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
- Exceptionally quiet operation with no audible self-noise
- Delivers powerful and dynamic sound with speed and detail
- Has the ability to take control and deliver nuanced performance from difficult loudspeakers
- Possesses great slam, and the contrast between loud and soft was greater
- Has enough guts and power to kneecap almost any loudspeaker
- Supplied Apple remote is not commensurate with the amplifier's price
Product Considerations
- Lacks balanced XLR inputs
- It sent loud pop sound into speakers when inputs were switched or it was powered off
- A bare amplifier—with no DAC, phono, headphone amp, streaming, or DSP—makes it quite expensive
- Break-in is imperative on most gear, very much so on the I-280, as initially, it was shy, harsh and a little anemic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Aavik's bass was more authoritative, visceral, and speedier, whereas instrumental and vocal outlines it rendered a touch sharper, thinner and more precise
- The Aavik's sound was definitely bigger and more dynamic than the Luxman's
- Has more control, more detail
Takeaway: The Aavik I-280 is an excellent amplifier that delivers a highly detailed and nuanced performance with power and control. It is silent, quick to react and cool to the touch even after a hard drive.
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.
See all the brand's products
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
I-280
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No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
The Aavik I-280 integrated amplifier is providing an unbelievable almost limitless soundstage and with plenty of power ressources. The performer is very much present in the room.
Manufacturer Specs
- Line inputs: 5 single ended – RCA
- Gain Line 1-4: 5-15dB; max input 4,5V RMS
- Gain Line 5: 1-11dB; max input 6,5V RMS
- Input impedance: 10Kohm
- Pre out: 1 single ended – RCA
- Max output: 7,5Vms
- Distortion, line stage: <0,005% (THD at 1kHz, 1V input)
- Output impedance: 50 ohm
- Volume Control: 76 dB – 1dB steps
- Output: 2×300 w, 8 ohm, 2 x 600 w, 4 ohm
- Distortion (THD+N): <0,006% (1-100W, 1 kHz, 8 ohm)
- IMD: <0,002% (1-100W, 4 ohm)
- TIM: <0,008% (1-100W, 4 ohm)
- Power consumption Standby: <0.5W
- Power consumption Idle: <50W
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 400 x 384 x 102 mm (15 3/4 x 15 1/8 x 4 1/64 inch)
- Weight: 9.0 kg (19 lbs)
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Average Price
$500
Used Products
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Brand Popularity
115
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Badges
Top 50 Brand
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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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Aavik
What if you spend a bit more?
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
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 our
Mojo 2
page
Product Page
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
Reviews
iFi
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Visit our
xDSD Gryphon
page
Product Page
Powernode
949
949
/
17
Reviews
Bluesound
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive “just add speakers” hi-res sound system for modern music lovers. The compact minimalist exterior disguises 2 x 80 watts of award-winning HiFi amplification, a premium hi-res DAC design, and access to all the music ever recorded with a tap in our BluOS Controller app for smart devices and laptops.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Powernode
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Product Page
S17 Pro
699
699
/
9
Reviews
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aune
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
- Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
- Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
- Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
- Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.
Product Considerations
- Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
- High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
- The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
- The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
- Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
- Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
- Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
- Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.
Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Visit our
S17 Pro
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
iFi
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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GO blu
Page
Product Page
K5 Pro
79
/
Released
2022
Fosi
The K5 Pro features a high-performance audio circuit by Fosi Audio, offering USB C, optical, and coaxial inputs for seamless digital audio connection. Compatible with PS5, computers, and more.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good build quality for the price, with an all-metal chassis and tight inputs
- Versatile, with multiple connection options: USB Type-C, optical, coaxial, and RCA outputs
- Offers bass and treble controls to adjust the sound to the listener's liking
- Decent power output for most headphones, especially within the 32-250 Ohm range
- Great value for the price, especially considering its features and versatility
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced technical issues with initial units, raising concerns about reliability
- May not provide enough headroom for all headphones, even with efficient ones
- Bass adjustment can muddy the sound if turned up too much
- The internal DAC is considered mediocre by some, not very resolving
- There can be a slight noise floor audible with sensitive IEMs
Takeaway: The FIIO K5 is a versatile and affordable device that enhances the audio experience with different headphones and devices. It has multiple inputs and EQ controls, which are beneficial for gamers and music lovers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Visit
K5 Pro
Page
Product Page
SK01
79
/
Released
2023
Fosi
The SK01 is a multi-functional audio gear that caters to desktop and portable music playing and tone tuning. The tri-band adjustment allows you to personalize treble, middle, and bass, finding the perfect balance for your preferences.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile as both a headphone amplifier and preamplifier
- Features bass, mid, and treble tone controls for customized sound
- Offers a loudness button to enhance bass and treble at low volumes
- Has a built-in battery for transportable use
- Powerful output to drive various headphones
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for highly sensitive IEMs due to potential hissing at higher volumes
- Size and weight may limit practical portability
- No DAC, relies on external DAC
- Tone controls reduce power output
- The potentiometer is a little bit on the cheaper side, there is a slight bit of channel imbalance when at very low volume
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio SK01 is a versatile and powerful headphone amplifier with tone controls, making it easy to customize audio and drive various headphones, and its battery and preamp functionality are perfect for those seeking a transportable and flexible audio solution
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Visit
SK01
Page
Product Page
AO200 MK II
341
/
Released
2024
SMSL
AO200 MKⅡ Stereo amplifier features a new digital high-power amplifier chip MA5332 from Infineon, Germany, offering higher quality with high efficiency and low power consumption. It uses NJRC's electronic volume control chip NJW1194 from Japan for precise volume control and low distortion.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and transparent sound signature, providing an accurate representation of the source material
- Offers plenty of power for its size, capable of driving even demanding bookshelf speakers without losing composure
- Features built-in EQ presets and bass/treble tone controls for customizing the sound
- Built with high-quality materials, featuring an aluminum alloy chassis that is both durable and lightweight
- Has versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR inputs, RCA inputs, USB input, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Internal DAC and Bluetooth performance are underwhelming compared to the amplifier section
- The stock SBC Bluetooth codec limits wireless audio streaming quality
- EQ settings can be confusing and require some experimentation to dial in a balanced sound
- The volume knob might be slightly wobbly
- The power cord could be too short for some setups and might need to be replaced
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MKII offers nearly double the power output and sounds more dynamic than the SMSL AO200 (original)
- Compared to the Yamaha A-670, the AO200 MKII offers more detail and soundstage, though the Yamaha is warmer and more forgiving
- The AO200 MKII has higher driving power, a more dynamic sound, and lower distortion than the Arylic A50+
- The AO200 MKII offers a more palpable and lifelike sound than the Topping PA5
- The AO200 MKII has better driving power at times, better EQ with no degradation, and is a better value than the Burson Funk
Takeaway: The SMSL AO200 MKII is a compact and powerful stereo amplifier with a neutral sound, making it a solid option for those who want clean sound, plenty of connectivity options, and customization features. It is a good value that can improve the sound of many speaker setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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AO200 MK II
Page
Product Page
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Visit
G5
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
- Exceptionally quiet operation with no audible self-noise
- Delivers powerful and dynamic sound with speed and detail
- Has the ability to take control and deliver nuanced performance from difficult loudspeakers
- Possesses great slam, and the contrast between loud and soft was greater
- Has enough guts and power to kneecap almost any loudspeaker
- Supplied Apple remote is not commensurate with the amplifier's price
Product Considerations
- Lacks balanced XLR inputs
- It sent loud pop sound into speakers when inputs were switched or it was powered off
- A bare amplifier—with no DAC, phono, headphone amp, streaming, or DSP—makes it quite expensive
- Break-in is imperative on most gear, very much so on the I-280, as initially, it was shy, harsh and a little anemic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Aavik's bass was more authoritative, visceral, and speedier, whereas instrumental and vocal outlines it rendered a touch sharper, thinner and more precise
- The Aavik's sound was definitely bigger and more dynamic than the Luxman's
- Has more control, more detail
Takeaway: The Aavik I-280 is an excellent amplifier that delivers a highly detailed and nuanced performance with power and control. It is silent, quick to react and cool to the touch even after a hard drive.
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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