Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Potent, solid, and full-sounding, with excellent resolution and a great built-in DAC.
- Considerably smoother and richer, more fluid, organic, and refined than the U-180, with a significantly deeper soundstage and more 3D imaging.
- Adds a welcome amount of treble air and openness, with a considerably more neutral presentation than the other two models, while maintaining warmth and fullness
- All models have a built-in DAC that is of very good quality
- The amplifiers offer multiple connection methods (USB, S/PDIF over BNC) allowing the owner to choose the format that works best in any given situation
Product Considerations
- Can sound a little dull or muted with some speakers and is not the sunniest or emotionally most engaging performer, its darker tonality might cover up the instrument's true tonality
- Stacking the units can affect their sound, with the bottom position making the sound heavier and darker
- The non-metal enclosure may not be ideal
- The U-180 and U-280 have a slightly dark and 'wooden' tonality, which can be a detractor
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The U-280 is smoother, richer, more fluid, organic, refined, and sunnier, with a deeper soundstage and more 3D imaging
- The U-580 adds more treble air and openness, with a more neutral presentation
Takeaway: Aavik amplifiers are potent and full-sounding with a great built-in DAC. The U-280 and U-580 models build upon the strengths of the U-180 with improved refinement and soundstage
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Aavik C-580:
- Positioning: A compact control amplifier offering refined signal management on a more accessible budget.
- Description: Features a straightforward implementation of active Tesla coil technology and basic dither circuitry, ensuring low noise and precise control suitable for modest listening environments. In comparison to the C-880, offers fewer advanced noise reduction features while still delivering solid performance for users with limited functionality needs.
Aavik C-880:
- Positioning: A high-end control amplifier engineered for signal fidelity and advanced noise suppression.
- Description: Incorporates a significantly higher count of active Tesla coils and enhanced analog dither technology for further noise reduction and dynamic musical detail. Compared to the C-580, offers increased performance and control capabilities.
Aavik U-588:
- Positioning: A modern all-in-one unity amplifier that combines streaming, DAC, line stage, and power amplification in a single enclosure.
- Description: Uses the latest Pascal class D (UMAC) technology with lower output impedance and reduced noise, adding digital streaming and connectivity features for versatile use in compact setups. Compared to the traditional 880 series products, offers added functionality and ease of integration.
Aavik P-880:
- Positioning: A standalone power amplifier designed to deliver high current and efficient pure Class A performance.
- Description: Uses a resonant mode power supply and local capacitor banks to achieve lower noise and improved feeding of speakers, which suits environments requiring high peak power and dynamic control. In contrast to the integrated I-880, the P-880 splits the amplification process, offering greater flexibility in system configuration.
Aavik I-880:
- Positioning: The flagship integrated amplifier combining power, control, and cutting-edge noise reduction technologies in one unit.
- Description: Features an extensive suite of innovations including a switchless optical input board, active Tesla coil systems, and a solid copper enclosure that ensure exceptionally low noise and outstanding musical detail, ideal for high-end, room-filling setups. Compared to its segmented counterparts, it delivers the most comprehensive performance and functionality.
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Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Aavik U-180
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Manufacturer's notes
The Aavik U-180 Unity Amplifier is processing the digital signal to a dynamic soundstage with sufficient of power ressources presentinng a live-like performance.
Manufacturer Specs
- Line in Gain Line 1-4: 5-15dB; maximum input 4.5V RMS
- Line in Gain Line 5: 1-11dB; max input 6.5V RMS
- Input impedance: 10K ohm
- Digital inputs: S/P-DIF: 2 x BNC, Optical: 2 x TOSLINK, UAC 2: 1 x USB
- Digital input support: PCM 24-bit 32-192kHz and MQA, USB also supports DSD64/128
- Line out: 1 x RCA
- Max output: 7.5Vrms
- Distortion, line stage: <0.005% (THD at 1kHz, 1V input)
- Output impedance: 50 ohm
- Volume control: 76 dB – 1dB steps
- Output: 2 x 300W 8 ohm, 2 x 600W 4 ohm
- Distortion (THD+N): <0.006% (1-100W, 1kHz, 8 ohm)
- IMD: <0.002% (1-100W, 4 ohm)
- TIM: <0.008% (1-100W, 4 ohm)
- Power consumption Standby: <0.5W
- Power consumption Idle: <65W
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 400 x 384 x 102 mm (14 61/64 x 15 1/8 x 4 1/64 inch)
- Weight: 8.8 kg (19.4 lbs)
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Average Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used Products
11
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
115
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
26
Founded
2015
Our take on the brand
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Brand Page
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Used
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What if you spend a bit more?
I-580
25200
25200
/
3
Reviews
Aavik
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Expansive soundstage with impressive depth and layering, creating a three-dimensional image
- Delivers exceptional clarity, detail, and spatial definition without harshness or fatigue
- Powerful and controlled bass reproduction with inner density, slam, and weight, but without bloat
- Natural sweetness in the Highs and Mids
- Minimal noise floor, aided by noise reduction technologies and resonance control
- Single-ended RCA inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- Lightweight rear connectors
Takeaway:
The Aavik Acoustics I-580 is an unconventional—yet formidable—amplifier that is suitable for any speakers. It delivers great sound and clarity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Visit our
I-580
page
Product Page
Diablo 333
24900
24900
/
9
Reviews
Gryphon
Integrated amplifiers have become the essential audio component, distilling sources, amp, preamp and interconnects into a single chassis. And since 2015, connoisseurs have revered the Gryphon Diablo 300 as the finest integrated amplifier ever produced and a genuine “Object of Desire.” Unanimously praised by critics and with thousands sold, it became High End Audio’s most coveted “Ultra-Luxe” integrated.
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass control, power, speed, and definition provides a bedrock foundation for the music
- Wide and deep soundstage with precise imaging
- Dead-neutral tonal balance with grain-free clarity, effortless speed, and precision
- Life-like dynamic expression and detail resolution, sounding exquisitely lifelike
- Lively, energetic sound combined with pleasing harmonics, warmth, and a kind of lusciousness achieves a nice balance
Product Considerations
- The binding posts are located low on the rear panel, which might be problematic for some installations
- It gets hot, requiring adequate ventilation
- It's a heavy unit, making it difficult to move and set up
- The cost is very high, making it exclusive-level hifi
- The speaker spiked feet can make it difficult to position the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Diablo 300, the Diablo 333 gives more music and musical information, developing the soundstage with harmonic information, knitting all the individual parts together; the music becomes less about individual things and more about the whole
- Strong resemblance to the Apex Commander combination, but at a fraction of the cost
- While the Antileon digs deeper and presents a fuller presentation across the low frequencies, the Diablo 333 slams harder and slightly tighter
Takeaway: The Gryphon Diablo 333 is a powerhouse integrated amplifier that combines exceptional power and control with refined sound and detailed musicality making it one of the very best amplifiers, be it integrated or not. Its versatility and musical soul make it a solid choice for anyone looking for an end-game component.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
Visit our
Diablo 333
page
Product Page
032
25000
25000
/
6
Reviews
Burmester
The 032 Integrated Amplifier offers a wide variety of connectivity that far exceeds the normal range of integrated amplifiers. A PRE OUT output, for example, allows the connection of a separate power amplifier or the central volume control of different listening zones within a multi-room application. With its mighty 650 VA power supply the 032 Integrated Amplifier effortlessly delivers continuous high current in order to perfectly control even large speakers with low impedance and complex loads. Excellent special resolution and musicality are the hallmarks of the 032.
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Music is delivered without perturbation, showcasing a 'grip' on the music
- A beautiful sonic palette is present, with a warm, detailed bass and very smooth, detailed highs
- Understated approach to music replay is pure and precise, without coarseness or grain
- Fabulously well made, with impressive build and finish
- Volume control has a hefty, well-damped but very precise feel to it, and the amplifier's on-board software is quick to respond
Product Considerations
- The headphone output is hidden on the rear panel, making it inconvenient to connect
- Large and heavy (around 40kg), requiring sturdy equipment support and assistance when unpacking
- The combination of heatsinks all-round and reflective chrome front panel may not be to all tastes
- Highly transparent sources and speakers are required to get the best performance
Takeaway: The Burmester 032 integrated amplifier sounds exceptional with refined sound and impressive insight. If the system is talented, this amplifier could be a great match.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
Visit our
032
page
Product Page
Sigsum
20252
20252
/
4
Reviews
Avid Hifi
Driven by sound quality and our uncompromising approach to offer the best in class, the sensational SIGSUM Integrated was conceived.Our single chassis amplifier offers unparalleled performance for those that desire less clutter or with demands on their dwellings.
Musical Obsession
SIGSUM swiftly dispels any preconception that single chassis amplifiers limit performance. Condensing our reference designs into class leading premium products is our forte and its clarity and power will expose a musical revelation.
Lurking behind our trademark embellished front panel we have distilled, condensed and shoe-horned our reference technology into a singular monument to convey true musicality.
awesome
Incorporating our Pulsus phono stage solidifies our vinyl heritage and with a dedicated mains transformer giving independent power to each channel, your favourite records will sound outstandingly realistic.
Independently powering the Pre and dual mono amplifiers is a phenomenally large mains transformer and capacitor reservoir, delivering an unadulterated sound through the worlds best volume control to your ears. Simply Awesome.
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very low noise floor creates a wide open and clear soundstage with excellent space between each musical element
- Delivers subtle intricate details of music, the decays, and the harmonics
- The built-in phono stage—the Pulsus—provides a clear and clean sound, allowing for a more open and see-through soundstage
- The ALPS RK50 volume knob is satisfying to adjust with its stiff—yet smooth—resistance
- The unit is handmade in the UK
Product Considerations
- Limited number of inputs may not be sufficient for all users
- Lacks a remote control, which may be inconvenient for some users
- Awkward access to the underside cartridge adjustment for gain, resistance, and capacitance may be annoying to adjust
- May emphasize upper vocals, which may not be ideal for all types of music, especially at louder volumes
- The mid/upper bass may be a little shy, lacking the solidity, impact, and warmth that some listeners prefer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The NAD M23 has a bolder, stronger, and punchier bass compared to the Sigsum
- The McIntosh sounds more powerful, solid, secure, and full in terms of tone—and bigger overall—compared to the Sigsum
- The Pulsus phono stage sounds clearer and cleaner than the Avid Pellar phono stage, but the Pellar sounds fuller and thicker
Takeaway: The Avid SigSum is a specialized amplifier that is designed for the audiophile who values the preservation of detail, particularly from vinyl playback. It's a great amplifier to highlight the nuances of music, while offering a clean and precise sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Visit our
Sigsum
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Aavik U-280
18000
/
Released
2023
Aavik
The Aavik U-280 Unity amplifier is processing the digital signal to an almost limitless soundstage and with plenty of power resources. The music is presented on a huge black background.
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superb, magnificent, and powerful sound with an enormous soundstage
- Aavik components are known for their noise reduction technology, employing Tesla Coils and analog dithering
- Known for a low noise floor, resulting in more musical detail and razor-sharp transient images
Product Considerations
- One reviewer would like the ability to rename the sources, to match the connected devices
- The U-180 can be a little dull or muted with some speakers, and is not the sunniest or most emotionally engaging performer
- Some reviewers found the Aavik components sound a bit dark
- Class D circuitry is used, however Aavik has developed the UMAC amplifier to avoid some of the shortcomings of switching amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The U-280's internal DAC was not embarrassed by the EMM Labs converter, and produced a fantastic sound, even when streaming a 'CD quality' source
- The U-280 sounds considerably smoother and richer, more fluid, organic, and refined—and it is also markedly sunnier
Takeaway: The Aavik offers a powerful and refined audio experience thanks to its innovative technology. It's a keeper, especially if you like listening to music with great clarity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Visit
Aavik U-280
Page
Product Page
Ultima Integrated
11700
/
Released
2023
Chord Electronics
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics' legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Astonishing agility, precision, and clarity
- Spacious and uncluttered presentation
- Sturdy build
- Combines the precision and speed of older designs, but renders the sound with a naturalness
- Provides plenty of power without compromising on detail or clarity
Product Considerations
- Most rivals are better equipped
- Can sound thin if partnered poorly
- Could deliver stronger dynamic contrasts
- The balance control has no center detent or marked position
- No digital inputs or Wi-Fi
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Mark Levinson's No.5805 or PMC Cor, some may prefer the warmer, fuller presentation of rivals
- Vs Naim Supernait 3, it doesn't track the music's rhythms with the skill of the Naim
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivered undeniably elevated sound in all respects
- Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, midrange, especially with vocals, was more lifelike through the Ultima Integrated—smoother and more liquid
- Clear preference for Chord Ultima, especially the dynamics
- Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord is more natural and closer to the CH Precision system in terms of tonality and neutrality
Takeaway: The Ultima Integrated offers much of the performance of Chord's pre/powers in a neat one-box solution, presenting a refreshingly straightforward product to use. The Chord Ultima Integrated is a thrilling and soothing amplifier capable of weaving a wonderfully spellbinding sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Visit
Ultima Integrated
Page
Product Page
H600
12500
/
Released
2023
Hegel
H600 is our reference integrated amplifier. With its 303 watts in 8 ohms, a damping factor of 4000, and 2 ohms drive capability, this powerhouse of an amplifier can drive any speaker with confidence and ease. The amplifier is a dual mono design, bringing it as close as possible to the performance of two mono amps in a single box. It also boasts a state-of-the-art preamplifier with the extremely precise volume attenuator found in our reference P30A amplifier.
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Dual-mono design delivers 303W per channel into 8 ohms, providing power and control for any speaker
- High damping factor of over 4000 ensures absolute control over speaker drivers, resulting in pristine sound reproduction
- New DAC implementation based on ESS Sabre 9038Q2M chip offers pure audio fidelity without any resampling or upsampling
- Supports streaming via Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and UPnP/DLNA
Product Considerations
- Does not have a phonostage
- Lacks an HDMI jack with ARC
- The supplied RC10 remote is slender with tiny buttons
- Weighs 22kg
- Minimalist design may be a bit bland for some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the H600 delivers more effortless presentation at high output
- Vs McIntosh MA9500, the H600 has bigger sound, is crisper and has higher resolution
Takeaway: The H600 is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier that excels in delivering high-quality audio from both digital and analog sources. Its robust amplification makes it a great choice for audiophiles seeking a simplified yet high-end audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Visit
H600
Page
Product Page
Kula
15055
/
Released
2021
Mola Mola
Imagine a sleek, compact design that oozes class. Imagine an amplifier design that packs enough power to comfortably handle even the most demanding of loudspeakers. Imagine a complex yet agile and easy to use fully transparent line stage. Imagine every possible Phono EQ setting available from the comfort of your listening chair. Imagine a highly acclaimed discrete DAC boasting the best specs and sound around. Imagine, combining all of the above! Reality. Is. Kula!
Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional audio quality from its line inputs, optional streaming DAC, and optional Phono stage
- Stunning transparency, commendable focus, and open and airy sound staging
- Inspired and seamless reproduction—with a spark of life quality
- User-configurable phono stage that competes with pricey dedicated boxes
- The DAC module, based on the Tambaqui, rivals many uber-expensive standalone units
Product Considerations
- The Kula gets quite hot during operation, needing a decent amount of ventilation
- The LEDs are very bright, and there is no way of turning them off
- The remote is borrowed from Apple TV and is not refined enough to give decent control over volume
- There is no coaxial digital input
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Kula sounds a little sweeter than Mola Mola Kaluga mono amplifiers
- The Mola Mola Kula sounded like a sibling to Leben CS600
Takeaway: The Mola Mola Kula is a state-of-the-art, all-in-one amplification solution that brings music to life with transparent and life-sized sound. With optional modules, it becomes a highly versatile and elegant solution for audiophiles who want top performance in a single box.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
Visit
Kula
Page
Product Page
641
10999
/
Released
2023
MOON
A thrilling integrated amplifier and gateway to the North Collection.
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Stunningly handsome design and aesthetics, with a curvaceous chassis and easy-to-read display
- Offers a rare sense of liberation and fluidity, allowing music to flow freely and cleanly
- Delivers a wealth of transient definition, deep and solid bass, heaps of dynamic contrast, and plenty of timbral information
- Capable of driving difficult speaker loads without issue
- Excellent build quality and finish
Product Considerations
- Lacks digital inputs, phono stage, and headphone output
- Only has a single balanced input
- May be considered minimalist in specification by some, especially considering the price
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- It performs better than Moon 600i v2 and 700i v2 amplifiers, apart from ultimate power compared to 700i v2
Takeaway: The Moon 641 is a well-designed, high-performing integrated amplifier that prioritizes sound quality and ease of use. It is a good choice for those who appreciate a refined and engaging listening experience with a focus on analog sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Visit
641
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Potent, solid, and full-sounding, with excellent resolution and a great built-in DAC.
- Considerably smoother and richer, more fluid, organic, and refined than the U-180, with a significantly deeper soundstage and more 3D imaging.
- Adds a welcome amount of treble air and openness, with a considerably more neutral presentation than the other two models, while maintaining warmth and fullness
- All models have a built-in DAC that is of very good quality
- The amplifiers offer multiple connection methods (USB, S/PDIF over BNC) allowing the owner to choose the format that works best in any given situation
Product Considerations
- Can sound a little dull or muted with some speakers and is not the sunniest or emotionally most engaging performer, its darker tonality might cover up the instrument's true tonality
- Stacking the units can affect their sound, with the bottom position making the sound heavier and darker
- The non-metal enclosure may not be ideal
- The U-180 and U-280 have a slightly dark and 'wooden' tonality, which can be a detractor
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The U-280 is smoother, richer, more fluid, organic, refined, and sunnier, with a deeper soundstage and more 3D imaging
- The U-580 adds more treble air and openness, with a more neutral presentation
Takeaway: Aavik amplifiers are potent and full-sounding with a great built-in DAC. The U-280 and U-580 models build upon the strengths of the U-180 with improved refinement and soundstage
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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