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
- High manufacturing quality and attention to detail, reflecting Japanese craftsmanship
- Produces an extremely well-defined and natural soundstage, with precise placement of instruments and voices
- Offers excellent microdynamics and resolution of low-level signals
- Even with only 8W of power, can produce a strong and loud sound, especially when paired with appropriate speakers
Product Considerations
- Bass response may be limited below 40Hz, though this may not be noticeable on high-efficiency speakers
- Midrange can sound slightly thinner compared to other 300B amplifiers
- May require careful matching with a preamplifier to avoid compromising resolution and dynamics, works well without a preamplifier when directly connected to a source
- Changing tubes can alter the sound, and some tubes may result in the amplifier clipping earlier
- Some reviewers express concern over the use of feedback on the newer ATM-300R version
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Trafomatic Audio Experience Two, Art Audio Jota Sentry, and JAG 300B, the ATM-300 sounds more linear and neutral, with the mentioned alternatives being warmer with rounded tops
- Compared to the Luxman M-800A, Luxman handles bass differentiation and control better
- The ATM-300's tonal balance is reminiscent of the Ancient Audio Silver Grand Mono
- Compared to the Shindo Haut-Brion, the ATM-300R offers greater spatial depth and tighter—snappier musical timing, especially on lower-pitched instruments, while Shindo Haut-Brion is superior in the degree of thrust it gave to cellos and double basses
Takeaway: The Air Tight ATM-300 is a meticulously crafted amplifier that excels in soundstage reproduction and detail retrieval making music sound lively. It could be worth buying for those who value precision and clarity in their audio experience.
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.
ATC-3
- Positioning: The entry-level stereo line-control amplifier designed for affordability and ease of use.
- Description: Features a simple SRPP design with a reinforced buffer stage and a quick recovery diode power supply that offers very low noise. Compared to the more advanced ATC-7, it has fewer features and lower output capability, making it best for small rooms and buyers with a tighter budget and basic functionality needs.
ATC-7
- Positioning: The mid-range stereo line-control amplifier focused on precise signal handling.
- Description: Uses dual 12AX7 and 12AU7 valves to deliver precise control, a wide frequency range, and low distortion. Compared to the entry-level ATC-3, it offers enhanced performance and output voltage while leaving the high-powered driver role to the ATM series.
ATM-1S
- Positioning: The stereo power amplifier built to deliver dependable and balanced performance.
- Description: Uses a traditional Mullard phase inversion circuit with 6CA7 valves and robust Hashimoto transformers to achieve 36W per channel with solid headroom. Compared to the flagship mono BLOCK ATM-3211 and the preamp line (ATC-7 and ATC-3), it strikes a balance in cost and power.
ATM-3211
- Positioning: The high-end mono power amplifier engineered for maximum power delivery.
- Description: Uses a five-year developed 211 triode push-pull circuit that produces 120W output with a wide frequency response and premium hand-picked components. Compared to the stereo ATM-1S and the preamp ATC series, it offers higher output power and superior build quality.
Read the reviews
ATM-300
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Manufacturer's notes
Our take on the brand
Used
A&M
What if you spend a bit more?
Air Tight released the original ATM-2 in 1988. This KT-88 based Push-Pull power amplifier received honor of many awards and has became our longest running power amplifier model for over 30 years. Today, we are renovating this celebrated model to redefine KT-88 push-pull amplifier with AirTight`s30 years of technical expertise.
The new ATM-2Plus is a completely new design while keeping the legendary AirTight style & outlooks. All circuity including 1st& 2nd amplification and internal constructions are renovated. Unlike a time when we released the original ATM-2, vintage KT-88 tubes are almost impossible to obtain, and quality of modern tubes are different.
Our focus was to lower plate voltage of the tube while keeping output power for longer tube life as well as stable operation of the amplifier. For the optimum operation point of KT-88/6550 tubes, we incorporated 6CG7/6FQ7 tubes which is more powerful than the original 12AU7 for wider amplitude and lower distortion. AirTight also redesigned Negative Feedback to optimize damping factors to match with today`s speaker.
Output transformer is a major components for Power Amplifier. ATM-2Plus is unsparingly mounting new Tamura`s 100W class large output transformers to allow surplus at lows. For critical power transformer, we decided to custom made hand-winded/paper wrapped transformer made by Japanese craftsman for clearer and bigger sound stage.
Exterior design of ATM-2Plus is adhere to its predecessor, but the new chassis design hides fasteners by using stud boss and ensuring firm frame grounding. Another new features would be fast breaking fuses to protect the amplifier from output tube failures. Keeping traditions, not printed circuit boards are used in ATM-2Plus, and all assemblies and wirings of ATM-2Plus are done by our craftsmen at AirTightfactory in Takatsuki, Osaka.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Played a perfectly balanced and energetic sound, with a beautiful balance between openness and sweetness, energy and relaxation, bandwidth equalization, and saturation
- It shows sound events effortlessly, with the lightness of someone who knows they have the power
- It energizes the listening room in a full, dense, and saturated way, not by playing brightly
- Knobs for adjusting input sensitivity (volume) work separately for the left and right channels
Product Considerations
- All the tubes in this amplifier come from Russia, which is a big problem for manufacturers around the world
- Knobs for adjusting input sensitivity (volume) work separately for the left and right channels, which might be unusual for some users
- The amplifier is heavy, at 32 kilograms in a small body
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Soulution 710: It replaced the Soulution 710 power amplifier in the reference system and played a perfectly balanced sound
- Vs Leben CS-600X (EL34 tubes): It has more power (70W) compared to the Leben CS-600X (32 watts)
- Vs Audio Research or Jadis devices: Unlike a large part of amplifiers featuring EL34 and 300B tubes, it does not warm up the sound as those
Takeaway: The ATM-2 Plus amplifier delivers a natural and well-balanced sound, making it a very pleasant listening experience with excellent design. It effortlessly energizes the listening room and provides a wide and deep soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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
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.
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Powerful, able to drive any speaker at any level with ease
- Delivers a new dimension in realism at any volume level, exposing the timbre of bass instruments unlike ever heard before
- Reveals harmonic quality of instruments and voices
Product Considerations
- Heavy, weighing 140lb (63.5kg), requiring assistance for moving and unboxing
- High running temperature (55-65oC across the chassis) and draws 500W from the wall when idle
- When speaker cables are terminated with spade lugs, caution is advised as the posts are close together
- Output is floating—it should not be connected to any loudspeaker with a grounded 'black' terminal
- BAT components take a long time to "break in" (400-500 hours of use)
Takeaway: The BAT REX 500 is a very powerful amplifier that drives speakers with ease and reveals new levels of realism in familiar recordings. It is a must-audition for those seeking reference-level power amplification.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
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
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
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
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a remarkably smooth, unforced, and natural presentation with a touch of warmth
- Excels in detail retrieval and textured presentation of instruments and vocals, making the music feel alive
- Presents a wide and holographic soundstage, especially when paired with speakers that are already strong in this area
- Demonstrates agility, precision, and clarity, combined with a naturalness that eluded earlier generations of Chord amplifiers
- Scales dynamically and has the ability to punch hard when required
Product Considerations
- Has a minimalist design with just four line-level inputs, lacking features like phono stages, tone controls, headphone outputs, or DAC modules
- Some may find its sonic signature prioritizes articulation over qualities such as richness and authority, potentially sounding thin if partnered poorly
- Balance control has no center indent or marked position
- The polychromatic lighting may be an issue for the color-blind
- Remote operation can be affected by direct sunlight
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivers undeniably elevated sound in all respects, with greater dimensionality and smoother vocals
- Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, the Chord Ultima Integrated offers a weightier and more thunderous delivery, especially in the midrange and vocals, with more inner warmth in tone
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Chord Ultima Integrated provides a more energetic and fun listening experience, with Thor-like bass impact and overall superior dynamics
- Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord Ultima Integrated is warmer, rounder, more powerful, and refined, with a more fluid and emotionally engaging performance
Takeaway: The Chord Ultima Integrated is a unique and well-built amplifier that combines a visually pleasing design with a captivating sound, full of detail and dynamic precision. It brings music to life with an engaging and immersive experience, making it a worthy addition to any audiophile's setup.
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
- High manufacturing quality and attention to detail, reflecting Japanese craftsmanship
- Produces an extremely well-defined and natural soundstage, with precise placement of instruments and voices
- Offers excellent microdynamics and resolution of low-level signals
- Even with only 8W of power, can produce a strong and loud sound, especially when paired with appropriate speakers
Product Considerations
- Bass response may be limited below 40Hz, though this may not be noticeable on high-efficiency speakers
- Midrange can sound slightly thinner compared to other 300B amplifiers
- May require careful matching with a preamplifier to avoid compromising resolution and dynamics, works well without a preamplifier when directly connected to a source
- Changing tubes can alter the sound, and some tubes may result in the amplifier clipping earlier
- Some reviewers express concern over the use of feedback on the newer ATM-300R version
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Trafomatic Audio Experience Two, Art Audio Jota Sentry, and JAG 300B, the ATM-300 sounds more linear and neutral, with the mentioned alternatives being warmer with rounded tops
- Compared to the Luxman M-800A, Luxman handles bass differentiation and control better
- The ATM-300's tonal balance is reminiscent of the Ancient Audio Silver Grand Mono
- Compared to the Shindo Haut-Brion, the ATM-300R offers greater spatial depth and tighter—snappier musical timing, especially on lower-pitched instruments, while Shindo Haut-Brion is superior in the degree of thrust it gave to cellos and double basses
Takeaway: The Air Tight ATM-300 is a meticulously crafted amplifier that excels in soundstage reproduction and detail retrieval making music sound lively. It could be worth buying for those who value precision and clarity in their audio experience.
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