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Welcome to the December 2026 issue!
There’s this theory currently doing the rounds that the ‘so-called’ cost of living crisis is just that – ‘so called’! It sounds wacko I know, but bear with me because despite the constant arrival of bills bringing on the financial heebie-jeebies, the premise is that it’s all a self-fulfilling prophecy – that the more one bangs on about it, the more folks don’t spend their hard-earned readies, sending productive industries into a downward spiral.

So, in the interest of scientific research, we are taking the view that, yes, you really can afford it. Take this month’s cover star, Wharfedale’s DENTON 1S standmount speakers – high-end performers at £650 a pair. Then there’s a review of OneOdio’s Fusion A70 Gen 2 wired headphones on p59 at £50. Plus it would be remiss of us not to mention the Marantz MODEL 70 integrated amp and its partnering disc spinner, the CD 70, reviewed on p44 and available together for around £1,250. And last, but no means least, the Argon Audio TT Signature turntable on p67 – yours for a mere £1,700.

Looks like you can get your paws on superlative hi-fi without having to remortgage the ranch! Check in with us every month for more high-end affordables. After all, that’s what we’re here for.

Enjoy the issue!