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.
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.
Prestige Series
- Positioning: The entry-level lineup offering high-quality audio performance with accessible designs.
- Description: Delivers impressive sound quality through carefully engineered components. While it provides a solid foundation, it lacks the advanced technologies found in the higher-tier Reference and Signature Series, resulting in comparatively less refined audio reproduction.
Reference Series
- Positioning: Mid-tier products that introduce enhanced features and performance over the Prestige Series.
- Description: Incorporates improved circuit designs and higher-grade materials, offering a more detailed and dynamic listening experience. However, it doesn't include the proprietary Inverted Triode technology present in the Signature Series, which limits its ability to deliver the same level of sonic purity and realism.
Signature Series
- Positioning: High-end products featuring Aries Cerat's proprietary technologies for superior audio fidelity.
- Description: Stands out with the implementation of the unique Inverted Triode technology, providing exceptional linearity and low distortion. This results in a more natural and immersive sound compared to the Reference Series.
Limited Edition Series
- Positioning: The flagship lineup representing the highest level of craftsmanship and audio performance.
- Description: Features top-of-the-line components and exclusive designs, such as the dual-chassis configuration for improved isolation and power supply integrity. This meticulous engineering surpasses the capabilities of the Signature Series, delivering extraordinary soundstage and detail retrieval.
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Read the reviews
Concero 65 (Reference)
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Manufacturer's notes
The Concero 65 Reference is the first model to our 3 level Concero 65 series. Single Ended Triode (SET) amplifiers in our opinion present music in a sonically pure form, with an enormous amount of emotion and timbral accuracy quite unmatched by any other type of amplifier. The presentation is truly special, and for some – once heard, there is no going back. We have invested thousands of hours in the lab developing a comprehensive range of SET amplifiers. The Concero 65 series, with it's sheer power and size, takes SET performance to the highest level possible. These amplifiers are big, bold and very dynamic, with treble details and purity, and a liquid midrange as we would expect from the very best SET designs. In our case, the Concero 65 also has rock solid bass control and bass detail unmatched by any other SET design available today.
Manufacturer Specs
- Output Power: 65W
- Gain: x2.7 (8.5db)
- Noise floor: <90db (Ref) un-weighted
- Tube list: 1 x 814, 2 x 813 (per channel)
- Distortion: -70db H2 @ 1W -50db H2 @10W
- Signal bandwidth: 8Hz-110KHz @80% max power
- Energy storage: 2000j
- Power supply: 1,800VA power transformer
- Inputs: RCA, AC link proprietary input
- Output impedance: User selectable (impedance matching system) 1.6ohm (8ohm setting), 0.8ohm (4ohm), 0.4ohm (2ohm setting)
- Power Consumption: 400W per channel
- Dimensions: 510mm W x 590mm D x 350mm H
- Weight: 95kg per channel
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Average Price
$500
Used Products
3
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
257
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
29
Founded
2010
Our take on the brand
Aries Cerat is a hifi brand known for its use of oversized components and TriodeFet technology, which combines tube and solid-state designs to create a distinctive sound signature. Their products, including the Kassandra DAC and Symphonia horn speakers, are built with massive power handling capabilities and carefully selected drivers to deliver a muscular, dynamic sound that rivals top analogue systems.
Brand Page
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Used
Aries Cerat
What if you spend a bit more?
LA90
799
799
/
9
Reviews
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
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 our
LA90
page
Product Page
LA90 (Discrete)
799
799
/
9
Reviews
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
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 our
LA90 (Discrete)
page
Product Page
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
Visit our
BasX A1
page
Product Page
Starkrimson Mono (Premium)
999
999
/
6
Reviews
Orchard Audio
Introducing the Starkrimson Mono Premium audio power amplifier – where innovation meets audio excellence. Groundbreaking gallium nitride (GaN) technology has been seamlessly integrated into every aspect of this audio masterpiece. GaN’s efficiency and precision redefine expectations, delivering crystal-clear, distortion-free sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this amplifier boasts a sleek and modern design that complements any audio setup. The Starkrimson Mono Premium is not just an amplifier; it’s a statement piece that enhances your listening space with both aesthetics and performance. The Starkrimson Mono Premium amplifier provides an immersive journey into the heart of your favorite music. Elevate your audio experience with the pinnacle of GaN technology – the Starkrimson Mono Premium.
Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A very quiet background allows detailed music to emerge clearly
- Plenty of power (150W into 8 Ohms) exhibits good control, speed and dynamics
- GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology is used for efficient power throughput and performance, which shakes the bad reputation of Class D amps
- A neutral sound signature aims to reproduce the recording accurately
- Compact size allows for flexible placement and short speaker cables
- Balanced XLR cable connections are required, RCA connections need a separate adapter (sold by Orchard Audio)
Product Considerations
- Visually, the amps may not appeal to those seeking 'audiophile eye candy'
- A power cable is not included unless specified
- A power indicator light is absent
- In certain system pairings, the sound can be analytical or bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Starkrimson provides micron-precise separation, while the First Watt F5 thickens things up a touch
- Starkrimson offers more power and benefits from being a monoblock chassis, while the Gold Note IS-10 does not
- Starkrimson offers more power and better control over the bass, as well as speed, compared to the Nakamichi PA-5 Stasis
Takeaway: The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Mono Premium amps deliver power and performance in a small size, and are especially good for audiophiles that seek a neutral sound, lots of detail, and excellent value. These amps could be a great fit for anyone wanting a modern and efficient hifi experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
Visit our
Starkrimson Mono (Premium)
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
TB10D
79
/
Released
2022
Fosi
If you want to play your favorite songs entertainingly, a mini stereo amplifier is the best way to go. Fosi Audio TB10D is an analog input(RCA) Class-D audio amplifier that easy to install to build your home audio sound system. MAX Power Output up to 600Watts. TB10D adopts TI TPA3255 high-performance Class-D power amplifier chip enabling true premium sound quality.
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality for the price, described as clean, crisp, and clear
- Small size, making it suitable for desktop setups or smaller rooms
- Tone controls (bass and treble) allow for sound customization to suit personal preferences or speaker characteristics
- Provides ample power for most bookshelf speakers
- Good value for money
- Only has one RCA input, limiting connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Advertised 300W per channel output is misleading as it requires a more powerful power supply than the one included (32V/5A)
- Some reviewers note the lack of a center detent on the tone control knobs, making it difficult to find the neutral position
- Lacks features like a tone defeat switch or remote control
- Some reviewers pointed out that the status LED is barely visible
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Dayton Audio DTA-100A: More power
- Did not exhibit any unwanted hiss, unlike the JBL 305P MKII which is known for its hissy nature
- Sound quality is similar to Fosi Audio BT30D PRO, and dynamics, but the TB10D has a quieter power brick
- At low volumes, the TB10D is more controlled compared to Arylic A50+, has better impact, and more bass if the EQ wheels are engaged
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio TB10D is a compact and budget-friendly amplifier that delivers impressive sound quality and power for its size, making it great for desktop setups or small spaces. With its tone controls and simple design, it offers a lot of value for beginners and experienced listeners alike.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Visit
TB10D
Page
Product Page
Funk
491
/
Released
2021
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Burson
Hi-Fi companies are spoiling headphone enthusiasts with a wide range of choices, but they often overlook near-field audiophiles who listen to speakers in small studios or from their desktops. Instead, near-field audiophiles are left with subpar Class-D amps or active speakers. Alternatively, they have to settle for larger Class-AB amps that disrupt the aesthetic of their setups. The Burson Funk breaks that rule by offering a combination of exceptional performance and a design that fits seamlessly into any living space.
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, especially in the midrange, leads to vivid and well-formed vocals
- Versatile, it works well with both efficient headphones/IEMs and moderately powered speakers
- Compact design and good build quality, with the chassis acting as a heatsink
- Ability to roll op amps allows users to customize the sound signature
- Ample power for most headphones and nearfield speaker setups
- Only one RCA input, which may be limiting for some users
Product Considerations
- Speaker amplifier power (35-45W) might be insufficient for power-hungry speakers or larger rooms
- The base model op amps are sonically inferior to upgrade options
- Mild turn-off thump present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Funk has a narrower but deeper soundstage with better imaging and layering than the Arylic A08 Pro
- The Funk has superior imaging, but less potential power output depending on the Arylic's power supply than the Arylic A07/A08 Pro
- The Funk is preferred for desktop speaker setups with Vivid opamps when compared to Schiit Aegir
Takeaway: The Burson Funk is a solid choice for people wanting good sound from both their headphones and speakers in a single, convenient unit. The ability to change the sound by swapping op amps is a welcome feature for those who like to tinker and upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
Visit
Funk
Page
Product Page
V3
89
/
Released
Fosi
Fosi Audio V3 Mini Stereo Power Amplifier Integrated quality components and groundbreaking heat dissipation design enable high and stable performance catering to audiophiles' demand. Born for HiFi Enthusiasts Using a minimalist design language, focusing more on enhancing the sound quality and performance of the product, making it the best-sounding power amplifier of Fosi Audio to date.
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Small and compact design makes it suitable for desktop use
- Neutral and uncolored sound signature
- Great build quality for the price
- Replaceable op-amps allow customizing the sound signature
- Some reviewers consider it a 'killer value' and the 'best amp' in the sub-$100 category
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- The 3.5mm pre-out is not controlled by the volume knob
- Bass response can be shallow, and the unit sounds better at higher volumes
- The stated power output of 300W is misleading and requires a separate, more powerful power supply
- Treble may sound thinned out or rolled-off to some listeners
- Lacks a remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SMSL A300: The V3 has a slightly more natural and coherent presentation, while the A300 is livelier in highs
- Vs Topping PA7 Plus: The PA7 Plus sounds cleaner, more revealing, and develops a bigger soundstage
- Vs Fosi Audio TB10D: The V3 sounds cleaner and clearer, with better instrument separation
- Vs AIYIMA A07 PRO: The V3 sounds more natural, smoother, cleaner, leaner
- Vs Fosi Audio BT20A PRO: The V3 has better driving power and lower distortion
- Vs Schiit Rekkr: The V3 has much better low-end and bass response
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio V3 is a compact and affordable amplifier that provides a clean and balanced sound, making it a great choice for desktop setups and those seeking a simple, high-value audio solution. It offers customization options and performs surprisingly well for its price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Visit
V3
Page
Product Page
ZA3
129
/
Released
2023
Fosi
The next generation balanced dual-mode Class-D power amplifier. Fosi Audio's first amplifier supporting both stereo and mono modes.
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great value for the money and an attractive price point
- Balanced input and single-ended RCA input
- Op amps are swappable
- Compact form factor
- Versatile with stereo and mono mode
Product Considerations
- The volume control was found to be touchy by some reviewers
- The included power brick is quite large, almost as big as the unit itself
- The binding posts are small
- The RCA input sounds inferior to the XLR input
- The amplifier does not high pass the mains when a subwoofer is plugged in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3: ZA3 is considered a more mature version with stylistic elements and new features like balanced inputs and mono mode, with a naturalness in the tonal quality
- Vs SMSL AO200 MKII: AO200 MKII delivers better clarity, definition, and resolution of the sound
Takeaway: The ZA3 is a versatile and compact amplifier that offers great value, especially for those starting their audio journey. Its ability to be used in both stereo and mono configurations and the option to upgrade components make it a flexible choice for various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Visit
ZA3
Page
Product Page
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a CNC milled aluminum chassis and durable construction
- Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology by THX, aiming for transparent sound reproduction without coloration
- Relay volume control provides precise channel matching
- Plenty of power to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars
- Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- No pre-amp output
- The notched volume control might not be to everyone's liking
- Gets quite warm during use, especially with the SU-9 DAC stacked on top
- Some reviewers noticed a clicking noise when adjusting the volume
- The three-feet design may not be as stable as a four-feet design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SMSL SP200: Better unit at repelling noise, with a higher signal-to-noise ratio and lower total harmonic distortion—completely solved the SP200's issue with not having a pitch-black background
- Vs. Benchmark HPA4: Very close to the HPA4 in performance, with some minor differences observed only with high-end headphones
Takeaway: The SMSL SH-9 is a well-built and powerful headphone amplifier with a clean, transparent sound. It is a good choice for audiophiles looking for an accurate and detailed listening experience.
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.
Visit
SH-9
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.
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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