HiFi NEWS JULY 31 2026 (TEXT & VIDEO)

This week’s HiFi News covers the upgraded Wharfedale Elysian R loudspeaker range, Clearaudio’s affordable N2 moving-magnet cartridge and the versatile Tangent Spectrum II X5 Active BT speakers.

WHARFEDALE ELYSIAN R UPGRADED

The new Elysian R Series replaces all five Elysian models, enhancing performance through refinements in crossover execution, enhanced AMT high-frequency drivers featuring an ultra-lightweight PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) diaphragm with an enlarged design and acoustically damped rear chamber. 

The bass and midrange drivers include enhancements to the low-mass, high-strength cone construction that complements the new driver’s motor system.

There’s also cabinet refinements and three finish options including black, white and walnut in high-gloss piano lacquer.

Contact: www.wharfedale.co.uk 

CLEARAUDIO N2 CARTRIDGE

This new moving-magnet cartridge weighs just 8.5g and features a motor assembly from the N1. The N2 introduces a chassis crafted from PETG-CF, a specialist engineering polymer reinforced with carbon fibres plus threaded inserts. 

The Clearaudio N2 MM cartridge is available now from authorised Clearaudio dealers and the Clearaudio online shop. Pricing is £250/€250/$290.

Contact: www.clearaudio.de/en/ 

TANGENT SPECTRUM II X5 ACTIVE BT

The Spectrum II X5 Active BT powered speakers feature a 2 × 50 W Class D amplification, a 130mm cellulose‑pulp mid‑bass driver and 25mm soft‑dome tweeter. 

Connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.3 with AptX HD plus a built‑in Phono MM input forturntable connection. HDMI ARC is included for TV connection

Additional optical, coax and USB inputs sit alongside a dedicated subwoofer output.

Available in satin black or white, sensitivity is 88dB into 6 Ohm. Size is 166 x 322 x 205mm. The master speaker weighs in at 5.1kg while the passive speaker weighs 4. Kg. Accessories include an infrared remote control 

Price? £499

Contact: www.tangent-audio.com/speakers.html 

ATONEMO NTS RADIO PLAYER

Swedish outfit Atonemo has partnered with radio platform NTS Radio to release the Atonemo NTS Radio Player, a compact Wi-Fi streamer that brings NTS’s curated channels and mixtapes to virtually any speaker or amplifier in the world.

There are no content choices here with the central unit. You get what you’re given. Plug it in, press play and NTS’s global programming takes over.

A 3.5mm analogue output is included. At 70 × 105 × 23mm, the device supports up to 24bit/192kHz playback and is compatible with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect, covering the major streaming ecosystems.

The NTS Radio Player is available now on both the Atonemo and NTS Radio websites, with a suggested retail price of £129/€149/$169.

Contact: atonemo.com

JAMO HYG WIRELESS SPEAKERS

Jamo has unveiled the new HYG speakers: HYG Flex, HYG Flow and HYG Reflect.

The HYG Flex is wrapped in soft fabric with a cylindrical silhouette. Featuring dual angled tweeters and a dedicated 127mm mid/bass unit. Auracast connectivity allows multiple compatible Jamo speakers to connect for multi-room listening or stereo pairing, a built-in ambient base light is included too.

HYG Flow has been developed for outdoor spaces. Compact, portable and IPX7 waterproof-rated, the HYG Flow features a custom braided handle and nano-coated water resistant fabric. Dual full-range drivers and passive radiators push out 27 hours of battery playback and Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity.

HYG Reflect is a bedroom-type speaker combining warm ambient lighting, wireless charging, it is designed to support rest and relaxation via passive radiator technology.

Contact: www.jamo.com/ 

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