Sound Living

FREE MAGAZINE EDITION 2019/2020

2019/20 EDITION

You’ve seen it, but not like this QLED 8K. See Samsung’s stunning new televisions from page 98.

Experience truly immersive TV with the 2019 QLED range.

Sound & Vision Brand of the Year, June 2019

“Even at the widest angles, colours remain vibrant and blacks remain pure.”*

“A stellar TV that sets a mighty high bar for the rest of 2019’s TV contingent to follow.”†

“We doubt any television will be better than the Samsung Q90R.”‡

“The new Ultra Black Elite filter is nothing short of a revelation.”△

Applies to the QE65Q90R only (February, 2019). †Applies to the QE65Q90R only (March, 2019). ‡Applies to the QE65Q90R only (June, 2019). △Applies to the QE65Q90R only (June, 2019).

*

Contents Welcome to Richer Sounds ����������������������������������������������������� 4

Smart home ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16

The Richer Sounds difference ���������������������������������������������� 6

Hi-F‌i – for the love of music ����������������������������������������������� 18

Our free VIP Club ������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8

The television & home cinema experience ��������� 65

Experience Rooms ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 10

Before you visit �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 120

Free on-site surveys & installations ������������������������������ 12

Store f‌inder ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 122

Front cover – Television: Samsung QE55Q950R. Soundbar: Samsung HWQ90R

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Welcome to Richer Sounds

Experience better from a proudly employee-owned company When I set up shop in London Bridge in 1978, my mission was simple: give customers great-value audio products, keep overheads down and buy big, so my prices could be razor-sharp. Just over four decades on, it was a proud moment to pass over a 60% share of Richer Sounds to our team as part of an Employee Ownership Trust. Having always planned for some time to leave the company in trust for the benefit of the colleagues in the business, I felt the time was right at the age of 60, rather than leaving it until I’m not around, to ensure that the transition goes smoothly and so I could be part of it. On a personal level, I play in a band and I’m as passionate about music as I always was. Great music, played live or through a quality sound system, will always be one of life’s best pleasures. That love is shared by everyone at Richer Sounds – we employ people because they’re friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about music, films and video games, plus the tech to play them on and enjoy sharing their knowledge. With a team more committed than ever to our mission, we now also stock a wide range of wireless streamers, home cinema equipment, projectors, Smart home, 4K and even 8K UHD TVs for a complete audiovisual experience. What’s more, for over 25 years now, Guinness Book of Records have recognised the first Richer Sounds store at London Bridge

as having the highest sales per square foot of any retailer in the world. We stock more products than ever and try our best to go further, to help you navigate your options. With physical stores across the UK, you can benefit from seeing, touching and hearing before you buy. All of our locations feature home-styled demonstration rooms and there are big stocks in each of our stores that you can take home today. We can also arrange delivery for you, so you can enjoy your purchases straight away! We also now come to you, free of charge. Our experts will visit your home or place of work (approx. 10 mile radius from a Richer Sounds store, negotiable at manager’s discretion) to help you figure out your needs, truly understanding your environment, as well as how your equipment will be used, all with no obligation to buy. If you wish, our team and our approved installation partners can return to fit it all and show you how to use it. We have never offered a more comprehensive service. Our VIP Club – which is free for all and takes seconds to join – also gives you added perks such as a six-year guarantee on the vast majority of TVs, projectors and wireless multiroom systems, the freedom to shop from 8am-8pm by appointment and special VIP-only prices on many lines.

website that expects you to make a major purchase on the back of a spec sheet, without seeing what you’re buying, or a business that hides behind an email address when you need help. We’re not a supermarket offering a “bargain” on a brand you’ve never heard of, or a department store whose employees most likely lack the specialist, impartial knowledge we provide. We pride ourselves on being there for you – in stores, at your home or place of work, or on the end of a phone – to help and advise. It is this commitment to great service that helped us become the Which? Retailer of the Year 2019 (not just for electronics, but for all types of retail), the 5th time we’ve won in ten years, including the last two. Despite delivering all these new services, we still can’t, and won’t, be beaten on price. Whether online or in store, if we haven’t got the best deals already, our Price Beat guarantees prices at least as good as, if not better than, anyone else’s. Shopping with us has never made more sense! We look forward to welcoming you and showing you the Richer Sounds difference. Yours,

As our loyal customers appreciate, we’re not a faceless, foreign-owned

We’re passionate about what we do. This is why we love to support unsigned musicians and Record Store Day.

hannahjacksonmusicuk

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jamesmorrisonmusic.com

Biggest brands Naturally you only want the best in audio and visual entertainment equipment. That’s why we only stock products we believe in.

Best prices We check rivals’ prices daily, online and in stores. If you do find anything you’ve bought from us cheaper elsewhere within seven days, we’ll beat that price! See our Price Beat online.

Expert advice Our team are chosen for audio-visual expertise, their love of music and movies and their

enthusiasm, not slick sales patter. In addition to this, we give them extensive product training – in fact, we purposefully don’t open our shops until midday, so our experts can spend time watching and listening to new kit, attending training sessions and brushing up on their knowledge. We want you to get advice you can trust and go home with the right product for you.

ethical organisations. If our colleagues are unwell, we encourage them to take time off to recover.

We aim to play fair with our staff and our suppliers.

In addition, understanding the importance of cash flow to our suppliers, we pay every one of them on time and in an average of only 18 days – over twice as fast as the national norm.

We make every effort to look after the people who work for us as well as those we work with by not punishing staff sickness, unlike some less

We are also one of only a few retailers to be an accredited Living Wage employer and we strongly believe in guaranteed working hours, and absolutely oppose evil zero-hour contracts (unless requested by the employee).

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PROFIT DONATION

We’re incredibly delighted to have won the Which? Retailer of the Year Award for 2019.

We’re proud to hold the Fair Tax Mark for transparency over tax disclosures and the amount of tax paid.

“Richer Sounds donates a higher percentage of profit than any other privately-owned company.” – The Guardian

T HE MAYOR’S GOOD WORK STANDARD

Prompt Payment Code Approved Signatory

We pay our suppliers within the terms agreed, and encourage the adoption of the code.

We believe in guaranteed working hours, and oppose evil zero-hour contracts (unless requested by the employee).

Carbon Neutral

www.promptpaymentcode.org.uk

Our Employee Ownership Trust means our colleagues indirectly own 60% of the company and have a real stake in our success.

We are one of only a few retailers to be an accredited Living Wage employer, with no staff on zero-hour contracts.

Organisation

We’re thrilled to be recognised by the Mayor of London for our high employment standards.

We work with Carbon Footprint Limited to achieve a Carbon Neutral organisation.

We hold a zero-tolerance approach to slavery and human trafficking.

For over 25 years, our first store at London Bridge has been accredited with the highest sales per sq ft of any retailer in the world.

Don’t suffer in silence

By Appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales Supplier Of Consumer Electronic Products Richer Sounds Ltd. London

To help victims of anti-social behaviour we established and fund ASB Help. www.asbhelp.co.uk

We founded Acts435, a charity giving 100% of donations to those in need. www.acts435.org.uk/give

An investigative think tank set up by our founder, Julian Richer, to investigate and expose aggressive tax avoidance.

Our not-for-profit organisation designed to help and support musicians and artists by promoting the UK’s best undiscovered music.

Our in-store experts love to talk about how your home entertainment set-up can bring music and movies to life.

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The Richer Sounds difference

Experience better prices, products and expertise, plus free advice in your home or place of work Introducing the Richer Sounds difference – we believe in one simple phrase that sums up everything we do: “Experience better with the biggest brands, best prices, expert advice and take it home today”. We stock only the best and “biggest brands”, and only products we believe in. We also don’t stock, or try to be experts in, everything. If you need a washing machine, drill or baby monitor, you’re in the wrong store, but for the best in audio and visual entertainment, we’ve got you covered like no one else. Most retailers don’t keep big items in stock, forcing you to wait for days. However, because we only focus on hi-fi, Smart home equipment, TV and home cinema, the chances are we’ll have everything in stock – so you can take it home from the store today. For “best prices”, we check rival deals online and in stores daily. In the unlikely event you do find anything cheaper elsewhere, including online, we’ll beat that price, including voucher and system deals, even up to 7 days after your purchase. (Delivery charge added if the offer is mail order only. See our Price Beat online.)

Where the Richer Sounds difference really shines, though, is in our “expert advice”. All our team are music, movie and gaming enthusiasts as well as experts on home entertainment equipment (seriously – they complete new product training every day). They’re there to find a perfect match to your needs and your budget, big or small, and to think of the things that may have been missed.

manager’s discretion), free of charge, to better understand your needs. Our on-site surveys have no strings attached; they just let us tailor our advice to suit you. We want you to be a life-long customer. We’re always here to answer your queries and to help you with all your audio-visual needs. Visit your local store and experience the Richer Sounds difference for yourself.

Whether you simply want to upgrade your TV, plan the most elaborate installation, or just want better quality audio but don’t know where to begin, our expertise is here for you. At each store, as well as chatting through options, we’ll also ensure you enjoy an audition in one of our home-styled Experience Rooms. What’s more, in order to spend quality time with us as you decide on those larger purchases, we now open stores early and late on weekdays, by appointment for our VIP Club members. Membership is completely free – sign up in store or online in seconds with just an email address. Better still, one of our experts can visit your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at

“We’re 100% focussed on delivering the best TV, hi-fi and home cinema experience – all at unbeatable low prices that are checked daily against the competition.” Simon, Manager, Kingston store. 16th year of service.

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We’ll come to you. Enjoy relaxed demonstrations and free advice from our fully-trained advisors.

Try before you buy

We’ll come to you

Our free VIP Club

Enjoy trying out new equipment in a setting that feels like home, rather than a busy shop floor. All our stores include Experience Rooms so you can take your time, have a coffee, bring your favourite tunes and movies, and give your choices a proper workout.

We will come to your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion) free of charge and with no strings attached. It’s the best way for us to understand your space and your needs. If required, we can often bring equipment with us to demonstrate, so you can hear it in your own surroundings before you commit.

Get out-of-hours appointments (8 till 8 weekdays, even if the store’s closed), exclusive discounts and loads more, including free six-year extended guarantees on the vast majority of TVs, projectors and wireless multiroom systems. Membership is entirely free: sign up in stores or online in seconds with just an email address.

Take it home today From headphones to big screens, we have stocks that you can take home today, without any delays or waiting in for couriers. Alternatively, the vast majority of our shops offer same-day delivery, just ask in store.

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We’ll happily install it for you We can help you at home, or work, with anything from mounting a new TV on the wall to installing a high-end multiroom and Smart home system. We use expert installers and we’ll manage the whole process so it’s seamless.

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Our free VIP Club – one in a million

For exclusive benefits, great deals and more, join our free VIP Club and experience better today!

“Try your equipment choices at a time that suits you, even if the store is closed, with a VIP appointment.” Damien, Manager, Brighton store. 21st year of service.

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Get our very best prices, a six-year extended guarantee included on the vast majority of TVs, projectors and wireless multiroom systems, access to our stores and Experience Rooms outside shop hours, and lots more good stuff when you join the Richer Sounds VIP Club. What’s the catch? There isn’t one. Simply sign up in stores or online in seconds with just an email address. It’s free – today, and forever.

Special VIP-only discounts What’s better than our already unbeatable prices? Our VIP offers! As a VIP, we want to give you something extra. VIP Club members get special VIP-only reductions on our already unbeatable prices. The biggest brands, the best products, for even less – look in any recent Richer Sounds catalogue or mailshot to see how many special VIP prices we offer on top of our year-round value.

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Six-year guarantee included As an extra special “thanks”, all VIP Club members qualify for a six-year guarantee on the vast majority of TVs, projectors and wireless multiroom systems.

We open just for you Our stores open at noon for a good reason: staff receive in-depth training on new products on a daily basis. We understand that sometimes getting to the store during opening hours can be difficult, so we are open 12 hours a day, from 8am until 8pm by appointment on weekdays, exclusively for VIP Club members. Come in and browse, talk to our team and use our Experience Rooms when it’s quiet, at a time that suits you. Compare the products you’re most interested in. Experience totally immersive surround sound systems, including those featuring the latest Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technology.

Try out projectors. Listen to how good streaming can sound. See – and hear – our products for yourself. Bring your family, friends, your favourite music and movies, your pets and anything else you might need to help you make the right choice – we’ll supply the coffee and advice! It’s all part of the service when you join our free VIP Club. Simply call us to make an appointment. We can help you plan multiroom music streaming, a full home cinema install or an office multimedia room, and make sure you know how to get the best out of your new equipment. If you decide that you want installation, the work is done by our network of trusted installers, with Richer Sounds colleagues managing the whole process. We handle everything, so it’s seamless and stress-free for you. We hope you’ll agree it pays to be a VIP!

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Home-styled demo rooms

See and hear first-hand, before you buy, in an Experience Room that feels like home

“To find out which equipment will make your music and movies give you goosebumps, our Experience Rooms are the place to go.” Dawn, Manager, Lichfield store. 8th year of service.

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If you know exactly what you want, we’ll have it for you (at an unbeatable price) and can talk you through anything else you might need. If you’re unsure or want to be positive that you’ve made the right choice, we have a home-styled Experience Room in every store that allows you to audition the items on your shortlist. It serves as the perfect introduction to the magic of home cinema, hi-fi separates Smart home technology and home automation. Discover the difference with hi-fi separates and home automation in our Experience Room. If you’ve never heard your favourite song on a high-performance audio system, you’ll feel your music come alive. Delicate, previously hidden layers of the song will be revealed with quality hi-fi bringing to light the subtle nuances of a track that lesser equipment obscures. You’ll feel every emotion, every whisper that the artist recorded – a separates system and some great music really does get

your feet tapping and the hairs on the back of your neck standing up. For film buffs and gamers alike, we have a selection of home cinema gear that delivers a jaw-dropping thrill ride as sound wraps around you, taking you closer to the heart of the action. Most directors agree that sound makes up 50% or more of your enjoyment of a film, so experience movies, TV shows and video games in the way that the director intended – with effects whizzing around, earth-shaking explosions and swelling, cinematic soundtracks. Every Richer Sounds Experience Room can now demo Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so you can discover the difference truly three-dimensional home cinema surround sound makes today. You can also experience the latest Smart home technology, with voice control and home automation. Command everything from playlists to lighting with ease. In our Experience Room, see for yourself how wireless tech can help your system serve you

better. We can show you how easy it is to control all of your entertainment with nothing but your voice – and a little bit of kit! Smart equipment can even talk to other Smart devices, so a single command can set the scene perfectly; dim the lights, drop the projector screen, boot-up Netflix, all with a simple request. Our Experience Rooms are the perfect place to try a wide range of equipment. Sit in comfort in a home-styled room and find the set-up that’s precisely right for you: one that will deliver what you want most from audio and video – your ultimate stereo, perfect home cinema, the best and newest technology around. In addition, we also offer free home and place of work consultations (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion), so if you have difficulty getting to a store a demonstration can often be arranged at your choice of venue instead. Call in today to experience better for yourself.

What’s in the room? Every Richer Sounds store has an Experience Room – here’s what you can expect to find in yours:

Latest technologies Experience what’s new in home cinema, such as Dolby Atmos in-ceiling speakers and DTS:X object-based sound technology for truly immersive surround sound, as well as internet streaming and Hi-Res Audio.

Products to compare We carry a huge range of home entertainment equipment and the Experience Rooms in every store are the perfect place to see how different home cinema amplifiers, streaming speakers or TVs compare in a home-like environment.

Beyond home entertainment Our Experience Rooms now also boast Smart home tech. Find out the benefits of voice-controlled, wireless tech that integrates music and video streaming. We can even talk you through a fullyconnected Smart home, including home security, lighting, heating, and more.

New ideas If you’ve wondered whether there’s a projector to fit your room, or want to hear the difference between vinyl and high-resolution streaming, our Experience Rooms are where you can find out first-hand.

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All back to yours – free on-site survey

Our experts will come to you, free of charge

“Our free on-site visits are a great way for us to really get to know you and your needs. We can suggest entertainment solutions that can enhance your music, movies and gaming, or we can introduce newer tech, such as home automation.” Louise, Senior Sales Advisor, Romford store. 10th year of service.

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We’re proud of the fact that most of our customers can simply walk out of the store with their new purchase, but if you want a bit of extra help choosing your equipment in the comfort of your own surroundings, our experts will happily come to you. We will visit your home or place of work, free of charge, to advise (approx. 10 mile radius from a Richer Sounds store, negotiable at manager’s discretion). Visiting you helps us understand your needs and get the lie of the land. We can then create bespoke recommendations that suit you and your space perfectly. We can even bring a selection of equipment, so you can see and hear how potential purchases will match up with existing equipment, or just get an idea of how it will look in your living room or boardroom. We can look at, and listen to, your existing set-up and advise on any extras that could improve your experience. We can direct you to higher quality formats, multiroom convenience and Smart home controls that let you command not just your entertainment but also lighting and security by voice.

We pride ourselves on our personal service. Ideally, pop into your local Richer Sounds store first to see the array of equipment on offer, then book a visit to your home or place of work so we can survey your space and discuss what would work for you. If you can’t make it into the store, you can book a visit over the phone. You’ll be visited by someone who not only knows all about audio and visual entertainment but also knows how to make new systems work beautifully in real homes and places of work. If you do decide on an installation, it will be fitted by our network of trusted installers, with Richer Sounds staff managing the whole process. We handle everything, so it’s seamless and stress-free. We’ll also help with the all-important basics like showing you how to get the most out of your new purchases. We’re here to help make sure the whole process is easy, friendly and fun, and there are no strings attached to our free on-site surveys. Small or large ideas – we’re here for you far beyond the store doors.

Love music everywhere? From wireless speaker systems to hidden, wired systems with wall-mounted Smart controls, we can make your music follow you around your home.

Want to be in control? Take charge of your entertainment and Smart Home via app or with voice commands. It has never been easier.

Need a better soundtrack at work? The team that plays together, stays together. Our Smart speaker systems let work colleagues build collaborative playlists.

Hate wires and clutter? Whether you want a minimalist, clutterfree environment or you just don’t want the kids fiddling with kit, we can hide cables in walls, install a motorised hidden TV or automated projector screen, fit discreet speakers in walls or ceilings, and more. All without the mess.

Got a strange-shaped room? Some spaces are a sonic challenge. We can visit you to design and install a set-up that works, and optimise each speaker so you get the very best sound wherever you sit.

Passionate about music? Us too! From vinyl to Hi-Res Audio files, our in-store music enthusiasts can bring out every last detail from your music – and set it up beautifully.

Love movies? Our install team can simply hang your new TV on the wall or they can turn your spare room, cellar or garage into the ultimate home cinema: 4K/UHD projector, cinema-style seating, automated screen, even the latest object-based surround sound technology such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. Try it yourself in our stores before you buy.

A system that does more Smart controls and home automation, such as automated blinds and motorised screens, can make your home entertainment system do more.

Want your phone in control? Stream media from your chosen internet services, hide your system out of sight and then control everything by tablet or smartphone. Get control of a super Smart system from the palm of your hand.

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Why Richer service Installation Sounds?– go bespoke

We’ll create your perfect set-up, at home or at work

Television: Sony BRAVIA KD55XG9505

“We’ve installed equipment everywhere from large schools and hospitals, down to smaller areas, such as boardrooms, dentists’ waiting areas and even submarines!” Joe, Field Sales Manager, London City store. 6th year of service.

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With Richer Sounds’ trusted installation service, the only limit is your imagination! Our team is here to dream up a system that meets – and exceeds – your needs and expectations, whether that’s at home or work. Tell us about your passion for music, movies, games or all three and we’ll bring that passion to life. A bespoke installation gives you much more than multiroom home entertainment at the touch of a button. It’s tailored to suit the way you want to live, with whole-house Smart controls for lighting, heating, CCTV and security, and more. Watch, play and listen in outstanding quality from every room in the house, while controlling your Smart home from a phone, tablet or wall-mounted pad. Start by coming in for a chat with our experts in store. There’s a home-style

Experience Room in every Richer Sounds store. See for yourself the difference a high-end home cinema projector or 8K OLED TV makes. Hear the difference an immersive Dolby Atmos or DTS:X surround sound system makes. Discover a wealth of other options, including multiroom audio, Smart voice control and home automation, such as automated blinds and motorised screens. We can even install plush cinema seating. In other words, we’ll do everything short of serving you popcorn every night. Next, if you like, we will happily make a free, no-obligation visit to your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion) to survey your space and inspire you with ideas tailored to your needs. Bespoke systems offer the ultimate in quality and convenience, whether you want something that disappears

or turns heads. We’ll help plan the room layout and then calibrate and position speakers for absolute maximum performance. We can also recommend furnishings to enhance the audio experience. It’s these little extras that set Richer Sounds apart. The technology does more and yet is more discreet than ever. Our trusted network of approved installers can make cabling completely invisible by channelling it into walls. They can even hide the speakers in walls and ceilings, so they’re heard but not seen. Whatever you want, however ambitious the project, Richer Sounds’ installation experts are here for you. We’ll help with the design, planning and execution of your installation, no matter how big or small. Visit us in store or give us a call to get started.

Public sector, commercial premises or developers’ residential portfolios – we can design cost-effective solutions for all types of business.

Installations to enhance your business Richer Sounds is best known for hi-fi and home cinema, but we also do superb – and superb value – commercial installations. For example, a boardroom where your tech just works, a reception area with wow factor or a restaurant where the music sounds perfect at every seat. Whether you want your workplace technology to turn heads or blend into the background, we’ll make sure it works brilliantly and comes in on budget.

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We also work closely with property developers to design Smart homes. Hidden equipment serves every room in the house with music, movies and high-speed internet. The offering goes beyond state-of-theart home entertainment: we can cover everything from home automation to Smart lighting, heating and security. The technology adds value and sets these new homes apart from the pack. Go off the peg or let house

buyers choose from a menu of options and even customise where their equipment sits. Richer Sounds can design and fit it all. Or we can simply supply the equipment for your own contractors to fit. Either way, our prices are unbeatable and our service is outstanding. Simply chat with our in-store experts or have us visit you (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion).

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Smart home

You already have the makings of a Smart home

Pre-amplifier with network player: Cambridge Audio Edge NQ | Power amplifier: Cambridge Audio Edge W

“With our Smart home systems you can control everything from a single app.” Alex, Manager, Nottingham store. 12th year of service.

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Do you have a TV or hi-fi? Thinking of getting one? Be aware that the latest models can do much more than you think. These Smart tech devices use your home network and the internet to stream your favourite music and movies all around your house.

In the morning, your alarm could trigger the coffee maker, news headlines and just the right amount of lighting to ease you into the day. Your Smart speaker could even read your new emails out loud to you in the shower.

With just a few clever add-ons, your TV or audio system can also double as a Smart home hub. What’s more, you can now control it all without lifting a finger. With a connected voice-activated device, a simple command could do everything from choosing your music to automating the whole house. One of our team will show you how…

It’s also easy to extend your entertainment network. Simply add Smart speakers in other rooms that connect wirelessly with your TV or hi-fi and you can stream your chosen song in any room – or all rooms – with ease.

Entertainment-wise, it’s about joinedup thinking. For example, you can use an app or voice control (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) to give a simple command that triggers a whole series of actions. They’re easy to set up and use, but the results are quite brilliant.

Smart home controls Control4 integrates all your technology into one easy-to-use system. Your phone or tablet can control everything (not just music and movies) with the touch of a button. Press “Goodnight” to put your house to sleep: by turning off the lights and locking all doors. Or press “Away” to turn off all your equipment, arm the home security system, lock the doors and alert you remotely to everything from visitors to leaks.

Voice control We can combine top-notch hi-fi and AV equipment with voice control, such as Amazon Alexa, for the perfect marriage of quality and convenience. Say a track name,

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But Smart homes go way beyond entertainment. The possibilities are almost limitless. For starters, think lighting, heating, security cameras and door locks all controlled by voice or app. But also geolocation of your mobile phone and simple IFTTT logic (see page 27) means your home can even tell when you’re about to return and get everything how you like it:

or even a lyric, and the song is immediately played through the speakers of your choice. Tell your TV to change channel, load Netflix and start a particular series just using your voice. You can also ask for news, travel, weather, or even to fine-tune your home’s lighting or heating. Everything is at your command.

turning the oven on, running the bath and more. Richer Sounds has long been leading the way with the latest home technology, take advantage of our free expertise at picking the best add-ons to work with your existing equipment and getting them to talk to each other to create a bespoke system. Sophisticated whole-house systems like this used to be the preserve of millionaires’ mansions. Now they’re accessible to all. From simple, voice-controlled speakers to whole-house automation, we’re excited about making the tech in your home do more. Come in to your local Richer Sounds store – or we can visit you in your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion) – and talk through what’s possible.

Joined-up thinking Smart climate controls can use sensors that know whether anyone’s home, so heating is only triggered when it’s needed. Open a window for some fresh air and the radiator below can automatically turn off, so you’re not wasting money. And of course you can also control everything from afar, via app.

Safe as houses Protect your home and your family by integrating home security into your Smart home. We can fit CCTV, alarm and entry systems that communicate with each other and can be remotely monitored from anywhere.

Above: Voice-controlled Smart TV soundbar: Sonos Beam

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Hi-f‌i & Smart audio 20

Hi-fi separates

28

Turntables

22

Music streaming

30

Mini systems

24

Wireless audio

32

Hi-fi headphones

26

Smart audio

34

Portable headphones

Hi-fi brands 36

Arcam

51

Monitor Audio

37

Audio Pro

52

Naim

38

Audiolab

53

Pro-Ject

39

Audioquest

54

Q Acoustics

40

Cambridge Audio

55

QED

44

DALI

56

RHA

45

Denon

57

Roksan

46

Focal

58

Sennheiser

47

Fyne Audio

60

Sonos

48

KEF

62

Technics

49

Marantz

64

Bowers & Wilkins

50

Mission

Turntable: Technics SL1200GR Cartridge: Ortofon 2M Red

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Great sound has the power to bring joy and sensational goosebump moments like nothing else We’re passionate about audio fidelity, which is why we keep the music at the heart of hi-fi. Great sound moves you... into the studio with your favourite band, the concert hall with the orchestra, sat in front of the singer. Close your eyes and be transported to wherever you want to be. We want to know the sounds you’re passionate about, and how and where you want to enjoy them. There are now more ways than ever to experience great sound, whether you’re

diving into treasured vinyl with your perfect stereo system, discovering new artists on Spotify while you cook dinner, or discovering newfound realism thanks to breathtaking Hi-Res Audio streaming. Let us help you find the listening setup that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand to attention. Music has never sounded better or been more convenient to enjoy. Tell us what you love to listen to... and we’ll listen.

“Music can move you, it can make you feel alive – there’s nothing in the world quite like it. That’s why how it sounds is so important.” Phil, Telesales Manager. 16th year of service.

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Hi-f‌i separates – for premium enjoyment

Want to hear your music in the best possible quality? Nothing beats separates A tune can evoke a memory. It’s the slowly building harshness of sound, leading to the catchy retort, on The Beatles’ ‘A Day In The Life’. It’s the beautiful picture painted exquisitely by the violin in Vaughan Williams’ ‘The Lark Ascending’. Great audio touches the heart (and soul). If you’re as into the quality of your audio as we are, a separates system is absolutely the best way to get maximum sound quality and stay future-proof. A well-chosen amp and speakers will last decades, with the added benefit that you can add sources or connections as new innovations come along. We have something to suit all budgets, can talk you through your options and ensure your components are well matched, keeping pace with the latest technology.

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What makes a system? Amplifier Both the brains and the muscles behind the operation. A good amp will draw maximum detail from your sources and deliver the signal more powerfully and precisely to speakers than any mini system or one-box solution.

Sources Plug good-quality audio sources into your amp and make your music come alive. For example, a turntable for enjoying vinyl old and new. Connect a network music player to stream digital music wirelessly from your phone, tablet, laptop or NAS hard drive and enjoy music from online services such as Spotify, Deezer and Tidal. If you’re buying an amplifier, check in store because some modern amps also have streaming features built in.

DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) Looking for an instant upgrade to your digital audio? Simply plug in a DAC between your digital source and your hi-fi. Your source (laptop, CD player, Blu-ray player, set-top box, Smartphone or tablet) already contains a DAC, but it’s usually a really basic one. Adding a standalone DAC lets you get at all the musical detail that the cheap built-in ones miss. Digital audio that may have sounded flat and dull suddenly comes to life with rich and vibrant tones.

Speakers of all sizes

Left – Turntable: Technics SL1200GR | CD player: Roksan Blak CD | Amplif‌ier: Roksan Blak Amp Speaker: DALI RUBICON 6 | Hi-f‌i rack: Alphason Apollo Storm 6 Above – CD player: Marantz CD6006 UK Edition | Amplif‌ier: Marantz PM6006 UK Edition Hi-f‌i rack: Norstone Bergen 2

“Let us show you how to experience better digital music from your laptop on your hi-fi or headphones, simply by running it through an external DAC.”

Speakers are as important as your amp when it comes to sound quality. Great speakers can make your music truly sing. Recent technological developments mean you can get fuller sound from a compact pair of bookshelf speakers. Big is beautiful, but small can sound great too. For those looking to fill a home with high quality sound with barely a speaker in sight, we also have in-ceiling and in-wall speakers, too.

Important extras The right cables are vital to get the best sound from your system. As well as speaker cables to do your music justice, you’ll need interconnects from your sources to the amp. Your system will only sound as good as its weakest link, so it’s a question of picking the right cable or interconnect to match the equipment. Every system is different; our team in-store will help you find the ones to make the most of yours. As well as cables and interconnects, we stock useful accessories like hi-fi racks, speaker stands and brackets, again to really get the very best out of your new equipment.

Tayla, Manager, Guildford store. 5th year of service.

For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Streaming – an entire world of music

Enjoy a near-infinite supply of great songs over the internet, at home or work

Voice-controlled Smart speaker: Yamaha MusicCast 50

Modern digital streaming services like Spotify and Tidal deliver amazing choice – literally millions of songs – in impressive quality. However, all too easily phone, tablet and computer speakers can lose much of that detail. With a little help from Richer Sounds, you’ll be listening to this exciting world of music in your living room, kitchen, place of work, bedroom or even bathroom – on hi-fi systems or wireless speakers, whatever works for you. Streaming services are increasingly built into everything, from hi-fi separates to mini systems, wireless speakers and beyond. If you have

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an older audio system that needs modernising, we can add streaming support to that too. Combine the very finest quality digital audio with a top-of-therange amplifier and speaker system and the results really will take your breath away. It takes good-quality equipment to appreciate Hi-Res Audio in particular. If you’re seriously into your music, network music players like the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 allow you to use Wi-Fi to stream 24-bit, studio-quality music stored on your laptop or NAS drive, or music from online services. There are also

multiroom components that plug into the back of existing hi-fi systems, or standalone multiroom speakers with streaming capabilities built in. You can choose whether to stream different music to each room, or have all rooms play the same track for a party. Embracing streaming doesn’t mean throwing out vinyl and CDs either. Streaming is also a great way of trying new music before you buy. Or go all-digital with services like Tidal, HDTracks and Qobuz, which offer premium Hi-Res Audio that sound better than CDs. The choice is yours – don’t miss out.

Network music streamer: Cambridge Audio CXN V2

Streaming services

One of the biggest streaming services, Spotify will let you search for new albums and songs from millions of tracks and stream them to your hi-fi or phone. Premium users can, for a monthly fee, have better sound quality, strip out ads, save tracks to a phone or tablet and listen offline. Some of the latest hi-fi separates, home cinema amps, wireless speakers and mini systems have Spotify Connect support built in, for amazing plug-and-play compatibility. Be sure to check out its Discover feature for great new music options.

Very similar to Spotify, Deezer works hard to challenge its rival where it can – with a different interface, somewhat bigger track selection globally, superb music recommendation system and lossless streaming – ideal if you want a quick boost to your audio.

Apple Music currently offers a three-month free trial, beyond which it’s similarly priced to rivals, but with a family deal that lets six people get access for barely more than one. What sets it apart is a focus on recommendations – with curated playlists from experts including big-name DJs – and access to internet station Beats 1 Radio, broadcast live 24/7. Apple Music’s best files are currently a bit lower resolution than some rivals though.

Enjoy unlimited streaming of all your music, with no strings attached. Qobuz is the only music platform in the world to offer you the possibility to both stream in Hi-Res, and purchase – it’s the world’s largest Lossless (CD quality) and Studio Quality (Hi-Res - up to 24-bit/192kHz) store, accessible without a subscription.

Stream or download from a massive collection of music, new and old. Unusually, Google Play Music also lets you upload your own music collection (up to 50,000 songs) for streaming anywhere. YouTube Music Premium is included and lets you enjoy music from YouTube in the background without ads and while using other apps.

The dedicated BBC Sounds app lets you catch up with the best in British radio, music & podcasts whenever and wherever you want.

Enjoy millions of tracks for free, or pay a fee to cut out adverts and download tracks to listen to offline. Its party trick is streaming the video as well as audio, though you can turn video off to save mobile data. One of the best-known high-resolution streaming services, also with major artist support, the Tidal streaming service is all about 16-bit/44.1kHz FLAC files (CD quality) and higher (Tidal Masters offers 24-bit/96kHz Hi-Res Audio). Alternative services such as Qobuz are also pushing high-resolution streaming and working with big names in hi-fi to ensure their service plays beautifully on many market-leading speakers.

If you have Prime membership already, then this is included. The music library is smaller than most, but a convenient choice if you have Smart speakers or other devices with built-in Alexa voice control – just tell it what you’d like to listen to and sit back and enjoy. Pay a bit more each month if you want Amazon Music Unlimited with a much larger library – 50 million songs, or upgrade to Hi-Res with Amazon Music HD

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Stream and download more than a million pieces of classical music. Detailed catalogue data means you can find and compare tracks by composer, orchestra, conductor and more.

  Just two of many excellent ways to discover new music, with artists hosting their own pages and recommendations based on what music you already love. See also: 8Tracks, Last.fm, Mixcloud and more.

For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Wireless audio – free the music

Wireless streaming is the ultimate convenience. Take your music with you and play it wherever you want, however you want

We can carry a lifetime’s music in our pocket, and stream millions of tracks from the touch of a button, but often the sound quality is lacking because small speakers built into phones and tablets can’t reproduce the amazing rhythm, bass and detail the artist originally recorded. Your prized music collection and playlists deserve better. Enjoy the benefits of portable music with stunning sound quality too. We have a massive range of wireless speakers and streaming systems that will fit any space in your home, even on the smallest shelf or in the garden. Many modern hi-fi and home cinema amps, components and micro systems have wireless streaming built in. If not, our team can advise you on simple

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“pucks”: add-ons that let you send wireless signals – usually via Bluetooth – straight into your existing hi-fi. Some also feature a built-in premium quality DAC that extracts even more detail from your digital music. If you really want simplicity or a smaller size, we stock a wide range of compact wireless speakers for great sound in a smaller space. There are even weatherproof models for the garden. No hi-fi required – the music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop goes straight to the speakers. Some wireless speakers also link to each other for an instant multiroom music system. Some are even portable and rechargeable, so they can travel... into the garden, to picnics and on holiday.

For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

The wireless speaker system for you Choose a format that works for you and your equipment. Use Apple devices? AirPlay 2 only transmits from Apple portable devices, including iPhone and iPad, plus computers (Mac and PC) running iTunes. It wirelessly streams high-quality files, including Apple Lossless. This second incarnation can link more than one speaker together for true multiroom audio.

Use a mix of devices? Bluetooth is now capable of audio quality to match Apple AirPlay. Bluetooth streaming systems will play from almost every modern smartphone, laptop or tablet (including Apple). For that reason, it’s the best option if you, your family and friends use Android or if they use a mixture of Apple and non-Apple devices. If both your phone/tablet and speaker support aptX (look out for the logo) you’ll get better Bluetooth audio quality (CD-like 16-bit/44.1kHz). Better still, aptX HD supports 24-bit/48kHz wireless streaming, a better match for High-Resolution Audio.

Android all the way? Many of the latest (non-Apple) devices can “cast” via Wi-Fi to stream music to speakers or a music system. The range is bigger than Bluetooth and there’s better support for Hi-Res Audio.

Looking for alternatives? Other wireless music systems – such as Bowers & Wilkins Formation, Sonos, Harman Kardon Citation and Yamaha MusicCast – allow you to stream music to any room in your house, some in high resolution. We’re here to understand your needs and guide you to the systems that best suit your needs.

Left – Wireless speaker: DALI KATCH Above – Wireless speaker: Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation

”For the best Bluetooth audio quality, store music in a High-Resolution format and use devices that support aptX or aptX HD.” James, Manager, Bournemouth store. 21st year of service.

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Smart home audio – more than music

Voice control that lets you command multiroom music, lighting, security and more

Voice-controlled Smart speaker: Harman Kardon Citation 300

“Some speakers and soundbars let you add other compatible wireless speakers at a later date. This allows you to progressively fill your whole house with sound, using the same method of control.” Simon, Deputy Manager, Birmingham store. 13th year of service.

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We’ve long been fans of multiroom audio. Wander from room to room with the same song following you; have a house party with the same track playing everywhere; or let family members play different music in different rooms simultaneously (keeping everyone happy). It’s the ultimate in convenience. The latest, simplest and definitely the most fun way to enjoy multiroom music is with a wireless Smart speaker

that doubles as a voice-controlled Smart home hub. Not only can you stream from popular music services, you can also vocally control Smart home equipment, such as lighting and security. A growing number of amplifiers and AV receivers are also compatible with voice-activated Smart speakers so you can command them just by speaking to Alexa (Amazon), Siri (Apple) or Google.

We recommend you come in to try the various options in-store and hear the quality for yourself. Then pick a Smart ecosystem and let it grow with you. You can add compatible Smart speakers any time to stream wirelessly to more rooms, pair speakers for stereo or even combine them to create a wireless surround sound system.

Voice-controlled Smart speaker: Audio Pro Addon C5A

Works with... Smart options to control your Smart home Amazon Echo (Alexa)

Hive

Logitech

One of the best-known voice assistants, Alexa is built into Amazon Echo speakers and more. Control Smart home devices, order Amazon Prime shopping, play music, request news, weather reports and more!

Hive offers more than home heating control. Smart lighting, home security sensors and Smart plugs all work together – letting you do more, while offering precise control which helps you save on energy bills.

Control all your Smart home devices from a traditional remote control, as well as via app or voice. Tailor the controls to suit your home and your preferences.

Apple HomeKit (Siri)

IFTTT

iPhone users will be familiar with Siri, Apple’s voice assistant. It’s also available at home on Apple TV and the Apple HomePod wireless speaker, as well as iPhones and iPads. Control Smart home products via Siri whether you’re home or away.

Stands for “If This, Then That”. A web service that helps different apps and Smart devices talk to each other to trigger actions. For example, when you’re nearly home (mobile phone geolocation) your oven can start cooking dinner while the lights, heating and music all go on to your favourite settings. An IFTTT command can even tell a Smart tap to fill the bath and to what temperature.

Google Home Say “OK Google” to your Google Home Smart speaker or Android phone to control Smart home devices by voice. Use voice to search websites, choose music and video entertainment, and access popular Google apps. For example, find out the day’s calendar appointments just by asking. Now includes Google Nest security cameras, heating controls, Smart smoke alarms and more.

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Nest

Philips Hue The Hue range features app-controlled lights, colour-change bulbs and LED strips for mood lighting. And now it plays well with others. Link to your alarm clock or security camera to trigger lighting. You can even team Hue lights with Philips Ambilight TVs to immerse yourself further, colouring the whole room to reflect what’s on screen.

Protect your home with Nest devices. A well-thought out suite of products including a Smart smoke alarm, security cameras and a central heating thermostat. They also link to other Smart devices to trigger actions and enable voice control.

Samsung SmartThings Works with a wide range of connected products: monitor your home and take charge of electrical appliances with Samsung devices. It can even detect plumbing leaks and its presence sensor knows whether anyone is home or not. SmartThings is compatible with Zigbee and Z Wave, mesh networks made up of lots of interconnected devices. Because signals only travel short distances, the technology uses very little power, perfect for Smart sensors.

For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Turntables – the vinyl revival

Unique experience, collectability and sound quality? All aboard the vinyl revival

Vinyl is back with a vengeance and we’re delighted. Like many music lovers, we love vinyl. So if you haven’t been (re)converted to it, do visit a Richer Sounds store. Our Experience Rooms allow you to play a record alongside CDs and high-resolution digital files, so you can compare and contrast for yourself. There are so many reasons to love records, but perhaps key among them all is that, even in this world of Hi-Res Audio and wireless streaming, there remains something unique about the warm, dynamic sound and rich, uncompressed detail you get from a good slab of vinyl. Pound for pound, records have a broader dynamic range than most other media – particularly as engineers often master for it differently than they do for a digital format. The recent trend for producing heavyweight 180g vinyl

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means better sound, with physically deeper grooves, which help to give your vinyl a long lifespan too. On top of sheer audio quality, there are other reasons why vinyl is so loved and collectable. The physical format means artwork, liner notes and lyrics can be displayed in all their full-sized glory. Flicking through the sleeves, whether in a record shop or in your own collection, is a joy. Plus, if you know what you’re doing, records are incredibly collectable and can be an investment that potentially increases in value. And, of course, vinyl has played a huge part in waves of music culture – from gathering around the gramophone, to the early seven-inch pop singles, to hip hop mixing and club DJ culture, vinyl has meaning to many that goes beyond the music. Whether you’re a beginner or a committed enthusiast, our team is here to guide you through ways to

bring the analogue sound to your home system. We have a wide range to suit all needs: everything from high-end turntables to models with USB connections so you can rip to digital for convenience as you listen, some even in Hi-Res Audio. Some can even work with your system wirelessly, like the Cambridge Audio Alva, which connects via Bluetooth. More than anything else, the build quality of a turntable has a big impact on sound quality. Our experts can help you find your perfect match, get the right tonearm and cartridge if they’re not included, and offer expert set-up advice: small adjustments like tracking and bias can make a world of difference. Our enthusiasts are here to help you listen to records in superb detail, without fuss. Plus, we have the right phono pre-amps, amps with phono stages built in and interconnect cables too. We have everything you need to reach vinyl nirvana.

We love vinyl At Richer Sounds we genuinely love vinyl. For us it never went away, although we’re over the moon to see its resurgence. We believe vinyl is one of the best ways to get the finest possible sound from your music. That’s why we support it. How do we support it? As well as stocking a wide range of turntables and phono stages, all of our Experience Rooms can set up

comparisons: come in and listen to vinyl vs CD vs Hi-Res Audio digital files and hear the difference for yourself. We celebrate Record Store Day every year, which features exclusive and new vinyl releases from both new and established artists. Our activities in 2019 kicked off with a pop-up stall in London’s famous Berwick Street, delighting vinyl junkies with a

Richer Sounds goodie bag full of treats to celebrate the big day. This was followed by a money-can’t-buy-tickets intimate gig at Camden Town’s legendary venue Dingwalls, headlined by James Morrison and featuring live sets by Richer Unsigned artists, playing for an enthusiastic crowd made up of our lucky VIP Club winners and industry insiders

Left – Turntable: Cambridge Audio Alva TT | Speakers: KEF LS50 Wireless Below – Turntable: Sony PSHX500

We love live music At Richer Sounds we love music. That’s a large part of why Julian Richer started the company back in 1978. Over the years, quite a few bands have started in the back rooms of our stores as many of our team are musicians, including Julian himself. We’re so passionate about music, we’ve set up Richer Unsigned to promote new artists, musicians who don’t have a label deal or are finding it tough to get noticed. Strictly not-for-profit, it’s our way of giving something back: using the Richer Sounds brand and contacts to help musicians get a foot in the door and, of course, bring new fans to new music. See page 118 or visit richerunsigned.com

Right – Gizmo Varillas, performing a stand-out set supporting Rodrigo y Gabriella at our venue Melomania. The London-based singer-songwriter was selected to perform after being featured on our first Record Store Day vinyl release, curated by Alice Levine. gizmovarillas.com

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For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Mini systems – compact yet mighty

Mini systems, DAB radios and wireless speakers: the Smart, feature-packed, space-saving solution

Below: Streaming system: Technics OTTAVA SCC70 Right: Mini system: Cambridge Audio One Speakers: Q Acoustics 3020i

“We have small systems to suit all spaces and all budgets. Come and give them a listen in-store today.” Paul, Manager, Plymouth store. 22nd year of service.

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Sometimes, less is more. There are times when you want simplicity and a smaller size with great sound, rather than the customisable audiophile experience of full-sized separates. For second rooms or smaller spaces, we have some superb options that let you have great sound and exciting features without taking up too much space.

speakers for stereo separation but you can often link a pair to reproduce music in stereo, or buy multiple wireless speakers from the same range and link them for multiroom listening. Some wireless speakers are portable, with rechargeable batteries, so you can take them anywhere and enjoy your music with no wires at all.

The smallest, most discreet option is a standalone wireless speaker. These don’t have a CD slot, they simply do a good job of playing music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet. Some also stream music from your desktop or laptop computer and handle internet radio.

If you want more features, perhaps a CD player and radio, consider a modern mini or micro system. They’re much smaller than a separates system but offer good quality audio and all of the extras you need.

Compact, standalone speakers don’t give you separate left and right

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Some are designed like miniature separate systems, others are one-box wonders. Either way, they look great and often have tricks to fit with your

lifestyle – from an alarm clock for the bedroom to internet radio for the kitchen or office. The latest mini systems are smarter than their predecessors. For example, you can connect your TV for instantly better sound or stream wirelessly from a phone or tablet (either built in or with an optional extra cable or Bluetooth receiver). Some can even act as modular multiroom systems. Buy two or more compatible units to wirelessly stream music round your home, enjoying the same song as you move from lounge to bedroom to kitchen.

For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Headphones – your own private performance

The best headphones offer you intimate, audiophile listening from your hi-fi

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High-quality headphones are now an essential piece of home hi-fi equipment. The best models can rival far pricier stereo speakers and there’s no set-up required. Simply plug them in and enjoy surprisingly spacious sound, an intimate listening experience and, of course, supreme

positioning and stereo separation. It’s like going to a private gig just for you. Come in-store for a listen and prepare to be amazed. Go one step further and add a headphone DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) with a built-in headphone

amp to get the very best listening experience from all digital sources (we recommend Hi-Res Audio) on hi-fi headphones, whether that’s at home, work or on the move. The combination will take your breath away.

Experience better headphones How to pick the best hi-fi headphones for you On-ear or over-ear?

Open-back or closed-back?

Add a headphone DAC

Over-ear headphones are the biggest of the bunch and completely surround your ears. The sound is amazingly immersive, spacious and natural – ideal for audiophile listening. On-ear models are a bit smaller and rest on your ears, so they’re a bit less immersive but more comfy for those that wear glasses. They’re also more portable: the smaller size makes them ideal if you want to enjoy quality hi-fi headphones on the move.

Open-back headphones let air in and out of the cup, increasing your music’s sense of space, but they also let sound in and out so they’re best for quiet rooms. If you plan to use your headphones anywhere noisy (the office, the train, the family) we recommend a closed-back design that shuts you off from the world… you lose a bit of the sense of space, but you won’t hear the people around you and they won’t hear you.

If you want to listen to digital sources on high-end headphones, we highly recommend teaming them with a good Digital-toAnalogue Converter (DAC). Headphone DACs also feature a powerful headphone amp, so you can drive even the most demanding of premium headphones, with more volume and improved detail at lower volumes. Many headphone DACs are portable, so you can use them both at home and on the move.

Left – Closed-back headphones: Sennheiser HD820  |  Headphone amplifier: Sennheiser HDV820 Above – Open-back headphones: Grado GS1000e

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For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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Headphones – your own private performance

The best portable headphones, perfect for enjoying music on the move

Wireless noisecancelling headphones: Sony WH1000XM3 Hi-Res Audio player: Astell&Kern SR15

“True wireless really does mean the freedom of no wires find out more in-store.” Rosie, Field Sales Manager, Brighton store. 3rd year of service.

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Forget the tinny in-ear buds that came free with your phone: they lose detail and let outside noises disturb your listening pleasure. Good portable headphones are a revelation – for sport, commuting, travelling long distances, working in a busy office, holding a phone conversation in a crowded coffee shop or just having the freedom to listen as you move around your home.

If you spend a lot of time on the move, headphones let you enjoy your own personal soundtrack in superb comfort. We have models to suit all budgets. Many are wireless too, so you won’t get in a tangle – look out for aptX for better Bluetooth audio quality, or better still aptX HD which is a better match for high-resolution audio. Most also include microphones and controls, so you can pause your

listening to make and take phone calls in hands-free comfort. Our team are here to talk you through our wide range of portable headphones and help you pick the right pair for you, whether that’s ultra-light sports models or comfy cans that cut out noise on your commute. We can also recommend a portable headphone DAC (see page 33) to make the very most of your digital listening on the move.

Moveable music feast From stunning sports models to travel companions, we have portable headphones for everyone. Wireless freedom We have wireless options across our entire headphone range. They connect to phones, tablets and laptops with ease using Bluetooth. Audio quality is excellent, especially if your headphones and device both have aptX (CD-like 16-bit/44.1kHz) or, better still, aptX HD (a better match for High-Resolution Audio at 24-bit/48kHz). Sling your phone in a pocket or bag, enjoy your music and take calls hands-free. You’ll never suffer tangled cables again.

Perfect for exercise In-ear headphones are ideal for exercise, especially water- and sweat-resistant sports models that are designed to stay put as you move. Well-fitted in-ear headphones can also block a lot of external noise and won’t weigh you down. They’re lightweight, but the sound isn’t.

Commuter companion Active noise-cancelling headphones use clever technology to cut more than 90% of external noise. That makes for superior audio clarity, without turning the volume up. They’re ideal for loud environments, especially intrusive noise like planes, trains and automobiles. You can even get wireless noisecancelling headphones that do away with the tangle of wires. Alternatively, you can get a fair amount of peace and quiet out of regular wireless in-ear headphones, by using specially designed buds that fit snugly in your ears to create noise-isolation, such as our replaceable Comply Tips. Left, top Over-ear headphones: Shure SRH1540 DAC: Chord Mojo Left, bottom In-ear true-wireless headphones: Cambridge Audio Melomania 1

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For a selection of our hi-f‌i brands» See page 18

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SA30 Integrated Amplifier This new flagship amplifier, from Arcam’s HDA range uses Class G amplification to deliver 120W per channel into 8 ohms. Arcam’s Class G is a hybrid type of amplifier topology, using Class A at lower power levels for beautiful detail, then calling on a secondary power supply only when required for amazing control. It boasts a 32-bit ESS Sabre 9038 high-end DAC and features include support for AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Hi-Res Audio as well as Dirac Live state-of-the-art, digital room-correction software to optimise your room setup. This ‘intelligent’ amplifier redefines the feature set of hi-fi amplifiers

Bringing music & movies to life

Arcam was established in 1976 by two Cambridge University engineering students with a shared passion for music and electronics. The company continues to combine this expertise with audio passion. With such a strong engineering pedigree, it’s unsurprising the results often break new ground, such as the first offboard DAC in 1988, the first British Dolby-S cassette deck in 1992 and the first hi-fi DAB separate in 1999. Arcam’s new HDA range of separates sees its first new fascia design in 19 years, and is billed as its best-performing range of audio products yet.

AVR390 Dolby Atmos AV receiver This entry-level 4K ready receiver from British audio perfectionists Arcam would sit far higher up in anyone else’s range. Using top-quality components, it sounds sublime with music and movies alike. Although its 7x 60W per channel may seem modest, Arcam delivers this power both faithfully and reliably. The AVR390 has enough punch to deliver with hard-hitting action movies as well as being smooth and refined when needed for all genres of music. Connectivity includes seven HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, with all mod cons, plus an array of other digital and analogue inputs. The third, independent HDMI output means you can drive not just audio but also video in a second room. Meanwhile Dirac Live room-correction software built-in allows you to tailor the receiver to sound brilliant in your home setup. “An excellent AV receiver, with a surround sound performance that is superior to any other model in its price range.” – AVForums

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

Sound that feels just right Drumfire (above) Multiroom speaker

In 1978, Audio Pro started building powered speakers with a single ambition in mind: to give you the best sound quality at the best price possible. Today, you will find Audio Pro in 45 countries on four continents. And the same ambition is still the cornerstone in everything they do: small powered speakers with big sound.

Today’s Audio Pro speakers offer outstanding, award-winning, hi-fi sound quality, with modern features including multiroom connectivity and easy access to wireless streaming services, teamed with elegant industrial design that won’t date.

Addon C3 Multiroom speaker with battery

Addon C5 Multiroom speaker

Addon C10 Multiroom speaker

Small in size, big on sound, the C3 delivers astonishing audio quality for its compact size, with 5W per channel and a 15W woofer. It’s portable, with outstanding battery life (15 hours at half volume, 9 hours at full whack) for Bluetooth listening anywhere. At home, it connects to others for a multiroom system and plays beautifully with popular streaming services. AirPlay and Spotify Connect help make it effortless.

Bigger and beefier than the C3, if you don’t need a rechargeable battery for portability then this awardwinning model is hard to fault on sound quality, features and value for money. It offers 8W per channel and a 25W woofer to give powerful, room-filling sound. Bluetooth 4.0 and Apple AirPlay, plus support for popular services, make for easy streaming around the home – team it with other Audio Pro speakers for a wireless multiroom system.

If Goldilocks discovered the C-series then the C10 would be the daddy bear: it packs a powerful punch with 80W of digital amplification, easily filling larger rooms with dynamic music. It supports popular streaming services and offers Bluetooth 4.0, Apple AirPlay, Spotify Connect for multiroom streaming, all controlled via a simple app. If you want a bigger sound then this is the wireless speaker for you.

Available in black, white or grey.

Available in black, white or grey.

Available in black, white or grey.

“Portability, multiroom skills and excellent sound quality in an impressive package.” – What Hi-Fi?

“No multiroom system makes better sound-per-pound sense than the Audio Pro.” – What Hi-Fi?

“The C10 is another class-leader from a company on a roll.” – What Hi-Fi?

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Sometimes nothing beats loud. Drumfire delivers a pure, bold sound with super crisp details. You will physically feel every little part of your music. But loud isn’t everything – even listening at low levels, Drumfire will make your music come alive. As the Drumfire is a multiroom speaker, group two of them in a left / right set-up and the concert will be on stage in your home. This speaker will fill large rooms easily, and knock your socks off. “The biggest and the best of Audio Pro’s multi-room speaker range does not disappoint.” – What Hi-Fi?

We have the knowledge on multiroom streaming» See pages 22-23

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World class hi-fi, DACs, CD players and amplifiers Audiolab was formed in the early 1980s and has since become renowned for its quality hi-fi separates. It earned worldwide acclaim with the 8000A integrated stereo amplifier, a classic ‘step up’ from the budget models of the time. This became one of the most successful British amps ever made and was joined by a range of hi-fi separates.

Its ethos is one of utilising only the best components, giving a crisp, transparent sound with innovative, performance-led design. This tradition of excellence continues with the new 6000 series, a full-width component range that brings the company’s award-winning, high-performance audio technologies to a lower price point. 6000N Play Network music player This talented wireless audio streamer features DTS Play-Fi, a premium app that brings together Sirius XM internet radio and popular services such as Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and Amazon Music. It also streams from NAS drives and PCs with DLNA support. It uses the same top-quality ESS Sabre32 DAC as the 6000A, compatible with Hi-Res Audio files for the smoothest and most natural sound available. Add other Play-Fi devices for multiroom music from a single app. Available in black or silver.

6000A Stereo amplifier This is Audiolab’s first amplifier to incorporate Bluetooth aptX and a high-end DAC, giving you digital inputs in addition to analogue. It also boasts an integrated phono stage. From vinyl records to digital streaming, the 6000A will make the most of all manner of sources. The power amp section is a new-generation design evolved from the highly rated 8300A, with discrete class A/B circuitry delivering 50W per channel. Available in black or silver. “A hugely capable stereo amplifier that’s good enough to worry the best in class.” – What Hi-Fi?

6000CDT CD transport This dedicated CD transport has the same slot-loading mechanism as the pricier 8300CD. It uses a read-ahead digital buffer to reduce disc-reading errors, so it can play many scratched CDs unreadable by conventional mechanisms. The digital clock is controlled by a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator to minimise jitter. And shielding has been designed to ensure a flawless digital signal reaches the accompanying DAC. Naturally, the DAC in the Audiolab 6000A is a perfect match. Available in black or silver.

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

Experience the difference AudioQuest has been the largest cable supplier to the high-end specialist market for many years. This success has been possible because of the proven performance of its products. AudioQuest’s unique and free ‘demonstration kit’ proves how much better good cables sound. Richer Sounds and AudioQuest are so certain that you’ll be able to see and hear the improvement good quality interconnects and speaker cables give, we’ve come up with an unbeatable

offer: take home an AudioQuest demonstration kit after a consultation with one of our in-store colleagues. Test the cables and interconnects on your own equipment – with speaker, analogue audio, HDMI, Ethernet, digital audio and USB cables included – and if this real-world test doesn’t convince you of the importance of good cables... well, we’ll be very surprised! And, of course, you’re under no obligation to buy any cables at the end of the test – although we think you’ll want to.

DragonFly Black (above) Digital-to-analogue converter This little USB digital-to-analogue converter promises to give your digital music a makeover, finding undiscovered detail, separation and clarity that your device’s built-in DAC just can’t muster. It uses a high-spec 32-bit ESS Sabre 9010 chip, better known for its use in high-end AV equipment, to provide stunning realism and dynamics. With lower power consumption than before, the DragonFly Black offers an instant sonic upgrade to phone, tablet and laptop listening. iPhone not included. Apple Lighting to USB adapter sold separately. “AudioQuest has transformed the DragonFly into its best DAC to date.” – What Hi-Fi?

Rocket 11 Speaker cable Surprisingly affordable but by no means basic, Rocket 11 is a high-performance, low-noise, easy-to-use speaker cable designed for both full-range and bi-wire applications. Its semi-solid construction keeps strands together in bundles to reduce distortion, while twisted-pair geometry provides lower inductance, greater clarity, and superior bass-to-treble frequency extension. Available by the metre. “Clean, precise and fluid sound, with excellent compatibility.” – What Hi-Fi?

Forest HDMI 1m HDMI cable A high-performance, high-speed, precision-engineered HDMI cable that caters for your current and future needs, the Forest is a true standout. Solid conductors reduce distortion and jitter to minimize audio video sync issues. A 0.5% silver coating helps ensure a clean, high-quality signal, so high definition images retain their sharpness and clarity. Foamed-polyethylene insulation guards against interference. The HDMI cable supports HD, 3D, 4K and 8K resolutions, Ethernet and Audio Return Channel, ensuring it will serve you faithfully for years to come. Also available in 1.5m, 2m, 3m or 5m lengths. “A truly fine cable in just about every sense of the word.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

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Rediscover Music With Edge Do you remember the first time you became obsessed with an album and kept it on repeat for weeks? Or the first time you loved a track so much you had to play it at full volume? Cambridge Audio’s flagship hi-fi system, Edge, is built in celebration of those moments. Stunning home audio that gives you the purest possible sound, a ‘British’ sound, where nothing is added and nothing is taken away. It’s just you and your music. Meanwhile, a major update to its CX Series integrates improved support for Hi-Res Audio as well as refreshing its looks with sleek new industrial design.

Edge A Integrated amplifier Edge A celebrates musicality. Riffs, phrases, percussive rolls – take in every detail of your music thanks to its dynamic setup. Effortlessly powerful, but with incredible depth, the overall sound is breathtaking – like the band is playing right in front of you. “You’d have to spend considerably more to match or better the quality on offer here, making this nothing short of a conspicuous bargain.” – Hi-Fi News

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

Edge NQ Pre-amplifier & network player

Edge W Power amplifier

With a revolutionary preamp circuit board that reduces interference and an incredibly clean signal path, Edge NQ plays your favourite music with astonishing depth. Stream, cast, plug-in and play to enjoy every note in perfect clarity.

Edge W is made to be played loud. When you do turn it up, expect nothing but dynamic and punchy sound that captures all the musicality of your songs. With just 14 hand-picked components, Edge W has one of the cleanest signal paths available. It delivers breath-taking, unadulterated British Sound: nothing added, nothing taken away.

“It is a top-class streamer and a rather fine analogue preamplifier too.” – What Hi-Fi?

“Next to what we would consider the Ferrari of studio amplification, Edge holds its own beautifully. Transients feel faster and it wipes the floor on a looks front.” – Richard Wilkinson, Mixer, Engineer, Producer

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

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British Sound personified

Listen first, measure later

Keep the signal path short

Legendary audio engineering

The physical construction of the Edge and CX Series 2 is driven by an industrial, functional and minimalistic approach. Their pareddown design removes buttons and switches for a clean, pure aesthetic that mirrors its clean, pure sound.

The ‘listen first, measure later’ ethos means blindauditioning all price and performance levels and only selecting those components that sound the most dynamic, give the greatest presence and offer a revealing clarity; in short, the most musical.

Cambridge Audio’s engineers worked frantically to remove unnecessary components from the signal path, ensuring nothing is added to the music and what you hear is a pure and unfiltered rendition of what the creators intended.

Since 1968 Cambridge Audio has been driven by a simple belief; that music should always sound amazing.

CXA81 Integrated amplifier & DAC Alva TT Direct-drive turntable with Bluetooth aptX HD The world’s first Hi-Res wireless turntable, the Alva TT can convert the signal from your vinyl into a 24-bit/48kHz aptX HD Bluetooth transmission, so you can enjoy it via any hi-fi or active speakers. Or listen wired via any system thanks to the built-in phono stage. Build quality, including British-made tonearm, is top-notch too.

Class-leading sound quality from an 80 watt amp: thanks to its oversized toroidal transformer, it’s powerful enough for the largest rooms and the most powerhungry speakers. Detail is superb, with a built-in ESS DAC ensuring you get the best from digital as well as analogue sources. aptX HD Bluetooth is built in for ultimate streaming convenience. Available in lunar grey.

“A great record player, a brilliant hi-res wireless source and a genuine world-first.” – TrustedReviews

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We have the knowledge on turntables» See pages 28-29

“Sets a new baseline for integrated amps at this price.” – What Hi-Fi?

CX Series 2 The Sound of Progress

CXA61 Integrated amplifier & DAC

CXN V2 Pre-amplifier & network player

CXC CD transport

The Cambridge Audio CXA60 won multiple What Hi-Fi? Product of the Year awards, so it’s a tough act to follow. But the 60 watt CXA61 pulls it off brilliantly with its new built-in aptX HD Bluetooth, asynchronous USB input and reference standard ESS Sabre ES9010K2M DAC ensuring it will make the very most of all digital sources, both wired and wireless.

This update to the award-winning Cambridge Audio CXN brings a faster processor and built-in support for Google Chromecast, which is now accessible alongside Spotify Connect and TIDAL. With twin Wolfson WM8740 DACs, one for each channel, all digital sources benefit from a more precise and accurate sound quality with improved stereo imaging, perfect for making the most of Hi-Res Audio.

Designed specifically to do one thing only. The CXC spins CDs and retrieves the audio data with perfect precision so you can hear things that you’ve never heard before in tracks you’ve heard 100 times. And thanks to its all-digital outputs it works in perfect harmony with the CXA61 and CXA81 integrated amplifiers.

Available in lunar grey.

Available in black, silver or lunar grey. “Few rivals have the resolution to challenge the CXA61.” – What Hi-Fi?

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“A great streamer just got even better.” – What Hi-Fi?

Available in black, silver or lunar grey. “If you’ve already got a good DAC, the Cambridge CXC transport is a no-brainer.” – What Hi-Fi?

We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

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KATCH ONE TV soundbar A new soundbar sibling for the award-winning DALI KATCH speaker, which combines superior audio reproduction with a fresh look. With an impressive ten built-in drivers, it has ample moving surface area. When combined with the 4 x 50 watt amplifier, it has the power to deliver the audio pressure needed even in bigger living rooms. Also taking its design queues from the portable KATCH speaker, it has a curvy cabinet and mounting options to complement modern interiors. You can even hang it from the wall on leather straps. Available in Ivory White, Iron Black (featured) or Mountain White.

Designed in admiration of music

DALI (Danish Audiophile Loudspeaker Industries) has been creating loudspeakers in Scandinavia since 1983. Its speakers offer outstanding performance and competitive prices to suit every taste, from the costconscious SPEKTOR series, to the exceptional flagship EPICON range.

OBERON 5 Speakers

OPTICON 2 Speakers

RUBICON 2 Speakers

Featuring a large cabinet and twin bass woofer units, these award-winning speakers suit medium-to-large rooms. With a maximum power handling of 150 watts, they’re also ideal front speakers in a home cinema system. The drivers’ SMC (Soft Magnetic Compound) disc magnet system provides accurate control and ultra-low levels of distortion, while a new, ultra-light tweeter delivers a sound that’s closer than ever to the original. A slim footprint and clean lines complete the bill.

These mid-sized, stand-mounted speakers are designed and manufactured in-house: they’re hand-assembled and tested in Denmark. The 6.5" woofer is matched with a large 28mm soft dome tweeter to bring out every detail in the audio signal, making the OPTICON 2 a true two-way compact performer. Teamed with its unique SMC magnet motor system to remove distortion, expect a dynamic, well-defined and powerful audio reproduction from this loudspeaker.

Breathtaking stand-mounted speakers that deliver a sound that belies their size. At their heart you’ll find an SMC (Soft Magnetic Compound) magnet system. This highly specialised feature is designed to provide the most accurate speaker control and ultra-low levels of distortion. Featuring low-loss, wood fibre woofers based on DALI’s top-of-the-range EPICON speakers and a soft dome tweeter, RUBICON 2 delivers a sound so accurate that it can be truly classed as ‘reference’ grade.

Available in black, white, light oak or dark walnut.

Available in black, white or walnut.

Available in gloss black, gloss white or walnut.

DALI is driven by a raw passion for music and its honest reproduction in the domestic environment. Its main objective: to develop and refine new technologies to increase

“These superb floorstanders are right up there with the best.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

the realism of the home entertainment experience. A key contributing factor to its acclaimed audio prowess is the quality of its exclusive drive units, all of which are designed and developed in-house. The DALI product range shares key technologies, and encompasses hi-fi, home cinema and wireless uses – with each delivering an honest, nuanced and richly detailed listening experience.

“An expressive and enthusiastic listen with little to fault, If you hadn’t guessed, we’re big fans.” – What Hi-Fi?

DRA-800H Network stereo receiver The emphasis is on a stunning stereo performance with this, Denon’s first two-channel receiver, exclusive to Richer Sounds. It delivers stereo brilliance, with 100W per channel from a high-current, custom-designed amp that uses a discrete output for dynamic, low distortion sound. The power transformer has OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) windings for smooth, effortless power. Other features are state-of-the-art, including voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri devices, HEOS multiroom capabilities, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi supporting popular streaming services, and HDMI switching with 4K and HDR support.

Passion, artistry, technology Denon is on a constant quest to create products that deliver enjoyment to others. Passion, artistry and technology are more than buzzwords – they are part of the quintessential philosophy behind everything the company does. These three elements and decades of innovation and engineering excellence have shaped its entire culture.

Every detail of a Denon product is crafted around these elements with a single goal in mind: to maximise the entertainment experience. Denon’s 100-year history of delivering powerful audio and visual experiences, including many world firsts, signposts its path into the future. Its legacy of firsts inspires and fuels its quest for perfection.

D-M41DAB Mini system

AVR-X2600H Dolby Atmos AV receiver

AVR-X3600H Dolby Atmos AV receiver

Denon makes excellent separates but has also long been the go-to brand for mini systems. This, its latest, squeezes all that hi-fi heritage into a small box and then throws in Bluetooth connectivity so you can listen to digital music from your portable devices just as easily as CDs, DAB, DAB+ and FM radio. Denon’s “sound first” design uses simple signal paths and quality components to deliver a superb sound from this small system.

Denon’s home cinema receivers just get better and better. Pure Direct circuitry and high-grade audio components give a detailed and lifelike sound with ultra-low levels of distortion, marking this out as a discerning choice for music and movie soundtrack lovers. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and DTS Neural:X deliver cinematic sound if your system features upward-firing speakers, while Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X make for immersive sound without them. Support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG and eARC handle video brilliantly. It has all the connections you could ask for and handles streaming and multiroom too. Truly brilliant.

9.2 channels for a wide range of surround sound and multiroom options. Choose between 7.2.2 or 5.2.4 Dolby Atmos speaker configurations with two or four ceiling speakers. Alternatively, stick with 5.2.2 and power a second pair of speakers in another room or bi-amp your main pair of speakers. As your system grows, so this Denon AVR grows with it. Its punchy 105W per channel can drive a wide range of speakers, even in larger rooms. Meanwhile it has all mod cons including Hi-Res Audio support, HEOS multiroom, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming, and voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri devices. The best just got better.

“If you have the budget and desire for a serious home cinema, this Denon receiver demands your attention.” – What Hi-Fi?

“If you have a grand to spend on an AV receiver, Denon should still be at the top of your list.” – What Hi-Fi?

“Denon has bettered itself in a field it was already leading.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

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Aria 906 Speakers These gorgeous compact speakers are equally happy on a bookshelf or a stand. Their subtly curved cabinets look great. And they sound superb, thanks to an innovative choice of material for the woofer cones. The material is flax, chosen for its stiffness and lightness, delivering an authentic sound with low colouration. Meanwhile their inverted dome tweeters give precise, detailed highs. Available in black or walnut. “If you value standmounters with scale, power and refinement, you won’t fin better for the money.” – What Hi-Fi?

Listen beyond Focal strives to create sound equipment that honours the artist’s musical intentions and empowers the listener to feel a new dimension of music. Based in St. Etienne, France, Focal has been creating benchmark acoustic equipment since 1979. Speaker driver innovations, such as the inverted dome tweeter and flax cone technology, ensure sound quality is second to none.

Focal’s audio signature, skilfully combining musicality and dynamic performance, is the result of many years of research and development. Using the highest quality components, coupled with an exquisite build, results in a range of products that not only look outstanding but sound amazing too.

Aria 926 Speakers Audiophile floorstanding speakers that don’t break the bank. The three-way design uses a flax ‘F cone’ for midrange and two for bass. Naturally lightweight flax fibre is sandwiched between two thin layers of glass fibre to create speaker cones that are stiff but light, for a natural sound, rich mids and tight bass. They’re teamed with an inverted dome tweeter with Poron suspension for a smoother sound. Available in black or walnut.

Sib Evo 5.1.2 speaker package This may look like any other compact subwoofer/satellite speaker package but it packs a brilliant secret: the front left and right speakers are topped with upwards-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos 3D sound. Home cinema surround sound gains an extra dimension without impacting on your living room in any way. Dolby Atmos has been hailed as the greatest advance in surround sound for 20 years, so don’t miss out!

“Whether your audio source is 3D or flat, this package will deliver it with control, clarity and a sense of fun.” – Home Cinema Choice “A great solution for those looking for effective Dolby Atmos in an easy-toaccommodate 5.1.2 speaker package.” – TrustedReviews

Best Product 2016-2017

Chora Speaker Chora is a new generation of affordable, high-end speakers replacing the multi-award-winning Chorus range. They’re made in France and feature unique technology including Slatefiber, a new thermoplastic polymer with nonwoven recycled carbon fibres for greater damping, rigidity and lightness – the essential elements of a good driver. Focal’s signature aluminium/magnesium tweeters give a perfectly rendered treble. Sound reproduction is balanced and rich, with minimal colouration and plenty of dynamics. The new range consists of (left to right) the Chora 806 bookshelf or standmount and the larger Chora 816 and Chora 826 floorstanding loudspeakers. Available in black, light wood or dark wood.

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F501 Speakers The floorstanding F501’s innovation starts by placing the titanium tweeter in the heart of the multifibre woofer. Using its proprietary IsoFlare waveguide, high frequency sound blends seamlessly with the rest of the mix, giving a wide and natural soundstage from a single point source. Innovation continues right to the bottom, with a downwards-firing bass port and BassTrax Traxtrix Diffuser, making for perfect room integration. Available in black oak, dark oak and piano gloss black or white. “Remarkably well realised in every respect, the F501s are serious contenders.” – What Hi-Fi?

200 years’ experience It’s rare that you see a brand new speaker brand, let alone rate it highly, but Fyne Audio is an exception. This Scottish-based loudspeaker manufacturer might be new, but its seven-strong management team brings an enviable pedigree of more than 200 years of audio industry experience.

A fresh start means fresh ideas, which is why the speakers are packed with innovations. Since coming together to form Fyne Audio, its founders have been busy honing their existing skills and developing technologies to ensure that it can offer best-in-class performance at all price points.

F500 (left) Speakers Innovative technology taken from the award-winning F501s help these standmount speakers deliver stunning sound quality from compact dimensions. The innovation starts at the top: the titanium tweeter is placed within the throat of the woofer. Using Fyne’s proprietary IsoFlare waveguide, the high frequency sound blends seamlessly with the rest of the mix, giving a wide and natural soundstage from a single point source. Fluted rubber around the multifibre cone, where it joins the aluminium chassis, damps unwanted resonances for a naturalsounding mid-range. Finally a downward-firing bass port with integrated BassTrax diffuser makes for punchy lower frequencies and unfussy positioning. Available in black oak, dark oak and piano gloss black or white.

richersounds.com

F300 Speakers

F302 Speakers

These standmounted speakers are compact and bursting with music. The pin-sharp polyester tweeters sit at the top, fitted within curved baffles to help enhance staging for a bright, open sound. Multifibre woofers deliver natural-sounding mids balanced with powerful bass, with FyneFlute rubber surrounds damping unwanted resonances. Brackets pre-fitted to the rear make it easy to flush-mount the speakers to a wall: great for stereo or surround.

Superb, affordable floorstanders with breathtaking detail. Placing the tweeter right at the top of the speaker and fitting it within a curved baffle helps enhance sound staging for a bright, open sound that spreads generously. The natural-sounding woofers, featuring computerassisted FyneFlute technology, and bass-friendly floorstanding design offer superb balance for a deeper, more accurate and richer sound.

Available in light oak, walnut or black ash.

“Uncomplicated in design, their performance sets the F302s apart as immediate class-leaders.” – What Hi-Fi?

Available in black ash, walnut or light oak.

We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

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KEF Speakers LS50 Mini Monitors This mini monitor delivers a rich, multi-dimensional soundstage that’s out of all proportion to its size. Patent-pending acoustic designs and state-of-the-art technologies from KEF’s latest flagship Blade loudspeaker provide the ultimate studio experience – even in the smallest of spaces. Using the latest Uni-Q driver, specifically designed for this model, to place both drivers on the same axis, the LS50 radiates an extremely large listening sweet spot and delivers a remarkably fast, clean sound. The results are effortlessly natural and accurate. Available in high-gloss black or high-gloss white. “Simply brilliant.” – What Hi-Fi?

Obsessed with High-Resolution Kent-based KEF was founded in 1961 by Raymond Cooke OBE, an ex-BBC electrical engineer. He was keen to experiment with new materials and technologies to create products with superior acoustic quality that could reproduce recordings as natural as the original performance. From the very beginning, the inventiveness of KEF loudspeakers was undeniable. Audiophiles around the world revere its innovative, high-performance speakers.

LS50 Wireless Wireless music system

LSX Wireless music system

Q950 Speakers

KEF has taken the highly acclaimed LS50 speakers and integrated an amplifier, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, plus Ethernet, USB, optical and analogue inputs. It even has high-resolution 192kHz/24 bit DACs built into each speaker. Clean, effortless 200W amplification for the woofers plus 30W for the top end ensures there’s plenty of oomph. Stream music over Wi-Fi or aptX Bluetooth using the dedicated app, which works beautifully with your digital music collection and popular services, including TIDAL and Spotify Connect. Or connect other sources to its myriad inputs. The LS50 Wireless may look like a pair of speakers but it’s a complete system in itself.

Essentially the award-winning LS50 Wireless system shrunk down in size and specs, and at half the price. It includes Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2 and aptX Bluetooth connectivity plus optical and analogue inputs. The co-axial Uni-Q woofers and tweeters get 70W and 30W of amplification respectively per channel. A dedicated sub output lets you connect an active subwoofer if you want a bigger sound. Unlike most active speakers, the LSXs are truly wireless. This means there’s no physical link between the speakers (up to 24-bit/48kHz). For Hi-Res Audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, simply use the supplied linking cable. LSX is easy to control and a dedicated app handles all your local and online music streaming.

Standing at the top of the new, improved Q Series, the mighty Q950 floorstander is a commanding performer. KEF’s famous Uni-Q driver array at the top puts the tweeter in the middle of a woofer, creating a single point source for sound across all frequencies. The Uni-Q driver uses technologies developed in KEF’s high-end Concept Blade speakers for lifelike dynamics, low levels of distortion and attention to detail not usually seen in speakers at this level. Three more 20cm aluminium woofers add bass depth. The result is a broad, cohesive sound over a glorious, wide listening area.

Available in gloss black / blue, gloss white / copper or titanium grey / red. “All the performance of a top traditional system in a smart package.” – What Hi-Fi?

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“Of all art, music is the most indefinable and the most expressive, the most insubstantial and the most immediate, the most transitory and the most imperishable,” said Cooke. “When KEF returns music to its rightful habituation, they aim to do so in the most natural way they can... without drama, without exaggeration, without artifice.”

Available in white, maroon, olive, blue or black. “A neat, compact and entertaining all-in-one system of rare sonic quality.” – What Hi-Fi?

We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

Available in satin black or satin white.

Melody X (M-CR612) Streaming mini system This compact system puts all your music in one place beautifully. Its CD player, DAB and FM tuners, and analogue and digital inputs are teamed with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for a wide range of streaming options. Apple AirPlay 2 is now standard and Amazon Music, Spotify, TIDAL, Napster and Deezer are all on board. Plus it’s compatible with the HEOS system for multiroom music. Add an Alexa or Google Home device and you can control it with your voice too. Available in black or silver / gold. “A remarkably flexible – and superb sounding – compact system.” – EISA.eu

Because music matters True hi-fi is about recreating the magic of a performance, experiencing music as the artist intended. Specifications and technical accomplishment count for nothing unless a product can unlock the power, excitement and emotion of music. Marantz’s heritage of technical excellence means it can create components to communicate the scale, timbre, pitch and dynamics, in fact, the very essence of a recording.

From compact systems to serious separates, Marantz has a reputation for faithful sound reproduction that will satisfy any music lover. The Marantz team has only one philosophy: “Because music matters”.

NR1510 AV receiver

PM6006 UK Edition Stereo amplifier

CD6006 UK Edition CD player

Enjoy room-friendly home cinema sound with this half-height receiver. Sound is powerful and clean, with an advanced 32-bit DSP processing system that supports a wide range of sound formats, including Hi-Res Audio. Video-wise it’s adept at handling 4K sources with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG, plus 4K HDMI pass through. Meanwhile as a hi-fi it offers digital and analogue inputs plus dedicated phono stage for a turntable. Streaming is covered with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, including AirPlay 2 and support for services such as Spotify Connect. HEOS offers multiroom audio. You can even control it with your voice from Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri devices.

Award-winning performance: separate pre and power amp sections built with discrete components deliver uncommon clarity and detail, while its toroidal power supply and large capacitors serve up an expansive 45W sound. This UK special edition sees the design revisited by Marantz’s audio tuning team, with components improved throughout to deliver even better sound. It’s been upgraded for peak current at the amplifier stage, making it possible to refine the sound and provide much more detail.

Marantz has taken its multi award-winning CD6006 and created a special version exclusively for the UK. The original already delivered a stunning performance at a keen price, not just getting the very most from CDs but also featuring an iPhone-friendly USB and premium Cirrus Logic CS4398 24-bit/192kHz DAC, perfect to make the most of Hi-Res Audio files. The circuitry of this UK version has been carefully tweaked, improving components throughout, to deliver an even better performance.

“Marantz took the opportunity to fine-tune an already fine amplifier and has come up trumps yet again.” – What Hi-Fi?

“Marantz’s latest CD player extends the brand’s long-running golden streak.” – What Hi-Fi?

richersounds.com

We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

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QX-2 Speakers These combine traditional Mission design, such as inverse driver geometry, with brand new technology. The new ring dome tweeter design offers musical detail without distortion, the seam-free woofer delivers clarity, and a broad frequency response means surprisingly deep bass from a standmount speaker. Their engaging sound, sleek good looks and quality build mean the QX-2 have quickly built a reputation as the ones to beat.

Music Is The Master; Technology Is The Slave Mission has built a world-class reputation for advanced audio design since the company was founded in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire in 1977. Its engineering-led approach to product development has resulted in some of the most popular and iconic loudspeakers ever devised. Three things characterise Mission speakers. First, the cabinets and drive units use innovative materials and sport a distinctive, modern appearance. Second, the sound they produce is fast, detailed and engaging. Third, they deliver excellent sonic and material value for money. Mission continues to stretch the boundaries of what can be achieved at specific price points, pioneering technologies to create fresh, new designs.

Available in black wood, walnut pearl or rosewood. “Hugely enjoyable speakers that stand out among the competition.” – What Hi-Fi?

LX-2 Speakers The award-winning LX-2s are punchy, dynamic and, above all, fun to listen to. Their pared-down design uses Mission’s traditional inverted driver layout (woofer above tweeter) to help equalise the acoustic distance to the listener, for incredible realism. The bass ports deliver an even sound with a full bass, even at lower volumes, and help improve the speakers’ efficiency which means that you can use them with lower powered mini systems: Mission recommends a minimum rating of 25W. Available in black or walnut.

“These entertaining speakers are among the best budget options out there.” – What Hi-Fi?

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A fridge and microwave to help a homeless family in temporary accommodation. Help for an elderly lady to pay an unexpectedly large gas bill after a cold winter.

Bronze 2 Speakers The class leader. C-CAM gold dome tweeters offer detail and smoothness, even at high volumes where inferior designs begin to distort. The C-CAM woofer is larger than the one fitted to the Bronze 1 and it’s a difference you can hear – especially with bass-rich music. Match with a good quality amp and you can expect an effortless sound with the talent to make all types of music sound ‘real’. It even offers bi-wiring, perfect for AV receivers that offer bi-amping. Despite being a standmount speaker, the Bronze 2 packs a dynamic punch perfect for small to medium-sized rooms. Or team with a subwoofer for home cinema in larger rooms. Available in black, white or walnut. “These Monitor Audios sail through the test. They have delicacy when required and handle dynamics deftly.” – What Hi-Fi?

Designed for sound By consistently refining and applying its technologies, Monitor Audio has created a range of stereo and surround speakers known for ultra high-quality sound. This British hi-fi loudspeaker specialist, formed in 1972, is one of the world’s foremost experts in developing metal dome drivers for speakers. Metal is unique in its amazing properties for lifelike sound reproduction when treated correctly.

The Ceramic-Coated Aluminium Magnesium (C-CAM) metal alloy driver cones used throughout are light, rigid and strong, so they reproduce both delicate atmospherics and dynamic bass. As they all share tonal consistency, Monitor Audio speakers may also be mixed for the perfect aesthetic and sonic result in any environment.

Mass 5.1 5.1 speaker package Compact and unobtrusive but full of energy, this is the ideal home cinema speaker package for smaller rooms. Soft-dome tweeters give a smooth and detailed top end while Monitor Audio’s MMP II (Metal Matrix Polymer) cones offer exceptional accuracy for clear speech and precise special effects. The matching subwoofer’s 8" MMP II driver delivers a taut, powerful bass. The satellite speakers are easy to place and also work with optional wall mounts or floor stands. Available in Midnight Black (featured) or Mist White.

Silver 200 Speakers Outstanding, award-winning all-rounders that deliver incredible sound from a surprisingly narrow footprint. These compact, floorstanding, two-and-a-half-way speakers have been engineered to deliver a big, beautiful, audiophile sound from a smaller box. The speaker features a pair of Monitor Audio’s unique 5.25" C-CAM drivers for mids and bass, each in separate acoustic chambers for differential tuning. High notes are handled by a new gold dome tweeter, carefully engineered to minimise distortion for an immaculate performance. Available in gloss black (featured), white, natural oak, black oak or walnut. “If you’re looking for great all-rounders, this Monitor Audio pair ticks all the boxes.” – What Hi-Fi?

Gold 100 Speakers

Gold 300 (above) Speakers

Monitor Audio Gold speakers, now in their fifth generation, represent a reference standard in sound and style. Cutting-edge technology derived from the Platinum II range keeps these speakers at the top of their class. MPD (Micro Pleated Diaphragm) tweeters deliver exceptional detail, backed up by lifelike mid-range and bass from the hybrid woofer cones. At just 195mm wide, they’re perfect stereo speakers in a smaller room or satellite speakers in a high-end home cinema setup.

Standing tall at the top of the Gold range, these deliver powerful, immersive sound, a speaker designed to last a lifetime. An MPD tweeter is teamed with twin 8" woofers for effortless power and dynamic range. The woofer cones use RDT II (Rigid Diaphragm Technology), a sandwich of Nomex and woven carbon fibre, for the ideal balance of lightness and rigidity. They respond with alacrity to every note, for a clean, tight bass that’s as crisp as it is powerful. They’re ideal for larger rooms and superb as front speakers in a high-end home cinema system.

Available in piano gloss black, satin white (featured), piano ebony or dark walnut.

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Available in piano gloss black, satin white, dark walnut or piano ebony (featured).

We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

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Uniti Atom Compact streaming system Enjoy as a standalone system — just add speakers — or as part of a seamless multiroom audio set-up. It attracts your attention with a full-colour display with rich images of artwork and content, input information, music metadata and more – the display is even fitted with proximity sensors, so it ‘wakes’ as you approach. Sound quality is really where it shines, however: a powerful 40W amp, great connectivity and the same streamer as Naim’s flagship ND 555, with effortless app control, support for Hi-Res Audio and direct access to Spotify Connect, TIDAL and thousands of internet radio stations. “Naim has nailed the crossover between lifestyle product and premium hi-fi... you need only attach a suitably talented pair of speakers.” – What Hi-Fi?

High-fidelity wireless music British audio pioneer Naim Audio is world-renowned for products conceived, designed and engineered entirely in service of the sound, revealing a pure experience of music that is as close as possible to its original performance. Finely tuned by specialist engineers in England, its wireless music systems combine Naim’s expertise in streaming, amplification and speaker technology to deliver an exceptional quality in sound.

performance boost. They feature Naim’s unique music streaming platform, developed by 25 engineers over three years, for the very best performance whether playing your own digital music collection, a world of internet radio, or music streaming services such as TIDAL and Spotify. This acclaimed innovation is only found in Naim music streaming products, all the way up to the £20,000 flagship ND 555 network player.

This new generation of streaming systems go further, with upgraded hardware and software for a significant

Mu-so 2nd Generation Wireless music system

Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation Wireless music system

Everything you need in one box: a world-class streamer with Hi-Res Audio support, powerful speaker system, punchy processing, flexible connectivity and multiroom ability. This sequel features upgraded speakers, co-developed with its audio partner Focal, and a powerful new multi-core processor. Together these deliver a higher level of sonic precision: you’ll hear detail that just gets lost with other speakers. It plays nicely with AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth™, as well as Google Chromecast and Naim’s own multiroom streaming app for iOS and Android devices.

The Mu-so’s award-winning smaller sibling also gets a complete revamp. This compact cube contains everything you could need as a standalone music streamer or part of a multiroom system. Extensive software and hardware upgrades deliver a significant performance boost. 300W of music power and new speaker drivers, optimised in conjunction with Focal, ensure it delivers a satisfying sound, while its DSP has more than ten times the processing power of the original, for even greater musical accuracy. Add class-leading streaming from Naim and others, plus Hi-Res Audio support, and you have everything you could possibly need.

“Naim takes everything that was great about the Mu-so and makes it even better.” – T3

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We have the knowledge on wireless audio» See pages 22-25

The Classic Evo Turntable Evo stands for evolution: the next generation of the award-winning Classic turntable. One improvement is in the sub-platter, where Pro-Ject used experience from designing its limited edition Vienna Philharmonic record player to enhance performance with material and manufacturing changes rarely seen in this price category. Elsewhere, there’s also improvements around the carbon fibre/aluminium hybrid tonearm’s bearing assembly, for fluidity in use, and it now comes pre-installed with the Ortofon Quintet Red MC cartridge. The Classic Evo is a worthy addition at the high-end of Pro-Ject’s new models.

Go analogue and get the experience A true ambassador for analogue hi-fi in the ongoing turntable revival, Pro-Ject Audio Systems creates quality hi-fi turntables and electronics. In fact, it has been one of the most powerful driving forces in reinventing turntables for the modern hi-fi market, with a wide range of products for every listener and budget. Its designs have a contemporary look with a focus on outstanding audio. Its design ethos is one of merging classic technologies with the latest innovations,

using only the best quality materials available and focusing on excellence in sound performance. Pro-Ject equipment is also designed to fit perfectly in the modern home, in a wide range of colours and finishes. Pro-Ject turntables are ideal if you want to enjoy your existing record collection in the best possible way, or if you’re new to the joys of vinyl and want to get started with something that puts audio first.

T1 Turntable

X1 Turntable

X2 Turntable

Perfect for getting started with – or returning to – vinyl, this turntable offers stunning quality at this price. Based around a CNC machined wooden plinth for low resonance, the T1 features isolation feet, a glass platter, pre-set one-piece tonearm and a quality Ortofon cartridge. Available in standard and Phono SB versions, the latter features electronic speed change and a built-in phono stage for the ultimate convenience.

The X1 delivers the best build quality. This no gimmicks approach equates to the best sound quality, from its heavy MDF chassis right down to the combination of materials in its bearings. The new tonearm uses a carbon and aluminium sandwich construction for super rigidity and features pro-level adjustments, including VTA (Vertical Tracking Angle) and Azimuth. It’s teamed with the ‘Pick-it S2’ Pro-Ject cartridge, made by specialists Ortofon, to pick out every nuance of detail. With eight layers of paint and a hand-polished finish it looks as good as it sounds.

Engineered to class-leading standards, the Pro-Ject X2 digs deeper into your vinyl collection. It features a denser chassis and a super-heavy acryl platter that’s 50% thicker than the X1 model, for even better vibration resistance than its award-winning sibling. Combined with its isolated motor, precision bearing, longer tonearm and Ortofon 2M Silver cartridge, this makes the X2 a powerful, precise and toe-tappingly fun listen.

Available in white, black or walnut.

Available in satin black, high-gloss black, matte white or walnut.

Available in high-gloss black, high-gloss white or walnut.

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We have the knowledge on turntables» See pages 28-29

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Award-winning British acoustics Q Acoustics’ mission is straightforward: to design and produce the very best loudspeakers in the world at any price. To achieve this monumental task, Q Acoustics has assembled a team of the world’s most experienced and successful loudspeaker designers.

Your ears and eyes are in for a feast with the stunning, contemporary Concept 300. It’s designed like no other standmount speaker, with a revolutionary design bringing a new level of sophistication. The triple-layer cabinet reduces resonance to an absolute minimum and the drive units – a long-throw woofer cone and a mechanically decoupled tweeter – respond with total faith to the music. The result is the highest quality music playback, pure and simple. Last but not least, the elegant Tensegrity stands enhance the sound. Lightweight and rigid, they maximise support with their dynamically balanced tripod design and ultra-low levels of resonance. Available in silver & ebony, black & rosewood or white & oak, including stands.

The results speak for themselves. Q Acoustics speakers gain universal acclaim from consumers and expert reviewers alike, including an impressive number of awards over its 12-year history. It continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in each category and price range.

“The Concept 300 may build on classic sonic principles, but the result is fresh and new. Audition as a matter of urgency.” – TechRadar

Concept 500 Speakers

3050i Speakers

3020i Speakers

These award-winning, floorstanding speakers sound spectacular thanks to Q Acoustics’ sheer audiophile perfectionism in the quest for the purest, most natural sound. Twin, long-throw woofers deliver powerful bass while the mechanically decoupled tweeter gives a smooth yet detailed treble response. Distortion is held to an absolute minimum, thanks to a damped triple-layer cabinet construction. While its unique Helmholtz Pressure Equalizer prevents pressure build-up in specific spots around the cabinet, again cutting resonance and cabinet distortion. You hear the sound exactly as the artist intended.

The all-new 3050i floorstanding speaker has been created using design principles taken from Q Acoustics’ critically acclaimed Concept 500 Series, resulting in stunning sonic performance and beautiful aesthetics. Helmholtz Pressure Equalizer technology reduces distortion while the improved cabinet uses P2P (point-to-point) bracing for extra support where it’s needed most. Revised drive units, including decoupled tweeters and twin woofers, complete the bill. With power and purity of sound at their heart, the 3050is are among the most dynamic-sounding speakers in their class.

The latest in a long line of award-winning speakers. Whether on a bookshelf or stand, the 3020i outperforms expectations with room-filling hi-fi sound. Its muchimproved cabinet uses P2P (point-to-point) bracing for extra support where it’s needed most. This gives a cleaner, purer sound, making the most of the speaker’s revised drive units. The light, rigid, woofer cone gives deep, punchy sound. The tweeters are decoupled from the cabinet, so the treble isn’t affected by vibration from the bass. With power and purity of sound at its heart, the 3020i is among the most dynamic-sounding speakers in its class.

Available in silver & ebony, black gloss, black & rosewood, white gloss or white & oak.

“The 3050is are full of energy and even better than their predecessors – Q Acoustics has come up with the goods once more.” – What Hi-Fi?

“The Concept 500s prove Q Acoustics can compete at all levels. They’re superb speakers for the money.” – What Hi-Fi?

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Concept 300 Speakers

Available in black, white, graphite or walnut.

We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18- 19

Available in black, white, graphite or walnut. “Deep in size, deep in sonic analysis, these standmounts will make great first speakers.” – What Hi-Fi?

The sound of science An award-winning British company with more than 40 years’ heritage making cables and interconnects. QED’s reputation for innovation and technical excellence is known throughout the world and its products are recommended by many of the world’s leading hi-fi and home theatre equipment manufacturers. QED offers a wide range of connectivity products, spanning consumer and installation cables and interconnects, wireless products and switching devices,

to satisfy every audio-visual need. The company’s aim is to satisfy every budget with an equally wide range of price points. Whether you choose a simple speaker cable or premium custom performance cables, you’ll hear the difference. That’s not just what QED says, either. The company is Europe’s number one award-winning connectivity company and has won more cable awards from What Hi-Fi? than any other brand.

Reference Audio 40 (right) RCA interconnect This multi-award-winning range celebrates QED’s 40 years at the forefront of British-designed audio cables. Innovative Complementary Conductor Technology uses two conductors of different diameters to carry the same audio signal. This provides an alternative path for high frequencies, to avoid “time smear” where high-frequency signals travel slightly faster. The result is a discernibly cleaner sound with outstanding levels of detail. Teamed with QED’s Analoc RCA plugs, with a low-eddy current design and small, high-purity copper conductors, signal integrity is maximised. The result is QED’s most innovative interconnect yet. “An impressive stereo interconnect that ushers through a high-quality sound.” – What Hi-Fi?

Performance Premium HDMI (left) HDMI interconnect This outstanding HDMI cable more than lives up to its name. It’s engineered to meet the exacting standards of HDMI.org’s Premium Cables Certification Program and is compatible with the HDMI 2.0b and 2.1 standard, HDR, HDCP 2.2 and WGC (Wide Colour Gamut). It’s also made from exceptionally pure (99.999% oxygen free) copper for maximum detail and minimum distortion. Together these make the Performance Premium HDMI the perfect match to ensure your 4K HDR TV does the very best job of displaying content from UHD Blu-ray players, 4K games consoles, streaming boxes and more. “Very capable performer. Produces solid, stable sound and the image quality is vibrant and wonderfully rendered.” – What Hi-Fi?

Supremus (right) Speaker cable QED’s ultimate speaker cable, more than 40 years in the making. It boasts the largest cross sectional area of pure copper ever incorporated into a QED cable, for staggering low resistance which in turn delivers effortlessly deep bass and detailed treble. Its enamelled insulation is teamed with Aircore geometry and construction to cut distortion. Cryogenic treatment enhances the cable’s microstructure for a beautifully natural tone. Terminated versions of this stunning reference cable use Locking Plugs with an oxygen-free cold weld that doesn’t deteriorate over time. Available by the metre or as a 2m, 3m or 5m terminated pair.

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We have the knowledge on separates» See pages 20-21

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TrueConnect True wireless earbuds with Bluetooth 5 The TrueConnect combines stylish, subtle design, excellent call and streaming quality, and intuitive device and call control in earpieces. Enjoy your music for longer with 5 hours of playback plus an additional 20 hours from the charging carry case. The IPX5 sweat and weather resistance certification combined with the secure, comfortable fit ensures these can also act as your perfect sports headphones. Plus, with touch and mic you get full control over your device and digital assistant. Supplied with Comply™ TrueGrip Plus and RHA TrueConnect tips for the perfect fit. “The reigning king of true wireless.” – TechRadar Editors’ Choice – Digital Trends Recommended – ExpertReviews Recommended – TechAdvisor Best in Class – TechRadar

Sound. Engineered.

RHA is a specialist British audio company. It stands for true-to-life sound reproduction and lasting quality. With these values at its core, RHA works to deliver the most accurate, comfortable and unobtrusive listening experience possible. Every RHA product combines high-quality materials, precision engineering and its fundamental commitment to design.

MA650i with Lightning (left) In-ear headphones These are made for iPhone / iPad / iPod, with a Lightning connection designed specifically for use with Apple devices and an inline mic and remote for Siri voice control and phone calls. The powerful, dynamic drivers deliver engaging, immersive, full-range sound, while distinctive, machined aluminium housings isolate you from external noise for an immersive listening experience. The headphones come with a carry pouch and a range of eight additional pairs of ear tips, including silicone and Comply memory foam, to ensure a great fit.

T20 Wireless (right) Wireless in-ear headphones These aptX Bluetooth wireless headphones promise RHA’s signature sound and quality combined with a 12-hour battery life, thanks to their neckband design. They come supplied with a wide selection of ear tips and also additional sound filters, which you can install inside the earphones if you want to skew the sound more towards the bass or treble.

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We have the knowledge on headphones» See pages 32-35

RHA’s range of award-winning in-ear headphones combines great sound, premium aesthetics and quality materials, offering high level performance without high prices. RHA just focuses on doing one thing brilliantly: in-ear headphones with lifelike sound reproduction.

K3 CD Di CD player The Di stands for digital inputs. So, as well as a great selection of analogue and digital outputs, including balanced XLR, you can plug in other digital sources to take advantage of the Roksan’s high-end Texas Instruments PCM1798 24-bit/192kHz DAC (digital-toanalogue converter). It makes audio from games consoles, Blu-ray players and more sing. Pretty much any digital source will benefit from a substantial upgrade in sound quality. Meanwhile the advanced precision crystal master clock, power supply, chassis and more have been carefully engineered to give the purest, lowest distortion sound possible. Available in charcoal, opium or anthracite. “There are plenty of players at this price offering sound-per-pound scale and detail, but few are so musical.” – What Hi-Fi?

Discover the music Ever since the ground-breaking original Xerxes turntable in 1985, Roksan products have become audio classics. Roksan hi-fi separates are proudly manufactured in Britain and offer superlative sound reproduction and excellent value for money.

audio engineering. The company is now owned by British loudspeaker manufacturer Monitor Audio, which means it’s perfectly placed to offer superb-sounding combinations of award-winning electronics and loudspeakers designed to complement one another perfectly.

Roksan products have received numerous worldwide awards, critical acclaim and five-star reviews. It’s a great choice for those with a passion for music and British

Caspian M2 Amp Stereo amplifier

Blak Amp Stereo amplifier

The multi-award-winning M2 is one of the finest-sounding amps in its price bracket. Resolution and dynamic scale are top priorities. Every nuance of musical detail is clearly articulated in a way you may never have heard from hi-fi before. Combined with this accuracy is an effortless power that can drive the strongest of rhythms for a totally absorbing performance, whether it’s classical or jazz, pop or dance music. This is thanks to superior construction and an ultra-low noise toroidal transformer that confidently delivers 85W per channel. A big, beautiful sound.

A custom-wound toroidal transformer and large heatsinks help provide a storming 150W per channel. This supremely powerful amp will drive just about any speaker to high levels, easily filling the largest living spaces. A dual-mono design means that both channels have their own dedicated components for a broad, accurate, perfectly-balanced sound. A top-quality Burr Brown USB DAC handles up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD128 to make the most of Hi-Res digital files and streaming services, or use Bluetooth aptX to connect wirelessly at the highest possible quality. A moving magnet phono stage, balanced XLR and RCA line level inputs complete the bill for this well-featured powerhouse.

“The Caspian M2 is an exceptional amplifier for the money. It’s a big-hearted performer capable of drama and subtlety.” – What Hi-Fi?

Available in charcoal, opium or anthracite. “Superbly judged. It has a powerful and energetic sound, with enough in the way of insight, subtlety and refinement to keep us happy.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi separates» See pages 20-21

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Hear the difference It’s that moment. That moment when you hear a tiny little sound in your all-time favourite song and it’s like you’ve never heard the song even once before. That moment is Sennheiser’s purpose. Because for seventyfive years, Sennheiser has dedicated itself to delivering that moment of fresh discovery; while leading the global

charge in audio innovation in the studio, on the stage, and in the lab. But above all, this family-owned business has always pursued excellence. Something that’s always been in style with sound connoisseurs, sound professionals and people who can truly hear the difference.

HD 660 S Open-back over-ear headphones

HDV 820 Headphone amplifier / DAC If you have a pair of quality headphones, you’ll get more from them with a dedicated amplifier. Sennheiser’s years of specialist experience has produced a headphone amp of absolute precision, with a level of detail and staging that built-in headphone amps can’t hope to match. A quality volume control offers precise control and also ultra-low levels of distortion. The HDV 820 also incorporates a quality ESS Sabre32 DAC to make the most of any source with a digital output. Five-stage gain control, precision build and superb connectivity including XLR balanced inputs and outputs complete the quality package.

“This is one of those rare moments where some people will prefer the remake to the original.” – ExpertReviews

HD 820 Closed-back over-ear headphones

HD 800 S Open-back over-ear headphones

The most transparent-sounding closedback headphones, the HD 820’s let music lovers enjoy their music at an audiophile level wherever they please. They sound as transparent as open-backed models thanks to a new innovation: the legendary Sennheiser Ring Radiator transducers are each fitted with a unique, concave glass cover that reflects sound waves to an absorber, cutting out the resonance that can plague closed-back models. Get ready for an unparalleled listening experience.

Contained within are the largest speaker transducers commercially available. Their innovative design gives dynamic response and bass depth that’s almost impossible to reproduce with smaller designs. The stainless-steel housings form a robust chamber, enhancing neutrality, while innovative absorber technology soaks up unwanted resonance. The open-back design, angled to direct sound straight to the ear, delivers a stage-like presentation. Supremely comfortable, you’ll feel like you’re in the best listening room in the world.

“The HD 820 are pricey, but they are the most capable pair of closed-back headphones we’ve tested.” – What Hi-Fi?

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Designed for the discerning listener, the HD 660 S surpasses the exceptional performance of its predecessor, the legendary HD 650. With a crisp bass, excellent mid-frequency response, and a gentle, pleasantly natural treble, they have an expressiveness that immerses you in every nuance of music. Underneath the hood, you’ll find a new transducer design that results in improved control, thanks to stainless steel fabric. A new audiophile legend is born.

“If sensational sound quality is your priority, these high-end headphones are worth an audition.” – What Hi-Fi?

We have the knowledge on headphones» See pages 32-35

Ambeo Soundbar Sennheiser has knocked it out of the park with this, its first soundbar. It offers outstanding 3D home cinema sound with no need for rear speakers or a separate subwoofer. 13 drivers join forces to deliver room-filling sound. Two of them fire upwards to deliver Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D and object-based sound, while drivers on each end of the bar fire sideways at an angle to ensure you’re surrounded on all sides. The supplied calibration microphone makes it easy to automatically adjust the output to suit your room’s acoustics, giving you the best sound possible in any space. Support for Bluetooth, Google Chromecast and UPnP makes it the heart of your audio streaming system, too. “This is the best soundbar we’ve tested, and the best way to get surround sound into your room without filling it with lots of individual speakers.” – What Hi-Fi?

Hugh, Deputy Manager, Weybridge store. 6th year of service.

Ask us for a free, no obligation consultation & survey today We’ll happily come to your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion) At Richer Sounds, we’re passionate about making sure you get the most from your music and movies. To deliver a more personal service, our experienced sales advisors now go the extra mile to visit you at your home or place of work to talk through and assess your needs, recommending the most suitable equipment for you, your space and your budget.

The experienced sales advisors you meet in-store will be the same people that visit you to guide you on equipment choices.

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We can suggest solutions that you might not have considered, such as in-wall or in-ceiling speakers.

With installations in everything from studios to submarines, plus our renowned value, we’re a chosen supplier to organisations UK-wide.

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Fill your home with music wirelessly Sonos has long been the go-to brand for wireless multiroom music. Its latest new products take this further, with a more powerful Sonos Amp that can drive even the most demanding hi-fi speakers, and architectural speakers developed with Sonance for discreet listening. These new products bring you all the benefits of Sonos in new ways. Play any music source on any Sonos device and then enjoy it simultaneously elsewhere in the house. Play a movie in your living room, a podcast in the kitchen or stream the same online streaming services across all your Sonos devices – flexibility is key. The Sonos app lets you browse and play your music from any device. Use your smartphone, tablet or computer to play different songs in each room, or group rooms together to hear the same beat everywhere. Sonos doesn’t just play your favourite stored songs, it will also stream services such as Spotify, TIDAL and internet radio. The more speakers and devices you add, the better the system gets. You can even even use your voice to control selected Sonos products, or connect an Amazon Echo or Google Home device to integrate Sonos with your voice-controlled Smart home.

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We have the knowledge on Smart audio» See pages 22-27

Amp Network amplifier If you love the convenience of Sonos but want to enjoy it with your own, high-quality speakers, this is just the ticket. Putting out a mighty 125 watts per channel, it’s ideal for all speakers, including floorstanders and custom installation speakers. It’s a true hi-fi performer that can fill even the biggest room with sound. For even more bass, use the sub output to connect your choice of powered subwoofer. Meanwhile its wide range of inputs let you connect a TV, games console, turntable (with phono pre-amp) or other music device. Get the power and connectivity your Sonos system deserves with the flexible Sonos Amp.

Move Voice-activated portable Smart speaker All the brilliance of a Sonos Smart speaker made fully portable and weatherproof. At home, connected to Wi-Fi, it works as part of your home Sonos system and is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control. You can also use Apple AirPlay 2 for seamless streaming. Away from home, you can still enjoy its smooth, spacious and well-balanced Sonos sound by connecting via Bluetooth. It boasts a long-lasting battery (up to 10 hours), carry handle and IP56 rated weatherproofing: perfect for the great outdoors and also rugged enough for demanding environments like bathrooms. “Sonos Move justifies every penny with its Smart connectivity.” – TechRadar

One SL Wireless multiroom speaker (single) The emphasis here is on straightforward music quality, with two Class D amps delivering rich, room-filling sound from a compact body. You can pair two One SL speakers for immersive stereo or use them for rear surround in a Sonos home cinema system. The emphasis on pure sound means there’s no built-in mic, ideal for places where you don’t need voice control. Command it via the Sonos app or swipe on the speaker’s touch panel. The One SL also features Trueplay, which scans your room, analyses the results and then fine-tunes the speaker for the most natural and realistic sound possible. If you want voice control, go for Sonos One, which has all the great features and sound of One SL, plus Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built in. Available in black or white. “The original champion is still hard to fault” – What Hi-Fi?

Port Network player

In-Ceiling Speaker by Sonance Speakers

In-Wall Speaker by Sonance Speakers

Make any music system a Sonos system with Port. Simply plug it in to your current hi-fi, or active speakers, to turn it into a fully-fledged Sonos streamer. Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Google Play Music, TIDAL and Deezer are just some of the popular services supported. Sound is first-class, thanks to a top quality DAC. What’s more, Port’s inputs mean that the music you play on your existing system (vinyl, CDs) can suddenly be shared wirelessly with other Sonos devices all over the house. Port is also compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and voice control devices featuring Amazon Echo and Google Assistant.

This discreet pair of architectural speakers is designed for ambient listening. Installed in the ceiling, they virtually disappear from sight, yet still offer the rich, powerful sound you expect from Sonos, designed and built in conjunction with audio specialists Sonance. Sound is smooth and powerful, despite the size. And you can power three pairs from one Sonos Amp. You can even use Sonos’s famous Trueplay system with the Amp to account for your room’s size, construction and furnishings, automatically adjusting for the best possible sound.

These architectural speakers, again designed and built in conjunction with audio specialists Sonance, are designed for focussed listening. Once installed into your room’s walls, they virtually disappear from sight yet still offer the rich, powerful sound you expect from Sonos. The speakers are acoustically matched to the Sonos In-Ceiling Speaker by Sonance, so they’re perfect teamed together. One Sonos Amp can drive any three pairs. Again Trueplay makes it easy to automatically tailor the sound, to account for the room and its contents.

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We have the knowledge on Smart audio» See pages 22-27

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SL-1210 MK7 Turntable

SL-1500C Direct-drive turntable

The SL-1210 and SL-1200 are at the heart of most professional DJs, and are world renowned for robust build quality, reliability, and precise, stable sound. The SL-1210 MK7 uses Technics’ famous direct drive system to deliver class leading torque for super-stable pitch and rapid start/stop action. Based on technology from the reference G and GR models, the MK7 uses an all-new coreless motor design to eliminate ‘cogging’ for rock-solid pitch stability. Meanwhile you’re in full control: as well as +/-8 or 16% pitch, there are micro switches to select 78rpm, reverse play and even adjust start-up torque and brake speed. This deck performs exactly how you want it to. Stunning whether in a DJ booth, studio or home.

Based on the legendary Technics SL-1210, the SL-1500C takes the sophisticated direct-drive mechanism but delivers a more minimalistic design and approach for a high-performance home turntable. Removing pitch control, cue and strobe lights not only gives a cleaner design, it improves sound quality through less complexity. An all-new motor design eliminates ‘cogging’ for absolute pitch stability and a lifelike sound. A built-in phono stage, semi-auto operation, plus a superb 2M Red cartridge from specialists Ortofon complete the package, making this an ideal hi-fi turntable. The classic comes home. Available in silver or black. “A beautifully made, fuss–free record player that sounds great.” – What Hi-Fi?

Rediscover music Technics launched its first product, a speaker, more than 50 years ago, but it is perhaps best known for its legendary turntables, which changed the face of urban music. Technics believes in the never-ending pursuit of the definitive sound, through innovation, with no compromises. Its investment in research brought about unique technologies such as direct-drive turntables, linear-phase speakers, and switching distortion reduction for amplifiers.

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That core DNA has been inherited by Technics as it returns to the market phoenix-like with new and innovative products for today’s music lovers. As well as turntables that have evolved from the legendary SL-1200, which played a key role in the birth of DJ culture, it offers beautiful lifestyle hi-fi systems, separates, speakers and headphones.

We have the knowledge on turntables» See pages 28-29

OTTAVA SC-C70 Premium all-in-one music system A fully featured Technics system in one stylish and surprisingly compact box, packed with clever tech. JENO (Jitter Elimination and Noise-shaping Optimization), cuts jitter at both ends of the frequency range, for crystal clear sound. LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration) uses corrective processing to get the perfect alignment with the built-in speakers. Its built-in amp and speakers make the most of practically any source. CD and DAB / FM tuner are built in along with AirPlay and Bluetooth for streaming plus asynchronous USB for Hi-Res Audio. A petite powerhouse.

Ottava SC-C50 Smart speaker

Ottava SC-C30 Smart speaker

The aluminium SC-C50 is an incredibly sleek lifestyle speaker that packs in multiple drivers to deliver super wide soundstage. Its seven speakers (three 6.5cm midrange, three 16mm tweeters, 12cm subwoofer) deliver robust 3.1 channel sound, powered by a total of 100 watts of amplification. Streaming comes as standard, with built-in Google Chromecast and compatibility with Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, internet radio and network playback. It handles digital files up to 24-bit/384kHz and DSD128 for Hi-Res Audio.

This compact, smaller sibling to the SC-C50 contains a pair of 16mm tweeters, two 6.5cm woofers and a 12cm subwoofer for a full 2.1-channel sound and a wide soundstage that belies its size. Its 60W fully digital amp configuration powerfully and accurately drives each speaker unit for clear sound imaging and scaling. Space Tune calibrates sound to suit your space and Google Chromecast streaming is built in, along with support for Airplay 2, Spotify, Tidal and Bluetooth. The Technics Audio Centre app offers multiroom music too.

Available in black or white / silver.

Available in black or white / silver.

EAH-F70 Wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones Active noise cancellation is perfect for travel. Using a sophisticated twin-feed system, these measure ambient sound in two locations and use a dedicated noise-cancellation circuit to ensure you hear more music and less noise from the outside world. A simple tap on the side lets ambient sound through, so you can hear announcements. Taking them off automatically pauses the music: it restarts when you put them back on again. All this is teamed with premium drivers, class-leading bass that drops right down to 4Hz, and a choice of wired Hi-Res Audio compatibility or Bluetooth with LDAC for superior-quality wireless freedom. They’re compatible with voice assistants such as Siri too. Available in black, brown or silver.

EAH-F50 Wireless over-ear headphones These premium headphones have a closed-back design to keep out sounds from the outside world, with soft ear pads and a ball-jointed headband for a tailored fit that ensures supreme comfort, even for long listening sessions. Its premium drivers provide class-leading bass: use the cable connection and the bass drops right down to 4Hz, a difference you can feel. High levels of rigidity keep the sound smooth and detailed. Like the EAH-F70, you can choose between wired Hi-Res Audio compatibility and wireless freedom: LDAC delivers three times more detail than ordinary Bluetooth headphones, with an improved frequency response for a sound that’s closer to Hi-Res Audio. Available in black or silver.

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

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Formation Wedge Wireless speaker Experience an expansive, detailed and balanced sound with this stunning centrepiece able to stream 24-bit/ 96kHz high-resolution stereo. Its beautiful design is a 120° wedge shape, with a faceted fabric front and a curved rear finished either in wood or a clean, vibrant white. This sleek exterior conceals a three-way drive unit array: a pair of 25mm decoupled double-dome aluminium tweeters from the acclaimed 600 Series, two 90mm FST midrange drivers and a 150mm subwoofer. Driven by a total of 240W of amplification, it’s guaranteed to fill even the largest room with beautiful, streamed sound. Formation Wedge works with AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, Roon and aptX HD Bluetooth. Control it from the Bowers & Wilkins Home app or from Roon and synchronise it with other Bowers & Wilkins Formation products for immersive, whole-home wireless sound enabled by its own robust mesh network. Available in black or silver. “The B&W Formation Wedge offers the kind of detailed, balanced, cohesive sound that cannot be ignored – making it a class-leader in its category.” – What Hi-Fi?

Audio excellence Legendary British loudspeaker maker Bowers & Wilkins was founded in 1966 in Worthing, Sussex. In the following decades, the company innovated with curved cabinets and its now iconic tweeter-on-top design, still seen in Bowers & Wilkins high-end speakers today. The nineties brought many innovations, including its extraordinary Nautilus loudspeaker, then the new millennium heralded a move into digital music with the Zeppelin iPod speaker and ultimately wireless streaming speakers. It has also seen Bowers & Wilkins move into

stunning high-fidelity headphones and collaborations with premium automotive brands including BMW and McLaren. This globally recognised British brand has a huge R&D facility in the UK and continues to innovate. Now, as it celebrates more than 50 years of excellence, Bowers & Wilkins moves forward with the new Formation suite of multiroom, wireless products which work together as a Mesh network, independent of your existing Wi-Fi, for supreme quality and a robust system.

Formation Duo Wireless speakers

606 Speakers

PX7 Wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones

Bowers & Wilkins’ legendary, award-winning design goes wireless to deliver a precise soundscape unlike any other wireless speaker. Each Formation Duo has a 25mm Carbon Dome tweeter derived from the 700 Series range and mounted in a tweeter-on-top configuration, alongside a 165mm Continuum cone for midrange and bass. The two-way speakers work beautifully as part of the Bowers & Wilkins Formation mesh system, allowing up to 24-bit/96kHz high-resolution streaming from a wide range of sources, including AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, Roon and aptX HD Bluetooth. Control comes from the Bowers & Wilkins Home app or from Roon.

Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series has long represented the entry point for premium hi-fi speakers and the 606 is a very worthy successor. The speakers are relatively compact, at 345mm high, and use the latest 165mm Continuum cone bass/mid drivers, seen in Bowers & Wilkins’ pricier new speakers. These are topped with 25mm decoupled double-dome aluminium tweeters, decoupled to reduce the impact of distortion from the bass drivers. Sound is detailed, dynamic and full, while looks are equally impeccable: the cleaned-up front uses magnetically attached grilles for a more modern, attractive finish.

Available in black or white.

“An upbeat, entertaining, brilliantly-balanced sound from a beautifully-made pair of speakers.” – What Hi-Fi?

Bowers & Wilkins has a reputation for headphones that sound less like headphones, more like a state-of-the-art speaker system. The PX7s are no different, despite offering wireless convenience enabled by Qualcomm’s new aptX Adaptive Bluetooth technology, offering 24-bit/48kHz high-resolution streaming with low latency. Their 43.6mm drivers are the largest in Bowers & Wilkins’ headphone collection, built and tuned by the engineers behind the Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series Diamond speakers used in Abbey Road Studios. Adaptive noise cancelling automatically responds to your environment, keeping the outside world out. Battery life is 30 hours and a 15-minute charge is enough to buy you another 5 hours. What’s more, they’re supremely comfortable and smart: lift an ear cup and the music pauses, resuming when you put it back.

“This is a great wireless product and nothing comes close to it right now.” – What Hi-Fi?

Available in black or white.

Available in Silver or Space Grey. “B&W’s flagship noise-cancellers are born entertainers and can rub shoulders with the very best.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

TV & home cinema 66

Smart, 4K & 8K UHD HDR televisions

72

Surround sound

68

Premium televisions

74

Soundbars & sound bases - the simple upgrade

70

Projectors

76

High-end soundbars & sound bases

TV & home cinema brands 78

Epson

106 Sanus

79

Flexson

107 SVS

80

Hisense

108 Sony

81

REL / Wharfedale

114 ViewSonic

82

LG

115 Vogel’s

90

Panasonic

116 Yamaha

96

Philips

118 Richer Unsigned

98

Samsung

Television: Panasonic TX55GZ2000B

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Smart UHD HDR TVs – everyday excellence

A stunning picture with a world of content on demand... Enjoy the future of entertainment, today

“We’ll help you find a Smart TV with the right apps, features, picture and sound for you, and with built-in streaming, you can get a stunning 4K/UHD HDR picture with video on demand.” Diego, Manager, Liverpool Store. 15th year of service.

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Below – Television: Panasonic TX50GX800B Right – Television: LG OLED65W9PLA (Dolby Atmos soundbar included)

All of the televisions that grace these pages boast state-of-the-art technology, including 4K or 8K Ultra High Definition (UHD), High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Smart functionality to enhance your viewing experience. That’s right, even our most basic TVs are far from basic. With UHD and HDR built in (see box) you can take a brilliant picture for granted. More and more content is

broadcast in 4K, including BT Sport’s new Ultra HD channel. Our TVs also have internet-connected, Smart functionality, so you’re never short of content to watch – from YouTube to Netflix, it’s all built in. Meanwhile the design of the screens themselves is stunning, across all price points. Frames are thinner, stands are minimalist. Some designs are subtle enough to disappear, while others are more architectural and

Big screen buzzwords. 4K UHD All our latest TVs are UHD (Ultra High Definition) in 4K or 8K resolution. A 4K or UHD picture is made up of four times as many pixels (dots) as a 1080p Full HD picture. This means a much sharper image, packed with detail, perfect for big screen sizes. Make the most of a 4K TV with 4K/UHD Blu-ray discs or content from broadcasters and streaming services. 4K TVs are also great at upscaling your regular Blu-rays, DVDs and TV broadcasts for improved picture quality across the board.

8K UHD Just coming onto the market now are 8K televisions, boasting

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can act as a centrepiece to your living room. The challenge, then, is choosing from the various models. When it comes down to selecting the best TV in a certain price class, you’ll find much comes down to personal taste, so we strongly recommend you come in store and try before you buy. Our team will help you find the TV that best suits you and your preferred viewing.

We’ll translate the jargon for you.

four times as many pixels as 4K, so that’s 16 times as many dots as 1080p. If you want the very best picture money can buy, or to future-proof yourself for quite some time, take a look at the difference in store. If 4K is stunning, 8K will take your breath away.

HDR Get a TV with HDR (High Dynamic Range) and you get a picture that’s made up of over a billion, rather than millions, of colours. The extra colour depth means your picture is more lifelike and vibrant, with superb contrast too. Look out for compatibility with these: HDR10, which means the TV can handle

the very latest HDR standard; HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma), which means it’s compatible with the standard for broadcast HDR; Dolby Vision, a leading format in Hollywood and cinemas, which optimises the picture for the screen on a scene-by-scene basis; and HDR10+, a format that adds dynamic data, to improve the detail in shadows and brighter scenes.

Smart apps Your TV’s internet connection brings social media apps and websites to the big screen, YouTube videos (including Richer Sounds’ own YouTube channel) and catch-up services such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Player, All 4 and

Demand 5. TVs with Freeview Play or Freesat Smart TV let you browse through the last seven days’ programmes, as well as plan a week ahead, in one planner. There are also apps for streaming music, internet radio, playing video games and more.

Streaming Among the most popular Smart TV apps are video streaming from popular services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Enjoy immediate access to thousands of movies and box sets, all in pin-sharp detail. Both services have a catalogue of 4K HDR content for you to stream on demand.

For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

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Premium TVs

Picture quality and screen sizes that will thrill you like never before

“For a pretty incredible home cinema that’s simple to set up and integrates easily into your home, team a 4K/UHD Premium television and a matching 4K Blu-ray player with a Dolby Atmos soundbar or system.” Dale, Manager, Newcastle store. 21st year of service.

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Not all televisions are created equal. Cutting-edge display technologies like OLED and QLED promise a picture that’s a cut above the rest, and in bigger screen sizes than ever before. OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) is still a big buzzword this year, with many brands offering flagship OLED models. Unlike LED screens (including QLED)which require backlighting, the pixels in OLED screens light up individually. This leads to breathtaking realism with more consistent colour and vastly improved contrast. The TVs are slimmer too, because they do away with backlighting.

Choosing OLED over QLED isn’t a slam-dunk, however, because LED’s backlit screens do hit you with more brightness, which some people prefer, so it’s well worth seeing the actual screens and technologies in-store for yourself, before deciding. Samsung’s QLED (Quantum Dot LED) televisions use tiny particles to significantly enhance LED performance. The resulting picture offers outstanding brightness and wide viewing angles, perfect for large living rooms. Premium TVs are also available in more larger screen sizes with enough

detail to make sure every inch looks pin-sharp. Look out for screens measuring 65" and even 82" diagonally – that’s more than 6ft, a size until recently only seen in projector screens. These top televisions naturally boast all the mod cons. Expect remote controls you can use with your voice and even compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Home. These let you command not just your viewing and listening but also compatible Smart home lighting, security and more.

Perfect partners Satellite, cable, streaming 4K UHD HDR content is now available on Sky Q, Virgin Media V6, BT Max, Amazon, Netflix, YouTube, Rakuten and more. Our range of Smart TVs features apps such as Netflix, so you can get stunning 4K HDR content without adding extra boxes. As for non-4K broadcasts and discs, our 4K UHD TVs and projectors can also upscale HD and standard definition content, adding more detail to the picture. All your viewing (DVDs, Blu-ray films, games, TV channels) looks sharper than ever before. The very first 8K UHD content is imminent too.

UHD Blu-ray You can enjoy 4K films on disc too. You’ll need a 4K Blu-ray player to play the new discs. This is great news for movie lovers because the quality direct from a disc is always better than streaming. The new discs don’t just offer incredible 4K resolution, they also add new technology, including HDR and support for the latest immersive home cinema surround sound formats.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Maximise immersion and enjoyment by watching your favourite film accompanied by the latest objectbased surround sound format. From upwards-firing speakers that bounce sound off the ceiling, to in-ceiling and wall-mounted surround speakers, to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which provide a nearly seamless 360-degree cinema sound experience at home. See page 72 for more.

Far left – Television: Samsung QE55Q90R Left – Television: Sony BRAVIA KD55AG9BU

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For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

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Projectors – bring the cinema experience home

The biggest and best screen in town: nothing transports you to the heart of the action quite like a projector

Projector screen: Sapphire SESC300BWSF Floorstanding speakers: Focal Aria 926 Centre speaker: Focal Aria CC900 Hi-fi rack: Atacama Apollo Storm

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Put the “cinema” into home cinema with a projector. For a really big screen, a projector can’t be beaten. At the high end, it’s the go-to tech for a dedicated home cinema room. Convert your spare room or garage; think plush seats and popcorn. For something more ‘plug-and-play’ we offer affordable, portable projectors you can use anywhere for impromptu film nights and gaming sessions. Projector technology is outstanding... and outstanding value. Enjoy an impressive picture measuring 100 inches or more, bigger than even the biggest TVs, at a fraction of the price. They’re capable of handling fast, high-definition action and modern projectors don’t need total darkness or a huge room. For the ultimate big picture, take a look at our range of 4K UHD projectors, promising a much sharper

image, packed with detail. From UHDcompatible ‘4K Enhanced’, to ‘Laser’ projectors and beyond, 4K is the ultimate home cinema to rival your local multiplex. At Richer Sounds we’re huge fans of the performance, versatility and value of projectors – which is why our Experience Rooms all include a choice of comparable projectors, so you can see the benefits for yourself. We have the biggest range in the UK, with models to suit all budgets, from affordable, compact DLP models to high-end projectors featuring LCD and LCOS technologies. We can show you the pros and cons of each in our stores. Projectors are one purchase where it’s also well worth taking us up on our offer of a free site visit. We’ll come to your home or place of work (10 mile radius, negotiable at

manager’s discretion) to see the space for ourselves: the room size, shape and light levels. We’ll help you plan, whether you’re looking to create the ultimate home cinema installation or just a simple set-up to bring out for special occasions. If you do want a projector in place permanently, our installation team can help with ceiling mounts and hidden cables. You can even have a motorised screen that comes down from the ceiling at the push of a button or a permanent screen on the wall. We can also direct you to wireless models so there’s no need to run cables from your video source, ideal for occasional use or when cables can’t be hidden. No matter how you watch your entertainment, or the size and brightness of your room, there’s a projector perfect for your big screen dreams.

Projector: Optoma UHD65 Projector mount: Sanus VMPR1

Dream screen. Find the right projector for your home. Want a dedicated home cinema screen? Long-throw projectors are good for serious home cinema action and installations. Some are even 4K/UHD compatible. They’re great for fast on-screen action and deep, rich colours. Sit a long-throw projector on a shelf high on the wall opposite your screen or mount it on the ceiling. The screen doesn’t have to be visible when it’s not in use. It can be hidden in the ceiling.

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Add home automation for the ultimate in convenience: turn on the projector (with the remote control or even a voice command) and it triggers the motorised screen to descend, it can close the blinds or curtains too.

Want a pop-up big screen? With a short-throw projector, even the smallest room can become a cinema. These modern marvels have a wide lens

angle designed to produce a big, bright picture from not far away. This makes them ideal for putting on a coffee table at close range and projecting onto a portable screen or even a plain white wall (although for optimal performance, install a proper screen). Our projector range includes portable models perfect for taking to a friend’s for a movie night, big match or multiplayer games session. Or put one in your child’s bedroom for the evening when they have mates round: a private pop-up cinema!

For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

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Surround sound – complete the experience

Great sound adds a whole new dimension to your viewing

If you want to make movies, TV, sport and games far more exciting and immersive, team your stunning bigscreen TV or projector with proper surround sound. The latest sonic technology will envelop you in the action in three dimensions, for a truly cinematic experience. Great sound can add hugely to the power of a big screen, but sadly most TVs – because they’re so thin – don’t sound good enough. There’s just

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not enough room for speakers good enough to do the picture justice. The simplest way to improve your TV’s sound is with a soundbar or sound base (see pages 74-77) sat neatly under your set or wall-mounted. The more speakers you add, though, the more you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the story. We’re especially excited about new technology that delivers cinematic

surround sound effects in almost 360-degree sound. At your local multiplex, this is done using overhead speakers. This is an option at home too, but we also stock clever solutions that put upwards-firing drivers on the top of your front speakers (or soundbar) to bounce the sound effects off the ceiling. Great surround sound is something that must be experienced – felt and heard. That’s why all Richer Sounds

Surround set-ups How many speakers and where do they go? 2.1 Not strictly surround sound, but goodquality stereo speakers, teamed with a subwoofer for extra bass, are an easy, cost-effective upgrade that improves clarity and creates a much wider soundstage than built-in TV speakers can deliver.

5.1 The most common home surround set-up. Front left and right speakers deliver stereo action, the centre speaker provides super-clear dialogue and two rear speakers add atmosphere and “it’s behind you” thrills. That makes 5; the .1 is a subwoofer for extra power and depth in everything from soundtracks to huge explosions.

7.1 Takes 5.1 and adds two extra speakers, one on either side of you, for even more seamless surround effects.

3D surround sound Newer immersive formats are causing a stir in the world of surround sound, in the highest specification cinema screens and now in the very best home cinemas too. Formats like Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D use in-ceiling speakers (or upwardsfiring speakers) to place sound effects not only around but also above you. This adds a new dimension to surround sound for all types of movies and games, placing effects precisely in space, just as the director intended.

Centre speaker: KEF Q650C Standmount speakers: KEF Q150 Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers: KEF Q50a Television: LG OLED65C9PLA

Experience Rooms can now demo Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (see box), so you can discover for yourself the difference that 3D positioning from upwards-firing or in-ceiling speakers makes to home cinema surround sound. Our in-store team can advise you on speaker choices, home cinema receivers to drive them and even set-ups that double up as an audiophile hi-fi.

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Take us up on our offer of a free site visit (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion) and we can visit your home and advise on surround sound options to suit your space – everything from simple soundbars to bespoke 3D speaker set-ups that will make you feel like you’re really there.

DTS:X is similar, but is very versatile because it works with all sorts of speaker set-ups, including 5.1 and 7.1. Its object-based sound technology gives each sound precise coordinates in three dimensions and then, whatever your speaker set-up, the system will deliver it to the best of its abilities, so in-ceiling or upwards firing speakers are ideal but not essential. The different speaker configurations are conveyed in numbers. 5.1.2 takes a traditional 5.1 set-up and adds two height speaker channels. There are also receivers compatible with up to 7.2.4, and beyond! Generally, the first number in any surround sound description is the number of main speakers, followed by number of subwoofers, then downwards or upwards-firing speakers. Many surround sound systems can be updated simply as and when new formats become available.

For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

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Hidden soundbars and sound bases

Looking for a simple way to upgrade your TV sound? Look no further than a soundbar or sound base

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For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

TVs are getting slimmer and slimmer, hurray! But we have a problem. There’s not enough space behind slender modern screens to squeeze in really good speakers. As a result, dialogue is muddy and hard to pick out, sound is shallow and doesn’t do the picture justice. Not everyone has room for surround sound speakers in their living room, so a good compromise is a soundbar or sound base. Soundbars are slim speakers that sit directly below your TV. They have enough space for speaker enclosures, yet they don’t make too much visual impact on your room. The result is punchier sound effects, better bass,

wider stereo separation and much clearer dialogue. Most soundbars come paired with a wireless subwoofer, which can be hidden anywhere in the room, for some serious bass oomph. Alternatively, a sound base is designed to sit under a TV stand rather than be wall mounted. They deliver vastly improved sound quality and the extra depth means they deliver not just crisper dialogue but beefier bass too, so there’s often no need for an external subwoofer. The latest models also double up as sound systems for streaming audio straight from your smartphone, tablet

or laptop. Simply pair via Bluetooth and then listen through the soundbar or sound base, without turning on the TV. Look out for Bluetooth aptX or aptX HD support for even better audio quality. Stereo sounds good enough to fill the room with music and you can control everything via your device. Although they’ll never match the quality of a separates audio system, it’s a great way to save space because the soundbar or sound base does double duty. Pay us a visit and hear the difference these one-box solutions can make to your TV experience.

Left - Sound base: Canton DM60 | Television: Philips 43PUS6754 Above - Soundbar: DALI KUBIK ONE | Television: LG 49SM8600PLA

“You won’t believe the difference a good soundbar or sound base can make to the latest slender screens.” Amanda, Senior Sales Advisor, Cheltenham Store. 7th year of service.

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High-end soundbars

Premium soundbars that do more

We recommend a soundbar to everyone who doesn’t want separate surround speakers. Our premium models are slim marvels that do even more. Sound projectors are high-end soundbars that use clever tech to deliver surround-like sound, without the need for extra speakers around the room. They contain dozens of small speakers, some aimed directly at you, others carefully designed to point sideways or upwards to reflect sound off walls and ceilings. The result is a room-filling, surround-style sound.

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Sound projectors are easy to set up too: many come with a microphone to automatically configure the system to work best in your room. Our top-of-the-range soundbars are also Dolby Atmos and DTS:X certified, for impressive 3D sound that immerses you in the action. Ordinarily, Dolby Atmos requires seven speakers and a subwoofer dotted around the room, with at least two speakers delivering sound from above. The soundbar alternative is a compelling option if you want a streamlined living space but value cinematic 3D sound effects.

Come and try our wide range in-store and hear the quality for yourself. Better still, call us out for a free home visit (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion). Sound projectors work best in a fairly boxshaped room, with walls to bounce off, so it’s helpful to see the space before we recommend the best equipment to enhance your viewing pleasure. We can even provide a home demonstration, so you can hear exactly how good your entertainment could sound. Drop into your local store to find out more.

Beyond TV sound Some soundbars do so much more Look out for premium soundbars that can also work as part of a wireless multiroom system. For example, Sonos, Yamaha MusicCast and Harman Kardon Citation. We recommend you pick a brand and then stick with it. Add compatible Smart speakers at any time to stream wirelessly to other rooms; they’re easy to link together.

Wander from room to room with the same song following you; have a house party with the same track playing everywhere; or let family members play different music in different rooms simultaneously (keeping everyone happy). It’s the ultimate in convenience. You can also link a pair of wireless speakers to the soundbar for rear surround sound effects.

A growing number of our top soundbars also feature a built-in voice assistant, such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri or Google Assistant. Not only can you stream from popular music services, you can also control Smart home equipment, such as lighting and security, with simple voice commands.

Left - Soundbar: Harman Kardon Citation Bar & Citation Sub Above - Soundbar: Sony HTST5000

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For a selection of our TV and home cinema brands» See page 65

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EH-TW7400 Projector If you’d like a 4K-like big picture without paying for a 4K chip, this 3LCD home cinema projector is well worth an audition. It takes Full HD (1080p) resolution and uses sophisticated 4K enhancement processing to double its frame rate, creating crisp and clear images. Although not strictly a 4K projector, it gives it a much more detailed, denser image than an equivalent Full HD version. Compatible with HDCP2.2 HDMI, it also supports UHD content including 4K Blu-rays and 4K streaming services from providers such as Netflix. “Epson’s ‘4K’ projector is an appealing all-rounder, whether it’s playing 4K Blu-rays or DVDs.” – What Hi-Fi?

The ultimate home cinema experience As the world leader in imaging technology, Epson knows a thing or two about how to deliver a high-quality on-screen experience. So whether you’re a film lover or an avid sports fan, you’ll love its latest range of home cinema projectors.

No-one sells more pro AV projectors than Epson.* Why? Because its projectors bring content to life thanks to bright and clear images, even in well-lit rooms. Epson projectors have an equally high white and Colour Light Output (CLO), meaning they deliver fantastically vivid colours, too. They are even up to three times brighter than competitor 1-chip DLP projectors.**

EH-TW7000 Projector Enjoy enhanced picture quality at a keen price. This 3LCD projector processes native Full HD (1080p) resolution to double its frame rate, creating crisp and clear images, for a 4K-like experience that makes for a superb big picture. It also works with 4K streaming services such as Netflix. Enjoy an effortless 100" display in most rooms (at a distance of 2.95m) or expand this five times, given a big enough space. Or why not upgrade to the impressive EH-TW7100? Enhanced contrast ratio of a whopping 100,000:1 gives a more punchy picture, with inky blacks and bright, vivid whites. The built-in 10W stereo speaker also makes this the perfect one-stop solution you can use anywhere, even when you can’t connect to a soundbar or cinema system.

*Source Futuresource Consulting Limited, brightness above 6K Lumens, 2018 financial year Q3. **Colour brightness (colour light output) in brightest mode, measured by a third-party lab in accordance with IDMS 15.4. Colour brightness will vary depending on usage conditions. Top-selling Epson 3LCD projectors versus top-selling 1-chip DLP projectors based on PMA Research sales data for Dec 2015 through Nov 2016.

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We have the knowledge on projectors » See pages 70-71

Cantilever Mount for TV & Beam Cantilever TV bracket Mount and move your TV and Sonos Beam neatly with this cantilever bracket that lets them swivel and move away from the wall together. Get the best viewing angle from anywhere in the room, even if the screen’s mounted in an awkward corner. When pushed fully back, the depth is minimal, superior to many fixed brackets, so your TV and Sonos soundbar are practically flush with the wall and look their very best. The cantilever bracket fits most screens up to 43". There is also a larger version suitable for screens up to 65", which is compatible with either the Sonos Beam or Sonos Playbar.

Quality accessories for Sonos Flexson is a British company dedicated to designing and making quality accessories for the Sonos wireless hi-fi system. It makes nothing else. It has precision engineered more than 75 bespoke accessories to help you get more from every Sonos product, including its range of Smart speakers and soundbars.

The product line-up includes wall mounts, desk stands, floor stands, extension cables, connectivity and custom install solutions. Flexson products are designed by people who know and love Sonos deeply, so you can rely on its accessories being a perfect match for the looks and features of each Sonos product.

Wall Mount for One, One SL and Play:1 Speaker mount

Floor Stand for One, One SL and Play:1 Speaker stand

Premium Floor Stand for Play:5 Speaker stand

Mount your Sonos One, One SL or Play:1 securely on the wall anywhere. It gives plenty of adjustability to angle the sound: the mount tilts down by up to 15° and swivels left to right by 80°. The design fits the Sonos speaker seamlessly and even allows it to be inverted for access to controls if required.

This simple stand, made from extruded aluminium and high-grade steel, neatly supports a Sonos One, One SL or Play:1 at the ideal listening height. The slim upright has room for the power cable, plus network cable if required, with neat routing for both at the base. It also comes with a power extension cable, giving you extra reach if its perfect position isn’t near a power socket.

The ultimate accessory for the Play:5, beautifully crafted from aluminium, glass, steel and hardwood. The speaker can be mounted horizontally or vertically, at the optimum listening height, with the power cable hidden discreetly in a channel. The stand is slender and its stable base can fit under sofas or chairs if needed. It comes with adjustable carpet spikes and also rubber feet for hard floors. Simply elegant.

Available in black or white.

Available in black or white.

Available in white with English oak or black with American walnut.

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Say Hi to innovations for your life Hisense started out manufacturing radios in China back in 1969. Fifty years on, Hisense continues to push boundaries and strives to offer a full range of premium quality TVs and home appliances to the UK at affordable prices: innovative technology that’s easy to use and available to everyone.

It’s this dedication to developing and producing cutting-edge technology that has seen it become one of the world’s leading electronic manufacturers, and is now the number one TV brand in China, Australia and South Africa.

O8B (above) 4K OLED HDR Smart TV with Ultra HD Premium and Dolby Atmos The OLED technology in this 55" screen makes it beautifully slim and also delivers a vastly superior picture visible from a wider viewing angle. Unlike conventional LED TVs, OLED uses individually controlled pixels that don’t require backlighting. The results are darker blacks and improved contrast for a natural, lifelike picture. Meanwhile HDR, HDR10 and HLG support extends the palette to more than a billion different colours, for vastly enhanced realism, and Dolby Vision, inspired by cinema technology, continually optimises the picture scene by scene. Last but not least, there’s plenty to watch thanks to Smart TV apps and Freeview Play for catch-up TV. Available in 55" screen size.

U8B (right) 4K ULED HDR Smart TV with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision Hisense’s ULED is a combination of 20 different patented technologies that together create a stunningly realistic picture, superior to that of ordinary LED. In addition to this, they offer Wide Colour Gamut, local dimming for superior contrast, 4K resolution and smooth motion. HDR support includes HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision, again for improved realism. The sleek U8B also boasts 1000-nit peak brightness and a true 120Hz panel with SMR200 for the smoothest, most stable motion – perfect for fast-moving sports events and action movies. Smart apps and Freeview Play complete the bill. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

U7B 4K ULED HDR Smart TV with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision

B7500 4K LED HDR Smart TV with Dolby Vision and Unibody design

Hisense’s ULED technology gives this keenly priced screen greater realism thanks to Wide Colour Gamut, local dimming for superior contrast, 4K resolution and smooth motion. HDR support includes Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG again for enhanced realism. Like the O8B and U8B, it also boasts a slim Unibody design, and a fast new Smart OS for popular apps and TV services, plus Freeview Play for catch-up and over the air TV.

Amazing value and enhanced Smart tech make this hard to beat. Wide Colour Gamut extends the colour palette for more lifelike images while SMR100 helps deliver smoother, clearer motion. Meanwhile HDR support includes Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG to optimise the picture for enhanced realism. It also boasts a slim Unibody design and central stand perfect for smaller cabinets, while its Smart TV apps give fast access to popular content including Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube and Freeview Play for catch-up TV services.

Available in 50", 55" or 65" screen sizes.

Available in 43", 50", 55" or 65" screen sizes.

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Home theatre subwoofers T/5i Subwoofer

REL makes subwoofers. That’s it. Nothing else. No distractions. Each day is spent in pursuit of the most perfect, pure sound possible, to capture the raw intention of the artist. REL uses the best-quality materials and employs the most exacting construction requirements. This rigorous process is done purely for the love of sound because sound can move people more than any other sense. REL believes it’s the integration of the bass via the perfect subwoofer that makes everything else better.

Smaller does not mean lesser. REL designed the compact T/5i to give smaller sized spaces and systems equal quality sound, so while scale may change, the performance stays the same. Simplify, Then Add Lightness: Simplicity is its own reward and T/5i reduces the classic cubic sub to its bare essence. A single, high quality AlloyFibre™ composite driver and down-firing orientation produces maximum coupling with the floor and eliminates the need for a grille. T/5i is the purest expression of REL. Available in gloss black or gloss white.

T/9i Subwoofer REL has a longstanding tradition of requiring the top model in any range to be more. More than the sum of its parts, it represents the grandest scale, the highest output and the most they can do within any given technology envelope. T/9i represents the most of T/i, and if sheer output alone is a primary requirement for your theatre or music system then read no further. The combination of a lightweight, composite 10" driver coupled to a matching 10" T/i passive delivers speed, slam and attack when called upon, but also is capable of tracing more delicate passages when necessary. Powerful, concussive, yet beautiful. Available in gloss black or gloss white. “Musically engaging, bringing sonic improvements beyond bigger bass.” – Hi-Fi Choice

DX-2 5.1 speaker package The DX-2 satellite speakers are the ideal size: compact but just big enough to deliver great sound. The two-way design features silk dome tweeters for detailed, supersmooth treble and woven polypropylene woofers for a spacious and dynamicsounding mids. Sealed cabinets mean you’re free to place them close to a wall without compromising sound quality. The satellites are ably supported by a punchy 120W subwoofer. For an immersive 5.1 speaker system without the bulk, the DX-2 hits all the right notes. Available in black or white. “Wharfedale proves you can get movie magic on a small scale with the delightful DX-2.” – What Hi-Fi?

Where innovation meets heritage This renowned brand has been setting standards in loudspeaker performance since 1932, when Gilbert Briggs built his first loudspeaker in the valley of the River Wharfe. The same company is now famous for its multi-awardwinning Diamond series of speakers, which have been wowing critics for well over 30 years. Wharfedale invests heavily in R&D, making the design of any new loudspeaker an acoustic engineer’s dream. Instead of having to use off-the-shelf components, they are created from scratch to achieve a refined performance. richersounds.com

Vista 200 TV soundbar This slim soundbar gives your TV the fuller, richer sound it deserves. Stereo speakers, placed at either end of the soundbar, give a lifelike sound with a wide soundstage, while twin bass ports enhance efficiency and give the Vista 200’s sound much more depth than your TV’s built-in speakers. It also features Bluetooth music streaming and wall mounts are supplied. Available as soundbar only or teamed with a wireless subwoofer (Vista 200S). “You won’t find a better 2.1-channel soundbar for the money.” – TrustedReviews

We have the knowledge on surround sound» See pages 72-73

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Life’s Good in 2020 For more than 55 years, LG has been at the forefront of home electronics. The company is truly an innovator. In 1988, LG released the world’s first 60-inch plasma TV. It introduced the first dual format HD disc player in 2007. And in 2012 LG produced the world’s first ever 4K Ultra HD TV. LG’s OLED screens deliver a stunning HDR picture with unparalleled colour accuracy, depth and contrast. Its flagship LG SIGNATURE R9 “Rollable” TV showcases the possibilities of OLED with its breathtaking design:

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a paper-thin screen that rolls away when not in use. Meanwhile its new 8K OLED television delivers the most detailed picture yet, for incredible levels of realism even with the largest screen sizes. LG’s ThinQ AI allows users to control their TV and search for content with natural voice commands. Meanwhile LG’s design innovation also extends to state-of the-art soundbars and Smart speakers, including sound processing in partnership with British audio expert Meridian. Life’s good with LG.

We have the knowledge on OLED TV» See pages 68-69

LG Signature R9 4K OLED HDR Smart TV LG’s flagship “Rollable TV” showcases just what’s possible with the very latest flexible OLED technology. When not in use, the stunning 65" screen – just 0.2mm thick – rolls up and retracts into the handsome Foster + Partners designed table below. The result is magical and futuristic: with a simple voice command you can transform a stunning television into a minimalist piece of furniture. You can even partially retract the screen and enjoy it as a short, wide display for everything from apps to art. Picture quality itself is outstanding thanks to Dolby Vision HDR and its state-ofthe-art 9 Gen 2 processor with deep learning AI.

LG Signature Z9 8K OLED HDR Smart TV How better to show off the incredible detail of 8K resolution than with an 88" OLED screen? 8K uses 33 million pixels, four times the resolution of 4K and an incredible 16 times the resolution of Full HD, so the picture is truly pin sharp even with the largest of screen sizes. HDR is ably supported too – with Dolby Vision, Advanced HDR by Technicolor, HLG and HDR10 – for incredible brightness, contrast and vivid colour. The television sits elegantly on a discrete Art Furniture Stand, yet it finds space for Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound that places you in the heart of the action. Meanwhile its advanced 9 Gen 2 processor uses AI to analyse and improve picture and sound quality. It upscales 2K and 4K content to 8K and even converts two-channel sound to 5.1 virtual surround.

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W9PLA 4K OLED HDR Smart TV The original wafer-thin TV made even better. The 'W' stands for wallpaper, and at just 3.75mm, it’s one of the slimmest TVs ever made. This also makes it lighter, so you can mount a large screen on most internal walls. Its OLED class-leading picture quality, with advanced pixel level dimming, is driven by the powerful new 9 Gen 2 processor, offering a whole host of new features and supporting exciting new picture technologies, such as High Frame Rate and Dynamic HDR. LG’s Deep Learning AI Picture automatically adjusts the picture quality to the most accurate image possible. The package also includes a separate Dolby Atmos soundbar so your sound is just as lifelike and immersive as the picture. Available in 65" or 77" screen sizes.

E9PLA 4K OLED HDR Smart TV Your favourite entertainment comes to life like never before in gloriously rich quality, with perfect blacks. Dolby Vision ensures content is displayed with the kind of accuracy that could only described as stunningly life-like. Sound is equally adept, with Dolby Atmos immersive audio provided courtesy of the 4.2 channel 60W speaker array. The minimalistic design on offer in the E9 blends perfectly in to any space. Not only does this TV have the beauty, is also has the brains to match – with a new 9 Gen 2 processor with AI performing superior on-the-fly image control, and advanced voice control. Available in 55” or 65” screen sizes.

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C9PLA 4K OLED HDR Smart TV See the OLED difference for yourself. With advanced Pixel Level Dimming, OLED remains one of the best options for class-leading picture quality. Unlike LED screens, OLED doesn’t require backlighting, so the colour is consistent right across the screen, with greatly enhanced contrast levels. The C9 has the same 9 Gen 2 processor as flagship models, using AI to enhance picture and sound quality alike, ably supported by HDMI 2.1 and technologies including High Frame Rate and Dynamic HDR. It also features Dolby Atmos compatible sound, Apple AirPlay 2 and support for Apple TV app, and voice control: LG ThinQ AI integrates with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Available in 55", 65" or 77" screen sizes. “With its incredible colours, intense blacks and razor-thin panel, this is just another in a long line of totally brilliant OLEDs from LG.” – What Hi-Fi?

B9PLA 4K OLED HDR Smart TV Immerse yourself in a brilliant 4K OLED picture without breaking the bank. Unlike LED screens, OLED doesn’t require backlighting, so the colour is consistent right across the screen, with greatly enhanced contrast levels. The keenly priced B9 uses LG’s 7 Gen 2 processor with deep learning AI to enhance picture quality and optimise sound. Its HDMI 2.1 supports Dynamic HDR, improving the image frame by frame. Voice control and a 40W 2.2-channel built-in sound system complete the package. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

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SM8600PLA 4K LED HDR Smart TV This advanced LED screen incorporates Nano Cell technology: tiny 1nm nanoparticles applied to the pixels filter out dull colour, enhancing colour purity for a stunningly realistic visual experience. This means colour accuracy remains virtually unchanged over a 60° wide viewing angle, so everyone in the room can enjoy the highest quality images. LG’s 7 Gen 2 processor uses AI to improve picture and sound quality. ThinQ AI integrates with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for Smart voice control and there’s also support for Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple TV app. Available in 49", 55" or 65" screen sizes.

UM7660PLA 4K LED HDR Smart TV There’s a powerful Quad Core processor at the heart of this modestly priced LED television, optimising the picture with 4K Active HDR (support including HDR10 and HLG) for stunning detail and contrast, and upscaling Full HD content to near 4K clarity and detail, giving your Blu-rays a new lease of life. Meanwhile its quality IPS panel offers a wide viewing angle of up to 60° so the whole family benefits. This plus spacious DTS Virtual:X sound from the built-in speaker system make it a real crowd-pleaser. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

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UM7500PLA 4K LED HDR Smart TV Even smaller screen sizes and tight budgets can benefit from recent innovations. This television’s picture is optimised scene-by-scene with 4K Active HDR, incorporating support for HDR10 and HLG. Its Quad Core processor upscales content from Full HD too. Sound is immersive thanks to DTS Virtual:X. Meanwhile ThinQ AI Smart voice control uses artificial intelligence to decide which of your digital assistants should handle your command: the TV’s software, Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Available in 43" or 50" screen sizes.

SL10Y Dolby Atmos soundbar & subwoofer Give your home cinema screen a sonic upgrade with this 5.1.2-channel soundbar, which incorporates upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D surround sound effects. Digital processing, by British audio specialist Meridian, ensures precise positioning. It comes with a wireless subwoofer and you can add optional wireless rear surround speakers later at any time, without the need for trailing wires. As well as Hi-Res Audio support and Google Chromecast streaming, this top-of-the-range model has Google Assistant voice control built in.

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SK9Y Dolby Atmos soundbar & subwoofer This 500W soundbar features an upward-firing speaker array to capably deliver immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D sound and a wireless subwoofer for powerful bass. It reproduces cinematic 5.1.2-channel surround sound very capably but you can add wireless rear speakers at a later date if you wish. It’s a music system too, with Hi-Res Audio support built in. Stream music from your phone or tablet using Google Chromecast, including services such as Spotify and Deezer.

SL8YG Dolby Atmos soundbar & subwoofer Enjoy immersive home cinema sound from this 3.1.2 channel soundbar. The .1 stands for its wireless subwoofer, which you can position anywhere in the room for powerful bass. The .2 is the 3D element, with upwardsfiring speakers bouncing sound off the ceiling to place Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound effects above you. And the 3 are the front channels: left, right and centre. There are no sideways-firing speakers for rear channels but you can add wireless rear speakers at any time if you want full 5.1.2 surround sound. It also features Hi-Res Audio support, Google Chromecast streaming and built-in Google Assistant voice control. “Sound delivery is energetic and full-range.” – Home Cinema Choice

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SL7Y TV soundbar & subwoofer This 3.1-channel soundbar is slim but offers a significant sonic upgrade to any television. It does away with upward-firing speakers but offers DTS Virtual:X sound for ambient and overhead effects that place you in the middle of the action. If you want surround sound at a later date you can add wireless rear speakers. It comes with a wireless subwoofer for powerful bass and supports Hi-Res Audio and Google Chromecast streaming.

UBK90 UHD Blu-ray player UHD Blu-ray discs are the best way to enjoy your 4K HDR television’s full potential. This player promises the crisp detail of 4K resolution, the enhanced realism of HDR10 and Dolby Vision optimising the picture scene by scene. What’s more, it supports 4K streaming services including YouTube and Netflix, giving you even more 4K content to enjoy at its very best on the big screen.

WK7 Smart speaker This is LG’s first ever Smart speaker and also one of the first products to come out of its partnership with Meridian. The British audio specialist’s expertise in digital processing and speaker design make the WK7 one of the punchiest and most expansive-sounding speakers in its class. And it’s Smart: Google Assistant responds to your voice to request music, search the internet or command other Smart devices. LG ThinkQ and IoT (Android Things) help it communicate smoothly with a wide range of equipment in your Smart home.

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Hollywood to your home Panasonic uses all the technology at its disposal to deliver a home cinema experience that is exactly as the director intended. Its OLED and LED screens use the very latest innovations in HDR technology to paint a lifelike picture that has greater colour depth and optimised brightness than ever before. True to its ambition to bring “Hollywood to your home”, Panasonic has called on industry expertise from Tinseltown to ensure colouring authentically matches the director’s

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We have the knowledge on 4K TV» See pages 66-67

intentions. Meanwhile, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision are employed to great effect with scene-by-scene HDR mastering. Each image is optimised, so maximum detail is shown – even in the brightest or darkest moments. The outstanding pictures are complemented by elegant designs that turn heads even when the TV is turned off. Meanwhile, Panasonic’s UHD Blu-ray players ensure that you have the perfect 4K content to enjoy on the perfect big screen.

GZ2000B 4K OLED HDR Smart TV This Professional Edition display really delivers on Panasonic’s promise: Hollywood to your home. Its superior quality OLED panel expands the dynamic range for a brighter HDR picture, optimised by the Pro version of Panasonic’s HCX (Hollywood Cinema eXperience) processor and with Dolby Vision. The flagship model also boasts a Technics tuned, Dolby Atmos 140W speaker system, using built-in upwardand front-firing speakers to deliver immersive 3D sound. All this and a design that minimises the bezel and sits the screen on an elegant brushed aluminium stand – it’s the ultimate cinema screen. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

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GZ950B 4K OLED HDR Smart TV OLED’s self-illuminating pixels don’t need a backlight, which makes for an elegant slim screen but also accurate colour and superb brightness and contrast. This is driven by the Pro version of Panasonic’s HCX processor, tuned by leading Hollywood colourist Stefan Sonnenfeld, for a picture that remains true to the director’s vision. HDR support includes HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG, plus Dolby Vision so each scene is optimised. Immersive Dolby Atmos sound, streaming, Smart apps and compatibility with voice assistants complete the cinematic bill. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes. “Great value and with impressive sound, the Panasonic GZ950 should definitely be on your OLED shortlist.” – What Hi-Fi?

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GX800B 4K LED HDR Smart TV First used in Panasonic’s high-end OLED TVs, the GX800B’s HCX processor harnesses decades of Panasonic picture knowhow in a single chip, delivering impressive accuracy. Localised dimming boosts contrast to get the very best LED picture possible. This is complemented by HDR10+, HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision for remarkable colour depth, optimised for each and every scene. The TV also boasts Bluetooth streaming, Smart apps and voice control via a compatible Alexa or Google speaker. Available in 40", 50", 58" or 65" screen sizes. “Dolby Vision and HDR10+ in one affordable package.” – What Hi-Fi?

Panasonic TX-50GX800 June 2019

GX700B 4K LED HDR Smart TV This relatively affordable LED screen treats you to a great, lifelike picture thanks to technologies including Adaptive Backlight Dimming, which constantly analyses the incoming picture and adjusts light levels accordingly, for superb contrast: deeper black levels in darker scenes and vivid light in brighter scenes. Colour depth is also enhanced thanks to the scene-by-scene HDR mastering of HDR10+, which is supported along with HDR10 and HLG. And with premium UHD content, such as Netflix, Amazon and YouTube, it’s an absolute bargain. Available in 40", 50" or 65" screen sizes.

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& subwoofer

SC-HTB900 Dolby Atmos 3.1ch soundbar & subwoofer with Chromecast built-in Give your screen a serious home cinema sound upgrade with this Tuned by Technics 3.1-channel soundbar and wireless sub package. The bar is packed with six mid-range speakers and two tweeters. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for three-dimensional sound. Thanks to built-in Chromecast, it also quickly becomes the hub of your music streaming, with support for Hi-Res Audio and compatibility with popular services including Spotify, Google Play and Deezer.

SC-HTB700 Dolby Atmos 3.1ch soundbar & subwoofer Designed to suit TVs from 48" upwards, this sleek soundbar is unobtrusive and has built-in fixings for discrete wall mounting below your screen. Its highly rigid cabinet and 3.1-channel sound deliver exceptionally clear dialogue and an immersive wide soundstage, with the wireless sub adding bass oomph as required. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, to give the impression of sounds coming from above to give an atmospheric, room filling sound. And Bluetooth allows for wireless music streaming.

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DP-UB9000 UHD Reference Class Blu-ray Player Panasonic’s flagship UHD Blu-ray player is the most advanced you can buy, delivering a picture and sound that makes the very most of 4K screens and home cinema surround sound set-ups. Its HDR Optimiser adapts the output signal to suit your screen: OLED, LCD or projector. The result is vastly improved definition and colour gradation. It handles Dolby Vision and HDR10+ and is THX certified. 4K streaming services including Netflix ensure you’re never short of 4K content, while audio is capably handled by its new high-grade DAC and 7.1-channel analogue outputs. “A seriously capable machine for home cinema enthusiasts.” – What Hi-Fi?

Panasonic TX-50GX800 June 2019

DP-UB820 4K / UHD Blu-ray player This boasts many of the features of the flagship DP-UB9000, but in a more affordable package. Multi HDR support means it plays brilliantly with all the latest standards, including HDR10+ and Dolby Vision which optimise the picture scene by scene, plus standard HDR10 and HLG. And like the DP-UB9000 it offers HDR Optimiser, which adapts the output signal to suit the screen’s luminance. The result is a picture that’s tailored to look its best, with vastly improved definition and colour gradation. Outstanding for a Blu-ray player at this price. “When it comes to value for money, the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K player is a difficult proposition to beat.” – TrustedReviews

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Innovation + You Philips doesn’t just innovate for technology’s sake. It innovates for your sake. Over more than 120 years, Philips has grown to become a leading, highly trusted brand in markets all over the world. An innovation leader, Philips has been responsible for groundbreaking technologies in sound and vision,

from portable radios to digital formats, and Ambilight. In fact, Philips receives royalties from every single CD, DVD and Blu-ray sold – the discs themselves and the players and recorders. This rich history puts Philips at the heart of the home entertainment industry, perfectly placed to innovate to improve people’s lives with new technologies such as OLED.

OLED+ 934 (left) 4K OLED HDR Smart TV Philips’ newest OLED television is set to stun. Its crisp 4K resolution and lifelike HDR picture quality are truly brilliant, but what really makes this innovative TV stand out is its audio, developed with British audio specialists Bowers & Wilkins. The 934 has an elegant, why-didn’t-I-think-of-that design with an attractive soundbar floating below the screen, doubling as a stand (but designed to look great wall-mounted too).

OLED+ 984 (above) 4K OLED HDR Smart TV Its big sibling the OLED+ 984 (above) goes even further with a Bowers & Wilkins iconic tweeter-on-top design in pride of place between the screen and soundbar: it’s not just for show, it provides immaculate separation for dialogue. The 984 also features four-sided Ambilight, while the 934 features three. Simply stunning. OLED+ 934 & OLED+ 984 available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

Awarded to OLED+ 934

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Awarded to OLED+ 984

PUS7394 4K LED HDR Smart TV Family movie night. The big game. Whatever the occasion, settle down to superb picture quality and great sound. This Performance Series TV makes all your content look great, and boasts Ambilight for an immersive experience like no other. Philips Ambilight technology emits an extra-wide glow from three-sides of your TV screen onto the surrounding wall, so your whole room becomes part of the experience. The powerful P5 Perfect Picture Engine image processor delivers a beautifully sharp, lifelike image with deep blacks, bright whites and brilliant colours. HDR is fully supported with HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for scene-by-scene HDR optimisation. Add Smart TV and Google Assistant, which works with Alexa voice control devices, for a keenly priced cinematic marvel. Available in 43", 50" or 55" screen sizes.

OLED804 4K OLED HDR Smart TV

TAPB603/10 TV soundbar & subwoofer

HTL3320/10 TV soundbar & subwoofer

The P5 Pro Perfect Picture Engine uses next-level picture processing to get the very most out of this state-of-theart OLED panel, maximising its natural talents of strong contrast and vivid colour. The result is incredible realism with natural skin tones and textured landscapes. This is teamed with full compatibility with the latest HDR standards, superb motion processing and Ambilight immersive lighting on three sides, unique to Philips. Nothing transports you more into the heart of home cinema action.

Boost the sound from your television with this 300W 3.1-channel soundbar package, which includes a wireless subwoofer. Its sophisticated virtual surround sound uses advanced spatial algorithms to faithfully replicate the sonic characteristics of a 5.1-channel system. You get the impression of being truly surrounded without the need for rear speakers. It’s even Dolby Atmos compatible for the sensation of three-dimensional sound effects and truly room-filling sound.

At just 67mm high, this slender soundbar does an incredible job of discreetly boosting the sound from your slim television without dominating the room. It packs 300 watts of power and 3.1 channels to fill the room with cinematic sound. HDMI ARC means you can minimise wires while Bluetooth offers wireless music streaming.

Available in 55" or 60" screen sizes. “OLED plus Ambilight equals another Philips win.” – TechRadar

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Depth and detail like never before This year’s Samsung QLED televisions have taken their best and made it even better, with changes to backlighting technology to improve viewing angles. Many models benefit from its new Ultra Wide Viewing Angle technology, so you can experience perfect clarity wherever you sit. The range-topping 8K QLED plunges you into the most detailed perspective that makes you feel like you are living the scene. It uses AI machine learning to intelligently upscale your favourite shows to 8K resolution, analysing the source video and recreating accurate information about each pixel. Samsung’s entire range of 4K and 8K TVs offer HDR 10+ (and support HDR10 and HLG), delivering

unimaginable depth and shadow detail with unequalled brightness levels and 100% Colour Volume*. QLED delivers genuine cinematic colour made from over a billion colours and shades. Meanwhile smaller rooms and smaller budgets are well served by Samsung’s 4K LED models, while contemporary interiors will benefit from The Frame, which doubles as an elegant picture frame. Samsung also offers a supporting cast of Cinematic soundbars, with Acoustic Beam technology and speakers with Dolby Atmos and tuned by Harmon Kardon, to ensure your ears are served just as beautifully as your eyes.

Q950R (above) 8K QLED HDR 4000 powered by HDR10+ Smart TV Colour and detail are more real than ever, thanks to true 8K resolution and a brilliant supporting cast from Samsung. 8K offers four times the resolution of 4K for an incredibly sharp picture even on the largest screen sizes. AI upscaling uses machine learning to improve detail levels of non-8K content, rapidly comparing live image data with millions of picture formulae and then recreating the image texture, edge definition and level of detail at a much higher resolution of up to 8K. Meanwhile its Quantum Processor 8K automatically adapts to give you the very best sound and picture, and Q HDR 4000 optimises every frame, with deeper blacks, high brightness levels and captivating colour. Samsung’s Smart Hub gives you access to the best content from Apple TV, NOW TV, BT Sport Apps, and later this year BritBox. Browsing content is easy, including searching for your favourite programmes and movies while still watching TV. Whatever content you’re watching, the results are so lifelike they’re breathtaking.

“This is easily the best QLED model you can buy, but also a contender for the best TV currently available.” – TechRadar “The best king-sized TV pictures we’ve ever seen.” –TrustedReviews

Available in 55", 65", 75" or 82" screen sizes. Matching HW-Q90R soundbar available, see page 100 for more details. 100% Colour Volume measured to DCI-P3 standard, certified by VDE.

*

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Q90R 4K QLED HDR 2000 powered by HDR10+ Smart TV Samsung’s top-of-the-range 4K QLED model does not disappoint, with knockout picture quality thanks to HDR2000 for spectacular brightness, contrast and detail and 100% Colour Volume* for genuine cinematic colour made from over a billion colours and shades. Featuring the Ultra Wide Viewing Angle technology, allowing you to enjoy an outstanding image, regardless of where you sit. The screen’s good looks are complemented by its optical One Near-Invisible Cable and the One Connect Box, which you can tuck out of sight, leaving you with a stylish, minimal living space to enjoy. It’s also effortless to use thanks to the Bixby voice assistant and Smart Home voice controls, as well as ultra-high definition streaming, catch-up and games services thanks to Samsung’s superbly intuitive Smart Hub platform. Available in 55", 65" or 75" screen sizes.

HW-Q90R Harman Kardon Cinematic soundbar & subwoofer with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X No virtual trickery or sound processing, just truly immersive surround sound delivered by 17 custom-designed speakers, all powered by Samsung’s unique audio technologies and tuned by Harman Kardon. The soundbar comes with wireless rear speakers and subwoofer, so you can position them around the room without trailing cables. Front and rear upward firing speakers brings Dolby Atmos and DTS:X objectbased sound to life - hear the precise location of birds flying over your head or feel the rain falling from above and surrounding you. No other soundbar can place you in the heart of the action. It supports wireless music streaming and voice control too. “No other soundbar comes close in terms of object-based performance.” – TechRadar

“It could well be your dream screen and it’s definitely the best TV of 2019 so far.” – T3

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Q85R 4K QLED HDR 1500 powered by HDR10+ Smart TV This pared-down model brings you most of the benefits of Samsung’s flagship 4K screen, including Direct Full Array Plus backlighting, but at a keener price. Samsung's QLED is certified to deliver 100% Colour Volume* and is able to transform light into breathtaking colour without degradation over time. These latest models also boast Ultra Wide Viewing Angle so you can enjoy a great view from anywhere in the room. It looks fantastic and its One Near-Invisible Cable and One Connect Box banish clutter, so you’re looking at the screen and nothing else. Samsung’s Smart Hub completes the package perfectly, offering the very best content on-demand. Enjoy super-fast response times, as you toggle between apps, online services and live TV with ease. Available in 55", 65" or 75" screen sizes. “Much of the excellent picture performance of Samsung’s 2019 flagship TV range – but at a substantially cheaper price.” – TrustedReviews

Q80R 4K QLED HDR 1500 powered by HDR10+ Sat bang in the middle of Samsung’s 4K QLED range, the Q80R hits the perfect balance between features and value for money. As well all the benefits of QLED technology and its vivid HDR1500 picture, the television’s new, improved wide viewing angle is especially impressive. You also get Bixby voice assistant and Smart Home controls, as well as Samsung’s Smart Hub platform – with the best content from Apple TV, NOW TV, BT Sport Apps and coming later this year is BritBox. Ambient Mode blends the TV to your wall when not in use, and the stand design is simple, elegant and incorporates cable management. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes. “Samsung considers the Q80 series to represent the value / technology sweet spot of its entire QLED range.” – Stuff

HW-Q80R Harman Kardon Cinematic soundbar & subwoofer with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Enjoy true home cinema surround sound without the need for rear speakers with this elegant Samsung soundbar and sub package, designed to perfectly complement the latest Samsung QLED televisions including the Q80R and Q85R. Its 13 custom-designed speakers are powered by Samsung’s unique audio technologies and tuned by Harman Kardon. Upwards-firing speakers bring Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based sound technology to life with stunning 3D realism, great for movies and games. Side-firing speakers on each end of the soundbar surround you from front to rear, placing you right in the heart of the action for a totally immersive experience. It also supports wireless streaming and voice control. “…a system that sounds excellent, with music, TV shows, games, and movies, making it a great all-rounder.” – AVForums

100% Colour Volume measured to DCI-P3 standard, certified by VDE.

*

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Q70R 4K QLED HDR 1000 powered by HDR10+ Smart TV This is the most affordable model in the QLED range to offer a direct backlight. HDR1000 offers superb brightness and contrast for the price, with QLED’s 100% Colour Volume* promising genuine cinematic colour made from over a billion colours and shades. Ultra-high definition streaming and games are made possible by Samsung’s Smart Hub, a superbly intuitive platform. Browse content easily, searching for your favourite programmes and movies while you are still watching TV. It truly is remarkable for the price, at any screen size. Bixby voice assistant, Smart Home controls and cable management complete the bill. Available in 49", 55", 65", 75" or 82" screen sizes. “The Q70 is a cracking QLED all-rounder that’s worth checking out.” – TechRadar

HW-Q70R Harman Kardon Cinematic soundbar & subwoofer with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X As hinted at by the model name, this soundbar and sub package is designed to be the perfect match for Samsung’s Q70R QLED television. Eight custom-designed speakers, tuned by Harman Kardon, deliver exceptional surround sound. The soundbar features a pair of upwards-firing speakers that bring Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based sound technology to life with stunning 3D realism. Meanwhile its compact, wireless subwoofer ensures home cinema sound is punchy without the need for trailing wires. Feel the roar of a sports car on the open road or hear the noise of the stadium crowd cheering around you. Games with Dolby Atmos technology, powered by our Game Mode Pro technology, take an immersive gaming experience to a new level. And the best bit? It’s all configured automatically for you. “This good-looking and well-specified soundbar is ideal for both movies and gaming.” – TechRadar

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We have the knowledge on QLED TV» See pages 68-69

Q60R 4K QLED HDR powered by HDR10+ Smart TV

HW-Q60R Harman Kardon Cinematic soundbar & subwoofer

There are many good things to say about QLED, but one is that – unlike OLED – you can get the technology in smaller screen sizes for smaller spaces, or for anyone who just prefers a smaller screen. You’ll still benefit from QLED’s brightness and contrast levels on this smaller, more affordable TV. As well as HDR1000, you get Bixby voice assistant, Smart Home controls, Samsung’s Smart Hub for the very best on-demand content, and integrated cable management.

This slender compact soundbar with wireless subwoofer delivers cinematic sound without dominating your space. Sound is superb for the size, thanks to eight Samsung drivers, tuned by Harman Kardon. Acoustic Beam technology steers sound around your room, immersing you in the action of a movie or game and putting you in the crowd at a concert. You can also stream music wirelessly to the soundbar.

Available in 43", 49", 55", 65" or 82" screen sizes. “An easy-to-use way to introduce myriad streaming solutions to your hi-f‌i system.” – What Hi-Fi?

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The Frame Art Mode QLED 4K HDR Smart TV Samsung’s game-changing picture frame TV is updated with a QLED panel for the first time, for the best ever picture. You can customise content on The Frame to match your style and enjoy artwork or photography when the TV is off. Simply change the artwork any time with a simple upload from your phone** or a USB flash drive. You can also change the surround: co-ordinate The Frame to suit your home, taste or artwork with a customisable bezel***. Meanwhile its One Near-Invisible Cable and One Connect Box banish clutter, so you only focus on the picture itself. Features include No-Gap Wall Mount (which comes in-box) to mount The Frame TV flush to the wall, just like a framed painting or photo, Samsung’s Smart Hub, Smart Home control and even a Motion Sensor**** which detects your presence and turns the screen on, so your favourite art is displayed whenever there’s someone in the room. Available in 43", 55" or 65" screen sizes; black, white, light wood or dark wood frame.

Compatible with any Android or iOS smartphone. Smart View app download required. Images under 800x800px can't be uploaded. Each customisable frame is sold separately. Motion Sensor operates only in Art Mode. Performance may vary depending on the lighting condition.

**

***

****

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We have the knowledge on QLED TV» See pages 68-69

RU8000 4K UHD Smart TV powered by HDR10+

RU7400 4K UHD Smart TV powered by HDR10+

4K resolution and a bright UHD 4K picture together make the RU8000 a compelling proposition if you want a big screen on a budget. Samsung’s Dynamic Colour Crystal engine, with a palette of more than a billion colours for a vibrant picture, is teamed with HDR10+ for superb depth and contrast from the edge-lit LED screen. It also offers Bixby voice assistant and Smart Home control. Samsung’s Universal Guide lets you discover great content with tailored recommendations just for you.

A superb value, edge-lit LED screen that shows how far television technology has come in recent years. This is the step up entry-level model in Samsung’s new 4K range, yet its bright, vivid picture won’t disappoint. As well as HDR10+ (with HDR10 and HLG support) for superb depth and contrast, it boasts features including Bixby voice assistant, Smart Hub and Smart Home control. Available in 43", 50", 55" or 65" screen sizes.

Available in 49", 55", 65" or 82" screen sizes.

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VLF728 Advanced full-motion premium TV mount Enjoy your big TV at the best possible viewing angle with this flexible bracket. Thanks to its dual-arm design, it supports screen sizes of 42-90" and up to 57kg in weight. The ultra-strong, solid steel frame has a cantilever design that you can pull away and extend from the supporting wall by just over 71cm / 28". You can even tilt and swivel to get the viewing angle just right, perfect for awkward corners. When the mount is not extended, it can sit as close as 5.4cm / 2.1" to the wall, complementing your sleek TV with a thin profile. Despite the TV screen’s weight, movement is smooth thanks to FluidMotion™ technology, and SteadySet™ means it stays put once you’ve got the position right. Meanwhile a cable channel keeps everything tidy, whether extended or flat to the wall. Available in brushed stainless black or silver steel finishes.

Enhancing the latest TV technology SANUS produces all the little – and large – essentials that support your home hi-fi and AV setup. Everything from TV mounts to large cabinets and racks for high-end installs. SANUS equipment combines high-end design with industry leading performance, protecting your television and making your home cinema set-up more flexible and stylish.

reflections, or when the TV’s natural location is in an awkward corner or mounted higher than eye level.

Its full-motion TV brackets extend, retract, tilt and swivel to bring the best viewing angle to every seat in the room. You can adjust the TV’s position to make seating more flexible, when lights and windows will otherwise cause

These high-quality TV brackets make adjusting the position of even a large screen easy and help the TV blend seamlessly with your decor. You can even make small adjustments to the mount placement after installation to be sure your TV is in the perfect place. The different colour options also mean that your TV and the mount will look like on beautifully designed unit. Plus all SANUS brackets come with a ten-year warranty, for true peace of mind.

VSF716 Advanced full-motion premium TV mount

VMF720 Advanced full-motion premium TV mount

This is the perfect wall bracket for smaller TVs. It offers near universal compatibility thanks to the rare VESA 75x75 fit, as well as the more common 100x100, 200x100 and 200x200 fittings. The bracket supports screen sizes of 19-40" and up to 16kg weight. Its twin arms let you pull the TV away from the supporting wall by nearly 41cm, then tilt and swivel at will, to suit any space. With FluidMotion™ technology, moving the mount to the right spot is incredibly smooth. Then SteadySet™ ensures it stays put in the perfect position. A cable channel keeps things neat at all times, and you can choose to match the mount colour to your TV for a subtle and clean finish.

Get the perfect viewing angle from medium-sized TV screens with this cantilever bracket. It supports screen sizes of 32-55" and up to 25kg in weight. It works with a huge range of VESA fittings, for near-universal compatibility. Enjoy the screen flat to the wall or adjust it to wherever you want: it pulls out effortlessly by just over 50cm thanks to the FluidMotion™ technology. You can even tilt and swivel to get the viewing angle just right, perfect for alcoves and awkward corners, while SteadySet™ ensures it stays put in the correct position. The mount folds back to hold the TV just over 2" / 5cm from the wall, plus a cable channel keeps everything neat and tidy to emphasise the clean look. The two different finishes mean you can choose the option that best suits your TV and your décor.

Available in brushed stainless black or silver steel finishes.

Available in brushed stainless black or silver steel finishes.

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We have the knowledge on TVs» See pages 66-69

SOUND R|Evolution American brand SVS rumbled onto the audio scene to challenge the status quo of overpriced, underperforming “high-end” subwoofers and speakers and to bring convincing and immersive sound to more people than ever before. The SVS mission is to re-energize people’s desire for awesome sound by bringing passion, fun and expertise back into to the mix.

room, audio system and budget. Its subwoofers stand alone as the reference standard for bass. Its subs effortlessly produce the lowest frequencies at the highest output levels while maintaining pinpoint accuracy and speed in transients, and blending seamlessly with all speakers. Music, movies and TV shows become more convincing and every audio experience takes on an added energy and feeling with an SVS subwoofer anchoring the low end.

PB-1000 Subwoofer

SB-3000 Subwoofer

PB-4000 Subwoofer

SB16-ULTRA Subwoofer

The SB-3000 hits new lows. Reference subwoofer performance has never been available at this price from a cabinet of this size. An all-new 13" high-excursion SVS driver and 800W RMS, 2500W+ peak power Sledge amplifier with fully discrete MOSFET output unleash deep and thunderous low-frequency output with revealing clarity and flawless tonal accuracy to delight hardcore audiophiles and home cinema fans alike. This sealedcabinet design outperforms much larger subs and commands a room sonically without taking over visually. Smartphone app control of the sophisticated DSP (Digital Signal Processor) lets you fine tune bass from the comfort of your listening position.

SVS 4000 Series subwoofers demolish all preconceived notions about subwoofer performance and technology by unleashing reference calibre bass at a breakthrough value, thanks to trickle-down technology from the 16-Ultra Series. The PB-4000 offers staggering lowfrequency output and subterranean deep bass extension down to 13Hz with an amazing degree of subtlety and finesse to thrill action movie buffs and ardent audiophiles. A smartphone app gives precise control of all DSP functions via Bluetooth, leaving you free to position the sub anywhere.

The 16-Ultra Series are the biggest and most powerful subwoofers SVS has ever built, the culmination of all its engineering advancements. All-new driver (16" with unprecedented 8" edge-wound voice coil), amplifier (1500W continuous, 5000W+ peak power Class D Sledge amp with fully discrete MOSFET output), cabinet (double-thick MDF front baffle and internal bracing to keep the driver solid as a rock) and app control combine to achieve unprecedented output levels, extreme low frequency extension, near-perfect frequency response accuracy, and pinpoint transient response.

Available in gloss black or black oak.

Available in gloss black or black oak.

“There is nothing this excellent subwoofer can’t do. It’s a bit of a bargain when you consider its build quality, features and performance, making it hard to really find fault.” – AV Forums

“A thrilling combination of slam, speed and precision, with low-frequency extension that unearths the deepest soundtrack details...” – AVTech

SVS makes a variety of ported and sealed home subwoofers to fit every

Available in gloss black or black ash. “SVS takes the performance-first ethos of its higher-end models and brings it to a new, lower price point...For those seeking a sub offering both power and precision, this difficult to resist.” – EISA Home Theatre Subwoofer of the Year

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The SVS 1000 Series changed the game by bringing legitimate, world-class subwoofer performance to a new level of affordability. This ported sub is compact and commanding with astonishing power and is well-equipped to serve as the sonic foundation of any music or home cinema system. Its modest 10" woofer with tuned bass port and punchy 300W output deliver a bass far deeper than you’d expect from a sub of this size, dropping right down to a staggering 19Hz. Available in black ash. “The PB-1000 produces the kind of forceful, yet detailed bass that we would expect from more powerful and certainly more expensive subwoofers.” – AV Forums

We have the knowledge on home cinema» See pages 72-73

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Video audio harmony Sony is a leading global manufacturer of audio, video, communications and TV products. Its mission is to bring together new and emerging, as well as existing, technologies, content and services in unprecedented ways to re-shape our perception of the world and enhance our lives. From streaming hi-fi receivers to huge 4K TVs and projectors, from high-end headphones to multimedia games consoles, Sony is at the cutting-edge of home entertainment.

Sony is spread wide across the world of entertainment. It doesn’t just make the equipment that plays movies, music and video games, it actually produces them too. Because of this deep understanding and experience of different media, Sony is uniquely placed to deliver you the most enjoyable experiences.

BRAVIA AG9 4K OLED HDR Smart TV Sony’s flagship BRAVIA television uses more than 8 million self-illuminating OLED pixels to stunning effect. They’re controlled by the top of the range X1 Ultimate Picture Processor, which detects and analyses individual objects and adjusts the contrast, detail and colour to make the most lifelike scene possible. The processor also upscales HD images to 4K, bringing new life to your Blu-ray collection and other non-4K content. HDR support includes HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision for superior contrast and realism, with the picture continually optimised, scene by scene. The design is complemented perfectly by innovative Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. This ‘+’ version not only turns the screen into a speaker with improved bass over standard version, it can also be used as a centre speaker in your surround sound setup. Available in 55", 65" or 77" screen sizes. “With the AG9, Sony has honed an almost irresistible OLED champion.” – Tech Radar

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We have the knowledge on OLED TVs» See pages 68-69

BRAVIA AG8 4K OLED HDR Smart TV This crisp OLED screen delivers sensational image quality thanks to self-illuminating pixels for outstanding contrast and realism: blacks are far deeper than LED displays and corresponding whites much brighter. This 4K TV uses Sony’s X1 Extreme processor, which packs 40% more real-time image processing than the standard X1 processor. It analyses every signal and optimises it for the best performance possible, as well as upscaling HD images to 4K. HDR support includes HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision. Android TV, YouView and support for voice assistants complete the impressive features list. Finally, its minimal look is made possible by clever Acoustic Surface Audio technology, which turns the screen into a speaker, for a clean design and sound that comes from precisely the right place. Available in 55" or 65" screen sizes.

BRAVIA XG9505 4K LED HDR Smart TV

BRAVIA XG8505BU 4K HDR LED Smart TV

Sony’s flagship processor, the X1 Ultimate, intelligently enhances the brightness of hundreds of different picture elements, giving incredibly realistic and detailed images. The X1 Ultimate is also the power behind upscaling HD images to 4K, bringing new life to your Blu-ray collection and other non-4K content. The television uses a full-array LED backlight with ultra-dense structure for the most effective LED screen yet, with superb brightness control giving deeper blacks, dazzling whites and truer colour between. This is ably supported by X-Motion Clarity for fast-moving action and HDR support including HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision. The LED screen to beat.

This surprisingly affordable LED television has brains as well as beauty. Its sophisticated X1 processor takes account of the fact that not all 4K signals are equal. A RAW 4K signal from a UHD Blu-ray player requires different processing from a Netflix 4K or a USB video signal. The X1 analyses every signal and optimises it for the best performance possible. Meanwhile Sony’s X-Reality PRO 4K technology upscales HD content to 4K for stunning clarity. The true 100Hz screen uses Motionflow XR 800Hz processing for smoother action, while HDR support including HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision offers a superb, lifelike picture.

Available in 55", 65", 75" or 85" screen sizes.

Available in 55", 65" or 75" screen sizes.

“Not far off flagship performance for much less than flagship money.” – What Hi-Fi?

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HT-ST5000 Dolby Atmos 7.1.2 soundbar & subwoofer This soundbar and wireless subwoofer package boasts sophisticated processing and upwards-firing speakers to deliver Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound and DTS:X object-based sound technology. The result is a truly immersive, cinematic sound experience. Coaxial speakers help deliver a precisely aligned soundstage while keeping the unit as compact as possible. Hugely immersive sound doesn’t get much more accessible than this. It also supports Hi-Res Audio and wireless music streaming via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Sony’s ultimate soundbar gives sound a whole new dimension. “The first Dolby Atmos soundbar that we’d have no hesitation in recommending.” – What Hi-Fi?

HT-ZF9 (also featured above) Dolby Atmos 3.1 soundbar & subwoofer This slim soundbar uses just three front speaker drivers, plus a wireless subwoofer, to deliver an incredibly immersive sound from a compact 3.1 channel package. Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine offers advanced signal processing that converts any audio signal into a pseudo 7.1.2 channel signal – totally surrounding you. It’s compatible with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, reproducing ‘vertical‘ audio to give truly uplifting sound, but because the speakers don’t fire sound directly upwards, it doesn’t matter how high or what shape your ceiling is, making it truly room-friendly. Plus, this soundbar is ‘smart‘ in more ways than one: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless music playback and voice-control from a compatible smartphone complete the package. Stunning, immersive results from a slender soundbar.

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We have the knowledge on soundbars>» See pages 74-77

STR-DN1080 Dolby Atmos AV receiver Sony has put its all into this AV receiver and it shows. It has added support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, for 3D and object-based, immersive surround sound, to an already impressive set of features. It also easily adapts these formats to your speaker configuration. Power is impressive, capable of outputting 165W per channel at 6 ohms, for great flexibility in your choice of speakers and room size. It’s optimised for 4K and HDR, with flexible HDMI connectivity on all six inputs and both outputs, supporting the very latest standards. 4K pass-through, 4K upscaling, bi-amping, Hi-Res Audio support and wireless streaming are all there too. If you don’t believe us, believe the critics. As well as winning the Product of the Year award three years in a row, the receiver has been inducted into What Hi-Fi? Magazine’s Hall of Fame – a list reserved for the most important and influential products of all time. “The STR-DN1080 remains an unbeatable AV amplifier at this price.” – What Hi-Fi?

UBP-X800M2 UHD Blu-ray player This updated version of Sony’s first UHD Blu-ray player makes the very most of your 4K television, with superb image quality and support for the latest formats. HDR, HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision produce a vivid picture thanks to a far broader colour palette. Conventional HD Blu-ray discs are upscaled to make the most of 4K TVs, giving improved detail and realism. The player also supports the best movie sound formats. When used with a suitable multichannel sound system, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provide sensational audio, with 3D and object-based imaging for a totally immersive sound. As a step-up from the awrd-winning UBP-X700, this UHD Blu-ray player offers superior build quality, reducing vibrations and improving the overall fidelity of your entertainment. It also plays CD, SACD, DVD-A and DVD and supports Hi-Res Audio music streaming.

UBP-X700 UHD Blu-ray player UHD Blu-ray discs are a sure-fire way to get a pin-sharp picture on your 4K screen and this surprisingly affordable player is just the ticket. It HDR compatibility includes HDR10 and Dolby Vision for wide-ranging compatibility with the latest high resolution video formats. Both technologies produce the sharpest resolution, with eye-popping levels of detail and realism. It also supports 4K HDR streaming and can upscale HD content from regular Blu-rays to look great in 4K, not to mention a whole host of the latest audio formats, including Dolby Atmos. You can even control it with smartphone or tablet as well as the supplied remote. “An impressive 4K Blu-ray player at an affordable price.” – What Hi-Fi?

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WF-1000XM3 Wireless noise-cancelling in-ear headphones Sony’s in-ear, Bluetooth earbuds are compact and musical, but what really sets them apart from the pack is their active noise cancellation. The powerful Sony processor not only cancels more background noise across all frequencies but also does so using less power – helping maximise battery life. With less background noise, you get to enjoy the music more and won’t need to turn the volume up to 11. Meanwhile digital sound is enhanced, upsampling compressed music files for a fuller, richer sound. The tiny 6mm drivers deliver a rich, clear and enveloping sound from all sources, with app control to fine tune the sound and noise cancellation levels. It supports voice assistants and the travel case extends battery life to more than 24 hours. Available in black or silver. “A new benchmark for true wireless earbuds, the WF-1000XM3s combine effective active noise-cancelling with a real sense of musicality.” – What Hi-Fi?

WH-1000XM3 Wireless noise-cancelling over-ear headphones These Bluetooth, over-ear, closed-back headphones take you even deeper into silence, with further improvements to Sony’s industry-leading noise cancellation. Control ambient sound settings and adjust levels with the Sony Headphones Connect app equaliser. Sony’s LDAC offers around three times more detail than ordinary Bluetooth headphones, while the addition of an analogue amp has given these award-winners an even purer, more involving sound quality. Add 30-hour battery life and voice assistant compatibility and you have an unbeatable pair of headphones. Available in black or silver. “As close to the perfect pair of noise-cancelling headphones as it’s currently possible to find.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on headphones» See pages 32-35

PS-LX310BT Bluetooth turntable

PS-HX500 USB turntable

Truly a turntable for the 21st Century, this features a Bluetooth connection so you can play records directly via a wireless speaker or a pair of headphones with no need for a hi-fi system. Alternatively, its built-in phono stage and wired output let you plug it into the AUX input on any system. Its aluminium platter, belt drive and aluminium tube tonearm give consistent results with low distortion and vibration. Automatic controls mean you can simply press a button rather than manually lowering and raising the tonearm: less hassle for you and kinder to your vinyl.

This encapsulates the very best of old and new technologies by being able to record from vinyl to DSD Hi-Res Audio. Solid build and a high-quality tonearm offer excellent sound reproduction. The signal is run through an ADC (Analogue-to-Digital Converter, the opposite of a DAC) and then into your laptop or PC’s USB for recording in Hi-Res, up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM or DSD128, ready to be enjoyed anywhere. A built-in phono stage lets you enjoy analogue vinyl simply by plugging into any hi-fi aux input too. “An entertaining turntable unique in its ability to rip vinyl to Hi-Res files.” – What Hi-Fi?

“For those wanting a fully automatic deck with built-in phono stage, it’s one of the best we’ve heard.” – What Hi-Fi?

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We have the knowledge on turntables» See pages 28-29

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With

Introducing portable LED projectors with Harman Kardon speakers

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For 30 years, ViewSonic has been at the forefront of display technology. The American-Taiwanese firm started out making computer monitors but then moved into flat screens, digital whiteboards and projectors. Its range of portable projectors are ridiculous feats of miniaturisation

that don’t compromise on features or performance. Their industrial design is impressive too, with both the projectors featured here having scooped iF Design Awards for their good looks and great usability.

M1+ Smart palm-sized projector

X10-4K 4K short throw Smart projector

Want a big screen you can carry in a pocket? This ultraportable M1+ projector is the size of a paperback book, yet it can put a 60" image on a wall or ceiling from only 1.6 meters away thanks to its short throw ratio. The lamp life is up to 30,000 hours of use and battery life is a respectable 6 hours. The M1+’s clever, space-saving design includes a lens cover that turns into a stand. And its dual, built-in Harman Kardon speakers sound surprisingly good for the size. Integrated Wi-Fi connectivity lets you stream from your favourite content providers – making the M1+ a great option for sharing and displaying videos and other multimedia content. Versatile connectivity options include a MicroSD card slot, USB Type-A, and USB Type-C, making the M1+ a great option for sharing and displaying videos and other multimedia content. It’s a handy tool for business presentations but it’s also perfect for impromptu movie or gaming nights.

Combining stunning 4K resolution with smart streaming functionality and a portable design, the ViewSonic X10-4K LED portable projector delivers a cinema-like experience in just about any room. With a lightweight design, easy carry handle, and short throw lens, the X10-4K can be conveniently moved from room to room, indoors to outdoors. Integrated Wi-Fi connectivity lets you stream from your favourite content providers, while support for both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant deliver the convenience of voice control. Dual integrated speakers by Harman Kardon deliver vibrant and powerful sound for an all-round immersive experience whether you’re watching movies, music videos, or listening to a live concert. Furthermore, the X10-4K also serves as a Bluetooth speaker - just connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and indulge in acoustic heaven. In sum, the X10-4K delivers big pictures in a small package.

“A portable home theater rig in a sub 2lb package.” – ProjectorCentral.com

“An eclectic combo of craftsmanship, intuitive UX and intricate design make this a vogue piece of urban art.” – iF World Design Award

We have the knowledge on projectors» See pages 70-71

Vogel’s gives support in life since 1973 Vogel’s has produced sophisticated TV accessories for over 45 years. For the last two decades they have made design-orientated, highly functional TV wall mounts. This Dutch company pays special attention to top quality and innovation, providing solutions for LED and OLED TV. Your OLED TV – stylish, minimalistic and with a crystal-clear picture – deserves a perfect wall mount. OLED TV screens are extremely thin. If you want to mount this screen on a full-motion TV mount, you must be sure that you can turn the screen smoothly. Based on many years of experience, Vogel’s has developed full-motion wall mounts that are smooth, even with such a thin OLED screen. A Vogel’s OLED wall mount is the finishing touch for your screen. • Fits perfectly on your OLED TV. • Your thin TV flush against the wall.

Next 7355 (above) Full-motion motorised TV wall mount For perfect positioning of your large TV screen every time, this hi-tech motorised bracket will wow – simply adjust via an iOS or Android app over Bluetooth. You can even program it to automatically position itself when you turn the TV on, and set it to reset itself back to the wall when you turn it off. Adjustment is a generous 60° left or right and it folds back to just 71mm off the wall. It fits most 40" to 65" TVs, weighing up to 30kg.

• Smoothly turn your fragile OLED screen to the perfect viewing angle. Manual or automatic.

All Vogel’s TV mounts are TÜV certified and tested at 3 times the maximum weight. Next 7356 Full-motion motorised OLED TV wall mount • Fits 40" to 65" OLED TVs weighing up to 30kg. Also available for regular TV screens (Next 7355).

Next 7346 Full-motion OLED TV wall mount • Fits 40" to 65" OLED TVs weighing up to 30kg. • Vogel’s lifetime guarantee.

Thin 546 ExtraThin full-motion OLED TV wall mount • Fits 40" to 65" OLED TVs weighing up to 30kg. • Vogel’s lifetime guarantee.

Thin 550 ExtraThin full-motion TV bracket This mount allows you to turn your TV up to a maximum of 120 degrees.

Wall 3305 Ultra Strong Flat to Wall TV mount

• Fits 40" to 100" TVs weighing up to 70kg. • Ultra strong TV mount.

• Fits 40" to 100" TVs weighing up to 80kg.

• Vogel’s lifetime guarantee.

• Vogel’s lifetime guarantee.

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We have the knowledge on TVs» See pages 66-69

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Discover true sound at home Yamaha’s roots are in sound and music – the company started out making reed organs more than 125 years ago. With expertise gained from decades of dedication to sound and music, Yamaha is committed to creating audio-visual inspiration and excitement around the world. Yamaha is inspired by new technologies and their applications – enriching products with technology and passion to improve performance of sound and music.

The company remains at the forefront of audio technology, including award-winning digital wireless products and pioneering soundbars. With so many of the world’s leading musicians using Yamaha instruments to perform and record their music, it makes perfect sense to choose Yamaha audio products for your own listening at home.

RX-A3080 Dolby Atmos AV receiver 9.2 channels of power for superb flexibility. Go for the ultimate 5.2.4 Dolby Atmos or DTS:X home cinema system with four ceiling speakers, stick with two ceiling or upwards-firing speakers but add extra effect speakers for an immersive 7.2.2 system, or pick another permutation – spare channels can be used for a second zone (there’s an independent second HDMI too). At its heart are state-of-the-art 32-bit Sabre DACs for immaculate detail and it’s powerful, delivering 150W per channel. It also features MusicCast, which means it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, lets you add wireless rear speakers and of course adds streaming and multiroom. Outstanding.

YAS-209 TV soundbar & subwoofer Yamaha is famous for its home cinema soundbars and this modestly priced model, which comes complete with 100W wireless sub, shows you why. As well as discreetly upgrading your television’s sound it features built-in Amazon Alexa for voice control, DTS Virtual:X for immersive virtual 3D surround sound and Bluetooth wireless streaming.

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We have the knowledge on surround sound» See pages 72-73

MusicCast VINYL 500 Network turntable Love vinyl records & streaming your favourites? The MusicCast VINYL 500 includes everything you need, combining audiophile vinyl playback and Hi-Res streaming in one neat package. Features include a built-in phono stage, so it doesn’t require a phono pre-amplifier, and an Audio-Technica cartridge. Music streaming services are also built in; you can even command them via Amazon Alexa voice control. And MusicCast compatibility means you can connect to speakers wirelessly for a stunning sound without clutter. Available in black or white.

MusicCast 20 Smart speaker This 40W wireless speaker delivers dynamic sound much bigger than you’d expect from something so compact. Popular music streaming services are built in, as is compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control. Being in the MusicCast family means you can use it for multiroom, in pairs for stereo or even as wireless rear speakers in a MusicCast surround set-up. And at just 15cm wide, it’s also the perfect size for the bedside, which is handy because it boasts an alarm clock function.

MusicCast R-N803D Network stereo receiver Enjoy stereo at its best thanks to Yamaha’s Top-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) concept, with symmetrical circuit layouts for perfect channel balance and the shortest signal paths for reduced distortion. The low-vibration chassis features a resin frame that damps vibrations, giving you a crisp and clear sound. A top-quality ESS Sabre 9006AS DAC ensures digital sources are processed to the highest standards and MusicCast offers app control and multiroom music. Enjoy everything from vinyl (thanks to its phono stage) to popular Hi-Res streaming services in the very finest quality.

MusicCast CRX-N470D Streaming mini system Play almost anything with this little marvel. It incorporates DAB/FM tuner and CD player along with all the benefits of a MusicCast system. So you get Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, compatibility with popular music services including Spotify Connect, app control and – Yamaha’s best trick – the option of incorporating it into a multiroom system all around your home. What’s more, you get to enjoy your music in beautiful detail through your choice of hi-fi speakers. Available in black or silver. “Yamaha’s attractive mini hi-fi is a detailed, musical performer.” – What Hi-Fi?

richersounds.com

We have the knowledge on hi-fi» See pages 18-19

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Artist featured: RAHH www.iamrahh.com

m o r f c i s u m w e n d n a r b Discover s t s i t r a g n i g r e m e 0 0 0 over 3, t-for-prof‌it ed, our no n ig s n U r e h you Ric red music s e g v o in r c b is s d d n n u u t Richer So with the bes m r fo t la p e il and enjoy. b o o t m n e d t n s a li e o t it webs pletely free m o c – r e ff o Check out www.richerunsigned.com the UK has to At Richer Sounds, music is in our blood and, as such, we’ve committed to using our brand and contacts to help talented musicians reach a wider audience. Richer Unsigned champions ALL musicians; those who may be just getting started, who have been in the industry a while or simply don’t have a great label deal. As long as the music is great, we’ll do all we can to get talent heard!

Listen to our playlist on your favourite streaming service

RicherUnsigned

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Richerunsigned.com features new music playlists ready to be played on your mobile device or hi-f‌i. We also host album launches and live sessions to give artists the platform they need to grow. What’s more, it’s absolutely free for both the bands and listeners. So why not check out richerunsigned.com now!

RicherUnsigned

Richer Unsigned

Richer-Unsigned

@RicherUnsigned

richerunsigned

Richer Unsigned

Join the Richer Sounds VIP Club FREE today and receive a fantastic set of privileges.

Hugh, Deputy Manager, Weybridge store. 6th year of service.

P

VI

We’ve got you covered for longer

We’re open for you, 8am-8pm

VIP-only discounts

6 Year Guarantee included for VIP Club members on the vast majority of TVs, projectors & wireless multiroom systems.

VIP Club members can book demos and shop by appointment between these times, Mon – Fri.

Special VIP Club savings on selected products in our catalogue, our emails, our website and in-store.

Sign up in-store or online in seconds, free of charge, with just an email address. richersounds.com

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Visiting Richer Sounds

Before you visit Here are our tips on what to think about before you come to one of our stores

“With a little prep, we’ll ensure you have an even better experience when you visit. Looking forward to seeing you in one of our stores soon!” Daniel, Senior Sales Advisor, Kingston store. 3rd year of service

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All our stores feature home-styled Experience Rooms: the perfect place to try out and compare products, from budget gear to the latest highend reference equipment. You can even compare projectors side by side. Sit in comfort and discover the system that’s right for you.

Bring your headphones, your existing equipment, your friend who knows everything there is to know about music, movies and gaming, your neighbour’s dog… basically anything or anyone you need to help you make the best decision. If you have none of these (and even if you do!), then of course, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Just call to arrange a no-obligation demonstration at a time that suits you. We also offer free home and place of work visits (10 mile radius, negotiable at manager’s discretion), so if you have difficulty getting to a store, a demonstration can often be arranged at your choice of venue instead.

Hi-Fi

Home Cinema

TVs and Projectors

We can talk you through turntables, CD players, Hi-Res Audio players and much more. The best way to hear the difference is with familiar music.

From streaming to 4K/UHD Blu-ray, we can help you get the most from your entertainment.

Many factors affect your choice of screen type, its size and its set-up. Here are some things to consider.

1. All of our stores have music streaming subscriptions, so the chances are we’ve got all your favourite tracks ready to go. If you have favourite LPs, eclectic CDs or Hi-Res digital music, bring them with you, or let us know your preferences in advance and we’ll see what we have in our collection.

1. A  gain, please tell us about the size and shape of your room so we can get the sound set-up right.

1. How many people will usually be watching the TV or projector, and how far back will they sit?

2. Tell us about your set-up. Bring a list of your existing equipment, a note of room sizes, even tell us about furnishings and other noise – it all helps. 3. How do you listen to music? How would you like to listen to it? If you’d like to stream music around your home or add other conveniences, we can do that, too.

2. Tell us what you want to watch, how you watch it and who in the household will be using the system. For example, would you like to be able to set recordings remotely or enjoy them on the move? 3. A  re you thinking of a dedicated home cinema or would you like to use the system for music too? Does multiroom audio or video appeal?

2. Tell us what you like to watch. Live television? Recordings? Streamed TV, like Netflix? Blu-rays? Video games? This makes a big difference, and knowing your preferences helps us tailor a demo to suit you. 3. While you’re in the room, have a think about the physical set-up. Does the screen belong on the wall or on a stand? Do you want it flush against the wall or will you need to move or angle it?

Richer Sounds would like to extend a special thanks to: Caramel Quin gadgetgirl.co.uk

Tom Griff‌iths tomgriff‌ithsphotos.com

Elle Media Group ellemediagroup.co.uk

Shane’s on Canalside shanesoncanalside.com

richersounds.com

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Store f‌inder

Our stores All our stores are open 7 days a week, but individual opening hours do vary so please call or visit our website at richersounds.com to ensure you don’t make a wasted journey. We know how important it is to speak to our customers, so to give you the best service possible our in-store experts will be answering the phones,

London Bromley 48 East St, BR1 1QW 0333 900 0051 Chelsea 258 Fulham Rd, SW10 9EL 0333 900 0027 Chiswick 482 Chiswick High Rd, W4 5TT 0333 900 0055 City 44 Artillery Lane, E1 7LS 0333 900 0045 Croydon 109 South End, CR0 1BG 0333 900 0033 Holborn 29 Bloomsbury Way, WC1A 2SL 0333 900 0028 Kingston 72A Richmond Rd, KT2 5EL 0333 900 0040 London Bridge 100 Tooley Street, SE1 2TH 0333 900 0021 Southgate 157-159 High St, N14 6BP 0333 900 0085 Swiss Cottage 25 Northways Parade, NW3 5DN 0333 900 0031

South East Brighton 54 London Rd, BN1 4JE 0333 900 0039 Eton 40 High St, SL4 6BD 0333 900 0087

irrespective of our opening time, from 9am Monday – Saturday and 11am on Sundays. For our VIP Club members we’re also open 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday (by appointment). Simply sign up in-store or online to receive a fantastic set of privileges.

Guildford 10 London Rd, GU1 2AF 0333 900 0050

Cheltenham 31 High St, GL50 1DX 0333 900 0057

Maidstone 17 Earl St, ME14 1PL 0333 900 0062

Exeter 89-91 Sidwell St, EX4 6PH 0333 900 0061

Oxford 1 West Way, Botley Rd, OX2 0JB 0333 900 0052

Plymouth 87-89 Exeter St, PL4 0AH 0333 900 0047

Reading 118A Oxford Rd, RG1 7NL 0333 900 0044

Midlands & East Anglia

 eigate R 51 Bell St, RH2 7AQ 0333 900 0081 Romford 73 Main Rd, Gidea Park, RM2 5EL 0333 900 0041 Southampton 77 London Rd, SO15 2AA 0333 900 0036 Tunbridge Wells 18 St. John’s Rd, TN4 9NT 0333 900 0082  atford W 117c St. Albans Rd, WD17 1RD 0333 900 0037 Weybridge 64 Church St, KT13 8DL 0333 900 0083

South West Bath 4A York Place, London Rd, BA1 6AE 0333 900 0088 Bournemouth 545 Christchurch Rd, BH1 4AH 0333 900 0058 Bristol 143 Whiteladies Rd, BS8 2QB 0333 900 0024

Birmingham 10-12 Smallbrook Queensway, B5 4EN 0333 900 0023 Cambridge 56-60 Hills Rd, CB2 1LA 0333 900 0053 Hanley 2 Providence Square, ST1 2LQ 0333 900 0060 Leicester 163 London Rd, LE2 1EG 0333 900 0043 Lichf‌ield 46 Birmingham Rd, WS13 6GF 0333 900 0089 Milton Keynes 556 Elder House, Eldergate, MK9 1LR 0333 900 0054 Norwich 21 St. Giles St, NR2 1JL 0333 900 0046 Nottingham 108 Mansf‌ield Road, NG1 3HD 0333 900 0035 Solihull 9 Station Rd, B91 3TG 0333 900 0090

All our stores include Experience Rooms where you can try potential purchases in a comfortable setting that’s as close to a home layout as possible. Every store also offers a free, no-obligation on-site survey at your home or place of work within 10 miles, negotiable at the manager’s discretion.

The North

Scotland

Chester 15 Hoole Rd, CH2 3NH 0333 900 0063

Edinburgh 1B Chambers St, EH1 1HR 0333 900 0026

Hull 88-90 Prospect St, HU1 3RT 0333 900 0059

Glasgow 57 Jamaica St, G1 4NN 0333 900 0038

Leeds 74 New Briggate, LS1 6NU 0333 900 0025

Wales

Liverpool 1-5 Berry St, L1 9DF 0333 900 0030 Manchester 268 Deansgate, M3 4JB 0333 900 0086 Middlesbrough 63-65 Borough Rd, TS1 3AA 0333 900 0096 Newcastle 94-96 Clayton St, NE1 5PG 0333 900 0032  reston P 10 Church St, PR1 3BQ 0333 900 0080 Prestwich 415-419 Bury New Rd, M25 1AA 0333 900 0042 Sheff‌ield 130 Whitham Rd, Broomhill, S10 2SR 0333 900 0034 Stockport 58 Lower Hillgate, SK1 3AL 0333 900 0022 York 12 St. Sampson’s Sq, YO1 8RN 0333 900 0084

Cardiff 106 Cowbridge Rd East, CF11 9DX 0333 900 0029

Northern Ireland Belfast 7 Smithf‌ield Sq North, BT1 1FN 0333 900 0070

Other departments Telesales: 0333 900 0093 Buy by phone from our UK-based team. Business to Business: 0333 900 0066 corporatesales@ richersounds.com B2B and Public Sector enquiries of all kinds welcome. Customer Care 0333 900 0094 customerservices@ richersounds.com Call for any customer service issues.

We can deliver your purchase the same day from our stores. Available in-store or by phone, subject to stock availablility. Please ask for more details.

Our numbers are not premium rate, normal network rates apply. Information correct at the time of going to press, all trademarks are acknowledged, E&OE.

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The Frame

Beauty & Brains

Rubber Plant 02, Kristi Jackson, Minted.

Beautiful design that you can personalise with Art Mode and features QLED technology, with over one billion shades of colour for immersive TV viewing.

Make a statement with our new Frame TV.

You’ve seen it, but not like this Every detail of every moment you watch is remastered into glorious QLED 8K picture quality.

Sound & Vision Brand of the Year, June 2019

“The combination of an 8K resolution with stunning brightness, contrast and colour adds up to the best kingsized TV pictures we’ve ever seen.”†

“The Samsung Q950 is easily the best HDR TV to date.”*

“Detail levels are amazing. The extra subtlety in colour blends and shades is so extreme that you feel like you’re looking at the real world rather than a TV screen.”△

†Applies to the QE82Q950R only (April, 2019). *Applies to the QE75Q950R only (June, 2019). △Applies to the Q950R only (March, 2019). From the Forbes Contributor Network and not necessarily the opinion of Forbes Media LLC. ©2019, Forbes Media LLC. Used with Permission.