Future TAS: EBI Audio, MBL, Dynaudio

EBI Audio Khumar Phono Cartridge

Khumar means crazy, as in crazy about music, crazy about hi-fi. More to the point, Khumar is also EBI Audio’s expressive new low-output moving-coil phono cartridge. Khumar is engineered and precision-built in Uttar Pradesh, India, and loaded with exotic components and materials, including a gorgeous handcrafted ebony-wood body, Shibata III stylus and boron cantilever assembly from Orbray (formerly Namiki), and a magnetic core with soft iron and neodymium magnets. Input impedance is a low 2 ohms, while output impedance is an impressive 0.3mV, “making Khumar an easy drive for modern phonostages.” Channel separation is spec’d at an excellent >32dB. Khumar’s hardwood body imbues the cartridge with an expressiveness that is addictive but remains even top to bottom with superb imaging and spatial qualities. Combined with an openness and resolving power that belie its modest price, Khumar is a truly special offering, the first of many from EBI Audio.

Price: $2599. mibsdistro.com

MBL C41 Network Player

The latest addition to MBL’s esteemed Cadenza Line, the C41 sets new standards in sound quality and seamless music streaming. The MBL C41 is a state-of-the-art digital-to-analog converter featuring MBL’s proprietary True Peak and Core Volume Control technologies (resolution up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD64). These innovations deliver pristine music reproduction with superb clarity and naturalness, free from distortion and artifacts regardless of the volume setting. The C41 is compatible with a wide range of streaming partners such as Roon, UPnP/DLNA, Audirvana, Airplay/Shairport, Tidal, Spotify, and Qobuz. Developed for easy integration into existing hi-fi systems, the C41 has a variety of inputs and outputs that simplifies connection to various audio chains. The Core Volume Control technology eliminates the need for a separate preamplifier and streamlines setup without sacrificing performance. Laden with innovations and digital processing advancements by MBL chief developer Jürgen Reis, the C41 provides an unrivaled audiophile listening experience.