HOUCHMAND Audio is a German luxury audio brand dedicated to creating high-fidelity sound systems that seamlessly merge performance, design, and craftsmanship. If all of that sounds like it’s expensive — you would be correct.
First previewed back at Munich High End 2022, the HOUCHMAND M1 System has undergone three years of refinement and engineering to reach production-ready form. The system is designed and handcrafted in Germany as an ultra-high-end audio solution that combines a Monobloc player (not to be confused with a monoblock amplifier) and two active M1 speakers to create a truly immersive, high-fidelity listening experience, and, if desired, the inclusion of an optional subwoofer.
The M1 Speakers
The M1 speakers included in the system have a 3-way active configuration with a coaxial midrange driver and tweeter, designed to deliver clarity, balance, and immersive soundstaging. Built-in room compensation EQ allows the system to adapt acoustically to any living space.
The Monobloc
The HOUCHMAND Monobloc Player is the central component of the M1 system. It integrates digital streaming services with high-end inputs and outputs for additional physical external sources. It connects to the M1 speakers via Purity Path Technology, offering both wired and wireless connectivity and enabling seamless playback from TIDAL, Qobuz, Deezer, and Spotify.
Pro Tip: HOUCHMAND’s use of the term monobloc may be confusing for audiophiles as the term (spelled with a “k” at the end of the word) commonly applies to single channel (mono) power amplifiers, but in the HOUCHMAND’s case, it refers to its central connection and preamp unit and does not include an amplifier section.
Purity Path Technology
HOUCHMAND’s Purity Path Technology, an advanced audio transmission system, is designed to maintain stable signal integrity from source to speaker. Unlike traditional audio setups, where cables, external amplifiers, and connectors can introduce distortion, interference, and loss, Purity Path Technology ensures an untouched, uninterrupted audio signal, eliminating signal degradation
German Craftsmanship
Each HOUCHMAND Audio system is available in 24ct gold, 18ct rose, and gold, platinum, and ruthenium finishes. With customizable RAL and NCS color options, the M1 System seamlessly integrates into luxury interiors with a stylish look.
Specifications
| Houchmand Model | M1 System |
| Product Type | Streaming Music System with Active Speakers |
| Price (without Subwoofer) | £58,995 €58,500 |
| Price (with Subwoofer) | £78,990 (subwoofer price: £19,995, €19,500) |
| Room Compensation EQ | Yes |
| Purity-Path-Technology (custom system) | Yes |
| Bit Rate/Sampling Rate Support | Wired up to 192 kHz/24-bit, Wireless up to 96kHz/24-bit |
| Monobloc Inputs | Digital S/PDIF (Toslink), Digital HDMI ARC Connector |
| Monobloc Outputs | Analogue (RCA), Digital S/PDIF (RCA) |
| Control | App (iOS, Android), Remote Control |
| Additional Sources | USB, SSD |
| Streaming Support | Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, and Spotify |
| Dimensions WDH (Speaker) | 103 x 19 x 25 cm 40.55 x 7.48 x 9.84 in |
| Dimensions WDH (Monobloc Player) | 31,5 x 22,9 x 5,2 cm 12.40 x 9.02 x 2.05 in |
| Weight (Speaker) | 2 x 38.3 kg | 2 x 84.44 lbs. |
| Weight (Monobloc Player) | 11 kg / 24.25 lbs |
| What’s in the Box | System M1 2 x M1 Speaker 1 x Monobloc Player 1 x Remote Control |
| Optional | 1 x S1 Subwoofer – Analog or Digital In (RCA) |
The Bottom Line
The HOUCHMAND M1 System appears to be a curious beast.
On the one hand, it is a stylish audio system that includes a central connection hub (monobloc) that supports both physical and streaming connectivity, a pair of active (powered) speakers, and the option to add a subwoofer.
However, in looking over all the available information about this system, no detailed specs are provided for the speakers (or subwoofer), and no official image seems to be available for the subwoofer. Another curious thing is that it supposedly supports HDMI-ARC, but there is no HDMI connection shown on the monobloc unit unless the images provided are from the M1’s earlier development stage. A companion app is also mentioned, but no details or download links have been provided.
With international pricing starting at €58,500, we’ll have to wait for the HIGH END Show in mid-May to determine if this cost-no-object audio system can deliver on its sky high price.
Price & Availability
Each M1 system is handmade to order. Crafted from 24ct gold, 18ct rose, gold, platinum, and ruthenium.
The HOUCHMAND M1 System and S1 Subwoofer are now available to order, either as a complete system or as individual components, with the following retail prices:
- M1 System (without Subwoofer): £58,995 / €58,500
- M1 System (with Subwoofer): £78,990
- Subwoofer (if purchased separately): £19,995 / €19,500
US Pricing forthcoming. The HOUCHMAND brand is distributed through the Apex Audio Group. Based on current exchanged rates, U.S. pricing could be $64,000 / $85,000 (not confirmed).
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Anton
March 31, 2025 at 11:39 am
Uninspired design with a gauche looking finish.
I’m sure some rapper will buy 3 for their next video.
Ian White
March 31, 2025 at 2:05 pm
Anton,
Only 3? My issue with this system is that it doesn’t deliver very much for that kind of money. Over the weekend, I had only a few hours to edit some of our coverage due to my therapy and I re-read Robert’s (and my own) coverage of the Nagra phono stage. Having actually listened to a system with the Nagra HD Phono (excuse me if I get the model wrong) at a show…it sounded great. But we’re talking about a $300,000 system. It better sound great. Mind-blowing.
I just don’t get spending that kind of money on anything hi-fi related. $87K for a phono stage. That’s a new kitchen and covered outdoor patio with a Braai, 65″ waterproof TV, fireplace, and DALI CI speakers.
IW