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5 Products and Incredible Rooms From AXPONA 2025
1. Perlisten D8is Subwoofer System – Bass Authority is an Understatement
Highlight: World premiere of the new D8is Subwoofer paired with the Perlisten S7t Limited Edition speakers
Subwoofer System: Perlisten D8is
Speakers: Perlisten S7t Limited Edition
Why It Mattered: Authority down to 15Hz—tight and musical. This subwoofer houses eight 8” drivers powered by external 3000-watt amplifiers. The drivers are arranged in stacks of four, one behind the other, in a push-pull configuration. Perlisten states this design results in incredibly low distortion and a remarkably linear frequency response.
I have to say, this sub stuck with me. To say it’s “impressive” doesn’t do it justice—it has me rethinking subwoofer design and what the future might hold. The D8is may very well be a glimpse of that future.
2. Magnepan 1.7x + Rogue Audio – Classic American Synergy
Highlight: Magnepan’s incredible X series was on display using the 1.7x models, paired with Rogue Audio tube power—and it was illuminating!
Speakers: Magnepan 1.7x
Preamp: Rogue Audio RP-3
Amp: Rogue Audio ST-100 Dark
DAC: Benchmark DAC 3B
Cabling: Darwin throughout
Why It Mattered: Open, airy, and emotionally engaging. This room was buzzing all weekend. I spoke to several of our customers, and when I asked which room impressed them the most, the first word out of their mouths was “Magnepan.”
We’re often asked which amplifier to pair with Magnepans—well, here’s your answer. Rogue Audio makes some of our favorite gear on the market, and it pairs fantastically well with Magnepan, complementing each other’s strengths to deliver the gorgeous soundstage, open-air imaging, and fast, detailed delivery that Magnepan is famous for. A fantastic setup at AXPONA 2025 and a clear fan favorite.
3. Innuos Stream 1 + LPS 1 – Digital Done Right
Highlight: Innuos Stream 1 Music Server
Why It Mattered: A master class in digital transparency and flow. This new streamer from Innuos offers a level of upgradability never seen before from the brand. The Stream 1 packs high-performance features into a compact, half-width design, delivering clean, detailed sound through a dedicated CX regulator and flexible output modules. Its performance can be further elevated with the matching LPS 1 power supply upgrade.
4. Soulnote – An Emotional Connection Between You and the Music
Highlight: Soulnote A3 Integrated Amplifier
Speakers: Opera Callas Diva
Integrated Amp: Soulnote A3
DAC: Soulnote D1
Streamer/Bridge: Soulnote Z3
Why It Mattered: Gorgeous tone and dynamics, refined detail. Soulnote is one of those brands that really needs to be experienced. Known in the U.S. for their DACs—particularly the ever-popular D1—they’ve quietly built one of the most impressive integrated amplifiers out there.
This system was a stunner. With the Soulnote D1 DAC paired with the A3 integrated amp, the Opera Callas Divas filled the room with emotion, delivering control, poise, and genuine musicality. The A3 is a sleeper in the integrated world—one that many may have just discovered at AXPONA 2025.
5. Totem – Tribe Tower Thunderbird: Why You May Want to Pick a New Tribe After Hearing These
Highlight: Totem Tribe Thunderbird Speakers
Electronics: Aragon
Why It Mattered: The whole vibe of this room took over your senses the moment you walked in. I had one of those rare “hair standing on the back of your neck” moments.
Even before seeing the beautifully designed Tribe Thunderbirds, the energy of the room told you something special was happening. The speakers delivered articulate, thoughtful, and detailed sound with impactful bass—audio art that commanded the space around it.
Bonus Track: Record Room
On the ground level was an entire hall dedicated to accessories—record cleaners, cables, turntable accessories—and, most importantly, vinyl and tape. From MoFi and Analogue Productions to a massive collection of premium used vinyl, it felt like a candy store for rare pressings.
I was surprised (and delighted) to see how many people walked out with armfuls of freshly pressed reels from Analogue Productions. Honestly, it was the busiest space I saw all weekend. Arm to arm, crate-digging through new and vintage records—that’s our kind of crowd
Closing Thoughts:
AXPONA 2025 was an absolute sensory overload! Whether it was the draw of a favorite song playing in a room or the thrill of seeing gear you never thought you’d witness in person, the show had a bottomless supply of excitement.
It’s impossible to take it all in, let alone see it all. But here, we’ve highlighted a few standout moments. If you ever get the chance to attend, go. Sit in every listening chair you can find. You’ll be in good company, I promise.
Meanwhile, check out the gear we featured—pieces that excite us and offer a window into the future of audio.
See Something You Loved at AXPONA?
Bring that show-stopping sound home. From iconic systems to breakthrough components, we’re always on the hunt for the gear that turns heads—and ears. Check out our ever-changing lineup of certified pre-owned and Fresh Arrivals, many just like the ones featured at AXPONA 2025. Every item is inspected, tested, and backed by our 30-day risk-free return window and 90-day buyer protection warranty. Your next upgrade might already be here—just waiting to be unboxed.