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
- Unprecedented connectivity options
- The 'Hi Bias' operational mode ensures optimal power delivery to a vast range of speakers, enabling the amplifier to drive them with precision and control
- Well-adorned and smart-looking
- Offers customers a viable alternative to the competition with an extensive upgrade path available as the user advances through their range
- Consistently impressed with its ability to render music with exceptional dynamism and nuance
Product Considerations
- Does not match the TADs very well
- The amp runs out of breath in the form of compression and some roughness, especially in the midrange, when paired with some larger speakers or hard to drive monitors
- The phono stage is rather ordinary
Takeaway: The Advance Paris X-i75 is a versatile amplifier with extensive connectivity, and it has a Hi-Bias mode for optimized performance with different speakers. It is a good alternative to the competition and can be a cornerstone for a high-end audio system.
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.
PlayStream A7
- Positioning: The mid-range connected integrated amplifier in the lineup.
- Description: Offers a robust 115W per channel output, making it ideal for audiophiles seeking high-definition sound in a compact form. It stands out with its network capabilities, supporting services like Spotify and Tidal, which are not as extensive in the A12 Classic. This makes it suitable for users who prioritize streaming and digital connectivity in medium-sized rooms.
A12 Classic
- Positioning: The entry-level dual-mono integrated amplifier in the Classic Line.
- Description: Features tube pre-amplification, delivering a warm, musical sound that is less aggressive than the PlayStream A7. It includes a wide array of connections, including HDMI and balanced XLR outputs, which are more comprehensive than those in the MyConnect 250, making it a versatile choice for those with diverse audio sources and a moderate budget.
MyConnect 250
- Positioning: An all-in-one solution in the MyConnect series, designed for users who want a single device for multiple audio functions.
- Description: Features dual toroidal transformers and built-in CD player, offering a unique combination of power and versatility not found in the PlayStream A7. It provides a comprehensive audio system with streaming, radio, and CD capabilities.
X-i1100
- Positioning: The high-end integrated amplifier in the Classic Line, aimed at audiophiles seeking top-tier performance.
- Description: Distinguished by its powerful 220W per channel output and advanced DAC, providing superior sound quality compared to the A12 Classic. Its robust construction and extensive input options serve users with high-end audio setups and a preference for analog and digital sources.
Read the reviews
X-i75
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Manufacturer's notes
- Output Power 8Ω: 2x75W RMS
- Output Power 4Ω: 2x110W RMS
- Bandwidth (-3dB): 10Hz-35kHz
- Tone Control: +/- 10 dB
- Distortion: < 0.1%
- Signal/Noise Ratio: > 90 dB
- Channel Separation: > 70 dB
- Input Impedance: 47KΩ
- Phono Input Impedance: 47KΩ
- Amplifier Input Level: < 300mV
- Phono Input Level MM/MC: 2.5mV
- Mains Voltage: 115-230V
- Max Power Consumption: 300W
- Height: 120 mm
- Width: 430 mm
- Depth: 320 mm
- Net Weight: 8.6 Kg
- CD Input: 1
- Tuner Input: 1
- Auxiliary Input: 4
- Analog RCA Input: 1
- Record Output: 1
- Subwoofer Output: 1
- Optical Input: 1
- USB A Input: 1
- USB B Input: 1
- Speaker Pair Output: 1
- 5V WTX 500 Output: 1
Our take on the brand
Used
Advance Paris
What if you spend a bit more?
Following the success of the A10 Classic , Advance Paris is offering a more powerful version, equipped with more connectors and a dual mono construction for the amplification part.
In the great tradition of Advance Paris of designing products with numerous connections, the A12 Classic is no exception to the rule... From HDMI to Phono (MM/MC), analog RCA to AES-EBU, from USB for computer to multiple optical and coaxial inputs, 2 speaker zones, Bluetooth (optional with X-FTB01 / X-FTB02 ).
Exceptional power and sound quality starts with a good power supply. The A12 Classic will drive any speaker thanks to its 2 toroidal transformers located on each side of the product. With 190 W per channel in class A/B, you can choose any speaker, from bookshelf to large floorstanding.
Even the outputs are well treated with Pre-OUTs in balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connectors. And don't hesitate to connect 2 subwoofers if you wish thanks to its two subwoofer outputs. A real concentrate of technology that doesn't forget the music!
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a warm and balanced sound with plenty of headroom due to its hybrid design (tube preamp and solid-state amplifier)
- Has a huge selection of inputs, both analog and digital, including balanced XLR, AES/EBU, USB, HDMI, and phono, allowing connection to virtually any source component
- Can drive large and power-hungry speakers with ease
- Features gorgeous styling with tube window and large VU meters
- Has dual subwoofer outputs with bass management
Product Considerations
- The remote feels cheap compared to the overall premium build quality
- The digital input dial can be a bit fiddly due to extremely fine detents
- The DAC implementation could be better
- Plastic glossy front can be inconvenient and prone to greasy fingers
- Long power-up time
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Electrocompaniet ECI 6DXII, the Advance Paris A12 Classic comes in at almost exactly half the price, but provides a similar level of detail and has more modern flair with cooler color for the meters
Takeaway: The Advance Paris A12 Classic is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier with a distinctive design and a warm, balanced sound. Its extensive connectivity options and ability to drive a wide range of speakers make it a great choice for any audiophile.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The Advance Paris MyConnect products are made for music enthusiasts who don't want to fill their living room with electronics. There's a lot to say about MyConnect 250's connectivity... From HDMI to Phono (MM/MC), analog RCA to AES-EBU, USB for computer to multiple optical and coaxial inputs, 3 speaker zones, network (Wi-Fi/Ethernet) and Bluetooth (optional with X-FTB01/X-FTB02).
Naturally, it wouldn't be a MyConnect product without a CD player and FM/DAB tuner. Using the Advance PlayStream app (available for iOS and Android devices), you can stream Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Vtuner for Internet radio. MyConnect 250 being Spotify Connect compatible, you can stream music directly from the Spotify app.
Once all this music is inside the MyConnect 250, it's well-treated by the tube preamp before entering the amplification stages. Exceptional power and sound quality starts with good power supply. The MyConnect 250 will control any speaker thanks to its 2 toroidal transformers located on each side of the product. With 190W per channel in class A/B, you can choose any speaker, from bookshelf to large floor-standing. Even the outputs are well-treated with Pre-OUT in balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connectors. And don't hesitate to connect 2 subwoofers if you wish thanks to its two subwoofer outputs. The latest addition to the MyConnect range is a beast of performance!
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- True 'All-In-One' integrated amplifier, containing a tube preamp, solid state power amp, CD player, DAC, MC, and MM Phono stage
- Impressive sound quality for the price
- Built-in CD player is of great quality
- Plenty of power to drive nearly any speaker, delivering up to 280 watts RMS into 4Ω
- Loads of connectivity options for various audio sources
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth is not automatically built-in, and is available as an option
- The screens are on the opposite side of the face than the knob that controls them
- May be more features than some users require
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Michi X5, the My Connect 250 performs on par in terms of outright sound quality, though it doesn't have the same power
- Compared to Marantz SR7009 (as a preamp), the My Connect 250 has better articulation and authority
- Compared to iFi Zen Phono 3, the built-in phono stage is on par for sound quality
- Compared to Rotel CD-11 Tribute, the built-in CD player sounds as good—if not a bit better
- Compared to Marantz's built-in phono stage, the built-in Phono outperforms in pretty much every aspect
Takeaway: The My Connect 250 is a comprehensive system that includes everything needed to enjoy music. With its versatility and high-quality components, it is a great choice for those who want a simple, all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box.
And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Huge and refined sound that is exceptionally talented and flexible
- Well-made and easy to use, with a simple front panel design
- Delivers a good amount of power, able to drive speakers effectively, and has a large soundstage with excellent instrument separation
- Offers exceptional connectivity options, including a plethora of analog and digital inputs
Product Considerations
- Can sound a little gentle or 'soft', especially the phono stage, lacking some bite
- The valve window aesthetics may not appeal to everyone
- Lacks direct input selection, requiring cycling through options
- The remote control doesn't feel quite as premium as the amplifier itself
- Bluetooth connectivity requires a separate module
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Advance Paris A12: The A12 sounds better, is more refined, silkier, sweeter, has more dynamics and seemingly more punch, is a little more spatial and 3D, and has more features
- Vs Electrocompaniet ECI-6DX2: The A12—the A10's slightly fancier brother—offers a somewhat larger soundstage and a more spatial presentation up top, while the Electrocompaniet has solidity of sound and is super refined
- Vs Geshelli Labs J2 AKM4499 version (DAC): The J2 DAC was better than the A10's internal DAC
- Vs Pro-Ject 2 box S2 (phono preamp): The Project phono preamp was a little bit better, with a bigger presentation and more oomph on the bottom end
Takeaway:
The A10 Classic is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier that sounds great and has many connections to use with different audio sources. With its vintage design and VU meters, it also looks amazing, making it a cool addition to any sound setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extensive connectivity options are offered, including digital and analog inputs, HDMI ARC, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi
- Streaming capabilities are available, supporting services like Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, and Tidal, as well as DLNA and Airplay compatibility
- 2x115W per channel at 8Ω is delivered with a High-Bias circuit for Class A-like performance at lower volumes
- A built-in DAB+ and FM tuner is included
- A high-quality phono stage is incorporated that supports moving magnet, moving coil low output and moving coil high output
Product Considerations
- A separate Bluetooth receiver (X-FTB01/X-FTB02) is required for wireless connectivity
- The Advance Playstream app is described as 'rather ordinary' and not fully using the A7's connectivity options
- Some may consider the amplifier to sound a little thin, if there is less meat on the bone, so to speak
Takeaway: The PlayStream A7 is a versatile amplifier with plenty of connectivity options and fine sound, making it a good choice for someone looking for an all-in-one system. It's well-suited for audiophiles who want both modern features and high-quality audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers an impressive 2x80W into 8Ω through its Class AB amplification
- Has a remarkable frequency response of 20Hz to 80kHz, ensuring every nuance of your music is reproduced with stunning accuracy
- Has versatile streaming capabilities (Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, and more)
- Has a high-quality DAC (PCM1796)
- Offers comprehensive connectivity options, including Ethernet, WiFi, digital/analogue inputs, USB, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- May be feature-rich for minimalist users
- Requires quality speakers to reach full potential
Takeaway: The Playstream A5 is a great choice because it blends traditional sound with modern features, and is built with high quality materials. It could be perfect for audiophiles and music lovers who want the best of both digital and analogue sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Incredibly well-appointed product, with the ultimate goal of satisfying the discerning audiophile
- Musically articulate, open, and transparent, with excellent mid-range purity and agile, tight, clean bass along with a smooth treble and excellent sound staging
- Advance Paris PlayStream App is clear, easy to use, and responsive
- Overall sonic signature is neutral and non-fatiguing, which even the most discerning listeners will enjoy
- Long list of connection capabilities: Wired or wireless streaming, digital inputs including USB, analogue inputs, optical and coaxial digital inputs, Phono (MM) input, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth and Airplay
Product Considerations
- Rated at 2x52W/6Ω in Class AB, which may limit speaker pairings
Takeaway: The Advance Paris PlayStream A1 offers phenomenal value for money and is a great choice for a complete home entertainment package. It has all the connectivity one could hope for and excellent sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
- Unprecedented connectivity options
- The 'Hi Bias' operational mode ensures optimal power delivery to a vast range of speakers, enabling the amplifier to drive them with precision and control
- Well-adorned and smart-looking
- Offers customers a viable alternative to the competition with an extensive upgrade path available as the user advances through their range
- Consistently impressed with its ability to render music with exceptional dynamism and nuance
Product Considerations
- Does not match the TADs very well
- The amp runs out of breath in the form of compression and some roughness, especially in the midrange, when paired with some larger speakers or hard to drive monitors
- The phono stage is rather ordinary
Takeaway: The Advance Paris X-i75 is a versatile amplifier with extensive connectivity, and it has a Hi-Bias mode for optimized performance with different speakers. It is a good alternative to the competition and can be a cornerstone for a high-end audio system.
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