm
Sensitivity
90 dB/W
CROSSOVER FREQUENCIES
180 Hz, 450 Hz, 3,000 Hz, 20,000 Hz
Bass Drivers
8 × 5” long-throw, low distortion
Lower mid drivers
2 × 6.5” AFC carbon sandwich
mid drivers
6.5” AFC carbon sandwich
Tweeter
3800mm2 AMT N51
Extended Tweeter
3800mm2 AMT N51
TERMINALS
High Current Nextgen Bi-Wire for 4mm plugs or spades
Dimensions
H156 × W36.5 × D62.7 cm without spikes
Weight
Approx. 95 kg per unit
Finishes
Canadian Birdseye Maple, African Mahogany Crotch, Italian Walnut Burl. All finishes are piano lacquered, with custom paint finishes available on request
R 10 Arreté
デンマークのハンドクラフトデザイン。革新的な技術の卓越性。サウンドの二次元へ
Audiovector R 10は、ゼロから開発された究極のホームオーディオ体験を提供します。すべてのコンポーネントは、これまでで最も自然でダイナミック、そして開放的なサウンド再生を実現するために特別に設計されています。リスナーを音楽の広がり、深み、そしてディテールに浸りきらせることで、あらゆるトラックに新たな次元をもたらします。
Audiovector R 10 Arretéは、視覚的にも音響的にも圧倒的な存在感を誇る、他に類を見ないユニークなスピーカーです。キャビネットは、最高級の高密度ハードウッドファイバーボードを真空成形し、緻密なブレースで丁寧に手作業で製作されています。卓越した剛性を実現するために、キャビネットはすべて丁寧に組み上げられています。精密に加工された6061アルミニウムバッフルは、構造的な堅牢性をさらに高め、振動と歪みを大幅に低減します。
R 10は、厳選された美しい仕上げからお選びいただけます。アフリカン・マホガニー・クロッチ・ピアノ、カナディアン・バーズアイ・メープル・ピアノ、イタリアン・ウォルナット・バール・ピアノです。
𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗻𝘆𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛 𝗘𝗡𝗗 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱! We’re thrilled to announce a special treat for vinyl lovers and fans of our brand ambassador Anette Askvik: 𝗔 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗣 𝘃𝗶𝗻𝘆𝗹 𝗳𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘀 by the Norwegian artist will be available exclusively at the show!
HIGH END 2025 Edition – 180g, 45 rpm Tracks: Liberty / Under The Tallest Tree / Nærmere enn du tror / Lyden av snø