At the end of every year, the editors of Son-Vidéo.com reveal their picks among the most outstanding audio and video equipment. In 2025, I had the chance to test, compare and analyze dozens of devices in real-life conditions, from affordable electronics to the most ambitious references. Hours of critical listening, direct comparisons and technical analysis have enabled me to distinguish the models that really go the extra mile, both musically and technologically, or simply for their excellent value for money. Here is my selection.
EverSolo DMP-A6 Gen 2 network player
The EverSolo DMP-A6 Gen 2 network player once again confirms Eversolo’s ability to impress me year after year. With each generation, the brand manages to make its audio streamers evolve in the right direction: more accomplished, more smooth to use and ever more sophisticated in terms of sound. With the Gen 2, I rediscovered what I liked about the previous generation, with a comprehensive, intuitive device capable of centralizing all digital sources, TV via HDMI eARC, local storage and streaming services in a perfectly mastered interface that can be controlled with the touch of a fingertip. I like EverSolo’s ability to roll out regular software updates, so streamers regularly benefit from new features: microphone-based acoustic calibration, new vu-meters, retro display simulating an audio cassette, etc. It is a real pleasure to discover these features every time the streamer is switched on.
Once again, I was impressed by the player’s precise, dynamic and remarkably balanced sound reproduction. The soundstage is incredibly wide and transparency is exemplary, with very fine detail. What I particularly appreciate about Eversolo is its ability to offer a highly legible and detailed sound, while retaining enough substance and smoothness to be enjoyable for a long time. The EverSolo DMP-A6 Gen 2 naturally finds its place in my 2025 hi-fi selection precisely because of this combination of technology, ergonomics and musicality.
Elipson Planet L Performance speakers
2025 was a pivotal year for French manufacturer Elipson, which renewed many of its speaker ranges. The new generation of Elipson Planet L speakers fits perfectly into this dynamic, and the Performance edition particularly appealed to me. This new generation manages to combine its aesthetic and musical heritage with a clearly audible technical evolution. The famous spherical design, timeless and elegant, remains intact, but gains in modernity with new elegant matte finishes. Inside, everything has been rethought, with a new 6.5″ coaxial driver with a cellulose pulp cone, a treated silk tweeter, with a Neodymium magnet, a new crossover and nearly doubled power handling. All these elements combine to deliver an even more linear, transparent and refined sound reproduction than the previous version.
Sound-wise, I was immediately impresed by the increased refinement. Timbres are more accurate, voices gain presence, the soundstage is more open, and micro-details are clearer without ever detracting from the speaker’s musicality. What I particularly appreciate about this new generation is that Elipson has managed to preserve the sound DNA of the Planet Ls while bringing a new dimension of sophistication to it.
Cayin Jazz 100 tube amp
Already impressed by the Cayin Jazz 80 launched two years ago, I was looking forward to the new incarnation of the range, and the Cayin Jazz 100 didn’t disappoint. This version takes the original philosophy even further: 805A tubes, pure Class A amplification, 2 × 46 watts of power, all in unmistakable vintage style. The two needle VU meters have been retained, giving the unit that endearing retro charm, while also facilitating bias adjustment. A Bluetooth receiver is also included for wireless music, but naturally, I found the amp more appealing in wired mode.
Listening to this amplifier, you’ll be charmed by its rich, smooth and organic reproduction, with a dynamic range that’s rare for a tube model. I particularly appreciated the coherence between power, finesse and texture. Even at moderate volume, the reproduction remains rich and lively, with accurate timbres and harmonious tonal balance.
Tonewinner AD-86D hi-fi amplifier
I’ve been particularly enthusiastic about the Tonewinner brand since its arrival in France for its ability to offer hi-fi and home theater electronics with unbeatable value for money. The Tonewinner AD-86D is no exception, offering a very high power output of 2 × 120W RMS into 8Ω in pure Class A, a feature usually reserved for much more expensive models. Its design makes no concessions, with a huge toroidal power supply, multiple internal isolations and a very high current capacity of 57,400 µF. This package is rounded off by ultra-comprehensive connectivity with RCA, optical, coaxial, HDMI ARC inputs, a 24-bit/192kHz USB DAC, microSD card reader and Bluetooth receiver.
What appeals to me most is the balance between power, dynamics and finesse: firm, well-controlled bass, a rich, textured midrange, detailed highs without harshness, all with remarkable stability, even at high volume. What I like about this amplifier is that it combines the punch and energy of a powerful amp, with the smoothness and musicality you’d expect from a Class A, all without excess, with great control over the entire frequency range. It’s an excellent amplifier capable of powering a pair of bookshelf speakers as well as floorstanding speakers with large woofers.
FiiO M21 DAP
FiiO impressed in all areas in 2025, from portable DACs to headphone amplifiers, headphones and portable audio players. In this sector, the FiiO M21 particularly appealed to me for its balance between sonic performance, versatility and controlled price. In a compact, well-thought-out format, FiiO manages to integrate a quadruple Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC in symmetrical configuration to play high-resolution files up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD256. The headphone output includes a balanced 3.5mm mini-jack and 4.4mm jack, with the possibility of developing up to 950mW per channel.
I particularly appreciated the ability to use this player both on the move and at home, thanks to a desktop mode that transforms it into a living-room DAC/AMP, multiplying its capabilities. The whole thing benefits from a smooth interface based on Android 13, with the option of downloading streaming apps. Listening to it, the FiiO M21 confirms what I expect from a good DAP in 2025: remarkable transparency, excellent dynamics and sufficient amplification power to drive both demanding in-ear monitors and headphones. It’s precisely this overall success, in an accessible and well-designed format, that makes the FiiO M21 one of my favorite portable devices of the year.
Qobuz Connect
Qobuz Connect is without a doubt my favorite tech of the year. This little revolution I’ve been waiting for really changes the way you listen to Hi-Res music. Thanks to this protocol, it is finally possible to enjoy Qobuz high-resolution streaming directly on a multitude of compatible devices, without having to go through the manufacturer’s app. The ecosystem expanded considerably in 2025, with major brands such as Marantz and Denon now supporting Qobuz Connect. A step forward that simplifies the user experience and brings Qobuz even closer to its goal: to bring the best of Hi-Res to as many people as possible.
Here’s a look at my hi-fi favorites of 2025. Need even more inspiration for your Christmas gifts? Explore our vast selection of ideas to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re shopping for a music lover, a passionate film buff or a discerning gamer, you’ll find original suggestions that are sure to please.
