Audio Analogue Enigma

No mystery here - just great audio.

The first rule of hi-fi states that mini systems belong to the masses and valves are for audiophiles, with one selling thousands of products for tens of pounds and the other tens of products for thousands. Now Audio Analogue has rewritten these rules with a mini system that's powered by valves.

The Enigma features a CD player, 50W-per-channel stereo amplifier and AM/FM tuner in one solid box. Apart from the ugly remote, this is a handsome unit that's sturdier than any other mini system you'll find. However, the real magic lies in the use of valves in the audio circuitry - one of which you can view through a window in the top left-hand corner of the front fascia.

The sonics are just as good as the looks, with the valves providing a warm musical tone that gives Arcam's Solo a run for its money. There's a sense of naturalness to the sound that's normally associated with full-size components, but it can also rock out when called upon.