Top Audio Accessories 2025: What Hi-Fi? Award Winners Revealed

Unlock your audio system's true potential with the best audio accessories of 2025 chosen for outstanding sound and performance.

Elevating Your Sound: The Importance of Quality Audio Accessories

When it comes to audio, the devil is truly in the details. The right accessories aren’t just add-ons—they’re the secret sauce that unlocks your system’s full sonic potential. Having spent countless hours listening and comparing, the expert panel behind the 2025 What Hi-Fi? Awards has handpicked the finest audio accessories that stand head and shoulders above the rest. Whether it’s cartridges, phono stages, or cables, every winner has been rigorously tested against top contenders, ensuring only the creme de la creme make the cut.

Best Cartridge Over $650

Ortofon MC X30

At this price point, the Ortofon MC X30 cartridge is practically unrivaled. Its precision and clarity deliver a listening experience that makes you rediscover your favorite vinyl all over again. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or dipping your toes into high-end analog, this cartridge is a stellar investment.

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Best Phono Stage Under $520

Rega Fono MM Mk5

The Rega Fono MM Mk5 phono stage continues to impress with its quick, punchy sound that remains tough to beat in its class. It brings energy and precision to your vinyl playback, making it a clear winner year after year.

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Best Phono Stage Between $520 and $1,300

Graham Slee Reflex M

Minimalist in design but exceptional in sonic talent, the Graham Slee Reflex M phono stage delivers a refined and elegant audio performance. Its ability to bring out subtle details while maintaining musicality earns it a well-deserved spot among the top contenders.

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Best Phono Stage Over $1,300

Vertere Phono-1 MkII L

With star-quality dynamics and rhythm, the Vertere Phono-1 MkII L phono stage dominates the high-end phono stage category. Its mastery in delivering drive and timing precision pushes it ahead of its rivals and secures its spot as a leader.

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Best Speaker Cable

Chord Company RumourX (2022)

Offering excellent sound at a competitive price, the Chord Company RumourX speaker cable adds another prestigious What Hi-Fi? award to its collection. It’s the kind of cable that effortlessly brings your speakers to life, enhancing clarity and detail.

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Best Analog Interconnect Cable Under $130

Chord Company C-line

The Chord Company C-line analog cable remains the standout cable in its price bracket. Known for its reliable performance and solid build, it consistently delivers clear and balanced audio transmission without breaking the bank.

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Best Analog Interconnect Cable Over $130

Chord Company ClearwayX ARAY Analogue RCA

This premium cable excels in delivering superior control, drive, and detail to your system. The Chord Company ClearwayX ARAY Analogue RCA cable maintains its top spot year after year because it truly elevates the audio experience to new heights.

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Best Cartridge Under $130

Goldring E3

A fantastic and affordable all-rounder, the Goldring E3 cartridge continues to capture hearts and ears alike. It strikes the perfect balance of quality and value, making it an easy pick for many vinyl lovers.

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Best Cartridge Between $130 and $320

Sumiko Rainier

Balanced and engaging, the Sumiko Rainier cartridge offers a full-bodied sound that’s both exciting and detailed. It’s yet another What Hi-Fi? award winner that brings exceptional performance to an accessible price point.

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Best Cartridge Between $320 and $650

Nagaoka MP-200

Boasting superb all-around sound, the Nagaoka MP-200 cartridge secures yet another win with its warm, natural tone and musicality. Whether you’re upgrading or starting fresh, this cartridge delivers top-tier quality without compromise.

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The Final Spin

The 2025 lineup of What Hi-Fi? audio accessory winners is a testament to how every component plays a crucial role in crafting a sublime listening journey. From cartridges to cables and phono stages, these champions bring out the best in your audio gear, ensuring your music sounds as intended—alive, detailed, and emotive.

As any vinyl enthusiast knows, it’s these subtle yet powerful upgrades that transform good sound into unforgettable sessions. So, which of these gems will find a place in your setup? Share your thoughts and favorite picks!

FAQ

• How do audio accessories improve my listening experience?
  Accessories like cartridges, phono stages, and cables can dramatically enhance sound clarity, detail, and dynamics by optimizing signal transfer and reducing noise.
• Are expensive cartridges always better than budget ones?
  Not always. While higher-priced cartridges often offer advanced materials and engineering, some budget models, like the Goldring E3, provide excellent performance for their price.
• What should I consider when choosing a phono stage?
  Look for compatibility with your cartridge type, noise levels, and the ability to bring out detail and musicality suited to your listening preferences.
• Do cables really make a difference in audio systems?
  Yes, quality cables can improve signal integrity, resulting in clearer sound, improved dynamics, and better overall system performance.
• Can these accessories be used with digital audio systems?
  Most of these accessories are designed for analog systems, especially vinyl setups, but some cables and components may also support digital connections depending on their specifications.

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